The Christian Science Monitor Daily Podcast

For former President Bill Clinton, who left office 25 years ago, the impact of the Epstein scandal may only further damage his image, particularly among younger Democrats, amid changing mores around sexual misconduct by powerful men. Also: today's stories, including, how in Boston, a Monitor reporter set off to find out what cities do with an abundance of snow; how India has increasingly used cricket as an extension of its foreign policy with Pakistan; and how a contributing writer finds respite in his postcard pastime despite living in a digital world. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

President Donald Trump has issued executive orders on voting, and his administration is suing states that have refused to turn over voter rolls. Congress has taken up legislation that would require proof of citizenship for voter registration. Last month, the FBI raided an election center in Georgia as part of a criminal investigation into the 2020 election. Also: today's stories, including how students in Iran have courageously protested for days despite leadership claims; how in a politically red Texas, Democrats have hope in the upcoming primaries; and how the misconduct investigation into the former Prince Andrew is putting the British monarchy under a harsh glare. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

President Donald Trump's brief mention of Iran in his State of the Union address was still short of a complete argument for how and why striking Iran, which would risk a wider Middle East conflict, would further U.S. interests. Also: today's stories, including how U.S. President Donald Trump's new retirement plan builds on a bipartisan model; what Trump's view of U.S. military power could mean for Iran-US talks; and how some prominent U.S. universities are paring back campus spending in response to endowment tax hikes. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

The United States has amassed the largest force since the war in Iraq. Iran threatens an all-out response to any attack, even if limited. As they prepare for nuclear diplomacy in Geneva to avoid conflict, each side appears to be misreading the other. Also: today's stories, including how as the world fights over Greenland, its people double down on their own values; a look at space-based data centers; and how mobile libraries are upending the belief among many Pakistanis that reading is a pastime reserved for the elite. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

President Donald Trump tried to respond boldly with new tariffs to counter a Supreme Court ruling that went against him. But the White House's economic calculus is in flux as global leaders reconsider trade deals. Also: today's stories, including how violence that often follows the takedown of a drug cartel leader is a public reminder that peace might not be imminent; how some economists see income taxes as a drag on productivity; and how one Monitor reporter fell in love with the roses in the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

President Donald Trump tried to respond boldly with new tariffs to counter a Supreme Court ruling that went against him. But the White House's economic calculus is in flux as global leaders reconsider trade deals. Also: today's stories, including how violence that often follows the takedown of a drug cartel leader is a public reminder that peace might not be imminent; how some economists see income taxes as a drag on productivity; and how one Monitor reporter fell in love with the roses in the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

The hostages, living and dead, are home, yet the war in Gaza is unfinished business for Israelis. As the country pivots toward election-year politics, how is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's refusal to authorize an independent state inquiry into Oct. 7 playing? Also: today's stories, including why the Supreme Court struck down the Trump administration's use of an emergency economic law to set broad tariffs; how schools that support undergraduates' basic needs are reporting better retention and achievement rates; and our reviewers' favorite books of February. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Artificial intelligence is developing so rapidly that some industry insiders fear safety concerns aren't getting enough attention. That's sparking conversation about how to balance innovation, competition, and safeguards. Also: today's stories, including how recent internet blackouts in Iran, Uganda, and beyond highlight a new front emerging in conflicts around the world; how missing the Winter Olympics podium can be the motivation athletes need to do better next time; and how a great “de-risking” is underway among some of the oldest allies of the United States, writes our columnist. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

President Donald Trump's Board of Peace is convening amid doubts about this approach to diplomacy. Muslim and Arab countries, hoping to influence Gaza's path forward, have signed on. Western democracies, wary of further weakening international institutions, are staying away. Also: today's stories, including how refugees in Minnesota are challenging the Trump administration; a look at some Democratic U.S. governors emerging as top contenders for their party's 2028 presidential nomination; and how India wants to shape the AI era – not just service it. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Ukraine and Russia may be at the negotiating table, but for the Ukrainian public, the idea of giving up territory for peace is still anathema. What would make Ukrainians consider such concessions? Guarantees of security against future Russian aggression. Also: today's stories, including how yellow cement blocks demarcating Israeli-held territory in Gaza are making Palestinians feel trapped; how women Olympians are making their mark in the Winter Games at ages well past what is considered the prime for elite athletes; and how support for tribal members has surged among residents of the Twin Cities. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

