Here & Now Anytime

Join Chuck Wexler, a policing policy expert, as he sheds light on the tension between local police and federal immigration enforcement. Khalid Omar, a community organizer, shares the trauma and resilience within Minnesota's Somali-American community amid harsh rhetoric and ICE operations. Adding a quirky twist, researcher Raffaela Lesch discusses her fascinating study on urban raccoons, revealing signs of early domestication and their adorable differences from rural counterparts. A mix of serious and playful topics awaits!

Fiona Hill, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and former National Security Council official, shares her insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine and its broader implications. She argues there's no imminent resolution to the conflict, highlighting Europe's heavy reliance on U.S. military support. Hill emphasizes Ukraine's innovative military strategies and the potential consequences of diminishing U.S. involvement. Additionally, she discusses how recent U.S. boat strikes in the Caribbean send significant geopolitical signals to both Russia and China.

Madison McVann, a reporter for the Minnesota Reformer, discusses President Trump's inflammatory remarks on Somali immigrants, shedding light on community fears and targeted ICE operations in Minnesota. Eleanor Beardsley, NPR's foreign correspondent, provides insights into the failed peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing ongoing regional tensions. Wailin Wong from NPR's Planet Money explains the impact of the Dell family's $250 gift to children's investment accounts, exploring how financial literacy and contributions can address wealth inequality.

This episode features Elliott Abrams, a former U.S. official and advocate for regime change in Venezuela, and Tom Bowman, an NPR Pentagon correspondent. Abrams argues that military strikes are necessary for change in Venezuela, emphasizing a strategy that includes amnesty for defecting officials. He also analyzes the potential for Maduro to survive sustained U.S. pressure. Bowman discusses the Pentagon's controversial strike orders, raising accountability questions amidst the scrutiny over military actions. The conversation reveals deep implications for both U.S. foreign policy and Venezuelan democracy.

Juan Sebastián González, a former policy expert at the Biden administration's National Security Council, delves into the legal implications of Trump's decision to pardon drug trafficker Juan Orlando Hernandez while simultaneously targeting drug boats. Franco Ordoñez, NPR's White House correspondent, reveals bipartisan concerns over potential war crimes linked to these strikes. Dr. Monica Gandhi from UCSF discusses the troubling absence of World AIDS Day commemoration and its impact on global HIV awareness and funding, raising alarms about the future of AIDS policy.

Charlie Mattos, host of the Grand Ole Opry, shares the venue's rich history and emotional significance for artists. Mandy Barnett, a beloved country music singer and Opry member, reflects on her heartfelt journey to the stage and the connection with the audience. David Greeno, a tribal elder from the Menominee Indian Tribe, discusses the recent reburial of 67 ancestors and the cultural importance of their return, highlighting the ongoing struggle for Native American repatriation and healing.

Roger Connor, a curator at the National Air and Space Museum, shares fascinating insights about the Sopwith Camel, a fighter plane that dominated WWI with its speed and agility. He highlights its intriguing design and nickname origin, while also detailing the unexpected challenges pilots faced. Additionally, Yomi Young pays tribute to the late Alice Wong, a disability rights advocate, reflecting on her legacy, values, and the importance of community. Young encourages activism in Wong's spirit, emphasizing the need to uplift disabled voices.

Scott Tong, a national reporter, dives into the vibrant Venezuelan community in Doral, Florida, the heart of Venezuelan exile culture. He explores their fervent calls for U.S. intervention against Nicolás Maduro, sparked by hopes that Trump might catalyze change. Hear gripping stories about the impacts of ending Temporary Protected Status, leaving many undocumented and vulnerable. The podcast also highlights the tension between local Venezuelans and the staunchly pro-Trump mayor, shedding light on the complex political landscape of this unique community.

Retired Major General Stephen Lepper shines a light on military law, dissecting the complexities of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, particularly on lawful versus unlawful orders. Michael Shifter analyzes the implications of U.S. military pressure on Venezuela, tackling misconceptions about drug trafficking. Investigative reporter Avi Asher-Schapiro unveils the controversy surrounding White House interventions in the Andrew Tate case, raising ethical concerns and possible cronyism. Together, they navigate the intersection of military justice, international policy, and political intrigue.

Adrian Fontes, Arizona Secretary of State, discusses the alarming request for state voter data by the Trump administration and the privacy implications it raises. Father David Inczauskis shares insights on a lawsuit against the federal government for blocking clergy access to detainees at an ICE facility, shedding light on poor conditions and transparency issues. Rosalyn Boucha reports on Indigenous participation at COP30, highlighting strides made but also significant gaps in addressing Indigenous rights and environmental concerns.