

The Briefing with Jen Psaki
MS NOW, Jen Psaki
Jen Psaki tackles the biggest issues of the week and features one-on-one interviews with newsmakers.
Episodes
Mentioned books

5 snips
May 21, 2025 • 41min
'I did not waver': Rep. McIver speaks out on federal charges after ICE center confrontation
LaMonica McIver, a New Jersey Democratic Congresswoman facing federal charges after a confrontation at an ICE detention center, shares her experience of the chaotic oversight visit and discusses the political narrative surrounding it. Senator Elizabeth Warren chimes in to analyze the rushed spending bill and its implications for the country. The conversation dives deep into accountability, the challenges of due process, and the broader impacts of proposed health care funding cuts on vulnerable populations. It's a captivating look at the intersection of politics and personal struggle.

15 snips
May 17, 2025 • 33min
'Big, brutal setback': How GOP infighting sent Donald Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' off the rails
Preet Bharara, former U.S. Attorney, shares his legal insights on Donald Trump's faltering legislative efforts, while Jordan Klepper, known for his comedic takes on MAGA, dives into the disarray within the GOP. They discuss the fallout from a damaging Supreme Court ruling and how internal conflicts hinder Trump's ambitious budget plan. The conversation also touches on the shifting dynamics of young voters, emphasizing the significance of cultural relevance and authenticity in political engagement.

9 snips
May 16, 2025 • 42min
Trump's power grab scheme exposed; Supreme Court birthright citizenship case focuses on court powers
Matt Platkin, New Jersey's Attorney General and key plaintiff in a birthright citizenship case, joins Jamie Raskin, Maryland Congressman and House Judiciary Committee member, to discuss the implications of the Supreme Court reviewing birthright citizenship. They explore how Trump's executive actions challenge judicial precedent and highlight the risks of nationwide injunctions enabling political maneuvers through friendly courts. The conversation delves into the balance of executive power and individual rights, shaping the legal landscape for citizens across the U.S.

11 snips
May 15, 2025 • 42min
Polls show Americans aren't buying Trump team's ignorance ploy
Senator John Ossoff from Georgia, a key player in Appropriations and Intelligence, and New Jersey's Senator Cory Booker, known for advocating Medicaid, share compelling insights. They discuss the troubling trend of political leaders evading accountability, particularly highlighted by Trump's administration. The senators emphasize the pressing importance of Medicaid in their states, revealing the stark realities for millions dependent on it. Personal stories strengthen their call for healthcare advocacy, underscoring the broader implications for democracy and public trust.

20 snips
May 14, 2025 • 42min
Real purpose of Trump's Mideast trip comes into focus as his explanations fall apart under scrutiny
Adam Schiff, a Democratic Senator from California, pushes for an investigation into the Defense Department's potential gift to Trump, raising eyebrows about corruption. Alondra Nelson, a professor and former NSF chair, shares her resignation in protest of Trump's actions, illuminating the erosion of integrity in federal agencies. Discussions cover the financial discrepancies surrounding Trump's Middle East trip, raising alarms about his foreign business interests and the implications for U.S. diplomacy and taxpayer dollars. It's a thrilling dissection of politics and ethics.

16 snips
May 10, 2025 • 46min
'They obviously targeted me': Newark mayor describes chaotic arrest in confrontation at ICE facility
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka recounts his chaotic arrest at an ICE facility, where he was charged with federal trespassing while advocating for immigrant rights. Joined by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, they discuss the alarming aggression of ICE agents and the implications for civil rights and governance. Baraka expresses outrage at the targeting of elected officials and reflects on the disturbing state of political accountability. The conversation emphasizes the tension in current immigration policies and the importance of leadership during these tumultuous times.

32 snips
May 9, 2025 • 42min
As Trump's parade of failure marches on, his distraction trick loses potency
Letitia James, New York Attorney General, has gained national attention for her relentless legal battles against Donald Trump. In their conversation, she discusses the latest failures of Trump's nominees, revealing the chaotic nature of his political appointments. James also highlights the disconnect between Trump's optimistic claims and the harsh economic realities faced by Americans. The discussion touches on ongoing legal actions against Trump, emphasizing the critical role of state attorneys general in pursuing accountability and protecting citizen rights.

10 snips
May 8, 2025 • 42min
Trump scoffs at rising prices for families while his inner circle cashes in on foreign deals
Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota and former U.S. Representative, and Raphael Warnock, Senior U.S. Senator from Georgia and senior pastor, discuss the troubling effects of Trump's tariffs on baby products, which have driven up prices for new families. They explore how Trump's family and associates profit from foreign deals, raising ethical concerns about political leadership. The conversation emphasizes the disconnect between the wealthy elite and everyday Americans, advocating for policies that better serve working-class families.

10 snips
May 7, 2025 • 42min
Psaki: The Trump administration fails the 3 a.m. phone call test
Pete Buttigieg, former Secretary of Transportation, offers a candid analysis of current air traffic issues and the significance of well-qualified leadership. Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland, passionately discusses political activism and the importance of social safety nets. Both guests critique the inadequacies of Trump's administration during crises, highlighting recent transportation and military missteps. They emphasize the need for a clear vision in the Democratic Party to connect with working-class voters and redefine patriotism through meaningful action.

Apr 29, 2025 • 43min
Everywhere and All at Once: A Path Forward for Democrats
Jen Psaki welcomes Governor J.B. Pritzker, who gave a speech yesterday in New Hampshire lambasting Trump, criticizing “do-nothing” Democrats and calling for mass mobilization against the growing number of unprecedented attacks the Trump administration has launched against migrants, universities, and the American economy. They discuss the administration’s stance on migrants, which hits home for Pritzker personally, as the child of Ukrainian immigrants. Jen also speaks with The Atlantic's Ashley Parker, who interviewed Trump in the run-up to his 100-day milestone. Check out our social pages below:https://twitter.com/InsideWithPsakihttps://www.instagram.com/InsideWithPsaki/https://www.tiktok.com/@insidewithpsakihttps://www.msnbc.com/jen-psakihttps://bsky.app/profile/insidewithpsaki.msnbc.com
To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