Recent votes on tariffs and blunt public criticisms signal a GOP that's more willing to defy President Donald Trump – and worried about this fall's midterm elections. Also: today's stories, including a look at community ski hills in New Hampshire; how British politicians are finding no place to hide in the wake of the Epstein files; and why Democrats are pressing for immigration enforcement reform as a Department of Homeland Security shutdown nears. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

As U.S. and European security officials gather for key meetings this week, leaders are taking steps to navigate shifts in the traditional transatlantic alliance. Also: today's stories, including: why the Trump administration is rescinding a rule that enables the EPA to regulate greenhouse gases; how a Portuguese election hints at the potential limits of U.S. President Donald Trump's brand of far-right populism in Europe; and a look at the International Olympic Committee's decision to ban a Ukrainian Olympian trying to honor those who had lost their lives at home during the Winter Games. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The release of documents surrounding sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has stirred massive media attention, but it remains unclear if prosecutions will result. Instead of the files providing clarity, one result so far is a frenzy of speculation and conspiracy theories. Also: today's stories, including why a positive January jobs report leaves economists uncertain; why women are notably absent from this week's ballots in Bangladesh; and the importance of this year's location for the Winter Olympics. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

As Iran urges attendance at rallies Wednesday marking the anniversary of the revolution, many citizens could not be further estranged. On one side are grieving families and others infuriated by the regime's brutality, and on the other, officials who voice no expressions of regret. Also: today's stories, including how upcoming elections offer a chance for a democratic reset in Bangladesh; how AI-generated music, writing, and images are generating questions about the nature and source of creativity itself; and how joy was the point for skiers flying through the air at the Livigno Snow Park on Tuesday afternoon. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

The SAVE Act would require Americans to prove citizenship before voting in federal elections, and Republicans are eyeing a new strategy to advance it. Opponents say it would disenfranchise millions. Also: today's stories, including how some Olympic athletes want to preserve artistry in the quest for “faster, higher, stronger” maneuvers; whether Brazil's leftist leader can stay on Donald Trump's good side; and how thousands of dogs and people convened in Colorado for the “world's largest unofficial gathering” of golden retrievers. Join the Monitor's Story Hinckley for today's news.

The SAVE Act would require Americans to prove citizenship before voting in federal elections, and Republicans are eyeing a new strategy to advance it. Opponents say it would disenfranchise millions. Also: today's stories, including how some Olympic athletes want to preserve artistry in the quest for “faster, higher, stronger” maneuvers; whether Brazil's leftist leader can stay on Donald Trump's good side; and how thousands of dogs and people convened in Colorado for the “world's largest unofficial gathering” of golden retrievers. Join the Monitor's Story Hinckley for today's news.

Prediction markets, where people can bet on outcomes of real-world events, often forecast better than traditional polls. But the evolving markets also raise concerns about cheating and corrosion of trust. Also: today's stories, including why Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and her party are expected to sweep in Japan's upcoming election, what one Monitor correspondent recalls from past Winter Olympics coverage, and why USPS chose poet Phillis Wheatley for the latest stamp in its Black Heritage series. Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

U.S.-Iran talks set for Friday were briefly canceled, then revived, at the urging of Arab governments. But the two adversaries' preferred agendas are very different. Amid reciprocal threats, does each side have a realistic grasp of what is at stake? Also: today's stories, including how pricey offerings aimed at the wealthy have changed football fans' stadium experiences; how the International Olympic Committee is testing an affordable approach for host cities; and our film critic's take on the Cannes favorite, “The President's Cake.” Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

U.S.-Iran talks set for Friday were briefly canceled, then revived, at the urging of Arab governments. But the two adversaries' preferred agendas are very different. Amid reciprocal threats, does each side have a realistic grasp of what is at stake? Also: today's stories, including how pricey offerings aimed at the wealthy have changed football fans' stadium experiences; how the International Olympic Committee is testing an affordable approach for host cities; and our film critic's take on the Cannes favorite, “The President's Cake.” Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

Reforms following Watergate strengthened the Justice Department's independence and restored public confidence. Now, amid the Trump administration's pressure on DOJ norms, polls show that half of Americans doubt that federal law enforcement is fair and impartial. Also: today's stories, including why a Reagan-appointed judge resigned over actions by the Trump Administration, why the United States needs to replenish its weapons stockpile, and what role India could play in the emerging global order. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

After more than a decade of economic crisis and authoritarian rule in Venezuela, President Donald Trump and Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez are banking on oil for the success of their political futures. But that may not be enough for Venezuelans who want more than just economic relief. Also: today's stories, including how Republicans are pushing back as Democrats target Department of Homeland Security funding; how Russian forces have been advancing in Ukraine; and how bipartisan opposition to massive data centers is playing out in Wisconsin. Join the Monitor's Scott Baldauf for today's news.

