1 big thing

Here in the U.S., the COVID vaccine conversation has mostly been focused on Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J. But with Delta’s strong hold on much of the U.S., Axios’ health care business reporter Bob Herman reports that we should be paying attention to other emerging vaccines. Plus, Mexico moves to decriminalize abortion. And, Latino voters’ role in deciding the fate of California Governor Gavin Newsom. Guests: Telemundo Noticias' Marina Franco, Axios' Bob Herman and Russell Contreras. 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, 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 a turbulent political summer, most recently with the Texas abortion ban that dominated headlines last week. As summer ends, a host of crises are putting roadblocks before President Biden and his agenda for the fall. Plus, Afghan refugees at the mercy of an overwhelmed immigration system. And, the new growth of organized labor in the U.S. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Stef Kight, and Dan Primack. 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, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: DOJ vows to "protect" abortion seekers, providers in Texas The labor movement is showing signs of life

Natural disasters punished the country this week. There’s been devastating flooding in Louisiana and the New York region, alongside wildfires in California and Nevada. Plus, how Texas could affect abortion laws in other states. And, inside the first all-civilian space flight. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman, Oriana González, Miriam Kramer, and Nick Halter. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Hope King, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, 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.

Firefighters in Northern California have been working to halt the aggressive Caldor Fire, one of 13 large fires burning in the state, and one which has displaced tens of thousands of people. Climate change plus decades of decisions around land management are partly to blame. Plus, police accountability in Colorado. And, the new 'Shang-Chi', Marvel’s first Asian American-led movie. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman and John Frank. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Hope King, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Lydia McMullen-Laird, 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: California's Caldor Fire nears South Lake Tahoe: What you need to know 3 officers, 2 paramedics charged in connection with death of Elijah McClain

The ongoing battle among local, state and federal officials over COVID precautions in schools continues. The US Department of Education has now launched a civil rights investigation into five GOP-led states that have banned mask mandates in schools. Plus, the return of evictions in America. And, Amazon steps into the live audio business. Guests: Axios' Ben Montgomery, Linh Ta, Felix Salmon, and Sara Fischer. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Hope King, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, 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: Florida school districts face mask free-for-all after judge strikes down DeSantis' ban U.S. Education Department launches probe into Iowa's mask mandate ban The return of evictions Scoop: Amazon quietly building live audio business

Today was President Biden’s deadline for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. After two decades of war, the final US plane left Kabul yesterday afternoon. Plus, Biden waives ethics rules for top officials. And, one reverend’s fight against a Texas abortion ban. Guests: Senior minister of First Unitarian Church in Dallas Daniel Kanter, Axios' Dave Lawler and Lachlan Markay. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: What Taliban rule will look like in the new old Afghanistan Revealed: Biden's ethics exceptions Texas ban on second-trimester abortion procedure upheld by appeals court

Hurricane Ida made landfall in Port Fourchon, Louisiana yesterday afternoon. Just shy of a category five storm, it’s one of the strongest hurricanes to hit the state in recorded history. It also hit on the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina which ravaged the state and the city of New Orleans. Plus, ambulance wait times are skyrocketing. And, Silicon Valley’s biggest fraud on trial. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman, Marisa Fernandez, and Kia Kokalitcheva. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: "Extremely dangerous" Hurricane Ida lashes Louisiana coast As hospitals fill, more ambulances forced to wait Silicon Valley's biggest fraud is on trial Biden pays respect to fallen service members at Dover AFB

Two explosions at the Kabul airport yesterday left at least 100 people dead -- including 13 U.S. service members -- and 150 more wounded. The blasts came from at least two suicide bombers, and The Islamic State has claimed responsibility. Plus, the last marine to escape Saigon in 1975 on the evacuation crisis in Afghanistan. And, the rising role of women in the gig economy. Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler and Russell Contreras. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: Biden promises retaliation for attacks in Kabul The last Marine in Saigon on Afghanistan The rise of women in the gig economy

