The Brian Lehrer Show

David Remnick, the Editor of The New Yorker, discusses the latest in national politics, including how presidential rhetoric can exacerbate divisions. He analyzes the Democratic Party's internal struggles and the responsibility of leadership during recent violent incidents. Joining him, documentary filmmaker Marshall Curry unpacks the significance of John Hersey's 'Hiroshima' and traces The New Yorker's evolution from humor to impactful journalism. They reflect on the magazine's role in shaping writers' careers and its enduring mission over the past century.

Anna Kodé, a reporter for The New York Times specializing in design and culture, dives into the implications of New York’s shift towards a cashless society. She highlights the struggles faced by street vendors, performers, and the homeless who depend on cash transactions. The discussion explores the challenges of digital payments, privacy concerns, and the impact on tipping and budgeting habits. Anna also offers practical advice for supporting cash-dependent individuals in the community.

Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter, shares insights on Mayor Adams’ term, highlighting his focus on public safety stemming from crime fears. Jeffery Mays discusses the mayor's navigation of pandemic challenges and the city's reopening. Ben Max analyzes Adams' policy moves, including literacy reforms and housing initiatives. The discussion also centers on the ongoing migrant crisis, examining its impact on the administration's image and operations. The guests unravel public perception, mixed successes, and the complexities of Adams' legacy in New York City.

Diane Ravitch, an education historian and former NYU professor, shares her remarkable turnaround on school choice and testing in her latest conversation. She recounts her childhood in segregated schools, revealing how it shaped her views on equity. Ravitch critically examines charter school failures and the pitfalls of standardized testing, arguing they perpetuate inequality. She highlights the need for community schools and better support for disadvantaged students, advocating for systemic changes to enhance public education.

Listeners share exciting in-person holiday shopping events, from craft fairs to pop-up shops. Discover unique offerings like custom-stitched stockings and floral subscriptions. Explore Awesome Brooklyn for local goods and attend the Long Island Craft Guild fair for fine crafts. Enjoy affordable art gifts at Deep Space Gallery and check out a curated market in Grand Central featuring 50 small businesses. Massage therapy sessions are also highlighted as thoughtful gifts for stressed shoppers.

Jonathan Cohn, a health policy journalist and author, delves into the current state of ACA subsidies and Republican divisions over the issue. He highlights who relies on these subsidies and explains the 2021 enhancements that improved access. Cohn also discusses Trump's mixed proposals to extend support and the challenges of routing funds directly to individuals. As he explores Democratic negotiations and enduring health care cost issues, listeners gain insight into the complex landscape of American health care reform.

Judith Enck, founder of Beyond Plastics, professor at Bennington College, former EPA Region 2 administrator, and author of the new book The Problem with Plastics: How We Can Save Ourselves and Our Planet Before It’s Too Late (The New Press, 2025), discusses her new book which takes a look at how plastic went from being a "marvel of modern science" to a toxic industry that pollutes the environment and impacts health, plus tips on how to reduce everyday exposure to plastics.

Zach Cohen, a CNN national security reporter, joins to discuss Senator Mark Kelly's bold stance on refusing illegal orders during military service. The Pentagon's decision to investigate Kelly's comments raises eyebrows, especially given the ongoing scrutiny around U.S. military operations. Cohen elaborates on the risks service members face when resisting orders, the implications of recent strikes on drug boats, and Secretary Pete Hegseth's controversial tactics. Tensions rise as legal and ethical dilemmas unfold within the military landscape.

Susan Glasser, a staff writer for The New Yorker and an expert in U.S. foreign policy, dives into Trump's recent immigration actions following a tragic shooting incident. She critiques the administration's mixed signals on asylum for Afghan allies while tracing the roots of Trump's nativist rhetoric. The discussion also highlights historical parallels with the 1924 immigration act and examines the military's unclear stance towards Venezuela. Through it all, Glasser addresses the tangled web of politics, law, and the implications for U.S. relations abroad.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy advocates for a return to etiquette and dress codes in air travel. Listeners share nostalgic memories of flying from the 1950s and 60s, contrasting them with modern experiences marked by lower fares but also increased stress. Discussions highlight the improvements in flight tracking and safety since the no-smoking ban, while some express frustration over airlines' cost-cutting measures. There's a debate over the relevance of civility in today's travel culture, reflecting on how 9/11 changed security protocols and travel dynamics.