Deputy Managing Editor, and former White House editor, for Politico
Rachel Smolkin on KCRW
More from KCRW
Congress debates executive war powers after Trump decides to strike Iran
PoliticsIs it time to revisit Congress’ war powers authority? NATO makes a new commitment to defense spending. Plus, a democratic socialist could end up as NYC’s new mayor.
NPR Special Report: Trump 100 Days
PoliticsOn Wednesday, April 30th, NPR will mark the 100th day of the Trump Administration with a Special Report, hosted by Michel Martin.
‘Unconscionable:’ Local mayor blasts federal troops in LA
ImmigrationHuntington Park Mayor Arturo Flores talks about the immigration raids in his city and decries the use of the National Guard and U.S. Marines amid protests.
Israel’s military expansion in Gaza, Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra
InternationalIsrael’s cabinet approved plans that include “conquering the [Gaza] strip,” which would displace over a million Gazans. It could lead to long-term Israeli occupation of the territory.
Democrats fight Trump agenda, Russia seeds AI with misinfo
PoliticsHecklers at a recent town hall accused Congresswoman Laura Friedman of not fighting hard enough against the Trump administration. She says she understands the frustration.
First American pope, threats to funding for NPR stations
ReligionIn his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV – a 69-year-old Chicago native – shared a message of peace. He is the first American pope.
Congress defunds public media: How to help KCRW
PoliticsOnly July 17, Congress voted to rescind federal funding for public broadcasting. The bill is now headed to the President’s desk and will be signed into law very soon.
Why are Republicans so far apart on a new tax bill?
PoliticsCracks within the GOP turn the “Big, Beautiful Bill” into a mess. President Trump visits the Middle East. Plus, Democrats’ past and future collide.
In search of the secret animal highways beneath our roads
EnvironmentCaltrans is working to retrofit some of its highway underpasses to make it easier for wildlife to cross the road, benefiting biodiversity across the state.