The Daily

Benjamin Weiser, an investigative criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, delves into the aftermath of Jeffrey Epstein's death. He discusses how federal prosecutors are shifting their focus to those who enabled Epstein's crimes. The investigation continues despite his passing, sparked by shocking new court documents revealing his extensive illicit activities. Weiser highlights the chaotic conditions of the jail where Epstein died and the implications for ongoing legal actions against his estate, emphasizing the victims' relentless pursuit of justice.

Mikie Sherrill, a moderate Democrat from New Jersey and former Navy helicopter pilot, discusses her strategies for bridging the political divide. Alongside New York Times reporter Kate Zernike, they explore the tension between progressive ideals and moderate approaches within the party. Sherrill emphasizes the importance of community needs, like healthcare and infrastructure, while advocating for bipartisanship. They also delve into the future of the Democratic Party amidst internal ideological struggles, proposing a vision for restoring faith in government and unifying efforts.

Jeffrey Gettleman, the South Asia bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the recent revocation of Kashmir's autonomy by India, a move seen as both administrative and a threat to democracy. He shares gripping accounts from locals facing government clampdowns, including the plight of an activist worried for her detained mother. The discussion examines the rise of nationalism, escalating tensions with Pakistan, and the potential for increased radicalization among the youth in the region. Gettleman's insights shed light on a critical juncture in Kashmir's tumultuous history.

Mitch Smith, a Midwest correspondent for The New York Times, and Michael Crowley, a White House correspondent, delve into the aftermath of devastating mass shootings in Dayton and El Paso. They share poignant community sentiments, highlighting grief and calls for change amid political tensions. The podcast explores how President Trump's divisive language affected the healing process, the complexities of political leadership during crisis, and the mixed reactions from local residents, emphasizing the need for unity in turbulent times.

Rukmini Callimachi, a renowned terrorism correspondent for The New York Times, dives deep into the legacy of Osama bin Laden and the rise of his son, Hamza. She unravels the grooming process Osama undertook to prepare Hamza as a successor within al-Qaeda. The discussion touches on their complex relationship and how Osama's death affected Hamza’s trajectory. Callimachi also examines al-Qaeda's leadership challenges and the broader implications of Hamza's reported demise on the fragmented landscape of extremism.

Fredrick Brennan, founder of 8chan, shares his journey from creating a free speech utopia to becoming its harshest critic. Joined by Kevin Roose, a tech columnist at The New York Times, they explore 8chan's alarming ties to mass shootings and the psychological burden faced by those associated with the site. They discuss the challenges of moderating online platforms and the moral implications of their existence. The conversation delves into extremism, accountability, and the potential emergence of similar forums, making for an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue.

Simon Romero, a national correspondent for The New York Times, provides keen insights on the El Paso shooting, labeled as the deadliest anti-Latino attack in modern American history. He discusses the implications of demographic changes and the motivations behind such acts of violence. Romero also emphasizes the role of independent journalism in holding power accountable. Furthermore, he shares moving narratives from families impacted by the tragedy, reflecting a collective call for change amid the ongoing gun violence crisis.

Reid J. Epstein, a political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the recent changes in Democratic primary debates. He discusses how new qualifications have narrowed the candidate field and the impact of these rules on lesser-known contenders. The conversation touches on the financial hurdles candidates face and how media strategies can make or break their campaigns. Epstein also highlights the tension between local issues and national narratives, emphasizing the evolution of political debates and the implications for democracy.

Ben Casselman, an economy reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on the surprising Federal Reserve interest rate cut amid a booming economy. He explores why the government resorted to measures reminiscent of the 2008 financial crisis, discussing the implications of this move for job markets and manufacturing. The conversation highlights the conflicting signals in the economy, such as low unemployment against trade tensions. Casselman also emphasizes the challenges for lower-income individuals and the uncertainties economists face in predicting future economic conditions.

Alex Burns, a national politics reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into Kamala Harris’s evolving message ahead of her debate appearance. He discusses her pragmatic approach to policy-making, emphasizing relevance over rhetoric. Harris's controversial stance on health care, especially regarding private insurance, is scrutinized. Burns also navigates the complexities of political decisions, illustrating how her strategic choices reflect a broader debate within the Democratic Party, focusing on real-world implications for voters.