
Anderson Cooper 360
1,734 episodes — Page 26 of 35

January 6th rioter joins Republican members of Congress on border trip
As Congress puts together a special committee to investigate the January 6th insurrection, several Republican House members visited the U.S.-Mexico border accompanied by a right-wing YouTube personality who participated in the riot. CNN Senior Political Analyst David Gergen and Former Congressman Denver Riggleman discuss how this could impact Republicans. In Florida, the death toll rises in the condo collapse. And another condo building in a nearby town is evacuated due to unsafe conditions. Plus, CNN’s Randi Kaye reports on a reunion between two Champlain Tower residents. One helped the other get out of the building. And sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson was suspended one month from the U.S. Olympic Track and Field team after testing positive for THC, a chemical found in marijuana. Richardson was poised to be the first American to possibly win the gold medal in the 100-meter women's race since Gail Devers won back in 1996. Devers talks to AC360 about the track star’s punishment. Airdate: July 2, 2021 Guests: David Gergen Former Congressman Denver Riggleman, (R) Virginia Alfredo Lopez Esther Gorfinkel Gail Devers To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump CFO indicted on 15 felony counts, alleged 15-year tax scheme
New York prosecutors charged the Trump Organization and its chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, with an alleged 15-year tax scheme. The Trump Organization CFO was charged with 15 felony counts in connection with the alleged scheme stretching back to 2005 "to compensate Weisselberg and other Trump Organization executives in a manner that was 'off the books.'" Timothy O’Brien is the author of “TrumpNation: The Art of Being the Donald” and a senior columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. He tells AC360 he thinks the “function of this indictment” is to “encourage Allen Weisselberg to flip” against former President Trump. Plus, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden traveled to Surfside, Florida to meet with search and rescue personnel, first responders and some of the families of the victims and the 145 people still accounted for in the deadly condo collapse. Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett joins AC360 to discuss the President’s visit and to give an update on the search and rescue efforts. Airdate: July 1, 2021 Guests: Tim O’Brien Mayor Charles Burkett To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Death toll rises to 18 in condo collapse
At least 18 people are dead and 147 are unaccounted for after a south Florida condo building partially collapsed last week. The Miami-Dade mayor announced that two children, ages 4 and 10 are among the lives lost. Ashley Dean’s sister, Cassondra Stratton, is among the unaccounted for. Cassondra’s husband told the Miami Herald he was on the phone with her when she told him their condo was shaking and a sink hole had opened up where the pool used to be just before the line went dead and the building came crashing down. Dean tells AC360 her sister was “very, very vivacious and she just had a zest for life.” Plus, Bill Cosby has been released from prison after the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania vacated his 2018 conviction on sexual assault charges and judgment of sentence. Patricia Leary Steuer says Cosby assaulted her on two occasions. She joins AC360 to discuss Cosby’s release and says she’s “sad” and “feeling like this is a loss for me and for the other women who came forward.” Airdate: June 30, 2021 Guests: Ashley Dean Patricia Leary Steuer To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

12 dead, 149 unaccounted for in Surfside condo collapse
Six days after the 12-story condo building in Surfside, Florida came crashing down, search and rescue crews continue to comb through the rubble as 149 people are still unaccounted for. Officials announced another confirmed death, bringing the number of fatalities up to 12. A structural engineer from Washington, DC has been called to investigate the collapse. Allyn Kilsheimer was part of the September 11 Pentagon attack investigation, as well as the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in 1995, and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. He walks AC360 through what the investigation will look like. Plus, Sara Nir along with two of her children safely escaped the condo just before it came crashing down. Sara and her daughter Chani join AC360 to describe how they safely escaped and why they first thought it was an earthquake. Airdate: June 29, 2021 Guests: Allyn Kilsheimer Sara and Chani Nir To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Death toll rises to 11 in condo collapse
Authorities say the death toll has risen to eleven after the collapse of a 12-story residential building in Surfside, Florida five days ago. Search and rescue teams are continuing to work around the clock to find the 150 people who are still unaccounted for. Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett tells AC360 his number one priority is “pulling these people out of the rubble.” Plus, the Miami Herald published photos reportedly taken by a pool contractor just 36 hours before the condo building came crashing down. The reporter told CNN the contractor saw cracks in the concrete and rebar in the pool equipment room and wondered why the building hadn’t been maintained better. Asher Cohen is a forensic engineer who evaluates damage to residential and commercial buildings. He joins AC360 to discuss what he sees in the photos and says this did not happen in the past 24 hours or even the past 24 months. Airdate: June 28, 2021 Guests: Mayor Charles Burkett Asher Cohen To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

159 people remain unaccounted for in condo collapse
Anderson Cooper reports from Surfside, Florida as an intense search and rescue effort continues for what could be as many as 159 trapped in the rubble of a collapsed 12-story condo building. Bettina Obias spoke to Anderson. She is hoping her aunt and uncle, Maria and Claudio Bonnefoy, will be rescued. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the dangers rescuers are encountering at the collapse site. Plus, an update from Miami-Dade County officials, who have the latest information about rescue operations. Airdate: June 25, 2021 Guests: Sanjay Gupta Bettina Obias Mayor Daniella Levine Cava To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Miami-Dade Police: 99 people still unaccounted for in condo collapse
