1 big thing

Nearly one in five health care workers quit their jobs since the start of the pandemic according to a poll in recent months by Morning Consult. So what’s being done to keep health care workers on the job? Plus, President Biden’s plan to reshape migrant detention And, why GoFundMe is ensnared in a free speech fight Guests: Dr. Vineet Arora, Dean of Medical Education at the University of Chicago School of Medicine and Axios' Stef Kight and Hope King. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Margaret Talev, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, and Lydia McMullen-Laird. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Power within the Republican party changed with lightening speed over the past several years. Axios' Jonathan Swan spoke with more than a dozen top GOP consultants - from the Trumpians to the most institutional - about what this shift means for the party. Plus, a record low in housing supply keeps driving prices up. And, Olympics corporate sponsors stay silent on human rights issues. Guests: Axios' Jonathan Swan, Hope King and Matt Phillips. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, and Lydia McMullen-Laird. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Democrats are down a crucial vote in the Senate after New Mexico Sen. Ben Ray Luján suffered a stroke. While the 49-year old senator is expected to make a full recovery, his absence means a shift in the balance of power in the Senate. For now, Republicans have a 50-49 working majority until Luján's return in 4 to 6 weeks. Plus, hundreds of thousands of U.S. bridges are in need of major repair. And, how Americans really feel about the 2022 Winter Olympics. Guests: Axios' Margaret Talev, Jennifer Kingson and David Nather. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Erica Pandey, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Alex Sugiura, and Ben O'Brien. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go deeper: Senator's stroke catches Democrats by surprise Exclusive poll: Why Americans are turned off by the Olympics America's bridges are falling apart faster than expected

In January, nearly 9 million people missed work because they were sick with COVID or taking care of someone. That's why many, including President Biden, are bracing for disappointing January job numbers, which are released Friday morning. Plus, are we past the latest covid surge? And, roads that charge your electric car while you’re driving on it. Guests: Axios' Neil Irwin, Sam Baker and Joann Muller. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said yesterday that the U.S. was trying to pull Russia into a conflict it does not want with Ukraine. Meanwhile, we’ve heard mixed messages from the Ukraine government about the U.S.’s stance. Plus, trying to solve the affordable housing crisis in fast-growing cities. And, football’s huge news day. Guests: Axios' Zach Basu, Danielle Chemtob, and Jeff Tracy. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

In this tight labor market, more companies are trying to lure and keep employees by providing fertility benefits like egg freezing or in vitro fertilization. Plus, China’s "closed loop" system for the winter Olympics. And, new laws are changing how educators can teach Black History Month. Guests: Axios' Erica Pandey, Tina Reed, and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Calls to boycott Spotify exploded this weekend, after musician Neil Young demanded the platform remove his music in protest over its most popular podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan has been accused of spreading COVID misinformation. Plus, how tipping is changing. And, one Florida chaplain on ministering to nursing home residents three years into the pandemic. Guests: Bonnie Bong, an Episcopalian Chaplain at The Pavilion for Health Care, a skilled nursing facility in Florida; and Axios' Sara Fischer and Nathan Bomey. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

After a bruising few weeks for President Biden, the president got some rare good news this week. GDP is up and he now has the chance to appoint a new Supreme Court justice, two lifelines that can help buoy his sagging poll numbers Plus, renewed attention on who can carry naloxone. And, an end to Valentine’s Day emails. Guests: Sheila Vakharia, deputy director of the department of research and academic engagement for the Drug Policy Alliance and Axios' Margaret Talev and Erica Pandey. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

News organizations are reporting the Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is planning to retire at the end of the current term. This gives President Biden his first chance to determine who's on the high court. And it's an opportunity to follow through on his campaign promise to appoint the first black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court. Plus, how his retirement could affect the midterm elections. And, the GOP courts Latino voters in Florida. Guests: Axios' Sam Baker and Sophia Cai, Republican National Committee communications director Danielle Alvarez, Lucas Acosta, coalitions director and senior spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee and Pew Research Center's Mark Hugo Lopez. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

In the last three months, the US coast guard has intercepted three boats, including one that had the largest group of migrants to land on the shores of the Florida Keys in more than two years. Plus, concerns over China’s influence on Olympics coverage. Guests: The Miami Herald's Jacqueline Charles, Tessa Petit, co-executive director of the Florida Immigrant Coalition, immigration attorney Frandley Julien, and Axios' Sara Fischer. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The U.S. has warned Russia of crippling sanctions if they invade Ukraine - but as Europe’s main natural gas suppliers - it might be hard to get Europe to support that - because Russia provides almost 40% of its natural gas supply. Plus, understanding this week’s stock market boomerang. And making babies in outer space. Guests: Axios' Ben Geman, Matt Phillips and Miriam Kramer. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

This year's midterms could see a big slate of extreme candidates. At least 19 House districts in 12 states across the U.S. with hyper-partisan districts won't have incumbents - setting the stage for heavily partisan candidates. Plus, the US orders diplomats’ families out of Ukraine. And, 3D printing for cars. Guests: Axios' Stef Kight, Dave Lawler and Joann Muller. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

As year two of his term begins, President Biden has been busy doing cleanup after a two-hour press conference this week. His remarks caused international alarm and exacerbated divisions within the Democratic party. The big question now is can he hold onto allies as he fights battles at home and abroad? Plus, Burned out healthcare workers, looking for hope. And, could robo umpires be coming to major league baseball? Guests: Axios' Glen Johnson, Margaret Talev and Kendall Baker. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Erica Pandey, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The Biden Administration announced yesterday it will distribute 400 million free N95 masks to the public, starting next week. They’ll be available at pharmacies and community health centers. Officials say it’s the largest deployment of personal protective equipment in US history. Plus, IRS chaos makes for a messy tax season. And, looming antitrust scrutiny for Microsoft. Guests: Dr. Leana Wen, emergency physician, former Baltimore health commissioner, and professor of health policy and management at George Washington University; and Axios' Emily Peck and Ina Fried. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Erica Pandey, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Today, Secretary of State Tony Blinken is in Kiev to meet with the president of Ukraine. Time is running out to find a way to deescalate the conflict with Russia. Plus, the U.S. government tries to fill thousands of new tech jobs. And, the surprising cities with the fastest job growth. Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Margaret Harding McGill, and Erica Pandey. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Erica Pandey, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Starting tomorrow, Americans will be able to order free rapid at-home Covid tests online at covidtests.gov. What should we expect from the Biden administration’s latest testing effort? Plus, the big push to ban books. And, retailers turn to tech to solve the worker shortage. Guests: Julie Rovner, chief Washington correspondent for Kaiser Health News and host of the What the Health? podcast; and Axios' Russell Contreras and Erica Pandey. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

President Biden hasn’t been seeing a lot of wins, lately. We’re almost a year into Biden’s presidency, and he’s in a rare position, with Republicans, moderate and liberal Democrats all at odds with his agenda. Plus, curbing carbon emissions by changing how planes land. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Margaret Talev, and Andrew Freedman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

New numbers show prices rose faster within 2021 than they have in the last 40 years. Inflation hit 7% in December. Plus, schools are trying to cope with a shortage of bus drivers. And, Omicron and at-home COVID tests. Guests: Axios' Neil Irwin and Alissa Widman Neese; and Dr. Jennifer Nuzzo, epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

President Joe Biden yesterday made a forceful call for voting rights protections to pass Congress, and for a change to Senate rules to make it possible. Plus, tracking COVID through wastewater. And, China says it’s loosening its grip on the internet at the winter Olympics. Guests: Axios' Margaret Talev, Jason Clayworth, and Ina Fried. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

COVID case numbers have been breaking records in the last few weeks here in the U.S., but deaths and hospitalizations are largely down. So that got us thinking: how useful are case counts actually in understanding where we are in the pandemic? Plus, the healthcare worker shortage, by the numbers. And, why the James Webb Space Telescope is such a big deal. Guests: Dr. Jennifer Nuzzo, epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative; Axios' Tina Reed and Miriam Kramer. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

This morning, students in Chicago public schools are starting their fourth day with no classes. The teachers union, the school district, and Mayor Lori Lightfoot remain in a standoff over whether or not to conduct classes in person for the country's third largest school district. Plus, Russia’s growing sphere of influence. And, a judge’s striking sentencing in Georgia. Guests: Axios' Monica Eng, and Dave Lawler. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

In Colorado, the cleanup continues from the the devastating Marshall Fire that started last week. And as of now, the blaze that destroyed hundreds of homes is fully contained, but many residents are still a long way from recovery, after the most destructive fire in the state’s history. Plus, Jonathan Swan on the state of the GOP one year after the Jan. 6 attacks. And, we’ll be covering healthcare worker burnout, so we’re asking for your stories. Guests: Dr. Natasha Stavros, fire scientist at the University of Colorado and Axios' Jonathan Swan. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

When rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, Axios congressional reporter Alayna Treene was in the heart of it. Today, she reflects back. Plus, why the era of easy money is probably over. And, Tesla opens a showroom in a controversial region of China. Guests: Axios' Alayna Treene, Neil Irwin and Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

We’re at a unique moment when it comes to wages and the labor market. Historic numbers of U.S. workers in lower wage sectors like leisure and hospitality are quitting. And that's part of why we’re on the path to a record number of wage increases across the country as we head into 2022. Plus, the pulse of the nation ahead of January 6th. And, backlash against the term Latinx. Guests: Axios' Oriana Gonzalez, Margaret Talev, and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

It's been almost a year since supporters of former President Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol and tried to overturn the results of the presidential election. Since then, federal prosecutors have charged more than 700 people in connection with the deadly insurrection. We catch you up quick on where things stand now with both the Congressional and federal investigations. Plus, wireless providers vs. the FAA over 5G. And, Florida’s record breaking covid case count. Guests: Axios' Andrew Solender, Selene San Felice and Margaret Harding McGill. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Students across the country are going back to school this week as the Omicron COVID variant surges. But many districts -- like Atlanta, DC and Cleveland -- have already delayed their in-person returns, as districts ramp up testing requirements. Plus, many surprise out-of-network medical bills are now illegal. And, how the extended freeze on federal student loan payments is affecting borrowers. Guests: Dr. Celine Gounder, clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases at New York University’s School of Medicine and the host of the Epidemic podcast, and Axios' Bob Herman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

We wrap up 2021 with three of our favorite Axios political voices: co-founder Mike Allen, managing editor for politics Margaret Talev, and political reporter Alexi McCammond. Plus, your best moments of 2021. Guests: Axios co-founder Mike Allen, Axios managing editor for politics Margaret Talev, and Axios political reporter Alexi McCammond. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Jayk Cherry, Ben O'Brien and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The U.S. economy dominated so much of the news in 2021. Just this week we learned that wholesale inflation in November rose at a record rate from a year ago. Axios' Courtenay Brown wraps up the year in economic news, and looks ahead to the new year. Plus, how one church in Mayfield, Kentucky is helping its neighbors with tornado recovery. And, tips on managing mental health this winter. Guests: Dr. Jessica Stern, clinical psychologist and clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health; Minister Tyler Alverson of Seven Oaks Church of Christ in Mayfield, KY; Axios' Courtenay Brown. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

There’s been a breakthrough in the push to punish the Chinese government for genocide against Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities. A new piece of bipartisan legislation is expected to end up on President Biden’s desk. Plus, pro sports braces for Omicron. And, the impact of Black Lives Matter over the last 18 months. Guests: Axios' Zach Basu, Jeff Tracy and Russ Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Jayk Cherry, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go Deeper: White House says Biden will sign Uyghur forced labor bill Omicron threatens to massively disrupt sports world The slow wheels of justice

Yesterday was a historic day in the Middle East. The Israeli prime minister, Naftali Bennett, met the de facto leader of the United Arab Emirates, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed during the first ever official visit to the UAE from Israel. This took place 15 months after the Abraham Accords, the biggest breakthrough in Middle East Peace in a quarter century, normalized diplomatic relations between Israel, the UAE and three other Arab countries. And, the creator economy boomed in 2021. Plus, federal student loans are coming back. Guests: Axios' Barak Ravid and Sara Fischer. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Jayk Cherry, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The death toll continues to rise in Kentucky after devastating tornadoes touch down in the state Friday night. More than 80 people are confirmed dead and scores more injured. Some of the worst damage and the highest toll may be in southwestern Kentucky, but at least two dozen tornadoes were on the ground across six different states. Towns have been flattened and infrastructure devastated. Ten of thousands are without electricity and temperatures have been hovering around freezing. And, what we learned about living with COVID this year. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman and Sam Baker. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Jayk Cherry, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

It’s been 566 days since George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer. His death spurred millions of people across the globe to protest in support of Black lives. We examine the impact in three locations: United Kingdom, Mexico and Nigeria. Guests: Aba Amoah, co-founder of Justice for Black Lives, Alice Krozer, professor at the Center for Sociological Research at the College of Mexico and Chika Okeke-Agulu, director of the African studies program at Princeton University and professor of art and archeology. Credits: "Axios Today" is brought to you by Axios and Pushkin Industries. This episode was produced by Nuria Marquez Martinez and edited by Alexandra Botti. Alex Sugiura is our sound engineer. Julia Redpath is our executive producer. Special thanks to editor-in-chief Sara Kehaulani Goo.

This week has been all about President Biden taking on Russia and China. The president had a two-hour-long call with Vladmir Putin about Ukraine. Earlier in the week the U.S. announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in China. And this all against the backdrop of President Biden’s Summit for Democracy this week. Plus, the U.S. starts denying some Afghan immigrant applications. And, how AI could end foreign-language subtitles Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Sophia Cai and Bryan Walsh. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Michael Hanf, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, came to Capitol Hill yesterday with a message for Senators: his company could and will do better in protecting teens. He was defending the social media app from growing bipartisan backlash over its reported potential harmful impact on teens, especially young girls. Plus, creating a haven for abortions in California. And, a new zero carbon emissions goal for the federal government. Guests: Axios' Margaret Harding McGill, Oriana Gonzalez, and Ben Geman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Michael Hanf, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Today marks two years to the day since a mysterious new virus was discovered in Wuhan, China. That of course was soon dubbed SARS-CoV-2, and fast forward to today, we are grappling with the latest variant and another pandemic winter. We delve into the latest Axios-Ipsos poll that shows the nuance behind how tired Americans are with the pandemic, and what they want governments or businesses to do about it. Plus, why newspapers nationwide are suing big tech. And, where's the jet stream? Surprising December weather from coast to coast. Guests: Axios' David Nather, Kristal Dixon, and Andrew Freedman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Lydia McMullen-Laird and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Americans spend hundreds of billions on prescription drugs each year. In fact, about $370 billion as of 2019. And employers in charge of healthcare plans paid for about $166 billion of that. It's middleman firms, which actually negotiate these drug prices on behalf of employers. But because they keep their data secret, companies have no idea whether they're getting a fair deal on drug prices or not. And an Axios investigation shows these intermediaries are working hard to keep it that way. Plus, the Department of Justice sues Texas over voting rights And, eating out could soon mean more encounters with robots Guests: Axios' Ben Herman and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Michael Hanf, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Editor's note: This conversation was updated to correct an error. The Supreme Court conservative majority is 6-3 (not 6-4).

The investigation continues into last week’s shooting at a Michigan high school. Over the weekend, the parents of the 15-year-old suspect who shot and killed four of his classmates and injured seven others were charged with involuntary manslaughter for their role in the deaths. Now the school’s culpability is in question. Plus, new data could shed light on the Omicron variant. And, the U.S. reacts to Russian plans to invade Ukraine. Guests: Catherine J. Ross, law professor at George Washington University, and Axios' Jonathan Swan. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The Biden administration has reached a deal with Mexico to restart the Trump-era “Remain in Mexico” program, also known as the Migrant Protection Protocol at the border. Starting Monday, asylum seekers will once again have to wait outside the US while their claims are processed. Plus, Mike Allen wraps up the week in politics. And, the new trend of IV treatments at spas. Guests: Axios' Stef Kight, Mike Allen and Jennifer Kingson. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in a challenge to Mississippi’s law that bans abortion after the 15th week of pregnancy. It’s the most significant abortion case in years and a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade. Plus, Stacey Abrams announces a run for Georgia governor in 2022. And, putting high gas prices in perspective. Guests: Harvard University constitutional law professor Noah Feldman and Axios' Emma Hurt and Ben Geman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

The World Health Organization yesterday advised people 60 or older to postpone any travel because of the new Covid-19 variant, Omicron. The new strain was first identified in South Africa and may have originated there or Botswana, which has led to many countries—including the US—banning travelers from that part of the world. Plus, what Congress has to do this month. And, ER doctors’ role in prescribing drugs to prevent opioid overdoses. Guests: Axios' Bryan Walsh and Alayna Treene; Dr. Keith Kocher, emergency physician at University of Michigan Health in Ann Arbor. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, Michael Hanf, and David Toledo. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Axios' Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian found Airbnb has more than a dozen homes available for rent in China's Xinjiang region, on land owned by the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, an organization sanctioned by the U.S. for complicity in genocide and forced labor. Plus, the new lure of "buy now, pay later" online. And, on this Giving Tuesday - how one CEO views philanthropy. Guests: Axios' Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian and Erica Pandey; and CAVA CEO Brett Shulman. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

This Thanksgiving weekend many in the world were reacting to the latest, heavily-mutated Covid-19 variant first detected in Botswana. On Friday, the World Health Organization called the new strain - Omicron - a variant of concern. There’s a lot we don’t know about this new strain, even as countries around the world are scrambling to get ahead of it with travel bans. But last night, Canada confirmed the first two North American cases of the variant in Ontario. Plus, how streaming and social media are changing legal outcomes. And, an alarm bell on American democracy. Guests: Dr. Namandje N. Bumpus, Director of the Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences at Johns Hopkins Medicine; and Axios' Sara Fischer and Dave Lawler. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

On this holiday, we've got One Big Thing: what the Axios Today team is thankful for and why. Spend a few minutes with us for our bonus Thanksgiving episode! Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed - a Nobel Peace Prize winning politician - has said he’ll lead troops who are fighting rebels in the Tigray region of the country in what he’s calling "the final fight" to save Ethopia. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is warning of a potential humanitarian crisis there that could destabilize the entire region. Plus, the rise of vegan Thanksgiving. And, the story of the first Thanksgiving - 1200 miles south of Plymouth, Massachusetts. Guests: Axios' Zach Basu, Ben Montgomery and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, COVID cases in the U.S. are rising in most states and across the country as a whole: by 20 percent over the past two weeks. That has us asking what role testing is going to play in keeping ourselves and our families safe for the holidays. Plus, Jerome Powell is nominated for a second term to lead the Fed. And, why some cities are giving Universal Basic Mobility a try. Guests: Dr. Leana Wen, emergency physician, former Baltimore health commissioner, and professor of health policy and management at George Washington University; and Axios' Courtenay Brown and Bryan Walsh. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Closing arguments are expected to begin today in the murder trial of Travis and Gregory McMichael and William Bryan, the three men accused of killing Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick, Georgia. This comes just a few days after Kyle Rittenhouse was found not guilty in the fatal shooting of two people at demonstrations in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Though the cases are unfolding in two different parts of the country, they have something in common: all the defendants claim self-defense. Plus, election officials are already preparing for next year’s midterms. And, why you shouldn’t have a problem buying that Thanksgiving turkey. Guests: Caroline Light, author of the book “Stand Your Ground: A History of America’s Love Affair with Lethal Self-Defense;” and Axios' Sarah Mucha and Erica Pandey. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Ben O'Brien. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go deeper: Jacob Blake's father speaks out after Rittenhouse verdict The midterm voting test Don't worry, you'll get your turkey

In our latest installment of the Hard Truths series examining systemic racism in the U.S., we look at the renewed push to diversify children’s TV shows. Guests: Axios reporter Oriana Gonzalez. Credits: “Axios Today” is brought to you by Axios and Pushkin Industries. This episode was produced by Nuria Marquez Martinez and edited by Alexandra Botti. Jeanne Montalvo is our sound engineer. Julia Redpath is our executive producer. Special thanks to editor-in-chief Sara Kehaulani Goo

The FDA is likely to sign off shortly on the Pfizer booster shot for everyone 18 and over, but many cities and states like New York City and California have already made boosters available to all adults. We look at what we do and don't know about who should get boosters and what kind is best. Plus, President Biden meets with his North American counterparts. And, the growing global reach of Mexican food. Guests: Dr. Namandje N. Bumpus, Director of the Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences at Johns Hopkins Medicine; and Axios' Dave Lawler and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

More than 100,000 people died of an overdose in the 12 month period ending in April of this year, according to CDC data. Plus, the House issues a rare censure of a Republican lawmaker. And, a debate in Washington over who authorizes military force. Guests: Andrew Kolodny, medical director for opioid policy research at Brandeis University and Axios' Glen Johnson and Alayna Treene. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.

Tensions are rising in Eastern Europe, on the border between Belarus and Poland. Yesterday, Polish police began using water cannons and tear gas against people trying to cross into the country. For weeks now, thousands of migrants from Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan have been waiting at the border in an attempt to enter the European Union, in what EU leaders are calling a manufactured crisis. Plus, the latest on treating COVID with a pill. And, the International Olympic Committee takes on gender identity. Guests: Axios' Zach Basu, Tina Reed, and Ina Fried. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Julia Redpath, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Alex Sugiura, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, David Toledo and Jayk Cherry. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.