The Daily

David M. Halbfinger, Jerusalem bureau chief of The New York Times, dives into the complicated world of Israeli politics, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains popular despite facing serious corruption allegations. Halbfinger discusses how historical events, like the Oslo Accords, have shaped public opinion and the dichotomy of loyalty amidst legal challenges. The role of journalism in ensuring accountability and the implications of U.S. support on Israeli elections also take center stage, revealing the complexities of governance and public sentiment.

Michael S. Schmidt, a reporter for The New York Times specializing in the special counsel investigation, delves into the implications of Robert Mueller's choices surrounding obstruction of justice. He discusses the complexities of passing such decisions to Attorney General Barr and the political influences at play. Schmidt explores the legal ambiguities in Mueller’s report and how they opened doors for further inquiry by lawmakers. His insights reveal the intricate balance between legal accountability and political maneuvering following the investigation.

Maggie Haberman, White House correspondent for the New York Times, teams up with fellow reporter Michael S. Schmidt to dissect the complexities of the Mueller report. They delve into the absence of coordinated collusion with Russia while unraveling a tangled web of obstruction claims. Key figures faced various legal challenges, yet none were charged with conspiracy. The discussion also explores the political fallout and the essential role of journalism in uncovering the truth during this tumultuous period in American politics.

Joining the discussion is Michael S. Schmidt, a New York Times reporter known for his in-depth coverage of the special counsel investigation. He reveals the tense atmosphere within newsrooms as they awaited the Mueller report. The conversation uncovers the uncertainty around the report’s implications for President Trump's associates. Schmidt discusses the attorney general's dilemma in balancing transparency with confidentiality and the potential political fallout from the report’s release, emphasizing the complex relationship between executive power and public accountability.

Jamie Tarabay, a New York Times correspondent based in Australia, discusses New Zealand's remarkable response to the Christchurch mosque attack. She highlights Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's emotional and decisive leadership, enacting significant gun law reforms in just six days. The podcast dives into the contrast between New Zealand’s swift legislative changes and the hesitant debates in other nations, showcasing the urgency for safety and community solidarity in moments of tragedy. Tarabay also reflects on past events in Australia that shaped these responses.

Peter Staley, a longtime AIDS activist and key figure in ACT UP, shares an enlightening discussion on the recent breakthrough in curing H.I.V. He recounts the early stigmas and fears surrounding the epidemic and how activism catalyzed change. Staley emphasizes the importance of resilience and independent journalism in advocating for H.I.V. prevention and treatment. He reflects on the significant advancements in therapy, including a hopeful mention of gene therapy and the ongoing need for accessible treatments like Truvada.

Ernesto Londoño, the Brazil bureau chief for The New York Times, shares insights into the rise of Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's far-right president known as the "Trump of the tropics." Londoño discusses Bolsonaro's transition from military paratrooper to political figure, revealing his authoritarian tendencies amid Brazil's democratic journey. The conversation highlights the impact of Brazil’s past corruption scandal on public opinion and how Bolsonaro capitalizes on social media to gain popularity amid political instability and violence.

Journalist Natalie Kitroeff from The New York Times dives into the complex story behind Boeing's 737 Max. She reveals how Boeing aimed to minimize pilot retraining costs during a fierce competition with Airbus, a decision that had dire consequences. The podcast discusses two tragic crashes that raised serious questions about the aircraft's software and pilot training. Kitroeff emphasizes the crucial role of investigative journalism in holding corporations accountable and restoring trust in the aviation industry.

Kevin Roose, a technology writer for The New York Times, explores the shocking mosque attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand. He discusses how the massacre was fueled by online dynamics, including the chilling live-stream of the event. Roose highlights the courage of survivors amid chaos, revealing acts of bravery that emerged from the tragedy. The conversation also dives into the disturbing relationship between PewDiePie and online extremism, examining how social media algorithms can inadvertently promote radical content.

Barry Meier, author of "Pain Killer," is a seasoned New York Times journalist who dives into the dark world of the opioid crisis, focusing on the Sackler family's financial gains from OxyContin. He discusses the shocking indifference exhibited by the Sacklers to the addiction epidemic. Meier reveals how recent documents show their hands-on role in prioritizing profits over public health. He also highlights the essential role of journalism in unveiling corporate deceit, drawing parallels with the tobacco industry's historical denial of harm.