The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown

U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal discusses the alarming DOJ probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, emphasizing the threats to Fed independence. She highlights the administration's recent surge of immigration agents in Minneapolis amid protests following an ICE shooting. Jayapal advocates for diplomacy over military action regarding Iran, calling for Congressional oversight and authorization. The conversation touches on the potential repercussions of U.S. military actions and the geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran.

John Miller, CNN's chief law enforcement analyst, dives into the complex legal norms surrounding federal agent-involved shootings. Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader, evaluates the impact of health care subsidies and provides insight into foreign policy regarding Venezuela. Ryan Zinke shares U.S. strategies in the region, addressing geopolitical tensions. Dr. Marty McCary discusses new FDA guidance on nutrition and updates pediatric vaccine recommendations. The discussion captures the intersection of local and federal accountability amidst pressing political landscapes.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara discusses tactical training and the ongoing investigation into the police shooting of Renee Nicole Good. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison calls for a transparent probe, while U.S. Senator Adam Schiff weighs in on military engagement in Venezuela. Ryan Young reports live from the Minneapolis protests, capturing the tension on the ground. Former FBI agent Josh Campbell breaks down the shooting video, debating law enforcement tactics and implications. Emotions run high as the community reacts to both the shooting and federal responses.

Natasha Bertrand, CNN's national security correspondent, shares insights on the daring U.S. seizure of the Bella One, a Russian-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela. Elena Treen, a White House reporter, discusses the administration's stringent conditions for Venezuela and oil revenue plans. Senator Marco Rubio outlines a strategic three-phase approach for Venezuela concerning stabilization and oil leverage. Manu Raju, CNN's chief congressional correspondent, reveals Congress's mixed reactions and queries regarding the operation's objectives and potential military implications.

In this discussion, President Donald J. Trump addresses House Republicans, focusing on the recent military operation in Venezuela while advocating for party unity ahead of the midterms. Carrie, a national security analyst, provides insights on the legal implications of the operation, questioning the U.S.'s future role and international law challenges. They debate potential threats posed by Maduro and the political ramifications of the raid, revealing the complexities of U.S. involvement in Venezuela's future.

Evan Perez, CNN's senior justice correspondent, dives into Nicolás Maduro's dramatic court appearance on drug and weapons charges. He discusses the extensive DEA investigation that led to these allegations, along with the complex legal defenses Maduro might employ. The podcast also explores Venezuela's political turmoil, detailing the anticipated role of the National Assembly and the controversial interim president, Delcy Rodriguez. Additionally, international reactions, including those from the U.N. and regional implications, add layers to this unfolding story.

Swiss authorities share new details about the New Year's Eve fire at a ski resort bar that killed at least 40 people. Plus, President Trump gives new insight into his health, including the bruising that's been seen on his hands and why he's going against one of his doctors recommendations. And we have exclusive new reporting on plans to cut FEMA personnel.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Self-described Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani is officially the Mayor of New York City. The 34-year-old makes history as the city's first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Mamdani stunned the political world with his victory in last summer's Democratic primary campaigning on affordability, promising universal child care programs, rent freezes and making city busses free to all passengers. We take a closer look at Mamdani, beginning with CNN correspondent Gloria Pazmino.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Liptak, a CNN senior White House reporter, shares insights on the US's historic drone strike in Venezuela, highlighting the administration's secrecy and President Trump's comments. Thomas L. Friedman, a New York Times columnist, discusses the complicated dynamics of US diplomacy in the Middle East, especially regarding Israel and Gaza. They also delve into advanced technology for searching for MH370, emphasizing the role of AI in refining search areas. Additionally, a brutal winter storm disrupts major highways across the US.

President Trump ends the year with an aggressive effort to end wars in both Gaza and Ukraine, and make good on one of his biggest campaign promises ...Two helicopters slam into one another in midair, causing both to plummet to the ground, killing at least one ... Nearly 12 years since Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 vanished, yet another search effort is getting underway.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices