What A Day

President Joe Biden delivered an economic speech in Chicago on Wednesday outlining his vision for what he calls “Bidenomics.” The goal is to create more jobs, lower inflation, increase broadband internet access, and more. We’re joined by Jared Bernstein, President Biden’s top economic advisor, to discuss the details of Bidenomics.

And in headlines: Yusef Salaam is on track to win a Democratic primary for a City Council seat in Harlem, millions of Americans are under air quality alerts due to smoke from Canada’s wildfires, and seven-time Olympic medalist Simone Biles is back.

Plus, we’re joined by Alisha Humphrey, a Starbucks barista and union organizer, to talk about the ongoing workers strike over the banning of Pride decorations at the coffee chain.

Show Notes:

• Starbucks Workers United – https://sbworkersunited.org/
• The Progressive: Starbucks’ Decision to End COVID Protections Endangers Me and Other Baristas - https://progressive.org/latest/starbucks-end-covid-protections-humphrey-281022/
• Jacobin: Starbucks’s Abortion Promises for Workers Are PR Stunts. We Want a Union Contract – https://jacobin.com/2022/08/starbucks-abortion-transgender-health-care-promises-pr-stunt-union-contract
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

The Supreme Court issued a 6-3 ruling in Moore v. Harper Tuesday, dismissing the “independent state legislature” theory in a case about a GOP-drawn North Carolina congressional map. Mark Joseph Stern, senior writer at Slate Magazine, joins us to talk about the Supreme Court’s ruling, and the theory central to the case.

And in headlines: an audio recording recently made public suggests former President Donald Trump had “highly confidential” documents he did not declassify, the first UN investigator to visit Guantanamo Bay has urged the US to apologize for the treatment of prisoners at the facility, and workers at Starbucks stores are striking this week over the banning of Pride decorations.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed his nation on Monday for the first time since the short-lived military rebellion by the Wagner Group came to an end. During his five minute televised speech, Putin refused to specifically name Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, and called the mutiny organizers “traitors.” The Kremlin said that it reached a deal for Prigozhin to move to Belarus and receive amnesty, along with his soldiers.

On Monday, the Supreme Court ruled that sexual abuse lawsuits against Ohio State University could proceed, and in a separate ruling, unfroze a case that will likely force Louisiana to redraw congressional districts in a way that includes more Black representation. Decisions on key cases involving affirmative action, student debt, independent state legislature and more, are expected in the coming days.

And in headlines: the shooter who killed five people at Club Q last year pleaded guilty to five counts of first degree murder and dozens of counts of attempted murder, Guatemala is headed for a runoff election, and Jesse Watters has been named as Fox News’ new primetime TV host.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Yevgeny Prigozhin, Russia’s most notorious mercenary leader, sent an armed convoy toward Moscow over the weekend after accusing the country’s military of staging an airstrike on his own fighters. Crooked news contributor Max Fisher joins us to break down what happened, and what it could entail for Russia and the war in Ukraine.

And in headlines: Greek prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was re-elected for a second term, the Supreme Court sided with the Biden administration over how it can enforce existing immigration laws, and a federal judge in Orlando blocked the state of Florida from enforcing its recent restrictions on drag performances.

Show Notes:

• Crooked Media | Pod Save The World: A Russian Coup Against Putin? – https://crooked.com/podcast/a-russian-coup-against-putin-bonus-pod/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

The days-long search for the tourist submersible that went missing near the wreck of the Titanic came to a tragic end Thursday. A U.S. Coast Guard official said the five people aboard the vessel are presumed dead, after pieces of the craft were found on the ocean floor roughly 1,600 feet from the Titanic's bow. It’s believed that the submersible imploded.

This Saturday, June 24th marks one year since Roe v. Wade was overturned, ending the decades-long constitutional right to an abortion. Since then, about half of all states have enacted laws to restrict the procedure, and 14 states have banned the procedure entirely with very limited exceptions.

And in headlines: President Biden welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the White House Thursday, a Moscow court ruled that a detained American journalist must remain in jail until late August, and we finally know who bailed out Congressman George Santos after he was charged with fraud last month.

