

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

Aug 26, 2025 • 6min
Trump DOJ hired lawyer who compared Jan. 6 prosecutions to the Holocaust
The hiring of a controversial lawyer by the Department of Justice raises eyebrows, especially given his shocking comparison of January 6 prosecutions to the Holocaust. This move has ignited intense debates about the implications for justice related to the Capitol riot. The podcast dives into the transformative vision of the current administration and examines how such appointments could affect ongoing investigations and shape opinions on the legal ramifications of the events of January 6.

Aug 25, 2025 • 5min
U.S. sending warships to Venezuelan waters
U.S. warships are making a bold move towards Venezuelan waters, aimed at combating drug trafficking. The deployment sparks mixed reactions from both Venezuelan opposition leaders and the Maduro administration. The podcast dives into the contradictions within U.S. policy, highlighting the tension between economic sanctions and military actions. It also examines the geopolitical ramifications of America's military presence in the region and questions the effectiveness of using force in ongoing anti-narcotics efforts.

Aug 21, 2025 • 10min
DOJ threatens legal action against some cities and states over immigration policies
The Justice Department is threatening legal action against cities and states that resist federal immigration laws. Democratic leaders stand firm, arguing their policies are lawful. Washington state's Governor responds to these threats, defending local laws against federal criticisms. The podcast explores how officials cope with the mounting pressure and potential funding cuts, showcasing the intense political clash over immigration enforcement. Personal anecdotes reveal the fear and stakes for those advocating for state rights.

Aug 20, 2025 • 6min
Trump administration wants government to have an equity stake in chipmaker Intel
The Trump administration is eyeing a significant equity stake in Intel, raising questions about government involvement in tech. Experts discuss how this move ties into broader economic strategies and national security concerns surrounding semiconductor manufacturing. The balance of taxpayer interests with Intel's future expansions and collaborations is also scrutinized, highlighting the transformative potential of this unusual deal for the tech industry.

Aug 19, 2025 • 4min
Trump wants to stop states from voting by mail and using voting machines
President Trump is rallying a movement to eliminate mail-in ballots and certain voting machines ahead of the midterms. The conversation dives into his legal strategies and concerns about Democratic advantages. It also tackles the constitutional limits on presidential powers regarding state elections, raising important questions about voting rights. This bold stance may have significant ramifications for how citizens cast their votes in the upcoming elections.

4 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 5min
Trump's D.C. 'crisis' enters 2nd week with more soldiers — and no exit strategy
Tensions escalate in Washington D.C. as the military's presence grows, leaving residents anxious about a lack of an exit strategy. Local leaders express fears over potential clashes in vulnerable communities. Amidst the turmoil, community resilience shines through, showcasing the importance of support and unity. The podcast reflects on the political implications of these unprecedented changes and shares insights from the mayor, emphasizing the necessity for a collective response during these challenging times.

Aug 14, 2025 • 6min
Can Trump make a deal with Russia? Europe watches closely
The discussion centers around President Trump's foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding his tense interactions with Russia. A summit in Alaska raises concerns about missing European leadership and the implications for global geopolitics. Key leaders emphasize the need for a ceasefire in Ukraine, reflecting on the complexities of negotiations. The role of Europe in supporting Ukraine's reconstruction and potential EU integration is highlighted, showcasing the stakes in the ongoing conflict.

4 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 3min
Trump official acknowledges: Congress has final say on census
A surprising clarification emerges as a Trump administration official states Congress ultimately holds power over the U.S. Census, not the president. The podcast dives into the potential political manipulation surrounding the census and its pivotal role in determining electoral boundaries. Discussions also center on proposals to conduct a new census before 2030, highlighting the complex implications of including non-citizens. Legal challenges and partisanship add further intrigue to this vital aspect of American democracy.

7 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 5min
RFK Jr. undermines trust in expertise at HHS
The discussion revolves around the controversial actions of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., spotlighting his drastic steps that undermine trust in the Department of Health and Human Services. The conversation highlights his disregard for vaccine experts and how cuts to research funding impact public health. Critiques of his vaccine policies reveal concerns about the long-term effects on scientific integrity and public trust in health leadership.

8 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 5min
Trump's DC takeover: crime narrative doesn't match the facts
The discussion kicks off with a dive into the dramatic changes during a former president's term, setting a charged political scene. It examines Trump's controversial federal control over D.C. police and National Guard deployment amidst exaggerated crime claims. Notably, statistics reveal a significant drop in crime, challenging prevailing narratives. The critique emphasizes the dangers of misleading portrayals in shaping policies, calling for a return to evidence-based decision-making while promoting independent journalism and health awareness.