5 Things

Devastating rains in Texas Hill County on the morning of July 4th created deadly floods that have now claimed over 100 lives and counting. The catastrophic rains took place in a region that's known as "flash flood alley," causing the Guadalupe River to rise from less than a foot on July 3 to more than 34 feet by the morning of July 4. Experts say that warming temperatures over land and especially in the Gulf are stoking extreme rainfall events across the United States, largely due to climate change. These super storms are also unleashing extreme fear in young people. It's called eco-anxiety. How can we maintain the mental health of young people in the midst of our worsening climate? Caroline Hickman, a psychologist who has been treating eco-anxiety for decades and sits on the board of the Climate Psychology Alliance, joins The Excerpt to share her insights into this growing psychological issue. Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes breaks down a part of the recent tax bill that adds new ships to the Coast Guard's fleet in the Northwest Passage, and the broader context in that region amid an ongoing cold war with China.President Donald Trump announces new tariffs - for copper, Brazil and more.Death tolls rise in the flooding disasters in Texas and New Mexico.Measles was eradicated in the United States 25 years ago. Cases this year have reached a new high.Tennessean Education Reporter Rachel Wegner looks at some of the ongoing divisions in American education 100 years after the Scopes trial.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a furious few weeks of debate, closed door negotiations, open floor debate and deal-making, the Republican-controlled legislature has finally passed a final version of President Donald Trump's budget priorities referred to by Republicans as “One Big Beautiful Bill.” It is likely going to be the most significant legislative accomplishment of Trump's second term. And as with most bills, this one has its winners and its losers. But make no mistake, it will impact every American one way or another. USA TODAY Senior Congress and Campaigns Reporter Riley Beggin joins The Excerpt to explain what's in the final bill. Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down the high court's move to lift a federal judge's order pausing the Trump administration's large-scale staffing cuts.The death toll continues to rise in the aftermath of Texas flooding. Plus, USA TODAY National Correspondent Dinah Voyles Pulver looks into the forecasting ahead of the storm and whether budget cuts played a role.The massive tax and spending bill is about to deal Harvard and other Ivy League schools a major blow.A Marco Rubio impersonator used AI voice to contact U.S. and foreign officials.Peter Jackson wants to help bring back an extinct New Zealand flightless bird.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Rick Jervis reports from Texas on what he's seen in the aftermath of devastating flooding. Plus, Rick reported on how warnings for the flash flooding came with little time to act. And flood survivor Chrissy Eliashar tells us her story.President Donald Trump announces tariff hikes on 14 countries.USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page takes a look back on the assassination attempt of President Donald Trump as we near its one-year anniversary.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Camp Mystic was "horrendously ravaged in ways unlike I've seen in any natural disaster."USA TODAY National Correspondent Dinah Voyles Pulver discusses how the NOAA budget spells out plans to reduce spending and abandon climate research, and the potential impact on hurricane forecasting.Elon Musk announces a new political party after slamming President Donald Trump's megabill.USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes talks about the preparations underway for the 250th birthday of the United States.Mexico beat the United States in the Gold Cup Final.Hear about a baseball player's dream moment in this month's installment of Kind Time, from Humankind.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It is the fodder of science fiction plots: implanting a device into the human brain... the blockbuster franchise “The Matrix” comes to mind. Here in the real world, though, it's actually happening. While tiny computers have been implanted into less than 100 brains so far, their impact has been life-changing. Brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs, have done everything from allowing increased mobility to helping with speech. Could these devices become more mainstream and help the disabled do even more in the future? Dr. Iahn Cajigas, a neurosurgeon at the University of Pennsylvania who has studied brain-computer interfaces and worked with patients using them, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to share his insights.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Kerr County Sheriff's Office in Texas said Friday flooding was catastrophic.President Donald Trump spoke with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise looks at the latest science around black holes.Chelsea and Fluminense advance in the FIFA Club World Cup.USA TODAY Books Reporter Clare Mulroy talks about some of the best comfort reads.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The House has sent Republicans' sweeping bill to President Donald Trump for his signature.The unemployment rate fell slightly in June. Plus, should you take a buyout?The Supreme Court will take up a major case on transgender athletes joining girls' teams.