Show Notes:

• Vote Save America | Fuck Bans Action Plan – https://votesaveamerica.com/bans 
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito failed to disclose a luxury fishing trip he took in 2008 with hedge fund billionaire Paul Singer and did not recuse himself from later cases involving Singer, according to a new report from ProPublica. Instead of responding to ProPublica’s questions directly, Justice Alito penned an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal ahead of the report’s publication defending his actions. We’re joined by Leah Litman, professor of law at the University of Michigan and co-host of Crooked’s Strict Scrutiny podcast, to talk about the ethical violations and possible consequences for Justice Alito.

And in headlines: rescuers were in the final, critical hours of searching for the missing tourist submersible near the wreckage of the Titanic Wednesday, a federal judge struck down Arkansas’ ban on gender-affirming care for trans youth, and the Federal Trade Commission is taking Amazon to court.

Show Notes:

• ProPublica: Justice Samuel Alito Took Luxury Fishing Vacation With GOP Billionaire Who Later Had Cases Before the Court – https://www.propublica.org/article/samuel-alito-luxury-fishing-trip-paul-singer-scotus-supreme-court
• Wall Street Journal (Opinion): Justice Samuel Alito: ProPublica Misleads Its Readers — https://www.wsj.com/articles/propublica-misleads-its-readers-alito-gifts-disclosure-alaska-singer-23b51eda
• Tre’vell Anderson at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures — https://tinyurl.com/357cfpx5
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

On Tuesday, French financial police raided the headquarters of the Paris 2024 Olympics organizing committee as part of two ongoing investigations into the misuse of public funds. Prosecutors said they’re looking into potential conflicts of interest, embezzlement and favoritism.

President Joe Biden touted his administration’s historic record on combatting climate change during a recent trip to California. He recently won the endorsement of four major environmental groups for his re-election campaign – despite criticism from activists over the approval of new fossil fuel plans.

And in headlines: a federal judge has set a date in August to begin Donald Trump’s classified documents trial, Hunter Biden reached a deal with federal prosecutors to plead guilty to tax charges, and voters cast their ballots in Virginia’s primary election.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

SB 1718, Florida’s controversial new immigration law, is set to go into effect in less than two weeks. The law limits social services for undocumented people in the state, makes it harder for businesses to hire them, and earmarks millions to fund DeSantis' relocation of migrants to other states. Paula Muñoz with the Florida Immigrant Coalition tells us just how harmful this measure will be once it goes into effect.

And in headlines: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, a deep-sea submersible carrying five people to survey the wreckage of the Titanic went missing in the North Atlantic, and Amazon delivery drivers and dispatchers walked off the job in Palmdale, California.

Show Notes:

• Florida Immigrant Coalition – https://floridaimmigrant.org/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

In a major victory for Native American rights, the Supreme Court voted 7-2 to uphold key provisions of the 1978 Indian Child Welfare Act Thursday. ICWA was enacted to keep Native children with their families and tribes during custody disputes. Rebecca Nagle, host of Crooked’s This Land documentary podcast series, joins us to discuss the decision, and why the challenge against ICWA threatened tribal sovereignty.

And in headlines: Miami Mayor Francis Suárez has become the latest Republican to enter the 2024 presidential election, at least 42 migrants were bussed to Los Angeles from Texas, and a historic digital media strike has finally come to an end.

Show Notes:

• Crooked Media | This Land – https://crooked.com/podcast-series/this-land/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

For the first time since March 2022, the Federal Reserve decided to pause interest rate hikes. The Fed – which has raised interest rates ten times in the past fifteen months – said it wants to take some time to evaluate how the economy is reacting to previous rate increases.

On Wednesday, a grand jury indicted Daniel Penny in connection to the death of Jordan Neely. Penny – a former marine – was charged with second degree manslaughter last month after he fatally choked Neely – an unhoused Black man – on a New York subway train May 1st.

And in headlines: a federal judge has allowed writer E. Jean Carroll to revise her defamation lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, UPS drivers reached a tentative agreement with the delivery company to finally install air conditioning units in their trucks, and Instant Pot has filed for bankruptcy.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

At a Miami courthouse Tuesday, former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to 37 felony counts that he allegedly kept classified documents from his time in office. The historic case makes Trump the first-ever former U.S. president to be criminally charged by the federal government. L.A. Times senior legal affairs columnist Harry Litman joins us to talk about what comes next, and the complications ahead.

And in headlines: a Russian airstrike killed at least 11 people in Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown, a newly-released autopsy found that Olympic champion Tori Bowie died from childbirth complications, and Pat Sajak is retiring as host of “Wheel of Fortune.”

