

The Lead with Jake Tapper
CNN Podcasts
CNN's lead DC anchor and chief Washington correspondent, Jake Tapper, hosts this two-hour long weekday afternoon program, with headlines from around the country and the world, the top stories in national and international news, politics, health, money, the environment, sports and popular culture. The Lead also concentrates on bringing stories that aren't found on front pages—buried leads—to the forefront.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 22, 2024 • 42min
Source: P!nk To Close Out DNC; John Legend Performs Tonight
Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, shares insights as he gears up for a significant moment at the Democratic National Convention. He discusses the whirlwind of excitement surrounding performances by P!nk and John Legend while reflecting on the political tensions that color his nomination speech. Walz explores personal narratives, including his military service and struggles with fertility, tying them to larger issues like gun control and the upcoming election landscape. The conversation also touches on how abortion rights initiatives may sway key swing states.

Aug 21, 2024 • 42min
The Obamas To Headline Night Two Of The DNC
Barack Obama, the former U.S. president, and Michelle Obama, an influential author and first lady, join Doug Emhoff, the second gentleman and lawyer, as they gear up for night two of the Democratic National Convention. They discuss the vital themes of unity and hope that resonate throughout the event. Barack highlights his pivotal endorsement of Kamala Harris, while Doug shares personal stories to bolster the campaign. The conversation dives into the shifting political climate, the importance of honesty in political discourse, and the energetic atmosphere of the convention.

Aug 20, 2024 • 46min
Pres. Biden To Headline First Night Of DNC
Vice President Kamala Harris, a key figure in U.S. politics and the first female vice president, reflects on her anticipated acceptance of the Democratic nomination. The atmosphere at the Democratic National Convention is electric, highlighting the transition of leadership and Harris's role in unifying the party. Discussions include the complexities of the DNC platform, challenges in her campaign, and the significance of Biden's upcoming speech amidst evolving political narratives. The dynamics of the convention are further shaped by protests and the pressing calls for change from younger generations.

Aug 17, 2024 • 43min
Harris Lays Out Economic Plan Focusing On Food, Housing, Tax Cuts
Kamala Harris, the Vice President, shares her new economic plan, emphasizing improvements in food accessibility, housing affordability, and tax cuts aimed at easing the financial burden on families. She contrasts her vision with that of Donald Trump, revealing the split among Republicans on supporting a second Trump term. An unnamed GOP leader from a battleground state expresses his concerns about Trump’s candidacy and its implications for the party, reflecting broader tensions within Republican ranks as they prepare for the upcoming election.

Aug 16, 2024 • 27min
Harris Campaign Says “Debate Over Debates Is Over”
A notable political figure's press conference raises questions with its ambiguous intentions. The upcoming debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is set against shifting electoral landscapes. Trump's messaging strategy focuses on economic issues, while his campaign faces adjustments with key returns like Cory Lewandowski. The discussion emphasizes the significance of debate participation and the urgency of mobilizing young voters in pivotal states like Arizona and Georgia. Harris's commitment to consumer rights highlights her economic policies as the election approaches.

4 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 55min
Trump Back On Campaign Trail As Allies Urge Him To Stay On Issues
Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, shares insights as he navigates his campaign trail amid pressures from allies to maintain a positive message. He discusses his economic strategy and the challenges of personal attacks within political discourse. Trump critiques the current administration's handling of economic issues and addresses the influence of political advertising on public perception. The conversation also touches on the ethical implications of such advertising and recent findings regarding artificial sweeteners.

Aug 14, 2024 • 43min
UAW Files Federal Labor Charges Against Trump & Musk
Donald Trump faces federal labor charges from a major union, sparking intense debate about his campaign strategies. An investigation opens into a break-in at his campaign offices, hinting at cyber vulnerabilities linked to Iranian hackers. Meanwhile, Biden prepares for a pivotal speech at the Democratic National Convention, signaling shifts in the election landscape. With worker hardships on the rise, the intricate ties between labor unions and political dynamics come into sharp focus as the 2024 race heats up.

5 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 42min
Trump: Harris Has “Flip-Flopped” On Border Policies, Fracking
Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, faces Donald Trump's dubious accusations regarding crowd sizes and his tactical approach for 2024. She discusses her campaign alongside Biden, addressing evolving economic policies amidst Republican critiques. Elon Musk's influence on the presidential race is also dissected, highlighting the interplay of tech and politics. The conversation shifts to the implications of controversial statements made by Republican candidates and their effects on voter sentiment in key states.

Aug 10, 2024 • 42min
Brazil’s President: 62 People Killed In Place Crash
Vice President Kamala Harris discusses her campaign efforts in Arizona, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and community involvement. Gov. Tim Walz outlines the impact of immigration issues in battleground states. Former President Donald Trump shares insights on his campaign strategies in reliably red states, highlighting tensions within the GOP. The podcast also covers the tragic plane crash in Brazil that claimed 62 lives, intertwining discussions of national tragedies with political narratives and voter sentiments.

6 snips
Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 22min
Trump Holds Lengthy New Conference At Mar-a-Lago
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris bring their insights on a recent press conference by Donald Trump, highlighting his declining communication skills and ongoing campaign challenges. They discuss the dynamics of rising political competition and concern surrounding an alleged ISIS-inspired attack. Kamala shares her plans for upcoming debates, while the duo reflects on the importance of transparency in political communication amid troubling developments in security and veterans' rights.


