

Trump's Terms
NPR
Host Scott Detrow curates NPR's reporting, analysis and updates on the 47th President, focusing on actions and policies that challenge precedent and upend political norms, raising questions about what a President can do — and whether his efforts will benefit the voters who returned him to power. Support NPR's reporting by subscribing to Trump's Terms+ and unlock sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 15, 2025 • 7min
What's next in the investigation into Charlie Kirk's assassination
Javed Ali, a former FBI counterterrorism analyst and associate professor, dives deep into the ongoing investigation into Charlie Kirk's assassination. He discusses the complex motives behind such violent acts and the critical role of physical evidence. Ali also sheds light on the FBI's classification of nihilistic violent extremism, contrasting it with past definitions. The conversation touches on the broader challenges law enforcement faces in combating political violence against the backdrop of a divided political landscape.

Sep 12, 2025 • 5min
Fired by Trump's DOJ, lawyers find new purpose
Four prosecutors who worked on Capitol riot cases have found a way to continue public service after leaving the Justice Department. They're all colleagues again. NPR's Carrie Johnson tells their story. Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Sep 11, 2025 • 5min
A look at recent acts of political violence in the U.S.
The podcast dives into the troubling rise of political violence in the U.S., spotlighting the recent assassination of a prominent conservative activist. It analyzes the varying perspectives conservatives and liberals hold on political threats, revealing deep divisions. The discussion emphasizes the potential for further unrest amidst cultural shifts and a yearning for civility. The implications of these events on the political climate are examined, leading to an urgent call for dialogue and understanding.

Sep 10, 2025 • 5min
What the downward revision in jobs numbers indicates about the U.S. economy
A surprising downward revision in U.S. job numbers raises questions about the economy's health. Experts discuss how this revision reveals a significant overestimation of job growth and its political ramifications. The conversation also touches on the largest adjustments in job statistics since 2000, exploring inaccuracies in reporting and their impact on the labor market. It's an insightful look at how data shapes both policy and public perception.

Sep 8, 2025 • 6min
Former head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics discusses future of U.S. labor data
Tune in for insights from Erica Groshen, former head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as she discusses the integrity of U.S. labor data amidst political shifts. She highlights how changes in leadership affect data credibility and internal morale. The conversation also critiques the agency's outdated data collection methods, emphasizing the need for modernization amid declining survey responses. It's a deep dive into the intersection of politics and data that shapes America's economic narrative.

Sep 5, 2025 • 6min
Former staffers of Climate.gov are attempting to launch a new site: Climate.us
After the closure of Climate.gov, former staffers are creating Climate.us to revive crucial climate information access. They aim to offer a nonprofit platform free from political bias, ensuring that the public can rely on trustworthy climate data. The transition marks an important shift towards independent, volunteer-driven climate resources. As the media landscape evolves, the team emphasizes the need for effective communication on climate issues, making this initiative timely and essential.

Sep 4, 2025 • 5min
Judge rules Trump administration illegally froze billions in Harvard funds
A federal judge found the Trump administration acted illegally when it froze more than $2.2 billion in research funding for Harvard University. The White House says it will appeal the decision.Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Sep 3, 2025 • 4min
Trump's use of National Guard in L.A. ruled illegal
A federal judge ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration's use of the National Guard in Los Angeles was illegal. Meanwhile, the president maintained his intention to send troops to Chicago. Laura Fitzgerald reports. Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

5 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 5min
Trump targets fed worker unions -- but only some of them
The discussion spotlights significant actions taken by the Trump administration against federal employee unions, focusing on NASA and the National Weather Service. Union representatives passionately argue that these measures undermine workers' rights and threaten government efficiency. The conversation also delves into the tumultuous legal battles surrounding these union contract losses within the Agriculture Department, revealing deeper concerns about job security and the impact on national security roles.

4 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 7min
What happens when the federal government owns part of a company?
The podcast dives into the implications of government ownership in private companies, focusing on a significant investment in Intel. It raises critical questions about accountability and political influence on corporate strategy. Experts discuss the potential effects on taxpayers and market stability. Additionally, the conversation touches on the challenges conservatives face in navigating today's political landscape, emphasizing the importance of staying true to traditional values and engaging in political discourse.