Show Notes:

• Talking Feds Podcast – https://www.talkingfeds.com/
• LA Times: (Column) Five ways Judge Aileen Cannon could protect Trump from the classified documents prosecution – https://tinyurl.com/yeypez3c
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Former President Donald Trump will appear in federal court in Miami today to be arraigned on 37 federal counts over his alleged mishandling of classified documents. It’s his second court appearance as a criminal defendant this year – and he is expected to plead not guilty.

SB 1718, a sweeping anti-immigration law signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, takes effect next month. It bears striking similarities to a ballot measure passed by California voters almost 30 years ago called Proposition 187, which galvanized the state’s Latino communities. L.A. Times columnist Gustavo Arellano joins us to discuss whether SB 1718 will have the same effect in the Sunshine State.

And in headlines: youth activists sued Montana in a first-of-its kind case over climate change, New York City has become the first city to mandate a minimum wage for app-based food delivery workers, and two non binary actors made history at this year’s Tony Awards.

Show Notes:

• L.A. Times: (Column) Can an anti-immigrant bill turn Florida blue the way Prop. 187 did for California? – https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-04-16/florida-sb-1718-california-prop-187-anti-immigrant
• L.A. Times/Futuro Media | This is California: The Battle of 187 podcast – https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2019-10-15/prop-187-this-is-california-battle-podcast
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

The Justice Department on Friday unsealed a 49-page federal indictment against former president Donald Trump. He faces 37 felony counts, including 31 counts of violating the Espionage Act. We’re joined by Kate Shaw, professor of law at the Cardozo School of Law and co-host of Crooked’s Strict Scrutiny podcast, to dig into the charges and what comes next.

And in headlines: a section of the I-95 highway in Philadelphia collapsed after a tanker truck caught fire, “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski died by suicide in his North Carolina prison cell, and four indigenous children were found alive after 40 days of going missing in the Colombian Jungle.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

In a social media post on Thursday, former president Donald Trump said he has been indicted on federal charges. Trump faces at least seven counts in connection with the classified documents found at his Mar-a-Lago home last year.

In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court voted to uphold the Voting Rights Act and reject Alabama’s congressional map, saying that the state legislature improperly diluted the political power of Black voters in the state. Melissa Murray, NYU law professor and co-host of Crooked’s Strict Scrutiny, joins us to talk about the high court’s history with the Voting Rights Act and the impact of Thursday’s ruling.

And in headlines: smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to spread across the country, a squeaky dog toy that parodies Jack Daniel’s could be taken off the market, and YouTube has de-monetized several videos from conservative pundit Candace Owens that include anti-trans content.

Show Notes:

• Strict Scrutiny live from Howard University - crooked.com/strictlive
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Smoke and haze from wildfires burning in Canada have blanketed much of the eastern United States. Several cities, including New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., remain under air quality alerts, and forecasters warn that dangerous conditions could linger for days.

Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law is back in the spotlight, after the woman accused of fatally shooting Ajike “AJ” Owens, was arrested Tuesday night. Authorities say Owens, who was Black, was shot through the front door of her white neighbor’s home last week, following a dispute involving Owens’ children.

Show Notes:

• Gothamist: How to protect your lungs as NYC’s air quality suffers from wildfires – https://gothamist.com/news/how-to-protect-your-lungs-as-nycs-air-quality-suffers-from-wildfires
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

The Kakhovka dam in southern Ukraine collapsed on Tuesday, unleashing floods and forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. While the cause of the collapse remains unclear, both Russia and Ukraine have blamed the other for the dam’s explosion.

In a win for trans rights, a federal judge in Florida partially blocked a law that bans trans youth from receiving puberty blockers and other forms of gender-affirming care. In a 44-page ruling Tuesday, Judge Robert Hinkle called the ban a political decision and not a “legitimate state interest,” adding that “gender identity is real.”

And in headlines: the Atlanta City Council approved funding for the controversial “Cop City” training facility, three people were killed and dozens others injured following an earthquake in southern Haiti, and Hollywood actors could join writers on the picket lines later this month.

Show Notes:

• Vote Save America | Fuck Bans: Leave Queer Kids Alone – https://votesaveamerica.com/bans/leave-queer-kids-alone
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Hundreds of people crowded Atlanta’s City Hall yesterday to give public comment ahead of a city council vote over the proposed police training facility that activists call “Cop City.” The vote would decide whether or not to allocate $31 million in public funds to help build the facility, which has drawn widespread opposition.

Another group of Latin American migrants arrived in Sacramento on a chartered jet Monday morning – the second flight of migrants to land at the state’s capital in the past three days. While no one has publicly taken responsibility, California officials believe Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is behind the unannounced flights.

And in headlines: military officials have an explanation for the sonic boom heard across the Washington, D.C. area over the weekend, hundreds of journalists working for the largest newspaper chain in the country walked off the job, and Spotify announced a new round of layoffs.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

President Biden signed the bipartisan debt ceiling bill into law, averting default and an economic crisis just days before the June 5th deadline posed to lawmakers. The final legislation – which passed swiftly through the House and Senate last week – suspends the nation’s debt limit until 2025.

Nearly 300 people were killed and more than 800 others were injured in a train accident in Eastern India on Friday. While the government has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, the mass casualties have renewed calls for authorities to take more action to ensure the country’s rail system is safer.

And in headlines: A federal judge rejected Tennessee’s anti-drag law, California officials are looking into the arrival of more than a dozen migrants to Sacramento from Texas, and the Directors Guild of America has reached a “historic” deal with Hollywood studios.

Show Notes:

• Crooked Media’s Friend of the Pod Discord – serverhttps://fotp.supercast.com/
• Tre'Vell Anderson at the MLK Memorial Library — https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/8491650#branch
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

In a blow to unions and organized labor, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a concrete company seeking to sue the Teamsters union for the profit they lost during one of its strikes. Advocates say the decision could prevent workers from exercising their right to strike nationwide.

The Senate voted to block Biden’s student loan forgiveness program, advancing the Republican-led legislation that nullifies the plan and repeals the current freeze on student loan repayments and interest. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk, which he’s expected to veto.

And in headlines: a Russian missile struck Ukraine’s capital city of Kyiv, Georgia police arrested three organizers providing aid to protestors of Atlanta’s “Cop City," and failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake has dropped a new single.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Former Gov. Chris Christie and former Vice President Mike Pence are expected to launch their 2024 presidential campaigns next week, joining the already crowded field of Republican candidates. They’ll be going up against frontrunners Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, both of whom are on the campaign trail in Iowa.

The Supreme Court is expected to issue rulings in several cases that will have huge social implications nationwide — from elections and voting rights to student loans, affirmative action, and even free speech.

And in headlines: The House approved the debt limit deal between President Biden and House Republicans, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott appointed former Secretary of State John Scott as interim attorney general, and high school theater kids in Indiana performed their gender-bending Robin Hood play despite pushback from parents and school officials.

Show Notes:

• The Washington Post: Their high school canceled an LGBTQ play. These teens put it on anyway. - https://tinyurl.com/5n8ee9va
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

The debt limit deal struck between President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is headed to a full House vote today despite hard-right Republicans opposing the legislation. Lawmakers have until June 5th to reach a consensus to avoid a default.

A drone attack hit Moscow Tuesday morning, marking the first strike in a Russian civilian area since the Kremlin launched its Ukraine invasion last year. The attack comes after Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, has seen a relentless onslaught of bombing over the past two weeks.

And in headlines: nine people were injured in a shooting in Hollywood, Florida on Memorial Day, the Republican-controlled Texas House voted to impeach Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, and Minnesota became the 23rd state in the U.S. to legalize marijuana.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close this May, we’re joined by Brian Beutler, Crooked’s Editor in Chief and host of Crooked’s Positively Dreadful, to talk about maintaining our mental health when the news gets bad, and how to stay hopeful in light of it all.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Every May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in the United States. The occasion was created to celebrate both Asian and Pacific diasporas — but the “PI” in “AAPI” is often erased despite the term’s intention to include them. As the month comes to an end, Kristian Fanene Schmidt, the executive director and co-founder of the Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti (PEAK), joins us to talk about how Pacific Islander communities are represented in entertainment — and how their diverse cultures and identities expand far beyond Western labels.

In headlines: The founder of the far-right militia group Oath Keepers was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his role in the January 6th riots, the Supreme Court ruled to limit the EPA’s application of the Clean Water Act, and the official Barbie Movie Soundtrack dropped just in time for summer.

Plus, V Spehar, host of Under The Desk News on TikTok and the podcast V Interesting, joins us to share a headline they’ve been following this week.