An intense search and rescue effort will continue through the night as nearly 100 people remain unaccounted for after a 12-story condo building collapsed in Surfside, Florida. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said at least one person has died and the cause of the collapse is still unknown. Kevin Spiegel’s wife, Judy Spiegel, is one of the missing. He tells Anderson Cooper his family has “a lot of hope that Judy is still alive” and she’s an “amazing person.” Plus, President Biden says “we have a deal” on infrastructure with a bipartisan group of senators. It’s still unclear if the bill will have enough support from GOP senators or progressive lawmakers for it to be signed into law. Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders joins AC360 to discuss what he thinks of the deal. Airdate: June 24, 2021 Guests: Josh Spiegel Sen. Bernie Sanders To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New videos show Capitol rioters attacking police calling them “pigs” and “f***ing traitors”
The Justice Department released six new police body camera and surveillance videos that show rioters harassing and attacking police on January 6 around the Capitol building, even calling them “pigs” and “f***ing traitors.” Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick was injured while physically engaging with the rioters and later died after he collapsed. Sicknick’s life partner, Sandra Garza, and his mother, Gladys Sicknick, join AC360 to react to the new video and the attempt by some members of the GOP to whitewash what happened on January 6. Plus, Republican Sen. Mitt Romney and Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin announced there’s an agreement with White House officials and ten senators on infrastructure. The senators said it’s fully paid for and offsets the new spending. Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy tells Anderson Cooper “we’re going to have to take a deep dive into the agreement that they’ve reached and square it with the needs of our voters.” Airdate: June 23, 2021 Guests: Sandra Garza Gladys Sicknick Sen. Chris Murphy To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Voting rights bill dead after Senate Republicans block it
Senate Republicans blocked a signature Democratic voting and election bill during a key test vote. Democrats were united in favor of the bill after securing support from Sen. Joe Manchin. Democratic Sen. Chris Coons joins AC360 to discuss the vote and says he doesn’t know if “there’s anything we can do to get Republicans on board with protecting access to the ballot with voting rights.” Plus, Dr. Anthony Fauci called the Delta coronavirus variant, the “greatest threat” in the country’s fight against Covid-19. Dr. Paul Offit is the director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He tells Anderson Cooper we aren’t helpless here, “just get vaccinated.” Airdate: June 22, 2021 Guests: Sen. Chris Coons Dr. Paul Offit To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Poll: Most Americans reject validity of 2020 election audits
A new Monmouth University poll suggests most Americans reject Republican efforts to audit states’ 2020 election results and they believe the reviews are an attempt to undermine valid election outcomes. The poll showed that 57% of Americans say they view the audits as “partisan efforts to undermine valid election results.” The problem-ridden audit in Arizona has yet to uncover any evidence suggesting widespread voter fraud. Democratic Secretary of State Katie Hobbs tells there’s “nothing that can be done now to overturn the election” even if the Arizona audit was valid. Plus, as President Joe Biden’s agenda enters a critical week on Capitol Hill ahead of a looming Senate recess, CNN Contributor and staff writer for The New Yorker Evan Osnos joins AC360 to discuss whether Sen. Joe Manchin’s search for common ground could wreck the Democrats’ agenda. Airdate: June 21, 2021 Guests: Katie Hobbs Evan Osnos To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New videos obliterate GOP whitewashing of Capitol riot
Newly released video from January 6 shows a supporter of former President Trump, Scott Fairlamb, taunting, stalking, and punching law enforcement outside the U.S. Capitol. Fairlamb is charged with 12 criminal counts including assaulting police and carrying a dangerous weapon into the Capitol. These videos recently released by the Department of Justice undermine Republican efforts to whitewash the January 6 insurrection. Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego tells Anderson Cooper he doesn’t think these videos will change any of his Republican colleagues’ minds. Plus, despite the Vatican’s warning, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops proceeded with a plan that could deny communion to public figures who support abortion rights, like President Joe Biden. Rev. James Martin said he was very surprised and discouraged by the vote. He joins AC360 to discuss whether or not he thinks the vote was politically motivated. Airdate: June 18, 2021 Guests: Rep. Ruben Gallego Rev. James Martin To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DOJ releases new body camera video of January 6 riot
The Justice Department released horrifying new police body camera video from the Capitol hill insurrection on January 6. The video shows a man, who is being charged with seven federal crimes, screaming profanities at officers, threateningly wielding a flagpole and rushing at officers. Sandra Garza’s life partner, Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, was injured while physically engaging with the rioters and later died after he collapsed. Garza tells Anderson Cooper “this is not loving America.” Plus, Sen. Joe Manchin, a key Democratic vote in a 50-50 Senate, has said he’s opposed to the For the People Act in its current form but released a proposal of his own. His compromises include making Election Day a holiday, banning gerrymandering, mandating at least 15 consecutive days of early voting and instituting a voter ID requirement that includes a utility bill as an alternative. Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar is a co-sponsor of the For the People Act. She joins AC360 to discuss Manchin’s proposed changes. Airdate: June 17, 2021 Guests: Sandra Garza Sen. Amy Klobuchar To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Biden on historic Putin summit: “I did what I came to do”
