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We’re on the verge of a fourth Covid surge. And that has health officials freaked out about a nightmare scenario where cases outpace vaccinations, more new variants emerge and things … get really bad. POLITICO’s Erin Banco reports. Plus, the Democrat who lost a House race in Iowa last year by only six votes is dropping her challenge to Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks. And European regulators say there’s no evidence to support restricting the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine.Erin Banco covers the coronavirus pandemic and the CDC for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden wants to give the nation hope. But a jump in Covid cases is complicating things. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Right now, college basketball players are competing in a tournament that generates billions of dollars, but they're not the ones raking in cash. Today, the Supreme Court hears oral arguments in a case that could shift the way the NCAA regulates compensation for those athletes. POLITICO’s Juan Perez reports. Plus, Biden signs a bill extending the deadline for small business loans. And Asian American advocates praise some new White House actions to counter rising anti-Asian violence.Juan Perez Jr. is an education reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Workers at an Amazon warehouse in the town of Bessemer have submitted their votes in an election that could shape the fate of Amazon — and the future of the labor movement in the U.S. POLITICO’s Rebecca Rainey gives an on-the-ground look at the facility and its employees during the final days of the union drive. Plus, Biden urges states to pause reopening. And another woman accuses New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo of sexual harassment.Rebecca Rainey is a labor reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: For union battling Amazon, victory could bring a stalemate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1920, Black farmers owned 14 percent of all farms in the U.S. Today, they own just 1.6 percent. POLITICO’s Ximena Bustillo breaks down the century of discrimination that led to that decline — and looks at newly invigorated efforts to undo the damage. Plus, Rep. Judy Chu says she’s concerned the Atlanta shootings suspect won’t be charged with a hate crime. And Sen. Susan Collins avoids censure from her state party.Ximena Bustillo is a legislative reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Black farmers look to Congress, Biden to dismantle ‘culture of discrimination’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After more than two months in office, President Biden gave his first press conference on Thursday. Spoiler: It wasn’t that exciting. POLITICO’s Emily Cadei breaks down why the most notable moments came in the questions that Biden didn’t answer — and the questions that the press didn’t ask. Plus, the FEC says members of Congress can use campaign cash to hire bodyguards. And Pelosi urges California Democrats not to run in the Gov. Newsom recall.Emily Cadei is POLITICO's deputy White House editor.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden meets the press and the pandemic disappears Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are PR disasters … and then there’s whatever the heck happened with AstraZeneca this week. POLITICO’s Sarah Owermohle breaks down how and why the drug maker got into a public spat with U.S. health officials over the efficacy of its Covid vaccine. Plus, Biden makes Harris the point person on immigration issues. And Virginia bans the death penalty.Sarah Owermohle covers drug policy for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the aftermath of the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012, President Obama tapped then-Vice President Biden to help push through gun reforms, but they ended up going nowhere in the Senate. Now, in the aftermath of two mass shootings in less than a week, Biden’s hoping to avoid a repeat — and activists are wondering why he isn’t doing more. POLITICO’s Anita Kumar reports. Plus, Biden extends the special enrollment season for Obamacare. And the Government Accountability Office launches an investigation into Biden's freeze on border wall funding.Anita Kumar is a White House correspondent and associate editor for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden wants quick action on gun violence, even as he moves slowly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the aftermath of last week’s mass shooting in Georgia that killed eight people — six of them women of Asian descent — activists, political leaders and the Asian American community are grieving and calling for justice. POLITICO’s Maya King and Catherine Kim report from a rally and a prayer service held in Atlanta over the weekend. Plus, Biden taps a prominent tech industry critic to join the FTC. And the U.S. and some allies announce sanctions on China.Catherine Kim is a reporter for POLITICO.Maya King covers race and politics for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more in The Recast newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

