Trump's Terms

Tamara Keith, NPR's senior White House correspondent, dives into the shifting political landscape after recent Democratic victories. She explores how affordability has emerged as a primary voter concern, despite Trump downplaying it as a political gimmick. Keith discusses the disconnect between economic indicators—like tariffs and stock market gains—and the everyday struggles of families facing rising costs. She also highlights the White House's strategy to engage with voters through increased domestic travel and anticipated tariff rollbacks to alleviate grocery prices.

Stephen Fowler, an NPR reporter, dives into new emails from Jeffrey Epstein's estate that raise intriguing questions about his ties to Donald Trump. Fowler unpacks these documents, detailing connections between Epstein, Michael Wolff, and Ghislaine Maxwell, while shedding light on the House Oversight Committee’s investigation. The discussion also explores the timing of this email release, its political implications, and reviews Trump’s past denials regarding his relationship with Epstein. A compelling look at a complex web of high-profile connections.

Danielle Kurtzleben, an NPR reporter specializing in tariff analysis, discusses President Trump's proposal to offer $2,000 dividends to Americans from tariff revenue. She reveals that experts doubt the revenue can support such refunds, potentially leading to a budget deficit. Additionally, Kurtzleben explains how the White House might explore tax cuts instead of direct payments. The podcast also delves into the administration's legal stance, arguing that tariffs should be viewed as regulatory rather than primarily revenue-generating.

Miles Parks, NPR's voting correspondent, dives into the controversial pardons issued by President Trump for 77 individuals, including Rudy Giuliani and Mark Meadows. He examines the implications for the legal challenges surrounding the 2020 election. Parks clarifies the role of alternate electors and discusses the lack of federal charges against many. Additionally, he provides insight into the ongoing state-level cases and how unfounded fraud claims are shaping election policies. This illuminating conversation unveils the tangled web of politics and law.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a former state lawmaker, sheds light on the state's challenge against presidential tariff authority. He argues that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not support imposing tariffs, emphasizing the need for Congressional approval. Bonta also discusses the strategic litigation California pursues to uphold legal boundaries on executive power. With concerns over consumer impacts, he highlights potential job losses and rising costs in California, framing the issue as a crucial fight against executive overreach.

Tamara Keith, NPR's Senior White House correspondent, dives into the latest political currents as President Trump faces key domestic challenges. She discusses how gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia serve as indicators of voter sentiment towards Trump. Tamara also reveals insights on Trump's influential endorsements and social media strategy. Additionally, she sheds light on the Supreme Court's review of the administration's tariff policies and the implications of a government shutdown on Trump's approval ratings.

Cindy Long, former USDA administrator for nutrition programs, shares her insights on the staggering recent cutoff of SNAP benefits. She discusses the dire consequences for millions facing hunger, particularly vulnerable families and children. Long highlights the economic challenges SNAP recipients face and dispels misconceptions about their work status. Additionally, she emphasizes the urgent need for community support and local food banks in response to increased demand, calling the funding decisions 'extraordinary' in their implications.

Jackie Northam, an NPR international affairs correspondent, dives into President Trump's recent rare earth agreements with Asian nations aimed at lessening U.S. dependence on China. She explains the strategic motivations behind these deals and discusses the contributions of countries like Thailand and Japan. Northam highlights the hesitations of Asian nations to fully engage due to their ties with China and assesses the lengthy, complex process of building new supply chains. Ultimately, she suggests that broader international alliances are necessary for a sustainable solution.

Tamara Keith, NPR's senior White House correspondent, dives into Trump's recent hints about a third term. She explores the constitutional implications and unpacks how allies like Steve Bannon have fueled this narrative. Trump’s use of symbolism, such as hats on his desk, keeps the rumor mill churning. Keith argues that Trump's motivations may be more about provoking reactions than genuine intent. Finally, she clarifies there's no legal pathway for a third term due to the 22nd Amendment, painting a complex picture of Trump's tactics.

Kiara Eisner, an NPR reporter known for her investigative work on immigration tactics, reveals alarming practices of federal agents. They cover their faces and disguise their vehicles when arresting migrants, leading to concerns over accountability and public safety. Eisner discusses how some vehicles lack agency markings, with claims of changing plates daily, which violates state laws. Experts weigh in on the implications of these tactics, raising questions about the moral and legal implications of such concealment.