President Joe Biden said he raised human rights and cyberattacks during a summit with Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Both Biden and Putin said the talks were generally positive but walked away with no major breakthroughs. “I did what I came to do,” Biden said. Fiona Hill is the former senior director for European and Russian Affairs on the National Security Council and was at the infamous meeting between former President Trump and Putin in Helsinki in 2018. She joins AC360 to discuss how Biden’s summit with Putin was compared to Trump’s three years ago. Plus, 21 House Republicans voted no on a bill to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the officers who defended the Capitol on January 6. One of those Congressmen who voted against the legislation was Rep. Paul Gosar, who also referred to the shooting of Capitol rioter Ashli Babbitt as an execution. Jennifer Gosar is Rep. Gosar’s sister and along with her other siblings, has campaigned against her brother. They recently put out an attack ad calling out their brother’s lies about the insurrection. She tells Anderson Cooper it doesn’t surprise her that her brother actively trying to erase what happened on January 6. Airdate: June 16, 2021 Guests: Fiona Hill Jennifer Gosar To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Biden and Putin to meet as relations at lowest point since Cold War
President Joe Biden will meet with Russia’s Vladimir Putin in Geneva, Switzerland on Wednesday and U.S. officials say it could last four to five hours. Biden said he’s going to “make clear to President Putin that there are areas where we can cooperate if he chooses.” A source tells CNN Biden will raise an array of concerns including ransomware and human rights during the summit. The New York Times Foreign Affairs Columnist Thomas Friedman tells Anderson Cooper “our problem is Vladimir Putin has become America’s bad ex-boyfriend from hell” and we would “really like to date someone else.” Plus, the U.S. reached 600,000 Covid-19 deaths as the new, dangerous Delta variant is on the rise. Both New York and California have reopened and dropped most of their restrictions. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy joins AC360 to discuss the grim death toll and just how worried people should be about the Delta variant. Airdate: June 15, 2021 Guests: Thomas Friedman Dr. Vivek Murthy To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Biden preparing intensely for Putin’s tactics with aides and allies
President Joe Biden has been using his spare time on his European tour to prepare intensely for his meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Biden has been leaving his mornings free for consultations with advisers like Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan. CNN’s Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward joins AC360 to discuss the President’s upcoming meeting with Putin. Plus, Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said her comments comparing mask mandates and vaccination passports to the Holocaust were “offensive” after she visited the Holocaust museum. Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen is Jewish and tells Anderson Cooper he thinks it was good she apologized and went to the museum but her apology and speech after “didn’t sound like it came from the heart.” Airdate: June 14, 2021 Guests: Clarissa Ward Rep. Steve Cohen To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump DOJ requested data on 73 phone numbers and 36 email addresses from Apple
The Department of Justice under former President Trump demanded metadata from Apple on 73 phone numbers and 36 email addresses, the company said. It was part of the DOJ’s leak investigation that targeted Democratic members of Congress, staffers and their families. One target of the investigation was House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, who held a briefing today with fellow Democrats. A source tells CNN the Democratic committee members were “animated” in trying to figure out who at the DOJ and in the Trump administration were behind the effort to seize their records. Rep. Jim Himes is a member of the committee. He joins AC360 to discuss the latest in the investigation and whether or not he thinks any of his records were seized. Plus, former Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe knows what it’s like to be the subject of a leak investigation. He tells AC360 “when you see that the machinery of the Department of Justice has been activated against you and they’re actively trying to throw you in jail, it is absolutely terrifying.” Airdate: June 11, 2021 Guests: Rep. Jim Himes Andrew McCabe To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bipartisan group of 10 senators agree on infrastructure plan
A bipartisan group of ten senators say they’ve reached an agreement on infrastructure that would be “fully paid for and not include tax increases.” The group was compromised of five Democrats and five Republicans but some members of the Senate Democratic Caucus have threatened to oppose it. Democratic Strategist James Carville joins AC360 to discuss how difficult it will be to pass a bipartisan infrastructure bill if Democrats can’t even get on the same page. Plus, the FDA’s vaccine advisers debated the urgency of getting children vaccinated against Covid-19. Dr. Cody Meissner, director of pediatric infectious diseases at Tufts University School of Medicine, tells AC360 why he thinks it’s too early to be vaccinating kids. Airdate: June 10, 2021 Guests: James Carville Dr. Cody Meissner To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Biden sets ambitious agenda on first overseas trip
President Joe Biden’s domestic agenda is stalled in Washington, D.C. while he is overseas for his first trip abroad to talk with world leaders. Biden is set to meet with Russia President Vladimir Putin next week and says he won’t hold back and the U.S. will “respond in a robust and meaningful way if the Russian government engages in harmful activities.” David Axelrod is a former senior adviser to President Obama and has been on similar trips. He tells AC360 the President feels “quite confident” on the global stage and this is “comfortable terrain” for him. Plus, a growing number of Democrats are urging Biden and the Democratic leadership to act without their Republican colleagues to get legislation passed in Congress as bipartisan negotiations around infrastructure and gun reform seem to have crumbled. Democratic Sen. Ed Markey joins AC360 to discuss whether he thinks bipartisanship is a realistic goal to getting Biden’s agenda passed. Airdate: June 9, 2021 Guests: David Axelrod Sen. Ed Markey To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

White House negotiations with Capito-led Republicans officially done
