The Daily

Julie Hirschfeld Davis, the Congressional editor of The New York Times, brings her political expertise to the discussion surrounding DACA. She reveals how a key decision by former Acting Secretary Elaine Duke, who resisted pressure to end the program, shapes the legal landscape. The conversation dives into the internal conflicts within the Trump administration and highlights the significant role of independent journalism in the ongoing DACA legal battles. With nearly 700,000 Dreamers' futures hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn't be higher.

In this discussion, Andrew E. Kramer, a seasoned Ukraine correspondent for The New York Times based in Moscow, delves into the crucial nature of military assistance for Ukraine. He highlights how this support is not only vital for Ukraine's fight for independence but also impacts U.S. geopolitical strategies. Kramer unveils the historical context of Ukraine's struggle between Western ties and Russian influence, discussing the implications of aid during the Trump administration and the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian soldiers.

Michael S. Schmidt, a Washington correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on Gordon Sondland's dramatic change in testimony regarding the impeachment investigation. Sondland, initially claiming ignorance, now confirms direct pressure from Trump's administration on Ukraine for an inquiry into the Bidens. The discussion dives into Sondland's unique journey from hotelier to ambassador and the political implications of his reversal. Schmidt also highlights the impact of this testimony on ongoing inquiries and the media's role in unveiling the truth.

Aimee Stephens, a trailblazer in transgender rights, shares her poignant journey after being fired for her identity. Her heartfelt letter to her boss highlights the struggles she faced before becoming the lead plaintiff in a groundbreaking Supreme Court case. Adam Liptak, a seasoned Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, offers his keen insights on the legal intricacies at play. Together, they discuss the pivotal interpretation of the Civil Rights Act and the potential impact on employment rights for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the fight for justice and equality.

Jonathan Martin, a National political correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the heated Kentucky governor's race. He discusses how incumbent Matthew G. Bevin's unpopularity forced him to pivot his campaign toward national issues, especially impeachment. Martin shares insights on the fallout from Bevin's inflammatory comments about teachers, revealing community outrage. The dynamics between Bevin and challenger Andrew G. Beshear illustrate how local elections can reflect broader national sentiments, making this race a pivotal moment in political history.

Nate Cohn, domestic correspondent for The Upshot at The New York Times, dives into a major new poll about the 2020 presidential race. He reveals President Trump’s strong competitiveness in key swing states and the challenges Democratic candidates face in regaining white working-class voters. The discussion also highlights how gender bias and perceptions of electability impact candidates, like Elizabeth Warren, while Joe Biden edges ahead in Iowa. Additionally, Cohn shares insights on the contrasting dynamics of polling in states like Iowa and Michigan.

As the Iowa Democratic primary approaches, the competitive dynamics among candidates grow fierce. The recent Liberty and Justice celebration showcased passionate supporters and the historical importance of Iowa. Notable momentum shifts are emerging, with candidates like Pete Buttigieg and Elizabeth Warren gaining traction. Insights reveal a mix of wealthy donors and enthusiastic grassroots supporters at the events. The stakes are high, with ideological battles and urgent public health issues adding weight to the political discourse.

Julie Hirschfeld Davis, Congressional editor for The New York Times, dives into the historic vote that kicked off a public impeachment inquiry against President Trump. She highlights the surprising dissent from two Democratic representatives and the implications of this partisan divide. The discussion covers the procedural fairness of the inquiry and its potential impact on public perception, as Democrats navigate the challenges of maintaining accountability while facing increasing polarization. This significant moment in politics promises to reshape the landscape ahead.

Natalie Kitroeff, a Business reporter for The New York Times, delves into the Boeing 737 Max crashes that claimed 346 lives. She discusses Boeing's internal knowledge of critical safety issues with the MCAS system, revealing that executives were aware of potential dangers before the accidents. The podcast captures the emotional confrontation between victim families and corporate leaders during Senate hearings, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and the role of investigative journalism in uncovering these truths.

Sheila Kaplan, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, delves into the creation and impact of Juul, a modern e-cigarette marketed as a solution for smokers. She discusses Juul's explosive rise fueled by innovative marketing tactics aimed at both smokers and youth. Kaplan reveals the controversial partnership between Juul and Altria, which raised questions about public health commitment. She also highlights the alarming surge in vaping-related illnesses among adolescents, emphasizing the urgent need for regulatory action.