The Daily

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.

Måneskin's electrifying comeback in Rome showcases their unique blend of classic rock and modern pop. The podcast explores how they cater to a generation that perceives rock more as a historical artifact. It dives into the transformation of rock music in the streaming era and navigates the cultural evolution of the genre. Furthermore, it highlights the band's efforts to resonate with both traditional European fans and skeptical American audiences, all while capturing the intricate dynamics of self-expression amidst commercial pressures.

Golan Abitbul, a resident of Kibbutz Be’eri, shares his firsthand experience of a harrowing attack that left his community shattered. He reflects on the close-knit nature of life in the kibbutz and how abruptly a typical day turned into chaos with an unexpected missile strike. Golan recounts his family's fight for survival against armed intruders, revealing the deep emotional scars left by this violence. The conversation delves into the tragic loss of life and the complexity of the resulting political turmoil, painting a vivid picture of resilience amid chaos.

Rebecca Davis O’Brien, a campaign finance reporter for The New York Times, dives into the surprising independent run of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in the 2024 presidential race. She discusses how his shift from a fringe candidate to a significant player threatens the two-party system, attracting disillusioned voters from both sides. O’Brien also highlights Kennedy’s controversial transformation from environmental advocate to vaccine skeptic during the pandemic, and examines the broader implications of his candidacy on American politics.