Infrastructure negotiations between President Joe Biden and a group of Republican senators led by Sen. Shelley Moore Capito broke down. Sen. Capito said Biden “ultimately chose not to accept the very robust and targeted infrastructure package, and instead, end our discussions” and “this does not mean bipartisanship isn't feasible.” Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine joins AC360 to discuss and says “if the Republicans decide they don’t want to engage, we’ll move forward anyway with tools at our disposal.” Plus, in an exclusive interview with Anderson Cooper, former President Barack Obama criticized Republicans for embracing 2020 election falsehoods and said they’ve been “cowed into accepting” a series of positions that "would be unrecognizable and unacceptable even five years ago or a decade ago.” Former Senior Adviser to Obama Valerie Jarrett tells AC360 the Republican party has become “completely unrecognizable.” Airdate: June 8, 2021 Guests: Sen. Tim Kaine Valerie Jarrett To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NY Times: Trump Organization executive testifies before a grand jury
The New York Times reports that senior Trump Organization financial official Jeffrey McConney has testified before a grand jury in Manhattan as part of an investigation into former President Trump and his company. Former federal prosecutor Elliot Williams tells Anderson Cooper this is a sign that “they’re putting pressure” on the Trump Organization Chief Financial Officer, Allan Weisselberg, in an “attempt to get him to cooperate in the investigation” and potentially testify against the former President. Plus, Facebooks says Trump is now suspended from their platform until at least January 2023. Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin joins AC360 to discuss Trump’s suspension and the effect his refusal to admit the election wasn’t stolen has on the future of democracy. Airdate: June 4, 2021 Guests: Elliot Williams Doris Kearns Goodwin To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Manchin signals he’s not ready to buck Republicans on key issues
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin holds a powerful position as a pivotal swing vote for the party and he’s made it clear he’s not ready to abandon Republicans for Democrats to try and push legislation on their own. The senator from West Virginia said bipartisan infrastructure talks should continue even as pressure builds for Democrats to move forward without any Republican support. Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders joins AC360 to discuss Manchin’s stand on bipartisanship and says “I want to make the Senate work.” Plus, former Vice President Mike Pence said he’s spoken to former President Trump “many times” since they left office but “I don’t know if we will ever see eye to eye” about what happened on January 6 when rioters stormed the Capitol. He added he’s proud of their accomplishments and won’t let Democrats and “their allies in the media” use “one tragic day” to discredit millions of Americans. CNN Chief White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins tells Anderson Cooper it’s “stunning” for Pence to make these comments considering the rioters were chanting “hang Mike Pence” and he had to be escorted out. Airdate: June 3, 2021 Guests: Sen. Bernie Sanders Kaitlan Collins To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Trump advisers: The former President is more obsessed than ever with the 2020 election
Advisers for former President Trump tell CNN that he is more obsessed than ever with the 2020 election and is listening to “the bottom of the bottom of the crazies in the barrel.” The New York Times is reporting Trump is telling his allies he expects to be reinstated as President by August, which is not even a possibility. Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger has been an outspoken critic of the former President and the lies his GOP colleagues have been spreading about the 2020 election. He joins AC360 to discuss whether or not he agrees that the American democracy is in peril. Plus, state lawmakers from Pennsylvania traveled to meet with members of the Arizona legislature about the “audit” happening in Maricopa County. Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs joins AC360 to discuss the “audit” and says it’s “dangerous” and will do “nothing to determine the validity of election results.” Airdate: June 2, 2021 Guests: Rep. Adam Kinzinger Katie Hobbs To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Biden slams GOP voting restrictions as “simply un-American”
President Joe Biden announced Vice President Kamala Harris will lead his administration’s efforts on voting rights. Biden condemned the efforts by Republican-led state legislatures to pass restrictive laws that the President called “simply un-American.” Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar tells Anderson Cooper she agrees with Biden that these restrictions are an “unprecedented assault on our democracy.” Plus, while Biden was in Tulsa, he seemed to call out two moderate Democratic senators “who vote more with my Republican friends,” likely referring to West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and Arizona Sen. Krysten Sinema. Both vote more with the Democrats than the Republicans but aren’t always aligned with the Democratic caucus on some key parts of the President’s agenda. CNN Senior Political Correspondent Abby Phillip was with Biden in Tulsa, Oklahoma and joins AC360 to discuss his comments. Airdate: June 1, 2021 Guests: Sen. Amy Klobuchar Abby Phillip To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Manhunt underway for at least three suspects in Florida club shooting
Breaking news in the search for three people who opened fire at a concert venue outside Miami over the weekend. Two people were killed, 21 others wounded, and just a short time ago, we learned authorities have a key new piece of evidence to work with.. CNN's Leyla Santiago has the latest. Plus, the Mayor of Miami Dade joins Anderson to talk about the manhunt for suspects. And Rep. Elaine Luria talks with Anderson about Memorial Day and what Former national security adviser Flynn has been saying about how to get the former president back in office. Guests: Mayor Daniella Levine Cava Rep. Elaine Luria To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Podcast May 28, 2021
Today, in the very chamber overun by a violent mob just a few months ago, Senate Republicans blocked the creation of a bipartisan commission to investigate the attack. Anderson talks with Paul Begala and Scott Jennings about the politics and repercussions of the vote. And the writers of the 2018 book "How Democracies Die" talk to Anderson about today’s vote. When the book was published then-presidential candidate Biden was reportedly obsessed with it and carried it everywhere. Also, a Tennessee pastor is under fire for preaching lies about Covid and the vaccines. CNN's Elle Reeve first talked to the pastor back in December and he doubled-down on his mistruths. Now almost six months later, a family whose uncle attended the church, and died of Covid, is distraught over the misinformation from the pulpit. Elle Reeve went back to the church and wanted to ask the pastor more questions but it didn't go as planned. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

McConnell doubles down to pressure Republicans, asks for “personal favor” to block January 6 commission
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has ramped up the pressure on his GOP colleagues to oppose a bill that would create a commission to investigation the January 6 insurrection on Capitol Hill. One Republican told CNN that McConnell asked senators to support filibustering the bill as a “personal favor to him.” Democratic Sen. Tina Smith tells Anderson Cooper that McConnell’s ask for a “personal favor” feels like a threat and that the commission is the “right thing to do to get to the bottom of what happened.” Plus, the gunman who killed nine of his colleagues at a light rail yard in San Jose before killing himself was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in 2016 and was found with a “memo book filled with notes of hatred toward VTA” and “books about terrorism and fear and manifestos.” Former Philadelphia Police Commissioner and Washington, DC Police Chief Charles Ramsey joins AC360 to discuss how the gunman slipped through the cracks after being detained. Airdate: May 27, 2021 Guests: Sen. Tina Smith Charles Ramsey To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At least 8 killed in San Jose shooting
At least eight people were killed when a gunman opened fire at the Valley Transportation Authority rail yard in San Jose, California. The shooter, who was a VTA employee, is also dead. Jonathan is a videographer who went to the shooting as it was unfolding. He tells Anderson Cooper he lives within a mile radius of the rail yard and thought it was a drill until he saw law enforcement bringing people out of the facility. Plus, prosecutors investigating former President Trump have told a witness to prepare for grand jury testimony. Former federal prosecutor Elliot Williams tells AC360 “it’s clear the district attorney believes there is evidence of a crime.” Airdate: May 26, 2021 Guests: Jonathan Elliot Williams To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Washington Post: Manhattan DA convenes grand jury in Trump probe
The Washington Post reports that the Manhattan district attorney has convened a grand jury in the Trump criminal probe that’s expected to decide whether to indict former President Trump and other Trump organization officials. Daniel Goldman is a former federal prosecutor and a former assistant U.S. attorney. He tells Anderson Cooper that typically in fraud cases prosecutors believe they have a case against the defendant and “the grand jury will usually vote to indict.” Plus, memorial events and marches marked one year since George Floyd was murdered. His family and friends visited President Biden at the White House and lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Floyd’s girlfriend Courteney Ross joins AC360 to remember him and says “it’s been the hardest year of my life.” To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GOP leaders silent on Greene comparing mask mandate to Holocaust
Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene compared House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to continue the mask mandate to the Holocaust. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik haven’t responded to multiple requests by CNN to respond to Greene’s comments. Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen joins AC360 to react to Greene’s comments and said he thinks she’s “playing to her base.” He also said a lot of Republicans today have “no experience in government.” Plus, Arizona and Georgia audits are moving forward as Republicans continue to push election fraud lies. In Georgia’s Fulton County, a judge green-lit the unsealing of 147,000 mail-in ballots cast there in the 2020 election. Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robb Pitts tells Anderson Cooper the election was “open, fair and transparent.” Airdate: May 24, 2021 Guests: Rep. Steve Cohen Robb Pitts To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Police to release all video in death of Ronald Greene
CNN has obtained new body camera video from one Louisiana State Police trooper who arrived on the scene as other officers had Ronald Greene on the ground, attempting to arrest him back in 2019. Police say they will release all the video. Greene’s family said police initially told them he died from a car crash after a police pursuit. Greene’s mother, Mona Hardin, tells Anderson Cooper “they were planning to kill Ronnie way before the car was stopped.” Plus, federal authorities investigating alleged sex trafficking by Rep. Matt Gaetz have secured the cooperation of his ex-girlfriend, a former Capitol Hill staffer. Former federal prosecutor Elie Honig joins AC360 to discuss what this could mean for Gaetz. Airdate: May 21, 2021 Guests: Mona Hardin Elie Honig To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

January 6 commission vote: Unlikely 10 Republicans go against McConnell
The chances of 10 Senate Republicans going against Senator Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and siding with the Democrats to establish an independent and bipartisan commission to investigate the January 6 riot is looking unlikely. McConnell has already said he’s against the legislation. Democrats have the majority in the Senate and would need 10 members of the GOP to vote for the bill to pass. Democratic Sen. Mazie Hirono tells AC360 any of her Republican colleagues who vote against the bill are “closing their eyes, ears, everything to what happened.” Plus, Ronald Greene’s family was told he died in a car wreck after a 2019 encounter with police. More than two years later, new body camera video obtained by the Associated Press shows Greene was kicked, dragged and tased by police. Charles Ramsey is the former Philadelphia Police Commissioner and Washington, DC Police Chief. He joins AC360 to discuss the new video and says it’s clearly “a case of excessive force.” Airdate: May 20, 2021 Guests: Sen. Mazie Hirono Charles Ramsey To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

35 Republicans vote with Democrats in favor of January 6 Capitol riot commission
The House passed a bill to create an independent and bipartisan commission to investigate the January 6 attack on the Capitol. 35 Republicans voted with the Democrats despite opposition from GOP leadership. Democratic Rep. Kathleen Rice joins AC360 to discuss the bipartisan vote. Plus, the New York attorney general has opened a criminal tax investigation into the Trump Organization’s CFO, Allen Weisselberg. The development comes just one day after the attorney general announced she’s joining the Manhattan district attorney’s office in a criminal investigation into the Trump Organization. Former federal prosecutor Elie Honig tells Anderson Cooper if prosecutors can flip Weisselberg, it’s a “gamechanger.” Airdate: May 19, 2021 Guests: Rep. Kathleen Rice Elie Honig To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

McCarthy won’t support bipartisan January 6 commission
House Minority leader Kevin McCarthy won’t support a deal to form a January 6 commission, siding with some other Republicans who have tried to downplay and move on from the violent efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Democratic Rep. Jason Crow was in the Capitol the day of the insurrection and comforted his colleagues as rioters stormed the building. He tells Anderson Cooper that McCarthy wants to sweep the insurrection under the rug and that he needs former President Trump’s support regardless of his behavior and incitement of the insurrection. Plus, the Pasquotank County district attorney said the deputies who fatally shot Andrew Brown Jr. in Elizabeth City, North Carolina last month were justified in using deadly force. The three deputies who fired at Brown will be reinstated and retrained. Brown family attorney Benjamin Crump joins AC360 to discuss the district attorney’s comments and says he’s trying to “whitewash this unjustified killing of a black man.” Airdate: May 18, 2021 Guests: Rep. Jason Crow Benjamin Crump To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New York won’t require masks or social distancing for fully vaccinated people
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that New York will adopt the CDC’s guidelines to not require masks, inside or outside, or social distancing for people who are fully vaccinated. The CDC said adults and children who aren’t vaccinated still need to wear masks. Many states have lifted restrictions and started reopening as more people have received the vaccine. Dr. Leana Wen is an emergency room physician and the former Baltimore health commissioner. She tells Anderson Cooper only 37% of the population is fully vaccinated so “we have to consider our obligation to protect the most vulnerable” and right now policies don’t reflect that. Plus, Joel Greenberg, a former Florida tax collector and close confidant of Rep. Matt Gaetz, formally pleaded guilty to six federal charges. Greenberg admitted to a judge he had knowingly solicited and paid a minor for sex. Federal investigators are looking at whether Gaetz broke federal sex trafficking, prostitution and public corruption laws and whether he had sex with a minor. He hasn’t been charged and denies any wrongdoing. Former federal prosecutor Elie Honig joins AC360 to discuss what Greenberg’s guilty plea could mean for Florida Congressman. Airdate: May 17, 2021 Guests: Dr. Leana Wen Elie Honig To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Confusion over CDC’s new mask guidelines
There’s confusion after the CDC said if you're fully vaccinated you don't need to wear a mask in most cases. Drs. Paul Offit and Ashish Jha answer your questions about masks. Plus, across the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and Israel there’s growing tension. CNN's Ben Wedeman is in Jerusalem with the latest. Airdate: May 14, 2021 Guests: Dr. Paul Offit Dr. Ashish Jha To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CDC: Fully vaccinated Americans no longer need masks in most cases
More than 15 months after the CDC first recommended wearing masks, the federal health agency now says that if you're fully vaccinated, you don't need a mask anymore in most cases. Drs. Sanjay Gupta and Leana Wen answer your questions about mask wearing. Plus, Democratic Congresswoman Val Demings reacts to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's confrontation on Capitol Hill with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Demings also shares her thoughts on the ousting of Congresswoman Liz Cheney from her Republican leadership position. Airdate: May 13, 2021 Guests: Dr. Sanjay Gupta Dr. Leana Wen Rep. Val Demings To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cheney: "I will do everything I can to ensure" that Trump "never again gets anywhere near the Oval Office"
Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from her position as House GOP conference chair. After the vote she said she “will do everything I can to ensure” that Trump “never again gets anywhere near the Oval Office.” Rep. Elise Stefanik is expected to replace Cheney and says she “absolutely” has enough support to replace her as chair, even with a challenge. Conservative lawyer George Conway joins AC360 to discuss the future of the Republican Party. Plus, the CDC director has recommended the use of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine in children ages 12-15-years-old. Dr. Sanjay Gupta tells Anderson Cooper the vaccine is very “safe and effective.” Airdate: May 12, 2021 Guests: George Conway Dr. Sanjay Gupta To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rep. Liz Cheney: “Remaining silent and ignoring the lie, emboldens the liar”
Rep. Liz Cheney spoke on the House floor about the move to oust her from her leadership position. She vowed not to remain silent as the former President continues to spread election lies and said our freedom only lasts if we protect it. Former U.S. Representative Mia Love joins AC360 to react to her former colleague’s speech. Plus, Andrew Brown Jr’s family said the roughly 19 minutes of videos they saw of the fatal shooting shows an unjustified killing. Brown was shot and killed April 21st when deputies were trying to execute an arrest warrant. Chance Lynch represents the Brown family and was able to watch the videos with them. He tells Anderson Cooper he saw Brown sitting in his car, afraid and in shock when the police arrived on the scene. Airdate: May 11, 2021 Guests: Mia Love Chance Lynch To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Caitlyn Jenner on Biden: “He is our President. I respect that.”