In the middle of messy evacuations from Afghanistan and just before a meeting with the Israeli prime minister, President Biden yesterday held a cybersecurity summit with tech and business leaders at the White House. Arvind Krishna, the chairman and chief executive officer of IBM, was one of them. Plus, retailers tackle the shipping crisis And, Afghanistan’s all-women robotics team flees Kabul and talks to us from Mexico City about what’s next Guests: Arvind Krishna, chairman and CEO of IBM; members of The Afghan Dreamers; Axios' Courtenay Brown Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Margaret Talev, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Lydia McMullen-Laird, 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 us as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go deeper: Shipping mania flashpoint: Retailers charter boats

President Biden yesterday confirmed the US is on track to get US troops and allies out of Afghanistan by August 31st. This is despite calls from other world leaders - like British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and French president Emmanuel Macron - to extend the timeline. Plus, the first airline CEO to mandate employee COVID vaccines...hopes others will follow suit. And, fallout from the popular site OnlyFans ban of explicit content. Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Joann Muller, and Dan Primack. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Margaret Talev, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, 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 us as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893. Go deeper: Biden told G7 allies U.S. still plans to get out of Kabul by Aug. 31 Sex workers sound off on OnlyFans ban

The FDA yesterday granted full approval to the Pfizer BioNTech COVID vaccine. Will it convince more people to get vaccinated? The answer to that question will be especially important in states with low vaccination rates and surging hospitalizations, like Alabama. That state is currently one of the hardest hit by COVID in the nation. Plus, FDA approval of the Pfizer vaccine raises questions about young kids. And, dire conditions in Qatar for evacuees from Afghanistan. Guests: Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris, Axios' Tina Reed and Jonathan Swan. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: FDA grants full approval to Pfizer's COVID vaccine Record 29 out LGBTQ athletes set to compete in Tokyo Paralympics

President Biden spoke yesterday afternoon to the American people, again defending his withdrawal from Afghanistan, and saying the exit could take longer than planned. Plus, images out of Kabul are being put to political use. And, a new push to make the outdoors safer for people of color. Guests: Axios' Glen Johnson, Lachlan Markay, and Russell Contreras. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Margaret Talev, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: Sources: No Biden firings GOP ad-makers jump on Afghan footage Making the outdoors safe for people of color

On our latest installment of our Hard Truths series, we look at how the process to get tenure at many universities in the U.S. is shutting out academics of color. Guests: Paul Harris, associate professor of education at Pennsylvania State University, and Patricia Matthew, associate professor of English at Montclair State University and editor of Written/Unwritten: Diversity and the Hidden Truths of Tenure 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. Dan Bobkoff is our executive producer. Special thanks to executive editor Sara Kehaulani Goo, Hard Truths editor Michele Salcedo and managing editor for business Aja Whitacker-Moore.

It’s an interesting moment for president Biden right now, as the American public reacts to his decisions around Afghanistan, alongside his handling of the Delta variant surge and the economic impacts of COVID. And while it’s hard to say exactly where American opinions fall right now - polling shows the approval ratings honeymoon is over for President Biden. Plus, the view on the ground from Haiti. And, the case for holiday shopping - now. Guests: The Miami Herald's Jacquline Charles, Axios' Margaret Talev and Linh Ta. 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, 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 four days since the Taliban took over the capital city of Kabul and declared victory in Afghanistan. In the past few days, we’ve seen shocking images of people clinging to planes at the Kabul airport trying to get out of the country. Plus, consumer spending isn’t deterred yet by the Delta variant. And, Facebook claims vaccine hesitancy is on the decline. Guests: Truman Center for National Policy's Camille Mackler, Axios' Sam Ro and Ina Fried. 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, 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, President Biden is expected to announce his administration’s recommendation for a third dose for all vaccinated Americans. This follows the CDC and FDA approval last week of a third shot for those who are immunocompromised. But a "third dose" and a "booster" can refer to different things. Plus, what the new school year looks like for parents across America. And, companies address employee mental health. Guests: Axios' Tina Reed, Erica Pandey, Russ Contreras, and Margaret Talev 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, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: Boosters take off COVID cases in kids are rising just as schools are coming back Mental health is the next big workplace issue

President Biden addressed the nation yesterday about the situation in Afghanistan, after the Taliban seized control and declared that “the war is over.” The Pentagon estimates approximately 6,000 U.S. troops will assist with the evacuation of American personnel in Afghanistan. Plus, a new kind of back-to-school. And, understanding plans for new construction in the occupied West Bank. Guests: LA Times' Melissa Gomez, Axios' Hans Nichols and Barak Ravid. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: Afghanistan falls Israel to approve new construction in West Bank for both settlers and Palestinians

The Taliban have declared victory in Afghanistan this morning. The group took control of Kabul yesterday, 20 years after they had been run out of the capital city by US-led forces. President Biden has authorized sending 5,000 troops to Afghanistan to help with evacuation. Plus, the Haitian diaspora rushes to help after a deadly earthquake. And, a repeat COVID milestone we didn’t want. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen and Family Action Network Movement's Marleine Bastien. 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, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: U.S. completes evacuation from American embassy in Kabul Haiti earthquake death toll rises to 1,297 Fauci: It's "likely" everybody will need a booster shot at some point

Florida’s COVID-19 rates are worse than they have ever been. The state now makes up almost 20 percent of the entire caseload in the country. Meanwhile in Texas, as of Tuesday there were just 368 ICU beds available across the state. These two states are becoming heated battlegrounds over the way forward. Plus, Afghanistan’s security situation collapses. And, a Palestinian-American sprinter on her unlikely Olympic journey. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Oriana González, and Glen Johnson; Olympic sprinter Hanna Barakat 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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.

Yesterday, California became the first state to require all teachers and school staff to get vaccinated or get tested weekly for COVID. In other states, like Texas and Florida, school districts are fighting state and local government to implement mask mandates for students. All of this is happening as students are starting to go back to in-person schooling and as pediatric COVID hospitalizations are on the rise. Plus, the Delta variant is catching up with air travel. And, calls for better conditions for migrant teens in U.S. custody in Texas. Guests: Axios' Joann Muller, Tina Reed, and Fadel Allassan. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: New COVID restrictions could slow air travel Pediatric COVID hospitalizations soar Lawsuit: Migrant teens in U.S. custody face "deplorable conditions" at Texas sites

Yesterday was dominated by political news, with the bipartisan win on infrastructure and Governor Andrew Cuomo's resignation. We get at why they matter with Axios' political team. Guests: Axios' Alayna Treene, Glen Johnson, and Margaret Talev 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: Senate passes $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package Andrew Cuomo resigns as governor of New York

It may seem like the 2022 midterms are far off, but issues like rising crime, border crossings and inflation are already starting to shape political discourse and early campaigns. Plus, the Taliban seizes more cities in Afghanistan. And, why it’s extra easy to get a car loan right now. Guests: Axios' Stef Kight, Dave Lawler, and Courtenay Brown. 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, Sabeena Singhani, 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: GOP gusher Left behind in Afghanistan 1 big thing: Banks loosen up on auto loans

The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released its latest report on climate change this morning. It shows that warming is happening more quickly than we realized, and calls the connection between human activity and global warming “unequivocal.” It's the strongest stance by global scientists on climate we've seen yet. Plus, the pandemic has changed our relationship with trash. And, Ina Fried’s big takeaways from covering the Olympic games. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman, Hope King, and Ina Fried. 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, Sabeena Singhani, and Michael Hanf. 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: Dixie Fire now 3rd largest wildfire in California history Low-waste economy hits its groove Axios at the Olympics: Tokyo Games close with a flourish

The CDC has called the HIV outbreak in Kanawha county the most concerning HIV outbreak in the entire U.S. associated with injection drug use. This week, the CDC issued a report on how to manage this outbreak, but their recommendations are almost impossible to implement because of current local laws. Plus, Biden gets tough with GOP governors on COVID. And, lab-grown salmon coming to a sushi bar near you. Guests: Mountain State Spotlight’s Lauren Peace and Axios' Margaret Talev and Bryan Walsh. 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, 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 is close to meeting its accelerated deadline for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. But it's leaving behind thousands of translators and interpreters who are waiting for special immigrant visas designated for people who worked with US troops. Najib is one of those translators in limbo. Plus, the Mexican government sues U.S. gunmakers. And, vaccine passports come to New York City. Guests: Afghan translator, Najib; Telemundo and Axios' Marina Franco; Axios' Tina Reed and Ina Fried. 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, 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.

