Trump's Terms

Dozens of journalists are surrendering their Pentagon press passes due to a controversial new policy restricting reporting. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defends these measures, but critics argue they turn reporters into mere stenographers. The podcast explores the historical proximity of reporters to military affairs and the consequences of reduced access for public understanding. Experts discuss potential legal ramifications and how this shift might impact critical military coverage, emphasizing the importance of independent reporting.

President Trump is trying to reverse the Clinton era rule that puts 59 million acres of National Forest lands off limits to timber harvest and other development. America's timber industry may not see the boom many conservatives expect, as NPR's Kirk Siegler 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

A federal grand jury has indicted New York Attorney General Letitia James on bank fraud charges, raising concerns about political pressure from President Trump. Former prosecutor Elie Honig describes this as truly unprecedented, highlighting the dangers of politicizing the Justice Department. The podcast explores James's reaction, similar legal actions, and whether this indictment represents a political victory for Trump. Experts warn that targeting rivals could threaten DOJ independence and civil liberties, underscoring a critical moment in American politics.

A new poll shows that political beliefs heavily influence health perceptions. Former Surgeon General Richard Carmona warns that RFK Jr.'s appointment could undermine trust in science, particularly in vaccine information. Partisan divides have shaped how Democrats and Republicans perceive health claims, leading to a troubling decline in trust in federal health agencies. Carmona stresses the need for nonpartisan scientific advice to protect public health amidst political interference, highlighting the consequences of dismissing scientific guidance.

With the 2026 midterm election approaching, U.S. expatriates and their advocates say voting faces more uncertainty than usual, as Republican officials continue a push for more restrictions on overseas voters, including U.S. military members stationed abroad. NPR's Hansi Lo Wang 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

President Trump is bucking tradition and legal precedent in pushing to deploy the National Guard to Democratic-led cities such as Portland, Ore., and Chicago due to what he says is rampant crime and to support his crackdown on illegal immigration. NPR's Jaclyn Diaz and Juliana Kim report.Then, NPR's Steve Inskeep speaks with Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul about President Trump's efforts to deploy National Guard forces to Chicago, over state and local objections.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

Several clashes happened over the weekend between protesters and federal agents in Chicago. It comes as the Trump administration and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker fight over National Guard deployments.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

The government shutdown reaches day three as the GOP Senate pushes for partisan bills. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt discusses the urgency for a clean continuing resolution to reopen the government. She highlights concerns over federal layoffs and the impact on health care subsidies and enrollment timing. The conversation also touches on outreach to moderate Democrats to secure necessary votes and the implications of halted infrastructure funding due to furloughed workers. A tense political landscape unfolds as crucial decisions loom.

NPR speaks with retired Gen. Randy Manner, who was once a top official in the National Guard, about the president's use of the military in American cities.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

President Trump told top U.S. commanders Tuesday that he plans to use American cities as a training ground for the U.S. military to fight what he called the "enemy within."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