California recall candidate Caitlyn Jenner said she doesn’t believe the election was “stolen” and Biden “is our President. I respect that.” Jenner, a longtime Republican, is challenging Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is likely facing a recall over his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. She joins AC360 to discuss the economy, immigration and what she’d do if elected governor. Plus, the FDA has authorized Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine for children ages 12 to 15. Dr. Leana Wen tells AC360 that during the trials the vaccine seemed to have 100% efficacy in preventing the virus. Airdate: May 10, 2021 Guests: Caitlyn Jenner Dr. Leana Wen To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Texas House passes election overhaul bill that adds new restrictions
The Texas House of Representatives passed an election overhaul bill that would add new voting restrictions and penalties to address voter fraud, even though there was no evidence of it in the 2020 election. It’s the latest effort by Republicans across the country to reduce voting access. Beto O’Rourke, a former Democratic Congressman from Texas, joins AC360 to discuss the Texas bill and says young and old people, African Americans and the disabled will likely be most affected if this bill is signed into law. Plus, a federal grand jury has indicted Derek Chauvin and three other former Minneapolis Police officers in connection with the death of George Floyd, alleging the officers violated Floyd’s constitutional rights. Former federal prosecutor Elie Honig breaks down the new charges. Airdate: May 7, 2021 Guests: Beto O’Rourke Elie Honig To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump allies search for viable Cheney foe in Wyoming
With Rep. Liz Cheney, the No. 3 House Republican, about to be forced out of her leadership position for telling the truth that Trump lost the 2020 election, people are already lining up to challenge her in 2022. CNN National Correspondent Gary Tuchman takes AC360 to Wyoming to talk to Cheney’s constituents about whether they support her or the former president’s “Big Lie” about the past election. Plus, Democratic Rep. Kathleen Rice joins AC360 to discuss the future of the Republican Party and says its “completely co-opted and owned by Donald Trump.” Airdate: May 6, 2021 Guests: Gary Tuchman Rep. Kathleen Rice To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rep. Liz Cheney: Republicans must choose between the truth and Trump
Rep. Liz Cheney: Republicans must choose between the truth and Trump In a new op-ed in the Washington Post, Rep. Liz Cheney says the Republican Party is at a “turning point” and must choose between the truth and Trump’s 2020 election lies. The No. 3 House Republican called out the House Minority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy for “changing his story” on Trump’s responsibility in inciting the violence on January 6th. Former Republican Congresswoman Mia Love tells Anderson Cooper she doesn’t understand why other Republicans aren’t embracing Cheney and the truth. Plus, allies of Rudy Giuliani have been calling on former President Trump and Republicans to pay for the former New York City mayor’s efforts around the 2020 election, and help subsidize his mounting legal fees. Former federal prosecutor Elie Honig joins AC360 to discuss the Giuliani investigation and says in his experience the two most common reasons people decide to cooperate with prosecutors are time and money. Airdate: May 5, 2021 Guests: Mia Love Elie Honig To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

House GOP leader: “I’ve had it” with Liz Cheney
House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy was caught on a hot mic talking negatively about Rep. Liz Cheney, saying “I’ve had it with her” and “I’ve lost confidence” in her. McCarthy has claimed that Cheney, No. 3 in House GOP leadership, has failed to do her job in driving the party’s message to take back the majority. Sources tell CNN that McCarthy thinks he has the votes to oust the Wyoming Congresswoman from her leadership position and is pushing for Trump loyalist Rep. Elise Stefanik to replace her. Conservative lawyer George Conway joins AC360 to discuss the future of the Republican party. Plus, President Biden announced his next goal is to administer at least one Covid-19 vaccine shot to 70% of U.S. adults by July 4th. White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain tells Anderson Cooper their goal is to make it easy and convenient for people who aren’t vaccinated to find vaccines. Airdate: May 4, 2021 Guests: George Conway Ron Klain To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rep. Liz Cheney: Trump’s election lies are “poison”
Rep. Liz Cheney, the No. 3 House Republican, said her party can’t accept the “poison” of the idea that the 2020 election was stolen. She also said they shouldn’t “whitewash” the Capitol riot on January 6th and the former President’s role in inciting the violence. The Wyoming Congresswoman has been at odds with Trump since the insurrection, which has made her a target of the former President and his supporters. New York Times Foreign Affairs Columnist Thomas Friedman joins AC360 to discuss Cheney’s comments and says she’s “standing up for our democracy.” Plus, the family of Andrew Brown Jr. gathered at a church in Elizabeth City, North Carolina to remember his life and continued their calls for justice and accountability. Authorities have released few details about the fatal shooting of the 42-year-old, who was fatally shot by sheriff deputies when they were trying to execute a warrant. Brown family attorney Benjamin Crump gives Anderson Cooper an update on when the family will finally be able to see the full body camera video of the shooting. Airdate: May 3, 2021 Guests: Thomas Friedman Benjamin Crump To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump allies worry Giuliani raid sent “strong message” to the former President’s inner circle