Four officers who responded to the Capitol insurrection on January 6th have now died by suicide. The news of the most recent two deaths came this week. Officer Gunther Hashida, Officer Kyle DeFreytag, Officer Howie Liebengood , and Officer Jeffrey Smith were among those who fought to defend the Capitol that day. Plus, we can’t just blame social media for misinformation. And, lab-grown salmon coming to a sushi bar near you. Guests: Chief Operating Officer of First HELP Steve Hough, Axios' Sara Fischer and Alayna Treene. 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, 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 federal eviction moratorium expired this past weekend, putting an estimated 4 million people — or more — at risk of getting kicked out of their homes. Plus, a rare moment of discord between Democratic leaders and the president. And, openly trans and non-binary athletes make their mark in Tokyo. Guests: Axios' Danielle Chemtob, Jonathan Swan, and Ina Fried. 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, 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.

You may have seen the very scary headlines this weekend about the COVID-19 Delta variant. One of those was out of Florida, which hit the highest number of new COVID cases since the pandemic began. And last Wednesday Texas reported more than 10,000 new COVID cases, its highest total for a single day since February. In D.C., the indoor mask mandate for those vaccinated went back into effect, as it did for many other parts of the country. Plus, the Biden administration’s messy COVID messaging. And, why the pandemic means less long-distance romance. Guests: Julie Rovner, Kaiser Health News' Chief Washington Correspondent and host of What the Health podcast, and Axios' Erica Pandey. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Alex Sugiura, and Michael Hanf. 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: Fauci: New lockdowns unlikely despite surge in Delta cases Biden's quick-trigger COVID problem The end of long-distance relationships

Yesterday in Tokyo, gymnast Sunisa Lee became the sixth U.S. woman to win an Olympic all-around gold. She’s the first Hmong American to not only win but compete at the Olympics. Plus, how climate fares in the infrastructure deal. And, U.S. GDP growth falls short of expectations. Guests: Kare 11 News anchor Gia Wang, Axios' Ben Geman and Courtenay Brown. 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, 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.

From Portland to New Orleans, heat watches, warnings, and advisories are in effect across 19 states. It’s just the latest in a series of extreme heat waves, floods and wildfires across the world that have been made worse by the ongoing climate crisis. How should we be thinking about how to solve all of these climate calamities? Plus, what it takes to put up a monument. And, U.S. Women win gold at the Olympics. Guests: Author of Ida B. The Queen, Michelle Duster, Axios' Andrew Freedman, and Ina Fried. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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.

Yesterday the House committee investigating the January 6th attack on the Capitol held its first hearing. Four officers shared difficult testimony about the physical and verbal assaults they endured while responding to the riot. Plus, the pandemic’s latest turning point. And, the youngest victims of Myanmar’s military coup. Guests: Axios' Margaret Talev, Dave Lawler, and Ina Fried. 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, 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.

Yesterday, the Department of Veterans Affairs became the first federal agency to require its employees to be vaccinated. The news came as officials from New York City and the state of California announced similar mandates for their workers. Plus, tempering expectations for the January 6 committee. And, what COVID-19 taught us about friendships. Guests: Axios' Caitlin Owens, Alayna Treene, Mike Allen, Ina Fried, and author of Friends Forever, Suzanne Degges-White. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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 recent protests in Cuba were driven largely by food shortages and prices. But it’s not just Cuba. About a tenth of the world’s population was undernourished in 2020 as world hunger hit a 15-year high. That’s according to a recent report by the United Nations that outlined how the pandemic has reversed years of progress in global malnutrition. Plus, American journalism divided. And, the standout Olympic stars from Team USA. Guests: Axios' Bryan Walsh, Sara Fischer and Kendall Baker. 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, 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.

For Americans, the Tokyo Olympics will be a test of what patriotism looks like in 2021. Axios and our partners at Momentive have polled more than 5,000 people on their feelings about the U.S. and other countries at the Games. Plus, the scope of the opioid epidemic. And, the Delta variant grips Capitol Hill Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Bob Herman, and Sarah Mucha. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Margaret, Talev, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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.