U.S. and Chinese officials met in Alaska for their first in-person talks under the Biden administration last week and things ... got pretty testy. POLITICO’s Stuart Lau gives the play-by-play for a meeting he says “was as frosty as the weather suggests.” Plus, lawmakers condemn violence against Asians and Asian Americans. And Republican Julia Letlow wins a special election to replace her late husband in Congress.Stuart Lau is POLITICO Europe's China correspondent.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more in the China Direct newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

POLITICO’s Sabrina Rodriguez looks at how and why migration is surging — and explains why we should pay more attention to the stories of asylum seekers. Plus, Sen. Coons considers calling for testimony from Facebook and Twitter’s CEOs. And more New Yorkers want Cuomo gone, just not immediately.Sabrina Rodriguez is an immigration correspondent for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:Biden administration lacks a system for tracking Covid at the southern borderMayorkas defends Biden administration's handling of border situationRepublicans take Trump's playbook to the border Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More than half of the countries in the EU have paused AstraZeneca vaccinations amid panic that the shot could cause blood clots — despite lack of evidence. POLITICO Europe’s Sarah Wheaton breaks down the three reasons why Europe freaked out. Plus, the White House defends a controversial measure in the Democratic Covid package. And the IRS pushes back Tax Day.Sarah Wheaton is POLITICO Europe's chief policy correspondent.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:Politics threaten to cloud EU countries’ pause of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccineMore countries pause Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine against EU regulator’s advice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2020 sucked for all of us. But it was really bad for California Gov. Gavin Newsom. POLITICO’s Kevin Yamamura reports on an effort to get him kicked out of office that could go to voters this year. Plus, Biden will hold his first news conference later this month. And intelligence officials say Russia tried to interfere in the November election.Kevin Yamamura is POLITICO's California editor.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New documents obtained by POLITICO shed light on the FTC’s decision not to file an antitrust suit against Google in 2013, allowing the company to grow into the giant that it is today. Leah Nylen reports on how regulators appear to have misread the evidence in front of their eyes. Plus, Rep. Deb Haaland becomes first-ever Native American in a presidential Cabinet. And the FAA plans to extend its unruly passengers policy.Leah Nylen covers antitrust for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An 84-year-old man body-slammed in a driveway. A 27-year-old Air Force veteran jumped and called racial slurs in LA's Chinatown. POLITICO’s Irene Noguchi reports on the rise in anti-Asian attacks. Plus, Dr. Fauci warns that pulling back safety measures could delay Biden’s goal for a semi-normal Fourth of July. And Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defends Biden’s stimulus package.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read about how race and identity are shaping politics, policy and power in The Recast newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Trump's first impeachment trial to campaign trail attacks against Biden, Ukraine has been at the center of partisan warfare for years. That's making things a bit awkward for Biden as he navigates his foreign policy with the country. POLITICO's Natasha Bertrand reports. Plus, Biden orders states to make vaccines available to all adults by May. And Armed Services leaders call for a 'drawdown' of Capitol Guard troops.Natasha Bertrand is a White House correspondent for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

China’s doing them. Europe’s considering them. But they could amplify global inequities. POLITICO’s Carmen Paun breaks down the pros and cons of vaccine passports. Plus, Biden plans to sign his $1.9 trillion Covid relief package tomorrow. And McConnell calls enhanced Capitol security measures an ‘overreaction.’Carmen Paun is a global health reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more in the Global Pulse newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A year ago, New York Attorney General Letitia "Tish" James and Gov. Andrew Cuomo were allies in a tit-for-tat with then-President Trump. Now, Tish holds Cuomo’s future in her hands as her office oversees an investigation into mounting claims of sexual harassment. POLITICO’s Anna Gronewold reports. Plus, a Trump appointee charged in the Capitol insurrection will remain in jail. And Florida considers banning voting drop boxes.Anna Gronewold co-authors POLITICO's New York Playbook newsletter.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: ‘It’s a Kill Shot’: How Tish James Holds Cuomo’s Future In Her HandsSubscribe to POLITICO's New York Playbook and New York Playbook PM newsletters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, the pandemic shut down basically everything. But the housing market? It’s kept on chugging along. In fact, prices are soaring. POLITICO’s Katy O’Donnell explains why that could be a big problem. Plus, the Biden administration grants Venezuelans temporary protected status. And the RNC brushes back a 'cease-and-desist' demand from Trump’s attorneys.Katy O'Donnell covers housing and consumer finance for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It wasn’t easy and it sure wasn’t pretty, but after a marathon session that included the longest vote in Senate history, Democrats finally passed their $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package over the weekend. POLITICO’s Marianne LeVine reports. Plus, New York Gov. Cuomo faces growing calls to step down. And Biden signs an order to promote more voting access.Marianne LeVine covers the Senate for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:Senate approves Biden's $1.9 trillion pandemic relief planSchumer leads Dems to messy but major win on Covid aidBiden rides a Keep It Simple, Stupid strategy to early success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1:49pm — The chief of the Capitol Police makes an urgent plea for help from the National Guard. 5:08pm — Final approval from the Pentagon comes through. What happened in the hours between? POLITICO’s Kyle Cheney reports. Plus, Alabama’s GOP governor extends the state’s mask mandate. And a new poll says most New Yorkers don’t want Gov. Cuomo to resign.Kyle Cheney is a congressional reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Capitol riot probe zeroes in on Pentagon delay in sending troops Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three working vaccines. Ramped-up production. Falling hospitalizations. “Normal life” feels within reach … But actually, it’s still gonna be a bit. POLITICO’s Erin Banco reports. Plus, New York Gov. Cuomo says he will not resign amid allegations of sexual harassment. And Facebook lifts its political ad ban.Erin Banco covers the coronavirus pandemic and the CDC for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: CDC's draft guidelines for vaccinated Americans call for small steps toward normal life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Obama tried to do it. So did Trump. But neither could make the elusive infrastructure overhaul happen. Will President Biden finally be able to pass a massive infrastructure package to rebuild the nation’s crumbling roads, bridges and broadband — or will he suffer the same fate as his predecessors? POLITICO’s Tanya Snyder reports. Plus, Biden says there will be enough vaccines for every adult in the US by April. And a federal watchdog calls for mandatory coronavirus workplace safety standards.Tanya Snyder is a transportation reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on George Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes, killing the man who allegedly used a counterfeit $20. Chauvin will be tried for murder this month. Many officers have been indicted for the deaths of Black people, but not convicted. POLITICO's Nolan McCaskill reports on whether this case will be different, and what long-term impact Floyd's death has had on the movement for police reform.Nolan McCaskill is a national political reporter for POLITICO.Erica Morrison is a host-producer at POLITICO Audio. Jenny Ament is a senior producer at POLITICO Audio. Irene Noguchi is the executive producer at POLITICO Audio. Subscribe to POLITICO's newsletter The Recast, which looks at how race and identity are shaping politics, policy and power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After weeks of silence on the biggest union fight in the country, President Biden released a video last night urging workers at an Amazon warehouse in Alabama to vote on organizing. POLITICO's Rebecca Rainey breaks down what the President's statement means for the union push — and for Amazon. Plus, a CDC advisory panel recommends Jonson & Johnson’s vaccine. And Virginia votes to legalize marijuana.Rebecca Rainey is a labor reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden backs right of Amazon workers to attempt to organize Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Progressives say he isn’t going far enough. Moderates in border districts worry he’s going too far. And Republicans see a clear line of attack. When it comes to immigration policy, President Biden can't win. POLITICO’s Sabrina Rodriguez reports. Plus, an FDA panel discusses the safety of Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine. And Jennifer Granholm is confirmed as Energy Secretary.Sabrina Rodriguez is an immigration correspondent for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:‘Recipe for disaster’: Dem fears mount over immigration overhaulBiden reverses Trump visa ban on legal immigrationFederal judge deals Biden another blow on 100-day deportation ban Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the scramble to get the entire world vaccinated, countries like China and Russia are trying to use vaccine sales and donations to lift their standings on the global stage. POLITICO’s Ryan Heath breaks down the tricky world of vaccine diplomacy. Plus, Joe Manchin says he supports Deb Haaland’s nomination to lead the Interior Department. And embattled postmaster general Louis DeJoy tells Congress to “get used to me.”Ryan Heath authors the Global Translations newsletter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: China winning vaccine diplomacy battle, but will lose the war Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sexism. Double-standards. White male privilege. Those are some of the charges activists and Democrats are lobbing as Neera Tanden’s nomination to the Office of Management and Budget slips away over divisive tweets. POLITICO’s Laura Barrón-López reports on how Tanden's nomination as the first Asian American to lead the OMB fell apart. Plus, four board members of Texas’ power grid operator are resigning amid outrage over last