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise talks about the dangers of fireworks.USA TODAY Movie Critic Brian Truitt gives us his top 10 films of the year.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI chatbots are being used for mental health support — and it's raising red flags. From offering bad advice to encouraging self-harm, some mental health chatbots are crossing dangerous lines. Vaile Wright, senior director of health care innovation for the American Psychological Association, joins The Excerpt to talk about what's at stake—and how regulation could protect users.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The House has cleared a hurdle on President Donald Trump's bill of legislative priorities.USA TODAY National Correspondent Marco della Cava puts Diddy's trial in context after a verdict.A federal judge has blocked President Trump's asylum ban at the U.S.-Mexico border.Kilmar Abrego Garcia experienced "severe beatings" and "psychological torture" at a prison in El Salvador, according to a new court filing.USA TODAY Youth Mental Health Reporting Fellow Rachel Hale discusses why LGBTQ+ youth are twice as likely to be homeless.Clayton Kershaw joins the 3,000 strikeout club.The U.S. men's soccer team advances to the Gold Cup Final to play Mexico.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Walls. We all navigate them whether they be the walls throughout our homes, neighborhoods, and the places we choose to frequent, or the internal walls that allow us to maintain our distance from others. To what extent is divisiveness baked into our infrastructure, politic, and psyche? Anand Pandian, Professor of Anthropology at Johns Hopkins University, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to discuss his new book “Something Between Us.” In it, he explores the walls that divide us as a nation. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey gives some of his biggest takeaways after the Senate's passage of President Donald Trump's bill of legislative priorities.Paramount settles with Trump over a ‘60 Minutes' interview.The University of Pennsylvania has agreed to prohibit transgender athletes from competing in women's sports and strip the record of former swimmer Lia Thomas.A big summer of soccer rolls on.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Senate early this morning was still voting and negotiating on President Donald Trump's bill on tax cuts, Medicaid and more.USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe discusses the court's move to hear a GOP challenge to a campaign spending limit.The Justice Department sues Los Angeles to end 'sanctuary' immigration policies.Trump penned a handwritten note to Fed Chair Jerome Powell demanding lower interest rates.The man accused of killing four University of Idaho students in 2022 has accepted a plea deal in the case.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise tells us how some plastic bag bans appear to be working.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senators on Monday will vote on President Donald Trump's legislative priorities.USA TODAY Investigative Reporter Nick Penzenstadler discusses how mentally ill detained immigrants are being forced to fight in solitude.Canada rescinds its digital services tax amid newly stalled U.S. trade talks.A sniper in Idaho started a blaze and killed two responding firefighters in an ambush attack before being found dead hours later, authorities say.USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn tells us why some say there's a double standard around remote work.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

True crime is a cultural obsession. But beneath the gripping stories of ghastly crimes and elusive perpetrators are tough questions about ethics, representation and respect. Who gets to tell these stories? Whose voices are amplified and whose are left out? And how can creators avoid retraumatizing victims? Journalism professor and true crime author Kate Winkler Dawson joins The Excerpt to unpack where the genre goes wrong, how it can do better, and why responsible storytelling matters now more than ever.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe recaps the final day of the high court's term. We discuss decisions ranging from birthright citizenship to Obamacare, LGBTQ+ books in public schools and more.Undocumented immigrants face massive fines under a new Trump rule.President Donald Trump says the U.S. will end trade talks with Canada.California Gov. Gavin Newsom sues Fox News for defamation.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down the implications of the high court's decision siding with South Carolina in its effort to cut Planned Parenthood funding.President Donald Trump's passport policy was lifted. But some Americans are still in the dark.Protests pop up in Venice before the Jeff Bezos-Lauren Sánchez wedding. Why are people upset?USA TODAY National Correspondent Marco della Cava talks about the popularity of Formula One racing and a new Brad Pitt movie - F1 - in theaters today.(Trailer credit: Apple Original Films/Warner Bros. Pictures)Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1969, LGBTQ+ patrons at the Stonewall Inn fought back against a violent police raid — and sparked a global movement. More than 50 years later, the fight continues. Under President Donald Trump's second term, the National Park Service quietly removed “transgender” and “T” and “Q” from the Stonewall National Monument website. USA TODAY National Correspondent Michael Collins joins The Excerpt to share his reporting on Stonewall veterans who fear history is being rewritten.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iranian officials are expected to meet with U.S. officials next week. Plus, NATO leaders back a big increase in defense spending.USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey discusses what Zohran Mamdani's win in New York City means for Democrats and the GOP.Feds wasted millions on tech to detect fentanyl at the border, according to a federal watchdog.USA TODAY Books Reporter Clare Mulroy breaks down the Trump administration's impact on how we read.Check out last night's NBA Draft picks.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Climate change, global warming – we've all heard the steady drumbeat of doom. But a recent five-year forecast, by the World Meteorological Organization and the U.K. Meteorological Office, puts it starkly: The world will likely soon break another annual temperature record and, according to the Associated Press, the heat will be deadly. What would happen if we embraced the idea that the future still rests firmly in our hands? Is it in our nature to learn, adapt and change? And, equally important, is there still time? Author and climate scientist Kate Marvel dives into those questions in her new book “Human Nature,” on bookshelves now. She joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to share her perspective.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

U.S. strikes failed to destroy Iran's nuclear sites. Plus, USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield looks back on the last 70 years of history between the U.S. and Iran.Zohran Mamdani wins a New York City primary for mayor, shaking up mainstream Democratic politics.America's housing is pulling further out of reach, according to a new report.USA TODAY Consumer Travel Reporter Zach Wichter talks about supersonic air travel and its past and present in this week's Cruising Altitude column.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Israel says Iran has violated a ceasefire. Plus, USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers breaks down how Middle East tensions will impact this week's NATO summit.The Supreme Court lifts a judge's limits on deportations to third-party countries.A judge blocks President Trump's plan to to bar foreign nationals from entering the U.S. to study at Harvard University.New York City Democrats head to the polls to vote in citywide elections that will determine their party's nominee for mayor.USA TODAY National Correspondent Dinah Voyles Pulver breaks down the potential impact of proposed massive cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In May, President Donald Trump shared his vision for protecting the US from the threat of nuclear strikes by drones, and ballistic, cruise and hypersonic missiles. The idea? A Golden Dome which would cover the country with three layers of air defenses. Following the launch of missiles in Iran, the idea of having a robust defense system here at home is getting more attention. Tom Karako, Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic & International Studies, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to share his insight on missile defense and nuclear deterrence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page takes a broader look at President Donald Trump's decision to order weekend strikes on nuclear targets in Iran. Plus, an Iranian spokesperson calls Trump a 'gambler.' And Trump floats the idea of regime change.The strikes could hit the U.S. economy at a fragile time.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise tells us about killer bees.The Oklahoma City Thunder are NBA champions.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A slew of new music documentaries recently debuted at this year's Tribeca Film Festival. The list of cultural icons with docs just released or coming soon is long – from Billy Joel to Miley Cyrus to Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder. Beyond incredible sound, what were some of the stories captured in these docs? And what will audiences see and hear as they follow documentary filmmakers in their quest to go behind the music? USA TODAY National Music Reporter Melissa Ruggieri joins The Excerpt to share insights from some of the biggest music documentaries fans can seek out this year. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

