Podcasts about federal workers

Project 2025 began quietly in conservative conference rooms but today stands at the center of a storm over the future of American governance. Born from the Heritage Foundation and assembled by over one hundred right-leaning partners, its 900-page “Mandate for Leadership” lays out not just a governing plan for a future Republican administration, but a wholesale reimagining of the federal government itself. Supporters rally around its stated purpose: as Heritage's Kevin Roberts says, “We're going to impose the will of the people through a reinvigorated executive branch.” Critics, however, warn of what the American Civil Liberties Union calls “a blueprint for replacing the rule of law with right-wing ideals.”One of Project 2025's boldest proposals is placing the entire executive branch—agencies like the Department of Justice, the FBI, even the Federal Communications Commission—under direct presidential control. The aim, described by Roberts as “ending the era of the ‘independent' bureaucracy,” is rooted in the controversial unitary executive theory. The project calls for every senior official in the State Department to be replaced by a president's handpicked loyalists, bypassing the usual Senate confirmation process. Kiron Skinner, who authored the State Department chapter, explained her vision by insisting most career employees are “too left-wing” and must make way for “warriors for the conservative agenda.”The methods are as consequential as the proposals. Project 2025 revives the idea of “Schedule F,” a bureaucratic mechanism that lets a president reclassify tens of thousands of civil service jobs, stripping long-held protections. The National Federation of Federal Employees warns that by transforming apolitical government roles into political appointments, Project 2025 would make it nearly impossible for career staff to resist pressure or political overreach. As one union leader put it, “Without civil service protections, federal employees will be powerless to stop them.”The details ripple into almost every corner of American life. A return-to-office mandate for federal workers, for example, upends years of flexible work arrangements, with federal employees ordered back to their offices, often within tight timelines. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, an agency created after the 2008 financial crisis to oversee banks and safeguard consumers, is marked for elimination. Agencies like USAID, which manages American humanitarian aid abroad, have already faced drastic cuts and layoffs, with numbers reaching into the hundreds of thousands according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas.Labor unions also appear squarely in the project's crosshairs, with proposals to ban public-sector unions, eliminate card check elections, and speed up the process to decertify existing unions. Another core promise is what Project 2025 calls the “restoration of the family.” The authors advocate policies that would restrict abortion, curtail LGBTQ+ rights, and reinforce what they describe as traditional values. According to the project's summary, the intent is to make the family “the centerpiece of American life,” a phrase that has triggered heated debate over what counts as a family in today's country.Some experts warn these moves risk upending critical norms. Legal scholars have voiced concern that Project 2025, if realized, could hurry the erosion of separation of powers, spark legal battles over constitutional rights, and bring about what many label the most extensive centralization of power in the modern era. Detractors have called it a “systemic, ruthless plan to undermine democracy,” while supporters argue it's a necessary correction to what they see as runaway bureaucracy.Looking ahead, the nation waits. The next major turning point arrives this November, when voters will decide not only on a president but, indirectly, on whether Project 2025's policies—already mapped, written, and ready for day one—will be greenlit for action. Whichever side prevails, both the vision and the pushback it's generated signal a lasting confrontation over the future shape of American democracy.Thank you for tuning in, and come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

More than 150,000 federal workers have resigned, according to The New York Times. That number does not include the thousands of people who were laid off or fired.

Today's host was Michael Wear, Founder, President and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life.  Thanks for listening to The Morning Five! Please subscribe to and rate The Morning Five on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more about the work of the Center for Christianity and Public Life at www.ccpubliclife.org. Scripture: John 3 Top Headlines: 1) Eurasian Leaders Appear Together 2) Trump EO Pulls Back Union Rights for Federal Employees 3) Rep. Nadler to Retire Today's host was Michael Wear, Founder, President, and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life.  Join the conversation and follow us at: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@michaelwear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, @ccpubliclife Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichaelRWear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, @ccpubliclife and check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@tsfnetwork⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music by: King Sis #politics #faith #prayer #Nadler #2026 #House #Democrats #Xi #Modi #Putin #China #Russia #India #Ukraine #ForeignPolicy #unions #WhiteHouse #executiveorders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ajay Pangarkar, Workforce Performance Strategist and author of “Learning Metrics: How to Measure the Impact of Organizational Learning.

Every single one of us who considers ourselves part of the labor movement has some real deep, serious, and urgent soul searching to do this Labor Day. After already falling to historically low levels of union density, public and private-sector unions are facing an extinction-level event under the new Trump administration. That is not hyperbole; that is a fact. So the real question is: What the hell are workers, unions, and the labor movement doing to fight back?  These are the essential questions at the center of both of the interviews we are sharing in this special Labor Day episode, which were recorded at the Netroots conference in New Orleans, LA, in early August. In the first interview, Max speaks with Everett Kelley, national President of the American Federation of Government Employees, about the Trump administration's elimination of collective bargaining rights for federal unions. In the second interview, his first public interview since he was arrested by federal agents observing an ICE raid in Los Angeles in June, David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union – United Service Workers (West), speaks with Max about the status of his case and about the roles unions must play in the fight against fascism. Speakers:  Everett Kelley is the national President of the American Federation of Government Employees, which is the largest union representing federal and DC government employees. He began his first term of service as national President in February 2020, was elected to another term during the 42nd National Convention in June 2022, and was reelected during the 43rd National Convention in August 2024. Kelley has been a member of AFGE since 1981. He worked at Anniston Army Depot and retired from there after 30 years of service. David Huerta is a longtime labor leader, born and raised in Los Angeles County, CA, who currently serves as president of the Service Employees International Union – United Service Workers (West) (SEIU-USWW). Additional links/info:  American Federation of Government Employees website, Facebook page, and Instagram Hamilton Nolan, How Things Work, “Fragile movements crumble” Michael Sainato, The Guardian, “White House cancels union contracts for hundreds of thousands of federal workers” SEIU, “STATEMENT: SEIU President April Verrett on David Huerta's release from federal custody” Luis Feliz Leon, In These Times, “Trump has put a target on SEIU, and the labor movement is fighting back” Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “EXCLUSIVE: Union leader beaten & arrested at ICE raid SPEAKS OUT” (Video version of interview with David Huerta) Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “Unions face extinction under Trump. Is labor fighting back?” (Video version of interview with Everett Kelley) Featured Music:  Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song  

Is he right, or should he butt out? Plus – Parents are worried about safety when it comes to congestion in school zones GUEST: Lauren Fisher - manager, government relations for CAA South Central Ontario

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is ramping up training for new agents as the agency's director said he wants to train 10,000 new agents by the end of the year. ICE is recruiting retired federal workers to join its enforcement, legal and investigative units as a part of a broader campaign to beef up hiring to rid the nation of people of color. Join this channel for exclusive access and bonus content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g/join Five Minute News is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential news for the US and across the world. Visit us online at http://www.fiveminute.news Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/fiveminutenews.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews Support us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/fiveminutenews You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. Please subscribe HERE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g?sub_confirmation=1 CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed on this channel are those of the guests and authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Anthony Davis or Five Minute News LLC. Any content provided by our hosts, guests or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything, in line with the First Amendment right to free and protected speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk to Bob Funk about LaborLab's recent report highlighting how often union busters fail to file mandatory documents with the federal government. We've also got a representative from FUN on to talk about their trainings on how to act like a union without formal recognition. We'll be wrapping up by talking to LaborNotes' Luis Leon about the Mauser Strike and Sean O'Brien.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org  256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services,  and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself?   Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure.  Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

After President Trump invokes an exclusion for national security, several agencies terminate collective-bargaining deals with unionized government employees, including the VA, the EPA, and FEMA. Since most Americans aren't union members, is this a good political fight for Trump, who can argue that such contracts make Washington more expensive and less efficient? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's Labor Radio Podcast Daily: The Valley Labor Report on why you can't improve service without hiring federal workers. In labor history, 1927 saw New York's WEVD radio go on the air in honor of Eugene V. Debs. Quote of the day: Gene Debs. @LaborReporters @wpfwdc @AFLCIO #1u #UnionStrong #LaborRadioPod Proud founding member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network

