The Daily

Jim Clyburn, a key Democratic Congressman from South Carolina, discusses the struggle for unity in defending democracy leading up to the midterms. Robert Draper, a journalist focused on conservative politics, highlights the alarming rise of election denialism in Arizona and its ramifications for electoral dynamics. Together, they explore the complexities of American identity and the evolving political landscape, questioning whether the nation can rise above division and reclaim its foundational values.

Ruth Graham, a national correspondent for The New York Times specializing in religion, and Kevin Thompson, a former evangelical pastor who left due to political conflicts, discuss the crisis facing the evangelical movement. They explore declining church attendance post-pandemic, the political rifts within congregations, and the struggle of pastors to address faith amid divisive ideologies. Thompson shares his journey grappling with vulnerability and the challenges of fostering empathy for racial justice in a resistant environment.

Anton Troianovski, Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, offers keen insights into Putin's recent military announcements. He discusses the potential draft in Russia, aiming to mobilize hundreds of thousands in response to battlefield challenges. Troianovski delves into the implications of Putin framing the war as a defense against the West, raising alarm with nuclear threats. Additionally, he highlights the rising domestic unrest and protests against the war, painting a picture of growing dissent among the Russian populace.

Miriam Jordan, a national correspondent for The New York Times specializing in immigration, sheds light on the recent arrival of nearly 50 Venezuelan migrants in Martha’s Vineyard. She discusses the political maneuvers by conservative governors to shift immigration issues onto Democrats. The conversation reveals the humanitarian crises faced by these migrants and highlights a striking contrast between political exploitation and local compassion. Notably, she narrates Lever Alejos' inspiring journey from desperation to opportunity, underscoring the complexities of migrant experiences.

Sarah Koenig, the host and executive producer of the iconic Serial podcast, dives into the gripping tale of Adnan Syed, wrongfully convicted for the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee. She unpacks the fresh revelations that led to his release after 23 years, emphasizing flawed evidence and prosecutorial misconduct. Koenig discusses the re-examination of witness testimonies and the new DNA tests that challenge the original trial's integrity. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of the justice system and the quest for truth.

Mark Landler, the London bureau chief for The New York Times, delves into the monumental impact of Queen Elizabeth's passing on the UK. He discusses the urgent, ongoing debates about the monarchy's relevance and the future of the Commonwealth, especially in the context of colonial histories. The conversation highlights the growing independence movements in Scotland and Northern Ireland, exploring how her death has intensified these discussions. Landler also reflects on the complexities of King Charles III's role amid these shifting sentiments.

Charlotte Shane, a journalist for The New York Times Magazine and TikTok enthusiast, dives into the captivating world of audio memes. She explores why certain sound bites on TikTok evoke deep emotions, coining the term 'brainfeel.' Shane discusses viral audio clips and their cultural significance, delving into how these sounds facilitate shared experiences and engagement among users. The phenomenon reveals the transformative power of audio in modern memes, enhancing social connections and fostering creativity within the TikTok community.

Astead Herndon, a political correspondent for The New York Times, and veteran reporter Adam Nagourney unpack electoral dynamics and the shifting political landscape. They discuss the Republican Party's self-reflection post-2012 losses and how Trump's unexpected rise defied conventional wisdom. Key insights include the evolving Latino vote in 2020 and the cultural and economic factors that drew new voters to Trump. The conversation highlights the urgency of adapting to changing demographics and defending democracy amid ongoing challenges.

Eric Lipton, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, explores the complex world of deep-sea mining and its implications for the environment and electric vehicle production. He discusses the vital need for metals from ocean floors, which pose a danger to unique marine ecosystems. The conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas faced by developing nations and the role of international regulatory bodies in the controversial practices of seabed mining. Ultimately, it reveals a tension between innovation and ecological integrity in the quest for a sustainable future.

Lisa Lerer, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the contentious landscape surrounding Senator Lindsey Graham's proposed federal abortion ban after 15 weeks. She explores the stark divisions within the Republican Party as they grapple with this high-stakes issue ahead of the midterms. The discussion highlights how Democrats have capitalized on the turmoil, while Republicans struggle to create a unified strategy. Lerer also sheds light on the broader implications of this proposal, revealing the complexities of voter sentiment around abortion.