The Daily

Sharon LaFraniere, an investigative reporter with The New York Times, delves into the unsettling saga of former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Marie Yovanovitch. They discuss the orchestrated campaign to discredit her, led by Rudy Giuliani and associates aiming for personal gain. The podcast reveals how her abrupt ousting reflects broader tensions in U.S. foreign policy and administrative chaos. LaFraniere highlights the importance of independent journalism in uncovering the motives behind political maneuvers and the implications for diplomatic integrity.

Ben Hubbard, the Beirut bureau chief for The New York Times, delves into the complexities surrounding Turkey's invasion of Kurdish areas in Syria. He discusses the precarious position of Kurdish forces, led by General Mazlum Kobani, and their sudden dependence on Russia for support. The podcast explores the historical US-Kurdish alliance, the tragic implications of American troop withdrawal, and the broader ramifications for stability in the Middle East. Hubbard also highlights the intricate dynamics of Kurdish identity and autonomy amidst ongoing ethnic conflicts.

Khalil Gibran Muhammad, a Harvard history professor, teams up with lawyer Alexander Pires, who fought for Black farmers' rights. Together, they uncover the struggles of the Provost family, sugar-cane farmers facing systemic discrimination and financial turmoil. They explore the landmark lawsuit challenging racial biases in agricultural loans, revealing deep emotional ties to the land. The discussion highlights historical injustices while reflecting on the critical importance of community support and the ongoing fight for equity in farming.

In this discussion, Jim Yardley, Europe editor of The New York Times and author of "Brave Dragons," unpacks the fallout from an NBA executive's tweet on Hong Kong protests. He highlights the intricate relationship between American basketball and Chinese culture, marked by figures like Yao Ming. The conversation explores how Western companies navigate political sensitivities in China, emphasizing the NBA's dilemma between profits and humanitarian issues. Yardley offers a fascinating look at the cultural and economic implications of this ongoing saga.

Kate Kelly and Robin Pogrebin, both reporters for The New York Times and co-authors of "The Education of Brett Kavanaugh," join Republican strategist Mike Davis to dissect the tactics of impeachment strategies. They reveal how the White House mirrors past methods used during Kavanaugh's confirmation, including the intriguing 'dead chicken strategy'—a defensive maneuver against slander. The conversation dives deep into the significance of judicial appointments and the cultural battles ignited by these political moves.

Elissa Slotkin, a Congresswoman from Michigan's 8th district and a former CIA analyst, shares her experiences confronting constituents following her support for the impeachment inquiry against President Trump. She navigates town halls filled with mixed reactions, showcasing the complexities of public opinion in a polarized landscape. Slotkin discusses the erosion of trust in government institutions and the emotional stakes for communities reliant on oil and gas. Her reflections highlight the critical role of transparent communication and journalism during politically charged times.

Eric Schmitt, a terrorism and national security expert from The New York Times, discusses the U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria and its implications for Kurdish allies. He highlights how this decision could destabilize the region, allowing Turkey to act against the Kurds, who significantly helped combat ISIS. Schmitt examines the complex dynamics between the U.S., Turkey, and Kurdish forces, emphasizing how the pullback could lead to chaos and renewed threats from ISIS. The conversation uncovers critical geopolitical shifts and the potential fallout from these actions.

Julian E. Barnes, a national security reporter for The New York Times, offers deep insights into the impeachment inquiry's unfolding tale. He discusses the critical testimony from diplomat Kurt Volker and the revelation of text messages that illuminate U.S. diplomatic pressures on Ukraine. The conversation delves into the intricate dynamics of U.S.-Ukraine relations and the pressures faced amid geopolitical tensions. Barnes highlights the ethical dilemmas of conditioning aid on political inquiries, unraveling the complexities of modern diplomacy.

June and Angie Provost share their captivating journey as sugarcane farmers in Louisiana, deeply intertwined with their family's history of enslavement. They discuss the harsh realities of securing crop loans and the emotional toll of their work, reflecting on resilience amid adversity. Their story highlights familial bonds and the painful past of land ownership in America. With echoes of history influencing their lives today, the Provosts paint a vivid picture of connection to the land and the ongoing struggles of black farmers.

Join investigative reporters Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, known for their groundbreaking work on the Harvey Weinstein case, as they delve into the complexities of the #MeToo movement. They discuss the challenges women face when coming forward, particularly Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Kavanaugh confirmation. The conversation highlights the emotional turmoil behind testimonies, societal backlash, and the divided public response to allegations of sexual misconduct. Their insights reveal the enduring impact of these events on discussions of consent and accountability.