week’s blackouts. And McConnell says he’ll support Merrick Garland’s nomination as Attorney General.Laura Barrón-López is a White House reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: ‘A double standard going on’: Democrats accuse GOP and Manchin of bias on Biden nominations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 117th Congress has a record number of women and people of color. But when it comes to the congressional staff working behind the scenes at the Capitol, diversity is still a huge problem. POLITICO’s Maya King reports. Plus, Xavier Becerra faces his first of two confirmation hearings. And the FDA says vaccine boosters will require less extensive trials.Maya King covers race and politics for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: This Congress is the most diverse ever. But Hill staffers remain overwhelmingly white.Subscribe to The Recast newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you confused about what you can and can’t do during the pandemic? Have you had a dispute with a family member or a coworker about Covid safety? You’re not alone. Welcome to Covid Court, where POLITICO’s Renu Rayasam issues rulings on how to get through the pandemic without losing your mind. Plus, Merrick Garland gets his second chance. And Boris Johnson says all British adults will get a first vaccine dose by the end of July.Renuka Rayasam covers the coronavirus pandemic for POLITICO and writes the POLITICO Nightly newsletter.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more in POLITICO Nightly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a curse that’s hung over New York politics for the last 50 years: No Governor since Nelson Rockefeller has made it past the third term in office. A few weeks ago, it looked like Andrew Cuomo was on track to break the curse. But now, roiled in a scandal involving Covid deaths at nursing homes, Cuomo’s political future is looking less certain. POLITICO’s Terry Golway reports. Plus, the heads of Facebook, Google and Twitter agree to testify before lawmakers again. And the Biden administration says it won’t share vaccines with poor countries until most Americans are vaccinated.Terry Golway is the Albany editor for POLITICO New York.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:Republican senators push to investigate Cuomo over New York nursing home deathsNew York assemblymember: Cuomo 'berated me,' asked me to lie about alleged cover-upCuomo makes frenemies with fellow Democrats amid crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Right now, the problem is not enough vaccines. But in a few months, when we have a bigger supply, we could be looking at a scenario where there aren’t enough people willing to take the vaccines we have. POLITICO’s Sarah Owermohle breaks down what she learned from conversations with nine state and local health officials about how to avoid that situation. Plus, Biden picks Obama-veteran Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to head the agency in charge of Medicare and Medicaid. And a judge orders two of the most notorious Capitol insurrection suspects to remain in jail.This story is part of POLITICO's Recovery Lab series that looks at the smartest new ideas for combating the pandemic.Read more:Policy hackathon: How to fix vaccination9 states getting it rightHow Covid-19 could make Americans healthierSarah Owermohle covers drug policy for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He’s not King yet, but Crown Prince Muhammed bin Salman is the leader of Saudi Arabia in all but name. He’s also one of the biggest thorns in the side of Biden’s Middle East policy plans. POLITICO’s Nahal Toosi reports. Plus, Trump attacks McConnell in a fiery statement. And NASA looks at whether it might have to delay a trip to the moon.Nahal Toosi is a foreign affairs reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:To speak or not to speak: Saudi Arabia poses a princely dilemma for BidenAttack in Iraq highlights Biden's Saudi problem Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Biden promised to “follow the science” throughout his campaign. But a month into his presidency, he’s learning the hard way that — from school reopenings to wearing masks — politics and science don’t always mesh. POLITICO’s Adam Cancryn reports. Plus, Pelosi says an independent commission will investigate the Capitol insurrection. And the WHO grants emergency approval for the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine.Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden’s follow-the-science mantra on school meets political realityWhite House tiptoes around governors relaxing coronavirus rules Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nikki Haley is no stranger to political tightropes. During her time in the Trump administration, she enjoyed the MAGA glow while avoiding Trump's brash brand of politics. But in the aftermath of the Capitol insurrection, that position is becoming less and less tenable — especially as a leading 2024 presidential contender. POLITICO's Tim Alberta reports. Plus, the White House secures 200 million more vaccine doses. And Biden moves to dismantle Trump’s Medicaid work rules.Tim Alberta is POLITICO's chief political correspondent.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Nikki Haley’s Time for Choosing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, the vaccine rollout in the U.S. hasn’t been smooth. But … it could be worse. Just look at Europe. POLITICO Europe’s Jillian Deutsch tells the complicated story of how the EU fell behind on vaccines. Plus, the Biden administration asks the Supreme Court to uphold Obamacare. And the South Africa variant is discovered in California.Jillian Deutsch is a health reporter for POLITICO Europe.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:How Europe fell behind on vaccinesProduction snags likely to leave EU lagging in vaccinations for months to come Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump talked with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone at least a dozen times during his presidency — sometimes for hours — but transcripts were never released. Now, President Biden’s team is trying to piece together whether those conversations could come back to haunt them. POLITICO’s Natasha Bertrand reports. Plus, Biden’s most controversial cabinet nominee faces a second day of hearings. And Trudeau says Canadians returning from the U.S. by land will need to show negative Covid tests.Natasha Bertrand is a White House correspondent for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's virtually impossible for Democrats to get the votes they need to convict Donald Trump. So what's the point of this week's trial? Playbook's Rachael Bade says it's more about convincing the American public — not lawmakers — that Trump should never be able to hold office again. Plus, the final race of the 2020 election cycle finally ends. And the Biden administration drops a Trump-era lawsuit over California's net neutrality law.Rachael Bade is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more in the POLITICO Playbook newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Ohio, it’s already 2022. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are jockeying for a shot at the Senate after Republican Sen. Rob Portman’s announcement last month that he won’t seek reelection, giving Democrats an unlikely opening. POLITICO’s James Arkin breaks down why the race will be a bellwether of Rust Belt politics in the post-Trump era. Plus, South Africa suspends its AstraZeneca vaccine plans. And Rep. Liz Cheney still has no plans to resign.James Arkin is a campaigns reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Democrats seek a reset button in Ohio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week is only the beginning. The Republican party is bitterly divided, and the fringe views embodied by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green aren’t going anywhere. POLITICO’s Melanie Zanona reports on how House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy is trying to keep it all together. Plus, Johnson & Johnson files for emergency use authorization. And Trump won’t testify at his impeachment trial.Melanie Zanona is a Congress reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch. Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: How Kevin McCarthy fought off a party revoltHouse strips Marjorie Taylor Greene of her committee posts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The CDC says vaccinations aren't a necessity for safely reopening schools. But many teachers unions aren't backing down. POLITICO's Mackenzie Mays reports on the fight over reopening schools in California — and how it could pose a major problem for President Biden. Plus, Democrats move to strip freshman Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of her committee assignments. And the House adopts a budget resolution to expedite Biden’s $1.9T pandemic plan.Mackenzie Mays is a POLITICO education reporter based in California.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch. Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: One of Biden’s biggest problems in his first 100 days comes from an unlikely placeNewsom: California schools won't reopen 'if we wait for the perfect' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Go big. Go fast. And, if need be, go without the GOP. That’s been President Biden’s credo while signing a record number of executive actions during his first days in office. POLITICO’s Natasha Korecki looks at the strategy behind the effort — and whether Biden is muffling his own message of bipartisanship and unity. Plus, Defense Secretary Austin roots out Trump appointees at the Pentagon. And Neera Tanden, Biden’s pick for budget director, is slated for a confirmation grilling next week.Natasha Korecki is a White House reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: ‘Let them take you to court’: Biden dares GOP to obstruct him Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the campaign trail, President Biden promised to promote democracy and fight authoritarianism across the globe. Now, he’s facing a foreign policy crisis that puts those promises to the test: A military coup in Myanmar. POLITICO’s Nahal Toosi breaks down how the White House plans to respond — and how the situation could escalate tensions with China. Plus, the Senate will vote on confirming two cabinet positions. And Robinhood’s CEO is expected to testify before a House panel on GameStop later this month.Nahal Toosi is a foreign affairs reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: An inconvenient insurrection tests Biden on China, democracy support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden wants $1.9 trillion. Republicans want a lot less. POLITICO’s Victoria Guida breaks down what would really save the Covid economy — and why we shouldn’t care too much about the price tag … for now. Plus, Blinken