The Daily

Stephen Macedo and Frances Lee, political scientists from Princeton and co-authors of "In Covid’s Wake," delve into the contentious legacy of the COVID-19 lockdowns. They challenge the widely accepted narrative of lockdown effectiveness, highlighting the disproportionate toll on essential workers and the economy. Their discussion emphasizes the need for transparency in government actions and critiques the efficacy of lockdown measures. They also touch on the controversial Great Barrington Declaration, advocating for a more balanced response in future pandemics.

Join Luke Broadwater, White House correspondent for The New York Times, as he dives into President Trump’s heated confrontations with the judicial system. They discuss Trump’s call for a federal judge’s impeachment and the implications of a significant deportation case involving Venezuelan migrants. The conversation highlights the administration's controversial immigration policies and their defiance against court orders. Broadwater also considers the erosion of checks and balances, raising concerns about a looming constitutional crisis.

In this engaging discussion, investigative reporter Michael S. Schmidt, known for his insights on the Trump administration, reveals how Trump’s retribution tactics are reshaping the legal landscape. He focuses on the law firm Perkins Coie, detailing its challenges following a controversial executive order aimed at punishing dissenters. The conversation highlights the potential chilling effect on law firms and underscores the implications for the right to a robust defense, raising critical questions about the intersection of politics and the legal profession.

Catie Edmondson and Shane Goldmacher, both respected political reporters for The New York Times, dive into the Democrats' identity crisis in the Trump era. They discuss the fierce backlash against Chuck Schumer's decision to support a Republican spending bill, igniting tensions within the party. The conversation highlights rising frustrations among younger Democrats craving a bolder approach and the political implications of these internal divisions. This heated dialogue reflects a pivotal moment as the party navigates its future direction amid shifting dynamics.

Chuck Schumer, Senate minority leader and author of 'Anti-Semitism in America,' shares insights on the Democratic Party's current challenges. He discusses the backlash from his vote on a Republican spending bill and reflects on the rise of anti-Semitism in the U.S., linking it to personal experiences. Schumer also addresses shifting political allegiances among American Jews, highlighting the complexities of their support for the Democratic Party. Additionally, he navigates the internal turmoil within his party and the implications of potential government shutdowns.

Mark Landler, the London bureau chief of The New York Times, delves into the impacts of the Trump administration's hardline stance on U.S.-European relations. He discusses the fracturing transatlantic alliance and how it reshapes security strategies in Europe. With impending trade wars, Europe is reconsidering its defense commitments versus social welfare. The conversation also touches on how these tensions affect global dynamics, especially amidst the rise of China and ongoing geopolitical issues with Russia.

Matina Stevis-Gridneff, the Canada bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the growing divide between Canada and the U.S. triggered by a trade war. She discusses how this conflict has sparked a surge of national pride among Canadians, reshaping their political landscape and cultural identity. Stevis-Gridneff examines the emotional responses to political betrayals and the shift towards a 'Canada first' approach. The conversation also covers Canada's strategic retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs and hints at a potential pivot towards Europe.

Teddy Rosenbluth, a health reporter at The New York Times, delves into the alarming measles outbreak in Texas, where over 200 have been infected, resulting in tragic fatalities. He highlights the role of declining vaccination rates, particularly in a Mennonite community known for avoiding shots. The conversation addresses the erosion of trust in public health following the COVID pandemic and its impact on vaccination efforts. Rosenbluth stresses the importance of herd immunity while navigating the tension between public health advocacy and personal choice.

Jeffrey Gettleman, an international correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on President Trump's controversial interest in Greenland. He discusses the island's rich resources and strategic value, exploring why Trump sees it as a prize. Gettleman shares insights from his recent trip, highlighting the local population's mixed feelings about American interest and their desire for independence from Denmark. The podcast dives into the complexities of Greenland's geopolitical role and the aspirations of its people amidst shifting global dynamics.

Dana Goldstein, a New York Times reporter specializing in education, discusses President Trump's impending executive order to abolish the U.S. Department of Education. She highlights the contradictory strategy of dismantling while simultaneously utilizing the department to enforce his education agenda. Goldstein explains the department's vital role in equitable education and civil rights, alongside the evolving political landscape impacting educational policy. The conversation also touches on the cultural clashes in education during the COVID pandemic and the implications for vulnerable student populations.