The NPR Politics Podcast

A debate over putting Trump's face on new coins opens into a bigger story about airports, programs, buildings, and even mountain tributes bearing his name. The conversation explores why honoring a sitting president breaks old political taboos, how loyalists help turn signals into symbols, and what all this says about power, branding, and democratic norms.

The conversation tracks the murky path of the U.S. conflict with Iran as troop movements spark fears of escalation. It digs into why NATO allies are resisting calls for help, how control of the Strait of Hormuz could hinge on partners, and why a huge war funding request could become a major test in Congress. It also touches on MAGA tensions, shaky polling, and the politics of selling the war.

President Trump’s pick to run the Department of Homeland Security, Oklahoma Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin, advanced past the Senate Homeland Security Committee, even after Mullin clashed with committee chairman Rand Paul, R-Ky., at Wednesday’s hearing. We discuss what new leadership would mean for immigration enforcement operations.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, immigration policy correspondent Ximena Bustillo, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

A high-stakes Senate clash takes center stage as lawmakers debate a bill tying voting to proof of citizenship. The conversation digs into why the measure faces steep odds, how it could reshape election rules nationwide, and why this long-running fight over voter fraud remains politically explosive. It also explores whether tougher voting rules could hurt the very voters they aim to rally.

A crowded Illinois primary becomes a window into the Democratic Party’s next chapter. The conversation explores generational change, competing ideological lanes, and the fight to win back young disillusioned voters. It also turns to AIPAC-backed spending, a Senate money battle, and the broader question of succession, age, and where the party goes next.

Three recent attacks raise urgent questions about what connects political violence in the U.S. The conversation explores antisemitism, anti-Muslim rhetoric, and the way social media can supercharge extremist threats. It also looks at how political leaders can either inflame fear or help cool tensions.

Record Democratic turnout in Texas primaries and its implications for a pivotal Senate match. A deep look at Latino voter surges and whether momentum could reshape statewide politics. Discussion of stalled Homeland Security funding and how it has snarled airport security. Conversation about rising Islamophobia and anti-Semitism in political rhetoric. A lighthearted sports and phone mix-up segment wraps things up.

Focus groups with Michigan swing voters dig into confusion over why the U.S. is at war in Iran. Voters worry about the economic costs and want funds spent on housing, child care and infrastructure. Many invent motives when explanations are unclear and express cynicism about presidential messaging. Participants stress domestic priorities and could be persuadable on foreign policy if trade offs are clear.

Scott Horsley, NPR chief economics correspondent who explains inflation and energy markets, breaks down how the war in Iran is rattling oil supplies. He walks through why gas spiked, how fuel shocks ripple into food and transport costs, and why markets and policy makers face tough tradeoffs. The conversation also touches on public mood and political consequences.

Jude Joffe-Block, an NPR reporter on power and influence, and Kat Lonsdorf, an NPR immigration reporter, break down DHS tracking of not only deportation targets but U.S. citizens who oppose the agency. They describe surveillance tools like license plate readers, data consolidation and contractors, subpoenas to unmask critics, and the chilling effects on public speech.