Sarah McCammon

The people close to her that I've spoken to have just talked about the way that she was unflappable. I think someone used the word indefatigable, the way that she represented for many people in her movement, someone who never stopped fighting and someone who persisted even amidst challenges, even amidst these very significant setbacks.

The people close to her that I've spoken to have just talked about the way that she was unflappable. I think someone used the word indefatigable, the way that she represented for many people in her movement, someone who never stopped fighting and someone who persisted even amidst challenges, even amidst these very significant setbacks.

Ultimately, that's something that people like Cecile Richard and the abortion rights movement were not able to prevent despite, you know, many years of efforts to expand access to abortion.

Ultimately, that's something that people like Cecile Richard and the abortion rights movement were not able to prevent despite, you know, many years of efforts to expand access to abortion.

The people close to her that I've spoken to have just talked about the way that she was unflappable. I think someone used the word indefatigable, the way that she represented for many people in her movement, someone who never stopped fighting and someone who persisted even amidst challenges, even amidst these very significant setbacks.

Ultimately, that's something that people like Cecile Richard and the abortion rights movement were not able to prevent despite, you know, many years of efforts to expand access to abortion.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

How we experience time. That's on the TED Radio Hour from NPR. Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around.

How we experience time. That's on the TED Radio Hour from NPR. Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around.

Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

How we experience time. That's on the TED Radio Hour from NPR. Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around.

Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Michael Webb and Jonathan Mahoney were excited for the inauguration, but they're rolling with the change of plans.

Michael Webb and Jonathan Mahoney were excited for the inauguration, but they're rolling with the change of plans.

Webb, who's from Texas, and Mahoney from Massachusetts are in the military and stationed together a few hours from D.C. Edwin Alas traveled from Colorado with his husband Gabriel. Alas says they don't have tickets, but they wanted to come celebrate the new president.

Webb, who's from Texas, and Mahoney from Massachusetts are in the military and stationed together a few hours from D.C. Edwin Alas traveled from Colorado with his husband Gabriel. Alas says they don't have tickets, but they wanted to come celebrate the new president.

Trump will take the oath inside the Capitol Rotunda with many supporters watching from a downtown arena. Sarah McCammon, NPR News, Washington.

Trump will take the oath inside the Capitol Rotunda with many supporters watching from a downtown arena. Sarah McCammon, NPR News, Washington.

So certainly Democrats are up against these limitations you just described. But there are some Democrats, even some of Jeffrey's colleagues, who would like to see a different tone here. I mean, what are they saying that they are doing now?

So certainly Democrats are up against these limitations you just described. But there are some Democrats, even some of Jeffrey's colleagues, who would like to see a different tone here. I mean, what are they saying that they are doing now?

I love that. That's so sweet.

I love that. That's so sweet.

I mean, that said, the Republican majority in the House, though, is very narrow, just three seats. Domenico, we've reported before about how disunified the Republican conference tends to be. Isn't there some room here for Democrats to maneuver?

I mean, that said, the Republican majority in the House, though, is very narrow, just three seats. Domenico, we've reported before about how disunified the Republican conference tends to be. Isn't there some room here for Democrats to maneuver?

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Today on the show, Democrats find themselves in the minority after last fall's elections, and their constituents aren't happy about what they see as the party's lack of action in response to policies they disagree with from President Trump. The Democrats' leader in the House, Hakeem Jeffries of New York, put it this way recently.

Today on the show, Democrats find themselves in the minority after last fall's elections, and their constituents aren't happy about what they see as the party's lack of action in response to policies they disagree with from President Trump. The Democrats' leader in the House, Hakeem Jeffries of New York, put it this way recently.

Okay, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment. And we're back. You know, one thing that I find interesting when thinking about all of this is Republicans, when they're in the minority, they've gotten really good at holding things up. You might say being a bit more obstructionist.

Okay, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment. And we're back. You know, one thing that I find interesting when thinking about all of this is Republicans, when they're in the minority, they've gotten really good at holding things up. You might say being a bit more obstructionist.

They're willing to use the powers of the minority in ways that Democrats don't seem to be willing to do. Domenico, do you get the sense that Democrats might be thinking about that differently now?

They're willing to use the powers of the minority in ways that Democrats don't seem to be willing to do. Domenico, do you get the sense that Democrats might be thinking about that differently now?

But do they have a different philosophy to some extent about that?

But do they have a different philosophy to some extent about that?

So looking at a bit more broadly, I mean, Trump won the election. Republicans took the Senate. They kept the House. And yet a lot of people don't vote in elections. Trump has never had an approval rating above 50 percent. One would think there's some room for Democrats to make inroads here. But, Domenico, is that the case given the way the country's political structures work?

So looking at a bit more broadly, I mean, Trump won the election. Republicans took the Senate. They kept the House. And yet a lot of people don't vote in elections. Trump has never had an approval rating above 50 percent. One would think there's some room for Democrats to make inroads here. But, Domenico, is that the case given the way the country's political structures work?

Barbara, you've been reporting on this. How is that attitude going down with many Democratic voters?

Barbara, you've been reporting on this. How is that attitude going down with many Democratic voters?

Well, and the advantage in the Senate.

Well, and the advantage in the Senate.

All right. We're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Barbara Sprint. I cover Congress.

All right. We're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Barbara Sprint. I cover Congress.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Eastern Time on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025.

Eastern Time on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025.

Now, Trump said in his address to Congress last night, speaking of numbers, that his administration, quote, has launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Is that true?

Now, Trump said in his address to Congress last night, speaking of numbers, that his administration, quote, has launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Is that true?

You know, Mara, is this a situation where the optics of taking some kind of action, whatever it is, will matter more for Trump supporters than whether or not he actually literally delivers on all of his campaign promises for immigration?

You know, Mara, is this a situation where the optics of taking some kind of action, whatever it is, will matter more for Trump supporters than whether or not he actually literally delivers on all of his campaign promises for immigration?

Yeah, let's talk more about that. I mean, Jimena, based on your reporting, if Trump were successful on a large scale, what would that mean for the economy nationally and local economies?

Yeah, let's talk more about that. I mean, Jimena, based on your reporting, if Trump were successful on a large scale, what would that mean for the economy nationally and local economies?

Eastern Time on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025.

Eastern Time on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025.

All right. We talked earlier about the optics of mass deportation, as Trump calls it. But what about the logistics? I mean, he's expressed a desire to deport somewhere in the neighborhood of 11 million people, maybe even more. Is that remotely feasible as the system currently stands?

All right. We talked earlier about the optics of mass deportation, as Trump calls it. But what about the logistics? I mean, he's expressed a desire to deport somewhere in the neighborhood of 11 million people, maybe even more. Is that remotely feasible as the system currently stands?

We'll have more in a moment.

We'll have more in a moment.

And we're back. Now, Jimena, we've talked a lot about deportation, but it's worth noting that there are some kinds of immigration that Trump does support.

And we're back. Now, Jimena, we've talked a lot about deportation, but it's worth noting that there are some kinds of immigration that Trump does support.

Congratulations. Good luck. We hope so. Love is real. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Congratulations. Good luck. We hope so. Love is real. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And Mara, I mean, this isn't totally a new idea, right? But it kind of aligns with Trump's transactional view of how politics are supposed to work.

And Mara, I mean, this isn't totally a new idea, right? But it kind of aligns with Trump's transactional view of how politics are supposed to work.

You know, there's been an appetite going back many years now for some kind of immigration reform in Congress. There have been many efforts toward that end. A deal was in place when President Joe Biden was in office, which Trump essentially torpedoed from afar.

You know, there's been an appetite going back many years now for some kind of immigration reform in Congress. There have been many efforts toward that end. A deal was in place when President Joe Biden was in office, which Trump essentially torpedoed from afar.

Do either of you get the sense that any kind of major legislative reform is possible now or is immigration policy just going to be directed through executive action?

Do either of you get the sense that any kind of major legislative reform is possible now or is immigration policy just going to be directed through executive action?

And today on the show, we take a look at how President Trump's immigration policies are developing so far. Jimena, you've been all over this beat. Immigration, as you know, has always been a major focus for Trump, and it was a really big focus of the 2024 campaign. What's happened so far?

And today on the show, we take a look at how President Trump's immigration policies are developing so far. Jimena, you've been all over this beat. Immigration, as you know, has always been a major focus for Trump, and it was a really big focus of the 2024 campaign. What's happened so far?

Jimena, you've been watching this all unfold. You've been watching Trump begin to implement some of his immigration policy in the first several weeks of his administration. What are you going to have your eyes on in the coming weeks and months?

Jimena, you've been watching this all unfold. You've been watching Trump begin to implement some of his immigration policy in the first several weeks of his administration. What are you going to have your eyes on in the coming weeks and months?

So that's kind of where they're at. Just one more thing I want to mention before we go. Ximena, you mentioned the word fear a couple of times. And that made me think about President Trump's speech to Congress. He said, they heard my words and they chose not to come. You know, we've talked a lot about enforcement, but it seems that part of the strategy is fear, right? It's just simply to protest.

So that's kind of where they're at. Just one more thing I want to mention before we go. Ximena, you mentioned the word fear a couple of times. And that made me think about President Trump's speech to Congress. He said, they heard my words and they chose not to come. You know, we've talked a lot about enforcement, but it seems that part of the strategy is fear, right? It's just simply to protest.

tell people who might otherwise come to this country don't.

tell people who might otherwise come to this country don't.

All right. That's all from us for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

All right. That's all from us for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Yeah, I mean, she was pretty laser focused on this message that Trump is essentially Trump has made all of these promises, but he's not going to be able to deliver on them, especially when it comes to improving the economy.

Yeah, I mean, she was pretty laser focused on this message that Trump is essentially Trump has made all of these promises, but he's not going to be able to deliver on them, especially when it comes to improving the economy.

You know, so you mentioned earlier that she was talking about protecting democracy as a pretty simple message that tests well. You know, She ended her remarks by calling on Americans who oppose Trump to not tune out, to show up to town halls and hold their elected leaders accountable and to work on making progress on issues that they care about, even if it's just one issue, she said.

