Today, Explained

Andrew Prokop, Vox's political correspondent, dives deep into President Trump's Senate impeachment trial. He unpacks the political strategies behind the trial's delays and key decisions made by Senate leaders. Prokop highlights the contentious nature of witness testimonies, including the implications of Lev Parnas's connections and statements. The discussion contrasts the trial with past impeachments and reveals how public reactions and Republican support were shaped by these unfolding events.

Julie Sook, a Professor at the CUNY Graduate Center and author of "We, the Women," dives into the pivotal moment as Virginia ratifies the Equal Rights Amendment. She details the century-long struggle for women’s equality in the U.S., from the influential figures of the 1970s to the ongoing challenges in Congress. Sook highlights the importance of the ERA in addressing gender-based violence and workplace discrimination, and how it's a crucial tool for amplifying women's voices in politics.

Justin Ling, a Toronto-based freelance journalist, dives deep into the tragic story of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752. He examines the heartbreaking details of the crash amidst rising geopolitical tensions and the diverse backgrounds of its passengers. Ling discusses Iran's contradictory responses, from initial denial to eventual acknowledgment of responsibility. He also explores the historical context of civilian airliner shootdowns and the emotional toll on affected families, particularly in Canada, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for justice.

Ella Nilsen, a Vox reporter who covered the 2020 Democratic primary election, joins to discuss Senator Cory Booker's struggles and the new DNC rules that seem to favor wealthier candidates. They delve into the growing feud between prominent candidates Warren and Sanders, raising questions about electability, especially concerning women in politics. The conversation highlights how evolving dynamics and representation issues in the Democratic Party can impact underdog candidates and the political landscape as a whole.

The podcast dives into the historic parallels between the AIDS crisis and the current opioid epidemic. It shares a powerful story from San Francisco's early days of AIDS, highlighting community activism and the launch of awareness campaigns. Listeners learn about the legislative challenges surrounding the opioid crisis and proposed solutions like the CARE Act. Emotional narratives, including a mother's story about her son with AIDS, emphasize the need for urgent public action and the impact of stigma on both health crises.

Professor Sarah Legg, an expert on wildlife and ecosystems from the Australian National University, discusses the devastating impact of recent bushfires in Australia. With nearly one billion animals lost, she highlights the catastrophic effects on biodiversity, focusing on the plight of koalas. The conversation touches on the political divides surrounding climate change and the urgent need for action. Legg also reflects on the harrowing experiences of communities facing such unprecedented environmental crises, emphasizing the interconnection between climate and wildlife.

Kristen Meinzer, a seasoned podcast host known for her royal wedding podcast, dives deep into the recent royal upheaval involving Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. They discuss the couple's decision to step back from royal duties, exploring the complex media relationships and public sentiment surrounding them. The challenges of modernizing the monarchy, along with their commitment to social justice, are also examined. Meinzer emphasizes how their quest for independence redefines royal traditions in today's world.

Irin Carmon, a senior correspondent at New York Magazine renowned for her insights on the #MeToo movement, delves into the complexities of Harvey Weinstein's trial. She discusses how #MeToo stands trial alongside him, reshaping societal norms around sexual misconduct. The conversation covers the challenges of jury selection in high-profile cases, the intricate defense strategies used, and the complicated dynamics of consent and victimhood, all while highlighting the broader cultural shifts regarding accountability and justice.

Jen Williams, a host of Vox's Worldly and an expert on Middle Eastern politics, dives into the complex dynamics of U.S.-Iran relations. She discusses Iran's missile strikes against U.S. bases in Iraq and the strategic choices behind them. The conversation navigates Iraq's struggle for sovereignty amid foreign interventions and the impact of these tensions on its national identity. Williams also highlights the challenges facing Iraqis as they seek to voice their frustrations and assert their autonomy in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Dina Esfandiary, a Fellow at the Century Foundation in London and an expert on Iranian politics, shares her insights on the implications of Qassem Soleimani's assassination. She argues that it was a strategic boon for the Iranian government, sparking nationalistic fervor amidst public protests. The conversation unveils the complexities surrounding Soleimani's legacy, showcasing both admiration and criticism. Additionally, personal narratives from Iranian-Americans highlight the deep emotional impact of these events on their identities amidst rising political tensions.