An adviser to former President Trump is worried the Rudy Giuliani raid sent a “strong message to a lot of people inside Trump’s world” and that more investigations could be coming. Federal agents recently executed a search warrant on Giuliani’s apartment and office. The former mayor of New York City has been the focus of an investigation surrounding his activities in Ukraine. Daniel Goldman was counsel for the Democrats during former President Trump’s first impeachment trial. He joins Anderson Cooper to discuss the Giuliani investigation. Plus, beginning May 4th the Biden administration will restrict travel from India, where one of the world’s worst Covid-19 outbreaks is devastating the country. CNN’s Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward brings AC360 to New Delhi for an update on the lack of oxygen and other hospital supplies. Airdate: April 30, 2021 Guests: Daniel Goldman Clarissa Ward To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

India experiencing world’s worst Covid-19 outbreak
India is currently experiencing the world’s worst Covid-19 outbreak with daily cases and deaths rising every day. Bodies are being burned in makeshift crematoriums and hospitals are running low on supplies, some on the verge of collapse. CNN’s Chief International Correspondent Clarissa Ward takes AC360 to New Delhi to show just how dire the situation is there. Plus, Cindy McCain joins Anderson Cooper to discuss her new memoir, the future of the Republican party and her late husband Sen. John McCain’s legacy. Airdate: April 29, 2021 Guests: Clarissa Ward Cindy McCain To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CDC issues new outdoor mask guidance for full vaccinated people
The CDC issued new outdoor mask guidance for people who are fully vaccinated, allowing them to unmask in small outdoor gatherings and while eating outside. Unvaccinated people are encouraged to wear masks if they are in similar situations. The federal agency said even vaccinated people should still avoid large gatherings. Dr. Peter Hotez is the Co-Director at the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children's Hospital. He tells AC360 whether or not he thinks the new guidelines are too conservative. Plus, CNN obtained new surveillance video that a source says shows sheriff’s deputies arriving in a pickup truck to serve a warrant on Andrew Brown Jr., moments before he was fatally shot. Despite cries for transparency, authorities have yet to release any of the body camera video to the public. Wayne Kendall, one of the attorneys representing the Brown family, joins AC360 to discuss the new video and say it shows an “execution.” Airdate: April 27, 2021 Guests: Wayne Kendall Dr. Peter Hotez To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brown family attorney: Video of police shooting shows “execution”
An attorney for Andrew Brown Jr.’s family said the shooting of the North Carolina Black man was an “execution.” The family was only shown a short snippet of the body camera video. Pasquotank County sheriff’s deputies fatally shot Brown when they attempted to serve him an arrest warrant. Few details and no video has been released publicly. Brown’s son, Khalil Ferebee, joins AC360 to remember his father and says he’s “heartbroken.” Plus, sources tell CNN President Biden will announce new CDC guidance about wearing masks outdoors. Dr. Leana Wen is an emergency room physician and the former Baltimore Health Commissioner. She tells Anderson Cooper outdoor masks mandate “can go” and says we should be focused on “reducing risk” not necessarily “eliminating risk.” Airdate: April 26, 2021 Guests: Khalil Ferebee Dr. Leana Wen To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CDC & FDA lift pause on J&J coronavirus vaccine
The CDC and FDA lifted the pause on the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine after use of the shot was halted while rare, severe blood clots were investigated. The label will be updated to add a warning about the possible rare blood clots. CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta joins AC360 to discuss the safety of the J&J vaccine. Plus, sources tell CNN investigators are looking into whether or not Rep. Matt Gaetz took gifts, including travel and paid escorts, in exchange for political favors. Federal authorities are investigating whether a 2018 trip to the Bahamas involving Gaetz and several young women was part of an orchestrated effort to influence the Florida Congressman in the area of medical marijuana. Matt Zapotosky covers the Justice Department for The Washington Post’s national security team. He tells Anderson Cooper “it’s tough to substantiate federal public corruption charges.” Airdate: April 23, 2021 Guests: Dr. Sanjay Gupta Matt Zapotosky To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daunte Wright’s mother: “My son should be burying me”
Friends and family gathered in Brooklyn City, Minnesota to say goodbye to Daunte Wright, a Black man whose death at the hands of a police officer reignited conversations about policing and use of force. The 20-year-old’s mother said she “never imagined that I would be standing here” and that the roles “should completely be reversed. My son should be burying me.” Jonathan Mason attended the funeral and was Wright’s mentor and high school adviser. He tells Anderson Cooper that Wright was “such a joyful, spunky young man.” Plus, a new study suggests that in the six months after diagnosis, people who had Covid-19 face a greater risk of death and ongoing health problems. CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta joins AC360 to discuss the new findings and says “we’re still learning a lot about this virus” and what exactly it’s doing in the body. Airdate: April 22, 2021 Guests: Jonathan Martin Dr. Sanjay Gupta To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices