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Demand for mental health and addiction services has surged during the coronavirus pandemic. But providers are strapped for cash and say they aren’t getting the help they need. POLITICO’s Rachel Roubein explains the two-fold crisis — and why providers shouldn’t count on a quick fix from Congress. Plus, Dr. Fauci’s headed to the Capitol. And Senate Democrats threaten to block the GOP’s police bill.Rachel Roubein 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: Swamped mental health and addiction services appeal for Covid bailout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chaos. Confusion. Hours-long lines. That’s what we saw in Georgia’s primary election — and likely what we’ll see in New York and Kentucky this week. POLITICO’s Zach Montellaro explains why. Plus, Biden outraises Trump. And Trump plans to extend his executive order restricting foreign workers.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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Countrywide lockdowns. Closed borders. Coordination between nations. The EU’s unified response to the coronavirus has squashed a spike, while a number of states in the US have seen a surge. POLITICO’s Sarah Wheaton breaks down what America can learn from Europe — and what both regions can learn from the resurgence in China. Plus, Facebook removes Trump ads that have symbols used by Nazis. And Trump wants more debates with Biden.Sarah Wheaton is a senior 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump Administration is rushing the production of a coronavirus vaccine. But it probably won’t be widely available until next spring or summer — and that’s if it even works. POLITICO’s Sarah Owermohle and Dan Diamond give the hard truths about a coronavirus vaccine. Plus, John Bolton claims Trump asked China for help getting reelected. And Senate Democrats are split on what to do with the GOP police reform bill.Sarah Owermohle covers drug policy for POLITICO.Dan Diamond is health policy 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

Sure, the economy’s shown some positive signs recently, with a spike in retail and lower-than-expected unemployment. But that good news may be fueled by the government’s massive coronavirus relief measures — some of which are set to expire soon. POLITICO’s Victoria Guida breaks down why Congress might need to take more sweeping action to keep the economy afloat. Plus, Sen. Tim Scott plans to introduce his police reform bill. And a judge allows Trump’s Tulsa rally to go on as planned.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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When images of packed Florida beaches flashed across TV screens, critics grimly predicted overrun hospitals. But that didn’t happen. Now as Florida prepares to host the GOP convention, cases are spiking. POLITICO’s Marc Caputo breaks down how concerned Governor Ron DeSantis — and his political ally President Trump — should be. Plus, Trump prepares to unveil his executive order on policing. And surprise! The GOP largely backs Gorsuch’s LGBTQ decision.Marc Caputo covers Florida and the 2020 election 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: DeSantis defies critics as coronavirus spreads in Florida Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health experts say contact tracing is essential while we wait for a coronavirus vaccine. But tracing the virus’ spread requires a lot of work … and a lot of people. POLITICO’s Steven Overly explains how apps could save the day — and why a lack of coordination between states could spell trouble. Plus, the police killing of a black man in Atlanta sparks more unrest. And Europe’s borders reopen.Steven Overly covers technology 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

Camden, New Jersey, was once known as the most dangerous city in the country. Now, it's being held up as an example of policing reform. POLITICO’s Katherine Landergan explains the complicated history of how Camden dismantled and rebuilt its police department — and what other cities can learn. Plus, Trump says he’s working on an executive order on policing. And Wall Street is looking gloomy.Katherine Landergan is a New Jersey 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

States are lifting restrictions. The masks are coming off. But coronavirus is still here. POLITICO’s Dan Diamond explains why the White House has gone quiet on the crisis even as cases spike — and looks at how public health experts are struggling to find a unified message on protesting during the pandemic. Plus, confirmed cases in the US top 2 million. And Trump is headed to Oklahoma for one of his signature rallies.Dan Diamond is a health policy 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

“America’s public enemy number one in the United States is drug abuse.” With that statement in 1971, President Richard Nixon’s war on drugs began — and policies that target black and brown communities became embedded in America’s criminal justice system. POLITICO’s Natalie Fertig explains how decades of drug policy have fueled the crisis in policing that’s unfolding today. Plus, George Floyd is laid to rest. And the WHO walks back confusing claims about asymptomatic spread of coronavirus.Natalie Fertig is a cannabis policy 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

Joe Biden says he opposes the growing movement to defund police departments amid national outrage over police brutality. But President Trump is still using it as a rallying cry against the Democratic nominee. POLITICO’s Natasha Korecki explains what defunding really is — and how it’s forcing Biden to tread a fine line between scaring off moderates and alienating activists. Plus, Romney is working on his own police reform bill. And Trump is hitting the rally road again.Natasha Korecki is a national 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: Trump's latest attempt to tag Biden as a radical flops Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I don’t want it to just be the brutal murder of a black person on camera that gets people out into the streets.” Ijeoma Oluo, author of “So You Want to Talk About Race,” discusses what she hopes is next for the national conversation about police brutality — and why she thinks reforms need to happen at the local level. Plus, Minneapolis lawmakers vow to disband the city’s police department. And the National Guard withdraws from the nation’s capitol.Ijeoma Oluo is the author of "So You Want to Talk About Race."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

America is facing a trio of crises that are disproportionately hitting black people: police violence, coronavirus and a flailing economy. POLITICO’s Laura Barrón-López explains why it’s a moment that could help Democrats galvanize disillusioned young black voters — but could also further alienate them. Plus, a memorial is held in honor of George Floyd. And a study that raised concerns about hydroxychloroquine is retracted.Laura Barrón-López is a national political 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

Mass gatherings increase the risk of exposure to coronavirus. But health experts are expressing support for protests over the killing of George Floyd — and are calling for police brutality against people of color to be seen as a public health crisis. POLITICO’s Alice Miranda Ollstein breaks down the complicated relationship between the protests and the pandemic. Plus, Democrats are pushing for a police reform package in Congress. And Mattis breaks his silence on Trump’s response.Alice Miranda Ollstein 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: Mass protests could undo hard-won progress in pandemic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“This is giving adversaries a cudgel to hit America with.” Other countries are closely watching US demonstrations over police violence — and how the Trump administration is responding. POLITICO’s Nahal Toosi and Ryan Heath explain what that means for international relations and America’s status on the world stage. Plus, Steve King is out. And Trump says the GOP is pulling its convention from North Carolina.Nahal Toosi is a foreign affairs reporter for POLITICO.Ryan Heath is a senior editor at POLITICO and author of the Global Translations 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I am mobilizing all federal resources, civilian and military to stop the rioting and looting.” That’s what President Trump told the nation in a Rose Garden address Monday night, as police fired tear gas at protestors outside. POLITICO’s Nancy Cook looks at why Trump skirted calls for unity amid national demonstrations over the death of George Floyd and instead went all in on declaring himself “a president of law and order.” Plus, a DHS memo warns that extremist groups could exploit the protests. And the Justice Department tries to force a dismissal of the Michael Flynn case.Nancy Cook 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: How Trump’s scattered team scrambled to respond to historic protests Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"They're in the street because they have no choice." POLITICO brings an inside look at the protests in Minneapolis that have sparked action across the country — through the eyes of an activist who says he and other black demonstrators have had enough and a journalist who's stretched thin covering the unrest. Plus, health officials worry the protests could complicate coronavirus contact tracing. And Trump says the US government will designate ANTIFA as a terrorist organization.Mel Reeves is an activist and organizer in Minneapolis.Ricardo Lopez is the senior political reporter for the Minnesota Reformer.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.Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.Thanks to Lauren from Minneapolis for describing her experience for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Late last night, President Trump threatened violence against protestors in Minneapolis, saying, "when the looting starts, the shooting starts." In response, Twitter put a "glorifying violence" label on the post, further escalating tensions between Trump and the platform, after the president issued an executive order aimed at social media companies Thursday. POLITICO's Nancy Scola breaks down Trump's war with Twitter. Plus, the RNC outline safety guidelines for a coronavirus convention.Nancy Scola is a senior tech 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

As the coronavirus death count passes a grime milestone in the US, a growing number of regions are reopening parts of their economies. POLITICO’s Renuka Rayasam and Dan Diamond break down how cities are reopening — and what that means for the country as it tries to emerge from the pandemic. Plus, Pelosi delays a vote on surveillance legislation after an 11th hour bipartisan revolt. And Trump plans to sign an executive order aimed at social media.Renuka Rayasam is POLITICO's Texas correspondent and author of the POLITICO Nightly newsletter.Dan Diamond is a health policy 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

