Post Reports

On this Election Day, we talk about how the events of Jan. 6 have affected our elections. Plus, what nations participating in COP26 will have to give up to avoid more climate change catastrophes.  Read more:For months, journalists at The Washington Post have been trying to understand: How did the insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6 happen? And what’s happened to the country since then?As part of a three-part investigative series by The Washington Post, Rosalind S. Helderman has been reporting on how a deep distrust of the voting process has taken root across the country.“Democracy is in some ways a trust exercise,” she says. “We all go into it together and we make an agreement with each other that we are going to trust each other enough to hold an election, and if we lose, to accept the will of the majority. And if you don’t trust that anymore — if the bonds of that trust erode — you just can’t have a democracy.” Then we turn to climate reporter Sarah Kaplan for an update on COP26 in Glasgow — the massive climate change summit of almost 200 countries where she says “humanity tries to figure out once again how we are going to tackle climate change.” If you value the journalism you hear in this podcast, please subscribe to The Washington Post. We have a deal for our listeners: one year of unlimited access to everything The Post publishes for just $29. To sign up, go to washingtonpost.com/subscribe. 

Aaron Davis, an investigative reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the catastrophic failures of law enforcement before the January 6 Capitol attack. He reveals how agencies overlooked clear warnings of violence, despite experts flagging the danger. The discussion sheds light on communication breakdowns and bureaucratic hurdles that hindered a prompt response. Davis also explores the political fallout from that day and its lasting impact on public trust in democracy, making for a riveting analysis of a critical moment in American history.

Will Oremus, a tech reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the revelations surrounding Facebook and Instagram following whistleblower leaks. He discusses the controversial proposal for a kid-friendly Instagram amid concerns about privacy and mental health. The conversation also highlights Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri's unexpected public interview and the generational divide in social media perceptions. Oremus analyzes Facebook's rebranding as Meta and its future direction, raising questions about accountability in the company's engagement with the metaverse.

Leana Wen, an emergency physician and Washington Post columnist, shares her insights on navigating the next phase of the pandemic. She discusses the promising news around COVID-19 vaccines for young children and offers advice on booster shots for adults. Wen emphasizes the vital role of at-home testing in controlling the virus and advocates for accessible testing solutions. She also highlights the importance of safety in family gatherings as winter approaches, urging listeners to stay informed as new variants emerge.

Sonia Rao, a pop culture reporter for The Washington Post, shares her insights on the tragic shooting incident on the set of "Rust" that claimed the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. She delves into the shocking circumstances that allowed a loaded gun to be on set and discusses Hollywood's urgent reassessment of gun safety protocols. Rao highlights the responsibilities of those handling firearms and the likelihood of stricter regulations coming into play as the industry grapples with this devastating event.

Yeganeh Torbati, an investigative reporter at The Washington Post, dives deep into the complex motivations of Senator Joe Manchin, particularly regarding the child tax credit's expansion. She shares poignant stories from West Virginia families who rely on this aid amidst economic struggles. The discussion highlights the growing disconnect between Manchin’s political decisions and the realities faced by his constituents, revealing the challenges of balancing traditional Democratic values within a conservative landscape.

Elizabeth Dwoskin, a Silicon Valley reporter for The Washington Post, unpacks Facebook's internal dynamics leading up to the January 6th attack. She reveals that after initial successes in combating misinformation, the company dismantled its protective measures, allowing rioters to use its platform for organization. Inside tensions and contradictions in Facebook's public narrative emerge, highlighting its struggle with accountability and the urgent call for transparency and regulation in social media. This eye-opening discussion sheds light on the platform's profound societal impact.

Issa Rae, the creator and star of HBO's 'Insecure,' shares her insights on the show’s final season and the personal growth of its characters. She discusses the nostalgic themes of friendship and self-discovery that resonate with a generation of Black women. Issa reflects on taking risks, like her character's bold leap into organizing a block party, illustrating the show's authenticity. The conversation also touches on the cultural legacy of 'Insecure' and the ongoing struggle for privacy in today's social media landscape.

In this insightful discussion, Margaret Coker, Editor of The Current and investigative journalist, dives into the chilling details surrounding the trial of the three men accused of murdering Ahmaud Arbery. She explains the historical roots of Georgia's controversial citizen’s arrest law, revealing how it legitimized vigilante violence for years. Coker also addresses the profound impact of this case on the local community, the ongoing struggle for justice, and the complicated dynamics of jury selection in high-profile court cases.

Fenit Nirappil, a health reporter for The Washington Post, sheds light on the looming threat of a 'twindemic' as flu and COVID-19 cases potentially surge together. He emphasizes the urgent need for flu vaccinations, which have proven effective in saving lives. The discussion explores the exhaustive strain this dual outbreak could place on healthcare resources, particularly amid fluctuating immunity levels. Nirappil also addresses parental concerns about rising flu cases among children and the evolving public attitudes toward vaccinations in the wake of the pandemic.