The Opinions

Trump’s Relentless, ‘Utterly Incoherent’ Battles

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 4 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000

President Trump claims America is “winning bigger than ever before,” but his battles abroad and in American courtrooms drag on. This week on “The Opinions,” the national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French discuss Trump’s efforts to build support for the war in Iran. And in domestic politics, the trio discuss why even conservative Supreme Court judges seem skeptical of the administration’s push to end birthright citizenship.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Daniel Ramirez. Video editing by Arpita Aneja and Kristen Williamson. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Isaac Jones and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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What Do You Do When a Family Member Commits a Terrible Crime?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Maintaining a relationship with a convicted family member can be complicated. The columnist M. Gessen would know.

In a new podcast series from Serial called “The Idiot,” M. grapples with the fact that their first cousin committed a terrible crime. In 2024, a federal judge sentenced Allen to 10 years in prison for taking out a hit on his ex-wife, the mother of his children.

Now, M. talks about their dilemma with their friend Harriet Clark, whose mother, Judy Clark, served 37 years in prison for driving the getaway car in a robbery that led to the deaths of three people. Harriet explains how the adults in her life gave her the opportunity to create and sustain a strong relationship with her mother, and why M. should do the same for Allen’s children.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouruad. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘We Are Going to Deeply Regret This War’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Will the war with Iran further degrade America’s already strained relationships with its allies? This week, Mona Charen, the policy editor at The Bulwark, joins the contributing Opinion writer E.J. Dionne Jr. and the former “All Things Considered” host Robert Siegel to unpack what the war portends for NATO, for Israel’s image in the United States and for American politics going forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘Everything After This Will Be Harder’: General Stanley McChrystal on Iran

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +0000

Did President Trump fall for the myth of surgical warfare? Gen. Stanley McChrystal joins the columnist David French, both veterans of the Iraq War, to discuss what may have been overlooked in the planning of Operation Epic Fury. McChrystal, who retired from the Army in 2010, argues that the United States often overestimates the decisive power of aerial bombing while underestimating the weight of historical grievance. And the general weighs in on the current culture of bravado coming from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

This conversation was recorded on Friday, March 20.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur and Victoria Chamberlin. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Mixing by Isaac Jones and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair, Mary Marge Locker and Michelle Harris. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Trump’s Recklessness Will ‘Haunt Us for a Generation’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

President Trump has his own ideas about American power, American voters, and American enemies. On “The Opinions,” the writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French argue that unfortunately Trump misunderstands all three.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Jillian Weinberger and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Video editing by Arpita Aneja. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Michelle Harris. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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He’s Openly Antisemitic. Young Male Conservatives in Florida Love Him.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

What does a relatively unknown candidate for governor of Florida reveal about antisemitism in American politics? In this episode, the columnist Michelle Goldberg discusses the Republican primary candidate James Fishback, his trollish antisemitic views and his appeal to young male voters.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Jillian Weinberger and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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The Political Cost of Trump’s War

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Voters are not happy about President Trump’s war in Iran — and the polls are starting to show it. The Conversation convenes this week with the contributing writer and Republican pollster Kristen Soltis Anderson, the contributing writer E.J. Dionne Jr. and the former “All Things Considered” host Robert Siegel to unpack the war and what it could mean for gas prices and the midterm elections.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why Voters Might Finally Blame Trump for Rising Costs

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The war in Iran is setting off a global economic shock wave. In this episode, the Opinion editor Steve Stormberg speaks with the Bulwark economics editor and MS NOW anchor Catherine Rampell on how the Trump-made war is likely to affect global trade and the cost of living for Americans.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Isaac Jones, Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Was Tyra Banks the Villain? Or Were We?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sun, 8 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

As millennials march into middle age, many are reconsidering the culture of their youth. A new Netflix documentary, “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,” is doing just that: exploring how a reality show set out to change the modeling industry, but often wound up humiliating contestants along the way.

The culture editor Nadja Spiegelman sits down with the former modeling agent and brand strategist Kendall Werts and the Opinion writer Jessica Grose to reflect on their relationships to the original show. “I saw these girls being treated so ugly at the time, and I enjoyed it,” Grose says. “And now, with the hindsight of 20 years, I don’t think I would even rewatch the show.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing and original music by Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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One President’s Whim. A World in Crisis.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 7 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Early last Saturday, President Trump announced that the United States had begun a major military operation against Iran. What followed has been a week of confusion, mixed messaging and rising casualties in a widening conflict that is causing calamity in the Gulf region. On this week’s round table, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French discuss the dangers of another “forever war,” the challenge of defining success and viable exit strategies.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Will Trump’s Failures Cost the G.O.P. in Texas?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

The Texas Senate primary is three days away, and it’s a high-stakes race. With President Trump slumping in the polls and voters disenchanted with his handling of the economy, Democrats could have a shot at this traditionally Republican state. For this week’s round table, Opinion’s national politics writer Michelle Cottle joins the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French to discuss Trump’s ineffective State of the Union address, what to expect on Tuesday and what the races reveal about the challenges facing both parties.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin, Alison Bruzek and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Video editing by Lisa Angell. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Aaron Retica.

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Trump's Tariffs Won't Save Workers from A.I.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Supreme Court’s decision striking down the Trump administration’s tariffs left the President fuming and with fewer weapons in his trade war arsenal. Opinion writers Binyamin Appelbaum and Emily Bazelon, and editor Steve Stromberg, discuss how the Court’s ruling constrains the President, what Trump has done in response, and where trade policy should go from here, as automation and A.I. continue to threaten American workers.

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Iran, Epstein and the Abuse of Power: Two Stories, One Pattern

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Power — and the abuse of it — is defining the current news cycle. On this week’s round table of “The Opinions,” the Times Opinion politics writer Michelle Cottle is joined by the columnists Nicholas Kristof and David French to discuss President Trump’s aggressive foreign policy, including the buildup of ships in the Middle East, and what the fallout from the Epstein files misses.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Video editing by Lisa Angell. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘Skin Orgasms for Everyone’: Highlights of the Winter Olympics So Far

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Winter Olympics are underway, and all eyes are on Milan. In a round-table discussion, the Opinion editor Steve Stromberg speaks with the contributing writer Esau McCaulley, the writer and podcaster Kelly Corrigan and the Olympian Sasha Cohen on the joys, awe, escapism of the Games — as well as the inescapable politics surrounding them.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur, with help from Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Pam Bondi’s ‘Cage Match’ and Trump’s Fraying Coalition

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Attorney General Pam Bondi’s combative testimony before the House Judiciary Committee this week offered a glimpse of what’s happening inside the Republican Party: a full-scale meltdown. In this round table episode of “The Opinions,” the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French join the national politics writer Michelle Cottle to unpack the intraparty wars now fracturing not only the right but also the left — and discuss why President Trump’s second term is proving to be a “great illuminator of the true core of people.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Daniel Ramirez. Video editing by Lisa Angell. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker and Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Aaron Retica.

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Trump and the Death of Shared Morality in America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The columnist David Brooks’s 22-year tenure at The New York Times is coming to an end, and so the Conversation trio of Robert Siegel, E.J. Dionne Jr. and Brooks gather one last time to discuss President Trump’s latest upsets and reflect on the departing columnist’s lengthy career and evolving views.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Video editing by Arpita Aneja. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Marijuana Is Everywhere. That’s a Problem.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

More than a decade ago, The New York Times editorial board argued that the United States should legalize recreational marijuana. This week, the board modified its stance. Yes, it should be legalized — but it must be better regulated. Marijuana is causing more harm than predicted by many during the fight to legalize it. In this conversation, David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, and Emily Bazelon and German Lopez, Opinion writers who work with the editorial board, explore what smarter regulation could look like and why it’s sorely needed.

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How Hard Is It to Rig an American Election, Really?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Can President Trump really nationalize elections? This week at the round table for “The Opinions,” the Times Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle is joined by the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie to debate what’s behind Trump’s latest fixation and whether MAGA actually wants elections nationalized.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Video editing by Tony Palmerio. The post-production manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Aaron Retica.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Maureen Dowd and Carlos Lozada on the Empty Propaganda of ‘Melania’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 5 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Amazon’s documentary “Melania” has been panned by many as a $40 million piece of propaganda. But who, exactly, is it meant to persuade? The culture editor Nadja Spiegelman and the Opinion columnists Maureen Dowd and Carlos Lozada break down what the film is trying to say and what it reveals about the first lady’s life and inner world. “She wanted to look gorgeous in every frame and not reveal anything,” Dowd says. “And that’s what happened.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero and Efim Shapiro. Video editing by Tony Palmerio. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caregiving, the Life-Altering Job You Didn’t Apply For

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 3 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The elderly population is on the rise, bringing the United States' caregiving crisis into sharp focus. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the producer Vishakha Darbha talks with the Times Opinion politics writer Michelle Cottle about the overwhelming audience response to her recent essay about caring for her ailing father, the political challenges of long-term care and the burdens faced by caregivers.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Daniel Ramirez. Original music by Isaac Jones and Sonia Herrero. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the ICE Crackdown Finally Backfiring on Trump?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s call to de-escalate tensions in Minneapolis was short lived, but anger over the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti continues to grow. At this week’s round table, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie look at how bipartisan criticism of ICE’s aggression could fuel the demand for accountability and debate the best path forward for the Democratic Party.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Video editing by Benjamin Wright. The postproduction manager is Mike Puretz. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Video is Jonah M. Kessel. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Aaron Retica.

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Esther Perel on Why A.I. Intimacy Feels Safe but Isn’t Real

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

To love is to be human. Or is it? As human-chatbot relationships become more common, the Times Opinion culture editor Nadja Spiegelman talks to the psychotherapist Esther Perel about what really defines human connection, and what we’re seeking when we look to satisfy our emotional needs on our phones.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Tom Friedman: Minneapolis, Alex Pretti and a Democracy at Risk

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The Times Opinion columnist Thomas L. Friedman grew up in Minnesota and spent much of his career traveling to the Middle East. In the aftermath of the shooting death of Alex Pretti, and as the Trump administration continues its crackdown in the Twin Cities, Friedman speaks with the editor Stephen Stromberg about the parallels he sees between his hometown and Gaza today.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The deputy director of Opinion Shows is Alison Bruzek. The director of Opinion Shows is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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ICE Is Splitting America in Two

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s vision of executive power is reshaping America and the world. For “The Opinions,” Aaron Retica, an editor in Opinion, sits down with the Opinion writers and lawyers Emily Bazelon and David French to discuss Trump’s record so far, and what it portends for the next three years.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Hello, Greenland. Goodbye, Checks and Balances.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump has changed America — and the world — in ways both large and small in the first year of his second term. In a live event recorded at the Library Foundation of Los Angeles on Tuesday, the Opinion editor Kathleen Kingsbury was joined by the columnists Jamelle Bouie and Ross Douthat to discuss those changes and what the year ahead might bring.

Thoughts Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/22/opinion/trump-second-term-one-year-in-analysis.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing and original music by Isaac Jones. Engineered by Daniel Ramirez. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to the team at the Library Foundation of Los Angeles.

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Will 2026 Be the Year Voters Pull the Emergency Brake?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

The midterms are coming, and President Trump is already sounding the alarm. For this week’s round table, the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie and the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle try to prepare listeners — and themselves — for how each party will frame Trump’s second term and falling approval rating.

See Jamelle Bouie, Ross Douthat and Kathleen Kingsbury of Times Opinion live at the Library Foundation of Los Angeles on Jan. 20 for “Trump: The First Year of His Second Term.” Get tickets here.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/17/opinion/2026-midterms-trump.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Daniel Ramirez. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Venezuelan Economist on What Trump Gets Wrong About Venezuela

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Nicolás Maduro may be out, but Venezuela’s Chavista regime still holds power. Meanwhile, the opposition leader and Nobel Prize winner María Corina Machado is fighting to remain relevant. She’s scheduled to meet with President Trump at the White House on Thursday.

Francisco Rodríguez, a senior research fellow at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, joins the Opinion editor Dan Wakin to assess the state of the opposition, Machado’s prospects and how Donald Trump factors into Venezuela’s uncertain future.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/14/opinion/venezuela-oil-power-trump.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Internet May Look Different After You Listen to This

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A.I. slop is taking over the internet. As the line between human-made and machine-made art blurs — and real and fake images collapse into one another — how should we think about culture now? On “The Opinions,” the Opinion culture editor Nadja Spiegelman sits down with the columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom and the creative consultant Emily Keegin to discuss what A.I. slop is for, who benefits from it and what comes next.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/13/opinion/ai-slop-internet-trust.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Issac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From ICE to Foreign Quagmires: Escalation Everywhere

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

President Trump began 2026 by invading an autonomous nation and capturing its leader. The Opinion politics writer Michelle Cottle talks to the columnists David French and Carlos Lozada about the ICE shooting in Minneapolis and what the “Donroe Doctrine” portends for the president’s foreign policy over the next three years.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/10/opinion/trump-donroe-doctrine-ice-minneapolis-venezuela.html

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From Kardashian Injectable Lips to Mar-a-Lago Face

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In 2023, there were over 34.9 million cosmetic procedures performed globally, a 40 percent increase from four years ago. As these procedures have become more common, the taboos against talking about them have weakened. The New York Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad speaks to the columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom and the writer Jessica Grose on whether the growing affordability of Botox and fillers has driven this shift, and how an aging face is the new punk rock.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/08/opinion/body-modification-gender.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Is This MAGA Foreign Policy or Something Else Entirely?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 5 Jan 2026 21:00:37 +0000

President Trump’s operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, the ousted president of Venezuela, and his wife, seems to have been a military success. What is far less clear is what happens next. Stephen Stromberg, an editor in Opinion covering politics and economics, joins the columnists M. Gessen and David French to discuss the legality of America’s attack on Venezuela, the state of the global order and what “America first” means for MAGA now.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2026/01/05/opinion/trump-maduro-capture-venezuela.html

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My Gay Son Changed My Understanding of Evangelical Christianity (Re-Air)

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Changing your mind can be a difficult thing to do, especially when it also means reconsidering the foundation of your faith. That’s what happened for the evangelical pastor Bill White when his 15-year-old son Timothy came out as gay to him at Starbucks. On this episode of “The Opinions,” Bill reads from his journal documenting the personal transformation that led him to thank God for making his son gay.

This episode originally aired on August 6, 2025.

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Is Trump’s Version of America’s History a Lie? (Re-Air)

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s attacks on the Smithsonian Museum for being too “woke” in its exhibits are part of a broader effort to control America’s story. Bryan Stevenson, a lawyer and the founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, has created institutions that confront the nation’s painful past to preserve an honest vision of history. In this conversation with Jeffrey Toobin, he argues that while America has much to celebrate, whitewashing its history lets its mistakes — and their consequences — live on.

This episode originally aired on September 10, 2025.

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America's Next Story: Michelle Goldberg

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Joe Biden’s immigration policies may have contributed to Donald Trump’s winning a second term, but a year later, Americans are increasingly unhappy with the president’s aggressive deportation tactics. For the final installment of the America’s Next Story series, the columnist Michelle Goldberg joins David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, to discuss her strongly held belief that America is, at its best, a nation of immigrants and that should inform how the country moves forward.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2025/12/22/opinion/next-american-story-michelle-goldberg-immigration.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Was 2025 the End of ‘Teflon Trump’?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

As a tumultuous year comes to an end, the New York Times Opinion politics writer Michelle Cottle talks to the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie about the year that was — the damage done by the Trump administration, including his most recent speech, any silver linings and what to take into 2026.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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David Brooks, E.J. Dionne and Robert Siegel Take Stock of 2025

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Conversation convenes this week with the Opinion columnist David Brooks, the contributing Opinion writer E.J. Dionne Jr. and the former host of NPR’s “All Things Considered” Robert Siegel to unpack a week of turbulent news across the globe, including the state of the Trump presidency, economic anxiety in America and the president’s approach to national security.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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America's Next Story: Bret Stephens

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Republican Party’s wholesale embrace of Donald Trump has left traditional conservatives like the Times Opinion columnist Bret Stephens without a political home. But what happens after Trump leaves office? Will the party return to its Reaganite roots? In this conversation, Stephens and David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, imagine what the G.O.P.’s next story might be.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Republican Women vs. the G.O.P.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The Republican Party has a misogyny problem. Congressional members like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace have been pushing past their party’s patriarchal views and fighting back. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the columnist David French is joined by the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and fellow columnist Jamelle Bouie to discuss how Republican women are standing up to their party and whether President Trump’s view of women will leave a lasting mark on conservative politics.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Tom Friedman Says We’re in a New Epoch. David Brooks Has Questions.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We’re living in a strange moment. According to the columnist Thomas L. Friedman, it’s a completely new era, called the Polycene — one in which everything moves faster and science, technology and politics are more connected than ever. The columnist David Brooks sits down with Friedman to make sense of what the modern world’s cascading crises mean for the future.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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M. Gessen and Michelle Goldberg on How to Resist

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 9 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

So you disagree with the direction in which your country is headed. What’s a moral person to do? That’s the question the columnists M. Gessen and Michelle Goldberg recently set out to answer in their reporting in different countries. In this conversation with the editor Ariel Kaminer, they discuss recent tactics by Israeli dissidents, Americans organizing against Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other ways to protest unethical policies.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Republicans Are Quietly Pushing Back Against Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 6 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s popularity appears to be slipping in the Republican Party and with the American people. This week Republicans eked out a victory in a Tennessee special election, but only after national groups spent millions of dollars shoring up their chosen candidate. Meanwhile, G.O.P. lawmakers seem skeptical of the Trump administration’s justification for boat strikes in the Caribbean. On this episode, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle discusses the ramifications for the president with the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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What Is Going on With Trump?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Opinion columnist Bret Stephens and the contributing Opinion writer Frank Bruni return for another edition of The Conversation. This week, they are joined by the Opinion editor Aaron Retica, who fields questions from readers about the gap between President Trump’s interests and voters’ priorities, the future of Trumpism without Trump and whether centrism can be charismatic.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing and original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Aesthetic That Explains American Identity Now

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 2 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Rural aesthetics are in — from cowboy boots, to country albums by popstars, to pastoral idealism peddled by influencers. New York Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad speaks to columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom and contributor Emily Keegin about what these cultural touch points mean for our politics, and society at large.

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America's Next Story: Senator Cory Booker

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Democrats can tackle affordability and confront the damage President Trump is doing to American democracy — but only if they get the leadership right, Senator Cory Booker, Democrat of New Jersey, argues. Booker sat down with the Times Opinion editorial director David Leonhardt in late October to discuss his vision for the party, the stakes for the country and why he still believes in America — urging Americans to “hold tight,” because, he says, “the best chapter in a century is upon us.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epstein and the #MeToo of It All

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Much of the national discussion around the Epstein case has focused on the political drama. But as the Opinion columnist Lydia Polgreen and the contributing Opinion writer Molly Jong-Fast remind listeners, this is a case about the “conspiracy of silence” that perpetuates sexual violence against women. In this episode, the two writers explore the intertwining paths of the Epstein saga and the #MeToo movement, the challenges of accountability and whether this moment could mark a change for American culture and politics.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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The Democrat Who Split MAGA Over the Epstein Files

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Representative Ro Khanna, Democrat of California, was instrumental in pressuring President Trump to reverse course on a bill he sponsored, with the Republican Thomas Massie of Kentucky, to direct the Justice Department to release files related to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In this conversation, Mr. Khanna tells David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, why his advocacy for Americans left behind by the global economy pushed him to spotlight the Epstein case.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

America's Next Story: Sarah Isgur

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Now that Donald Trump will never be on a ballot again, some conservatives are starting to imagine a future beyond him. In the latest installment of America’s Next Story, David Leonhardt, an editorial director at Opinion, talks with the conservative Sarah Isgur, an editor at The Dispatch and the author of a forthcoming book about the Supreme Court, “Last Branch Standing.” She lays out her dream for a return to a small-government ethos and constrained presidential power — no matter who holds the White House.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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In the Epstein Saga, Trump Is His Own Worst Enemy

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The release of thousands of pages of emails from Jeffrey Epstein has cast a spotlight back on President Trump and his relationship with Epstein. This week, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French argue that MAGA’s engagement with figures like Epstein and the prominent white nationalist Nick Fuentes is causing cracks on the political right and gradual losses for Trump’s base. But will these incremental steps away from Trump eventually look more like a stampede?

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Africa Is Rising. The World Shouldn’t Turn Its Back.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Africa is expected to see a massive population boom in the next several decades. At the same time, the United States, China and European nations are pulling back their presence there in terms of aid, trade and investment. In this episode, the Opinion columnist Lydia Polgreen speaks with the former Times correspondent and bureau chief Howard French about the challenges facing Africa, the risk for global powers if they disengage from the continent and one 20th-century African leader’s vision for Black self-reliance that feels especially relevant today.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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America's Next Story: Cecilia Muñoz

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Immigration has always been central to the American story, yet many Americans remain dissatisfied with the Trump administration’s aggressive approach. So how does the country move forward on this issue?

In this “America’s Next Story” series episode of “The Opinions,” David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, speaks with Cecilia Muñoz, who helped shape immigration policy under President Barack Obama. Ms. Muñoz explains that the openness of Mr. Biden’s immigration policy was an opportunity for Trump, and one he fully exploited. She urges the Democratic Party to find inspiration in her Obama-era immigration policy, to balance avenues for legal immigration with enforcement at the border.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishkaha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker and Isaac Jones. Original music by Carole Sabouruad. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are Post-Trump Politics Emerging?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Tuesday’s election results have big implications for Democrats — and also for Republicans who have yoked their fortunes to President Trump. The Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle, along with the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French, discuss whether the results indicate a new dawn or a predictable political swing in an unstable year.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Should Trump Approach China? A Debate.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s recent meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, led to a de-escalation of the tense trade war between the superpowers. But what could this truce mean for the United States in the long term, especially as China continues to demonstrate dominance?

In this episode, the Opinion editor Ariel Kaminer speaks with Oren Cass, the founder and chief economist of the conservative think tank American Compass, and Jason Furman, an economist at Harvard and a former chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, about the possible ways to engage with Beijing and the merits of blowing up a world built on free trade.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

America's Next Story: Senator Bernie Sanders

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 3 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Bernie Sanders is not a fan of billionaires. His laser focus on economic inequality has made him one of the most influential politicians in the country. In this conversation with David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, Sanders explains why America’s next story must include economic justice for the country’s working class, and why progressives shouldn’t shun voters who disagree with them on social issues.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Efim Shapiro and Isaac Jones. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Congress Is Dying in Real Time

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 1 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

The legislative branch of the government is in crisis. The shutdown is entering a second month. Millions of Americans were given a reprieve on Friday after a judge ordered the Trump administration to continue paying for food stamps. The Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle discusses the repercussions of a weakening Congress with the Opinion columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French, and what the future could hold for this institution.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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We Need to Rethink How We Think About the Holocaust

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In the wake of the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told reporters, “This is the savagery that we only remember from the Nazi crimes in the Holocaust. Hamas are the new Nazis.” Many Israeli politicians echoed that, invoking the Holocaust to describe the terrorist attacks. In an interview with the Times Opinion columnist M. Gessen, the Columbia University professor Marianne Hirsch argues that the trauma and memory of the Holocaust are being misused and makes a case for how it should be taught going forward.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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People Still Want to Get Married. Why Aren't They?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What’s the problem with marriage? That depends on whom you ask. The Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad is joined by the Opinion writer Jessica Grose and the author Glynnis MacNicol to discuss the current shift away from marriage and romantic relationships, and what these cultural changes mean for our society at large.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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America's Next Story: Jill Lepore

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Harvard historian Jill Lepore worries that citizens have become too passive, waiting for change to happen to them. She is on a mission to revive what has become a lost art in American politics: amending the Constitution. In this conversation with David Leonhardt, an editorial director for York Times Opinion, Lepore argues that demonizing Donald Trump inevitably backfires for the left and says that turning the page on the Trump era will require not just hope but determination.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump Has a Religion. What Do Democrats Have?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Conversation convenes this week with the Opinion columnist David Brooks, the contributing Opinion writer E.J. Dionne Jr. and the former host of NPR’s “All Things Considered” Robert Siegel to discuss and debate Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral run, gerrymandering and what the No Kings protests achieved.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing and original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

America's Next Story: Senator Ruben Gallego

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Senator Ruben Gallego won election in Arizona in 2024 by emphasizing prosperity over equity. Now, he wants the rest of the Democratic Party to follow suit. In this interview with David Leonhardt, an editorial director in New York Times Opinion, Senator Gallego gives the Democrats some tough love on border security and affordability and explains what he appreciates about the story New York’s mayoral front-runner, Zohran Mamdani, is telling.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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There Is No Trump Without the South

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000

The South isn’t just a wellspring for American culture; it offers a blueprint for America’s future. For this week’s round table on “The Opinions,” three Southerners — the columnists Jamelle Bouie, David French and Tressie McMillan Cottom — explore how the nation’s fascination with Southern culture reveals deeper truths about race, class, belonging and the power of Trumpism.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Ptkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Original music by Carole Sabouruad. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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What Trump’s Peace Deal Really Means for Gaza

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What does President Trump’s peace deal between Israel and Hamas mean for Palestinians in the region? On this episode, the Opinion editor Dan Wakin interviews Diana Buttu, a former adviser to the Palestine Liberation Organization, about her concerns over the agreement and what it really means for Palestinians. “My fear is that in this agreement, we’re just going to go back to the way it was before,” she says. “It’s just going to be yet another papering over the harm that has been caused by these decades of occupation.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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America’s Next Story: Pete Buttigieg

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Pete Buttigieg has a clear vision of where his party lost its way. Now Buttigieg, the former transportation secretary, wants to use those lessons to shape the Democratic Party of the future and America’s next story.

“Sooner or later, one day Donald Trump will not be active in American politics. And the sooner we spend our energy thinking about what to do next, I actually think the sooner that day will come,” he tells David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion. In this conversation, Buttigieg explains why DOGE’s destruction of government institutions may be an opportunity for Democrats and what working to revive his hometown taught him about the threats we face from artificial intelligence.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2025/10/14/opinion/next-american-story-pete-buttigieg.html

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Who Can Stop a President Deploying Troops?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000

President Trump has deployed the National Guard to Memphis and Chicago and has his sights on Portland, Ore. It’s his latest effort to punish his enemies and provoke a response. In this episode, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle, the Opinion columnist David French and the contributing Opinion writer E.J. Dionne Jr. discuss the state of a divided America and what history can tell us about this moment.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Tom Friedman on the Only Way to Solve the Israel-Hamas War

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 8 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Two years after Hamas’s attack on Israel, delegates from Hamas, Israel and the United States are in Egypt this week to see if President Trump’s cease-fire proposal can lead to an end to the war. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the columnist Thomas L. Friedman explains why this round of peace talks could be different and what obstacles still stand in the way of making lasting peace a reality.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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America’s Next Story: Trumpism After Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What and who comes after President Trump? That’s the question behind America’s Next Story, a limited series from “The Opinions.” In this episode David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, talks to Gladden Pappin, a national conservative dedicated to furthering MAGA’s success in the United States. Pappin lays out his vision for the movement after Trump leaves office and argues with Leonhardt over whether the president and his imitators abroad present a worldwide threat to democracy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘If You Don’t Want This Consequence, Don’t Vote for Republicans’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 4 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000

It’s Day 4 of the current government shutdown, and the Trump administration is threatening to use the moment to fire federal workers. In this episode, the Opinion columnists David French, Jamelle Bouie and Michelle Goldberg debate what this power struggle means for Democrats, Republicans and, most importantly, the American people.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Isaac Jones, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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The ‘Thursday Murder Club’ Author Wants Us to Rethink Aging

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Aging isn’t easy, and topics like dementia and medically assisted dying can be hard to talk about. The British mystery writer Richard Osman is trying to change that. Osman has reimagined the notion of aging through his best-selling “Thursday Murder Club” series, centered on four seniors living in a posh retirement community who solve murders.

In this episode, he sits down with the Opinion writer Michelle Cottle to discuss why seniors make ideal fictional detectives and how a “cozy” murder mystery is the perfect frame to explore growing old.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Ken Burns on America’s Next Story

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s threats to democracy have prompted a number of experts to warn that the United States is in the midst of a constitutional crisis. As the country grapples with how to move forward, David Leonhardt looks back to America’s founding, with the filmmaker Ken Burns. Burns’s upcoming documentary focuses on the Revolutionary War, and in this conversation he discusses the ideals of the country’s flawed founders, how he thinks about patriotism and what he says is the “greatest existential threat to the existence of the United States right now.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing and original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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What a Book of Excuses Reveals About the Democrats’ Future

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Kamala Harris’s new memoir, “107 Days,” reads like a book of excuses. In this episode, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the Opinion columnists Carlos Lozada and Lydia Polgreen unpack why it misses the mark, and what it says about the “big, messy battle” Democrats need to have to find fresh leadership in 2028.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Efim Shapiro and Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Trump Is America’s First Meme President

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s way of communicating has wormed itself deep into American culture. His speeches, interactions with the press and social media posts have inspired countless memes and impersonations from both fans and critics. But according to the linguist and author Adam Aleksic, these memes are now becoming part of how we all speak. Aleksic, also known by his alter ego Etymology Nerd, joins the New York Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad and the Opinion columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom to explore what that means for how we think.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud and Isaac Jones. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Elizabeth Warren on America's Next Story

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Senator Elizabeth Warren arrived on the political scene during the 2008 financial crisis with a very specific story about the economy — that it’s rigged against hardworking Americans. But it was Donald Trump who ran with that message all the way to the White House. In this episode, David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, talks to Senator Warren about her vision for a progressive economic story and the lessons Democrats need to learn going forward.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Emily Willrich. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘We’re in the Most Dangerous Point for Free Speech in America’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Jimmy Kimmel’s removal is the latest example of a wave of firings following the killing of the conservative activist Charlie Kirk. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle is joined by the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French to talk about how the right is trying to redefine whose words are free speech.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Kennedy’s Vaccine Panel Is a Calamity

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of “The Opinions,” the Opinion writer David Wallace-Wells sits down with Paul A. Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, shortly after the most recent vote by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, to discuss what the committee’s decision means for childhood vaccinations.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Alex Ellerbeck, Kate Sinclair and Alexandra Sifferlin. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Alison Bruzek.

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America Was Defined by a Story. It’s Time for a New One.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump rose to power on a dark vision of American life: stagnation, lost greatness, unfairness. But he’ll eventually leave office — really, he will. David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Times Opinion, wants to know what’s next. What should America’s next story be? In the first in the series, he looks back to America’s founding story.

What do you think America’s next story should be? We want to hear from you. Record a voice memo on your phone and send it to theopinions@nytimes.com. We may use an excerpt from your response in a future episode.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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The ‘Fork in the Road’ After Charlie Kirk’s Death

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Following the killing of the conservative political organizer Charlie Kirk, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle talks to the Opinion columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French about how to remember Kirk honestly and rising political violence in the country.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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When Authoritarianism Looms, Old Friends Reunite

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Opinion columnist David Brooks, the contributing Opinion writer E.J. Dionne Jr. and the former host of NPR’s “All Things Considered” Robert Siegel convene to discuss the week’s news for The Conversation. They debate President Trump’s shows of strength and how voters and politicians — including members of Trump’s own party — are responding.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Original music by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What Germany Did That America Still Hasn’t

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Three Opinion Writers on Whether Congress Can Rein in Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 6 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Congress is back in session and there’s a lot on the agenda — from a potential government shutdown to the ongoing battle over the Epstein files. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle is joined by the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French to talk about whether the Democrats should shut down the government and Congress’s weakening role under Trump.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Tom Friedman’s A.I. Nightmare and What the U.S. Can Do to Avoid It

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Opinion columnist Thomas L. Friedman has been spending time in China studying the country’s A.I. ambitions and what they mean for the world. His conclusion: A.I. could become a “nuclear bazooka” unless the United States and China find a way to build trust and work together. In this conversation with the Opinion editor Bill Brink, Tom explains why global safety depends on it.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Replay: This Jail in Rural Maine Is a Model for Treating Opioid Addiction

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Maine has one of the highest rates of opioid use disorder in the nation. But a program at a rural Maine jail initiated by an addiction medicine specialist, Alane O’Connor, is offering hope and saving lives. She’s spearheading a pilot program that offers a monthly injection of the drug Sublocade to addicted inmates, which curbs opioid cravings continuously for a month. In this episode, she argues, “jails are an incredible opportunity to help people enter recovery.”

This episode originally aired January 16, 2025.

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Replay: Kristi Noem and the MAGA Beauty Aesthetic

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of “The Opinions,” Meher Ahmad, an editor for Times Opinion, and the Opinion writer Jessica Grose discuss why this aesthetic is tailored for social media’s algorithm — and what it’s really selling.

This episode originally aired May 7, 2025.

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Trump’s Political Theater Won’t Save D.C.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

President Trump deployed the National Guard in Washington, D.C., and is threatening to do so in other American cities. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle is joined by the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French to debate what Trump is really talking about when he talks about crime and the risks of using the military as a police force.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kaari Pitkin, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Impact So Far: ‘The Worst Possible Case’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vaccine policy changes aren’t making America healthy again, the Opinion writer David Wallace-Wells and the economist Emily Oster argue in this episode.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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A.I. Is Fueling a ‘Poverty of Imagination.’ Here’s How We Can Fix It.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Artificial intelligence is already showing up in the classroom, so how are colleges, professors and students adapting to it? The New York Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad is joined by the writer Jessica Grose and the columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom to talk about how the humanities are charting a new course, and whether ChatGPT is comparable to SparkNotes.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker, Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Trump Is a Totem For Wealth. What Happens If the Economy Crashes?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 9 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Three Opinion writers on Trump’s most recent power grabs.

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This Pastor Thought Being Gay Was a Sin. Then His 15-Year-Old Came Out.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

It was the worst thing that ever happened to Bill White — and then it became the best.

Changing your mind can be a difficult thing to do, especially when it also means reconsidering the foundation of your faith. For Evangelical Pastor Bill White, that’s what happened when his 15-year-old son Timothy came out as gay to him at Starbucks. On this episode of “The Opinions,” Bill reads from his journal documenting the personal transformation that led him to thank God for making his son gay.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Is There a Smart Way to Cede Power to Donald Trump?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 5 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Three Opinion writers debate whether universities should make a deal with the administration.

In this episode of The Opinions, David Leonhardt, an editorial director in Opinion, debates his colleagues Binyamin Appelbaum and Emily Bazelon on the agreements Ivy League universities have reached with the Trump administration, and what those deals mean for the future of higher education and other organizations fighting with the White House.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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Why Starvation in Gaza Has Reached a Tipping Point

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 2 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

And what it could mean for the future of the conflict in the Middle East.

As Gazans starve, some of Israel’s supporters and global allies, including President Trump, are beginning to change their views on the humanitarian crisis in the region. Michelle Cottle, a national politics writer for Times Opinion, joins the columnists Lydia Polgreen and David French to discuss this shift and Israel’s fundamental mistake.

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Thin, White and Right: The Ideal Christian Woman

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Conservative Christian influencers are reshaping beauty standards and promoting diet culture — and their messages are resonating with women. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the Times Opinion editor Meher Ahmad speaks with the columnist Jessica Grose about how religion and weight loss culture intertwine, and why this pairing is gaining traction.

Read the full transcript here: https://nytimes.com/2025/07/30/opinion/christian-influencers-diet-culture-women.html

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Efim Shapiro and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘African American’ Is Awkward. It’s Time to Use ‘Black.’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The linguist John McWhorter on how language around racial identity is evolving.

Trump urged the Washington Commanders to revert to their former name. They dropped “Redskins” in 2020 following years of pressure. In this episode of The Opinions, linguist John McWhorter joins David Leonhardt, the editorial director of New York Times Opinion, to discuss the politics of language and how we talk about race.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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What the Democratic Party Still Doesn’t Get About Deportations

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

This week on “The Opinions,” the national politics correspondent Michelle Cottle and the columnists Jamelle Bouie and Michelle Goldberg discuss the growing anger over President Trump’s mass deportation policy and the local resistance movements forming in response.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I’m a Genocide Scholar. I Know It When I See It.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Omer Bartov grew up in Israel and served in the Israel Defense Forces. He went on to study the Holocaust and genocide as a historian. In this conversation, he tells the Opinion editor Daniel J. Wakin why he believes Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and what that means for the future of the Middle East and the next generation of Jews in Israel and the United States.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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There Is Hope for Democrats. Look to Kansas.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

David Leonhardt, an editorial director for Opinion, talks to the Opinion correspondent Michelle Cottle about her recent reporting trip to Kansas. Cottle argues that Democrats should look to moderate governors like Laura Kelly of Kansas for a playbook.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump, Epstein and a Stinging SCOTUS Dissent

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 19 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

This week on the “Opinions” round table, the national politics correspondent Michelle Cottle and the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie discuss the right’s implosion over the Trump administration’s decision to close the Jeffrey Epstein investigation and how the Supreme Court handed Trump another win.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Alison Bruzek. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Michelle Harris. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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‘Jeopardy!’ Is a Reminder that Facts Are Fun — and Essential

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Ken Jennings, the “Jeopardy!” host, doesn’t think trivia is trivial. In this episode, he makes the case that shows like “Jeopardy!” aren’t just games — they might be among the last cultural spaces where facts still matter.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek, Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are the Courts Checking Trump — or Enabling Him?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the editorial director David Leonhardt talks to a conservative former federal judge, Michael McConnell, about the role of the courts in President Trump’s second term.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

Subscribe to the show's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOpinionsNYT

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elon Musk’s Revenge Campaign

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

The New York Times columnists Michelle Cottle and David French discuss whether the moment might be right for a third party. And French tells the story of the time he briefly considered a run for president as a third-party candidate.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The World’s Best and Brightest Are Moving, but Not to America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 9 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Trump’s immigration policy has closed America’s doors and could change the way Americans think about citizenship and belonging. The Opinion columnists Carlos Lozada and Lydia Polgreen talk about the reporting that took her to countries all over the world to better understand what America’s future might look like.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The G.O.P. Fought for This Bill. When Trump’s Cuts Came? Silence.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 8 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In the wake of the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Congress passed the most substantial bipartisan legislation around guns in decades. As part of the bill, Republicans pushed for mental health treatment as a solution to school violence. In April the Trump administration abruptly cut $1 billion in funding for that program. Not one Republican has spoken out since. Our senior producer, Jillian Weinberger, tells the story of how this historic legislation came together, why it fell apart and what that says about the state of the Republican Party today, under President Trump.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker, Michelle Harris and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

U.S.A.I.D. Might Be Dead, but the Waste Is Alive and Well

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The United States Agency for International Development no longer exists. As of July 1, what’s left of it has been absorbed into the State Department. President Trump and Elon Musk dismissed the agency as wasteful spending. But on a reporting trip to West Africa, the columnist Nicholas Kristof found that by eliminating U.S.A.I.D., America has left lifesaving resources to deteriorate — with deadly consequences.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Kristina Samulewski. It was edited by Alison Bruzek, Kaari Pitkin and Jillian Weinberger. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker, Michelle Harris and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump May Get His ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ but the G.O.P. Will Pay a Price

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 1 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

There will be many short- and long-term consequences if Republicans succeed in passing President Trump’s signature policy bill, as they aim to do before the July 4 holiday, David Leonhardt, the director of the Times editorial board, tells the national politics writer Michelle Cottle in this episode.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump, Iran and the Slow Creep of Presidential Power

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

War. Did President Trump get America into one? On this episode of “The Opinions,” the columnists Carlos Lozada, Jamelle Bouie and David French dissect the legality and constitutionality of President Trump’s recent strike on Iran, and the gray areas on who has the power to send out American troops.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud and Efim Shapiro. Original music by Pat McCusker and Sonia Herrero. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Iran Really a Threat to the United States? A Debate.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Will Trump’s Iran strikes make the country’s regime “see the light”? In this episode of “The Opinions,” the director of the editorial board David Leonhardt moderates a discussion between the Opinion columnist Bret Stephens, who applauds U.S. military action on Iran, and Rosemary Kelanic, a director of the Middle East program at Defense Priorities, who warns the United States against striking Iran.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are We Headed For Another Endless Middle Eastern War?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:50:00 +0000

The Times Opinion columnist Nick Kristof weighs in on the uncertainties following the United States’ surprise bombing of Iran and Tehran’s retaliation. “President Trump thinks that this is going to be successful and worth it, but the enemy gets a vote as well,” Kristof cautions.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump Is Vulnerable. Democrats Still Need a Strategy.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Given the recent protests against ICE raids, is President Trump alienating some of his supporters? In this episode, the Opinion national politics writer Michelle Cottle and the columnists David French and Jamelle Bouie convene to discuss.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud.. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tom Friedman: ‘This Is One of the Most Remarkable Dramas in the Middle East’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

As tensions between Iran and Israel escalate, questions are mounting about America’s role in the conflict and how President Trump should navigate the crisis. In this episode, the deputy international editor for Times Opinion, speaks with the columnist Tom Friedman to discuss Trump’s next moves, Iran’s regime and Israel’s intentions in the Middle East.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s Not Just Trump Voters. Both Parties Are in Denial.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the editorial board director David Leonhardt talks to Arlie Russell Hochschild about why voters in Appalachia continue to support the president, despite the broken promises of Trump’s first term and looming cuts to social programs they depend on.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Three Opinion Writers on the L.A. Protests and Trump’s Spectacle of Control

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week, President Trump ordered the National Guard and the Marines to Los Angeles to confront protesters. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., he is pushing to advance his policy agenda through a giant spending bill. The Opinion columnists Tressie McMillan Cottom, David French and the national politics writer Michelle Cottle convene to explore how Trump’s attempt to consolidate power is reshaping the American political landscape — possibly for generations to come.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Israeli Hostage Who Refused to Embrace Revenge

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Liat Beinin Atzili was held hostage by Hamas in Gaza for 54 days. When she returned to Israel, she learned her husband was murdered on Oct. 7. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the editor Sarah Wildman speaks to Beinin Atzili about her radically different experience from most other hostages and why she doesn’t believe in revenge.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Beautiful Danger of Normal Life During an Autocratic Rise

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 9 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the editorial director David Leonhardt and the Opinion columnist M. Gessen discuss the very human inclination to try to return to normal life in the midst of a serious crisis.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the Ukraine War the Next Afghanistan?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 5 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

After speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, Donald President Trump says Moscow plans to retaliate against Ukraine for the country’s drone strike over the weekend. Despite President Trump’s ambitious campaign promises, an end to the war still seems far away. On this episode of “The Opinions,” the columnist David French joins Megan K. Stack, a contributing Opinion writer and former Moscow bureau chief for The Los Angeles Times, to discuss the state of the conflict today and why there may not be reason for optimism even in a post-Putin world.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Punk Survival Guide for Gen Z

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 4 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The writer and performer John Cameron Mitchell has a message for members of Generation Z: Stop playing it safe and embrace punk. Mitchell, who wrote “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” sits down with Opinion’s deputy editorial director of culture, Carl Swanson, to talk about what he learned touring around the country and talking with college students about rebellion.

Thoughts? Emails us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Kristina Samulewski. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Isaac Jones and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Politics Feels So Cruel Right Now

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 2 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the Times Opinion politics correspondent Michelle Cottle speaks to the columnists Jamelle Bouie and David French about the rise of “toxic empathy” and how the right has turned compassion into weakness.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tom Friedman: Will Israel’s War Ever End?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 29 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman has spent decades covering Israel and the Middle East. For this episode of “The Opinions,” the deputy editor of Opinion, Patrick Healy, speaks to Friedman about his latest trip to the region, what he envisions for the future of Israel and how the ongoing conflict in Gaza is going to affect the country.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Original music by Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Turn the Middle Against Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 28 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, David Leonhardt, an Opinion editorial director, asks Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan why the Democratic Party has lost so many voters without four-year college degrees, what Americans should do to stand up for democracy and what she appreciates about Senator Bernie Sanders.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Sonia Herrero and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Good News About a Bad G.P.A.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 23 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Opinion contributing writer Megan Stack has a gift for high school graduates who struggled academically or who feel like life is passing them by. In this audio essay, Stack lays out an optimistic vision for the late bloomers and poor performers, arguing that this stage of life doesn’t have to define a person’s future and that there are many paths to happiness and success.

This episode originally aired on June 19, 2024.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Sonia Herrero and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. Our executive producer is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are We in a New Era of Presidential Regalism?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 22 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Who knew what when? Two new books paint a damning portrait of the Democratic Party and what some of its members knew about President Joe Biden’s deteriorating health during the 2024 campaign. On “The Opinions,” the Times editor at large Aaron Retica is joined by the columnist Carlos Lozada to discuss “Original Sin” by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson and “Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House” by Jonathan Allen and Amy Parnes. Retica and Lozada explore the books’ shared themes and where the beleaguered party goes from here.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Kristina Samulewski and Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michelle Goldberg: ‘More Democrats Need to Be Doing This’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 20 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, David Leonhardt, the editorial director of the editorial board, asks the Opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg what Democrats are doing right, what they’re doing wrong and what they should consider doing next.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Isaac Jones. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump’s Era of International Bullying

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 15 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

With President Trump meeting with heads of state in the Middle East this week, the Times Opinion senior international editor Krista Mahr sat down with the columnists Lydia Polgreen and Nick Kristof to talk about how the president is emboldening leaders of all kinds worldwide, and what relationships they’re most worried about.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Four Legal Immigrants Offer a Warning for America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 14 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration is leading to unexpected scrutiny for those who came to the United States through legal channels. As a result, many green card and long-term visa holders are questioning their place in a country that once welcomed them.

In this episode of “The Opinions,” the producer Vishakha Darbha interviews four documented immigrants about their concerns for the future. “What they told me felt like a warning,” Darbha says. “This country doesn’t feel like a place to come to anymore, which might just change the very idea that America has of itself.”

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Are Trump’s Tariffs Trying to Solve a Problem That Doesn’t Exist?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 12 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Jason Furman, an economist who was an adviser to President Barack Obama, believes that trade is an unmitigated good — a rarely heard opinion on the right or the left these days. In this episode of “The Opinions,” David Leonhardt, the director of the Times editorial board, pushes Furman on the downsides of trade and asks him to explain its benefits — for both Americans and the rest of the world.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Pat McCusker and Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Three Democrats Who Saved the Party Before Would Do It Again

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 8 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In the late 1980s, the Democratic Party was trying to figure out how to how to remake itself after having lost four of the five previous presidential elections. That’s when an upstart group of Democratic strategists decided the party needed to tack to the center, with a young, charismatic leader named Bill Clinton.

Today, the party faces similar challenges. Three strategists from Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign, Bill Galston, Elaine Kamarck and Will Marshall, join the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy to discuss what Democrats can learn from Clinton’s success in 1992, and how the party should move forward.

A full transcript of the original round table conversation is here.

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Kristi Noem and the MAGA Beauty Aesthetic

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 7 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

From done-up hair to heavily applied makeup, conservative women — particularly those in President Trump’s orbit — deploy a specific aesthetic to signify their politics. Women like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina are exemplars of this beauty trend, showing off a hyperfeminine look that is at odds with how they wield their power. In this episode,” Meher Ahmad, an editor for Times Opinion, and the Opinion writer Jessica Grose discuss why this aesthetic is tailored for social media’s algorithm — and what it’s really selling.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Michelle Harris. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why a Good Political Argument Is Like Good Sex

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 5 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Conversation has been a staple of The Times’s Opinion pages since 2017. But after eight years, the weekly dialogue between the liberal columnist Gail Collins and her conservative colleague Bret Stephens has come to an end. The editor Aaron Retica joins Gail and Bret to answer reader questions and discuss how they’ve managed years of civil conversations — for the first and last time in audio.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Isaac Jones, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘Donald Trump Will Not Be President Four Years Hence’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 1 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In a live event recorded at the Brooklyn Public Library on Tuesday, Opinion’s deputy editor, Patrick Healy, was joined by the columnists Michelle Goldberg, M. Gessen and Bret Stephens to discuss how President Trump’s second term has reshaped America in just 100 days.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Alison Bruzek. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishkaha Darbha. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Aman Sahota and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Gregg Richards and the staff of the Brooklyn Public Library.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Maureen Dowd and Carlos Lozada on 100 Days of Trump’s ‘Fake Reality’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the Opinion deputy editor Patrick Healy is joined by the columnists Maureen Dowd and Carlos Lozada to dissect the first 100 days of President Trump’s second term and prepare for what’s to come.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishkaha Darbha. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tariffs Could Ruin My Small Business

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s back and forth on tariffs is causing instability and uncertainty across industries, and some of the hardest hit have been small businesses. On this episode, the entrepreneur Yair Reiner explains what it takes to make his product, the Frywall, and how the trade war with China is increasing his production costs and making it harder to work with his partners overseas. He argues that this is disastrous for family-run businesses and is a blow to entrepreneurship in America.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones, Efim Shapiro and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lydia Polgreen on What’s Missing in Our Conversation About Immigration

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy talks to the columnist Lydia Polgreen about the global panic around migration, and what President Trump’s efforts to curb it mean for the United States and its position in the world.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Aman Sahota and Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker, Michelle Harris and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Pope Francis: A Round Table With David French

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the Opinion columnist David French speaks with the writers and Catholics David Gibson and Leah Libresco Sargeant about the legacy of Pope Francis’ leadership in an age of sharp social division.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Trump’s Mafia State

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the columnist M. Gessen argues that when it comes to America’s institutions, President Trump is taking a page out of a Soviet-style playbook.

Thoughts? Emails us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Annie-Rose Strasser. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Isaac Jones, Sonia Herrero and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Trump Administration Is Disappearing People Like the Soviet Union

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Last week, the Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to “facilitate” the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man deported because of an “administrative error,” back to his home in Maryland. But, so far, the administration has not complied. On this episode, Michelle Cottle, who writes about national politics for Opinion, speaks with her colleagues Jamelle Bouie and David French on what this defiance means for the power of the judicial system and the threat it poses to our rights.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud and Efim Shapiro. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bret Stephens on What Trump Gets Right, Wrong and Really, Really Wrong

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this First 100 Days episode, the deputy Opinion editor, Patrick Healy, and the columnist Bret Stephens discuss the nuance of being a conservative and critical of President Trump.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Larry Summers on Trump: ‘The First Rule of Holes Is Stop Digging’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode, the former president of Harvard University and former U.S. Treasury secretary explains the dangers of President Trump’s economic policies, and why we should expect more instability ahead.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Efim Shapiro and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘They're Coming After All of Us. So You Might As Well Tell the Truth.’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the New York Times Opinion columnist Lydia Polgreen speaks to the author and activist Sarah Schulman on resistance and solidarity during politically charged times.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Efim Shapiro. Original music by Pat MuCusker and Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘We’re Playing With Fire’: The Risks of Trump’s Tariffs on China

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 9 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the deputy Opinion editor, Patrick Healy, talks to Binyamin Appelbaum about the goals of President Trump’s tariffs and the risks they pose to America’s place in the global order.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Aman Sahota and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Survive in Politically Volatile Times

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 7 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the columnist David French and Rory Stewart explore how small-c conservatives can keep hope alive in the midst of a populist onslaught.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve Rattner on Just How Bad Things Will Get Under Trump’s Tariffs

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 4 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of “The Opinions,” the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy and contributing Opinion writer, investor and economic analyst Steven Rattner break down how Trump’s “reciprocal tariffs” are already shaking the global economy — and it hasn’t even been 24 hours.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Isaac Jones, Aman Sahota and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker, Michelle Harris and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

To Save Democracy, Here’s a Playbook That Works

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the Times Opinion columnist David French explores how Poland managed to turn the tide against right-wing populism and restore constitutional order.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Michelle Goldberg.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Obama’s Not Going to Save Democrats, but This Might

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Opinion writer Michelle Cottle and contributing Opinion writer Ben Rhodes discuss why the Democratic Party hasn’t launched an effective opposition and who they see as the future of the party.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team also includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Pat McCusker, Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Jewish Comedian Walks Into a Theater in Minnesota

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

In his HBO special, “Just for Us,” the comedian Alex Edelman explores his Jewish identity and whiteness in an unusual way: attending a neo-Nazi meeting in Queens. Before the 2024 presidential election, he traveled to Minnesota to watch a stranger perform his comedy special in a theater performance. In this episode, Edelman joins the Opinion editor Susannah Meadows to reflect on that experience, what “Just for Us” means after Donald Trump’s return to office and why hard conversations — even with extremists — matter now more than ever.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Kristina Samulewski. It was edited by Alison Bruzek, Kaari Pitkin and Annie-Rose Strasser. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

David Leonhardt: 'By the Time Trump Comes for Your University, It's Probably Too Late'

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

On this episode, Patrick Healy and David Leonhardt discuss President Trump’s attempts to remake higher education and argue that higher education should reform itself first.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The show's production team also includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Carole Sabouraud and Aman Sahota. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Worst Part of Pete Hegseth’s Group Chat Debacle

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the New York Times Opinion columnist David French breaks down the security concerns behind the Trump administration’s military discussions on the Signal app and the consequences such a security breach could have on American safety and military strategy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Claim Trump Is Making That ‘Could Break the American System’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

More than two months into his second term, President Donald Trump is testing the limits of the U.S. Constitution. But which of his executive actions are legally sound, and which defy constitutional principles? In this episode, the Opinion columnist Jamelle Bouie sits down with his editor, Aaron Retica, for a deep dive into the crisis that’s reshaping American democracy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. The rest of the show's production team includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tom Friedman: Trump Is a ‘Small Man in a Big Time’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

President Trump has been operating with complete impunity and disregard for American institutions. In this episode, the Times Opinion deputy editor Patrick Healy and the columnist Thomas L. Freidman discuss the repercussions of such behavior on America’s national and international policy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishkaha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Aman Sahota, Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. The show's production team also includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Musk Said No One Has Died Since Aid Was Cut. That Isn’t True.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What does it look like when some of the world’s richest men withdraw assistance for the world’s poorest women and children? After Elon Musk claimed no one had died from cuts to American foreign aid spending, the Opinion writer Nicholas Kristof traveled to South Sudan to see the impact for himself. In this episode, he shares how millions of people now face death and starvation and why Americans — including those who believe in “America First” — should care.

Read Kristof’s interactive essay with photos and charts at nytimes.com/opinion.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Annie-Rose Strasser. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. The show's production team also includes Jillian Weinberger and Vishakha Darbha. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Measles, MAHA Moms and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

A measles outbreak in West Texas has claimed two lives, and President Trump’s secretary of health and human services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is spreading false claims about the disease and the vaccines that nearly eliminated it. In this episode of “The Opinions,” a Times Opinion editor, Alexandra Sifferlin, and an Opinion writer, Jessica Grose, discuss how the successes and failures of our modern health care system brought us to this moment and the Make America Healthy Again movement. We have eliminated “so many things that used to kill so many people that people have forgotten how dangerous those things are,” Grose says.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. Edited by Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Isaac Jones and Pat McCusker. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The Director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They Saved Taxpayers Billions. Trump Fired Them Anyway.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Inspectors general are our government watchdogs. They root out corruption and check for fraud and inefficiencies — all things President Trump has claimed to want to do. And yet, when he took office, he fired more than a dozen inspectors general without warning.

In this episode of The Opinions, we spoke to the reporter and filmmaker Francesca Trianni about her interviews with seven of these inspectors, their relationship to the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, and why they’re worried about the future of American democracy.

To see the videos of the Inspectors General, go to nytimes.com.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The Director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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'Is the Destruction the Point?': Three Opinion Writers on Trump's First 50 Days

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

President Donald Trump is about halfway through his first 100 days in office. In this episode of The Opinions, Patrick Healy talks with the columnist Michelle Goldberg and contributor Frank Bruni about the moments that have defined Trump’s second term so far and what his first 50 days portend for the rest of Trump’s second term.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Original music by Aman Sahota, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The Director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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I’m a Transgender Colonel. Trump Wants Me Out.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time is running out for transgender service members in the U.S. military. The Trump administration has put in motion plans to identify and remove transgender troops, with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth saying they are unfit to serve.

In this episode with the Opinion editor Sarah Wildman, Col. Bree Fram, one of the highest-ranking transgender members of the military, speaks about her journey and her uncertain future.

Note: The views presented are Colonel Fram’s and do not reflect the official guidance or position of the U.S. government or the Department of Defense.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The Director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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David Brooks on Why the Democrats Are Losing to Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 6 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The columnist David Brooks joins Patrick Healy to take stock of President Trump’s fifth address to Congress, to analyze the Democrats’ response, and to discuss where Americans who care about moral leadership should put their energies today.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Original music by Aman Sahota, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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Elon Musk and the Useless Spending-Cut Theater of DOGE

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 5 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

As a fiscal conservative, the columnist David French would normally be excited about a Department of Government Efficiency and the opportunity to rein in spending. But Elon Musk’s approach to cost cutting has left much to be desired. In this conversation with the Manhattan Institute's Jessica Riedl, French reckons with what Musk and his department have wrought on the government, and argues that DOGE will do little to ameliorate the proposed tax cuts in the budget resolution recently passed by the House.

This conversation was recorded on Friday, February 28.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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What Man's Man Politics Is Doing to America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 3 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump’s outsize performance of masculinity has won him attention, elections and the support of manosphere influencers like Andrew Tate and Joe Rogan. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the deputy editor of Times Opinion, Patrick Healy, speaks with its columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom about what Trump’s focus on gender means for women, minorities and American politics.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

You can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur, Jillian Weinberger and Kristina Samulewski. Original music by Aman Sahota, Sonia Herrero and Carole Sabouraud. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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The Most Important Lesson in Sex Ed Isn’t Actually Sex

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

When Hillary Frank took her middle-school-age daughter to see “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.,” she was surprised to learn that the fictional Margaret had more sex education than her daughter. In this episode, Frank reflects on what she wishes she learned in health class as a teenager and how we might improve sex education in schools across the country.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

You can find transcripts (posted within 24 hours) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Efim Shapiro and Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Derek Arthur, Vishakha Darbha and Kristina Samulewski. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The executive producer of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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What an F.B.I. Under Patel and Bongino Might Mean for America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump has appointed Dan Bongino — a former U.S. Secret Service agent, right-wing podcaster and an outspoken critic of the F.B.I. — as the agency’s deputy director. In this episode, the Opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg examines what Bongino’s appointment means for the bureau and for the new order of American politics.

Thoughts? Emails us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump’s Bargain With Putin Is ‘Shameful’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Turning our back on Ukraine would only weaken America.

The Trump administration may be considering negotiating a peace deal with Russia that would end the war in Ukraine. “No American president in the last 80 years and probably 100 years before that would have made this bargain,” Kori Schake, the director of foreign and defense policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, tells the Opinion columnist David French.

Thoughts? Questions? Get in touch at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Thomas Friedman Has Given Up on Politics — but Not on the World

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump appears ready to cut a deal that could end Russia’s war in Ukraine without ever consulting Ukraine. In this episode, the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy talks to the Opinion columnist Thomas L. Friedman about Trump’s unpredictable approach to foreign policy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump and Musk, the ‘Co-Presidents’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the Opinion editor Aaron Retica and the columnist Jamelle Bouie discuss how President Trump, Elon Musk and their supporters are trying to sidestep Congress and reshape executive power.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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My Values ‘Can’t Be Nullified by an Executive Order’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Kirk Wallace Johnson served with U.S.A.I.D. in Baghdad and Fallujah. When he returned to the United States, he spent much of his career helping thousands of Iraqis and Afghans, many of whom risked their lives working with American troops, gain refugee status in the United States through the List Project. As President Trump closes the door on the American refugee program, Johnson and the Times columnist Lydia Polgreen grapple with how to live now, through Trump’s second term, in the face of a muted resistance movement.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Please, Don't Buy Flowers for Valentine's Day

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

It’s Valentine’s Day, and if you celebrate, the chances of giving or receiving a bouquet of flowers is high. But have you considered the environmental impact of those flowers? In this audio essay, the contributing Opinion writer Margaret Renkl explains the true cost of bouquets and argues for other, less environmentally harmful ways to express your love.

This episode originally aired February 14, 2024.

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There’s a Reason Even ‘Smart’ People Surrender to Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The deputy editor of Opinion, Patrick Healy, speaks with the columnist M. Gessen about why so many people and institutions, including Democrats, have bent the knee to Trump, despite strongly disagreeing with him.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I Survived a Kidnapping in Mexico. Now I Tell the Stories of Those Who Didn’t.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In June 2020, Manuel Bayo Gisbert, a visual anthropologist and artist, was abducted by members of a drug cartel outside of Mexico City. He was beaten, tortured and ultimately released, making him one of the few survivors of kidnappings in Mexico. A crisis of violence and disappearances has plagued the country for decades. In this episode, hear Gisbert tell his own story and how it led him to collect the memories of those who are still missing.

Read Gisbert’s essay and see his photos of the survivors and families of the disappeared on nytimes.com.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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This Supreme Court Philosophy Could Constrain Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The biggest challenge to President Trump’s executive orders may be the American judicial system. In this episode, the Times Opinion columnist David French is joined by the federal judge Jeffrey S. Sutton to talk about the principles that guide the courts and how the calls made in those rooms could decide the future of American democracy in the next four years.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump Is Failing the Marshmallow Test. Again.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 6 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The New York Times Opinion writer Binyamin Appelbaum has been writing and thinking about President Trump’s economic policy since his first term in office. In this episode, he joins the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy to talk tariffs, economic expansion and Trump’s recklessness.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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A.I. Isn’t Coming for Moe the Bartender. Not Yet, Anyway.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 4 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the actor Hank Azaria, known in part for his numerous roles on “The Simpsons,” confronts how A.I. is already shaking up the vocal acting world. As he explains the human touches that shape his characters, he also offers hope for a future in which there is still a need for performers like himself. Is it inevitable that artificial intelligence will soon put him and his fellow creatives out of a job?

Read Hank Azaria’s essay and watch him perform his most famous “Simpsons” characters at nytimes.com.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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There’s a Reason Trump Is Going After Birthright Citizenship

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 3 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

On his first day back in office, President Trump signed an executive order to end unconditional birthright citizenship. Lawsuits immediately began pouring in, and a federal judge blocked the order for now. But as the columnist Carlos Lozada and the editor Aaron Retica point out in this discussion, the true impact of the order might not be in changing the law — at least right away — but in challenging the very idea of what it means to be American.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Kash Patel as F.B.I. Director Could ‘Destabilize the Whole System’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 18:55:00 +0000

President Trump’s pick for F.B.I. director, Kash Patel, is no stranger to controversy. And despite a vigorous Senate hearing on Thursday, he appears to be coasting toward confirmation. The New York Times politics correspondent Michelle Cottle spoke to the journalist and author Garrett Graff on what Patel’s F.B.I. appointment could mean for America, and of all of Trump’s nominees, why Patel is among the most dangerous.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Maureen Dowd on Trump the Narcissist, Act II

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Maureen Dowd got her start in journalism during the Nixon era. Over her decades in Washington, she’s developed a keen understanding of how presidents wield power to further their goals. In this episode of “The Opinions,” she joins the deputy Opinion editor, Patrick Healy, to examine the breathtaking speed with which President Trump is carrying out his agenda.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Make America 1897 Again

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What can the 1890s tell us about 21st-century problems and a second Trump administration? According to the Opinion columnist Jamelle Bouie, quite a lot. In this episode, he speaks with Aaron Retica, an editor in Opinion, about what the 19th century and Donald Trump’s surprising new favorite president can tell us about our shifting culture.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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My Sister’s Murder Isn’t for Your Entertainment

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In 1993, Polly Klaas was kidnapped and murdered at the age of 12. Following her death, Polly’s tragic story became a plotline in true crime podcasts, TV shows and books. In this audio essay, Polly’s sister Annie Nichol argues that the popularization of true crime not only re-traumatized victims’ families but also helped create demand for “tough on crime” legislation. “Our legal system actually became more reactionary and more fixated on punishment and fundamentally less just,” she says.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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'Destabilize, Destabilize, Destabilize': What Trump Is Really Up To

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President Trump has declared that his second term will begin with the “most extraordinary first 100 days of any presidency in American history.” To track, interrogate and challenge his most consequential actions during his first few months in office, Times Opinion’s deputy editor, Patrick Healy, is beginning a weekly series on “The Opinions” focused on Trump’s first 100 days. He kicks things off with the Times writer David Wallace-Wells, exploring the president’s executive orders on climate and energy as Mr. Trump prepares to tour the destruction wrought by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump’s First Day: He is Exploiting ‘Civic Ignorance’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:45:00 +0000

Opinion's deputy editor, Patrick Healy, was joined by the columnists David French and Michelle Goldberg to makes sense of President Trump’s first day in office. We're learning “how much the American experiment has depended on the honor system,” French says.

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Thomas Friedman: The Global Challenges Facing Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Times columnist Thomas Friedman says this is a rare moment in the Middle East when “everything is in play and everything is possible." In this episode of The Opinions, he speaks to editor Dan Wakin about the forces brewing in the Middle East, what he expects of the relationship between Netanyahu and Trump and the one gig he would give up his column to try to do.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump Won’t Change the Fact That America Needs Immigrants

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump has promised to severely curtail legal and illegal immigration as he takes office for the second time. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the writer Binyamin Appelbaum argues that while the United States needs to improve its immigration enforcement, the country also desperately needs immigrants for cultural and economic vibrancy. Immigrants, Appelbaum explains, are the country’s “rocket fuel,” and he argues for specific legal changes to ensure the United States’ immigration policy matches its national interests.

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This Jail in Rural Maine Is a Model for Treating Opioid Addiction

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Kristina Samulewski with help from Caroline Losneck. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Kaari Pitkin. Mixing by Carole Sabouraud. Original music by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones and Carole Sabouraud. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Jan Hoffman, and Alice Anderson at Acadia Recording.

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The Home Insurance L.A. — and America — Needs

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Los Angeles wildfires offer a stark reminder that we no longer live in an era of reliable home insurance. An exodus of insurance companies from disaster-prone areas has put the American dream of homeownership in peril. In this episode, the climate reporter Nick Mott makes the case for a national climate catastrophe insurance plan that could help protect families from the devastating losses being experienced in California.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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How Trump’s ‘Favorite President’ Can Prepare Us for His Next Term

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Argentina’s head of state, Javier Milei, is the latest inspiration for Donald Trump and his supporters, including Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the Times Opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg explains what his admiration for Milei and his austerity policies might mean for Trump’s new administration.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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David French on the Case for Banning TikTok

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Supreme Court seems ready to uphold the law that would ban TikTok unless the app’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sells it to a U.S. buyer. The Opinion columnist David French talks with the politics editor Katherine Miller about why he believes the app poses a unique threat to U.S. security.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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When We Face the End of Life, ‘It’s Not Sadness We Should Fear. It’s Regret.’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 9 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Sarah Wildman lost her 14-year-old daughter, Orli, to cancer in March 2023. Before she died, Orli had questions about the end of her life, but as Wildman explains in this episode, that conversation wasn’t encouraged by Orli’s doctors and caregivers. Wildman argues that health care providers need to be frank and empathetic with patients and their families about the realities of death. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to sit with these questions at the end of life,” she says. “It’s not impossible, but doing so requires us to recognize: It’s not sadness we should fear. It’s regret.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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A Deceptively Simple Way to Rebuild Trust in Scary Times

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 8 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

As the world grows increasingly fractured, taking the time to engage with strangers has become even more important. The artist and graphic journalist Wendy MacNaughton has created a simple but powerful way for people to connect in an isolated world.

In this episode, she shares how she brings people together by having them draw each other in public spaces. All it takes is 60 seconds, two pieces of paper, two pens and the willingness to look — really look — at someone you’ve never met.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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There’s More to Wine Than Just a Cancer Warning

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 7 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Vivek Murthy, the surgeon general, recently recommended that cancer warnings be included on all alcohol products. The author and wine enthusiast Boris Fishman argues that doing so would place all forms of liquor in the same bucket — one that ignores the history, the generations of labor and the joy that accompany sipping a glass of wine. He’d like people “to think about this as just one example out of many in a life that risks becoming stripped of a certain kind of magic because we’re trying to protect ourselves out of existence.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump’s Attack on D.E.I. Will Cost Us All

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 6 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In two weeks, the Biden administration will step down, and with it, the most diverse cabinet in American history. In this episode, The Times’s editorial board member Farah Stockman explores the impacts of Joe Biden’s historically significant appointments, both in the United States and abroad.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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This Diet Buzzword Is Misleading

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 2 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

President-elect Trump’s pick for secretary of health and human services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been critical of ultraprocessed foods. But how bad are they? In this episode, Nicola Guess, a dietitian and researcher at the University of Oxford, explains why we shouldn’t be scared of the label “ultraprocessed.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Dead Squirrels, TikTok Bops and Raw Milk: The Internet Slop of 2024

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 1 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In a time when the internet is teeming with content and hyperfragmented, how do you determine which memes, viral videos and ideas actually matter? The Times Opinion writer Jessica Grose sits down with Ryan Broderick, the creator of the Garbage Day newsletter, to understand the trends that made a splash both on- and offline in 2024.

This conversation was recorded in December 2024.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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See Ya, 2024. Here’s What We Loved.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As the year comes to an end, Times Opinion staff members — and our listeners — shared the things from 2024 they wanted to take with them into the new year. They range from impromptu hangs to weird A.I. TikToks. Take a listen.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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What the World Gets Wrong About Jimmy Carter’s Legacy

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 23:08:15 +0000

President Jimmy Carter had a rich legacy, often marred by misunderstandings. Despite lasting only one term, his work post-presidency stands tall in its influence around the world. In this audio obituary, the Opinion columnist Nicholas Kristof reminisces on his interactions with the former president, Carter’s social work across countries in Africa and his influence on Kristof’s worldview.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Secrets of the World’s Favorite Smell

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The scent of vanilla is instantly recognizable — it’s also in danger of disappearing. In this ode to the vanilla bean, writer Aimee Nezhukumatathil explains why climate change might lead to the destruction of the beloved plant.

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David Brooks: I Found Faith in a Crowded Subway Car

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Over the past decade, the Times columnist David Brooks has gone from agnostic to deeply religious. In this episode he explores the evolving role of faith in his life, a force he describes as “a longing.” As he explains, “The joy is not in the satisfaction of the longing, but the joy is in the longing itself. It’s a good feeling to worship generosity itself.”

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Bird Flu, Pneumonia: It's Time For Weekly Virus Reports

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Flu season has arrived again, and we still lack mainstream communication systems about risk levels and how to protect ourselves from seasonal viruses and emerging threats like bird flu. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the epidemiologist Caitlin Rivers argues that public health professionals should take a page from meteorologists and broadcast virus reports like weather reports.

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Thomas Friedman on Syria, the U.S. and Trump

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The New York Times Opinion columnist Thomas Friedman and the Opinion editor Daniel Wakin discuss how and why the United States should use its influence in Syria following the ousting of its longtime dictator Bashar al-Assad.

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What If Our Democracy Can’t Survive Without Christianity?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The New York Times Opinion columnist David French, a lifelong evangelical, speaks to Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and an atheist, about the role of Christianity in redeeming and supporting American democracy.

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Paul Krugman: After 25 Years, My Parting Words to Readers

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The columnist reflects on a quarter century of contrarian opinions at The Times. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why I’m Not Dreading Holiday Chores This Season

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Holidays often mean more work. Here’s how to view that work differently. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tell Us What Brought You Joy In 2024

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Is there a movie, a book, a meme, a memory, a hobby you took up or a vice you quit that stayed with you this year, or helped you unwind and forget about it all? Times Opinion wants to hear about it.

Leave us a voice memo at theopinions@nytimes.com. We need your name, phone number, and where you’re calling from. Tell us what you’re holding onto, and why, as you head into 2025. You may get to hear your pick in an upcoming episode.

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What the Glorification of Luigi Mangione Reveals About America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The political scientist Robert A. Pape has studied political violence for the past 30 years. In this episode of “The Opinions,” he describes what his research illuminates about the homicide of United Healthcare’s chief executive, Brian Thompson. Pape also explains why he is not surprised by the background of Luigi Mangione, who has been charged with the killing.

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The One Thing the U.S. Can Do to Help Syria Now

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Opinions, Farah Stockman, a member of the Times’s editorial board, argues that letting U.S. sanctions against Syria expire, while not without risks, could go a long way to helping ordinary Syrians build a prosperous and stable nation.

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The Security Threat Hundreds of Miles Above Our Heads

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

What would happen if a nuclear weapon detonated in space, destroying the satellites that make so much of our digital existence — and our national security — possible? In this episode, William Hennigan, the lead writer for Times Opinion’s At the Brink series, speaks with the man whose job is to make sure that never happens.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Power Struggle Behind Trans Youth Health Care

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 9 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the New York Times Opinion columnists Lydia Polgreen and M. Gessen discuss the historic Supreme Court case United States v. Skrmetti, its implications for gender-affirming care for minors in Tennessee, and what it could mean for how the federal government interprets “equal rights” moving forward.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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How a Book From 1981 Anticipated This Political Moment

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 6 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, the New York Times Opinion columnists Carlos Lozada, a former book critic, and Pamela Paul, previously the editor of The Times’s Book Review, each share one book that, in their opinion, can help us understand this point in history.

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The Secret to Enjoying Awkward Holiday Parties

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 4 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The holiday season is known for bringing dreaded cocktail party small talk. But your conversations with colleagues, friends or family need not be awkward drudgery, according to Opinion Audio’s executive producer, Annie-Rose Strasser. In this episode, she reveals her no-fail solution to making every conversation accessible and exciting, no matter who shows up to the holiday party.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Five Opinion Writers on What Biden Should Do in His Final Days as President

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 3 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

President Biden has about six weeks left in office, and with Republicans set to control both houses of Congress and the presidency next year, his final acts may be more important than ever.

So we asked five Opinion writers: What should Mr. Biden’s priority be over these next few weeks?

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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David Brooks on Staying Humane in Inhumane Times

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 2 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

These are cruel and challenging times. How did previous generations hold on to their sanity — and humanity — in the face of violence and instability?

In this episode, the columnist David Brooks seeks answers in the intellectual and moral traditions of ancient Athens and Jerusalem. The key to thriving, he argues, is to embody behaviors that might at first seem contradictory.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Can Learning to Love Beans Help Save the Planet?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In a nation filled with meat lovers, how can we persuade Americans to stop eating animals and help save the planet? The food writer Bee Wilson believes the answer lies with food preferences — specifically, changing them. “It is possible to learn to love new foods, and it’s something transformative and actually joyous,” she says. In this episode, she makes the case for changing your taste for beans, a humble legume that is packed with extraordinary flavor.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Thomas Friedman: Trump’s Path to a Nobel Peace Prize?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The Israel-Gaza war poses multiple challenges for President-elect Donald Trump’s new administration. But the former president has proposed a plan for peace in the region before. The question is: can he be convinced to pursue it again? In this episode, the columnist Thomas L. Friedman argues that Trump has an opportunity to make history.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Nicholas Kristof: Consider Skipping Meat This Thanksgiving

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

It’s Thanksgiving week, and the columnist Nicholas Kristof wants you to consider skipping the turkey. “I don’t want to wag my fingers at people and tell them, ‘Look, this is how you should eat,’ but I do think that there are really important ethical questions that we have to ponder and confront,” he says. In this episode, Kristof argues that Americans, who spend thousands of dollars each year caring for their dogs, should spare a thought for the pigs who live short lives in brutal conditions before ending up on breakfast plates.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I’m a Food Editor. I Hate Thanksgiving Dinner.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Margaux Laskey, an associate editor at New York Times Cooking, has a surprising confession: She doesn’t like Thanksgiving dinner. After days of effort, she finds the final product bland and boring. “I love gratitude and thankfulness, but I’m grateful I don’t have to eat turkey if I don’t want to,” she says. In this episode, she shares ways to celebrate Thanksgiving — no cooking required.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Bret Stephens: The Logic Behind Trump’s Cabinet Picks

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

From Matt Gaetz to Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Donald Trump’s outlandish cabinet selections reflect the power of social and political deviance, the Opinion columnist Bret Stephens argues in this episode.

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Trump Should Bring the Ukraine War to Its ‘Inevitable Ending’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

President-elect Donald Trump has said that as president, he will negotiate an end to the carnage in Ukraine in a single day. A peace deal could have ugly effects for Ukraine, but according to the contributing writer Megan Stack, Trump should put an end to the war and finally be the friend to Ukraine America likes to believe it is.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump’s Win Terrifies Me. Why Don’t Boys My Age Care?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Exit polls from the presidential election reveal a divided country: Women tended to vote for Kamala Harris; men, for Donald Trump. And that divide may extend to citizens who aren’t yet of voting age. Naomi Beinart, a 16-year-old junior, witnessed it at her school in the days after the election. In this episode, Beinart says that while her fellow female students fear for the future, “this election didn’t seem to measurably change anything for the boys around me, whether their parents supported Mr. Trump or not.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Hungary Shows Us How a Second Trump Term Might Play Out

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump has referred to Hungary’s autocratic prime minister, Viktor Orban, as “a great man, a great leader.” In this episode, the columnist M. Gessen, who is in exile from Vladimir Putin’s Russia, draws parallels between Trump, Orban and Putin. Gessen explores what life might look like in Trump’s next term and describes their fear that, this time, “people are going to retreat into their private lives and try to shut out the political world.”

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Robert Kennedy Jr. Revealed What Is Missing in Public Health Messaging

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In a recent interview, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he expected that the Trump administration would recommend against putting fluoride in drinking water, which was met with public outrage and confusion. The economist Emily Oster argues the public deserves more nuanced analysis and explanation on public health issues like fluoridation to build trust. Public health is complex, she says, but experts need to believe that the public can understand the context in which decisions are made — and explain that context accordingly. “I think that the right way to move forward is with nuance,” Oster explains. “That is how we will get to a greater good overall.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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David Brooks: Maybe Bernie Sanders Is Right

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The biggest divide in America today is not about race or gender, the Times Opinion columnist David Brooks argues. In this episode, he explains how the “diploma divide” can help us understand Donald Trump’s overwhelming support from working-class Americans and what Democrats can do to win them back.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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‘People Are In for a Really Rude Shock’ on Trump’s Economy

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Voters chose Donald Trump, in part, in response to inflation under President Biden. And yet, the columnist Paul Krugman argues, the new president-elect’s economic plan “is the most inflationary program probably that any American president has ever tried to implement.” In this episode, Krugman outlines four reasons Trump’s economic plans will hurt Americans’ wallets.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Stop Pretending Trump Is Not Who We Are

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

For those caught off guard, Trump’s victory has been a shock. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the columnist and “Matter of Opinion” co-host Carlos Lozada encourages his fellow Americans to ask a sobering question: If Trump is our preferred leader, what does that mean for who we are as a nation?

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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The Hubris That Cost Democrats the Election

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 7 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The New York Times Opinion columnists Lydia Polgreen and Tressie McMillan Cottom discuss what was revealed about America on Tuesday, why the Democrats failed and what individuals can do about the future.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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David French: It’s Time to Admit America Has Changed

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 6 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump’s enduring hold over the Republican Party may send him back to the White House. On this episode of The Opinions, the columnist David French joins deputy Opinion Editor Patrick Healy to discuss the future of the G.O.P. and what a second Trump term might mean for America.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Have Election Anxiety? These 5 Minutes Can Help.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 5 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Today, many of us are ruminating on an unknowable future. Eliza Barclay, a climate editor for New York Times Opinion and a certified mindfulness instructor, is here to help with that. In this 5-minute mindfulness meditation, she aims to help listeners ease their fears and anxieties about the election by drawing their attention to the present moment.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why Trump's Conduct Hasn’t Tanked His Chances

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 4 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The Deputy Opinion Editor Patrick Healy on one of the voter insights that has stayed with him from Donald Trump's former campaign manager.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Ricky Martin, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Rita Moreno on Puerto Ricans’ Votes

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 2 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

After Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, three Puerto Rican icons — Ricky Martin, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Rita Moreno — shared a collective message in a Times Opinion essay: “Our vote won’t be a reaction to racist jokes. We’ll be voting for the future of a country that could be majority-minority by midcentury,” they wrote. In this episode, Miranda reads the trio’s essay.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Has Trump Lost His Crucial Latino Support?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 1 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Republicans’ growing support among Latinos is no longer guaranteed after a comedian made a racist joke at Donald Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally. But could it cost Trump the election? Isvett Verde, a Times Opinion editor, speaks with Mike Madrid, a Republican and an expert on Latino voting trends and behaviors, about why the election may hinge on each candidate’s ability to sway Latino voters.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Embrace Unstructured Naughtiness. Ditch the Switch Witch.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Some parents don't let their children keep their halloween candy, and instead have a "switch witch" come in the night and replace the sweets with a toy. But the Opinion writer Jessica Grose believes the spooky day doesn’t have to be so complicated. In this audio essay, she offers another approach to micromanaging holidays by letting kids’ imaginations run wild.

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A Second Trump Term Could Lead to a ‘Backdoor Federal Abortion Ban’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With less than a week to go until the most contested election in generations, law professor Mary Ziegler considers what a second term for Donald Trump would mean for abortion rights. In this audio essay, she argues that while the former president may seem indifferent on the campaign trail to tightening abortion laws, there is a real possibility that if re-elected he will seek to appease his base by using his executive power to ban abortions nationwide.

This episode originally aired on Feb. 6, 2024.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why This Senate Candidate Is a Potential ‘Shock to the System’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Much of the country is laser focused on the presidential election, but control of the Senate is also up for grabs in November. One of the seats in contention is, surprisingly, in deep-red Nebraska, where the independent Dan Osborn is running against the Trump-endorsed Republican Deb Fischer. In the episode of “The Opinions,” the columnist Michelle Goldberg travels to Nebraska to report on Osborn’s appeal and argues that his decision to run lays the groundwork for a “potential new avenue for a left-wing style of populist politics.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Real Reasons Why the G.O.P. Is Spending Millions on Anti-Trans Ads

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The Republican Party has been investing millions of dollars in anti-trans advertisements in a play to reach moderates and voters on the left who feel uncomfortable with or confused by transgender rights. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the New York Times Opinion deputy editor, Patrick Healy, and the columnist M. Gessen discuss these ads and the fear they’re tapping into in American society.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I Went Viral For Crying Over Hurricane Milton. I Couldn’t Help It.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The meteorologist John Morales has been a hurricane specialist in Miami for decades, but he never found himself close to tears until he witnessed the intensification of Hurricane Milton while live on the air earlier this month. In the weeks since, the clip of Morales choking up has been viewed millions of times online. In this episode of The Opinions, Morales reflects on his emotional response to the Hurricane and urges Americans who share his climate anxiety to talk about how they feel — and vote accordingly.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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More Babies Aren’t the Only Solution to Falling Birthrates

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Despite growing concerns, the Opinion writer Jessica Grose doesn’t want you to panic about the falling birthrate. In this episode of “The Opinions,” she argues there’s a positive picture behind the decline in births and suggests there are creative solutions that could help us embrace a future below replacement rate.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why Trump Is Doing Better Than Polls Suggest

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Many undecided voters aren’t undecided; they’re just uncomfortable, Patrick Healy, the deputy Opinion editor, argues. In this episode of “The Opinions,” he says that “uncomfortable Trump voters” — people who don’t want to admit that they’re going to vote for Donald Trump — could end up costing Kamala Harris the election.

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Sorry, Trump: ‘There Is No American Race or Blood That Outsiders Can Pollute’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Since coming down the escalator to announce his bid for president in 2015, Donald Trump has disparaged and dehumanized immigrants. In this episode of “The Opinions,” the Opinion columnist Carlos Lozada, an immigrant from Peru, reflects on what it means to not just discuss the issue but to be at the center of it.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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My Patients Are Children. Dobbs Forced Me to Leave Them Behind.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In the wake of the Dobbs decision, South Carolina banned abortion after around six weeks of pregnancy. The law does have a few exceptions, including rape and incest. Dr. Kristl Tomlin, a pediatric and adolescent gynecologist, saw what those exceptions look like in practice for young victims of rape — and she decided to leave the state. In this episode, Dr. Tomlin describes how having to involve the sheriff’s department and lawyers in her work hurt her patients, and pushed her to leave the community she loved.

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We Need a ‘Managed Retreat’ In Florida

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Florida’s two major hurricanes in the past month highlight how decades of deregulation and overdevelopment under Republican leadership have made the state increasingly vulnerable to climate change. After more than 30 years of living through Florida hurricanes, the writer Jeff VanderMeer believes a “managed retreat” is a necessary response to the growing frequency and intensity of storms.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Two Opinion Columnists on Melania Trump’s Memoir

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Melania Trump promoted her recent memoir, “Melania,” with a series of glossy and cryptic promotional videos stating the desire “to share my perspective: the truth.” But what does the self-titled memoir reveal to us about the often inscrutable former first lady? The bookish Opinion columnists Carlos Lozada and Pamela Paul discuss what they learned — and often, what they did not — from her work.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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America Needs More Children. JD Vance’s Shame Game Won’t Get Us There.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Despite concerns over the falling birthrate, especially on the right, the Times Opinion columnist David French recognizes that the push to have more families — and bigger ones — has become problematic. In this audio essay, French explains why he thinks the recent political conversation on the topic reveals “the worst form of natalism.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Hiroshima Survivors Were Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Hear Their Warning.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese group of atomic bombing survivors, “for its efforts to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.” Over the summer, in an effort to bring light to this new and terrifying nuclear era, Opinion’s editor, Kathleen Kingsbury, and the writer W.J. Hennigan interviewed Japanese survivors of the U.S. atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In this audio essay, they share stories from two of the survivors they met, Chieko Kiriake and Keiko Ogura, who were just 15 and 8 years old on Aug. 6, 1945.

To see more photographs and read more stories from them and other survivors, click here.

This piece originally appeared on nytimes.com on Aug. 6, 2024.

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Why I Don’t Regret Paying My Kid $100 to Read a Book

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Mirielle Silcoff received backlash when she wrote a guest essay for Times Opinion about paying her 12-year-old daughter $100 to read a novel. In this audio essay, Ms. Silcoff explains why she doesn’t regret her decision, and why she felt like the experience for her daughter was worth the cost.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why Kamala Harris's 'Call Her Daddy' Strategy Might Not be Enough

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 9 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Donald Trump has been on a tour of the Gen Z influencer ecosystem, from Theo Von to Adin Ross. In this episode of “The Opinions,” Daniel Pfeiffer, a senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, argues that Trump is trying to win the support of young men, a once loyal Democratic constituency. Mr. Pfeiffer says Democrats ignore these voters at their peril, for the 2024 election and beyond: “There is no post-Trump era if Gen Z men become firmly adherents of MAGA philosophy,” he explains.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I Was a Teacher in Gaza. This Is What Haunts Me Now.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 8 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The last time Mosab Abu Toha, a poet and teacher, was in a classroom in Gaza, it was to shelter with his students and their families, all seeking refuge from Israeli airstrikes. Since then, he and his family have fled Gaza, and they temporarily reside in the United States. In this audio essay, he shares what it means when classrooms cease being places of learning and become a family’s only hope for survival.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I Live in Israel. I Never Hear About What My Country Is Doing to Gaza.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 7 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Israeli anger toward Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been building in the year since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. Mairav Zonszein, an Israeli-American journalist and analyst, argues that this anger does not extend to the plight of the Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank. More than 41,000 people have been killed in Gaza, and yet, she says, Israelis are stuck in a cycle of “apathy” and “indifference,” unable to fully realize the devastation befalling their neighbors.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Real Loser of the V.P. Debate

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 3 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

M. Gessen, an Opinion columnist, watched Tuesday’s vice-presidential debate with a sense of dread. In their mind, the question was not who would win the debate but, rather: How much did we lose? In this audio essay, Gessen argues that when we put Trump and his acolytes on the same platform as regular politicians and treat them equally, “that normalization degrades our political life and degrades our understanding of politics.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Thomas Friedman: ‘This Is Code Red Time in the Middle East’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 1 Oct 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Thomas Friedman, an Opinion columnist and Middle East correspondent, is keenly aware of the many red lines that have been crossed in the growing conflict between Israel and Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas. He says, after Iran’s latest attack on Israel, anything is possible — from symbolic retaliation to the bombing of a nuclear facility. Hear why he believes that “this really is the most dangerous moment in the modern Middle East.”

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Luxury Turkish Travel Is the Least of Our Worries

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 1 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, was indicted last week for soliciting foreign funds for his campaign and for personal use. Casey Michel, director of the Combating Kleptocracy Program at the Human Rights Foundation, argues that to prevent the further degradation of our democracy, officials need to be more aggressive about enforcing existing foreign interference laws.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Only Patriotic Choice for President

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Listen to Times Opinion Editor Kathleen Kingsbury make the case for Kamala Harris.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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A Fix for Trump’s Stop the Steal Strategy

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Jesse Wegman, a member of the Times editorial board, has argued that to make the American election process more straightforward and just, the United States should elect its president based on the outcome of the popular vote rather than the Electoral College. But in this episode of “The Opinions” he goes a step further, arguing that the Electoral College renders elections more vulnerable to legal manipulation for political ends.

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‘I Knew I Should Leave, I Couldn’t Leave’

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Flash floods plagued Utah and much of the Colorado Plateau this summer. Climate change has made them more frequent and more intense. In this audio essay, Terry Tempest Williams, a writer and conservationist, describes the terrible beauty of witnessing one such flood alone in her home.

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Nicholas Kristof: Readers Respond to My Column on Trump Voters

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the columnist Nicholas Kristof argues that Democrats should focus their criticism on Donald Trump instead of Trump voters.

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JD Vance Is Wrong — Kamala Harris Isn’t Changing Her Accent

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Recently, Republicans have taken to accusing Kamala Harris of using fake accents while on the campaign trail. In this episode of “The Opinions,” John McWhorter, an Opinion writer and linguist, argues the vice president is simply revealing a piece of herself by slipping into “Black English,” a form of code switching that is actually quite presidential.

Questions? Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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What Liberals Miss About the MAGA Movement

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

David French, a Times columnist, believes that to understand MAGA, we have to understand the joy and sense of belonging that the movement bestows upon its adherents. In this episode, he explains why Donald Trump’s most outrageous statements — such as the lie that Haitian immigrants are eating pets — appeal to his followers’ “sense of gleeful transgression.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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Paul Krugman on the Interest Rate Cut and What’s Next

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The economist and New York Times Opinion Columnist Paul Krugman makes the case for aggressive rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and argues that now is not the time for caution.

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It’s Time We Start Naming America’s Deadliest Climate Disasters

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Heat waves kill more Americans than hurricanes, tornadoes and floods combined. But despite their deadly toll, we rarely treat them with the urgency they demand. Eric Klinenberg, a sociologist, has spent the better part of his career studying the effects of heat waves. In this episode, he argues that to take heat waves more seriously, we need to start naming them like we do hurricanes — a simple, zero-cost action that could end up saving lives.

Questions? Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Why Have Kids? A Liberal Case for Natalism

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With Anastasia Berg. Having children has become increasingly “coded as conservative and reactionary,” philosopher Anastasia Berg argues. She makes the case for why young liberals and progressives should take the decision back — and stop delaying it. Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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Trump, Tariffs and the Truth About His Economic Plans

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For voters whose top issue is the economy, the choice is clear, argues Binyamin Appelbaum, a member of the Times Editorial Board. Though Vice President Kamala Harris’s plans may be ill-defined, he says, Donald Trump’s plans — curbing immigration, raising tariffs and cutting taxes — would actually leave consumers worse off than they are today.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com

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'I Feel Like She Humiliated Him': How Trump Lost the Debate

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Michelle Goldberg, the Times Opinion columnist, and Patrick Healy, the deputy Opinion editor, discuss the best and worst moments of the debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Will Harris’s apparent debate night victory matter to the swing state voters who can make the difference?

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Charging Parents for School Shootings Protects Weak Gun Laws

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

After school shootings in Michigan, southern Virginia, and now Georgia, parents have been charged in connection to their children’s actions. Megan Stack, a Times contributing opinion writer, argues that states should turn their attention to gun storage and access laws instead of criminalizing parents.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Trump Picks His Own Rally Music. What Is He Trying to Say?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 9 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Songs from Luciano Pavarotti, Sinead O’Connor and “Cats” may not strike you as typical campaign music, but they’re on repeat at Donald Trump’s political rallies. The staff editor Katherine Miller has spent a lot of time at Trump rallies, and in this episode, she takes listeners on a tour of the unusual — and often subversive — soundtrack the former president curates for his campaign events.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Netanyahu Is Trying to Save Himself. Will He Sink Harris?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 5 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s drive to stay in power is harming Israel’s global reputation and complicating the U.S. presidential election for Democrats, the Opinion columnist Thomas L. Friedman argues. In this audio essay, Friedman offers a new name for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and explains why Netanyahu might be rooting for Donald Trump this November.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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These Chemicals Are Hurting Us. Why Aren’t We Regulating Them?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 4 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

They’ve been found in our milk, our eggs, our water supply and our bodies.

In this audio essay, the environmental activist Erin Brockovich makes the case for better regulation of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, contaminating our world. PFAS exposure has been associated with fertility issues and developmental delays in children. And while lawsuits have been filed against some of the biggest manufacturers of PFAS, Ms. Brockovich says those suits aren’t the only — or even the best — solution.

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These Young Voters Offer a Road Map For Kamala Harris

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 3 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Listen in on this focus group with young undecided voters — a group that could determine the outcome of the upcoming presidential election. The New York Times deputy Opinion editor, Patrick Healy, spoke with some Gen Z voters to better understand the issues they’re focused on and how they’re feeling about Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

In this episode, he argues that while many young undecided voters don’t trust Harris, there are clear ways for her to win their support.

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Uninspired by Plant-Based Foods? Add Some Anchovies.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 2 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Anchovies can help make plant-forward eating more delicious and appealing, argues Christopher Beckman, an archaeologist-turned-anchovy-lover. He is the author of “A Twist in the Tail: How the Humble Anchovy Flavored Western Cuisine,” and he makes the case for why we should all embrace the small, oily fish.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Kamala Harris Wrote Two Books. They Paint Different Pictures.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Kamala Harris has made her time as a prosecutor central to her presidential pitch. In this audio essay, Carlos Lozada, a Times Opinion columnist and host of “Matter of Opinion,” examines Harris’s two memoirs, reflects on how her criminal justice message has changed and explores what that may reveal about her candidacy.

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Can You Tell Which Short Story ChatGPT Wrote?

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this era of artificial intelligence, who can compose a better beach read for the vacationing masses? The beloved fiction writer Curtis Sittenfeld … or ChatGPT?

Listen as Sittenfeld sits down with the Opinion editor Susannah Meadows to talk about what they learned after pitting her writing against artificial intelligence, and hear excerpts from both stories to decide for yourself which is the more compelling read.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The ‘Sad Missed Opportunity’ of the Democratic Convention

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The Democratic Party’s recent position — or lack of position — on Gaza “feels like gaslighting to a lot of Democratic voters,” Farah Stockman of the editorial board argues in this audio essay. The party claims to value social justice and human rights, but when it comes to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, she says, Kamala Harris “needs to do more, and she can do more, to assure people she’s going to have a more evenhanded approach when she becomes president.”

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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The Democrats’ Joyfest is Over. Now Comes The Slugfest.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Kamala Harris was flying high last week, but Donald Trump is poised to bring her back down to earth.

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Tressie McMillan Cottom on Why Trump Is Struggling to Box Harris In

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Should voters care about Kamala Harris’s identity? In this audio essay, the sociologist and New York Times Opinion columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom argues that while we shouldn’t ignore the unprecedented nature of Harris’s campaign, the Democrats need to balance that newness against the electorate’s desire to return to a time of political normalcy.

Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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I’m a Doctor. I Was Unprepared When I Got This Disease.

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Dr. Deborah Heaney was enjoying a vacation in the Caribbean when she was struck with a sudden, debilitating illness. It took her days, a flight home and some luck before she was finally diagnosed with dengue fever.

As temperatures rise globally, mosquito-borne tropical illnesses are spreading, and our medical systems are failing to keep up. In this episode, Dr. Heaney argues that the medical community must do a better job of incorporating education on diseases like dengue into their practice.

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James Carville on How Democrats Can Win on the Economy

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In 1992, James Carville, the longtime political strategist, coined the phrase that helped win Bill Clinton the presidency: “The economy, stupid.” In this episode of “The Opinions,” he shares what he thinks Vice President Kamala Harris should do to capture American voters on the issue that he says is “first and foremost on people’s minds”: the cost of living.

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David French on the Pro-Life Case for Kamala Harris

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

David French, an Opinion columnist, is an evangelical, pro-life conservative. For the first time in his life, he plans to vote for a Democratic presidential candidate: Kamala Harris.

He says he will vote against Donald Trump “precisely because I’m conservative.” In this audio essay, David explains how he arrived at his decision and argues for other conservatives to join him.

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Nicholas Kristof on the Failure of West Coast Liberalism

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:50:00 +0000

Nicholas Kristof is an Oregonian and, he is quick to point out, a liberal. But in this audio essay, Kristof takes liberals to task for their governing of cities on the West Coast. It’s an election year, and so he asks the question he believes many Americans are thinking: “Why put liberals in charge nationally when the places around the country where liberals have the greatest control are plagued by homelessness, crime and dysfunction?”

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Charles Blow on Coming Out Late in Life

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:40:00 +0000

For Pride Month, the Opinion columnist Charles Blow dove into the stories of people who embraced fluid sexual identities later in life. He argues that despite the increasing number of people who come out as queer during adolescence, some don’t recognize or reveal an attraction to the same sex until their 40s or 50s. In this audio essay he shares their stories and his own.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Farah Stockman on How Democrats Can Win Rural America

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Democrats tend to do well in cities; Republicans tend to do well in rural areas. But winning back at least some rural voters is essential for Democrats to succeed in statewide elections. Farah Stockman, a member of the New York Times editorial board, found one Democrat who is trying out a new message in rural Ohio.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Michelle Goldberg on the Kamala Harris Sugar High

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:20:00 +0000

With Democratic enthusiasm for Kamala Harris at a fever pitch, the New York Times Opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg spent a day in Atlanta at one of her rallies speaking with voters. In this audio essay, Goldberg argues that the energy among voters she met there is real, and more importantly, will last.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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David French on Being Canceled by His Former Church

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:10:00 +0000

A few months ago, the Opinion columnist David French and his family were canceled by their former church. In response, French wrote about the painful experience of being abandoned by his faith community. The column led to an outpouring from readers sharing their own thoughts and similar experiences. In this audio essay, French sits down with his editor, Aaron Retica, to discuss the fallout and listen to some of the responses he received from readers.

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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David Brooks on Ending America's 'Social and Emotional Breakdown'

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

When David Brooks was growing up, he was emotionally detached, he says. Over the past several years, he’s worked to change that. In this audio essay, Brooks shares what he learned opening up with others on his journey to become a fuller human being: that better conversation could help save America from its “social and emotional breakdown.”

Thoughts? Questions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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Introducing 'The Opinions'

theopinions@nytimes.com (New York Times Opinion) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 18:09:29 +0000

Commentary from the biggest names in New York Times Opinion. One voice, one idea, four days a week, in 10 minutes or less.

Thoughts? Suggestions? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

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