NASA. Elon Musk. A rocket. What could go wrong? POLITICO’s Bryan Bender breaks down what’s at stake in today’s historic launch by NASA and SpaceX — the first astronaut takeoff from US soil in nearly a decade. Plus, Twitter clamps down on the president’s tweets. And North Carolina throws Trump’s Republican convention threat back at the GOP.Bryan Bender is a senior national 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:Can NASA and Elon Musk lift off?Trump and Musk unite over Twitter, the moon and sticking it to the establishment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vladimir Putin had grand plans for the spring, including a constitutional change that would let him remain in power into his 80s. Then the coronavirus hit. Now, Russia has more cases than any country except the US. From Moscow, journalist Michele A. Berdy breaks down how the pandemic got so bad in Russia — and how it could turn the tide against Putin. Plus, Trump threatens to pull the GOP convention from North Carolina. And the WHO pauses its study of hydroxychloroquine.Michele A. Berdy is a journalist at The Moscow Times.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 Russia’s Coronavirus Crisis Got So Bad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Jakarta to Vancouver, POLITICO brings you an on-the-ground look at how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting everyday life in cities across the globe.Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio. Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch. Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio. We want to hear how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting your life. Send a voice memo recording to [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More than 40,000 National Guard troops are deployed across the US to help respond to coronavirus. But thousands are set to miss out on key federal benefits by ONE DAY if the White House doesn’t extend their deployment. POLITICO’s Alice Miranda Ollstein explains how she broke the story. Plus, the number of coronavirus cases worldwide tops 5 million. And GOP leaders distance themselves from a congressional candidate over social media posts demeaning Muslims.Alice Miranda Ollstein 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

School's out for ... well, no one really knows how long. POLITICO's Nicole Gaudiano explains why it's such a difficult question — and how schools are going to look very different when the doors are open again. Plus, the CDC quietly releases detailed reopening guidance for businesses and public institutions. And McConnell cries foul on the Michael Flynn case.Nicole Gaudiano 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

President Trump is threatening to permanently pull U.S. funding from the World Health Organization. China, on the other hand, is pledging $2 billion to fight the virus. POLITICO’s Ryan Heath explains how the WHO has become a proxy war between the two world powers — and why China is expanding its reach within the organization. Plus, experts sound the alarm over Trump’s decision to take hydroxychloroquine. And Steven Mnuchin and Jerome Powell testify before congress.Ryan Heath is a senior editor at POLITICO and author of the Global Translations 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House passed a $3 trillion relief package on Friday. But the measure is almost certainly dead upon arrival in the Senate. California Rep. Jackie Speier explains why Dems aimed high in their bill — and why she thinks lawmakers should be banned from living out of their Capitol offices. Plus, the Fed chairman warns unemployment could hit Depression-era levels. And Japan officially enters a recession.Jackie Speier is a US Congresswoman representing California's 14th Congressional DistrictJeremy 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 like hitting conspiracy bingo." That's how coronavirus has flung open the door to conspiracy theories and misinformation, according to one expert. POLITICO's Steven Overly explains how fringe groups and extremists are seizing this moment to peddle dangerous messages online. Plus, Pelosi is pushing a vote on a $3 trillion relief bill. And the CDC releases previously withheld guidance for reopening — kind of.Steven Overly covers technology policy 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: Conspiracy theorists, far-right extremists around the world seize on the pandemic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Rick Bright, the vaccine expert turned whistleblower who claims he was unfairly ousted from his position at the Health Department, testifies before Congress today. His claims are explosive, but colleagues say some of his complaint leaves out key context. POLITICO's Dan Diamond and Sarah Owermohle break down the complicated case of Dr. Bright. Plus, a federal judge is tossing cold water on the Justice Department's efforts to drop the case against Michael Flynn. And Trump splits with Dr. Fauci on how quickly schools should reopen.Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO.Dan Diamond is a health care policy 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:Colleagues paint a mixed picture of ousted vaccine chiefTop Trump critic will testify before a chairwoman who is a close ally Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlike most industries, cannabis sales have been booming during the coronavirus pandemic. And for the states where the drug is legal, that means more tax revenue during a financial crisis. POLITICO's Natalie Fertig explains how that could spur a push for legalization at the federal level. Plus, Wuhan plans to test all 11 million of its residents. And the UN chief is urging religious leaders to actively challenge hate speech and reject xenophobia during the pandemic.Natalie Fertig is a cannabis policy 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

President Trump had a "mission accomplished" moment in the Rose Garden on Monday as he touted an increase in testing and pushed for lifting restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of coronavirus. But at the same time, the White House itself was instituting new internal restrictions to prevent its own outbreak. POLITICO's Nancy Cook breaks down the "split screen" view from the West Wing. Plus, some of the nation's top doctors are videoing into a Senate hearing on the pandemic. And the WHO is warning countries not to reopen too quickly.Nancy Cook 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's no work from home for the more than 2 million farmworkers in the US who have been deemed "essential" during the coronavirus pandemic. But with packed transportation to the fields and crammed living quarters, many of them are facing conditions similar to before the crisis, putting them at risk of exposure to the virus. POLITICO's Helena Bottemiller Evich explains the "unprecedented" anxiety among agriculture workers. Plus, the White House fights an outbreak of its own. And Georgia's AG calls for a federal probe of the Ahmaud Arbery case.Helena Bottemiller Evich is a senior food and agriculture 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

Catastrophic earthquakes. Solar flares that bring down the entire power grid. The global rise of white supremacy. As if the coronavirus pandemic wasn't enough to worry about, POLITICO Magazine looked into the world-changing threats that could be next. Journalist and historian Garrett Graff breaks it down. Plus, the Justice Department drops its case against Michael Flynn. And days after cell phone video sparked national outrage, Georgia authorities have charged a white father and son with murdering a 25-year old black man who was jogging in their neighborhood in February.Garrett Graff is a journalist, director of cyber initiatives at The Aspen Institute, and author of multiple books, including The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11.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: Experts Knew a Pandemic Was Coming. Here’s What They’re Worried About Next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fifty-two days ago, President Trump vowed that widespread drive-thru coronavirus screening was finally coming. Now, the White House is declaring victory in the race for more testing. POLITICO's Dan Diamond explains where we really are — and whether it's enough to get the country on track for reopening. Plus, the Trump administration shelves a CDC guide to reopening. And Trump dismisses an ousted vaccine expert as "disgruntled."Dan Diamond is a health care policy 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: How a 96-hour project helped Trump's team reverse its testing debacle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A very strange eeriness to this whole thing." That's how POLITICO's Marianne LeVine describes the scene at the Capitol right now. We look at what's different in the Senate amid the coronavirus pandemic — including a lack of lobster rolls at the GOP's weekly lunch. Plus, ousted HHS vaccine expert Rick Bright files a whistleblower complaint. And new research sheds light on how the pandemic is disproportionately hitting African American communities.Marianne LeVine 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pollution has dropped dramatically. Los Angeles' skyline is no longer obscured by smog. Kangaroos have been spotted hopping through deserted Australian streets. POLITICO's Nick Juliano explains how the climate effects of the coronavirus pandemic are changing the way we think about sustainability. Plus, the Senate is baaaaaaack. And more states are letting businesses reopen.Nick Juliano is POLITICO's sustainability policy 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.Sign up for The Long Game, POLITICO's new sustainability newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In February, Atlantic City was finally rebounding after years of financial turmoil. Then coronavirus hit. POLITICO's Matt Friedman explains why the coastal city could be one of the biggest economic disasters of the pandemic — and the harsh lessons we can learn. Plus, Dr. Birx calls anti-lockdown protests "devastatingly worrisome." And the Supreme Court hears arguments over the phone ... Up next: SCOTUS on TikTok.Matt Friedman is a reporter for POLITICO New Jersey.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

For progressives, it's a sign of taking coronavirus seriously. On the right, it's a symbol of overreaction. POLITICO's Ryan Lizza breaks down the emerging cultural and political divide over wearing a mask — and how it gives a glimpse into the two Americas emerging amid the pandemic. Plus, Dr. Fauci warns against reopening too quickly. And the top intelligence agency rules out the theory that the coronavirus was manmade.Ryan Lizza is POLITICO's Chief Washington 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: Wearing a mask is for smug liberals. Refusing to is for reckless Republicans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Alex is doing an excellent job!” That's what President Trump tweeted after POLITICO broke the story on White House officials weighing a plan to replace HHS secretary Alex Azar — just the latest in a series of chaotic and confusing events at the health department. Dan Diamond and Adam Cancryn explain what it all means for the agency at the center of the country's response to coronavirus. Plus, the White House's "Stay at Home" guidelines are expiring. And the head of the central bank warns of a lengthy economic recovery.Adam Cancryn is a health reporter for POLITICO.Dan Diamond is a health care policy 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: 'HHS has been kicked in the teeth'White House weighing plan to replace AzarTrump rejects reports of Azar firing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republicans are resisting another massive coronavirus relief package and hoping the economy booms back sooner rather than later. POLITICO's Ben White explains why that's a big risk ahead of the November election. Plus, the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the US tops 1 million. And Dr. Fauci says he has "no doubt" new cases will emerge with reopening.Ben White is chief economic 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: Trump faces the risk of a coronavirus cliff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tracking who comes in close contact with people infected by the coronavirus is essential to understanding the spread of the disease — and getting regions on track to lift restrictions. POLITICO's Victoria Colliver explains how California plans to "build an army" of 10,000 contact tracers. Plus, Trump touts a new blueprint for increased testing that punts responsibility to states. And the WHO says the pandemic is far from over.Victoria Colliver 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: How California's contact tracing army could serve as model for nation's reopening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Campaigns are adjusting to life during a pandemic just like everyone else. POLITICO's Elena Schneider explains why that means a pivot to mail-in ballots — even for Republicans who have slammed remote voting in the past. Plus, Italy announces a plan for reopening. And Trump disputes reports of replacing HHS Secretary Alex Azar.Elena Schneider is a national political 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

"I have very little adult supervision." Matt Wuerker, POLITICO's Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist, has a colorful career sketching Trump, Pelosi, and other characters. We go inside the wonderful world of Wuerker as he shares some of his best stories... including that one time he tried using a Rumsfeld cartoon to negotiate troop withdrawals. Also, be sure to check out the new video series Punchlines featuring Matt Wuerker's cartoons and register for a free virtual cartoon workshop POLITICO Live is hosting with Matt on April 29. Matt Wuerker is the political cartoonist for POLITICO.Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO Audio. Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surgeon General Jerome Adams was back at the podium for the coronavirus task force briefing Wednesday after being sidelined earlier this week. POLITICO's Dan Diamond and Maya King look at why Adams was pushed away — and what his shifting role at the White House means for the conversation about racial disparities in the pandemic. Plus, Trump denies knowledge of a top vaccine expert's ouster. And the House is set to pass funding for small businesses.Maya King is a 2020 reporting fellow at POLITICO.Dan Diamond is a health care policy 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: Surgeon general gets pushed to sidelines, sparking questions.Black doctors blast 'woefully anemic' data on minority coronavirus cases. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some state are taking a cue from President Trump and pressing ahead with lifting coronavirus restrictions. Others are seeing anti-lockdown protests. POLITICO's Anita Kumar explains what's next in the fight over reopening. Plus, the first coronavirus death happened weeks earlier than previously believed. And Trump's immigration order falls short of his initial announcement.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: Trump allies have their fingerprints on lockdown protests. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress is on track to pass another round of relief for small businesses after cash for sorely-needed loans dried up last week. But POLITICO's Zach Warmbrodt says the lending program has been riddled with problems — and the next wave of funding could only last a couple days. Plus, Trump says he is suspending immigration into the US. And some states are beginning to reopen.Zach Warmbrodt is a financial services 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: Banks warn that new small-business funding could evaporate in 2 days. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The coronavirus pandemic is already disproportionately hitting black and brown people in the US. POLITICO's Laura Barrón-López explains why decades of distrust and a lack of public health messaging in those communities is making things worse. Plus, Canada is reeling from the deadliest mass shooting in the country's history. And the White House and Congress are close to a deal on small business relief.Laura Barrón-López is a national political 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

Earlier this week, President Trump said he had total authority over states to tell them when to lift stay-at-home orders. Now, he's kicking more responsibility back to governors in his "Opening Up America Again" plan. POLITICO's Anita Kumar breaks down the delicate dance between the president and the states. Plus, China increases the official death toll in Wuhan by 50%. And the number of cases worldwide tops 2.1 million.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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

POLITICO's Dan Diamond traces today's coronavirus crisis back through three presidents — and explains what we can learn from past failures. Plus, Trump threatens to adjourn Congress to push through nominees. And New York requires face masks in public.Dan Diamond is a health care policy 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: Inside America’s 2-Decade Failure to Prepare for Coronavirus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump's claim that he has total authority over states to override their decisions on when to reopen their economies has been widely panned by legal experts as unconstitutional. POLITICO's Josh Gerstein explains why. Plus, the US plans to halt funding to the WHO. And California considers how to reopen schools in the fall.Josh Gerstein is a senior legal affairs contributor 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: ‘Flat-out wrong’: Conservatives clobber Trump’s ‘total' power boast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rural hospitals are in danger of running out of money as the coronavirus pandemic hits America's heartland. But POLITICO's Rachel Roubein says many of them are unable to access stimulus loans. Plus, states are making their own plans for how to reopen the economy. And Sanders endorses Biden.Rachel Roubein 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: Rural hospitals shut out of stimulus loans face financial crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices