The Daily

The Democratic debate in Nevada was charged with personal attacks and open hostility, setting a fierce tone for the race. Candidates are increasingly pushing back against controversial policies, especially regarding policing and allegations of misconduct. The spotlight is on Michael Bloomberg as opponents challenge his non-disclosure agreements tied to harassment claims. Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders is gaining ground, intensifying the urgency among candidates as they prepare for the pivotal Nevada caucuses.

Gabriel J.X. Dance, Investigations editor at The New York Times, and Michael H. Keller, investigative reporter, delve into the chilling realities of online child sexual abuse imagery. They discuss the tech industry's failure to effectively tackle this issue, even as statistics reveal a disturbing 50% increase in such content. Personal stories from victims' families highlight the ongoing trauma and the emotional toll of abuse and exploitation. The guests emphasize the urgent need for accountability from major tech companies to protect vulnerable individuals.

Michael H. Keller and Gabriel J.X. Dance, investigative journalists for The New York Times, delve into the dark digital underworld of child sexual abuse imagery. They reveal shocking statistics, including over 60 million reported cases last year, and highlight the alarming inadequacies of tech companies and lawmakers in addressing this crisis. The duo discusses the challenges faced by law enforcement, including funding shortages and the emotional toll of their work. Their investigative findings raise hard questions about accountability and the urgent need for reform in child protection legislation.

Alex Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, brings insight into Michael Bloomberg's unexpected rise in the Democratic presidential race. They discuss Bloomberg’s significant wealth and how it has facilitated a powerful political network. The conversation delves into the controversies surrounding his past, including stop and frisk policies, while examining his philanthropic efforts, especially in gun control. As former critics endorse him, Bloomberg's influence raises important questions about the intersection of money and politics in modern campaigns.

Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, offers sharp insights into President Trump's post-acquittal strategy of retribution and favoritism. He delves into the fallout from impeachment, highlighting the consequences for key witnesses and the president's disdain for disloyalty. The discussion also touches on the enigmatic Roger Stone, his controversial influence during the 2016 election, and the ethical dilemmas raised by Trump's intervention in legal matters. It's a compelling exploration of loyalty and power within a turbulent political landscape.

In this captivating discussion, Amy Qin, a China correspondent for The New York Times, shares her firsthand experiences reporting from Wuhan during the coronavirus outbreak. She vividly describes the haunting lockdown atmosphere and the emotional struggle of families facing loss. The podcast dives into the public outcry over the death of whistleblower Dr. Li Wenliang, calling into question government transparency amidst the crisis. Qin explores how the authoritarian regime's failures stoked widespread anger and the urgent need for freedom of speech.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the implications of Bernie Sanders' win in the New Hampshire primary. He analyzes how Sanders has solidified his grip on the party's liberal wing while moderates like Pete Buttigieg and Amy Klobuchar show strength. The conversation highlights the significance of coalition-building in a fractured field, examines the impact of candidate identity on voter appeal, and reflects on the emotional connections voters form with their chosen candidates.

Lisa Lerer, a seasoned New York Times reporter on campaigns and elections, shares her insights on the evolving political landscape ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Following the chaos in Iowa, she discusses the fragmentation within the Democratic field, especially among moderate candidates. Voter sentiments reveal a mix of excitement and skepticism, particularly regarding Bernie Sanders' impact. Lerer also sheds light on the rising tensions between Sanders and Buttigieg, exploring how the dynamics could shape the party's future direction.

Kashmir Hill, a tech reporter for The New York Times, dives into the contentious world of facial recognition technology. She discusses a start-up, Clearview AI, that has amassed a staggering database of over three billion images. Hill unpacks the ethical dilemmas this poses, especially regarding privacy and law enforcement use. Key questions about transparency, corporate ethics, and the implications for personal freedom are explored, painting a vivid picture of a future where privacy might be significantly compromised.

In this engaging discussion, Donna Rotunno, lead defense lawyer for Harvey Weinstein and specialist in defending men accused of sex crimes, shares her insights with Megan Twohey, the investigative reporter who helped expose Weinstein’s alleged abuses. They delve into the intricacies of the legal strategies employed in the trial, the challenges of navigating consent, and the broader implications of the Me Too movement on due process. Rotunno highlights the psychological toll on both the accusers and those accused, providing a complex view of a profoundly impactful case.