The Daily

Kashmir Hill, a tech reporter for The New York Times, dives into the contentious world of facial recognition technology. She discusses a start-up, Clearview AI, that has amassed a staggering database of over three billion images. Hill unpacks the ethical dilemmas this poses, especially regarding privacy and law enforcement use. Key questions about transparency, corporate ethics, and the implications for personal freedom are explored, painting a vivid picture of a future where privacy might be significantly compromised.

In this engaging discussion, Donna Rotunno, lead defense lawyer for Harvey Weinstein and specialist in defending men accused of sex crimes, shares her insights with Megan Twohey, the investigative reporter who helped expose Weinstein’s alleged abuses. They delve into the intricacies of the legal strategies employed in the trial, the challenges of navigating consent, and the broader implications of the Me Too movement on due process. Rotunno highlights the psychological toll on both the accusers and those accused, providing a complex view of a profoundly impactful case.

Senator Mitt Romney, a Republican known for his distinctive principles, joins Mark Leibovich, a noted political correspondent. They delve into Romney's courageous decision to vote for Trump's conviction during the impeachment trial. The conversation reveals the emotional turmoil he faced as a lone dissenting voice in a polarized party. Additionally, they explore the potential repercussions of his stand against the Republican establishment and the challenges of navigating integrity in contemporary politics.

Maggie Haberman, a seasoned White House correspondent for The New York Times, provides deep insights into the turbulent political landscape surrounding President Trump's third State of the Union address. She discusses how the impending impeachment trial casts a shadow over the event, turning it into a campaign rally instead of a traditional address. The conversation highlights the president's strategic rhetoric, contrasting American values with socialism, and the emotional undertones that made the speech memorable amidst the political drama.

The Iowa caucuses turned into a whirlwind of chaos and confusion, leaving everyone on edge about the final results. With only partial numbers reported, the fallout reveals the implications for the upcoming New Hampshire primary. Public and media reactions paint a vivid picture of uncertainty as candidates grapple with the unexpected delays. It's a critical moment that could reshape the presidential race, showcasing the intensity of political competition.

In this discussion, Alexander Burns, a national politics reporter for The New York Times, unfolds the chaos of the Iowa caucus night. He shares insights on the delays in reporting results caused by a glitchy app, which sparked frustration among candidates and campaign teams. The conversation dives into how voter dynamics shifted, particularly as Bernie Sanders gained traction. With personal anecdotes from the caucus floor, Burns captures the electric atmosphere and highlights the significant impact of these chaotic events on candidates' momentum moving forward.

The podcast dives into the emotional and strategic landscape of the Iowa caucuses as 2020 approaches. Voters express anxiety over choosing a candidate who can defeat Trump, grappling with the delicate balance between personal preference and electability. Conversations reveal the impact of historical primaries, highlighting shifts in voter dynamics and representation. A precinct training event showcases enthusiasm for young, progressive candidates, all while reminding listeners of the complex nature of choosing a leader in turbulent times.

A recent Senate vote on impeachment witnesses showcased a deep divide among Republicans. Despite acknowledging wrongdoing, many chose party loyalty over accountability, hinting at electoral strategies shaping their decisions. The discussion dives into the motivations behind key votes and the potential implications for upcoming elections. Tensions rise as moderate Republicans navigate their precarious positions amidst the impeachment drama.

In this discussion, Dean Baquet, the executive editor of The New York Times, offers an insightful analysis of the media's coverage of the 2016 presidential election. He reflects on the flawed assumptions that shaped narratives around Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump's candidacies. Baquet delves into the impact of Clinton's leaked emails and the ethical quandaries journalists faced. He also highlights how the 2016 election transformed journalism, urging a more nuanced approach in future coverage to better capture diverse voter sentiments.

Javier C. Hernández, a New York Times correspondent in Beijing, takes listeners on a riveting journey through the emergence of the coronavirus in Wuhan. He delves into the origins of the virus at a live animal market and exposes the initial denials from officials regarding its human-to-human transmission. Personal stories reveal the struggle for medical attention amid misinformation, while the urgency of transparency in crisis management is emphasized. The podcast highlights the emotional toll on citizens during a rapid global response to the unfolding health crisis.