The Daily

Ali Watkins, a crime and law enforcement reporter for The New York Times, delves into the escalating police response to protests against brutality in New York City. She discusses the extreme tactics employed by law enforcement, including batons and tear gas, against largely peaceful demonstrators. Watkins captures the chaos of on-the-ground confrontations, reflecting the deepening divide between the police and protestors. The podcast highlights urgent calls for change and public accountability in the wake of systemic injustices.

Claudia Rankine reflects on the deep emotional toll of violence against Black individuals in America, drawing connections between past tragedies and present realities. The discussions explore the ongoing trauma from white supremacy, emphasizing the importance of mourning in the Black community. Rankine highlights the historical and contemporary fight against racial devaluation, including the role of the Black Lives Matter movement. The episode calls for a national recognition of collective grief and the urgent need for societal change.

Kevin Roose, a tech columnist for the New York Times and host of "Rabbit Hole," takes listeners deep into the life of a QAnon believer who navigates faith and loss amidst online realities. The conversation dives into how personal tragedies, like the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, can lead individuals to conspiracy theories. Roose examines the emotional ties to communities built around misinformation, the manipulative power of social media algorithms, and how these digital echo chambers can profoundly alter perceptions of reality.

Donfard Hubbard, a 44-year-old Minneapolis resident, shares his harrowing experiences with police harassment. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Rashaad Dinkins, an actor and college student, recounts an incident of racial profiling at work that ignited his passion for activism. Together, they reflect on the echoes of systemic racism in their lives, the emotional toll of discrimination, and the unified call for justice sparked by George Floyd's tragic death. Their stories illuminate the urgent need for societal change and the resilience found in community solidarity.

Join Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, as he unpacks the chaotic decisions within the Trump administration during the protests at Lafayette Square. Baker details the tense atmosphere of the White House grappling with military intervention and the fallout from Trump's controversial photo op at St. John's Church. He discusses the ethical implications of using force against protesters and how these events may define the presidency in history. Explore the rift between the president and military leaders amidst the national unrest.

Jacob Frey, the Mayor of Minneapolis, offers insights into leading during the turmoil following George Floyd's death. He discusses the urgent need for police reform in the face of systemic racism and community fallout. Frey reflects on the challenges of balancing public safety and protest dynamics, stressing the importance of healing and accountability. He also touches on the impact of military presence in urban areas, revealing the complexities of governance amidst civil unrest. This conversation sheds light on a city grappling with pain and the quest for change.

Shaila Dewan, a national reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the complexities of police accountability. She sheds light on the troubling history of the officer involved in George Floyd's death and the systemic hurdles that keep problem officers on the force. Dewan discusses the powerful influence of police unions that protect misconduct, while also exploring the legal shields that prevent prosecution. As societal frustration grows, the podcast calls for urgent reforms amidst ongoing civil unrest.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, a prominent staff writer at the New York Times Magazine focusing on racial justice, joins the discussion to explore the national unrest following George Floyd's tragic death. She shares powerful narratives from the protests, highlighting the emotional conflicts between generations advocating for justice. The conversation dives deep into the chaos of the streets, police interactions, and the fight against systemic oppression. Listeners gain insight into the raw emotions and collective demands for change within communities all across the nation.

Kevin Roose, a tech columnist at The New York Times, dives deep into the world of QAnon and its fervent believers. He discusses the eerie intersection of conspiracy and reality, showcasing how these narratives shape individual identities and societal dynamics. Roose examines the impact of social media on the spread of misinformation, revealing chilling family divides fueled by differing beliefs. The podcast also highlights historical conspiracies, emphasizing the real-world consequences of digital echo chambers.

Audra D. S. Burch, a national enterprise correspondent for The New York Times, joins the discussion to provide expert insights on the George Floyd case. She explores the emotional turmoil and the crucial murder charges against Derek Chauvin. Protests erupt in Minneapolis as community anger intensifies. Audra reflects on the historical context of police misconduct and the urgent calls for justice. The podcast also touches on the mixed messages from the White House in response to nationwide unrest, highlighting the complexities of the moment.