The Daily

Luke Broadwater, a Congressional reporter for The New York Times, discusses the drama surrounding the election of House Speaker Mike Johnson after a long leadership void. He reveals the fierce internal strife within the Republican Party, particularly regarding Jim Jordan's candidacy. The dialogue explores how Johnson's conservative views reflect a shift back to rigid party principles. Broadwater also delves into the intricate ties between personal faith and policy, highlighting their influence on congressional actions amid ongoing political turmoil.

Patrick Kingsley, Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times, shares his insights on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He unpacks the hesitation behind Israel’s delayed ground invasion of Gaza, highlighting military strategy and its implications. Kingsley discusses the weight of political decisions and rising public sentiment surrounding potential civilian casualties. The episode also sheds light on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, revealing how international perceptions are shifting and the complexities that lie ahead.

Richard Faussett, a New York Times correspondent focused on the American South, delves into the dramatic turn of events involving Donald Trump's former lawyers. Two of them, Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro, have pled guilty in a Georgia racketeering case and are now cooperating with prosecutors. Faussett discusses the intense pressures leading to these decisions and the implications for Trump's legal battles. He also highlights the turmoil following the 2020 election, including baseless fraud claims and the convoluted paths leading to this pivotal moment.

Jim Tankersley, an economic policy correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the alarming rise of the U.S. federal deficit, now nearing $2 trillion. He discusses how this deficit contradicts the ongoing economic growth, highlighting the negative feedback loop created by rising borrowing costs. Tankersley contrasts Republican and Democratic approaches to managing the deficit and emphasizes the complexities of government budgeting amidst rising interest rates. The conversation offers insight into the challenging choices lawmakers face in addressing these pressing fiscal issues.

Jack Fisk, a legendary production designer known for his immersive and historically accurate set designs in acclaimed films like There Will Be Blood, joins the discussion. He shares insights on crafting authentic cinematic worlds, revealing his meticulous process of building sets from scratch to enhance storytelling. Fisk discusses his collaboration with Martin Scorsese on Killers of the Flower Moon, emphasizing the importance of historical detail and the emotional depth that immersive environments bring to film. Personal anecdotes highlight his creative journey and dedication.

Rachel Goldberg shares her heart-wrenching story as the mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, kidnapped by Hamas. She recounts the chaos of the attack, highlighting the emotional turmoil families face during this crisis. The podcast delves into the desperate search for missing loved ones and the grief that envelops affected families. Rachel emphasizes the human connections formed through shared sorrow and the urgent need for empathy amid the conflict. Her insights provide a poignant look at the personal impact of a complex tragedy.

Edgar Sandoval, a New York Times reporter covering South Texas, joins producer Nina Feldman to discuss the evolving sentiments in Eagle Pass regarding local border security measures. Initially welcoming Governor Abbott's crackdown on migration, the community now expresses regret as strained resources and disillusionment grow. They share personal stories of local residents grappling with the unintended consequences of militarization, environmental degradation, and a feeling of betrayal as the promised security seems elusive amidst rising tensions.

Edward Wong, a diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the complex web of U.S. diplomacy amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. He discusses Biden's struggle to balance support for Israel with addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Wong examines the varied reactions from Arab nations, highlighting the nuanced geopolitical landscape. As tensions rise and protests erupt, he offers insights into the challenges faced by American officials and the potential for broader regional conflict, illustrating the delicate nature of international relations.

Catie Edmondson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times, offers keen insights into the chaotic battle for House Speaker. The discussion highlights the unprecedented leadership vacuum affecting legislative actions at a critical global juncture. Edmondson reveals the contentious rivalry between Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise, illustrating the internal rifts among Republicans. Tactics like grassroots mobilization and social media pressure emerge as Jim Jordan seeks to consolidate his support, raising questions about future dynamics in Congress.

In this gripping discussion, Abdallah Hasaneen, a resident of Rafah, shares his chilling experiences of life under relentless bombardment and the emotional toll it takes on families. Wafa Elsaka, a Palestinian-American who escaped from northern Gaza, recounts her frantic evacuation amidst chaos. Both guests highlight the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, illustrating the severe shortages of food and resources. Their poignant narratives underscore the fear of mass displacement and the desperate longing for peace in the region.