European foreign ministers are working to establish a path to diplomacy in Geneva.Lawmakers propose prohibiting masked agents. Plus, pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil has been released. And USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes discusses how the Trump administration is doubling down on immigration enforcement.President Trump is calling for a special prosecutor to investigate his false 2020 election claims.Millions of Americans will feel a heat wave this weekend. Find out where.USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn tells us how some fear anti-DEI fervor could drive openly gay, trans and nonbinary executives back into hiding.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Donald Trump will decide on the U.S. role in the Israel-Iran conflict within two weeks.USA TODAY White House Reporter Davis Winkie discusses how the Trump administration's National Guard immigration enforcement could divide states. Plus, a court lets Trump keep control of California's National Guard for now.The Los Angeles Dodgers say they denied federal agents access to Dodger Stadium parking lots.Trump signs an executive order delaying a ban on TikTok - again.USA TODAY National Correspondent Marco della Cava looks back on the phenomenon that was 'Jaws' on its 50th anniversary. Plus, how locals made up much of the film's cast.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are high school graduates better off picking up a welding torch instead of a college textbook? As demand grows for skilled labor, more students—and their parents—are questioning whether the traditional college-for-all model still makes sense. Is it time to stop treating college as the default path? Steve Klein, a researcher at Education Northwest, talks to The Excerpt about the benefits and biases around trade careers, the reality of financial independence without a four-year degree, and how schools can better prepare students for the future.Read more: https://tinyurl.com/492enhtk See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Donald Trump is weighing U.S. actions amid Israel and Iran's ongoing strikes. Plus, MAGA infighting grows on the issue. And there are risks for Trump of 'regime change' in Iran: Just ask George W. Bush.USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down the high court's move to uphold Tennessee's ban on transgender minors using puberty blockers and hormone therapy.The Social Security crisis is coming a year earlier than we thought.Karen Read has been acquitted of murder in the death of her police officer boyfriend.The FDA approves a new twice-yearly HIV shot.USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey discusses the importance of Juneteenth and how some communities are marking the day.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. Every one of their stories is different and the broad strokes coverage you often hear can't possibly touch on everyone's reality. So Alix Dick and Antero Garcia decided to focus on the story of just one undocumented person - Alix herself. Their new book “The Cost of Being Undocumented: One Woman's Reckoning with America's Inhumane Math“ is on bookshelves now. Co-authors Alix Dick and Antero Garcia join The Excerpt to share their journey of discovery of what it means to be undocumented.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon has shifted warplanes and an aircraft carrier to the Middle East. Plus, President Donald Trump threatens Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on social media. And Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Tucker Carlson urge Trump to stay out of Iran, exposing a MAGA rift.USA TODAY National Correspondent Will Carless discusses how as ‘lone actor' attacks rise, Trump is dismantling the program aimed at spotting them.A poll finds the majority of Americans oppose Trump's tax bill.USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page breaks down what some recent primaries can tell us ahead of midterms next year.The Florida Panthers are Stanley Cup champions again.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers breaks down President Donald Trump's decision to abruptly leave the Group of Seven summit.Multiple lawmakers push to curb Trump's war powers on Iran.A federal prosecutor said Monday that the man accused of shooting two Minnesota lawmakers went to the homes of two other state officials the morning he launched a targeted "political assassination."USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield discusses the trickle-down effect of Trump's NIH budget cuts.Trump Organization launches a new mobile cell service.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're putting the spotlight on dads today, asking readers to share about why it's so important to honor our fathers or paternal figures in our lives. Forum is a series from USA TODAY's Opinion team, dedicated to showcasing views from across the political spectrum on issues that Americans are starkly divided on. If you'd like to weigh in on a different topic, you can find more questions at usatoday.com/forum. And if your submission is selected for print, we might invite you to add your voice to a future special bonus episode like this one.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A suspect has been arrested in the fatal shooting of Minnesota lawmakers over the weekend.Iranian missiles struck Tel Aviv and Haifa before dawn on Monday.'No Kings' organizers say protests drew large crowds. How large?USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz discusses what some economists are saying about the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.USA TODAY National Correspondent Deborah Barfield Berry tells us how families are reflecting on the Charleston church massacre a decade later.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the high-stakes world of cryptocurrency, cybercrime is no longer the only concern for investors. A rise in street crime tactics means that some wealthy crypto owners have fallen prey to physical attacks and coercion. You may have seen a recent headline regarding a crypto owner who was kidnapped and tortured in a Manhattan townhouse by criminals who were attempting to steal his bitcoin. These brazen physical attacks have come to be known as “wrench attacks.” How can crypto investors protect themselves, and their stash, from both cybercrime and violent crime? Nick Neuman, CEO of Casa, a cryptocurrency company that specializes in providing security solutions for digital assets, joins The Excerpt to share his insights.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iran has launched waves of missiles at Israel in response to recent airstrikes.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen has the latest on Kilmar Abrego Garcia's legal situation.The Army marks its 250th anniversary Saturday with a parade and festival. Most Americans think the military parade is 'not a good use' of money.A judge blocks the State Department's planned mass layoffs.President Donald Trump reports more than $600 million in income.USA TODAY Sports Reporter Tom Schad tell us how the presence of ICE and CBP at this month's FIFA Club World Cup games is raising concerns, despite being a normal practice.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Israel has launched strikes against Iran targeting its nuclear program.An appeals court blocks the ruling directing President Donald Trump to return control of the National Guard to California.USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook discusses what he learned in an exclusive talk with Army Secretary Dan Driscoll about Saturday's $40 million military parade.15,000 foreigners sign up to pay $5 million for U.S. residency and a path to citizenship. Plus, the Department of Homeland Security ends temporary protections for 530,000 immigrants.USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire tells us governors aren't on the same page about using the National Guard for protests.A miracle in seat 11A? The apparent sole survivor of Air India 171 walked away from the wreckage.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's been a busy few months in the world of federal pardons. It started on day one of the Trump administration with more than 1500 people pardoned for their roles in the January 6th Capital riot. And the pardons just keep coming. The past few weeks we've seen a spate of controversial clemency grants, including a couple of reality TV stars who were found guilty of defrauding community banks out of tens of millions of dollars, a former nursing home executive whose mother recently attended a 1-million-a-plate fundraiser, and a Virginia sheriff convicted of bribery in what prosecutors called a “cash-for-badges scheme.” The pardons are all legal, but do the optics possibly show a two-tiered system of justice? Former U.S. Pardon Attorney Liz Oyer joins The Excerpt to talk about the stringent rules that most pardon attorneys follow when evaluating clemency requests and why some of Trump's pardons are so troubling.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen tells us how three Democratic governors today will push back against federal immigration enforcement actions during a House hearing.President Donald Trump and Chinese officials announced they have agreed to a framework for a trade deal.USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire explains what to expect during "No Kings" Day protests this weekend. They'll be held the same day as President Trump's military parade.Harvey Weinstein has been convicted on a sex-crimes charge and acquitted on another in a retrial.Brian Wilson dies at 82.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The story of the American alligator is one of survival. From 1967 to 1987, they were officially listed as an endangered species. But the wetlands of Louisiana, Florida's Everglades National Park and many other southern habitats are now teeming with roughly five million alligators. And their story continues to evolve. Recent studies suggest alligators shape how carbon is stored in soil. Could alligators be an unexpected ally in the fight against climate change? Christopher Murray, Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Southeastern Louisiana University, joins The Excerpt to share insights from his recent study published in Nature. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes joins us again from Los Angeles as protests also spread to other cities.USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook discusses President Donald Trump's push for 20,000 troops to help his immigration crackdown.Trump says he's restoring the names of military bases that honored Confederate soldiers.Water from the faucets of at least 42 million Americans is contaminated with unacceptable levels of “forever chemicals."Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

700 Marines have been deployed to Los Angeles. But California has sued the Trump administration to block deployment of the National Guard and the Marines. Plus, USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes reports from on the ground in Southern California.Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has fired all of a committee that advises the federal government on vaccine safety.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison discusses what's next for DOGE after the departure of Elon Musk and the recent collapse of the Trump-Musk alliance.Swedish activist Greta Thunberg has been deported from Israel after the Israeli navy prevented her and a group of fellow pro-Palestinian activists from sailing to Gaza.Funk pioneer Sly Stone has died at 82.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Under President Donald Trump's second administration, LGBTQ+ rights are back in the spotlight as he issues executive orders banning transgender military servicemembers and rescinding funding from educational institutions that allow trans athletes to compete in sports. So far in 2025, more than 500 bills targeting the LGBTQ+ community have been introduced across America.As Pride Month 2025 gets underway across the country (albeit with fewer corporate sponsors), we asked what pride means to you – not just the parades, protests and community, but also your feelings, fears and hopes – and whether it can continue to exist in its current form. Here's what you told us.Forum is a series from USA TODAY's Opinion team that is dedicated to showcasing views from across the political spectrum on issues that Americans are starkly divided on. If you'd like to weigh in on a different topic, you can find more questions at usatoday.com/forum. And if your submission is selected for print, we might invite you to add your voice to a future special bonus episode like this one. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tensions escalated in Los Angeles late Sunday between law enforcement and protesters as California National Guard troops arrived.USA TODAY National Immigration and Border Reporter Lauren Villagran takes a look at Trump's 'invasion' claims.Proud Boys who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6 sue the government for $100 million.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen discusses disputes among Republicans about parts of Trump's major tax bill.Cole Escola makes nonbinary history at the Tony Awards.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Arthur's vows to Jim Obergefell came during a unique wedding ceremony that changed the course of American history. It was 2013 and at the time, Arthur was dying of ALS. Due to the generosity of friends and family the couple were able to exchange vows from within a medical plane parked in Maryland, where gay marriage was legal. Obergefell and Arthur's fight to get their marriage recognized by their home state of Ohio went all the way to the Supreme Court, ultimately paving the way for nationwide marriage equality for same-sex couples 10 years ago. John, tragically, passed before the ruling, but the couple's story endures as a milestone for the LGBTQ+ community. Jim Obergefell joins The Excerpt to share more about his historic journey.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been returned to the U.S. He now faces human trafficking charges.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy discusses some of the concerns from LGBTQ+ advocates this Pride Month over Trump administration actions.The Supreme Court blocks the disclosure of DOGE operations. Plus, the court lets DOGE access Social Security data.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers talks about new Trump executive orders centered on flying cars and high speed air travel.Nonalcoholic beer is on track to become the world's second-largest beer category.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer has the latest on the feud between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump. Plus, Josh takes a look at how the feud might end.Here's what you need to know about this week's travel ban.The Department of Homeland Security is ending its Quiet Skies surveillance program.The Supreme Court sides with a straight woman in a 'reverse discrimination' case.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise tells us about invasive Asian needle ants.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2025 NATO summit will be held in The Hague later this month. Among the topics of discussion will be defense spending, strengthening the alliance, support for Ukraine and bolstering defense capabilities. With the summit fast approaching, how might European powers fill the leadership and aid vacuum left by the U.S. as the Trump administration's appetite for foreign conflict dissipates? Max Boot, senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins The Excerpt to talk through all the issues on the table.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USA TODAY Senior Congress Reporter Riley Beggin has the latest after Elon Musk launched an attack on President Donald Trump's sweeping tax and policy bill.A new analysis finds nearly 11 million Americans would lose insurance under Trump's tax bill.Trump bans travel from twelve nations.The Education Department says Columbia University fails to meet accreditation standards.Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed retaliation against Ukraine during a call Wednesday.USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise tells us how a recent Ukraine drone attack shows familiar-looking drones can be terrifying weapons.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With AI tools like ChatGPT becoming ubiquitous on college campuses, students and educators alike are navigating a rapidly shifting academic landscape. Beth McMurtrie, a senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, joins The Excerpt to talk about how students are using AI—from brainstorming and revising to outright cheating—and the ethical dilemmas that follow.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode Transcript available hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.