The Daily

Oleksandr Komushin, the chief executive of Ukrzaliznytsia, shares his insights into the crucial role of Ukraine's rail system during the war. He recounts the chaotic early days when civilians flooded train stations, revealing the immense pressure and bravery of railway workers. The podcast discusses how the rail network has become a lifeline, facilitating mass evacuations and supporting military logistics amid conflict. It also highlights the emotional struggles of both workers and evacuees, showcasing resilience and community spirit in the face of adversity.

Adam Liptak, the Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, dives into a pivotal case that could redefine the power dynamics in U.S. elections. He discusses the controversial 'independent state legislature' theory, opening the door for state lawmakers to wield nearly unchecked authority over federal elections. Liptak highlights the stakes of the Supreme Court's decision on gerrymandering and judicial oversight. The conversation also reflects on the historical implications for American democracy and the balance of power between state and federal governance.

Natalie Kitroeff, the New York Times Bureau chief for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, shares her on-the-ground insights from Haiti. She discusses the escalating gang violence that has led to widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis. Kitroeff delves into the power dynamics following the assassination of Haiti's former president and the government's urgent call for international armed intervention amid a cholera outbreak. Her vivid accounts highlight the desperation of Haitians caught in this chaos, as well as the complex interplay between local needs and foreign responses.

Join journalist Alexandra Alter, who covers the literary world for The New York Times, alongside Martha Hickson, a dedicated high school librarian, and Caroline Liquinko, a parent turned school board member. They navigate the fierce battle over book bans in a small New Jersey town, diving into parental motivations and community dynamics. The discussion highlights emotional testimonies, the clash of perspectives on LGBTQ literature, and the role of libraries in promoting diverse narratives in education.

Maya King, a Politics reporter for The New York Times covering the South, dives into the high-stakes Georgia Senate runoff between Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker. She explores the struggles each candidate faces, including Walker's concerns about candidate quality and the Democrats' challenges in energizing their diverse coalition. The discussion highlights the tension between political partisanship and candidate abilities, emphasizing how this runoff could shape Georgia's political landscape and future campaigning strategies.

Marc Santora, the International News Editor for The New York Times, shares insights on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine as winter approaches. He discusses the impact of Russian airstrikes on essential services, leaving many without power, heat, or water. Santora highlights the resilience of Ukrainians, showcasing creative adaptability in daily life, from survival kits in elevators to innovative cafe menus. He paints a vivid picture of life amidst the chaos, capturing the spirit of a nation enduring profound challenges.

Jon Mooallem, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, joins to discuss Noah Baumbach's film adaptation of 'White Noise.' They explore the profound impacts of the pandemic and personal loss on Baumbach's creative process. The conversation delves into themes of absurdity and mortality, revealing how real-life chaos influences storytelling. Mooallem highlights the film’s paradoxical reality, drawing connections to iconic filmmakers and addressing deep societal anxieties, all while reflecting on familial bonds and the essence of memory.

David Gelles, a climate correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the historic climate funding agreement reached at COP27, where wealthy nations pledged support for poorer countries affected by climate change. He highlights Prime Minister Mia Mottley's advocacy for climate justice and the innovative Bridgetown Initiative, aimed at reforming global finance to escape cycles of debt. Gelles emphasizes the urgent need for reform in institutions like the World Bank and IMF to effectively address climate challenges, especially for vulnerable nations.

Alan Feuer, a courts and criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, provides insight into the significant conviction of Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers' leader, for sedition related to the January 6 Capitol assault. The discussion unveils the complexities of the government's case and how this verdict showcases the organized nature of the attack. Feuer elaborates on the defense strategies that attempted to recast the Oath Keepers' image, shedding light on the legal precedents set and the implications for future trials.

Vivian Wang, a China correspondent for The New York Times, shares firsthand insights on the recent protests sweeping China against strict COVID-19 restrictions. She describes the emotions and motivations of demonstrators, highlighting how initial grievances over lockdowns have evolved into broader calls for change. The discussion also touches on the impact of the zero COVID policy on personal freedoms, the role of government propaganda, and the potential implications for President Xi Jinping's leadership amid rising public dissent.