The Daily

Vice President JD Vance, a political strategist and former author, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Ross Douthat, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times. They discuss Vance's recent meeting with the pope, touching on faith and immigration challenges. The conversation delves into the moral dilemmas of deportation tactics and the intersection of legal frameworks with humanitarian responsibilities. Tensions in U.S. immigration policy, especially regarding public safety and community impacts, are also explored, reflecting the complexities of governance today.

Michael Crowley, a reporter for The New York Times specializing in U.S. foreign policy, discusses President Trump's evolving stance on the Ukraine conflict. He analyzes a recent phone call between Trump and Vladimir Putin, revealing the stark differences in how they approach peace negotiations. Crowley highlights the diplomatic tension that has emerged, especially after Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, and explores the implications of potential shifts in U.S. policy regarding support for Ukraine.

Tyler Pager, a New York Times journalist and co-author on the Biden presidency, joins Reid J. Epstein and Lisa Lerer, also from the Times, to dissect the fallout from revelations about President Biden's health and campaign struggles. They explore the implications of his aggressive cancer diagnosis on public perception and his re-election bid. The discussion highlights generational shifts within the Democratic Party and the tension between Biden’s legacy and voters' trust, all while navigating the impact of controversial audio leaks and internal party conflicts.

John Eligon, the Johannesburg bureau chief for The New York Times, sheds light on President Trump's controversial acceptance of white South African refugees. The conversation explores the historical context of Afrikaners and their legacy from apartheid. Eligon critiques the simplifications in Trump’s rhetoric regarding South African land ownership. The discussion also delves into how these selective immigration policies reflect broader racial dynamics and human rights implications, raising profound questions about national identity and political motivations.

In a heartfelt discussion, Daniel Jones, Editor of the Modern Love column, unpacks the ways we fall in love, weaving in listener stories that capture the magic and unpredictability of romance. Mandy Len Catron, renowned for her essay on the transformative 36 questions, shares insights on how these prompts can deepen relationships. Listeners hear touching anecdotes about love ignited in the simplest moments, and dive into how vulnerability and communication play vital roles in maintaining enduring connections.

Rutger Bregman, a historian and writer known for his thought-provoking views on utopian ideas, challenges elite individuals to abandon self-centered ambitions for morally significant work. He discusses redefining success from wealth to impactful contributions and highlights the need for ambitious activism to address societal issues like the tobacco industry. Bregman emphasizes the importance of moral ambition, collective action, and using one's talents for the greater good, pushing for a cultural shift towards altruism and meaningful change.

Adam Liptak, Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times and Yale Law graduate, dives into the contentious Supreme Court case concerning birthright citizenship. He breaks down the Trump administration's unconventional legal tactics and the implications for presidential power. The discussion reveals tensions between the executive and judiciary, particularly over universal injunctions. Liptak also highlights the potential ramifications for state authority and citizenship verification, raising critical questions about the future of American law.

Meaghan Tobin, a New York Times correspondent covering business and technology in Asia, tackles the evolving landscape of fast fashion. She discusses the impact of the recent closure of a tax loophole that allowed Chinese companies like Shein to ship affordable clothing to the U.S. tax-free. As prices are set to rise, Tobin examines the future of budget-friendly fashion and the implications for workers in garment manufacturing. She highlights Guangzhou's role as a global manufacturing hub and the broader challenges of sustainable fashion practices.

Maggie Haberman, a White House correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the controversial offer of a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar to President Trump. She discusses the ethical implications of accepting such a gift and the expectations it might create. The conversation touches on foreign influence, potential motivations behind Qatar's generosity, and how this could challenge Trump's America First policies. Haberman raises concerns about security risks and the complicated relationship between luxury and presidential duties.

Susan Dominus, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine and author of "The Family Dynamic," dives into the fascinating world of sibling influence. She discusses how siblings significantly shape personal growth and career paths, often more than parents. Through captivating examples like the unique dynamics of the Groff family and the Chen siblings' supportive relationships, Dominus reveals how these bonds can drive success. She also touches on the concept of differentiation, showing how siblings help each other thrive amidst competition.