After more than a decade of economic crisis and authoritarian rule in Venezuela, President Donald Trump and Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez are banking on oil for the success of their political futures. But that may not be enough for Venezuelans who want more than just economic relief. Also: today's stories, including how Republicans are pushing back as Democrats target Department of Homeland Security funding; how Russian forces have been advancing in Ukraine; and how bipartisan opposition to massive data centers is playing out in Wisconsin. Join the Monitor's Scott Baldauf for today's news.

In cases that haven't gotten a national spotlight, U.S. citizens and legal residents say they've been injured by federal immigration enforcement personnel. Their lawyers say these cases are part of a rise in the use of excessive force, tied to the administration's efforts to detain and deport unauthorized immigrants. Also: today's stories, including how one bridge challenges President Donald Trump's view that Canada is freeloading; and how schoolchildren may see food and fitness change through the “Make America Healthy Again” movement; how in at least one part of the city, Cape Town's gangs face a formidable foe: the neighborhood “aunties.” Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

President Donald Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh to head the Federal Reserve calmed markets, but the former member of the board of governors could also set the Fed on a new course. Also: today's stories, including how an electoral victory in Myanmar offers hope to some for the restoration of democratic norms; a theme of resistance from 1960s Mississippi to 2020s Minnesota civil rights protest history, as examined by our cultural commentator; and one essayist's take that winter has much more to offer than snow and slush. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

President Donald Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh to head the Federal Reserve calmed markets, but the former member of the board of governors could also set the Fed on a new course. Also: today's stories, including how an electoral victory in Myanmar offers hope to some for the restoration of democratic norms; a theme of resistance from 1960s Mississippi to 2020s Minnesota civil rights protest history, as examined by our cultural commentator; and one essayist's take that winter has much more to offer than snow and slush. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Amassing military forces and bolstered by Iran's perceived vulnerability, President Donald Trump says “time is running out.” Replying with threats of its own, the Islamic Republic is trying to restore its deterrence and survive what it realizes is an existential challenge. Also: today's stories, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's appearance at the Monitor Breakfast; how members of the public and lawmakers are investigating use of force by local and federal law enforcement in the U.S.; and whether President Donald Trump's energy policy cedes the future of energy production to China Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

The seizure of Nicolás Maduro has encouraged Venezuelans, especially in terms of economic growth, but they are unsure what it means for the state of democracy in the South American nation. Also: today's stories, including how the U.S.' National Defense Strategy is pledging “more limited” U.S. support to friendly nations and deterring China “through strength, not confrontation”; how, for a group of young musicians in the Republic of Congo, their orchestra is a cherished opportunity of a lifetime; and our immigration reporter offers more information about the roles various federal agencies play in immigration enforcement. Join the Monitor's Victoria Hoffmann for today's news.

Alex Pretti was a lawful gun owner, and not brandishing his weapon, when he was disarmed and then fatally shot by federal agents. The resulting controversy focuses on an incident that appears to contradict decades of conservatives' efforts to legitimize public gun carry. Also: today's stories, including how despite billions in foreign aid to Haiti, life for most Haitians hasn't improved; how many in Pakistan worry the government has made a Faustian pact by joining Trump's “Board of Peace"; and how Democrats now say securing Department of Homeland Security reforms is worth the price of a government shutdown. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Videos of incidents like the recent Minneapolis shootings can be ambiguous, but they can also help determine the narrative most people believe. In the Alex Pretti case, the Trump administration's description of what happened conflicted with what people saw from witness recordings. Also: today's stories, including how, despite Beijing's campaign to encourage women to have more children, new data shows China's population decline is accelerating; how populism can awaken a nation to concerns ignored by elites, but also unravel institutions; and how, in novelist Val McDermid's newest book, winter comforts offer a respite from Scotland's short days and long nights. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

After a lightning military advance in Kurdish-held northeastern Syria, Damascus is demanding that the Kurdish-led SDF, a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIS, agree to integrate into the national army. The United States has thrown its support behind a unified Syria. Also: today's stories, including why the Pentagon is changing Stars and Stripes' independent status, one man's journey from a poor Russian village boy to custodian of state secrets, and our essayist's advice for when the world's worries threaten to weigh you down. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Former special counsel Jack Smith's efforts to prosecute Donald Trump for trying to overturn the 2020 election results ended more than a year ago. But political partisanship around the issue remains strong – and was on display as Mr. Smith made his first public comments on the case during a House hearing. Also: today's stories, including a look at how some voters now disapprove of President Trump's handling of immigration, why winter has been an added hardship for displaced Palestinians, and how the dispute over Greenland generated mistrust between Washington and its European allies. Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

Money matters have driven foreign policy throughout history. But President Donald Trump's oil moves in Venezuela may hint at a new era of unapologetic grabs for economic power, causing growing resentment – even among allies. Also: today's stories, including why SCOTUS is skeptical of President Trump's attempt to remove a member of the Federal Reserve Board, why China is raising its retirement age for the first time in 70 years, and a look at how The Patriotic Citizen Initiatives shelter gives male migrants in Nigeria. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

With President Donald Trump adamant that the U.S. must acquire Greenland, Europe is at a crossroads. The economic tools it has to dissuade Mr. Trump are strong, but slow to roll out. And if Europe does push back, it risks injuring itself, too. Also: today's stories, including how five Central Asian nations that all rely on water from regional glaciers appear set to move past bickering and instead share a negotiated usage; how the Trump administration's cuts and changes to the federal workforce have forced groups to reckon with new norms for outstanding public service; and how Mr. Trump's focus on Greenland has shaken the NATO alliance and put the entire world on notice. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

A brutal Iranian crackdown has appeared to quash most protests, and officials are seeking to portray a sense of “national solidarity.” But images and eyewitness accounts of shocking “atrocities” are accumulating that paint a different picture. Also: today's stories, including a look at how U.S. President Donald Trump may respond to protests in Iran; how Ukrainian citizens are being put to the test by Russian air attacks against energy infrastructure; and our review of the Dolly Parton biography, “Ain't Nobody's Fool.” Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Some businesses in Minneapolis and other cities are refusing entry to federal immigration officers, reflecting local dissatisfaction with the Trump administration's deportation campaign as tensions continue to escalate. Also: today's stories, including how the formation of the apolitical Palestinian committee was greeted with skepticism and hope in Gaza; how Europe and the U.S. are handling AI chatbot Grok's “deepfake” images of women and children differently; and how historic protests in Iran are showing more parallels with another uprising nearly 50 years ago. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The United States has attempted to annex Greenland several times in the past. But it also has a history of cooperation with Denmark on Greenland's security – so much so that it's dubious that direct control would be better for U.S. defense. Also: today's stories, including how young voters in Uganda must decide between a 40-something former pop star and a sitting president in his 80s; how a spat over Yemen has spiraled into what is being called a diplomatic “divorce” between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia; and how the presence of Cuban nationals in Venezuela shows Cuba's soft power in Venezuela and elsewhere. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

There's a difference between constitutionally protected free speech and acts of civil disobedience that could lead to arrests. Still, it's not clear that Renee Good in Minneapolis was interfering illegally with ICE operations. And civil disobedience isn't terrorism under traditional definitions. Also: today's stories, including how the Trump White House wants to make sure Smithsonian museum exhibits conform to its ideology; how efforts to diversify rare earth supply chains are bringing new attention to war-ravaged Myanmar; and how since the start of the war in Ukraine and Western sanctions, getting from Russia to the rest of Europe has become a frustration. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

The Federal Reserve's independence from partisan politics is a cornerstone of U.S. economic stability and market confidence. A Justice Department criminal probe of Fed Chair Jerome Powell may signal new risk to this principle. Also: today's stories, including how AI is steadily becoming a greater part of people's daily lives, how Central American politicians are offering fewer freedoms to win more votes, and one Monitor writer's selection of recently released art books. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

The Federal Reserve's independence from partisan politics is a cornerstone of U.S. economic stability and market confidence. A Justice Department criminal probe of Fed Chair Jerome Powell may signal new risk to this principle. Also: today's stories, including how AI is steadily becoming a greater part of people's daily lives, how Central American politicians are offering fewer freedoms to win more votes, and one Monitor writer's selection of recently released art books. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

President Donald Trump's withdrawal from dozens of global organizations – many focused on climate issues and human rights – was swiftly condemned by U.S. allies. One power that increasingly has stepped into the leadership breach is China. Also: today's stories, including a look at two Supreme Court cases involving whether the Constitution's guarantee of equal protection under the law extends to transgender people competing in single-sex sports; how more women are emerging into leadership roles in Latino Christian churches; and the rise of women's sports in England. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