Back in June, the House of Representatives passed a resolution launching a special committee to investigate the January 6th insurrection on the Capitol. Minority leader Kevin McCarthy could choose five committee members, but Speaker Nancy Pelosi would have veto power and the final say. On Wednesday, Pelosi rejected two of McCarthy’s appointees, saying they could have “an impact on the integrity of the investigation.” Plus, an eerie first Olympic dispatch from Tokyo. And, why some rural Democrats are running against their own national party’s image. Guests: Axios' Alayna Treene, Ina Fried, and Alexi McCammond. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: McCarthy pulls Republicans from Jan. 6 select committee after Pelosi rejects picks Olympic soccer players take a knee against racism Swing Country: Rural Dems run from party

As the Delta variant spreads and covid safety measures loosen across much of the country, many are starting to think about the fall and how kids will stay safe when they return to crowded classrooms. Plus, finding housing for reunited migrant families. And, fallout from the world’s first atomic bomb. Guests: Axios' Marisa Fernandez, Stef Kight, and Russell Contreras. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: Delta variant now makes up 83% of U.S. COVID cases, CDC director says Latinos still coping with the fallout of 1st nuclear explosion

Companies spend hundreds of millions of dollars to be sponsors at the Olympic games -- an investment that can mean big returns. But this year the pandemic has put sponsors in a very tight spot. Plus, GOP leaders fight for a say in blue cities. And, the Delta variant in the U.S. -- by the numbers. Guests: Axios' Hope King, Danielle Chemtob, and Sam Baker. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: Olympics to miss the mark for many sponsors “Burn the ships”: Tariq Bokhari wants the GOP to take back Charlotte "A pandemic of the unvaccinated"

The flood waters in Germany and Belgium have started receding with more than 180 people dead. It’s the worst flooding the region has seen in decades and comes on top of a worsening COVID outbreak throughout Europe. Plus, why car prices are driving inflation. And, retailers turn to facial recognition technology. Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Kim Hart and Felix Salmon. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: At least 184 people dead after devastating European floods Facial recognition surges in retail stores Why cars are driving inflation

On our latest installment of our Hard Truths series, we go inside the fight to build a $2.4 billion telescope on the highest mountaintop in Hawai'i. For astronomers it would mean the chance to answer deep questions about the universe. But for indigenous Hawai'ians, it would mean the desecration of sacred land. Guests: Aurora Kagawa-Viviani, post-doctoral researcher and scientist at UH-Hilo Hawaii Cooperative studies unit at the University of Hawai'i Hilo and Axios' Miriam Kramer. 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. Dan Bobkoff is our executive producer. Special thanks to Axios space editor Miriam Kramer, Executive Editor Sara Kehaulani Goo, and Hard Truths Editor Michele Salcedo.

Remember Parler? Well that alternative social media platform is not the only one. MeWe is another social media network hoping to gain traction with users who feel they’ve been censored by Facebook. Plus, new challenges to democracy at home and overseas. And, why a fight over a telescope in Hawaii is more than science vs. culture. Guests: Axios' Mike Allen, Sara Fischer, and Miriam Kramer. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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 marks the start of the Biden Administration’s Enhanced Child Tax Credit program, meaning millions of American families can soon expect payments deposited in their bank accounts. What is it and what do you need to know? Plus, Jamaica will demand reparations from Britain over slavery. And, why parts of the Amazon are emitting more carbon than they’re absorbing. Guests: Axios' Hans Nichols and Andrew Freedman, and How to Be an Antiracist's Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Justin, Kaufmann, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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.

Cuban activists are saying more than 100 people are missing or have been arrested during recent protests on the island over economic conditions. The protests are the largest in decades. Plus, the growing debate over COVID booster shots. And, Texas lawmakers flee the state. Guests: Telemundo News' Marina Franco, Axios' Caitlin Owens and Stef Kight. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Justin Kaufmann, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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 the ever-famous shark week on the Discovery Channel this week -- but if we’re talking about deadly animals, did you know that deer are actually the deadliest in America? They’re the cause of death for about 200 Americans a year in collisions with cars - and another 30,000 are injured. Plus, an update on Haiti. And, the MLB All-Star Game shot in the arm for Denver. Guests: The Miami Herald's Jacqueline Charles, Axios' Felix Salmon and John Frank. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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.

Stories of how extreme heat and wildfires are affecting communities are pouring out of the Western U.S. and Canada. One that caught our eye is out of Oregon, where a wildfire is threatening power grid lines in North California. This comes as the power grid is stretched thin across much of the country Plus, migration trends between the U.S. and Mexico are flipping. And, how self-driving car technology can be used for wheelchairs. Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman, Stef Kight and Joann Muller. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Justin Kaufmann, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. Go deeper: Heat wave engulfs the West as Death Valley hits 130 degrees Migration trends between the U.S. and Mexico have flipped upside down Wheelchairs get the Tesla treatment with new smart tech

There have been lots of headlines this year about the rise in gun violence. And some of that is true - more than 180 people were killed in shootings across the country over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Plus, a swift exit from Afghanistan. And, how Ohio's influencing the national Republican conversation. Guests: The Guardian's Abene Clayton and Axios' Mike Allen. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Justin Kaufmann, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected].

Last Monday, Tucker Carlson went in front of his several million viewers and made an extraordinary accusation: that the NSA was spying on his emails. The NSA issued a rare, public denial that Carlson had been targeted. Plus, turmoil in Haiti. And, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi on the unfair expectations placed on athletes. Guests: Axios' Dave Lawler, Jonathan Swan, and How to Be an Antiracist's Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Credits: Axios Today is produced in partnership with Pushkin Industries. The team includes Niala Boodhoo, Sara Kehaulani Goo, Dan Bobkoff, Alexandra Botti, Justin Kaufmann, Nuria Marquez Martinez, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: Scoop: Tucker Carlson sought Putin interview at time of spying claim Haiti President Jovenel Moïse assassinated Controversy ahead of the Olympics

Last week, as much of the country experienced a heat wave, New York City’s Central Park had its hottest day since 2013. And New Yorkers got an alert on their cellphones from the city they'd never seen before: help us conserve energy while the grid is strained. It worked. And, what’s left behind as the U.S. exits Afghanistan. Plus, why the U.S. covid vaccination rate is stuck. Guests: Axios' Zach Basu, Tina Reed, and Bryan Walsh. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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 Olympics are less than three weeks away and over this past weekend we saw three big headlines, all having to do with restrictions that have primarily affected women of color and intersex people. And it’s left many fans wondering who these Olympic rules are actually serving. And, infighting in the Vice President’s office. Plus, Noah Feldman -- and you -- on what freedom means in America now. Guests: Axios' Ina Fried, Margaret Talev and Harvard University constitutional law professor Noah Feldman. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, 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. Go deeper: Namibian female athletes disqualified from Olympics due to naturally high testosterone levels Swimming caps for natural Black hair banned from Tokyo Olympics Biden aide charges "sabotage" of Harris

Today, president Biden will participate in a longstanding presidential tradition: a naturalization ceremony welcoming new U.S. citizens, ahead of the July 4th holiday. Those who’ve most recently become citizens did so at a pretty remarkable time: 2020 and 2021 have included a pandemic, a racial reckoning, an election unlike any other. We hear reflections from four new Americans. Plus, takeaways and surprises from the Supreme Court. And, why some progressives are bypassing Bernie Sanders. Guests: Axios' Sam Baker and Alexi McCammond. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected].

Bill Cosby was released from prison yesterday after the Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned his sexual assault conviction. The justices cited an existing agreement with a prosecutor they said should have barred Cosby from being charged. Plus, missed cancer screenings take a toll. And, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi on overlapping movements for civil rights. Guests: Harvard University constitutional law professor Noah Feldman, Axios' Tina Reed and How to Be an Antiracist's Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. 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, Sabeena Singhani, Amy Pedulla, Naomi Shavin, and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at [email protected]. Go deeper: Bill Cosby released from prison after court overturns conviction Pandemic may drive up cancer cases and exacerbate disparities