

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

10 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 6min
Trump carries out his 'flood the zone' strategy, creating a week of whiplash
This week was packed with significant news amid a torrent of announcements from the administration. The 'flood the zone' strategy creates a whirlwind of policies, including a contentious Gaza plan and changes to federal workforce management. Political maneuvering is front and center, with new tariffs affecting foreign relations and an emphasis on controversial social issues like DEI and transgender athletes. Meanwhile, cultural discourse around diversity is heating up, raising questions about representation in the current political climate.

Feb 6, 2025 • 5min
Georgia sheriffs slow to implement new federal immigration law due to lack of funding
Georgia's recent immigration law, sparked by a tragic murder, faces significant hurdles. Local sheriffs struggle to implement new policies due to inadequate funding, raising questions about the effectiveness of the law. The discussion dives into the complexities of local enforcement and the partnerships that exist between state and federal immigration efforts. Experts highlight the financial challenges that hinder proper law enforcement, emphasizing the need for additional resources to tackle these issues.

8 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 7min
Trump floats idea to make Gaza Strip 'the Riviera of the Middle East'
President Trump stirs controversy with his bold proposal to transform Gaza into a luxurious destination, dubbed 'the Riviera of the Middle East.' Discussions unfold around the potential displacement of local residents and its impact on the two-state solution. A deep dive into Israeli politics reveals the complex reactions to Trump's plans. The historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict adds layers to the conversation, shedding light on the ongoing challenges and potential solutions in this tumultuous region.

4 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 5min
President Trump is trying to dramatically reshape the federal government
The podcast dives into President Trump's radical plans to reshape the federal government, revealing ambitions to overhaul the federal workforce. Listeners learn about the halted order affecting trillions in payments and the uncertain job security for federal employees. The discussion also highlights the chaos stemming from a budget freeze and its potential legal ramifications. Finally, the show explores recent court rulings that challenge executive authority over federal spending, showcasing the contentious power dynamics at play.

10 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 6min
Hegseth has signaled he may halt efforts to fight extremism in the military
The podcast delves into the shifting landscape of U.S. military policies under new leadership. It highlights intense debates around addressing extremism within the armed forces. Listeners hear about the alarming trends of radicalization among military members and the potential implications of curbing anti-extremism initiatives. The discussion also includes insights from a Secretary of Defense confirmation hearing, shedding light on differing views regarding the severity of these issues.

Jan 27, 2025 • 4min
Colombia agrees to take deported migrants after Trump threatens tariffs
Tensions flared between Colombia and the U.S. over deportation flights, leading to threats of tariffs. Initially, Colombia resisted accepting deported migrants, but under pressure, they changed course. This highlights the complexities of international relations and humanitarian concerns. As the political landscape shifts, the potential impact of new leadership looms large, promising bold strategies that could redefine Washington's dynamics.

9 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 5min
What designating cartels as terrorist organizations means in practice
An executive order designates drug cartels as terrorist organizations, raising questions about its practical implications. The discussion covers legal challenges and potential military responses from the U.S. Such designations could complicate U.S.-Mexico relations while reflecting historical hesitations. The broader impact on federal norms during political shifts adds an intriguing layer to the conversation.

12 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 9min
Trump's crackdown on DEIA programs within the federal government is underway
Federal agencies are racing against a deadline to remove DEIA programs and place related staff on paid leave, sparking concerns about equity in hiring. The administration's new approach also allows tracking down migrants in churches and schools, igniting fear among immigrant communities. The discussion highlights the backlash from marginalized groups and the community's efforts to maintain vital services amidst these policy shifts. The tension between security and the protection of vulnerable populations raises important questions about the future of inclusion efforts.

14 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 8min
Trump says he wants tariffs to start February first
President Trump is eyeing February 1 to implement hefty tariffs on Canada and Mexico, stirring debates on trade implications and illegal immigration. The discussion dives into how these tariffs could reshape U.S. relations with its neighbors, triggering economic fallout like inflation. Meanwhile, the historical tussle over renaming Mount McKinley back to Denali illustrates the clash of perspectives between respecting Native Alaskan heritage and historical recognition. It’s a rich mix of policy, tradition, and contemporary issues.

Jan 21, 2025 • 9min
President Trump signed a slew of executive actions on day one
The discussion dives into President Trump's controversial pardons for those involved in the January 6th Capitol attack, raising questions about the impact on law enforcement. It also highlights his swift immigration executive orders aimed at tightening border security. The podcast further explores the legal challenges these actions could face, particularly surrounding birthright citizenship and civil rights. The ripple effects of these decisions signal a significant shift in the political landscape.