You know, so you mentioned earlier that she was talking about protecting democracy as a pretty simple message that tests well. You know, She ended her remarks by calling on Americans who oppose Trump to not tune out, to show up to town halls and hold their elected leaders accountable and to work on making progress on issues that they care about, even if it's just one issue, she said.

Is that a message, though, that gets voters excited at this point?

Is that a message, though, that gets voters excited at this point?

Okay, we will leave it there for now. And we will be back in your feeds Wednesday afternoon as normal. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Okay, we will leave it there for now. And we will be back in your feeds Wednesday afternoon as normal. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Yeah. And, you know, some of the Democrats were holding up these preprinted protest signs. They came ready with them that read Musk steals, protect veterans, save Medicaid. And then Trump responded to this big moment by speaking to Democrats directly.

Yeah. And, you know, some of the Democrats were holding up these preprinted protest signs. They came ready with them that read Musk steals, protect veterans, save Medicaid. And then Trump responded to this big moment by speaking to Democrats directly.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And I'm Susan Davis. I cover politics. It is 1147 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. And earlier tonight, President Trump gave a joint address to Congress.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And I'm Susan Davis. I cover politics. It is 1147 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. And earlier tonight, President Trump gave a joint address to Congress.

So after that initial commotion, the rest of Trump's speech read kind of like a laundry list of areas where he is claiming victory so far. Some of Trump's claims, like eliminating fraudulent Social Security spending for people over the age of 150, something he's talked about before that's been debunked repeatedly.

So after that initial commotion, the rest of Trump's speech read kind of like a laundry list of areas where he is claiming victory so far. Some of Trump's claims, like eliminating fraudulent Social Security spending for people over the age of 150, something he's talked about before that's been debunked repeatedly.

And we should mention NPR's team of reporters fact-checked the address in real time, and we have a link to that in our show notes. You know, Asma and Sue, what else stood out to you?

And we should mention NPR's team of reporters fact-checked the address in real time, and we have a link to that in our show notes. You know, Asma and Sue, what else stood out to you?

As soon as the president arrived in the House chamber, the tone and tenor of things was noticeably different than many previous similar speeches. Republicans gave Trump a standing ovation and chanted USA as he approached the lectern. Some Democrats skipped the event altogether, and those who were there were largely silent and seated. That is, until the speech started.

As soon as the president arrived in the House chamber, the tone and tenor of things was noticeably different than many previous similar speeches. Republicans gave Trump a standing ovation and chanted USA as he approached the lectern. Some Democrats skipped the event altogether, and those who were there were largely silent and seated. That is, until the speech started.

OK, let's get to his speech. You know, when it comes to the economy, obviously one of Trump's big themes is tariffs. And no surprise, he talked about that tonight. What did you hear in that part of the speech?

OK, let's get to his speech. You know, when it comes to the economy, obviously one of Trump's big themes is tariffs. And no surprise, he talked about that tonight. What did you hear in that part of the speech?

And he kind of acknowledged that and alluded to the fact that it was tough for farmers the first time around and said, once again, it might be tough in the beginning, but I have to bear with me.

And he kind of acknowledged that and alluded to the fact that it was tough for farmers the first time around and said, once again, it might be tough in the beginning, but I have to bear with me.

Well, another source of that uncertainty for many people is the way that Trump and Elon Musk, who has become part of his inner circle – are reshaping the federal government through Doge. Trump talked about that. He touted that as one of his accomplishments. What did you hear from Trump about what Doge has done so far?

Well, another source of that uncertainty for many people is the way that Trump and Elon Musk, who has become part of his inner circle – are reshaping the federal government through Doge. Trump talked about that. He touted that as one of his accomplishments. What did you hear from Trump about what Doge has done so far?

And, you know, another big theme from Trump tonight and forever is immigration. He took up more than 10 minutes talking about that in this speech. He said his administration, quote, launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Asma, what did you hear there?

And, you know, another big theme from Trump tonight and forever is immigration. He took up more than 10 minutes talking about that in this speech. He said his administration, quote, launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Asma, what did you hear there?

On to another topic from the speech. That's Ukraine. Trump has been very critical of that support. And here's what he said in his speech.

On to another topic from the speech. That's Ukraine. Trump has been very critical of that support. And here's what he said in his speech.

We should note the most widely used tracker of Ukraine aid shows that the U.S. has provided $114 billion since the full-scale Russian invasion three years ago, and Europe has provided $132 billion collectively. And Trump said he's been talking with Ukraine and Russia to find a way to make peace.

We should note the most widely used tracker of Ukraine aid shows that the U.S. has provided $114 billion since the full-scale Russian invasion three years ago, and Europe has provided $132 billion collectively. And Trump said he's been talking with Ukraine and Russia to find a way to make peace.

It was the first time he'd spoken publicly about Ukraine since that meeting with President Zelensky at the White House last week, which ended in a shouting match. What struck you about his comments tonight?

It was the first time he'd spoken publicly about Ukraine since that meeting with President Zelensky at the White House last week, which ended in a shouting match. What struck you about his comments tonight?

So that was early on in Trump's speech when House Speaker Mike Johnson directed the sergeant at arms to remove Congressman Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, from the chamber for interrupting Trump after Trump said he and Republicans had won a mandate to govern. This was quite a moment, wasn't it?

So that was early on in Trump's speech when House Speaker Mike Johnson directed the sergeant at arms to remove Congressman Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, from the chamber for interrupting Trump after Trump said he and Republicans had won a mandate to govern. This was quite a moment, wasn't it?

But as we also talked about earlier this week on the podcast, Trump doesn't have to run free election. It's almost two years until the midterms. And he seems to be happiest playing to his base. And I think we saw During that speech, just how supportive his party was, even as, you know, the other side of the aisle was very silent. All right, it's time for a quick break.

But as we also talked about earlier this week on the podcast, Trump doesn't have to run free election. It's almost two years until the midterms. And he seems to be happiest playing to his base. And I think we saw During that speech, just how supportive his party was, even as, you know, the other side of the aisle was very silent. All right, it's time for a quick break.

And when we come back, the Democrats' response to the president's address.

And when we come back, the Democrats' response to the president's address.

And we're back. As is tradition with these early joint addresses or State of the Union addresses, the minority party delivers an official party response. That came from Michigan Senator Alyssa Slotkin, who had the job for Democrats this year. Sue, just tell us a little bit about Slotkin. Why was she the choice for the rebuttal?

And we're back. As is tradition with these early joint addresses or State of the Union addresses, the minority party delivers an official party response. That came from Michigan Senator Alyssa Slotkin, who had the job for Democrats this year. Sue, just tell us a little bit about Slotkin. Why was she the choice for the rebuttal?

And, you know, typically when we think about something like a summit to end a war, especially a European war, this would be in a place like Switzerland or Norway. So why Saudi Arabia?

And, you know, typically when we think about something like a summit to end a war, especially a European war, this would be in a place like Switzerland or Norway. So why Saudi Arabia?

Right. And Franco, one of the many things Donald Trump said when he was campaigning was that he would end this war within 24 hours of taking office. That, of course, didn't happen. But what is the White House's endgame here?

Right. And Franco, one of the many things Donald Trump said when he was campaigning was that he would end this war within 24 hours of taking office. That, of course, didn't happen. But what is the White House's endgame here?

I'm glad to hear that cookie distribution is still going. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

I'm glad to hear that cookie distribution is still going. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And we should note, I mean, this is a conversation about Ukraine that is happening without the participation of Ukraine.

And we should note, I mean, this is a conversation about Ukraine that is happening without the participation of Ukraine.

And today on the show, the latest on efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Officials from the U.S. and Russia met today in Saudi Arabia in an effort to try and broker a deal. And Greg, that's where we will start. What do we know about these talks?

And today on the show, the latest on efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Officials from the U.S. and Russia met today in Saudi Arabia in an effort to try and broker a deal. And Greg, that's where we will start. What do we know about these talks?

And without Zelensky there. All right. It's time for a break. When we come back, more on how U.S. policy toward Ukraine has shifted in the new administration. And welcome back. I want to talk about the shift in rhetoric from the Biden administration to the Trump administration when it comes to providing aid and military support for Ukraine. Vice President J.D.

And without Zelensky there. All right. It's time for a break. When we come back, more on how U.S. policy toward Ukraine has shifted in the new administration. And welcome back. I want to talk about the shift in rhetoric from the Biden administration to the Trump administration when it comes to providing aid and military support for Ukraine. Vice President J.D.

Vance spoke at the Munich Security Conference last week. As Greg mentioned, I just want to play a bit of that.

Vance spoke at the Munich Security Conference last week. As Greg mentioned, I just want to play a bit of that.

It was part of a larger broadside against what Vance characterized as Europe and European government's stifling of free speech. He suggested the U.S. would be less willing to help countries that were not aligning with his vision of promoting free expression. Now, Franco, this speech has raised alarm bells across Europe, as many took it as a further sign of the U.S. isolating itself.

It was part of a larger broadside against what Vance characterized as Europe and European government's stifling of free speech. He suggested the U.S. would be less willing to help countries that were not aligning with his vision of promoting free expression. Now, Franco, this speech has raised alarm bells across Europe, as many took it as a further sign of the U.S. isolating itself.

What was the White House's objective with this speech?

What was the White House's objective with this speech?

Right. I mean, there's Trump's friendliness with Russia and on the same token, distance from our traditional allies in Europe. What does it mean for Ukraine's security if the U.S. suddenly decides to back off of its support for Ukraine, as we know some Republicans have called for for a long time?

Right. I mean, there's Trump's friendliness with Russia and on the same token, distance from our traditional allies in Europe. What does it mean for Ukraine's security if the U.S. suddenly decides to back off of its support for Ukraine, as we know some Republicans have called for for a long time?

You know, Franco, I was so struck by what you said a moment ago about people in tears in the room as Vice President Vance was speaking. I mean, this is a historic shift. This is a departure from really the international order that's been in place since the end of World War II, shaped largely by the United States. I mean, where do either of you see this going?

You know, Franco, I was so struck by what you said a moment ago about people in tears in the room as Vice President Vance was speaking. I mean, this is a historic shift. This is a departure from really the international order that's been in place since the end of World War II, shaped largely by the United States. I mean, where do either of you see this going?

The idea of spheres of influence for me begs the question of what are those spheres and where are the lines and who draws the boundaries?

The idea of spheres of influence for me begs the question of what are those spheres and where are the lines and who draws the boundaries?

All right. Well, we'll leave it there. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

All right. Well, we'll leave it there. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Okay, we're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Danielle Kurtzleben. I cover the White House.

Okay, we're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Danielle Kurtzleben. I cover the White House.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

The Kentucky Republican was one of the most influential politicians of the modern era. Sue Davis, you've been covering him for years. What is he saying about why he's ready to retire now?

The Kentucky Republican was one of the most influential politicians of the modern era. Sue Davis, you've been covering him for years. What is he saying about why he's ready to retire now?

I mean, what did McConnell say about his relationship with Trump? Because you're both getting at something I think is really interesting, which is he had a complicated relationship. He was never a never-Trumper, right? I mean, he would work with him on many things.

I mean, what did McConnell say about his relationship with Trump? Because you're both getting at something I think is really interesting, which is he had a complicated relationship. He was never a never-Trumper, right? I mean, he would work with him on many things.

But McConnell also represented kind of the old Republican guard, the wing of the party that is almost nonexistent in today's GOP, you could argue.

But McConnell also represented kind of the old Republican guard, the wing of the party that is almost nonexistent in today's GOP, you could argue.

Eastern Time on Thursday, February 20th, 2025.

Eastern Time on Thursday, February 20th, 2025.

And so do you think that McConnell has felt emboldened to push back against Trump in some of these confirmation votes, as you mentioned, because he's on his way out the door? Do you think he would have done that anyways?

And so do you think that McConnell has felt emboldened to push back against Trump in some of these confirmation votes, as you mentioned, because he's on his way out the door? Do you think he would have done that anyways?

One last question. Who might we see running to replace McConnell representing Kentucky in the Senate?

One last question. Who might we see running to replace McConnell representing Kentucky in the Senate?

Love a McCammon fan stamp. That's so nice. Thank you, David. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Love a McCammon fan stamp. That's so nice. Thank you, David. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

So yeah, lots to watch. We're going to say goodbye now to Sue. Thanks for being here. You're welcome. It's time for a quick break. And when we come back, President Trump's new effort to exert control over independent agencies.

So yeah, lots to watch. We're going to say goodbye now to Sue. Thanks for being here. You're welcome. It's time for a quick break. And when we come back, President Trump's new effort to exert control over independent agencies.

And we're back. And we're joined now by White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben. Hey, Danielle. Hey, Sarah. On Tuesday, President Trump signed yet another executive order giving him power over independent federal agencies, which have, by design, long been at a distance from the president's power. Danielle, let's just start with the basics.

And we're back. And we're joined now by White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben. Hey, Danielle. Hey, Sarah. On Tuesday, President Trump signed yet another executive order giving him power over independent federal agencies, which have, by design, long been at a distance from the president's power. Danielle, let's just start with the basics.

What is an independent agency and why should people care about them?

What is an independent agency and why should people care about them?

And just a short time ago, Senator Mitch McConnell announced his retirement on the Senate floor.

And just a short time ago, Senator Mitch McConnell announced his retirement on the Senate floor.

Okay. Tell me more about this order, though. What does it mean these agencies will have to do differently? And how might the president be involved? Well,

Okay. Tell me more about this order, though. What does it mean these agencies will have to do differently? And how might the president be involved? Well,

So many things, Danielle, that Trump has done in his first month in office were things he talked about on the campaign trail. But this one wasn't exactly a campaign slogan. I mean, did he telegraph this move at all ahead of time?

So many things, Danielle, that Trump has done in his first month in office were things he talked about on the campaign trail. But this one wasn't exactly a campaign slogan. I mean, did he telegraph this move at all ahead of time?

We're going to try to get rid of that. Mara, I do want to talk about the politics of this. I mean, these, as we've said, are independent agencies. It means they were set up to be checks and balances for the president, independent from the president. How does this move to control them fit into Trump's larger governing strategy?

We're going to try to get rid of that. Mara, I do want to talk about the politics of this. I mean, these, as we've said, are independent agencies. It means they were set up to be checks and balances for the president, independent from the president. How does this move to control them fit into Trump's larger governing strategy?

And what about legal challenges? I mean, how is the Supreme Court likely to react to this? Right.

And what about legal challenges? I mean, how is the Supreme Court likely to react to this? Right.

So, Asma, like Scott just said, there's been a lot of back and forth here. I mean, what is the White House trying to do? Just sort of bring us up to speed on where they're focusing these tariffs and why.

So, Asma, like Scott just said, there's been a lot of back and forth here. I mean, what is the White House trying to do? Just sort of bring us up to speed on where they're focusing these tariffs and why.

You know, Asma, you just mentioned the Trump administration saying that this is about fairness. But I just want to step back a little further. Both of you, what is Trump's ostensible rationale for doing this?

You know, Asma, you just mentioned the Trump administration saying that this is about fairness. But I just want to step back a little further. Both of you, what is Trump's ostensible rationale for doing this?

Eastern Time on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Eastern Time on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

And, you know, it's not just about goods. It's also about jobs. I want to ask you both about something that U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said on Fox News recently.

And, you know, it's not just about goods. It's also about jobs. I want to ask you both about something that U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said on Fox News recently.

I mean, Scott, help us put this in context. Is it really that simple?

I mean, Scott, help us put this in context. Is it really that simple?

OK, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment.

OK, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment.

And we're back. Scott, you were talking a minute ago about picking winners and losers, which brings me to the question, how are businesses and also how are the markets reacting to all of this?

And we're back. Scott, you were talking a minute ago about picking winners and losers, which brings me to the question, how are businesses and also how are the markets reacting to all of this?

Congratulations. I have no doubt. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. And I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And on today's show, we are looking at the tariffs President Trump has put in place this week and how they're affecting the economy. So we've got NPR's chief economics correspondent, Scott Horsley, with us. Hi, Scott.

Congratulations. I have no doubt. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. And I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And on today's show, we are looking at the tariffs President Trump has put in place this week and how they're affecting the economy. So we've got NPR's chief economics correspondent, Scott Horsley, with us. Hi, Scott.

Yeah. Asma, how much does the White House, how much does President Trump respond to those signals from the business community?

Yeah. Asma, how much does the White House, how much does President Trump respond to those signals from the business community?

OK, we've talked a bunch about businesses and how they're responding. But what about the countries that are being targeted with these tariffs? I mean, I'm thinking about Canada, which has, of course, been for such a long time such a close U.S.

OK, we've talked a bunch about businesses and how they're responding. But what about the countries that are being targeted with these tariffs? I mean, I'm thinking about Canada, which has, of course, been for such a long time such a close U.S.

Always good to have you. You know, just remind us, there's been so much tariff talk from Trump, but what has actually been put in place so far?

Always good to have you. You know, just remind us, there's been so much tariff talk from Trump, but what has actually been put in place so far?

All right. I think we're going to leave it there for today. Scott Horsley, so good to have you with us. Thank you for being here.

All right. I think we're going to leave it there for today. Scott Horsley, so good to have you with us. Thank you for being here.

We'll be back tomorrow with the Weekly Roundup. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

We'll be back tomorrow with the Weekly Roundup. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Before we get into some of the nitty gritty here, I just want to take a broader look. What does Trump's approval rating look like overall?

Before we get into some of the nitty gritty here, I just want to take a broader look. What does Trump's approval rating look like overall?

And Mara, I mean, this is better than where Trump was when he left office in 2021, right?

And Mara, I mean, this is better than where Trump was when he left office in 2021, right?

Right. And he stressed that during the campaign because he knew what we knew, which is that voters were saying again and again that the economy was, if not their top issue, one of their very top issues. You know, Domenico, when you look at the numbers, though, it's so interesting that he just got elected largely on this issue. Fifty seven percent of voters think now that prices are going to go up.

Right. And he stressed that during the campaign because he knew what we knew, which is that voters were saying again and again that the economy was, if not their top issue, one of their very top issues. You know, Domenico, when you look at the numbers, though, it's so interesting that he just got elected largely on this issue. Fifty seven percent of voters think now that prices are going to go up.

How does that break down, though, along party lines?

How does that break down, though, along party lines?

So his supporters are still happy and optimistic. But, you know, the rest of the country is worried about prices. I mean, does any of this matter, though? He doesn't have to run for reelection. The midterms are still a couple of years away.

So his supporters are still happy and optimistic. But, you know, the rest of the country is worried about prices. I mean, does any of this matter, though? He doesn't have to run for reelection. The midterms are still a couple of years away.

Eastern Time on Monday, March 3rd, 2025.

Eastern Time on Monday, March 3rd, 2025.

OK, before we take a break, we have to talk about Elon Musk and Doge. I mean, Mara, I think, mentioned a moment ago the just enormous reshaping of the federal government that the Trump administration is trying to do. A lot of that is being led by Elon Musk. How are people feeling about Musk and Doge?

OK, before we take a break, we have to talk about Elon Musk and Doge. I mean, Mara, I think, mentioned a moment ago the just enormous reshaping of the federal government that the Trump administration is trying to do. A lot of that is being led by Elon Musk. How are people feeling about Musk and Doge?

We'll have more in just a moment. And welcome back. Some of the biggest news last week was the meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two had that major, very public dispute at the White House over policy related to U.S. support for Ukraine in the war with Russia, which has entered its third year.

We'll have more in just a moment. And welcome back. Some of the biggest news last week was the meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two had that major, very public dispute at the White House over policy related to U.S. support for Ukraine in the war with Russia, which has entered its third year.

18 months is a great age, too, because you don't have to usually train them to do everything.

18 months is a great age, too, because you don't have to usually train them to do everything.

So, Domenico, the poll was taken, we should say, before that event. But what do the poll numbers tell us about how Americans have been feeling about Ukraine?

So, Domenico, the poll was taken, we should say, before that event. But what do the poll numbers tell us about how Americans have been feeling about Ukraine?

Right. So most Americans are saying keep it where it is in terms of the amount of support or even increase it. Mara, what do you make of that breakdown?

Right. So most Americans are saying keep it where it is in terms of the amount of support or even increase it. Mara, what do you make of that breakdown?

Does it matter, though, again, and does it shape Trump's policy at all?

Does it matter, though, again, and does it shape Trump's policy at all?

I was wondering about that.

I was wondering about that.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

I want to close by asking you both about another item in that poll that caught my eye. It asked whether or not the nation's system of checks and balances, which is, of course, a fundamental part of the American system of government, whether or not that's working. And most people, a majority said they don't think it is.

I want to close by asking you both about another item in that poll that caught my eye. It asked whether or not the nation's system of checks and balances, which is, of course, a fundamental part of the American system of government, whether or not that's working. And most people, a majority said they don't think it is.

Although here again, there's a partisan divide in how they look at that question. So what does it mean for the future of the country if Americans don't think the system is functioning as it was designed?

Although here again, there's a partisan divide in how they look at that question. So what does it mean for the future of the country if Americans don't think the system is functioning as it was designed?

Today on the show, a pulse check from the latest NPR PBS News Marist poll. How are Americans reacting and responding to President Trump's policies so far? And is he making any headway on one of the chief messages of his campaign, which was, of course, addressing high costs and economic concerns? Domenico, we're going to start with you.

Today on the show, a pulse check from the latest NPR PBS News Marist poll. How are Americans reacting and responding to President Trump's policies so far? And is he making any headway on one of the chief messages of his campaign, which was, of course, addressing high costs and economic concerns? Domenico, we're going to start with you.

And we are going to leave it there for today. Just a programming note, we will be in your feed late tomorrow night. That's because President Trump is addressing a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening. You can hear that live on your NPR station or on the NPR app beginning at 9 p.m. Eastern time. And we will be around after that with analysis and takeaways from the speech. I'm Sarah McCammon.

And we are going to leave it there for today. Just a programming note, we will be in your feed late tomorrow night. That's because President Trump is addressing a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening. You can hear that live on your NPR station or on the NPR app beginning at 9 p.m. Eastern time. And we will be around after that with analysis and takeaways from the speech. I'm Sarah McCammon.

I cover politics.

I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

So, Asma, like Scott just said, there's been a lot of back and forth here. I mean, what is the White House trying to do? Just sort of bring us up to speed on where they're focusing these tariffs and why.

You know, Asma, you just mentioned the Trump administration saying that this is about fairness. But I just want to step back a little further. Both of you, what is Trump's ostensible rationale for doing this?

Eastern Time on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

And, you know, it's not just about goods. It's also about jobs. I want to ask you both about something that U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said on Fox News recently.

I mean, Scott, help us put this in context. Is it really that simple?

OK, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment.

And we're back. Scott, you were talking a minute ago about picking winners and losers, which brings me to the question, how are businesses and also how are the markets reacting to all of this?

Congratulations. I have no doubt. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. And I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And on today's show, we are looking at the tariffs President Trump has put in place this week and how they're affecting the economy. So we've got NPR's chief economics correspondent, Scott Horsley, with us. Hi, Scott.

Yeah. Asma, how much does the White House, how much does President Trump respond to those signals from the business community?

OK, we've talked a bunch about businesses and how they're responding. But what about the countries that are being targeted with these tariffs? I mean, I'm thinking about Canada, which has, of course, been for such a long time such a close U.S.

Always good to have you. You know, just remind us, there's been so much tariff talk from Trump, but what has actually been put in place so far?

All right. I think we're going to leave it there for today. Scott Horsley, so good to have you with us. Thank you for being here.

We'll be back tomorrow with the Weekly Roundup. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Now, Trump said in his address to Congress last night, speaking of numbers, that his administration, quote, has launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Is that true?

You know, Mara, is this a situation where the optics of taking some kind of action, whatever it is, will matter more for Trump supporters than whether or not he actually literally delivers on all of his campaign promises for immigration?

Yeah, let's talk more about that. I mean, Jimena, based on your reporting, if Trump were successful on a large scale, what would that mean for the economy nationally and local economies?

Eastern Time on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025.

All right. We talked earlier about the optics of mass deportation, as Trump calls it. But what about the logistics? I mean, he's expressed a desire to deport somewhere in the neighborhood of 11 million people, maybe even more. Is that remotely feasible as the system currently stands?

We'll have more in a moment.

And we're back. Now, Jimena, we've talked a lot about deportation, but it's worth noting that there are some kinds of immigration that Trump does support.

Congratulations. Good luck. We hope so. Love is real. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And Mara, I mean, this isn't totally a new idea, right? But it kind of aligns with Trump's transactional view of how politics are supposed to work.

You know, there's been an appetite going back many years now for some kind of immigration reform in Congress. There have been many efforts toward that end. A deal was in place when President Joe Biden was in office, which Trump essentially torpedoed from afar.

Do either of you get the sense that any kind of major legislative reform is possible now or is immigration policy just going to be directed through executive action?

And today on the show, we take a look at how President Trump's immigration policies are developing so far. Jimena, you've been all over this beat. Immigration, as you know, has always been a major focus for Trump, and it was a really big focus of the 2024 campaign. What's happened so far?

Jimena, you've been watching this all unfold. You've been watching Trump begin to implement some of his immigration policy in the first several weeks of his administration. What are you going to have your eyes on in the coming weeks and months?

So that's kind of where they're at. Just one more thing I want to mention before we go. Ximena, you mentioned the word fear a couple of times. And that made me think about President Trump's speech to Congress. He said, they heard my words and they chose not to come. You know, we've talked a lot about enforcement, but it seems that part of the strategy is fear, right? It's just simply to protest.

tell people who might otherwise come to this country don't.

All right. That's all from us for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Yeah, I mean, she was pretty laser focused on this message that Trump is essentially Trump has made all of these promises, but he's not going to be able to deliver on them, especially when it comes to improving the economy.

You know, so you mentioned earlier that she was talking about protecting democracy as a pretty simple message that tests well. You know, She ended her remarks by calling on Americans who oppose Trump to not tune out, to show up to town halls and hold their elected leaders accountable and to work on making progress on issues that they care about, even if it's just one issue, she said.

Is that a message, though, that gets voters excited at this point?

Okay, we will leave it there for now. And we will be back in your feeds Wednesday afternoon as normal. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Yeah. And, you know, some of the Democrats were holding up these preprinted protest signs. They came ready with them that read Musk steals, protect veterans, save Medicaid. And then Trump responded to this big moment by speaking to Democrats directly.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Asma Khalid. I cover the White House. And I'm Susan Davis. I cover politics. It is 1147 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. And earlier tonight, President Trump gave a joint address to Congress.

So after that initial commotion, the rest of Trump's speech read kind of like a laundry list of areas where he is claiming victory so far. Some of Trump's claims, like eliminating fraudulent Social Security spending for people over the age of 150, something he's talked about before that's been debunked repeatedly.

And we should mention NPR's team of reporters fact-checked the address in real time, and we have a link to that in our show notes. You know, Asma and Sue, what else stood out to you?

As soon as the president arrived in the House chamber, the tone and tenor of things was noticeably different than many previous similar speeches. Republicans gave Trump a standing ovation and chanted USA as he approached the lectern. Some Democrats skipped the event altogether, and those who were there were largely silent and seated. That is, until the speech started.

OK, let's get to his speech. You know, when it comes to the economy, obviously one of Trump's big themes is tariffs. And no surprise, he talked about that tonight. What did you hear in that part of the speech?

And he kind of acknowledged that and alluded to the fact that it was tough for farmers the first time around and said, once again, it might be tough in the beginning, but I have to bear with me.

Well, another source of that uncertainty for many people is the way that Trump and Elon Musk, who has become part of his inner circle – are reshaping the federal government through Doge. Trump talked about that. He touted that as one of his accomplishments. What did you hear from Trump about what Doge has done so far?

And, you know, another big theme from Trump tonight and forever is immigration. He took up more than 10 minutes talking about that in this speech. He said his administration, quote, launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history. Asma, what did you hear there?

On to another topic from the speech. That's Ukraine. Trump has been very critical of that support. And here's what he said in his speech.

We should note the most widely used tracker of Ukraine aid shows that the U.S. has provided $114 billion since the full-scale Russian invasion three years ago, and Europe has provided $132 billion collectively. And Trump said he's been talking with Ukraine and Russia to find a way to make peace.

It was the first time he'd spoken publicly about Ukraine since that meeting with President Zelensky at the White House last week, which ended in a shouting match. What struck you about his comments tonight?

So that was early on in Trump's speech when House Speaker Mike Johnson directed the sergeant at arms to remove Congressman Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, from the chamber for interrupting Trump after Trump said he and Republicans had won a mandate to govern. This was quite a moment, wasn't it?

But as we also talked about earlier this week on the podcast, Trump doesn't have to run free election. It's almost two years until the midterms. And he seems to be happiest playing to his base. And I think we saw During that speech, just how supportive his party was, even as, you know, the other side of the aisle was very silent. All right, it's time for a quick break.

And when we come back, the Democrats' response to the president's address.

And we're back. As is tradition with these early joint addresses or State of the Union addresses, the minority party delivers an official party response. That came from Michigan Senator Alyssa Slotkin, who had the job for Democrats this year. Sue, just tell us a little bit about Slotkin. Why was she the choice for the rebuttal?

Before we get into some of the nitty gritty here, I just want to take a broader look. What does Trump's approval rating look like overall?

And Mara, I mean, this is better than where Trump was when he left office in 2021, right?

Right. And he stressed that during the campaign because he knew what we knew, which is that voters were saying again and again that the economy was, if not their top issue, one of their very top issues. You know, Domenico, when you look at the numbers, though, it's so interesting that he just got elected largely on this issue. Fifty seven percent of voters think now that prices are going to go up.

How does that break down, though, along party lines?

So his supporters are still happy and optimistic. But, you know, the rest of the country is worried about prices. I mean, does any of this matter, though? He doesn't have to run for reelection. The midterms are still a couple of years away.

Eastern Time on Monday, March 3rd, 2025.

OK, before we take a break, we have to talk about Elon Musk and Doge. I mean, Mara, I think, mentioned a moment ago the just enormous reshaping of the federal government that the Trump administration is trying to do. A lot of that is being led by Elon Musk. How are people feeling about Musk and Doge?

We'll have more in just a moment. And welcome back. Some of the biggest news last week was the meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two had that major, very public dispute at the White House over policy related to U.S. support for Ukraine in the war with Russia, which has entered its third year.

18 months is a great age, too, because you don't have to usually train them to do everything.

So, Domenico, the poll was taken, we should say, before that event. But what do the poll numbers tell us about how Americans have been feeling about Ukraine?

Right. So most Americans are saying keep it where it is in terms of the amount of support or even increase it. Mara, what do you make of that breakdown?

Does it matter, though, again, and does it shape Trump's policy at all?

I was wondering about that.

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

I want to close by asking you both about another item in that poll that caught my eye. It asked whether or not the nation's system of checks and balances, which is, of course, a fundamental part of the American system of government, whether or not that's working. And most people, a majority said they don't think it is.

Although here again, there's a partisan divide in how they look at that question. So what does it mean for the future of the country if Americans don't think the system is functioning as it was designed?

Today on the show, a pulse check from the latest NPR PBS News Marist poll. How are Americans reacting and responding to President Trump's policies so far? And is he making any headway on one of the chief messages of his campaign, which was, of course, addressing high costs and economic concerns? Domenico, we're going to start with you.

And we are going to leave it there for today. Just a programming note, we will be in your feed late tomorrow night. That's because President Trump is addressing a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening. You can hear that live on your NPR station or on the NPR app beginning at 9 p.m. Eastern time. And we will be around after that with analysis and takeaways from the speech. I'm Sarah McCammon.

I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Okay, we're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Danielle Kurtzleben. I cover the White House.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

The Kentucky Republican was one of the most influential politicians of the modern era. Sue Davis, you've been covering him for years. What is he saying about why he's ready to retire now?

I mean, what did McConnell say about his relationship with Trump? Because you're both getting at something I think is really interesting, which is he had a complicated relationship. He was never a never-Trumper, right? I mean, he would work with him on many things.

But McConnell also represented kind of the old Republican guard, the wing of the party that is almost nonexistent in today's GOP, you could argue.

Eastern Time on Thursday, February 20th, 2025.

And so do you think that McConnell has felt emboldened to push back against Trump in some of these confirmation votes, as you mentioned, because he's on his way out the door? Do you think he would have done that anyways?

One last question. Who might we see running to replace McConnell representing Kentucky in the Senate?

Love a McCammon fan stamp. That's so nice. Thank you, David. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

So yeah, lots to watch. We're going to say goodbye now to Sue. Thanks for being here. You're welcome. It's time for a quick break. And when we come back, President Trump's new effort to exert control over independent agencies.

And we're back. And we're joined now by White House correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben. Hey, Danielle. Hey, Sarah. On Tuesday, President Trump signed yet another executive order giving him power over independent federal agencies, which have, by design, long been at a distance from the president's power. Danielle, let's just start with the basics.

What is an independent agency and why should people care about them?

And just a short time ago, Senator Mitch McConnell announced his retirement on the Senate floor.

Okay. Tell me more about this order, though. What does it mean these agencies will have to do differently? And how might the president be involved? Well,

So many things, Danielle, that Trump has done in his first month in office were things he talked about on the campaign trail. But this one wasn't exactly a campaign slogan. I mean, did he telegraph this move at all ahead of time?

We're going to try to get rid of that. Mara, I do want to talk about the politics of this. I mean, these, as we've said, are independent agencies. It means they were set up to be checks and balances for the president, independent from the president. How does this move to control them fit into Trump's larger governing strategy?

And what about legal challenges? I mean, how is the Supreme Court likely to react to this? Right.

So certainly Democrats are up against these limitations you just described. But there are some Democrats, even some of Jeffrey's colleagues, who would like to see a different tone here. I mean, what are they saying that they are doing now?

I love that. That's so sweet.

I mean, that said, the Republican majority in the House, though, is very narrow, just three seats. Domenico, we've reported before about how disunified the Republican conference tends to be. Isn't there some room here for Democrats to maneuver?

Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

Today on the show, Democrats find themselves in the minority after last fall's elections, and their constituents aren't happy about what they see as the party's lack of action in response to policies they disagree with from President Trump. The Democrats' leader in the House, Hakeem Jeffries of New York, put it this way recently.

Okay, it's time for a quick break. We'll have more in just a moment. And we're back. You know, one thing that I find interesting when thinking about all of this is Republicans, when they're in the minority, they've gotten really good at holding things up. You might say being a bit more obstructionist.

They're willing to use the powers of the minority in ways that Democrats don't seem to be willing to do. Domenico, do you get the sense that Democrats might be thinking about that differently now?

But do they have a different philosophy to some extent about that?

So looking at a bit more broadly, I mean, Trump won the election. Republicans took the Senate. They kept the House. And yet a lot of people don't vote in elections. Trump has never had an approval rating above 50 percent. One would think there's some room for Democrats to make inroads here. But, Domenico, is that the case given the way the country's political structures work?

Barbara, you've been reporting on this. How is that attitude going down with many Democratic voters?

Well, and the advantage in the Senate.

All right. We're going to leave it there for today. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics. I'm Barbara Sprint. I cover Congress.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Eastern Time on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025.

And, you know, typically when we think about something like a summit to end a war, especially a European war, this would be in a place like Switzerland or Norway. So why Saudi Arabia?

Right. And Franco, one of the many things Donald Trump said when he was campaigning was that he would end this war within 24 hours of taking office. That, of course, didn't happen. But what is the White House's endgame here?

I'm glad to hear that cookie distribution is still going. Hey there, it's the NPR Politics Podcast. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And we should note, I mean, this is a conversation about Ukraine that is happening without the participation of Ukraine.

And today on the show, the latest on efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Officials from the U.S. and Russia met today in Saudi Arabia in an effort to try and broker a deal. And Greg, that's where we will start. What do we know about these talks?

And without Zelensky there. All right. It's time for a break. When we come back, more on how U.S. policy toward Ukraine has shifted in the new administration. And welcome back. I want to talk about the shift in rhetoric from the Biden administration to the Trump administration when it comes to providing aid and military support for Ukraine. Vice President J.D.

Vance spoke at the Munich Security Conference last week. As Greg mentioned, I just want to play a bit of that.

It was part of a larger broadside against what Vance characterized as Europe and European government's stifling of free speech. He suggested the U.S. would be less willing to help countries that were not aligning with his vision of promoting free expression. Now, Franco, this speech has raised alarm bells across Europe, as many took it as a further sign of the U.S. isolating itself.

What was the White House's objective with this speech?

Right. I mean, there's Trump's friendliness with Russia and on the same token, distance from our traditional allies in Europe. What does it mean for Ukraine's security if the U.S. suddenly decides to back off of its support for Ukraine, as we know some Republicans have called for for a long time?

You know, Franco, I was so struck by what you said a moment ago about people in tears in the room as Vice President Vance was speaking. I mean, this is a historic shift. This is a departure from really the international order that's been in place since the end of World War II, shaped largely by the United States. I mean, where do either of you see this going?

The idea of spheres of influence for me begs the question of what are those spheres and where are the lines and who draws the boundaries?

All right. Well, we'll leave it there. I'm Sarah McCammon. I cover politics.

And thank you for listening to the NPR Politics Podcast.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Crews in Ukraine are cleaning up following a deadly attack on Christmas Day. Moscow launched some 70 missiles and more than 100 drones packed with explosives. They appeared to target Ukraine's energy grid. NPR's Brian Mann joins us now from Kiev. Hi, Brian.

Crews in Ukraine are cleaning up following a deadly attack on Christmas Day. Moscow launched some 70 missiles and more than 100 drones packed with explosives. They appeared to target Ukraine's energy grid. NPR's Brian Mann joins us now from Kiev. Hi, Brian.

So tell us about this Russian attack. What made it through Ukraine's air defenses?

So tell us about this Russian attack. What made it through Ukraine's air defenses?

This is now the third winter of the war there. And whenever it gets cold, Russia seems to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure. How well is it holding up?

This is now the third winter of the war there. And whenever it gets cold, Russia seems to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure. How well is it holding up?

A Russian attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure leaves thousands of people without heat in the winter's cold, and it's not the first time. We hear what Ukrainians have to say about the attack on Christmas Day. I'm Sarah McCammon, and this is Up First from NPR News. Automakers are trying to adapt to seismic changes in their industry.

A Russian attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure leaves thousands of people without heat in the winter's cold, and it's not the first time. We hear what Ukrainians have to say about the attack on Christmas Day. I'm Sarah McCammon, and this is Up First from NPR News. Automakers are trying to adapt to seismic changes in their industry.

And Brian, what are these attacks meaning for people's daily lives there in Ukraine?

And Brian, what are these attacks meaning for people's daily lives there in Ukraine?

Now, just before Christmas, you visited the front lines in eastern Ukraine, where the fighting is the most intense. How are things there?

Now, just before Christmas, you visited the front lines in eastern Ukraine, where the fighting is the most intense. How are things there?

Why some companies might not make it through the transition. And the holiday season in Nigeria is muted this year against the backdrop of an economic crisis. Reforms praised by Western institutions have led to crushing inflation. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

Why some companies might not make it through the transition. And the holiday season in Nigeria is muted this year against the backdrop of an economic crisis. Reforms praised by Western institutions have led to crushing inflation. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

That's NPR's Brian Mann in Kyiv. Thanks so much.

That's NPR's Brian Mann in Kyiv. Thanks so much.

Hey there. Hey, Sarah. So these are two really well-known automakers with very long histories and reputations. Why would they want to merge?

Hey there. Hey, Sarah. So these are two really well-known automakers with very long histories and reputations. Why would they want to merge?

And not only that, right, but presumably a merger would also make these companies, both of which are based in Japan, more competitive against Chinese automakers. Why is that important? Yeah.

And not only that, right, but presumably a merger would also make these companies, both of which are based in Japan, more competitive against Chinese automakers. Why is that important? Yeah.

You know, there was a time back in the 1980s when Japan was really emerging as a global force in the auto sector. Are Chinese companies now stepping into that kind of role in the industry?

You know, there was a time back in the 1980s when Japan was really emerging as a global force in the auto sector. Are Chinese companies now stepping into that kind of role in the industry?

That's NPR's Raphael Nam. Thank you so much.

That's NPR's Raphael Nam. Thank you so much.

In Nigeria, the holidays are less festive this year as the country is in the grip of one of its worst economic crises in decades. The government imposed a set of controversial economic reforms that critics say have only made poverty worse. And despite recent quarters of economic growth, inflation has soared. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu joins us now. Hi there.

In Nigeria, the holidays are less festive this year as the country is in the grip of one of its worst economic crises in decades. The government imposed a set of controversial economic reforms that critics say have only made poverty worse. And despite recent quarters of economic growth, inflation has soared. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu joins us now. Hi there.

So just paint a picture for me. How difficult is the economy for people right now?

So just paint a picture for me. How difficult is the economy for people right now?

Yeah, just an absolutely tragic example of how these economic struggles are hurting people. But what is the underlying cause of the economic situation?

Yeah, just an absolutely tragic example of how these economic struggles are hurting people. But what is the underlying cause of the economic situation?

So, Emmanuel, what is the government doing to soften that blow that you just mentioned for the people in Nigeria?

So, Emmanuel, what is the government doing to soften that blow that you just mentioned for the people in Nigeria?

NPR West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu, thanks so much.

NPR West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu, thanks so much.

And that's Up First for Thursday, December 26th. I'm Sarah McCammon. For your next listen, why not consider Consider This from NPR. We here at Up First give you the three big stories of the day. Our Consider This colleagues take a different approach. They dive into a single news story and what it means for you in just 15 minutes. Listen now on the NPR app or wherever you get your podcasts.

And that's Up First for Thursday, December 26th. I'm Sarah McCammon. For your next listen, why not consider Consider This from NPR. We here at Up First give you the three big stories of the day. Our Consider This colleagues take a different approach. They dive into a single news story and what it means for you in just 15 minutes. Listen now on the NPR app or wherever you get your podcasts.

Today's episode of Up First was edited by Peter Granitz, Emily Kopp, Miguel Macias, Lisa Thompson, and Alice Wolfley. It was produced by Ziad Butch, Nia Dumas, and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Josephine Neoni, and our technical director is Carly Strange. Join us again tomorrow.

Today's episode of Up First was edited by Peter Granitz, Emily Kopp, Miguel Macias, Lisa Thompson, and Alice Wolfley. It was produced by Ziad Butch, Nia Dumas, and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Josephine Neoni, and our technical director is Carly Strange. Join us again tomorrow.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

On NPR's ThruLine... Witnesses were ending up dead.

On NPR's ThruLine... Witnesses were ending up dead.

Find NPR's ThruLine wherever you get your podcasts.

Find NPR's ThruLine wherever you get your podcasts.

When Malcolm Gladwell presented NPR's Throughline podcast with a Peabody Award, he praised it for its historical and moral clarity. On Throughline, we take you back in time to the origins of what's in the news, like presidential power, aging, and evangelicalism. Time travel with us every week on the Throughline podcast from NPR.

When Malcolm Gladwell presented NPR's Throughline podcast with a Peabody Award, he praised it for its historical and moral clarity. On Throughline, we take you back in time to the origins of what's in the news, like presidential power, aging, and evangelicalism. Time travel with us every week on the Throughline podcast from NPR.

On the Planet Money podcast, you've seen them, those labels that say made in China or made in France. But what do they really mean?

On the Planet Money podcast, you've seen them, those labels that say made in China or made in France. But what do they really mean?

We dig into the delightfully convoluted rules behind country of origin, what makes, say, a Chinese product Chinese, and how companies facing tariffs are getting creative. From Planet Money on NPR, wherever you get your podcasts.

We dig into the delightfully convoluted rules behind country of origin, what makes, say, a Chinese product Chinese, and how companies facing tariffs are getting creative. From Planet Money on NPR, wherever you get your podcasts.

George Wendt.

George Wendt.

Nuclear dome.

Nuclear dome.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Evie Stone is our senior supervising editor, Sarah Lucy Oliver is our executive producer, and Jim Kane is our deputy managing editor.

Evie Stone is our senior supervising editor, Sarah Lucy Oliver is our executive producer, and Jim Kane is our deputy managing editor.

For more news, interviews, sports, and music, you can tune in to Weekend Edition on your radio. Go to stations.npr.org to find your local NPR station.

For more news, interviews, sports, and music, you can tune in to Weekend Edition on your radio. Go to stations.npr.org to find your local NPR station.

Here's a question that's become something of a refrain over the last several weeks. Is the U.S. in a constitutional crisis?

Here's a question that's become something of a refrain over the last several weeks. Is the U.S. in a constitutional crisis?

President Trump speaking yesterday at the White House. And joining us now is NPR senior contributor Ron Elving. Hey, Ron.

President Trump speaking yesterday at the White House. And joining us now is NPR senior contributor Ron Elving. Hey, Ron.

So to that question that keeps getting invoked, what do you say, Ron, is a constitutional crisis at hand?

So to that question that keeps getting invoked, what do you say, Ron, is a constitutional crisis at hand?

So sticking with immigration for a second, there were some notable cuts announced yesterday to a division within the Department of Homeland Security or DHS. What can you tell us about those?

So sticking with immigration for a second, there were some notable cuts announced yesterday to a division within the Department of Homeland Security or DHS. What can you tell us about those?

That's because what were once seen as minor visa violations are now triggering major scrutiny from immigration officials.

That's because what were once seen as minor visa violations are now triggering major scrutiny from immigration officials.

Now, I think it's worth noting it has not even been a week since members of the Trump administration and the Doge team took over the U.S. Institute of Peace, which is a congressionally funded think tank. Where is Congress in all of this?

Now, I think it's worth noting it has not even been a week since members of the Trump administration and the Doge team took over the U.S. Institute of Peace, which is a congressionally funded think tank. Where is Congress in all of this?

That's NPR's Ron Elving. Thanks so much for your time, Ron.

That's NPR's Ron Elving. Thanks so much for your time, Ron.

If you have a green card or a valid visa, getting into the U.S. is usually straightforward.

If you have a green card or a valid visa, getting into the U.S. is usually straightforward.

But lately, officers have stepped up their questions and sent some people with apparently minor visa violations to detention centers.

But lately, officers have stepped up their questions and sent some people with apparently minor visa violations to detention centers.

Sudan's army took control of the presidential palace on Friday after days of intense fighting with the paramilitary rapid support forces known as RSF.

Sudan's army took control of the presidential palace on Friday after days of intense fighting with the paramilitary rapid support forces known as RSF.

Fighting continues across Sudan, but this is likely to be a key turning point. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu has been covering this and joins us now. Thanks for being with us today.

Fighting continues across Sudan, but this is likely to be a key turning point. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu has been covering this and joins us now. Thanks for being with us today.

So if you could, just tell us more about what happened in the Capitol yesterday.

So if you could, just tell us more about what happened in the Capitol yesterday.

So this seems at least like a major symbolic victory. But how does this change the course of this war? Is it now closer to an end?

So this seems at least like a major symbolic victory. But how does this change the course of this war? Is it now closer to an end?

And that humanitarian crisis we hear about has been worsening in Sudan. Can you give us the latest?

And that humanitarian crisis we hear about has been worsening in Sudan. Can you give us the latest?

NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu, thank you.

NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu, thank you.

Finally, a moment to remember boxing great and grill master George Foreman. He became the heavyweight champion of the world twice. First in his 20s, he then lost his title in 1974 to Muhammad Ali in one of the sport's most storied matches, known as the Rumble in the Jungle.

Finally, a moment to remember boxing great and grill master George Foreman. He became the heavyweight champion of the world twice. First in his 20s, he then lost his title in 1974 to Muhammad Ali in one of the sport's most storied matches, known as the Rumble in the Jungle.

He went on to become the pitchman for the George Foreman Grill, an electric double-sided countertop appliance that made him richer than his boxing career ever did.

He went on to become the pitchman for the George Foreman Grill, an electric double-sided countertop appliance that made him richer than his boxing career ever did.

His family announced his death Friday night on social media. He was 76.

His family announced his death Friday night on social media. He was 76.

I'm Ayesha Roscoe. And I'm Sarah McCammon. Martin Patience produced today's episode with help from Elena Turek, Destiny Adams, and Danny Hensel.

I'm Ayesha Roscoe. And I'm Sarah McCammon. Martin Patience produced today's episode with help from Elena Turek, Destiny Adams, and Danny Hensel.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Yeah, so the NIH has funded hundreds of different kinds of studies on COVID, but just eight of those studies have been clinical trials looking at possible treatments, and patient advocacy groups say this pace is just way too slow.

Yeah, so the NIH has funded hundreds of different kinds of studies on COVID, but just eight of those studies have been clinical trials looking at possible treatments, and patient advocacy groups say this pace is just way too slow.

And also they feel that there's been too much focus in trying to understand why people get sick with long COVID, but not enough attention on trying to relieve their suffering, helping them feel better. And somebody who I've talked to a lot about this is someone named Megan Stone, who is the executive director of the Long COVID Campaign.

And also they feel that there's been too much focus in trying to understand why people get sick with long COVID, but not enough attention on trying to relieve their suffering, helping them feel better. And somebody who I've talked to a lot about this is someone named Megan Stone, who is the executive director of the Long COVID Campaign.

Also, I'll note, Asma, that an estimated 17 million adults in the U.S. have long COVID, and that means many of them are unable to work or care for their families. And that is why some consider the COVID pandemic a mass disabling event. So, Sarah, what does the NIH say about these criticisms?

Also, I'll note, Asma, that an estimated 17 million adults in the U.S. have long COVID, and that means many of them are unable to work or care for their families. And that is why some consider the COVID pandemic a mass disabling event. So, Sarah, what does the NIH say about these criticisms?

Well, the agency agrees that there is a real urgency to find treatments, but they told me that scientists need a solid understanding of the underlying biology of long COVID, which is a complicated disease that can damage nearly every organ system. And researchers have learned a lot. For example, one NIH-funded study found that people are less likely to get long COVID if they've been vaccinated.

Well, the agency agrees that there is a real urgency to find treatments, but they told me that scientists need a solid understanding of the underlying biology of long COVID, which is a complicated disease that can damage nearly every organ system. And researchers have learned a lot. For example, one NIH-funded study found that people are less likely to get long COVID if they've been vaccinated.

And I talked to one NIH-funded researcher, Dr. Leora Horowitz. She's at NYU. And she told me that, you know, you have to remember we're only five years into this pandemic. And there is real concern that jumping into clinical trials too soon might not be safe. It could waste money. It could waste time.

And I talked to one NIH-funded researcher, Dr. Leora Horowitz. She's at NYU. And she told me that, you know, you have to remember we're only five years into this pandemic. And there is real concern that jumping into clinical trials too soon might not be safe. It could waste money. It could waste time.

But it is also true that so far, we still don't have any FDA-approved drugs or devices or any therapies specifically for long COVID.

But it is also true that so far, we still don't have any FDA-approved drugs or devices or any therapies specifically for long COVID.

Well, for a lot of people, their only option is to go on long-term disability while they keep trying different drugs and therapies to manage their symptoms. And patients tell me they're exhausted, they're frustrated, and doctors feel this way too. For example, Dr. Michael Broad at UT Health Austin, he says there's a lot of guesswork in treating long COVID because there's just not enough research.

Well, for a lot of people, their only option is to go on long-term disability while they keep trying different drugs and therapies to manage their symptoms. And patients tell me they're exhausted, they're frustrated, and doctors feel this way too. For example, Dr. Michael Broad at UT Health Austin, he says there's a lot of guesswork in treating long COVID because there's just not enough research.

Broad also told me he prescribes medications that are not approved by the FDA for long COVID, but they are approved for other illnesses. This is called off-label prescribing. And often insurance companies don't cover these prescriptions, and that leaves very sick people having to decide whether to pay out-of-pocket for treatment. Thanks so much, Sarah, for your reporting.

Broad also told me he prescribes medications that are not approved by the FDA for long COVID, but they are approved for other illnesses. This is called off-label prescribing. And often insurance companies don't cover these prescriptions, and that leaves very sick people having to decide whether to pay out-of-pocket for treatment. Thanks so much, Sarah, for your reporting.

It's been less than a month since South Korea's parliament voted to impeach President Yoon Sang-yeol for imposing martial law. Now, parliament has voted to impeach his replacement. It's the first time South Korea has impeached an acting president, and it illustrates the seriousness of the political crisis gripping one of Asia's key democracies.

It's been less than a month since South Korea's parliament voted to impeach President Yoon Sang-yeol for imposing martial law. Now, parliament has voted to impeach his replacement. It's the first time South Korea has impeached an acting president, and it illustrates the seriousness of the political crisis gripping one of Asia's key democracies.

NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn joins us now from Seoul. Hi there, Anthony.

NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn joins us now from Seoul. Hi there, Anthony.

So tell us about the acting president and why parliament wants him out.

So tell us about the acting president and why parliament wants him out.

Which raises the question, who is running the country now?

Which raises the question, who is running the country now?

South Korea has voted to impeach its acting president. The vote comes just two weeks after the former president was impeached following a failed attempt to impose martial law. What's behind the country's political upheaval? I'm Sarah McCammon. This is Up First from NPR News.

South Korea has voted to impeach its acting president. The vote comes just two weeks after the former president was impeached following a failed attempt to impose martial law. What's behind the country's political upheaval? I'm Sarah McCammon. This is Up First from NPR News.

Israel has struck Houthi targets in Yemen, including an international airport in the country's capital, power stations and ports. What comes next as fighting between the Iran-supported group and Israel escalates? And the country of Georgia is set to swear in a new president this weekend, but the incumbent president refuses to stand down following a disputed election.

Israel has struck Houthi targets in Yemen, including an international airport in the country's capital, power stations and ports. What comes next as fighting between the Iran-supported group and Israel escalates? And the country of Georgia is set to swear in a new president this weekend, but the incumbent president refuses to stand down following a disputed election.

Okay, so back to former President Yun, the president who declared martial law and kicked all of this off. What's the latest with him?

Okay, so back to former President Yun, the president who declared martial law and kicked all of this off. What's the latest with him?

Lots of twists and turns here, Anthony. Any idea how long this gridlock might last?

Lots of twists and turns here, Anthony. Any idea how long this gridlock might last?

That's NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn. Thanks so much, Anthony.

That's NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn. Thanks so much, Anthony.

Israel launched its largest and most aggressive attack so far against the Iran-supported Houthis in Yemen on Thursday. The Israeli airstrikes hit the rebel-controlled capital's international airport, damaging the runway and control tower. At least six people died and dozens were injured in multiple strikes, according to Yemen's state-run news agency.

Israel launched its largest and most aggressive attack so far against the Iran-supported Houthis in Yemen on Thursday. The Israeli airstrikes hit the rebel-controlled capital's international airport, damaging the runway and control tower. At least six people died and dozens were injured in multiple strikes, according to Yemen's state-run news agency.

For more on the escalation of fighting, we go now to NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan in Tel Aviv. Hi, Carrie.

For more on the escalation of fighting, we go now to NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan in Tel Aviv. Hi, Carrie.

So catch us up here. Tell us about these attacks on Yemen's capital, Sanaa. What were the targets?

So catch us up here. Tell us about these attacks on Yemen's capital, Sanaa. What were the targets?

A look at the brewing showdown between the country's opposition and the government. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

A look at the brewing showdown between the country's opposition and the government. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

Now, Israel says this attack was in retaliation for missiles being fired from Yemen. When did this all start?

Now, Israel says this attack was in retaliation for missiles being fired from Yemen. When did this all start?

Well, as Netanyahu alluded to, Israel has been weakening its enemies on multiple fronts, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, both also supported by Iran. What are you hearing about the Houthis' capabilities, Carrie?

Well, as Netanyahu alluded to, Israel has been weakening its enemies on multiple fronts, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, both also supported by Iran. What are you hearing about the Houthis' capabilities, Carrie?

That's NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan. Thanks, Carrie. You're welcome. Georgia straddles Europe and Asia and it has an important and complicated relationship with neighboring Russia. This weekend, the country is set to swear in a new president and he is a vocal critic of the West.

That's NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan. Thanks, Carrie. You're welcome. Georgia straddles Europe and Asia and it has an important and complicated relationship with neighboring Russia. This weekend, the country is set to swear in a new president and he is a vocal critic of the West.

This follows protests that broke out in the capital Tbilisi last month after the government decided to suspend talks to join the European Union. Meanwhile, Georgia's incumbent president has refused to stand down following October's disputed election. Joining me now is reporter Robin Forrester-Walker, who's been following the protests. Thanks for joining us.

This follows protests that broke out in the capital Tbilisi last month after the government decided to suspend talks to join the European Union. Meanwhile, Georgia's incumbent president has refused to stand down following October's disputed election. Joining me now is reporter Robin Forrester-Walker, who's been following the protests. Thanks for joining us.

So who is the newly elected president, and why is this looking like a potential showdown between Georgia's opposition and the government?

So who is the newly elected president, and why is this looking like a potential showdown between Georgia's opposition and the government?

How did Georgia get to where it is now and what is Russia's role here?

How did Georgia get to where it is now and what is Russia's role here?

Now, the Georgian Dream Party, this is Georgia's governing party, they say they're pro-European still, though, right? I mean, what happens next here?

Now, the Georgian Dream Party, this is Georgia's governing party, they say they're pro-European still, though, right? I mean, what happens next here?

That's reporter Robin Forestier-Walker, who's been following the protests in Tbilisi, Georgia. Thanks so much for being here.

That's reporter Robin Forestier-Walker, who's been following the protests in Tbilisi, Georgia. Thanks so much for being here.

And that's Up First for Friday, December 27th. I'm Sarah McCammon. And don't forget, Up First airs on the weekend, too. Ayesha Roscoe and Scott Simon have the news. It'll be here in this feed or wherever you get your podcasts. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Nick Spicer, Peter Granitz, Lisa Thompson, and Ellis Wolfley.

And that's Up First for Friday, December 27th. I'm Sarah McCammon. And don't forget, Up First airs on the weekend, too. Ayesha Roscoe and Scott Simon have the news. It'll be here in this feed or wherever you get your podcasts. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Nick Spicer, Peter Granitz, Lisa Thompson, and Ellis Wolfley.

It was produced by Ziad Butch, Nia Dumas, and Milton Gavata. We get engineering support from Nisha Hynas, and our technical director is Carly Strange. Our executive producer is Kelly Dickens. Join us again tomorrow.

It was produced by Ziad Butch, Nia Dumas, and Milton Gavata. We get engineering support from Nisha Hynas, and our technical director is Carly Strange. Our executive producer is Kelly Dickens. Join us again tomorrow.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

And I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

And I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

Even if we pass some to the consumer, we can't pass it all. So I really think the honest answer is that businesses will close.

Even if we pass some to the consumer, we can't pass it all. So I really think the honest answer is that businesses will close.

If you don't, we will find you and we will deport you. You will never return.

If you don't, we will find you and we will deport you. You will never return.

On the Planet Money podcast, you've seen them, those labels that say made in China or made in France. But what do they really mean?

We dig into the delightfully convoluted rules behind country of origin, what makes, say, a Chinese product Chinese, and how companies facing tariffs are getting creative. From Planet Money on NPR, wherever you get your podcasts.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

George Wendt.

Nuclear dome.

Hey, it's Sarah Gonzalez. The economy has been in the news a lot lately. It's kind of always in the news. And Planet Money is always here to explain it. Each episode, we tell a sometimes quirky, sometimes surprising, always interesting story that helps you better understand the economy. So when you hear something about cryptocurrency or where exactly your taxes go, ya sabes.

Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

Politics is a lot these days. I'm Sarah McCammon, a co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and I'll be the first to tell you what happens in Washington definitely demands some decoding. That's why our show makes politics as easy as possible to wrap your head around. Join us as we make politics make sense on the NPR Politics Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Tariffs, recessions, how Colombian drug cartels gave us blueberries all year long. That's the kind of thing the Planet Money podcast explains. I'm Sarah Gonzalez, and on Planet Money, we help you understand the economy and how things all around you came to be the way they are. Para que sepas. So you know. Listen to the Planet Money podcast from NPR.

On NPR's ThruLine... Witnesses were ending up dead.

Find NPR's ThruLine wherever you get your podcasts.

When Malcolm Gladwell presented NPR's Throughline podcast with a Peabody Award, he praised it for its historical and moral clarity. On Throughline, we take you back in time to the origins of what's in the news, like presidential power, aging, and evangelicalism. Time travel with us every week on the Throughline podcast from NPR.

I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

And I had to come up with $15,000 of extra cash to release my goods just this last month.

Even if we pass some to the consumer, we can't pass it all. So I really think the honest answer is that businesses will close.

If you don't, we will find you and we will deport you. You will never return.

Evie Stone is our senior supervising editor, Sarah Lucy Oliver is our executive producer, and Jim Kane is our deputy managing editor.

For more news, interviews, sports, and music, you can tune in to Weekend Edition on your radio. Go to stations.npr.org to find your local NPR station.

Here's a question that's become something of a refrain over the last several weeks. Is the U.S. in a constitutional crisis?

President Trump speaking yesterday at the White House. And joining us now is NPR senior contributor Ron Elving. Hey, Ron.

So to that question that keeps getting invoked, what do you say, Ron, is a constitutional crisis at hand?

So sticking with immigration for a second, there were some notable cuts announced yesterday to a division within the Department of Homeland Security or DHS. What can you tell us about those?

That's because what were once seen as minor visa violations are now triggering major scrutiny from immigration officials.

Now, I think it's worth noting it has not even been a week since members of the Trump administration and the Doge team took over the U.S. Institute of Peace, which is a congressionally funded think tank. Where is Congress in all of this?

That's NPR's Ron Elving. Thanks so much for your time, Ron.

If you have a green card or a valid visa, getting into the U.S. is usually straightforward.

But lately, officers have stepped up their questions and sent some people with apparently minor visa violations to detention centers.

Sudan's army took control of the presidential palace on Friday after days of intense fighting with the paramilitary rapid support forces known as RSF.

Fighting continues across Sudan, but this is likely to be a key turning point. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu has been covering this and joins us now. Thanks for being with us today.

So if you could, just tell us more about what happened in the Capitol yesterday.

So this seems at least like a major symbolic victory. But how does this change the course of this war? Is it now closer to an end?

And that humanitarian crisis we hear about has been worsening in Sudan. Can you give us the latest?

NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu, thank you.

Finally, a moment to remember boxing great and grill master George Foreman. He became the heavyweight champion of the world twice. First in his 20s, he then lost his title in 1974 to Muhammad Ali in one of the sport's most storied matches, known as the Rumble in the Jungle.

He went on to become the pitchman for the George Foreman Grill, an electric double-sided countertop appliance that made him richer than his boxing career ever did.

His family announced his death Friday night on social media. He was 76.

I'm Ayesha Roscoe. And I'm Sarah McCammon. Martin Patience produced today's episode with help from Elena Turek, Destiny Adams, and Danny Hensel.

It's been less than a month since South Korea's parliament voted to impeach President Yoon Sang-yeol for imposing martial law. Now, parliament has voted to impeach his replacement. It's the first time South Korea has impeached an acting president, and it illustrates the seriousness of the political crisis gripping one of Asia's key democracies.

NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn joins us now from Seoul. Hi there, Anthony.

So tell us about the acting president and why parliament wants him out.

Which raises the question, who is running the country now?

South Korea has voted to impeach its acting president. The vote comes just two weeks after the former president was impeached following a failed attempt to impose martial law. What's behind the country's political upheaval? I'm Sarah McCammon. This is Up First from NPR News.

Israel has struck Houthi targets in Yemen, including an international airport in the country's capital, power stations and ports. What comes next as fighting between the Iran-supported group and Israel escalates? And the country of Georgia is set to swear in a new president this weekend, but the incumbent president refuses to stand down following a disputed election.

Okay, so back to former President Yun, the president who declared martial law and kicked all of this off. What's the latest with him?

Lots of twists and turns here, Anthony. Any idea how long this gridlock might last?

That's NPR international correspondent Anthony Kuhn. Thanks so much, Anthony.

Israel launched its largest and most aggressive attack so far against the Iran-supported Houthis in Yemen on Thursday. The Israeli airstrikes hit the rebel-controlled capital's international airport, damaging the runway and control tower. At least six people died and dozens were injured in multiple strikes, according to Yemen's state-run news agency.

For more on the escalation of fighting, we go now to NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan in Tel Aviv. Hi, Carrie.

So catch us up here. Tell us about these attacks on Yemen's capital, Sanaa. What were the targets?

A look at the brewing showdown between the country's opposition and the government. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

Now, Israel says this attack was in retaliation for missiles being fired from Yemen. When did this all start?

Well, as Netanyahu alluded to, Israel has been weakening its enemies on multiple fronts, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, both also supported by Iran. What are you hearing about the Houthis' capabilities, Carrie?

That's NPR international correspondent Carrie Khan. Thanks, Carrie. You're welcome. Georgia straddles Europe and Asia and it has an important and complicated relationship with neighboring Russia. This weekend, the country is set to swear in a new president and he is a vocal critic of the West.

This follows protests that broke out in the capital Tbilisi last month after the government decided to suspend talks to join the European Union. Meanwhile, Georgia's incumbent president has refused to stand down following October's disputed election. Joining me now is reporter Robin Forrester-Walker, who's been following the protests. Thanks for joining us.

So who is the newly elected president, and why is this looking like a potential showdown between Georgia's opposition and the government?

How did Georgia get to where it is now and what is Russia's role here?

Now, the Georgian Dream Party, this is Georgia's governing party, they say they're pro-European still, though, right? I mean, what happens next here?

That's reporter Robin Forestier-Walker, who's been following the protests in Tbilisi, Georgia. Thanks so much for being here.

And that's Up First for Friday, December 27th. I'm Sarah McCammon. And don't forget, Up First airs on the weekend, too. Ayesha Roscoe and Scott Simon have the news. It'll be here in this feed or wherever you get your podcasts. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Nick Spicer, Peter Granitz, Lisa Thompson, and Ellis Wolfley.

It was produced by Ziad Butch, Nia Dumas, and Milton Gavata. We get engineering support from Nisha Hynas, and our technical director is Carly Strange. Our executive producer is Kelly Dickens. Join us again tomorrow.

Crews in Ukraine are cleaning up following a deadly attack on Christmas Day. Moscow launched some 70 missiles and more than 100 drones packed with explosives. They appeared to target Ukraine's energy grid. NPR's Brian Mann joins us now from Kiev. Hi, Brian.

So tell us about this Russian attack. What made it through Ukraine's air defenses?

This is now the third winter of the war there. And whenever it gets cold, Russia seems to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure. How well is it holding up?

A Russian attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure leaves thousands of people without heat in the winter's cold, and it's not the first time. We hear what Ukrainians have to say about the attack on Christmas Day. I'm Sarah McCammon, and this is Up First from NPR News. Automakers are trying to adapt to seismic changes in their industry.

And Brian, what are these attacks meaning for people's daily lives there in Ukraine?

Now, just before Christmas, you visited the front lines in eastern Ukraine, where the fighting is the most intense. How are things there?

Why some companies might not make it through the transition. And the holiday season in Nigeria is muted this year against the backdrop of an economic crisis. Reforms praised by Western institutions have led to crushing inflation. Stay with us. We'll give you the news you need to start your day.

That's NPR's Brian Mann in Kyiv. Thanks so much.

Hey there. Hey, Sarah. So these are two really well-known automakers with very long histories and reputations. Why would they want to merge?

And not only that, right, but presumably a merger would also make these companies, both of which are based in Japan, more competitive against Chinese automakers. Why is that important? Yeah.

You know, there was a time back in the 1980s when Japan was really emerging as a global force in the auto sector. Are Chinese companies now stepping into that kind of role in the industry?

That's NPR's Raphael Nam. Thank you so much.

In Nigeria, the holidays are less festive this year as the country is in the grip of one of its worst economic crises in decades. The government imposed a set of controversial economic reforms that critics say have only made poverty worse. And despite recent quarters of economic growth, inflation has soared. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu joins us now. Hi there.

So just paint a picture for me. How difficult is the economy for people right now?

Yeah, just an absolutely tragic example of how these economic struggles are hurting people. But what is the underlying cause of the economic situation?

So, Emmanuel, what is the government doing to soften that blow that you just mentioned for the people in Nigeria?