The Daily

Patricia Mazzei, the Miami bureau chief for The New York Times, unpacks Ron DeSantis's meteoric rise in the Republican Party. She discusses his transformation of Florida into a conservative stronghold, emphasizing his controversial COVID-19 policies and clashes with major corporations over educational reforms. Mazzei analyzes DeSantis's strategic positioning against Donald Trump and his plans for an ambitious legislative agenda. Tune in to hear about his vision for a post-Trump conservatism and the ramifications for the 2024 presidential race.

Emily Cochrane, a National correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on the East Palestine train derailment and its profound impact. She discusses how a chemical burn raised significant health and environmental concerns, prompting anger from residents. The podcast delves into the bipartisan political response, highlighting disputes over accountability and the push for stricter rail safety regulations. Cochrane also shares personal stories from locals facing potential stigma, illustrating the lasting effects of the crisis on their community and livelihoods.

Dive into a haunting unsolved murder case from 1985 that continues to reverberate through a Wyoming community. A former officer's unexpected arrest sparks questions when the prosecution drops the case without explanation. The emotional journey of Shelli Wiley's family, particularly her niece's fight for justice, reveals deep personal and communal impacts. Discover the struggles of navigating family tensions and confronting a painful past while seeking closure. This mystery intertwines personal reflection and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Emma Bubola, a New York Times reporter based in London, discusses the harrowing relocation of Ukrainian children during the conflict. She reveals how many children were swept up by Russian forces and placed in families, often under the guise of humanitarian efforts. Bubola shares the poignant story of Anya, a young girl separated from her mother and caught in a cycle of propaganda. The conversation highlights the chilling exploitation of these children as tools of state narratives while exploring the devastating impact of war on families.

President Biden's bold plan to cancel $400 billion in student debt faces scrutiny from the Supreme Court. Legal experts debate whether he has the authority under the HEROES Act, with justices expressing skepticism over its fairness. Protests from those burdened by loans highlight public support, while concerns about taxpayer implications loom large. The podcast also touches on parallel protests in Israel, showcasing global unrest over government actions. Tune in for a deep dive into the legal and political ramifications of this pivotal case.

Pam Belluck, a health and science correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the looming legal battle over the abortion pill mifepristone, highlighting its significance for reproductive rights. Julian E. Barnes, a national security correspondent, sheds light on the Biden administration's unprecedented disclosure of intelligence regarding China's potential military support for Russia. Their conversation probes the implications of these issues on both domestic health policies and international diplomacy.

Ben Hubbard, Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times, offers expert insights on the catastrophic earthquake in Turkey. He discusses the troubling practices in Turkey’s construction sector, revealing conflicts of interest where builders self-inspect. The conversation digs into government negligence, including repeated waivers of building code violations. With public outrage growing, Hubbard highlights the accountability measures against builders and architects, emphasizing the devastating impact of inadequate safety standards on the tragic loss of life.

In this engaging conversation, Jeremy W. Peters, a New York Times correspondent specializing in media and politics, dives into the legal battle facing Fox News over its election fraud claims. He highlights how internal communications reveal a knotted relationship between truth and profit, with the network prioritizing ratings over journalistic integrity. The discussion also explores the complexities of proving defamation and the broader implications for media accountability in today's polarized environment, raising questions about the responsibility of news organizations.

The podcast dives into the complex world of Tesla's Autopilot amid looming lawsuits after crashes. It examines Elon Musk's bold vision for self-driving cars and the ethical dilemmas that arise from rapid technological advancements. Listeners hear personal accounts from users torn between brand loyalty and safety concerns. The discussion addresses the fine line between innovation and risk, highlighting real-world implications and societal responsibilities as Tesla navigates its controversial path forward.

Irina Tsibuk, a paramedic on the front lines near Bakhmut, shares harrowing tales of survival and the emotional toll that war inflicts on those who serve. Olga Brzeul, a film curator, recalls the bittersweet memories of her husband Victor, who died in the conflict, capturing the complex dance of love and loss amidst chaos. They discuss the agonizing shifts in the war's landscape, the cost of resilience, and how the realities of combat have forever changed their lives.