
Skimm This
557 episodes — Page 10 of 12
Burden of Proof: Criminal Justice Reform, A$AP Rocky, and Robocalls
Onstage at last night’s democratic debate, candidates went after each other on their criminal justice records. Things got heated -- and personal. We’ll explain the history here. Meanwhile, rapper A$AP Rocky took the stand in Sweden today. He’s accused of being involved in a fight, and was charged with assault. Rocky says: ‘not guilty.’ And now US officials are backing him up. Also on today’s episode: good news for phone-owners everywhere, and Woodstock 50 organizers face the music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Making The Most Of It: Medicare For All, Interest Rates, and Grasshoppers
Medicare for All was all the rage at last night’s democratic debate. And not necessarily in a good way. We’ll tell you why Dems are divided over it, and what to expect for the second part of the debate tonight. Meanwhile: today, the Fed cut interest rates for the first time in a decade. If you’re asking yourself, ‘why now?’ -- you’re not alone. But the Fed chair is telling everyone: think global. We’ll tell you what this news means for your wallet. Also on today’s episode: how one restaurant is taking ‘make lemons out of lemonade’ seriously. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Keeping Watch: Dems Debate, Capital One Data Breach, and Robot Contacts
Live from Detroit, it’s round two of the 2020 democratic primary debates. You know the drill: ten candidates tonight, and ten more tomorrow. But the dynamics have shifted since round one. We’ll tell you what to keep an eye on. Meanwhile, a woman has been charged in one of the biggest data breaches ever. She allegedly stole info from over 100 million credit card applications - including things like Social Security numbers. If this rings a bell: that’s because massive data breaches are kind of a thing lately. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Also on today’s episode: why Katy Perry is in hot water over “Dark Horse,” and contact lenses that let you pretend you’re James Bond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Next Level: Trump vs. Cities, John Ratcliffe and Greta Thunberg
This weekend President Trump unleashed a Twitter tirade against the city of Baltimore and Maryland Congressman Elijah Cummings. Trump said Charm City is “infested with rodents,” and “dangerous,” reigniting the ‘good country, bad cities’ stereotype. We’ll explain what the numbers say about Baltimore and why Trump could still benefit from his attacks on America's inner cities. Also over the weekend: Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats updated his LinkedIn, announcing he’s stepping down in August. Trump is tapping Congressman John Ratcliffe of Texas to fill the role. We break down why Coats was on the outs with Trump and why Ratcliff's choice is raising some eyebrows. Also on today’s episode: Greta Thunberg’s unconventional plans to get to the US and which summer threats are scarier than Shark Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tour de Force: Russia, OITNB and Cycling
Russia targeted U.S voting systems. Right, we’ve heard that before. From Robert Mueller, for example. He really wanted to talk about Russian interference during his testimony on Capitol Hill this week. But yesterday a new report dropped details about just how extensive it was. Spoiler: it was in all 50 states. That was 2016 - but they’re still at it - and other countries are getting in on the game. We’ll explain. Meanwhile: Up to 150 migrants trying to get to Europe died in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya. Both the EU and Libya are being criticised by human rights organizations to change their controversial treatment of migrants. Also on today’s episode: The real world legacy of the final season of “Orange is the New Black” and fun facts about the hardcore cyclists of the Tour de France. Bon week-end. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Not Messing Around: North Korea, The Death Penalty, Heatwave
North Korea is playing with fire – literally. Just a couple weeks after President Trump visited Kim Jong Un in North Korea and agreed to resume denuclearization talks, North Korea tested two missiles this morning. Back in the US, Attorney General Bill Barr is resuming the death penalty, but he’s making some changes to how it’s implemented. Also on today’s show: Europeans and A/V guys everywhere are sweating it out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Digging deeper: Mueller Testifies, Facebook Settlement, and Self-Care Day
Today, Democrats and Republicans told former special counsel Robert Mueller: ‘have a seat - actually, have two.’ Mueller said he was done talking about his report -- but lawmakers have more questions. We’ll tell you why, and what happened during today’s hearings. Meanwhile, Facebook has to pay $5 billion and change up its privacy rules after an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: how self-care is about more than just relaxing, and a very expensive stroll. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Changes: UK Prime Minister, SNAP Benefits, and Wrestling
The UK has a new prime minister. Between dealing with Brexit and tensions with Iran, Boris Johnson has a long ‘to do’ list to tackle. And he doesn’t even have a full cabinet yet. We’ll explain what lies ahead for Johnson and the UK. Meanwhile, a proposed Trump admin rule could cut millions of people off from food stamp benefits. We’ll break down why the admin wants this rule, and who it affects. Also on today’s episode: more women are being nominated to attend US military academies, and a star who wrestled her way to the top. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The Rise: Tensions with Iran, Puerto Rico Protests and India's Moon Mission
Today, Iranian officials announced that they’ve broken up a CIA spy ring and that they’ve arrested 17 suspected spies. Iran’s claimed this kind of thing before -- and President Trump says reports of arrests aren’t true. But there’s a history here that’ll help you decode today’s headlines. Meanwhile, anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in Puerto Rico today, calling for Puerto Rico’s governor to resign. He says he’s staying put. But lawmakers are already talking impeachment. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: India makes its way to the south side of the moon, and there’s one less place to document on your Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SPECIAL EPISODE: To The Moon And Back
Tomorrow is the 50th anniversary of the “giant leap for mankind.” You may have heard of it. On today’s episode, we break down the Apollo 11 mission: what it took to prepare for the mission, and what actually happened over the course of the eight-day-long journey to the moon and back. There was a lot that could have gone wrong. But it was a complete success. And NASA kept returning to the moon. Astronauts not only brought in a new phase of the space race - they brought back some souvenirs. Some of which are just being studied for the first time. Listen in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Alienated: US and Turkey, FaceApp, and Area 51
Turkey just ordered a new missile defense system from Russia. And now the US is telling Turkey: no F-35 fighter jets for you. Basically, the US is worried selling Turkey the F-35s means giving Russia access to top secret tech. We’ll tell you why that’s a concern for the US, and how it affects the relationship with Turkey, a key NATO ally. Meanwhile, another Russian invention is causing people’s hair to go gray: it’s called FaceApp. Some US lawmakers are warning that your uploaded selfies may end up in the Russian government’s inbox. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: tragedy strikes a famous animation studio in Japan, and why the US government is going there...out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the Outs: Libra in Congress, Planned Parenthood, and Netflix
Today, the head of Facebook’s global cryptocurrency project got a bipartisan grilling from the House Financial Services Committee. Lawmakers have been raising concerns about the crypto, called ‘Libra’: over who will regulate it, how Facebook will handle people’s private financial data, and whether their approach could break antitrust laws. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, the president of Planned Parenthood has been ousted from the job after eight months. The organization reportedly wants make fighting for abortion rights a priority. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why Netflix has gone back and edited an old scene from the show ‘13 Reasons Why,” and how Apple is giving us more ways to express ourselves. PS - If you or someone you know needs it, here’s the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transfer of Power: Asylum Rule, Ursula von der Leyen and Emmy Nominees
The Trump administration has issued a new rule that’ll mean most migrants heading to the US-Mexico border likely won’t be eligible for asylum. The admin says asylum seekers will have to ask other countries first. And those other countries are saying: who, us? Legal experts say this new rule could violate domestic and international law. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, soon-to-be former German defense minister Ursula von der Leyen has been elected the new president of the European Commission. She’s making history as the first woman to hold the job - and she’s got a surprising to-do list. Also on today's episode: just how many Emmy awards ‘Game of Thrones’ is nominated for, and a really big lift(-off.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Doubling Down: Trump Tweets, Puerto Rico, and Prime Day Protests
Over the past few days, President Trump’s sent out a series of tweets about a group of “‘Progressive’ Democrat Congresswomen.” He suggested they should “go back” to the countries they came from. Today, he doubled down. We’ll tell you who President Trump’s talking about and why -- and how people are reacting. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is having a bad case of the Mondays. Hundreds of pages of chats between Governor Ricardo Rosselló and others have leaked. And they’re filled with sexist and derogatory comments. All while Puerto Rico is trying to figure out how to pay off billions of dollars in debt. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why some Amazon workers are boycotting Prime Day, and a new name to know on the nightly news circuit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Incoming: Citizenship Data, ICE raids, and Tropical Storm Barry
President Donald Trump has dropped the idea of adding a citizenship question to the 2020 census. But he says he has a back-up plan to get the data anyway. Which could affect elections across the country. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, Republicans and Dems in Congress are visiting detention camps along the Mexican border - but are coming back with different stories. Today’s hearing comes right before planned ICE raids begin on Sunday. We break it down. Also on today’s episode: a tropical storm makes its way to Louisiana, and a great match at Wimbledon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don’t @ Me: Social Media Summit, Student Loans, and World Population
Today, the White House hosted a social media summit. None of the big players (think: Facebook, Twitter) were reportedly on the guest list. President Donald Trump and his guests have claimed those companies have an anti-conservative bias. We’ll explain what this summit is all about, and why this is a love/hate relationship for the President. Meanwhile, one of the country’s biggest teachers unions is suing the Department of Education. It all comes back to something called the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Plaintiffs say the program is actually violating the Constitution. We’ll give you the details. Also on today’s episode: a candidate for state senate in Delaware is writing history, and we talk about all of humanity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Free Falling: Interest Rates, UK Ambassador’s Resignation, and Ticker Tape
Today, the Federal Reserve’s top guy Jerome Powell spoke. He doesn’t do that much. But when he does - it’s important. Especially when it comes to interest rates. We’ll tell you what you – and your wallet – need to know. Meanwhile, there is drama going down across the pond. (Again.) Some comments the UK ambassador to the US made about President Trump leaked. Now, the ambassador is saying ‘cheerio’ to his post. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: why ticker tape parades are a thing, and the unexpected impacts of tariffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Picture This: ID Photos, Drug Prices, and Emojis
In a new study, researchers at Georgetown University say FBI and ICE agents are giving millions of people ID checks. Their focus: your photo. Congress never gave the OK on this. And now lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are saying ‘cut it out.’ We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, the Trump administration announced a new rule that would make drug companies advertise their prices in TV ads. This rule was supposed to shame drug companies into lowering those prices. But yesterday, a federal judge said ‘you can’t do that.’ We’ll tell you more. Also on today’s episode: the life of the late Ross Perot, and emojis in court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Big One: Jeffrey Epstein, The Census, and the World Cup
Jeffrey Epstein, a multimillionaire money manager, was in a New York federal court today to face sex trafficking charges. The indictment comes a decade after he served a light sentence in a Florida plea deal related to similar charges. Meanwhile down in DC, a court battle over the 2020 Census rages on. The Trump administration still wants to add a question about citizenship to the questionnaire, and is trying to make it happen after a confusing back and forth. Also on today’s episode: California’s waiting for the “Big One,” and what it really means to take home the World Cup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Upping the Ante: Campaign Fundraising, Immigration, and Hot Dogs
‘Tis the season where all the 2020 candidates are letting us know what their campaign bank accounts look like. Some have a lot to brag about. But it isn’t all about the amount of cash – it’s also about who’s ponying up. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, a federal judge says that migrants who illegally crossed the border seeking asylum can’t be held in detention centers indefinitely. Detention centers are already taking a lot of heat – including from the Department of Homeland Security’s internal watchdog. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: the backstory on the Nike sneakers controversy, and how some people plan to get their Fourth of July appetite on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Calls For Action: Border Facilities, Hong Kong, and Women’s World Cup
About a dozen lawmakers took a field trip to Texas yesterday. To visit two border facilities where migrants are being held. And some lawmakers did not like what they saw. Now there are protests being held around the country to close some migrant detention centers. We’ll break down what’s been happening on the border. Meanwhile, protesters in Hong Kong stormed the city’s Legislative Council and occupied the building. This was the latest in a series of protests concerning mainland China’s encroaching power over Hong Kong. We’ll tell you what’s next for the movement. Also on today’s episode: the US is headed to the Women’s World Cup finals on Sunday, and some celestial sights in South America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Visiting Hours: Trump in North Korea, OPEC, and Cori Gauff at Wimbledon
This weekend, President Trump became the first sitting US president to set foot in North Korea. This was Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s first meeting since February, when a summit about nuclear weapons and sanctions fell apart. But now the two say: talks are back on. What next? We’ll get into it. Meanwhile, members of OPEC are at the table in Vienna. To talk oil production. And tensions are high – in part because of the US and Iran. We’ll break it all down for you. Also on today’s episode: why Taylor Swift says Scooter Braun is a threat to her ‘reputation,’ and 15-year-old Cori Gauff’s big first impression at Wimbledon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Heat Is On: Biden and Harris, G20, and the World Cup in Europe
Senator Kamala Harris is getting a lot of attention today after last night’s democratic primary debate. She called out former VP Joe Biden over his record on race. And: busing. There’s a lot of history here -- and for Harris, it’s personal. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, President Trump is talking trade with world leaders at the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan. We’ll tell you how those chats are going -- and why some attendees are doing more than just talking. Also on today’s episode: an all-star on the US Women’s National Soccer Team, which probably needs some a/c right about now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Take Two: SCOTUS, Dems Debate 2.0, and Rapping G20 Grannies
Today, the Supremes dropped the mic on two big issues: partisan gerrymandering and a citizenship question on the census. These rulings really came down to the wire. But they weren’t a simple “yea” or “nay.” We’ll break down what they mean. Meanwhile, we’re halfway through the first 2020 Democratic primary debate. Last night’s candidates covered a lot issues (think: health care and immigration) and there was some daylight between them. But we still have ten more candidates to hear from tonight. We’ll tell you what to watch for. Also on today’s episode: the G20 summit is on, and a certain group of grannies is here for it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Center Stage: 2020 Debates, Mueller’s Return, and Moon Rocks
The first 2020 Democratic primary debate begins tonight in Miami. But don’t forget: this is a two-night event. Featuring a total of 20 candidates. Some you may have already heard of. Others could be trying to make a good first impression. We’ll tell you what to look out for. Meanwhile, former special counsel Robert Mueller is making a comeback. Because Congress. Mueller dropped the mic a few weeks ago and told the world that he’s tapping out. The House Intelligence and Judiciary Committees said ‘not so fast’ – and subpoenaed him to testify. Now he’s saying ‘fine, I’ll come.’ These hearings are going to be huge. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: NYC’s dueling pride marches, and moon rocks are coming out of a time capsule. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s Personal: Sanctions, E. Jean Carroll, and Climate Change
The Trump administration is sanctioning top Iranian officials, including Iran’s Supreme Leader. The US has been sanctioning Iran for a while already, to get them to change course on nukes – but do sanctions ever actually work? We’ll get into it. Meanwhile, writer E. Jean Carroll has accused President Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her back in the mid ‘90s. Her allegation is getting a lot of attention – in part for how little attention it’s getting. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: things are (literally) heating up for 2020 democratic candidates in Miami, and why a certain superfood is so good for you, it’s bad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No Quick Fix: Immigration, Middle East Peace, and Women’s Soccer
Immigration and Customs Enforcement was scheduled to target 2,000 families in raids across the country this weekend. But with hours to spare before the raids: President Trump called them off. For now. This is all happening amid renewed focus on conditions for migrants - especially kids - being housed at the border. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, the US is giving peace in the Middle East another go with a two-day ‘economic workshop’ this week. But the Trump admin isn’t necessarily on everyone’s good side at the moment. We’ll explain why. Also on today’s episode: the USWNT is goals, and a new kind of ‘female Viagra.’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Take It Back: US and Iran, Police on Social Media, and Harry Potter
President Trump says he approved military strikes on Iran planned for last night – but that he called them off with ten minutes to spare. This is the latest move in the rocky relationship between the US and Iran, and it has the world’s attention. We’ll explain the complexities here. Meanwhile, dozens of police officers in Philadelphia have been put on desk duty after a group uncovered public social media posts that were racist, Islamophobic, and misogynistic. But Philly isn’t the only city where police are under fire for this. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: puppy love at Amazon HQ, and your Hogwarts acceptance letter is finally en route. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meet Me In The Middle: China and NK, UK Prime Minister, and Phone Bone
Today, China’s President Xi Jinping and North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a two-day summit with the red-carpet treatment. This is the first time in almost 15 years that a Chinese leader has visited North Korea. And some are saying this is China playing mediator between North Korea and the US. We’ll explain why that’s a big deal. Meanwhile, it’s off to the races for the next UK prime minister. Meet your final two contestants: former UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and current Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. We’ll tell you what to expect going forward. Also on today’s episode: a new UN report says more people are displaced than ever before, and a new 21st century problem is a real pain in the neck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Owning Up: Reparations, Jamal Khashoggi, and Joy Harjo
Hundreds of people showed up to a House subcommittee hearing today on Capitol Hill. The topic? A bill that would create a commission to study slavery and whether reparations for African Americans are in order. We’ll explain the conversation happening around reparations. Meanwhile, a UN investigator has released a new report about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The report says there’s evidence that points to top officials in Saudi Arabia – including the crown prince. We’ll break down what’s new in the report. Also on today’s episode: Joy Harjo is the first Native American US Poet Laureate, and why Adidas may be feeling a little directionless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to Launch: Libra, Trump’s 2020 Campaign, and Boaty McBoatface
It’s only June, but Facebook’s ready for Libra season. The social media giant is about to roll out a new global cryptocurrency called Libra. We’ll explain why Facebook thinks you should turn your $ into ≋. Meanwhile, President Trump will officially announce his re-election campaign tonight at a rally in Orlando. Technically he’s been running ever since he took office in 2017. But there are some nitty-gritty rules sitting presidents are supposed to follow on the campaign trail. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: pride flags abound, and Boaty McBoatface is making waves. Again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Decisions, Decisions: Iran Nuclear Deal, SCOTUS, and Gloria Vanderbilt
The Iran Nuclear Deal is on the rocks. This is the deal Iran, the US and a bunch of major EU and other powers signed back in 2015 to prevent Iran from making a nuclear weapon. Now, Iran’s says it’s about to break one of the promises it made in that deal. We’ll tell you why this is important. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court laid down the law today. We’re breaking down two of the big decisions: double jeopardy and racial gerrymandering. One may impact President Trump’s former campaign chairman, and one is just the first chapter from SCOTUS on the subject. Also on today’s episode: 2020 presidential candidate Cory Booker chatted with theSkimm about a potential question on the upcoming census, and we reflect on the life of the late fashion icon Gloria Vanderbilt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
History Rhymes: the US and Iran, Flint, and Father’s Day
There were explosions on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman this week. The US is pointing the finger at Iran, who’s saying ‘not us.’ These two countries have been going at it for a while – but the implications of this latest fight are global. We’ll break it down. Meanwhile, Michigan prosecutors are dropping criminal charges against officials accused of contributing to the Flint water crisis. But prosecutors say they’re still investigating. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: Dads. We asked you to call in and tell us about the fathers or father figures in your life. Hear what our listeners had to say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fake It Till You Make It: Russia Probe Inquiry, ‘Deepfakes’, and Dads
Special Counsel Robert Mueller dropped the mic a couple weeks ago, but Washington still has some unfinished business with the Russia investigation. The Attorney General has launched an investigation into the original investigation. Pre-Mueller. We’ll tell you more about it – and what it has to do with comments President Trump made on TV last night. Meanwhile, the House Intelligence Committee met today to talk about ‘deepfakes’ - aka manipulated videos that seem real. AI experts warned today: they’re not ready to detect them all. Also on today’s episode: a new poll about dads feeling ‘dad shamed,’ and the Stanley Cup’s post-victory journey. PS: Father’s Day is this Sunday, and we want to hear about the dads or dad figures in your life. Leave a message at 646-461-6370 and you may hear your voice on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Waving Flags: Hong Kong Protests, Executive Privilege, and Pulse
There were massive protests in Hong Kong today over a bill that would allow fugitives to be extradited to mainland China. Hong Kong is technically a semi-autonomous part of China. And protesters say this bill is really about China exerting more control over them. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, President Trump dusted off his executive privilege card over documents related to a new question on the 2020 census. The Trump admin wants to ask people if they’re citizens. And Dems in Congress want to see the docs. We’ll break this down for you. Also on today’s episode: the third anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting, and C-section parties in Brazil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Game Time: ‘Safe Third Country’, Iowa, and Kickoff
The US and Mexico struck a deal on immigration before President Trump could impose tariffs on all Mexican imports. But now, Trump is saying ‘more to come.’ That could have to do with Mexico being named a ‘safe third country’ – something Mexico doesn’t really want. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, 2020 presidential candidates are practically tripping over each other in Iowa. The reason: it’s the first state to say ‘yea’ or ‘nay’ in the presidential primaries. And Iowans want candidates to ‘think local.’ Also on today’s episode: Botswana is the latest African country to decriminalize gay sex, and the US women’s team kicked off its first match in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Everything's Goin' My Way: Mueller Report, Health Care, and Ali Stroker
This week, lawmakers in Congress are nose-deep in a page-turner: the Mueller Report. Mueller’s not talking … but Dems are hearing from some old school political junkies - like President Nixon’s former White House counsel John Dean - and trying to force other people to show up. We'll explain why. Meanwhile, California lawmakers say it’s time for a check-up. Their new budget plan would give some undocumented immigrants state health care coverage - the first state to do so. Also on today’s episode: Broadway actress Ali Stroker made history at the Tony Awards, and Starbucks is trying green on for size. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Flip it and Reverse it: Emissions Rules, Robocallers, and the Women’s World Cup
Major automakers wrote a letter to two of their pen pals: President Trump and CA Gov. Gavin Newsom. They’re asking them to, pretty please, compromise on emissions standards. Before it’s too late. We’ll tell you why the auto industry wants to pump the brakes. Meanwhile, the FCC passed new rules that could make your hotline bling a little less. Because robocallers. Also on today’s episode: the Women’s World Cup kicks today, and NASA hopes your weekend is out of this world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Not Forgotten: D-Day and Today, Hyde Amendment, and Long Weekend Forever
World leaders gathered today to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day, and remember those who fought and those who lost their lives. But the alliances in place since D-Day between the US and Europe are now being tested. We’ll explain how we got here. Meanwhile, 2020 presidential candidate Joe Biden is singling himself out from the rest of the democratic pack in supporting the Hyde Amendment. Which bars the federal government from funding most abortions. We’ll tell you why Biden’s taking heat for backing it. Also on today’s episode: a Gen-Z is making history at the French Open, and the people in the UK want Summer Fridays all year long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Work, Work, Work: Arms Sales, Mexican Tariffs, and a Mass Wedding
The Trump administration wants to sell $8 billion worth of weapons to Saudi Arabia and some other Middle East countries. But many US lawmakers are saying: ‘bad idea.’ We’ll explain why they don’t want this sale to go through, and how they plan to stop it. Meanwhile, Mexico’s foreign minister Marcelo Ebrard is in DC trying to talk the Trump administration down from raising tariffs. We’ll tell you where that debate stands now - it’s taxing. Also on today’s episode: a mass wedding in Israel with a lot of pride, and 600 million reasons to work, work, work, work, work, work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Old Wounds: Tiananmen Square, Cuba, and High Heels
It’s been 30 years since Beijing's Tiananmen Square massacre, in which the Chinese government turned the military on its own people. China doesn’t want to talk about it – but some survivors do. And the US has a lot to say. We’ll explain the complex dynamics here. Meanwhile, if you haven’t booked your summer trip to Cuba yet: you may be too late. The Trump administration is restricting some travel to Cuba. We’ll give you the history on this. Also on today’s episode: the end of Ramadan has Muslims on a lunar watch, and Japanese women are taking a stand … against high heels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Breakin’ Up is Hard to Do: Big Tech, Trump’s UK Visit, and T-Swift
Two major government agencies reportedly have their eyes on Google and Amazon. Because they’ve got antitrust issues. We’ll explain why. Meanwhile, President Trump and the First Lady are across the pond visiting the Royals and UK politicians - but British politics are in a bit of a shambles at the moment. We’ll tell you what you should know. Also on today’s episode: Taylor Swift’s petition for equality, and a (possible) “Jeopardy” spoiler alert. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pressure’s On: Mexico Tariffs, Hollywood Boycotts, and Drake
President Trump is threatening Mexico with tariffs. Because of immigration. While the US, Mexico and Canada are trying to seal the deal on a new trade agreement. We’ll explain what it all means. Meanwhile, some Hollywood studios are threatening to boycott the state of Georgia after its governor signed one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the US. The film industry has brought 90k new jobs to Georgia. But there’s also a precedent here – we’ll break it down. Also on today’s episode: the FDA wants to take the WTF out of CBD, and an NBA superfan is being asked to stop making headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Now You See Me: Israel’s Parliament, Women Suing the FBI, and Spelling
Israel’s parliament has dissolved. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu couldn’t get enough support to form a government, and now the country has to vote all over again.This has never happened before in Israel’s history -- we’ll explain what might be coming next. Meanwhile, 16 women filed a lawsuit alleging that they were discriminated against at Quantico, the FBI’s training ground. Some say they faced a hostile work environment and sexual harassment, and they’re calling out some of the FBI’s top guys. We’ll tell you more. Also on today’s episode: New Zealand is budgeting for well-being, and the Scripps National Spelling Bee finals. T-o-u-g-h. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is This Thing On?: Mueller Speaks, Abortion in Missouri, and Graduation Trees
Special Counsel Robert Mueller turned off his “do not disturb” mode today to give a brief statement. The message: his Russia investigation is officially over and he’s clocking out. He said some words about whether President Trump committed a crime. And went back on silent. We’ll explain. Meanwhile, the last clinic that provides abortions in Missouri might have to stop doing so on Friday. This would make Missouri the first state since 1974 without access to abortion services. We’ll break this down for you. Also on today’s episode: a group that is trying to help farmers deal with stress, and grads with very green thumbs in the Philippines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Extreme Measures: Opioid Crisis, Mount Everest, and Burnout
Oklahoma is taking the pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson to court today. This is the first state trial connected to the opioid crisis ... which has been determined a public health emergency. We’re going to break down how this got started and how Oklahoma hopes to win this case. Meanwhile, Mount Everest is having a deadly climbing season with human traffic jams on the summit. A lot goes into climbing to the “roof of the world.” We’ll explain what factors might be in play here. Also on today’s episode: the World Health Organization says that burnout is a legitimate medical diagnosis and a 100-year-old German woman is diving into politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Do It Yourself: Theresa May, Julian Assange, and $20
British Prime Minister Theresa May is saying “I’m out.” She is only the second woman to hold the position and is leaving after three years – one of the shortest terms for a prime minister in modern times. Her exit - was spurred by Brexit. We’ll explain what’s next for the British mission to leave the EU. Meanwhile, Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has been indicted on 17 new charges for violating the Espionage Act. Journalists are worried about what this could mean for the First Amendment. We’ll explain. Also on today’s episode: same-sex couples in Taiwan are saying “we do,” and there’s a DIY movement to put Harriet Tubman on the $20. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Taking Action: McDonald’s Strikes, HUD and Transgender Rights, and Office Sweaters
Some McDonald’s workers were on strike today … while the company held its annual shareholder meeting. Employees are asking for better pay, more say, union rights - oh and the higher ups addressing recent sexual harassment claims. We’ll tell you more about it. Meanwhile, the Department of Housing and Urban Development introduced a new proposal that would allow homeless shelters to turn away transgender people for religious reasons. And let shelters put transgender women in facilities with men instead of women. We’ll dive into it. Also on today’s episode: 2020 candidate Kirsten Gillibrand came out with a proposal for a “Family Bill of Rights” and a new study that will help defrost the office tension. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Testing Democracy: EU Parliamentary Elections, DC Drama, and Mars 2020
Europeans head to the polls starting tomorrow for the European Parliamentary elections. This is the second-biggest election in the world, and has been a bit of a snoozer in the past. But this year people are watching very closely because of a surge of far-right groups. We’ll explain. Meanwhile in DC, President Trump and Democratic leaders had a short meeting on infrastructure today that didn’t go exactly as planned. We’ll break down why both sides are throwing mud. Also on today’s episode: the Department of Education is breaking down student loan debt by college … and college major, and NASA wants to send your name to the Red Planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The Books: Trump’s Finances, CBD, and 'Milkshaking'
Three House committees want to dive into President Trump’s business financials. Specifically, they want the deets from his accounting firm, Capital One, and Deutsche Bank. Trump and his three oldest children have sued to stop that from happening. We’ll explain the backstory and how judges are weighing in. Meanwhile, a new study says CBD could be the next big thing to treat opioid addictions - specifically heroin. Without creating a new addiction. We’ve got the details. Also on today’s episode: the 100th anniversary of the House of Representatives passing the bill that gave women the right to vote ... and the protesting trend that is taking the UK by milk storm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices