The Daily

The podcast delves into the lingering legends of a hidden royal family in Old Delhi. A begum claims royal descent and seeks the return of her family's properties, living in the New Delhi railway station for nearly a decade. Listeners explore the family's mysterious and secluded life in Malchamahal, where intrigue has surrounded their existence for decades. The narrative weaves personal struggles with haunting historical moments, shedding light on the emotional burdens carried by the last remnants of a once-great dynasty.

Kenneth P. Vogel, a reporter for The New York Times’s Washington bureau, dives deep into the Biden-Ukraine narrative. He unpacks the origins of President Trump’s unfounded claims about Ukraine's meddling in the 2016 election. The discussion also covers Joe Biden's controversial actions regarding corruption in Ukraine and his push to oust a prosecutor linked to Burisma, highlighting the intertwining of personal and political motives. Vogel offers insight into the complex dance of diplomacy and media in the backdrop of these allegations.

Scott Shane, a national security reporter for The New York Times, delves into the tangled web of misinformation surrounding Ukraine and the 2016 DNC hack. He discusses how a false narrative implicating Ukraine was nurtured to shield Russian operatives from blame. The conversation reveals how conspiracy theories can pervert political discourse and obscure the truth. Shane also emphasizes the crucial role of journalism in exposing these distortions and holding politicians accountable despite ongoing controversies.

Dave Philipps, a national correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the controversial case of Navy SEAL Chief Eddie Gallagher, accused of war crimes. He discusses the dramatic testimonies that broke military codes of silence and the ensuing battle between President Trump and military leaders. The episode highlights the turbulent relationship between accountability and political influence in the military. Philipps also reflects on the implications of these events on Gallagher’s career and the broader military justice system.

President Trump called into ‘Fox & Friends’ to discuss the ongoing impeachment inquiry, offering insights into his defense strategy. The conversation delves into the allegations of corruption involving Ukraine, unveiling significant figures in the controversy. It also addresses the troubling narrative of foreign interference, revealing claims about Russian fabrications aimed at undermining American democracy. With a House vote on the horizon, the discussion emphasizes the need for political awareness during these turbulent times.

Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend and 2020 presidential contender, shares his journey from a young political enthusiast to an openly gay candidate. He reflects on the complexities of balancing his personal identity with public service and reveals the challenges of running for office in a conservative environment. Buttigieg candidly discusses his coming out during a re-election campaign, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in politics. His experiences illuminate the intersections of ambition, identity, and advocacy amidst societal expectations.

Dive into the tumultuous world of U.S. foreign policy as former adviser Fiona Hill testifies about the contrasting channels of diplomacy during the Trump administration. Unravel the frustrations faced by diplomats navigating the impeachment inquiry and the chaotic clash between established practices and political maneuvering. The discussion also highlights the often-overlooked gender dynamics that shape decision-making in high-stakes environments. It's a riveting journey through bureaucratic hurdles and political drama!

Gordon Sondland, former U.S. ambassador to the EU, shares his transformation from a Trump supporter to a pivotal impeachment witness. Nicholas Fandos, a Congressional reporter, adds depth to the discussion with insights into the impeachment inquiry's complexities. They delve into Sondland's contradictory testimony about military aid to Ukraine and explore the charged atmosphere surrounding high-profile hearings. The pair discuss the importance of journalistic integrity in uncovering political truths, making it a fascinating conversation about power dynamics and accountability.

A U.S. ambassador's explosive testimony implicates top officials, including the president, in a potential quid pro quo with Ukraine. The discussion intensifies around accountability and the ramifications of such claims. The contrast between witness credibility and memory lapses adds further complexity to the impeachment hearings. Analysis reveals how confident delivery can sway perceptions, even without solid evidence, raising intriguing questions about what really drives political narratives.

Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, once a crowd-puller and now struggling in the polls. He discusses her strategic moves in South Carolina, highlighting the significance of engaging Black voters. The conversation navigates the complex interplay of race, gender, and electability, revealing challenges Harris faces as a candidate. Alongside community dynamics, Herndon sheds light on the broader political landscape affecting her campaign.