The Daily

Steven Erlanger, the Chief Diplomatic Correspondent for The New York Times and an expert on Middle Eastern relations, discusses Israel's decisive shift in strategy toward Hamas following recent violence. He explores the historical context of Hamas’ evolution from a charitable organization to a militant force. Erlanger details the complexities of urban warfare in densely populated Gaza, emphasizing ethical concerns amidst military operations. He delves into potential consequences for both Israeli and Palestinian communities as Israel aims for Hamas's complete dismantlement.

In this discussion, Adam Liptak, Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, unpacks the Supreme Court's new term, tackling hot-button issues like government power, gun rights, and abortion. He highlights potential shifts in conservative legal strategies and the importance of upcoming cases, like those impacting the administrative state and mifepristone. Liptak also reflects on the ethical scrutiny facing the Court, particularly regarding Justice Thomas, and addresses how these developments may reshape American law and society.

Isabel Kershner, a correspondent in Jerusalem for The New York Times, provides gripping insights into the recent surge of violence between Israel and Hamas. She recounts the dramatic infiltration of Israeli territory and the shocking attack on civilians during a Jewish holiday. Kershner addresses critical intelligence failures that allowed the offensive to unfold and highlights the profound divisions within Israeli society, as well as the ongoing military response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Her analysis sheds light on the broader ramifications for the Middle East.

Explore the surprising world of Dungeons & Dragons on death row, where inmates reclaim agency and foster friendships through fantasy. The story follows Tony Ford, who transitioned from a curious kid to a Dungeon Master behind bars. Learn about the harsh realities of incarceration juxtaposed with the creativity and community formed through role-playing games. Discover how these players navigate their grim circumstances, finding solace and hope in shared narratives that transport them far from their bleak realities.

Tim Burchett, the Republican Representative from Tennessee’s 2nd District, shares his bold decision to vote against House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, revealing the growing rift within the party. He discusses the troubling power dynamics among hard-right members and emphasizes the dire need for fiscal transparency in politics. Burchett expresses frustrations about leadership priorities overshadowing key values, while advocating for greater communication within Congress. His reflections highlight the critical balance between integrity and legislative responsibility in today's political landscape.

Stephanie Nolen, a global health correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the alarming resurgence of malaria and the mosquito’s evolving resistance to treatments. She details how climate change has allowed new, invasive species, like Anopheles stevenzii, to thrive in urban areas of Africa. Nolen emphasizes the economic and health implications for impoverished families and the urgent need for public health systems to adapt. With rising cases in previously safe regions, she calls for relentless efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

Luke Broadwater, Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the historic removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He unpacks the chaos that erupted in Congress, highlighting the deep political divides at play. McCarthy's attempts to prevent a government shutdown by working with Democrats contradicted the hard-right factions, resulting in a leadership crisis. Broadwater also discusses the implications of this unprecedented decision and what it means for the future of the House as it grapples with internal conflicts.

David Yaffe-Bellany, a technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into the explosive trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, once hailed as a crypto savior but now accused of monumental fraud. They discuss the dramatic downfall of FTX and its implications for the crypto world. The podcast highlights courtroom betrayals and the challenging dynamics of defensive strategies. Key evidence, including controversial mismanagement codes, is scrutinized, revealing a scandal that has shaken the cryptocurrency industry to its core.

Karen Weise, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, delves into a groundbreaking antitrust lawsuit against Amazon. She explains why features beloved by consumers, like the 'buy now' button and Prime shipping, may be illegal. The discussion highlights Amazon's market tactics and the implications this has for independent sellers, who struggle under the platform's dominance. Weise also reveals the paradox of how consumer convenience can impact seller challenges, questioning what this means for future shopping habits.

Murong Xuecun, a best-selling Chinese novelist in exile, discusses the harsh realities faced by writers in contemporary China. He shares his experiences of navigating censorship while documenting taboo subjects like corruption and gender roles. The conversation highlights the evolution of Chinese literature against political repression and the internet's impact on self-expression. Murong reveals the challenges of critiquing the government and the resilience required to tell forbidden stories, shedding light on the precarious balance between creativity and control.