The Brian Lehrer Show

Emily Bazelon, a staff writer at The New York Times Magazine and legal expert, dives into the alarming erosion of judicial independence during the Trump era. She highlights a bipartisan survey revealing concerns from former DOJ officials about the politicization of the department. Bazelon discusses high-profile resignations signaling deep institutional stress and analyzes the chilling effect of investigations on public service, particularly regarding Jerome Powell. She also considers strategies to resist this trend and the limited actions of bar associations.

Tom Nichols, professor emeritus of national security affairs and Atlantic contributor, dives into the rising trend of politicians using profanity in public discourse. He examines Donald Trump's unique vulgarity and its influence on political behavior. The discussion includes when swearing may be appropriate and the implications for role modeling in leadership, especially for children. Nichols also highlights how context matters in profane speech and the media's responsibility to present such remarks without censorship.

David Brand, a housing reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the contentious sale of 5,000 rent-stabilized apartments by the bankrupt Pinnacle. He reveals shocking details about Pinnacle’s debts and violations that led to its downfall. Brand raises concerns about the buyer, Summit, known for its poor record on tenant care. Listeners share harrowing tenant experiences while discussing alternatives to private buyers, like community land trusts. Lastly, Brand hints at an imminent ruling that could impact tenants’ living conditions and repair timelines.

Margaret Talbot, a staff writer at The New Yorker, provides an insightful look into the fallout from President Trump's provocative comments about Greenland. She discusses Denmark's feelings of betrayal and anxiety over strained U.S. relations. Talbot dives into Greenland’s political context and its residents' lack of interest in U.S. control. The conversation also covers NATO's military responses and Europe's potential reactions to escalating tensions, revealing a complex web of geopolitical concerns.

The West Park Presbyterian Church, a 135-year-old Upper West Side landmark, could soon have its landmark protections strip, allowing developers to turn the lot into luxury housing. Mark Ruffalo, award-winning actor and activist, and Peg Breen, president of the New York Landmarks Conservancy, discuss the community's effort to save the building from the wrecking ball, and hear from callers about their own connections to the space, which has served as an arts and community center for decades.

Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams is now a cryptocurrency entrepreneur. But his recently launched crypto token—which he claimed would combat antisemitism—crashed almost immediately, fueling scam accusations. Leo Schwartz, senior writer at Fortune, talks about the former mayor's curious venture.

Laura Jedeed, freelance journalist focused on American conservative and far-right movements and author of the Substack Firewalled Media dot com, talks about the shoddy screenings hopeful applicants to become ICE agents receive, which became clear when she was offered a position after applying at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement hiring expo - despite her public profile as a journalist critical of ICE and the Trump administration. => "You’ve Heard About Who ICE Is Recruiting. The Truth Is Far Worse. I’m the Proof." (Slate, Jan 13, 2026) 

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is term-limited out and will be replaced by Mikie Sherrill on January 20th. Nancy Solomon, WNYC reporter and host of “Ask Governor Murphy,” offers the final recap of her monthly call-in show.

In this insightful discussion, Robin Wright, a seasoned columnist for The New Yorker and expert on Iranian politics, delves into the recent protests in Iran. She highlights the historical significance of Tehran's Grand Bazaar and its echoes of the 1979 revolution. Wright discusses the generational divide in dissent, the economic strife from sanctions, and the potential risks of U.S. intervention. With over 1,850 protesters killed, she examines the complex landscape of the movement and the unpredictable role of the Revolutionary Guard.

Jimmy Vielkind, a seasoned state issues reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dissects Governor Hochul's address, focusing on affordability as she gears up for re-election. He highlights her strategic balancing act between centrists and progressives, especially her alliance with Mayor Mamdani. The conversation touches on the state's stance on ICE enforcement and the challenges in funding new childcare programs. Additionally, they explore her proposals to revamp tax policies, speed up housing approvals, and enhance nuclear energy as a climate strategy.