CNN Inside Politics

While many are focusing on last-minute gifts today, the Trump Administration is in deep damage control as they attempt to quell the fallout from the latest Epstein documents release. And additional documents are expected to drop throughout the next week. CNN's Kevin Liptak begins our coverage in West Palm Beach, Florida, where President Trump is celebrating Christmas at Mar-a-Lago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, CNN reporters are combing through more than 30,000 new Epstein documents released overnight by the Justice Department. Unlike the first tranche of files released last week that featured heavy redactions and few mentions of President Trump, this time we're seeing his name again and again. So what have we learned? The big headline so far, according to a 2020 email from a federal prosecutor in New York, is that Trump traveled on Epstein's private jet at least eight times, once with just Epstein and a 20-year-old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump's base is signaling a complicated path for the America-first movement, based on thousands of MAGA faithful turning out over the weekend for the Turning Point USA annual summit. Was it a turning point for the MAGA movement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A deep into the heated controversy surrounding the partial release of the Epstein files, which has led to allegations of a coverup and questions about President Trump's handling of the situation. The episode also explores new CNN polling about the 2028 presidential election, revealing voters' preferences and key traits they seek in candidates. Additionally, legendary rocker Gene Simmons visits Capitol Hill to advocate for the American Fairness Music Act and shares insights on his relationship with President Trump and his views on the MAGA movement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tension grips Washington as we wait to see if the Justice Department meet its deadline and releases the Epstein files by midnight. Whatever happens, Democrats are already crying foul, claiming comments from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanch suggest they might not get everything that they are required to release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just before we came on the air today, House Democrats released -- without context -- five new photos from the Epstein estate. They arrive just a day before the deadline Congress set for the DOJ to release all the Epstein files. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A mini revolt of endangered moderate Republicans turning on their leadership over health care forces House Speaker Mike Johnson to insist "I haven't lost control." As Manu Raji reports, it's not exactly a sound bite the GOP wants out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why did White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles do an extraordinarily candid interview with Vanity Fair? That's the question on the minds of everyone both in and out of Trump World. Dana and her panel take a deep dive into Wiles' words, which include describing her boss as having an "alcoholic's personality." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, Nick Reiner, son of Hollywood icon Rob Reiner, has just been taken into custody after both of his parents were found dead in their home last night of what police call a "homicide." CNN's Josh Campbell reports from Los Angeles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into our in-depth coverage on the tragic mass shootings in Rhode Island and Australia. Follow along with our expert panel as we dissect these heart-wrenching events and their implications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee release new photos of powerful people captured in Jeffrey Epstein's orbit. They include Donald Trump before he was president, as well as Steve Bannon, Bill Clinton, and Woody Allen. It's not clear where or when these photos were taken, but it's important to note that none depict any sexual misconduct, nor are they believed to depict underage girls. But they do give you a behind the scenes look at how Epstein was connected with some of the most powerful men in the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, the Senate is voting on competing health plans from Democrats and Republicans. But don't hold your breath for a Christmas miracle, as both plans were expected to fail, which means in just 20 days, 24 million Americans who rely on Obamacare subsidies will face crippling health care costs unless something dramatically changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump claims he wants to "make America affordable again." Is it just lip service? He's in Pennsylvania today where he visited a swing district to speak to Americans struggling with high prices. But his message was ... confusing? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Asked today what grade he'd give the US economy, President Trump responded, "An A plus plus plus plus!" This, despite poll after poll showing most Americans disagree. But the real question is, what will midterm election voters think? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Supreme Court is hearing arguments in a case that could permanently hand over even more power to the president of the United States. The court's conservatives signaled they seem likely to side with the White House and overturn 90 years of precedent. And it's a case that could give the president more power to fire anyone for any reason. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of 'Inside Politics Sunday,' the discussion focuses on the Republican Party's struggle with affordability issues and Donald Trump's disconnect from economic realities. The show features a one-on-one interview with Pennsylvania Republican Brian Fitzpatrick, who criticizes the GOP's lack of focus on critical issues like healthcare premiums. The episode also covers the potential Senate run of progressive Democrat Jasmine Crockett in Texas, and the controversial tenure of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, including his handling of military strikes and internal Pentagon issues. Additionally, the program highlights the unique political scenario with Texas Congressman Troy Nehls not seeking reelection, paving the way for his identical twin brother Trevor Nehls to run for his seat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A vaccine advisory panel handpicked by the HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. voted to end the longstanding recommendation to give all newborns the Hepatitis b vaccine. The CDC said more than 6 million cases were prevented by routine vaccines over the past 30 years. But today, the panel recommended delaying the dose until a child is two months old. The recommendation heads to the CDC director for approval. CNN medical analyst Dr. Jonathan Reiner joins the show to discuss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A man in Woodbridge, Virginia is arrested in the DC pipe bomber case from five years ago. Meanwhile, not far away on Capitol Hill, Admiral Frank Bradley and Joint Chiefs Chair General Dan Caine brief top senators on the disputed double tap boat strike, making the case that those survivors appeared to be radioing for help and could have continued trafficking drugs, which made them legitimate targets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ICE agents are descending on two more blue cities, with threats of more on deck. New Orleans and Minneapolis are bracing for major deportation operations, the next steps in the administration's immigration crackdown. Our Priscilla Alvarez is learning that ICE is aiming to arrest 5,000 in the Big Easy, while in the Twin Cities the targets will be undocumented immigrants from Somalia, who President Trump has been talking about in increasingly racist terms in recent days. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's show begins as President Trump is in the middle of what he said is the final Cabinet meeting of the year. Following an evaluation by Pete Hegseth, Dana and her panel analyze the defense secretary's words, especially his defense of the admiral accused of a "double tap" strike that killed survivors of a September US attack against a suspected Venezuelan drug boat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did the Pentagon order a second strike to kill injured survivors after the US military attacked a suspected drug boat off the coast of Venezuela? If so, it could be a war crime, and it's leading to the most significant GOP demands for oversight since President Trump took office. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump threatens military action in Venezuela while at home in the wake of a National Guard shooting he clamps down on immigration. Is his furious reaction overreach? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump is promising his harshest immigration crackdown yet after a shooting in Washington, DC left one National Guard member dead and another in critical condition. The suspected shooter, a 29-year-old Afghan national who worked with the US government during the war, came to the United States in 2021 through a program created under the Biden Administration. He was granted asylum under the Trump Administration on Thanksgiving call with US troops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We begin today's special Thanksgiving Day show with new developments on the man accused of gunning down two young National Guard members in the nation's capital. The CIA revealed that the 29-year-old Afghan national actually worked with the US government during the war. He was resettled in the US after that chaotic withdrawal four years ago, part of a program to protect those who helped Americans from Taliban retribution. Now, prosecutors say he was living in Washington state and allegedly drove across the country to carry out the attack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Six democrats on Capitol Hill are now under federal investigation over their video urging service members to reject illegal orders. The lawmakers say President Trump is "using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass members of Congress." The administration is acutely focused on Senator Mark Kelly, a decorated and retired Navy captain. The Pentagon has threatened to demote him, dock his pension, and even prosecute him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House says Russia and Ukraine are on the verge of a peace deal. Volodymyr Zelensky could come to Washington as soon as this week to finalize the plan to end the unprovoked war Vladimir Putin initiated. The White House press secretary bragged of tremendous progress but added, "There are a few delicate but not insurmountable details that must be sorted out and will require further talks." So the question becomes, what does Russia think about all of this? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 31st, health care premiums are set to spike for 22 million Americans who buy their insurance on the Obamacare exchanges. It's why Democrats shut down the government. They had demanded Republicans extend subsidies to help offset those costs. Democrats lost that fight, but Republicans know the politics aren't exactly on their side. So today, sources tell CNN the president will unveil a new plan to temporarily extend subsidies without restrictions while Republicans keep working to come up with a longer term health insurance plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Manu Raju covers a tumultuous week for President Trump and the GOP. It highlights Trump's declining poll numbers, internal party fractures, notably the resignation of Marjorie Taylor Green, and growing discomfort among Republicans over various issues, including the Epstein files and Trump's call to jail Democrats. The panel of experts discusses the midterm elections, the potential impacts of gerrymandering, and the looming threat of GOP losses. The show features an interview with Texas Congressman Wesley Hunt, who is challenging Senator John Cornyn, revealing internal GOP conflicts regarding his candidacy. Additionally, the episode touches on Trump's extensive and controversial remodeling projects, including plans to renovate golf courses with Jack Nicklaus and