The killing of a protester by an ICE agent in Minneapolis has reignited debates over the appropriate use of force in immigration raids. Also in today's stories: how European leaders are responding to Washington's threat to invade Greenland, how a symbolic bill hints at GOP pushback against the Trump administration, and how volunteers are rallying to tackle growing rural homelessness. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The killing of a protester by an ICE agent in Minneapolis has reignited debates over the appropriate use of force in immigration raids. Also in today's stories: how European leaders are responding to Washington's threat to invade Greenland, how a symbolic bill hints at GOP pushback against the Trump administration, and how volunteers are rallying to tackle growing rural homelessness. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

After directing military action in Venezuela, President Donald Trump appears to be eyeing Greenland again. That is challenging Europe's understanding of its relationship with the U.S., and whether it can respond effectively to Mr. Trump's demands. Also: today's stories, including how Iran's leaders are juggling chronic economic malaise amid dissent; questions over the cost and the political instability that could be caused by the U.S. intervention in Venezuela; and how an influencer's unverified report on Minnesota fraud sparked White House action. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

Wildfires devastated LA-area communities about a year ago. There are some signs of recovery, but many residents remain uncertain about whether, or when, they will be able to rebuild their homes. Also: today's stories, including how South Carolina offers a new take on stand-your-ground laws; what steeper challenges lie ahead for French first lady Brigitte Macron after securing her legal victory over those who lied about her gender; and how South Sudanese youth use music to push back against war and ethnic conflict. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

The U.S. military's removal of Nicolás Maduro from Venezuela to face trial in a U.S. courtroom raises a host of questions about the legality of the Trump administration's actions. We look at what international law, domestic law, and historical precedent say about the legal rationale. Also: today's stories, including how U.S President Donald Trump campaigned on “No forever wars,” but his administration's intervention in Venezuela could test those promises; how ice melting in the Arctic may lead to Russia ramping up efforts to take advantage of the new territory; and why across the United States, jurisdictions are seeking to enact rent regulations. Join the Monitor's Sara Miller Llana for today's news.

Efforts to stop black market oil tankers from entering or leaving Venezuela signal that U.S. goals go beyond the narcotics trade to include pressure on the Maduro regime. Also: today's stories, including how Ukrainians are simultaneously lamenting a corruption scandal among the president's inner circle, but encouraged by anticorruption institutions; how Senegalese women are picking up the pieces after their husbands leave for Europe; and a look at one essayist's fondest Christmas memories. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

The long, emotionally exhausting ordeal of hostages held in Hamas tunnels, and the general trauma of October 7th, has led to a visible rise in religious belief among Jewish Israelis. As one hostage notes: “God will always listen. He does not get tired.” Also: today's stories, including why Latin America's authoritarian leaders are leaning into Christmas; a remembrance of Rob Reiner from our film critic; and which traditions our staff and contributors partake in to tap into the true meaning of Christmas. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

In Boston and other cities, some lawful permanent residents are having their naturalization ceremonies canceled, amid a Trump administration review of applicants from 19 countries identified as posing high security risks. Also: today's stories, including how Europe looking to conscript able-bodied citizens is a big ask after decades of peace and prosperity; how experts say there are ways society can defuse potential acts and reduce the risk of terrorism; and how Europe is fighting to preserve its identity in the teeth of U.S. opposition. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The Trump administration's more aggressive approach to Latin America is welcomed by many in the Cuban diaspora. They see one of their own – Secretary of State Marco Rubio – as an architect of the shift that, for them, has been a long time coming. Also: today's stories, including how Australian Jews are reacting to a mass shooting that targeted Bondi Beach's Jewish community; what's next for U.S.-Syrian relations following an Islamic State attack on U.S. soldiers; and how the fragile peace in Gaza affords an opportunity for Palestinian families whose relatives have gone missing to search for them. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

The Trump administration's more aggressive approach to Latin America is welcomed by many in the Cuban diaspora. They see one of their own – Secretary of State Marco Rubio – as an architect of the shift that, for them, has been a long time coming. Also: today's stories, including how Australian Jews are reacting to a mass shooting that targeted Bondi Beach's Jewish community; what's next for U.S.-Syrian relations following an Islamic State attack on U.S. soldiers; and how the fragile peace in Gaza affords an opportunity for Palestinian families whose relatives have gone missing to search for them. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

A large tropical island off China's southern coast will gain independent customs status on Dec. 18 – a move Chinese leaders hope will jump-start development in Hainan and pioneer new levels of openness for the rest of the country, despite the rise of protectionism. Also: today's stories, including how a charter school in Hawaii offers a paradigm shift around AI's role in education; how beef prices have hit record highs in the United States; and the 10 best movies of 2025, according to our film critic. Join the Monitor's Stephanie Hanes for today's news.