Trump's Terms

The podcast dives into the groundbreaking appointment of Susie Wiles as the first female chief of staff in the West Wing. It discusses the complex dynamics women face in Trump's administration, showcasing figures like Kellyanne Conway and Ivanka Trump as examples of survival and strategy. The conversation reveals how loyalty often comes with risks, particularly for those who dare to challenge Trump's authority. It critically examines the contrasting experiences of female staffers, shedding light on themes of gender, power, and resilience.

The podcast delves into the potential fallout of proposing massive federal budget cuts under the Trump administration. It features expert opinions on not just the monumental task of slashing $2 trillion from a nearly $7 trillion budget, but also the ideological ramifications on American society. The discussion highlights the impact of national debt increase and the importance of targeted spending reviews, especially in defense and healthcare. Preparing for the challenges ahead, it underscores the need for gradual efficiency improvements in government operations.

Donald Trump is ready to take Washington by storm, promising a presidency shaped entirely on his own terms. The discussion dives into his strategy for building a powerful cabinet, highlighting key advisor picks and their potential influence on policies. Listeners will gain insight into who these figures are, what they stand for, and how they might govern. As the new administration takes shape, the podcast will track their actions and decisions closely, offering a front-row seat to a pivotal moment in politics.

For this episode of Trump's Trials, All Things Considered host Juana Summers speaks with NPR reporter Ximena Bustillo.Manhattan judge Juan Marchand is struggling with the question of what to do with the criminal conviction against President-elect Donald Trump. With Trump headed back to the White House, his lawyers are asking Marchand to throw out the case. But in a letter to the court on Tuesday, Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg seems to be suggesting the court should wait until Trump's second term is over to sentence him.Follow the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify for new episodes each Saturday.Sign up for sponsor-free episodes and support NPR's political journalism at plus.npr.org/trumpstrials.Email the show at trumpstrials@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Carrie Johnson, NPR's justice correspondent, brings her expertise to discuss the legal landscape surrounding Donald Trump's re-election. They dive into the possibility of his criminal cases fading away with his return to the White House. Johnson examines the implications of ongoing prosecutions and potential pardons. The conversation also touches on the Justice Department's response to January 6th events and the future of accountability in politics. It’s a captivating look at how Trump's legal woes might evolve against the backdrop of his political ambitions.

Tom Dreisbach, an NPR reporter dedicated to covering the January 6th Capitol attack, dives into the unexpected celebrations among those charged in connection with the event. Many defendants express their hope for pardons from Trump, framing themselves as 'political prisoners.' The discussion highlights the stark contrast between their jubilant outlook and the serious implications of the attack. Personal narratives illuminate their controversial justifications for violence and raise urgent questions about accountability and the potential normalization of extremist actions.

NPR Justice Correspondent Carrie Johnson brings her expertise on the Justice Department's intriguing decision to wind down cases against Donald Trump before his inauguration. She highlights Special Counsel Jack Smith's efforts regarding Trump's actions linked to the January 6th insurrection and the classified documents scandal. The discussion reveals how these legal maneuvers may impact Trump's return to presidency and whether political pressures will influence the outcomes. Johnson also touches on presidential immunity and the broader implications for democracy.

Miles Parks, NPR's Voting correspondent, tackles the critical topic of misinformation in elections. He debunks common myths about non-citizen voting, revealing that only a few cases exist amidst millions. Parks discusses the political motivations behind these falsehoods and the strong safeguards protecting election integrity. He also sheds light on the intricate process of mail-in ballot counting in Pennsylvania, highlighting how delays could impact results. Finally, he presents a fascinating contrast between public fears about fraud and trust in local election workers.

A recent Supreme Court ruling allows Virginia to purge voter rolls of suspected noncitizens just days before an election. This decision sparks controversy over potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters. The discussion reveals the complexities behind voter registration and the alarming impact of such purges on American democracy. Critics argue that these actions stem from unfounded fears and political motivations, raising important questions about the future of voting rights.

As Election Day approaches, Pennsylvania's mail-in ballots are at the center of intense legal battles. Ongoing lawsuits from voting rights advocates clash with Republican challenges, influencing crucial procedures for voters. Recent rulings and guidelines show the importance of handwritten dates on return envelopes, sparking discussions about best practices. The state’s pivotal role in the presidential election makes every legal twist significant, highlighting the need for vigilance in ballot submission to ensure every vote counts.