The Daily

Nate Cohn, Chief Political Analyst for The New York Times, dives into the surprising outcomes of the recent midterm elections. Despite President Biden's unpopularity, Democrats defied expectations, raising questions about voter behavior. Cohn discusses the impact of regional issues like abortion and the peculiar dynamics surrounding Donald Trump's influence on Republican candidates. He highlights key Senate races and how internal rifts within the GOP might shape future elections, revealing the unpredictable nature of contemporary politics.

Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on the unexpected midterm election outcomes. He discusses how the anticipated Republican 'red wave' failed to materialize, citing factors like voter concerns over reproductive rights and a disconnect from Trump among candidates. The episode also highlights the urgency of young voters demanding change and explores how shifts in voter dynamics are shaping the Republican Party's future direction.

In this compelling discussion, Reid J. Epstein, a New York Times reporter specializing in elections, joins former Wisconsin State Senator Kathy Bernier to unpack the state's fraught political landscape. They delve into the GOP's strategies to consolidate power through redistricting and altered voting laws. The talk reveals how recent elections have transformed Wisconsin into a battleground, highlighting voters' struggles against claims of fraud and declining trust in the electoral process. Their insights bring the stakes of the upcoming elections into sharp focus.

Shane Goldmacher, a national political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the Pennsylvania Senate race with John Fetterman as the focal point. They discuss how Democrats can reclaim white working-class voters, a demographic that has significantly shifted to Trump. Fetterman's humorous yet empathetic approach post-stroke is explored, alongside the cultural and economic factors influencing voter allegiance. Insights from local voters reveal a landscape of political disillusionment, challenging the Democratic Party to reconnect with this crucial group.

In this engaging discussion, Nicholas Casey, a writer for the New York Times Magazine, reveals the harrowing and hidden history of Spain's stolen babies during Franco's regime. He shares Ana Belén Pintado's emotional journey to uncover her past, confronting the complexities of identity and family ties. The podcast delves into the dark collaboration between hospitals and the Catholic Church, the shocking uncovering of buried family secrets, and the ongoing fight for acknowledgement and justice by those affected by this tragedy.

Nelson Aquina, an IT project manager from Central Florida, dives deep into his shifting perspectives on the Democratic Party. He discusses the disillusionment felt by young voters and minority groups, reflecting on events like the George Floyd protests. Aquina emphasizes the need for inclusive reform and critiques the party's current focus on identity politics. He highlights the urgency for Democrats to unite under a compelling cause, amidst rising tensions and misinformation, as they navigate an uncertain political climate leading up to the midterms.

Lisa Lerer, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the pivotal role of abortion rights in the upcoming midterms. She explores how Proposition 3 in Michigan could energize voters and reshape Democrat strategies. Lerer discusses the historical context of abortion as a political tool, the impact of rising inflation and low approval ratings, and personal narratives that illustrate how political beliefs evolve amidst sensitive topics like reproductive rights. The stakes are high, with abortion access hanging in the balance for millions.

Adam Liptak, Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, dives into a pivotal case that could reshape affirmative action in universities. The discussion centers on the Supreme Court's consideration of race-conscious admissions at Harvard and UNC, highlighting claims of discrimination against Asian students. Liptak explores the ideological divide among justices and relates this case to historic rulings, emphasizing the broader societal implications of changing diversity policies in education. The stakes are high as the court deliberates the future of equal opportunity.

Catie Edmondson, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, joins to discuss the shocking attack on Paul Pelosi. She examines the chilling details of the break-in and the motivations behind the assailant’s actions. The conversation reveals alarming statistics about the rise in threats against lawmakers, including a tenfold increase in incidents over recent years. Edmondson also delves into the psychological aspects of political extremism and the dangerous spread of online conspiracy theories that fuel such violence.

Kevin Roose, a technology columnist for The New York Times, dives deep into Elon Musk's controversial takeover of Twitter. He examines how the platform transformed from a space for marginalized voices to a potential tool for corporate control. Roose discusses Musk's unique style of engagement and the delicate balance between free speech and profitability. He also reflects on Twitter's pivotal role in global activism, highlighting its historical significance during movements like the Arab Spring and Black Lives Matter.