The Daily

Emily Cochrane, a Washington correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the historic passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. She highlights how the bill aims to fight climate change and lower prescription drug costs, while also focusing on Senator Joe Manchin's journey from holdout to key dealmaker. The conversation covers the political turbulence Democrats faced and the bill's broad benefits, including Medicare reforms and Affordable Care Act subsidies, all pivotal as the party looks ahead to the midterm elections.

In this conversation, Elizabeth Williamson, a feature writer for The New York Times known for her insights into high-profile legal cases, dives deep into the Alex Jones defamation trial. She discusses the emotional toll on Sandy Hook families due to misinformation and the landmark ruling that ordered Jones to pay $45 million. Williamson highlights a mother's bravery as she confronts Jones in court, advocating for justice and truth. The discussion sheds light on the broader implications of disinformation in today's media landscape.

Journalist Robert Kolker, known for his work on severe mental illness and complex court cases, dives into the harrowing tale of Joshua Spriestersbach. He explores how homelessness and mental illness led to Joshua serving over two years in jail for someone else's crimes. The discussion highlights systemic failures in justice and mental health care, the tragic cycle of incarceration for individuals with mental health issues, and the pressing need for reform. Kolker's insights shed light on the deep injustices faced by the most vulnerable in society.

In this engaging discussion, cruise enthusiast Charles Falls Jr., affectionately known as Chillie, shares his passionate pursuit of travel amid the pandemic. With a heartwarming mix of humor and vulnerability, he recounts his struggles and triumphs in planning a cruise while managing prostate cancer. Cristal Duhaime, a producer at The Times podcast First Person, delves into Chillie's emotional rollercoaster, from the anxious wait for COVID test results to the serene joy of setting sail to the Bahamas, emphasizing the importance of hope and connection during challenging times.

Mitch Smith, a Midwest correspondent for The New York Times, delves into Kansas's recent referendum on abortion rights, marking a significant moment in U.S. politics. He discusses the overwhelming voter turnout that crossed party lines, illustrating a powerful backlash against the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Smith shares personal stories from residents, shedding light on how individual experiences influence public opinion. The conversation highlights Kansas as a central hub for abortion access and sets the stage for future political ramifications.

Jonathan Weisman, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the intriguing strategy of Democrats meddling in Republican primaries. He discusses the controversial choice to boost far-right candidates, believing they'll be easier to defeat in the midterms. The dynamics in Michigan spark heated debates, especially with moderate Peter Meyer facing MAGA-aligned John Gibbs. Unintended consequences of a negative ad campaign highlight the risks of this tactic, raising questions about its effects on party dynamics and democracy.

The podcast delves into the U.S. drone strike that eliminated Ayman al-Zawahiri, former al-Qaeda leader. It explores his unique legacy and connections to Osama bin Laden. The discussion highlights how his death impacts global terrorism and U.S.-Afghanistan relations. Additionally, the contrasting tactics of al-Qaeda and ISIS are examined, showcasing how both groups adapt under pressure. Political tensions, like Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit, and the NFL controversy are also touched upon, amplifying the conversation around accountability in various arenas.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives into the alarming spread of monkeypox in the U.S. Initially deemed manageable, the virus quickly escalated into a public health crisis. Apoorva discusses challenges in testing and vaccination, particularly affecting the LGBTQ+ community. She shares personal accounts of individuals facing difficulties in securing treatment. The conversation sheds light on systemic weaknesses in the public health infrastructure and the urgent need for improved responses to outbreaks.

Lisa Lucas, the first Black publisher in Pantheon’s history, shares her transformative journey in the book publishing industry. They discuss the overdue push for diversity, revealing the past struggles of marginalized authors and the industry’s elitist culture. Lucas emphasizes the importance of creating a larger readership rather than competing for limited audiences. The conversation also touches on the rise of indie Black publishers and the systemic barriers they face, offering a hopeful outlook on the evolving literary landscape.

Jennifer Medina, a national reporter for The New York Times, dives into the groundbreaking election of Mayra Flores, marking a decisive shift in the Latino vote. They discuss Flores' journey from a migrant farm worker to a congresswoman, highlighting her conservative values and appeal to diverse demographics. The conversation also explores how she navigates personal and political influences, particularly regarding the border crisis and immigration. Medina sheds light on the rising influence of conservative Latinas in shaping Republican strategies moving forward.