condemns Russia for arresting protestors. And a new CDC rule requiring travelers to wear face masks takes effect later today.Victoria Guida covers economic policy for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden agrees to meeting with GOP senators on Covid reliefWall Street shrugs at Washington’s debt pileup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every day has a theme. Every day has a briefing. Every day has some executive orders. The first full week of the Biden administration has certainly followed a pattern. POLITICO’s Sam Stein breaks down the strategy behind the blandness — and explains why boring isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Plus, Rep. Jim Jordan won’t run for Senate next year. And Novavax says early data from a U.K. trial shows its vaccine is more than 89 percent effective.Sam Stein is POLITICO's White House editor.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Inside the Biden plan to be boring Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s an app for everything. There’s also data on everyone. POLITICO’s Mohana Ravindranath breaks down how companies are slyly buying and selling the information we share with health apps — and explains why that data isn’t protected like medical records. Plus, spending on food stamps jumped by nearly 50 percent in 2020. And DHS warns of continued violence by domestic extremists.Mohana Ravindranath is an eHealth reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.This story was co-reported with POLITICO's Katy Murphy. Read more in the Future Pulse newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re in a race against the clock. New variants are popping up around the world, and slowing the spread is essential. POLITICO’s Sarah Owermohle breaks down what sort of progress the U.S. is making in its vaccination efforts — and whether we’ll be able to take on the new strains. Plus, Trump’s conviction is looking unlikely after nearly every GOP Senator voted against holding a trial. And a federal judge blocks President Biden’s 100-day deportation moratorium.Sarah Owermohle covers drug policy for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more:New virus variants threaten Biden’s pandemic plansBiden administration to buy 200 million more doses of Covid vaccineStates taking back Covid shots unused by nursing homes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden made some big immigration promises. And he’s already delivered on some of them, signing executive orders to repeal the so-called “Muslim travel ban” and halt construction of the border wall. But the centerpiece of his plan — a bill providing a pathway to citizenship for millions of immigrants — faces a steep uphill battle in Congress. POLITICO’s Laura Barrón-López reports. Plus, Biden set his sights on 1.5 million vaccines a day. And banks say a technical glitch is preventing small businesses from getting relief.Laura Barrón-López is a White House reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Biden open to breaking his immigration bill into pieces Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you can’t win, change the rules of the game. That appears to be the rule state Republicans are following across the country in the aftermath of Trump’s loss, as they push for new voting restriction laws. POLITICO’s Zach Montellaro reports on how Georgia is leading the effort. Plus, Biden health officials are hopeful vaccine supply problems will ease in March. And the Kremlin criticizes the U.S. for expressing support for Russian protesters.Zach Montellaro is a campaign reporter for POLITICO and author of the Morning Score newsletter.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: State Republicans push new voting restrictions after Trump’s loss Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The global economy is still fighting the pandemic and digging itself out of a recession, while jobs and training will surely change going forward. What other actions need to be taken by government, business, education and other institutions to ensure that people have access to the resources necessary for good jobs? Hosts Ryan Heath and Luiza Savage talk with leaders in job training and tech about the big, structural changes that need to happen.Ryan Heath is the host of "Global Translations". Luiza Savage is a host of "Global Translations".Kara Tabor is a producer for POLITICO Audio. Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO Audio. Jenny Ament is the senior producer for POLITICO Audio. Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio. Zoë Baird is the CEO and president of the Markle Foundation. Constantijn van Oranje is the envoy for Techleap.nl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats have control of the House, the Senate and the White House. But if they want to get anything done, like a massive Covid bill, they're gonna have to work across the aisle. POLITICO's Alex Thompson reports on how President Biden's decades-long relationship with Mitch McConnell could take center stage. Plus, Senate Democrats file an ethics complaint against Hawley and Cruz over their election challenge. And Sam Cornale is tapped to be DNC executive director.Alex Thompson is a White House reporter for POLITICO.Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch. Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Read more: Enemies, a Love Story: Inside the 36-year Biden and McConnell Relationship Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices