The Daily

A Third Grader’s Guide to the Impeachment Hearings

Nov 13, 2019
Michael S. Schmidt, a national security and federal investigations reporter for The New York Times, joins curious third grader Leo for a lighthearted yet insightful discussion. They navigate the complexities of impeachment, with Leo's innocent questions shedding new light on the term 'whistleblower.' Schmidt explains the political dynamics surrounding the impeachment inquiry, particularly the U.S. president's actions towards Ukraine. Their conversation blends engaging childlike curiosity with serious political analysis, making a complex topic more accessible.
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INSIGHT

Whistleblowers

  • Leo understands a whistleblower as someone who witnesses wrongdoing and reports it.
  • He compares it to sports, where a whistle signifies breaking the rules.
ANECDOTE

Whistleblower Analogy

  • Michael Barbaro and Leo discuss the origin of the term "whistleblower."
  • Leo gives an example from Delaware Beach involving dolphins and a lifeguard.
INSIGHT

Quid Pro Quo or Threat?

  • Leo questions if Trump's actions constitute a quid pro quo since it's more of a threat than an exchange.
  • He believes Trump is threatening Ukraine with withholding money if they don't investigate Biden.
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