The NPR Politics Podcast

The lines between what the Republican and Democratic parties believe have blurred since President Trump first became candidate Trump in 2015. We discuss how the parties — and their supporters — have shifted, and where they go from here. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, congressional correspondent Barbara Sprunt, and senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 25 November 2025

The Trump administration is attempting to push through a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia that many have criticized as heavily favoring Russia. We discuss the proposal and the chances for a lasting peace. This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and national security correspondent Greg Myre. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 24 November 2025

From a rare political turn-about on the Epstein files, to a judicial slap-back on his redistricting plan in Texas, President Trump had a tough week. Is his grip on the Republican Party starting to break? Plus, a new poll shows Democrats with a big advantage going into the midterms. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 21 November 2025

The September jobs report, released belatedly on Thursday, shows the United States added 119,000 jobs, beating expectations, but the unemployment rate went up. We discuss what the data tells us about the economy and how the Trump administration is responding to the news. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, and chief economics correspondent Scott Horsley. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2025

A look at more than 600 immigrants arrested since the Trump administration began amped up immigration enforcement efforts in Chicago finds almost none have convictions. We discuss what enforcement tactics looked like on the ground and what to expect as enforcement ramps up in Charlotte, North Carolina. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, immigration correspondent Sergio Martínez-Beltrán, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 19 November 2025

President Trump says he won’t “rule out” sending troops to Venezuela, and over the weekend, the world’s largest aircraft carrier arrived in the Caribbean Sea. We discuss why the United States has amassed such a large military presence in the region, and what reasons the Trump administration might have for targeting Venezuela specifically. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and Pentagon correspondent Tom Bowman. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 18 November 2025

The subsidies roughly 22 million Americans rely on to help pay for their health insurance are set to expire at the end of next month unless Congress votes to extend them. We discuss the debate on the Hill, and what would happen to the Affordable Care Act without the subsidies. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, and health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Published: 17 November 2025

The House Oversight Committee has released 23,000 pages of documents from the estate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. We discuss what new information is in the documents and whether the release puts new political pressure on President Trump. This episode: national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, political reporter Stephen Fowler, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2025

The government shutdown is over, after Congress passed a deal Wednesday that funds the government through the end of January. The deal does not extend expiring health insurance subsidies, but it does include a provision allowing several Senate Republicans to sue the government for millions. We discuss what’s in the deal and what comes next. This episode: national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, congressional correspondent Deirdre Walsh, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2025

The redistricting arms race continues, with several developments that may blunt President Trump's effort to advantage the Republican Party in the 2026 midterm elections. We also discuss a case before the Supreme Court that could alter how mail-in ballots are counted and an effort to reduce elections occurring in odd-numbered years. This episode: national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and voting correspondent Miles Parks. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2025

A recent Tucker Carlson interview with far-right influencer Nick Fuentes has stirred controversy at the Heritage Foundation, a prominent right-leaning think tank. We discuss the fallout and the conservative movement’s struggles over how to handle right-wing figures who express antisemitic views. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2025

The Senate has advanced a plan to end the government shutdown, after a group of Democrats broke with leadership to vote for the deal. We discuss what’s in the deal and what to make of the politics of it. Can Democrats claim a win? This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, congressional correspondent Claudia Grisales, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

Democrats had a good day on Tuesday, winning up and down the ballot across the country. We discuss what lessons the down-ballot victories offer, as well as what the Democratic and Republican parties can learn from this week’s election results. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political reporter Stephen Fowler, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 7 November 2025

The Supreme Court heard arguments this week about whether President Trump overstepped the limits of his power when he implemented widespread tariffs to address trade deficits. We discuss what both sides argue and the potential ramifications of the court striking down the president’s tariff policy. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, justice correspondent Carrie Johnson, and White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2025

Democrats saw major wins in Tuesday’s elections, from California’s redistricting ballot measure to gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey and the mayoral race in New York City. We discuss what the results say about the future of the Democratic Party and to what extent the wins reflect a referendum on President Trump. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2025

Tuesday is the last day voters in New Jersey and Virginia can cast ballots in their states’ gubernatorial races, as well as the end of voting in California’s redistricting ballot measure contest and New York City’s mayoral race. We discuss the big takeaways from each of those contests and what lessons they offer about the 2026 midterm elections. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2025

President Trump recently returned from a week-long trip to Asia. We discuss the president’s speech to military troops in Japan, what came out of Trump’s highly watched meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping, and the fact that all of this happened during a month-long federal government shutdown.  This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, and national security correspondent Greg Myre. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

The NPR Politics Podcast celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special live show. We discuss how unusual mid-decade redistricting efforts could alter the landscape for the midterms, as well as some of the major themes to watch as the election draws closer. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, voting correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, political reporter Elena Moore, senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.  This podcast was produced by Brent Baughman, Casey Morell & Bria Suggs. It was edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2025

During a roundtable at the White House earlier this month, President Trump directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to designate antifa, the far-left movement opposing fascism, as a foreign terrorist organization. We discuss whether the Trump administration can legally do that, and even if it can’t, the significance of the president suggesting it.  This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2025

Millions of Americans are set to lose federal food assistance on Nov. 1, unless lawmakers step in. We discuss how food banks are handling the imminent crisis and whether the deadline will push congressional leaders back to the negotiating table. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political reporter Stephen Fowler, and congressional correspondent Barbara Sprunt. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

The Trump administration has said universities that sign a compact agreeing to certain policy priorities will get preferential treatment when it comes to get federal funding. Though no schools have signed the agreement yet, some say they are in discussions with the administration about it. We discuss the compact and other tactics by an administration that has made reshaping higher education a priority. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, education correspondent Elissa Nadworny, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2025

This week in Washington, President Trump halted trade talks with Canada, announced a private donation to help pay the military and authorized new sanctions on Russian oil. We discuss these developments, as well as how Trump uses his carefully cultivated image. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2025

The Trump administration broke ground this week on a new White House ballroom, demolishing the White House’s East Wing in the process. We discuss why the project is controversial and who is paying the $300 million bill. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. Amazon and Google are financial supporters of NPR and Amazon pays to distribute some of our content. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 23 October 2025

The Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse and oversight over military actions, but recent actions by the White House appear to step on that authority. We discuss whether Congress has ceded its power to the Trump administration and what it would take to get it back.  This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, congressional correspondent Claudia Grisales, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2025

At the heart of the federal government shutdown is a fight on Capitol Hill over health insurance subsidies. We discuss the likely impact of not extending those subsidies past their expiration at the end of the year, plus how the government shutdown is forcing some family planning clinics to close. This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, health policy correspondent Selena Simmons-Duffin, and congressional correspondent Barbara Sprunt. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

Dominion Voting Systems, the election technology firm at the center of several election-related conspiracy theories in 2020, was sold this month and rebranded as Liberty Vote. We discuss the practical implications of the transformation and how it could affect the 2026 midterm elections.  This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, voting correspondent Miles Parks, and Colorado Public Radio reporter Bente Birkeland. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

The Justice Department indicted former National Security Adviser John Bolton on charges related to mishandling classified information. Bolton was a vocal critic of President Trump, and his indictment comes on the heels of indictments of other Trump critics, James Comey and Letitia James. We discuss the case against Bolton as well as other major news in Washington this week.  This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and senior political and editor correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2025

Gen Z and millennial voters are a significant voting bloc — expected to account for more than half of eligible voters by the next presidential election. We discuss how the financial pressures weighing specifically on younger rural voters affects how and whether they vote. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, political reporter Elena Moore, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 16 October 2025

One task the federal government does a lot of is gathering data -- on prices, on the job market, and on a bunch of other things. When the government is shut down, those data aren't getting collected, and economic policy decisions based on those data aren't getting made with the full picture. We discuss why this aspect of the government shutdown has a broader impact than you might think. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, and senior economic correspondent Scott Horsley. This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2025

Republicans, both in Congress and at the state level, are continuing a push to restrict voting by U.S. citizens living abroad. We discuss what those restrictions could look like and what they could mean for voters, including those who live in the country. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, voting correspondent Hansi Lo Wang, and voting correspondent Miles Parks. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2025

From Consider This from NPR: Nearly a quarter century after the September 11th attacks, the Trump administration is using the language of terrorism to target a new enemy: Latin American drug cartels. The president says the U.S. is in armed conflict with drug cartels. Scott Detrow talks to a Bush-era lawyer who says the powers of war are too extraordinary to use against crime. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

The Justice Department indicted New York Attorney General Letitia James, an outspoken critic of President Trump, this week on allegations of fraud. It comes after the DOJ indicted another Trump critic, former FBI director James Comey, who was arraigned this week on charges alleging he lied to Congress. Then, we get an update on the government shutdown, and talk about a cat's wild ride. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, national justice correspondent Carrie Johnson, and congressional reporter Sam Gringlas. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2025

Hamas and Israel have agreed to the first phase of a deal designed to end the war in Gaza. We discuss President Trump’s role in the negotiations that brought about the deal and whether lasting peace could be on the horizon. This episode: voting and election security correspondent Miles Parks, national security correspondent Greg Myre, and senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 9 October 2025

President Trump has taken steps to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago and to Portland, Oregon. We discuss how the administration justifies those actions, as well as how Albuquerque, New Mexico, is using that state’s National Guard to fight crime This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, Pentagon correspondent Tom Bowman, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2025

The federal government shutdown is in its seventh day, with negotiations on Capitol Hill over reopening the government at a stalemate. We discuss how the shutdown is affecting federal workers and the services they keep running, as well as warnings by the White House that they will lay off workers as a result of the shutdown. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, labor and workplace correspondent Andrea Hsu, and political reporter Stephen Fowler. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

Voters in New Jersey and Virginia are casting their ballots in their states’ gubernatorial elections. We discuss the major issues at play and whether federal politics are affecting the races. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, WNYC senior reporter Nancy Solomon, and WAMU reporter Margaret Barthel. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 6 October 2025

A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll released this week finds that an overwhelming majority of Americans think political violence is a major problem, but nearly a third say political violence may be necessary to put the country back on track. We discuss how young voters compare to the rest of those surveyed, as well as other major findings from the poll. This episode: voting and election security correspondent Miles Parks, politics reporter Elena Moore, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2025

Congress ordered the social media app to be sold to U.S.-based investors, citing national security concerns related to TikTok's Chinese ownership. But, despite President Trump announcing who might be involved in purchasing the app, the sale hasn't gone through yet, and it's unclear what exactly will be sold. We discuss the latest. This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political reporter Elena Moore, and technology correspondent John Ruwitch. This podcast was produced & edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2025

Wednesday marks the beginning of the first federal government shutdown since 2019, and negotiations between the leaders of both parties appear to be at a standstill. We discuss which side seems to be winning the messaging war, as well as the policy question at the center of the fight. This episode: voting and election security correspondent Miles Parks, congressional correspondent Claudia Grisales, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2025

President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a plan that could yield an end to the war in Gaza. But Hamas was not involved in crafting the 20-point plan, and it’s not clear whether they will agree to it. We discuss what benefits the plan has for each side and how the United States’ involvement fits into Trump’s America-first vision. This episode: voting and election security correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and national security correspondent Greg Myre. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2025

The Trump administration has taken steps to effectively dismantle the Merit Systems Protection Board and the Office of Special Counsel, two agencies that protect federal civil servants. We discuss why changes at these agencies matter and how the U.S. Supreme Court could grant the president broad powers to make changes at other independent agencies.  This episode: voting and election security correspondent Miles Parks, labor and workplace correspondent Andrea Hsu, and justice correspondent Carrie Johnson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Former FBI Director James Comey was indicted Thursday on charges stemming from his testimony before Congress in 2020. President Trump promised retribution against his perceived enemies and demanded that prosecutors at the Justice Department speed up the investigation targeting some of his most prominent critics. What is Comey accused of and what does the indictment signify for the rule of law? This episode: White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, justice correspondent Carrie Johnson, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2025

President Trump suggested that Tylenol can cause autism and the drug leucovorin can treat it. We discuss what the science actually says and why the president made the unusual announcement this week. This episode: White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, health correspondent Yuki Noguchi, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2025

Charlie Kirk’s memorial service this past weekend put the convergence of the MAGA movement and evangelical Christianity on full display. We discuss how MAGA and evangelical Christianity are shaping one another, and how MAGA’s version of Christianity is different from that of past Republican leaders. This episode: White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, religion correspondent Jason DeRose, domestic extremism correspondent Odette Yousef, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2025

At the United Nations General Assembly, President Trump reiterated the U.S. had no plans to recognize a Palestinian state. It comes as many traditional allies, like Canada, the United Kingdom & France, have done so in recent days. We look at why, and what the political implications are. This episode: White House correspondents Danielle Kurtzleben & Franco Ordoñez, and national security correspondent Greg Myre. This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

Funding for the federal government runs out after September 30 unless Congress can pass a bill to prevent it. We discuss congressional leaders’ negotiations over a spending bill and the politics surrounding a potential shutdown. This episode: White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, congressional correspondent Deirdre Walsh, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2025

Today, we're sharing another episode from NPR's newest podcast, Sources & Methods. Each Thursday, host Mary Louise Kelly breaks down the week's biggest national security news with NPR's team of reporters covering the military, State Department, and spy agencies. NPR correspondents stationed around the world also join the conversation.  This episode, political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben and diplomatic correspondent Michele Kelemen talk about the foreign policy issues that loomed large as President Trump visited U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer: the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. NPR international correspondent Daniel Estrin joins from Tel Aviv to talk about how Israelis are reacting to their increasing isolation amid international pressure on Israel to stop its offensive.Find new episodes of Sources & Methods on the NPR App or wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 20 September 2025

The Federal Reserve voted this week to cut interest rates by a quarter percentage point. We discuss the factors behind the agency’s decision, as well as President Trump’s legal fight to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook. This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, financial correspondent Maria Aspan, congressional correspondent Barbara Sprunt, and senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2025

The United States has launched strikes on two Venezuelan boats this month. President Trump says the boats were smuggling drugs. We discuss that justification and why Trump’s actions could be risky. This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, national security correspondent Greg Myre, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2025

In the week since MAGA activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot, some Republicans have responded by declaring "war" on liberals. We discuss that and other responses to Kirk’s death, as well as what his loss means for the Republican Party’s future. This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political reporter Elena Moore, and political reporter Stephen Fowler. This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2025