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The hosts of NPR's All Things Considered help you make sense of a major news story and what it means for you, in 15 minutes. New episodes six days a week, Sunday through Friday.Support NPR and get your news sponsor-free with Consider This+. Learn more at plus.npr.org/considerthis
Episodes
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8 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 8min
Do federal agents have 'absolute immunity?'
In this discussion, David Cole, a Georgetown Law professor and former ACLU national legal director, delves into the complex issue of federal agents' immunity. He challenges the notion of 'absolute immunity,' emphasizing that it doesn’t exist for federal agents and conditions of liability. Cole raises concerns about the potential bias in investigations when political pressures are involved. He also discusses survivors' civil remedies and warns about the critical need for transparency in handling police-related incidents to maintain public trust.

22 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 9min
Reflections on an 'electrifying' round of protest in Iran
Join Jason Rezaian, a former Tehran correspondent for the Washington Post who survived imprisonment in Iran, as he analyzes the recent wave of protests that have transformed from economic discontent into a powerful anti-government movement. He discusses why these protests feel uniquely significant and critiques U.S. policies that have failed to effectively support the Iranian people. Rezaian also reflects on his decade in exile, expressing pride in the protesters while fearing governmental backlash. His insights offer a compelling look into a pivotal moment in Iran.

23 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 11min
What happens if the Fed loses its independence?
Adam Posen, an expert economist and president of the Peterson Institute for International Economics, dives into the critical issue of Federal Reserve independence. He discusses the alarming implications of the Trump Justice Department's subpoenas, which could intimidate the Fed and damage its operational autonomy. Posen explains how political pressure can lead to rising inflation expectations and what happens when the Fed’s leadership is under attack. He warns about the long-term costs of eroded trust in institutions, with potential economic repercussions for the public.

21 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 9min
What do we know about what's happening in Iran?
Greg Myrie, NPR's national security correspondent, delves into the ongoing protests in Iran, highlighting the staggering casualty numbers and the regime's communication blackouts. Franco Ordonez, NPR's White House correspondent, discusses President Trump's potential responses, balancing human rights rhetoric with the complexities of U.S. military action. They explore the vulnerabilities of Iran's leadership, the impact of regional defeats, and the scaled responses from Congress and exiled figures. The dynamics between protester protection and U.S. intervention shape a compelling narrative.

30 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 9min
How powerful is Stephen Miller?
Ashley Parker, a staff writer for The Atlantic, dives into the significant influence of Stephen Miller, one of President Trump's longest-serving aides. She discusses how Miller's impact spans across immigration, education, and foreign policy. Parker reveals Miller's intense ideologue style and how it shapes the administration's direction. She highlights his persuasive role with Trump and his unexpected sway in policy battles, especially during the latter part of the presidency, making Miller a pivotal figure in shaping key decisions.

19 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 10min
Reporting on the invasion of Venezuela
Eyder Peralta, an NPR international correspondent based in Mexico, delves into the complexities of reporting on Venezuela's crisis. He shares his challenging experiences in Colombia, discussing the obstacles journalists face, such as closed airspace and strict visa requirements. Eyder also highlights the protests against U.S. intervention and provides historical context, comparing it to past U.S. actions in Latin America. His insights reveal the careful risk-reward calculations reporters must make in volatile regions.

38 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 11min
Poll finds Americans concerned as Trump accelerates global intervention
Domenico Montanaro, NPR's Senior Political Editor, sheds light on a recent NPR-Ipsos poll revealing Americans' desire for moral leadership versus their doubts about U.S. credibility. Jackie Northam, Senior International Affairs Correspondent, discusses global reactions to U.S. actions in Venezuela and highlights allied concerns over America's reliability. They explore shifts in Republican foreign policy toward transactionalism and examine the implications for international alliances and U.S. influence moving forward.

20 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 9min
Is the Trump foreign policy back to the future?
Michael Froman, former U.S. Trade Representative and current president of the Council on Foreign Relations, dives into the echoes of 19th-century policies in Trump's presidency. He critiques U.S. military actions in Venezuela and discusses the erosion of the post-WWII rules-based order. Froman explores the tension between power and rules, linking Trump's transactional approach to strategic interests like oil. He highlights that contrary to isolationist views, Trump's second term reveals a more engaged international stance.

20 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 11min
An immigration crackdown gone wrong. What do we know?
Matt Sepik, a reporter for Minnesota Public Radio, provides critical on-the-ground insights into a controversial ICE shooting in Minneapolis. He discusses the conflicting narratives from local leaders and the federal government. Brian O'Hara, the Minneapolis Police Chief, offers preliminary details about the victim, urging caution before jumping to conclusions on self-defense. Both guests highlight the community's alarm over video evidence and critique the coordination and conduct of federal enforcement during the incident.

20 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 10min
What it's like inside a Darfur camp
In this insightful discussion, Bob Kitchen, Vice President of emergencies at the International Rescue Committee, shares harrowing details from his recent visit to Darfur. He highlights the staggering scale of displacement, revealing life in the overcrowded Toila camp. Bob addresses the health crises facing women, including childbirth risks and widespread sexual violence. He recounts a poignant story of a mother named Hope, while discussing the severe challenges of humanitarian access and recurring violence rooted in ongoing conflict.


