The Daily

Reid J. Epstein, a New York Times political reporter, dives into the heated Wisconsin Supreme Court race, highlighting how it's transformed into a battle of Elon Musk's financial clout versus liberal activism. Epstein discusses the implications of Musk's substantial investments tied to his companies and legal issues. The conversation also touches on recent Democratic victories in traditionally Republican areas, raising questions about the evolving political landscape and the role of billionaires like Musk in shaping election outcomes. This local election has turned into a symbol of broader national tensions.

Hamed Aleaziz, an immigration policy reporter for The New York Times, discusses alarming immigration arrests happening on college campuses. He highlights the experiences of three Columbia University students facing deportation, revealing how these cases reflect a broader crackdown on dissent and free speech. Aleaziz explains the precarious situation of international students like Ranjani Srinivasan, who risks her visa due to activism. The conversation sheds light on the emotional toll of current immigration policies and their chilling effect on academic freedom.

Helena Yang, an emergency physician and contributor to The New York Times magazine, dives into the pressing issue of mental health among airline pilots. She discusses the harrowing story of pilot Troy Merritt, who felt compelled to hide his depression to keep flying. The conversation highlights the stigma surrounding mental illness in aviation and the potential dangers it poses to flight safety. Yang advocates for policy reforms and improved support systems, underscoring the need for a cultural shift in how the industry addresses mental health challenges.

Megyn Kelly, a former Fox News anchor turned YouTube host, dives into her bold career evolution and the complexities of modern journalism. She reflects on her transformative journey from law to media, sharing insights from her controversial Trump endorsement. Kelly discusses the backlash she faced over cultural commentary, her shift towards a more opinion-driven platform, and the importance of authentic audience connections. She also announces her new venture, MK Media, signaling her commitment to innovating in the world of podcasts.

Maggie Haberman, White House correspondent for The New York Times, joins fellow journalists to dissect the fallout from a Signal text security breach impacting the Trump administration. They discuss the chaotic blame game within Trump's cabinet and the serious risks posed to military operations by leaked messages. Internal conflicts about technology usage arise, highlighting Trump's anxieties over communication methods. The conversation also touches on military personnel's strong reactions to the reckless disclosure of sensitive information and legal implications following a federal judge's ruling.

Julian E. Barnes, a New York Times reporter specializing in U.S. intelligence and security, dives into the complex motivations behind the recent release of JFK assassination documents. He discusses how these revelations could reshape public trust in intelligence agencies and how political dynamics during Trump's presidency complicate the transparency narrative. Barnes also explores the CIA's historical influence and the paradox where attempts at transparency may inadvertently fuel new conspiracy theories, reflecting America’s enduring fascination with such narratives.

Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor in chief at The Atlantic, shares his experience of inadvertently receiving secret U.S. military plans from high-ranking Trump officials via a group chat. He delves into the complexities of political communication and the chaotic dynamics of Washington politics. The conversation reveals the implications for U.S. military strategy in Yemen and the challenges of investigative journalism amidst such security breaches. Goldberg also reflects on the fallout and accountability within government communications following this unexpected leak.

Jim Rutenberg, a writer at large for The New York Times, dives into President Trump's unprecedented tactics against the media. He discusses how Trump's strategies echo Nixon's efforts to control the press and weaken its role in democracy. The conversation also explores the evolution of media dynamics, highlighting the impact of social media and the rise of sensationalism. Rutenberg emphasizes the pressing challenges journalists face in maintaining integrity amid political intimidation and the ongoing battle for authenticity in news.

Alan Blinder, a national correspondent for The New York Times, shares insights on the escalating conflict between the Trump administration and American universities. He discusses how federal scrutiny and funding threats are reshaping higher education, particularly through cases like Columbia University facing potential $400 million cuts. The conversation highlights the strategic responses of institutions under pressure and explores the implications for campus culture and the future of skills-based hiring in a politically charged environment.

Discover the intriguing tale of the Old Leatherman, a mysterious 19th-century wanderer who roamed the backroads of New York and Connecticut. Explore the emotional landscapes of self-discovery through a reflective journey in a historic cemetery. Delve into the duality of the Old Leatherman's legacy, examining how his life encapsulated themes of alienation and societal fascination. Journey with an individual to a cave sanctuary, contrasting tranquility with the chaos of daily life, embodying the quest for solace and introspection.