updates to the White House ballroom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we take a deep dive into today's Oval Office meeting between New Yorkers: the city's mayor-elect and the nation's president. President Trump Zohran Mamdani are two dramatically different people with dramatically different worldviews. Each sees the other as a problematic partner but pitch-perfect foil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's what Jeffrey Epstein's survivors have been demanding for years, but when the president finally signs legislation to release the files, what will the public actually see? Plus: Donald Trump addresses the US-Saudi Investment Forum alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After the White House spent months trying to stop the release of the Epstein files, President Trump’s stunning about-face means a House vote in favor of the measure could be unanimous. Also on today’s show: President Trump rolls out the red carpet for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the man who, according to US intelligence, ordered the assassination of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a stunning about-face, President Trump is now urging House Republicans to vote to release the Epstein files. Plus, Marjorie Taylor Greene apologizes to Dana for years of "toxic" rhetoric, marking what would be a dramatic shift in a political brand hallmarked by derogatory comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump is attempting to suppress the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, amidst tension with MAGA Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene who supports the release of Epstein files. Trump has labeled Greene a traitor, creating fractures within the Republican base. Key Republican votes on releasing Epstein-related emails are expected, with Trump facing resistance within his party. In another segment, the future of Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer is questioned due to dissatisfaction within his party, fueled by Schumer’s handling of the government shutdown. Potential challengers, like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, loom ahead of the 2028 elections. Also discussed is the public's discontent with Trump's handling of healthcare, seen as a pivotal issue for Democrats in upcoming elections. Finally, there's coverage of internal conflicts in the Democratic Party, such as Marie Gluesenkamp Pérez criticizing Rep. Chuy Garcia over his retirement announcement timing, and efforts by former NFL player Kyle Turley to reverse a new ban on many hemp products included in a recent government funding bill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Not long before today's show begins, President Trump orders an investigation into ties between the sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and a host of people and institutions, including Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, and JP Morgan Chase. Will his strategy help deflect scrutiny of his ties to Epstein? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The Trump Administration is scrambling to contain the fallout from thousands of Jeffrey Epstein emails, many naming the president. But will they be able to rein in Republicans who are pushing for full transparency? Plus: Tens of millions of Americans are now facing skyrocketing health care costs. We'll break down how their struggle may define the 2026 midterms. And: Disagreeing without being disagreeable is sadly rare in politics. But we'll show you a top Democrat and Republican in the Senate do just that on the college campus where CharlKe kirk was assassinated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: We examine the private emails in which Jeffrey Epstein mentions Donald Trump by name, including one where convicted the sex offender says the president "knew about the girls" Plus: Decades after then-newly elected President John Kennedy called for a new generation of leadership, his grandson is taking up that mantle by running for Congress. And: The senator known for defying political norms is using his signature candor to open up about his personal struggle that also impacts millions of Americans. Democratic Senator John Fetterman joins the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many Democrats, including the party's top leaders, are seething after eight defections led to a Senate deal to end the record-long government shutdown. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is vowing the fight is not over. But what, if anything can he or anyone else do? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: We have new reporting on the breakthrough deal to end the longest government shutdown in US history, which is sparking an epic meltdown within the Democratic party that's getting uglier by the minute. Plus: President Trump issues new pardons for Rudy Giuliani and other allies who tried to help him overturn the 2020 election. And: Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing his party to address the crisis facing American boys and young men. Does he have a solution? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Politics Sunday episode discusses the ongoing federal government shutdown, now at its 40th day, causing severe disruptions and economic strain on Americans. It highlights the differing political strategies and statements from Democrats and Republicans, particularly surrounding healthcare and government funding. The episode includes an analysis of recent election outcomes, noting Democratic victories and their implications for both parties. It examines potential shifts in the MAGA movement and GOP dynamics, spurred by controversies like Tucker Carlson's interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes. Additionally, the episode reflects on Nancy Pelosi's impending retirement, detailing her influence and legacy in Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: We're following coast to coast air travel disruptions as the FAA slashes flights due to the government shutdown. Will outraged passengers finally push Congress to cut a deal? Plus: Seizing the message, slamming the messenger Republican Elise Stefanik's campaign launch for New York governor is putting Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani front and center. And: Barack Obama's post-election message to Democrats is to "impose no litmus tests." Three of his former top advisers, now of Pod Save America fame, join the show to unpack what's next for their party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The woman who made history as the first female speaker of the house is retiring at the end of her term. We'll break down Nancy Pelosi's groundbreaking four decades dominating Capitol Hill. Plus: Election aftershocks. Voters sent a decisive message to the president on his handling of an issue that sent him back to the White House. So why does he seem to be making the same mistake as his predecessor? And: Antisemitism roiling the hard-right online is now out in the open. We have new reporting on who is pushing back within the GOP and who's notably silent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's show begins as we've been listening to live Supreme Court arguments over President Trump's authority to impose tariffs without Congress's approval. The president has been using a national emergency law to do so. Our analysis begins with American legal scholar Steve Vladeck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Election Day in America. With his approval ratings at an all-time low, what does this portend for Donald Trump and the Republican party he dominates? Also on today's show: A look back at the life and career of Dick Cheney, the former VP who died today at 84. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: We have brand new CNN polling showing President Trump's approval plunging. Is it a sign of what's to come when polls close tomorrow? Plus: Democrats are trying to get out the vote for both a moderate blue dog and a Democratic Socialist. We have new reporting on how these two races could swing the battle for the soul of the Democratic party. And: You don't want to miss what President Trump is saying about the crypto tycoon he just pardoned. We're going to break down how this now-free man helps boost a key Trump family business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Covering the intense political landscape leading up to President Trump's voter test, focusing on critical gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia, and their implications for both parties. Former President Barack Obama's campaign efforts for Democrats are highlighted, especially in areas with significant minority populations. The script also dives into polling data and early voting trends, particularly in New York City and New Jersey, revealing Democratic leads but also competitive Republican challenges. A major theme is the contrasting voter enthusiasm and the effect of Trump endorsements. Furthermore, the script touches on the government shutdown, healthcare subsidies, and congressional inaction. Lastly, it describes the ongoing feud over daylight saving time legislation and its political dynamics, alongside discussions about US military actions in the Caribbean and their wider implications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The FBI says it thwarted a potential terror attack planned for around Halloween. We have new details from law enforcement sources who say the plot was "ISIS-inspired." Plus: Candidates in high-stakes governor's races are trying to get out the vote in the final four days before an election that will serve as a key political barometer for President Trump's second term. And: A Friday political palate cleanser with the creator of the Netflix hit the Inside Politics team can't stop talking about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump is on his way back to Washington after a whirlwind three-country tour of Asia. And he's bringing home a trade deal between the world's largest economic superpowers. We break down whether that trade truce is a benefit or a bust for the American consumer. But while the president was very busy with red carpets and golden gifts and getting those trade deals, here in the United States there are tens of millions of Americans worrying about putting food on the table if Congress can't reach a deal to fund the government. House Speaker Mike Johnson joins us to discuss the situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Global markets are on edge as the leaders of the world's two biggest economies prepare to meet face to face just hours from now. We have new details on the Trump-Xi summit that could contain or combust a crippling trade war. Plus: Hurricane Melissa is still battering the Caribbean after tearing through communities in Jamaica and Cuba. CNN is live on the ground to show you the storm's heartbreaking trail of destruction. And: Many fellow Republicans want the GOPcandidate for New York City mayor to drop out to prevent a Democratic Socialist from winning. Dana speaks with Curtis Sliwa about why he thinks he still has a path to Gracie Mansion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, Hurricane Melissa about to make landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm packing winds of 185 miles an hour. It's already one of the most powerful storms on record. Officials have been pleading with Jamaicans to evacuate, with the National Hurricane Center warning "this is your last chance to protect your life." Our coverage begins with CNN meteorologist Derek van Dam live in Kingston, Jamaica. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The Trump Administration is hyping a potential breakthrough in the crippling trade war between the world's two biggest economies. But the president says nothing is set in stone until his meeting with the Chinese leader this week. Plus: Hurricane Melissa is just hours away from making a direct hit on Jamaica. We bring you the latest forecast on what's expected to be one of the most powerful storms in history. And: Progressives and Democratic Socialists are hoping that their candidate can win not just the battle to be the Mayor of New York, but the broader fight for the soul of their party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices