Washington reacts to President Biden's pardon for his son Hunter. Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) tells Meet the Press NOW that he's "pretty angry" about Biden's message in the pardon. NY State Senator James Skoufis discusses his view for the future of the Democratic Party as he makes a bid to be the next DNC Chair.

Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor, discusses a recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah, emphasizing the U.S.'s crucial role in hostage negotiations. Chris Murphy, a Democratic Senator from Connecticut, shares his reactions to bomb threats targeted at his state's congressional delegation. The conversation touches on the broader implications of regional conflicts, effective leadership, and the need for bipartisan cooperation in navigating complex political dynamics.

President-elect Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum give conflicting readouts from their call about tariffs and the U.S. southern border. Australia imposes a sweeping social media ban for children under the age of 16. After the Fire USA CEO Jennifer Gray Thompson joins Meet the Press NOW to discuss the importance of federal disaster tax relief legislation that remains stalled in the Senate.

Daniel Goldman, a New York Democratic Congressman and former assistant U.S. attorney, discusses the implications of recent legal decisions regarding Trump’s election interference case. He shares insights on how House Democrats will navigate their minority status in the upcoming Congress. The conversation also touches on the agreed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, its geopolitical effects, and the evolving U.S. trade policy as President-elect Trump proposes new tariffs, setting the stage for future economic dynamics and international relations.

Ashley Etienne, a former communications advisor to Vice President Harris, dives into the political implications of Trump's cabinet picks and Project 2025. She discusses the urgency and potential fallout from Trump's mass deportation plan, highlighting the anxiety in mixed-status families. The conversation further covers the ideological diversity among Trump's nominees and the challenges they will face. Etienne also touches on the rising influence of the crypto lobby in Washington and its impact on future regulations.

Senator Eric Schmitt from Missouri shares his insights on President-elect Trump's cabinet picks, highlighting the scrutiny and implications for immigration policy. In contrast, Democratic Senator-elect Adam Schiff voices his apprehensions about Trump's agenda and its potential impact on accountability within the government. The conversation also touches on the political maneuvering surrounding NATO commitments and the challenges of vetting nominees. Finally, the urgency of addressing government shutdown risks adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape.

Pete Hegseth, a Fox News personality and President-elect Trump’s pick for defense secretary, discusses the challenges surrounding his nomination and the political implications. Glenn Ivey, House Ethics Rep., reacts to Matt Gaetz's withdrawal from consideration for attorney general, delving into the ethics investigations and potential double standards within the GOP. The conversation highlights the turbulent dynamics on Capitol Hill, Trump's influence on the Republican Party, and the future of nominations amidst ongoing controversies.

Chuck Todd, NBC News chief political analyst, teams up with Senator Kevin Cramer from North Dakota to explore the political landscape. Cramer discusses the implications of the House Ethics report on Matt Gaetz’s attorney-general nomination and shares concerns about his confirmation prospects. They delve into geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine, while Todd analyzes the upcoming Cabinet picks from President-elect Trump. Their conversation highlights the interplay between ethics, military strategy, and shifting political dynamics.

Trump is pushing Senate Republicans to back Matt Gaetz as attorney general, despite serious allegations against him. Democrats ponder their next steps after an electoral setback, while a controversial bill from Rep. Nancy Mace threatens transgender rights in the Capitol. Discussions also delve into the implications of Trump's hush money case and the evolving dynamics of identity politics and voter demographics after recent Republican wins. Additionally, the podcast explores Putin's new nuclear strategy amidst ongoing tensions in Ukraine.

President-elect Donald Trump's picks for Attorney General and Secretary of Defense face misconduct allegations. Trump suggests he'll use the military to carry out his mass deportation plans. The U.S. gives Ukraine permission to use long-range missiles to strike inside Russia.