As federal agencies shrink and restructure, former civil servants are stepping up to preserve what's being lost. A new oral history project from the Volcker Alliance and the Organization of American Historians captures the voices of displaced federal employees—offering an unfiltered look at public service, policy, and the personal toll of government downsizing. Here with more is the project director for the Federal Employees and Contractors Oral History project, Dr. Jason Chernesky.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is turning to retired federal workers as it tries to rapidly boost its ranks. We discuss the reasons behind the agency's hiring spree and the challenges it faces in its efforts.This episode: political correspondent Ashley Lopez, immigration policy correspondent Ximena Bustillo, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.For handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR's Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

1. President Trump Orders New Religious Freedoms for Federal Employees In a bold move, President Trump signs an executive order guaranteeing new protections for religious expression among federal workers. Dr. Chaps explains what this means for Christians in government jobs and how it restores First Amendment rights in the workplace. 2. Pastor Fired from Library for Refusing Trans Pronouns A part-time pastor and library employee is terminated after standing by Biblical truth and refusing to use transgender pronouns. Dr. Chaps exposes the growing trend of canceling Christians for their conscience and calls for justice. 3. Federal Government Asks for Evidence of Child Mutilation Surgeries In a surprising move, federal authorities are now requesting data and documentation on transgender surgeries for minors. Could this be the beginning of accountability? We discuss how you can help bring the truth to light and protect innocent children. Get free alerts at http://PrayInJesusName.org © 2025, Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, PhD. Airs on NRB TV, Direct TV Ch.378, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, GoogleTV, Smart TV, iTunes and www.PrayInJesusName.org

Since January, the Trump administration has moved aggressively to cut the size of the federal workforce. After months of changes and constant fear of potential job loss as layoffs loom, many federal workers found themselves struggling with high levels of anxiety or seeking therapy and medication for the first time in their lives. Some experienced chronic insomnia, depression, aggressive outbursts, isolation and even self harming thoughts Federal News Networks Anastasia Obis is here to break down new findings from an exclusive Federal News Network survey on mental health impacts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Watch this Live: Click Here Think retirement is decades away? Think again. Mel Stubbs breaks down the 10 retirement decisions that can make or break your future — and why federal employees can't afford to ignore them.

President Trump took a weekend trip to Scotland to promote his latest golf course, with taxpayers footing the bill. However, this trip was met with protestors showing opposition to the administration's immigration policies, the war in Gaza, and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Eugene Robinson and Brendan Buck join The Weekend to discuss the optics of this trip as the country demands answers about Epstein. Plus, fired federal workers are spending the summer on Capitol Hill with their kids, forcing lawmakers to see the true cost of their cuts to government. Former USAID worker Kathleen Borgueta joins The Weekend to explain. 

The Trump administration has the will, the plans and now the resources to ramp up immigration enforcement. Trump's Border officials say Americans will soon see ICE agents flood sanctuary cities run by Democrats. At Trump's request, the Republican led Congress earmarked more than $170 billion over the next four years for increased immigration enforcement, detention and deportation. It seems the immigration arrests happening across the country will only become more severe and widespread. We will talk about all of it and so much more with Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist and author David Cay Johnston. The Trump administration now has the go ahead from the Supreme Court to dismantle the US Department of Education. We welcome the Education workers union president, Brittany Coleman. She's the AFGE Local 252 Chief Steward and an attorney for the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in Dallas. It is Tech Tuesday once again on The Mark Thompson Show and that means Jefferson Graham will join us to talk about the latest gadgetry. The Mark Thompson Show 7/22/25Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com

Hugh Hallman, Attorney, Educator, and former Mayor of Tempe, joins Seth in studio for the full hour to talk about the New York Times piece “Federal Workers’ ‘Emotional Roller Coaster’: Fired, Rehired, Fired Again,” the Trump Administration’s push to cut funding to National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), and the MSNBC piece “Propaganda platform PragerU is primed to capitalize on Trump’s PBS cuts.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Day in Legal History: Narcotic Control ActOn July 18, 1956, the Narcotic Control Act was signed into law, marking a significant escalation in the United States' punitive approach to drug policy. The act built upon earlier federal narcotics legislation but went much further in increasing criminal penalties and tightening government control over narcotic drugs and marijuana. Under the new law, first-time offenders faced mandatory minimum sentences, and judges were stripped of discretion in sentencing for many drug crimes. Notably, the act introduced the possibility of the death penalty for those convicted of selling heroin to minors.The legislation was part of a broader postwar shift toward strict federal enforcement and reflected growing political and public fears about drug use, particularly in urban centers. It was championed by figures who saw narcotics as a moral and social threat, linking drug control to national security and public order. The law also expanded the jurisdiction of federal agencies, giving the federal government more authority to investigate and prosecute drug crimes that had previously been handled at the state level.Critics at the time and in later decades argued that the Narcotic Control Act laid the groundwork for mass incarceration and racial disparities in drug enforcement. The harsh penalties disproportionately impacted Black and Latino communities and did little to address the root causes of addiction. Nonetheless, the act stood as a turning point in the federal government's approach to narcotics—a hardline stance that would culminate decades later in the “War on Drugs.”A federal judge in Boston, Leo Sorokin, is considering whether to uphold a nationwide injunction against President Donald Trump's executive order limiting birthright citizenship. The order, issued in February, would deny U.S. citizenship to children born in the U.S. after February 19 unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The case is being brought by attorneys general from 18 states and D.C., who argue the order violates the 14th Amendment and would disrupt federal benefit programs like Medicaid and SNAP.The legal challenge has gained new relevance following a June 27 Supreme Court ruling that discouraged lower courts from issuing broad, nationwide injunctions. However, the Court allowed for exceptions, including in class actions or when needed to provide “complete relief.” The states argue that a nationwide block remains necessary due to the wide-reaching impact of the order and the need for consistency across state lines. They also contend that the Supreme Court's recent decision does not apply in this instance.If Judge Sorokin rules in favor of the states, it would mark the second time this month a federal judge has blocked Trump's order. On July 10, Judge Joseph Laplante issued a similar injunction in New Hampshire after finding that children affected by the policy could proceed as a class. The Justice Department maintains that the original injunction was overly broad and asserts that individuals should contest their citizenship status individually.US judge weighs putting new block on Trump's birthright citizenship order | ReutersPresident Donald Trump is calling for the release of grand jury testimony related to Jeffrey Epstein, following backlash from some of his supporters over a recent Justice Department report. The report found no evidence supporting long-standing conspiracy theories about Epstein's death or alleged connections to powerful individuals. In response, Trump labeled the investigation a "scam" and urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all relevant grand jury material, pending court approval.Bondi confirmed shortly afterward that the Justice Department is prepared to ask the court to unseal the documents as early as Friday. Her earlier promises to disclose "a lot of names" and "flight logs" related to Epstein had generated anticipation among Trump's base, some of whom now express frustration over the lack of new revelations. Trump has dismissed concerns as politically motivated fabrications.The renewed focus on Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges, has caused a divide among Trump supporters—some of whom feel betrayed by the lack of transparency, while others back Trump's framing of the issue as a partisan hoax. The legal effort to unseal the grand jury materials could reignite public scrutiny over Epstein's connections and the broader handling of his case.Trump asks for release of grand jury documents in Epstein case | ReutersA U.S. appeals court appears likely to lift a temporary block on a Trump executive order that limits collective bargaining rights for federal workers in national security-related agencies. The 9th Circuit panel, composed of two Trump appointees and one Obama appointee, questioned whether they had authority to override the president's determination that union activities could interfere with national security functions.The order, issued by President Trump, applies to major departments like Justice, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, and parts of Health and Human Services. It greatly expands existing national security exemptions by stripping union rights from a much larger group of federal employees. Judge James Donato had previously blocked the order for 21 agencies, citing potential violations of free speech protections for federal unions.During oral arguments, judges expressed skepticism toward union claims that the order was retaliatory and aimed at silencing opposition. The government's lawyer argued that the president has wide discretion in matters of national security, making his decisions largely immune from judicial review. However, one judge questioned whether there are any real limits to this power.The case could significantly impact how workplace conditions are set across the federal government and whether unions can continue to challenge executive policies in court. A ruling in favor of Trump's position would allow agencies to more easily change employment terms and sideline union input. A related lawsuit challenging union contracts is also pending in Texas.US court seem poised to lift block on Trump curbing union bargaining for federal workers | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Georg Friedrich HandelThis week's closing theme comes from the grand, imaginative world of Georg Friedrich Handel, one of the towering figures of the Baroque era. Born in 1685 in Halle, Germany, Handel made his mark across Europe, eventually becoming a naturalized British citizen and composing some of the most enduring works in Western music. Known for his operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions, Handel blended German precision, Italian lyricism, and English choral tradition into a distinctive style that was both dramatic and deeply human.Among his lesser-known but richly rewarding operas is Xerxes (HWV 40), premiered in London in 1738. Loosely based on the Persian king Xerxes I, the opera mixes romantic entanglements, comedic elements, and royal intrigue—a blend that puzzled its first audiences but has found appreciation in modern revivals. Its opening aria, “Ombra mai fu”, sung by the title character in praise of a plane tree, is a moment of serene beauty that has outlived the opera's initial failure. Often referred to as Handel's Largo, this aria became wildly popular in the 19th century and is frequently performed at weddings, memorials, and ceremonial events.Xerxes was ahead of its time in its use of shorter arias and flexible structure, which some scholars view as anticipating later developments in operatic form. The character of Xerxes himself—proud, impulsive, and absurdly fixated on love—offered Handel the opportunity to explore both satire and sincerity within the same role. Though the opera was pulled from the stage after only five performances, its revival centuries later has secured its place in the canon.For all his dramatic genius, it is perhaps this simple ode to shade and stillness—Ombra mai fu—that captures Handel at his most tender. This week, we close with that brief moment of musical tranquility, a Baroque lullaby to a tree, sung by a king, composed by a master.Without further ado, Georg Friedrich Handel's  Xerxes, overture. Enjoy!  This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

A new bill in the House aims to expand federal workforce access to AI Training. But with AI coming in many different forms and functions depending on particular positions and missions, agencies may be asking "AI Training for what?" Here with some suggestions about how to prioritize training strategies is the Director of Emerging Security Trends at the SANS Institute, John Pescatore.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025 After Kyle, Kerby speaks with long time friend, Hans von Spakovsky. They'll discuss SCOTUS and President Trump's firing of Federal workers. Connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/pointofviewradio and on Twitter @PointofViewRTS with your opinions or comments. Looking for just the Highlights? Follow us on Spotify at Point of View Highlights […]

Chip and Tez do the whole show in one take with no breaks and it still was 2.5 hours! Lil marco is impostered, florida loses in court, and taco tariffs. Grok becomes a full on Nazi, and of course headlines. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/chipchat--2780807/support.

More than 200,000 federal workers have been fired, resigned, or taken early retirement since President Donald Trump's inauguration. Now, this week, the Supreme Court ruled that Trump can proceed with additional job cuts at federal agencies. We'll unpack the sort of labor market fired federal employees face and hear how some job hunters are faring. Also, this spring's power outage in the Iberian Peninsula highlighted the vulnerability of modern payment systems.

More than 200,000 federal workers have been fired, resigned, or taken early retirement since President Donald Trump's inauguration. Now, this week, the Supreme Court ruled that Trump can proceed with additional job cuts at federal agencies. We'll unpack the sort of labor market fired federal employees face and hear how some job hunters are faring. Also, this spring's power outage in the Iberian Peninsula highlighted the vulnerability of modern payment systems.

The Supreme Court gave the Trump administration the green light to reorganize agencies and begin the process of mass firings of federal workers. The reductions in force had been on hold for months, but tens of thousands of employees at nearly 20 agencies could soon be out of work. Lisa Desjardins discussed where things stand with Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

In the 5 AM hour, Larry O’Connor and Bethany Mandel discussed: Zohran Mamdani Secures Victory With 'Most Total Votes' in NYC Mayoral Primary History Former Governor David Paterson Calls on Non-Mamdani Candidates to Coalesce Around One TSA Will Let Travelers Keep Their Shoes on at Airport Security Checkpoints Supreme Court Allows Trump to Fire Federal Workers Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 / 5 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Day in Maine Thursday, July 10, 2025

The Supreme Court gave the Trump administration the green light to reorganize agencies and begin the process of mass firings of federal workers. The reductions in force had been on hold for months, but tens of thousands of employees at nearly 20 agencies could soon be out of work. Lisa Desjardins discussed where things stand with Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

SwampWatch – Trump got green light to fire federal workers. Parenting w/ Justin Worshim – 10 parenting habits from the 80s that would spark outrage now / empty nesters reveal what it's really like when kids move out in 2025.

SwampWatch – Trump got green light to fire federal workers. Parenting w/ Justin Worshim – 10 parenting habits from the 80s that would spark outrage now / empty nesters reveal what it's really like when kids move out in 2025.

THE TIM JONES AND CHRIS ARPS SHOW 0:00 SEG 1 Trump says a hostage deal with Hamas should happen this week 16:38 SEG 2 ZACK SMITH, Sr. Legal Fellow at The Heritage Foundation | TOPIC: Top legal headlines of the day | Supreme Court allows Trump to fire federal workers | I.R.S says churches can endorse politicianshttps://x.com/tzsmith https://www.heritage.org/staff/zack-smith 32:50 SEG 3 Chris' Corner is about X's A.I. chatbot GROK becoming MechaHitler https://newstalkstl.com/ FOLLOW TIM - https://twitter.com/SpeakerTimJones FOLLOW CHRIS - https://twitter.com/chris_arps 24/7 LIVESTREAM - http://bit.ly/NEWSTALKSTLSTREAMS RUMBLE - https://rumble.com/NewsTalkSTL See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

THE TIM JONES AND CHRIS ARPS SHOW 0:00 SEG 1 Trump says a hostage deal with Hamas should happen this week 16:38 SEG 2 ZACK SMITH, Sr. Legal Fellow at The Heritage Foundation | TOPIC: Top legal headlines of the day | Supreme Court allows Trump to fire federal workers | I.R.S says churches can endorse politicianshttps://x.com/tzsmith https://www.heritage.org/staff/zack-smith 32:50 SEG 3 Chris' Corner is about X's A.I. chatbot GROK becoming MechaHitler https://newstalkstl.com/ FOLLOW TIM - https://twitter.com/SpeakerTimJones FOLLOW CHRIS - https://twitter.com/chris_arps 24/7 LIVESTREAM - http://bit.ly/NEWSTALKSTLSTREAMS RUMBLE - https://rumble.com/NewsTalkSTL See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Social Security Administration has moved on to its third chief information officer of the Trump administration, tapping yet another individual with Department of Government Efficiency affiliations. According to an update to CIO.gov, a federal page that features IT leaders in the government, Aram Moghaddassi has taken over as SSA's top IT official after previously working at the agency in a different role. Moghaddassi, who has also worked at the Labor Department, was at one point given access to IT systems at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, FedScoop previously reported. Per his LinkedIn profile, Moghaddassi previously worked for two Elon Musk-owned companies: the social media platform X and Neuralink. Moghaddassi is at least the third DOGE associate to be named CIO at SSA since President Donald Trump took office in January. By and large, people don't seem to be trying to access technology created by DeepSeek — the Chinese AI firm that's rattled leading U.S. AI companies and lawmakers — on government systems. But it has happened at least once at a federal civilian agency. Since January, there's been one attempt to access DeepSeek at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a spokesperson for the agency confirmed to FedScoop. The USDA successfully prevented access to the technology and has blocked DeepSeek through Microsoft's Defender for Cloud Application service since Jan. 28, the spokesperson added. DeepSeek is banned along with other public AI sites “based on risk levels that Microsoft provides in their Defender applications,” the person said. The agency did not say whether there were attempts to access the technology before the block was implemented. Lawmakers are increasingly concerned about DeepSeek, a China-based large language model developer that threatens the dominance of American AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. In the view of many federal officials, the company's technology raises serious security concerns. Last Wednesday, lawmakers proposed the No Adversarial Al Act, which would ban the use of DeepSeek on government devices, create a registry of foreign adversary AI systems and establish a method for these technologies to be delisted. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Seattle Mayor’s office backs sidewalk murals for fentanyl addicts to pass out on. Employees at Seattle’s federal building protested ICE raids. A Spokane teacher was fired for saying the “N-Word” while reading ‘To Kill a Mockingbird” to his class. // LongForm: GUEST: Fox Business host Dagen McDowell on why college isn't for everybody and the value of trade schools. // Quick Hit: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission fired a judge that fought Trump’s order stating there’s only two genders.

A bipartisan bill to revise the rules for federal workers' compensation cases unanimously advanced out of a House committee this week. The legislation would revise the Federal Employees' Compensation Act to allow physician assistants and nurse practitioners to treat feds in workers' compensation cases. A previous version of the bill passed the House in 2022, but did not clear the Senate. Co-sponsors of the bill say they're hopeful it will pass both chambers this Congress. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By one estimate, there are now over 100,000 federal employees currently on paid administrative leave. Some took the deferred resignation option offered early in the Trump Administration, but about 50% were put on administrative leave involuntarily. Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility has filed with the Office of Special Counsel claiming that administrative leave status was imposed illegally. Here with more on their argument and its status is PEER's senior counsel, Peter Jenkins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Five months into President Donald Trump's second term, federal workers told POLITICO that a combination of budget cuts, work stoppages and uncertainty have left the government unprepared to respond to disasters and halted key scientific research. POLITICO's Zack Colman breaks down how energy-related agencies are struggling to function. Plus, President Donald Trump has terminated Commissioner Christopher Hanson from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Zack Colman covers climate change for POLITICO.  Nirmal Mulaikal is the co-host and producer of POLITICO Energy.  Alex Keeney is a senior audio producer at POLITICO.  Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.  Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Israel, the U.S. armed outpost in West Asia, bombs Iran, assassinating several military leaders and at least one nuclear scientist. We speak to historian Gerald Horne. And here at home, the Trump administration tests the limits of executive authority by illegally calling up both the National Guard  and the Marines against protesters.  And the administration is still firing federal workers illegally. We hear from a union leader, and we speak to a lawyer helping them to fight back. With Gerald Horne, Mark Dimondstein, Sejal Singh, Becky Pringle, Lee Saunders, pro-immigrant and anti-ICE protesters in DC.  The show is made possible only by our volunteer energy, our resolve to keep the people's voices on the air, and by support from our listeners. In this new era of fake corporate news, we have to be and support our own media! Please click here or click on the Support-Donate tab on this website to subscribe for as little as $3 a month. We are so grateful for this small but growing amount of monthly crowdsource funding on Patreon. PATREON NOW HAS A ONE-TIME, ANNUAL DONATION FUNCTION! You can also give a one-time or recurring donation on PayPal. Thank you! On the Ground: Voices of Resistance from the Nation's Capital” gives a voice to the voiceless 99 percent at the heart of American empire. The award-winning, weekly hour, produced and hosted by Esther Iverem, covers social justice activism about local, national and international issues, with a special emphasis on militarization and war, the police state, the corporate state, environmental justice and the left edge of culture and media. The show is heard on three dozen stations across the United States, on podcast, and is archived on the world wide web at https://onthegroundshow.org/  Please support us on Patreon or Paypal. Links for all ways to support are on our website or at Esther Iverem's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/esther_iverem

OA1165 - Anna Chu is the Executive Director at We the Action, a nonprofit that recently collaborated with labor and democracy partners like the American Federation of Government Employees and Democracy Forward, to launch Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. This Network connects federal workers who are being illegally terminated to pro bono legal services to help them understand their rights and fight back. But before our main segment, Lydia sneaks in to OA HQ to give us an old fashioned Doozy Watch of how things have been looking for federal employees and where the various lawsuits stand. Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do! This content is CAN credentialed, which means you can report instances of harassment, abuse, or other harm on their hotline at (617) 249-4255, or on their website at creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org.

Welcome to our new mini-segment, Politics Nerds at Church, where we share advocacy items, tips, commentary, and action items about something going on in the world of politics. Our first episode is on providing aid for federal workers in the midst of all of the lay-offs, cut backs, and unknowns.Find and contact your local and national representatives at https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials. Learn more about the American Federation of Government Employees and get involved at https://www.afge.org/.

Government employment has long been a reliable pathway to Black middle-class prosperity. More than 18% of the federal workforce is Black versus about 12% of the civilian workforce overall. That means that the estimated 260,000 federal jobs eliminated this year by President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency will be particularly felt by Black federal workers. But first: The House Committee working on the Republican tax bill could be in for a long day.

Government employment has long been a reliable pathway to Black middle-class prosperity. More than 18% of the federal workforce is Black versus about 12% of the civilian workforce overall. That means that the estimated 260,000 federal jobs eliminated this year by President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency will be particularly felt by Black federal workers. But first: The House Committee working on the Republican tax bill could be in for a long day.

Following the first 100 days of Trump's second presidential term, MSNBC's Stephanie Ruhle hosts a town hall to discuss the administration's continued dismantling of the federal government. Live from Washington D.C., former federal workers forced out by the Trump administration's share how they've been affected by DOGE cuts on federal agencies. Political Correspondent Jacob Soboroff reports on the impact to these agencies and Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) joins to discuss how Congress is responding. Visit msnbc.com for more coverage.

It's Jobs Friday and all eyes are on government workers. Will the Trump administration's layoffs finally show up in the latest jobs report? Today on the show, we look at the numbers for federal workers and who's trying to hire them. Related listening: Can ... we still trust the monthly jobs report (Apple / Spotify) The last time we shrank the federal workforce (Apple / Spotify) A 'Fork in the Road' for federal employees (Apple / Spotify) How local government is propping up the U.S. labor market For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Six emergency applications have now made their way to the Supreme Court concerning President Trump's executive orders, so Andrew and Mary begin this episode by breaking down the emergency stay motions in several key cases involving birthright citizenship, federal workers, the use of the Alien Enemies Act and canceling education grants. Then, after a review of Trump's latest law firm blacklist targets and the problematic nature of targeting of universities and students, they focus on an executive order aiming to change how U.S. elections are run. And last up, Andrew and Mary decry the lack of accountability over Signalgate, as Trump resists doling out any consequences to his senior National Security leadership.For more on Trump's continued attacks on universities, check out the latest episode of Trumpland with Alex Wagner about the fallout at Columbia University and maintaining free speech on campus.Further reading: Here is the order from the DC Circuit Court of Appeals over Judge Boasberg's TRO pausing deportations under the Alien Enemies Act, which includes separate concurring statements of Judge Henderson and Judge Millett and a dissenting statement of Judge Walker.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.

Congress faces a shutdown deadline today as Senate Democrats weigh whether to back a Republican spending bill or risk being blamed for closing the government. President Trump makes a rare visit to the Justice Department, delivering a speech on law and order while his administration purges career prosecutors. And, federal judges order thousands of fired government workers to be reinstated, but legal battles could delay their return.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Anna Yukhananov, Ben Swayse, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Our Executive Producer is Jay ShaylorLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On today's episode, Andy & DJ discuss the Judge ruling that thousands of fired federal workers must be rehired immediately, Putin agreeing in principle with U.S. proposed 30-day Ukraine ceasefire, and the House hearing ending after a lawmaker introduces Rep. Sarah McBride as ‘Mr. McBride'.

Rachel Maddow reads from the court transcript in which a federal judge blasts the Trump administration's defense of its firing of thousands of federal workers and orders that the jobs be restored, with some harsh words for Trump's lawyers to boot.

A judge orders the reinstatement of thousands of federal workers, Anti-Israel protestors swarm Trump Tower, and a Connecticut woman is arrested for allegedly holding her stepson captive for decades. Developing stories you need to know just in time for your drive home. Get the facts first on Morning Wire. Good Ranchers: Visit https://go.goodranchers.com/4hPfmTE for free bacon, ground beef, bacon, seed oil free chicken nuggets, or salmon in every order for a year + $40 off with code WIRE.

On the campaign trail, Donald J. Trump and his allies left little doubt that, if they returned to power, federal workers would face layoffs, buyouts and agency closures.Now that President Trump's plan has become a reality, dozens of federal workers explain what it's been like to live through it.Background reading: Here's where Mr. Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE have cut federal workers so far.Stunned government workers are facing sleeplessness, anger and tears.For more information on today's episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. Photo: Mandel Ngan/Agence France-Presse — Getty ImagesUnlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.