Show Notes:

• Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti – https://peakpasifika.org/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially entered the 2024 presidential race. In a glitchy announcement on Twitter Wednesday, DeSantis said he’s running for president to lead a “great American comeback,” and he’s using the slate of harmful, regressive laws he’s passed in Florida as evidence that he can get that job done. The ACLU’s Gillian Branstetter, who’s been keeping tabs on his legislative record, joins us to explain the dangers of the DeSantis agenda.

And in headlines: debt ceiling talks between the White House and House Republicans once again ended yesterday without an agreement, Target is removing some of its Pride collection merchandise following conservative backlash and threats to its employees, and we say goodbye to music legend Tina Turner.

Show Notes:

• Vote Save America | Fuck Bans: Leave Queer Kids Alone – https://votesaveamerica.com/fuckbans
• Scientific American: (Opinion) Fascism’s History Offers Lessons about Today’s Attacks on Education – https://tinyurl.com/2p8f4b46
• Vox: Ron DeSantis is following a trail blazed by a Hungarian authoritarian – https://tinyurl.com/ye757jhp
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

A year ago today, a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School. As the community of Uvalde, Texas marks the grim anniversary, families of the victims continue to demand answers – and accountability – from law enforcement and elected leaders. Shannon Watts, founder of the gun control advocacy group Moms Demand Action, joins us to discuss what needs to be done to stop America’s gun violence crisis.

And in headlines: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to announce his presidential campaign today on Twitter, writer E. Jean Carroll is seeking more punitive damages from Donald Trump, and the Los Angeles Dodgers have re-invited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to their upcoming Pride Night celebration.

Show Notes:

• Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America – https://momsdemandaction.org/
• Everytown for Gun Safety: Survivor Network – https://www.everytown.org/organization/survivor-network/
• Texas Tribune | Uvalde school shooting coverage – https://www.texastribune.org/series/uvalde-texas-school-shooting/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit

 crooked.com/whataday

More than 100 trans youth from across the country gathered in front of the U.S. Capitol on Monday for Trans Prom – a demonstration to center and celebrate trans joy. They were supported by parents, allies and trans adult – including WAD host Tre’vell Anderson – who spoke with some of the youth organizers at the steps of the Supreme Court.

And in headlines: an historic deal has been reached to keep the Colorado River from running too dry, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott announced his 2024 presidential bid, and TikTok has filed a federal lawsuit against Montana over a new law banning the app within the state.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy landed in Japan for the G7 summit, where he met with world leaders to continue lobbying for more military support for his country. And just hours after his arrival, Russian officials said troops had captured the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, a claim Zelenskyy denied.

President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy are back at the negotiating table today to continue debt ceiling discussions as the June 1st deadline looms closer. If both sides don’t reach an agreement beforehand, the government could default on its bills, causing a massive economic catastrophe.

And in headlines: Greece’s ruling conservative party has taken a resounding lead in that country’s national elections, the NAACP issued a travel advisory for Florida, and scientists are tracking a group of orcas that appear to be targeting – and sinking – boats in Europe.

Show Notes:

• LiveScience: Orcas have sunk 3 boats in Europe and appear to be teaching others to do the same. But why? – https://tinyurl.com/447e3rw5
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

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Publishing giant Penguin Random House and literary organization PEN America — along with a group of authors, students, and parents — sued Florida’s Escambia County School District and school board for banning books about race and LGBTQ+ issues from its libraries. Banned author George M. Johnson joins us to talk about the fight to free their book, All Boys Aren’t Blue, from censorship.

And in headlines: Senator Dianne Feinstein’s condition is worse than what was previously disclosed, Disney canceled the development of a $1 billion office complex in Orlando, Florida, and the L.A. Dodgers disinvited a legendary San Francisco drag activist group from the team’s upcoming Pride Night celebration.

Show Notes:

• “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson – https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374312718 
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Turkey’s presidential election is likely heading to a runoff on May 28th. Neither incumbent Recep Tayyip Erdogan – who’s been in power for two decades – nor his rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, have cleared the 50% threshold to win. The results will determine if Turkey, a NATO ally, will continue its autocratic backslide, or take a more democratic path.

Nearly two weeks after putting Jordan Neely in a fatal chokehold on a New York City subway train, Daniel Penny surrendered to police on Friday to face second-degree manslaughter charges. His arraignment came nearly two weeks after Neely’s death, which sparked protests over the treatment of people struggling with homelessness and mental illness.

And in headlines: Israel and Palestinian militants agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday, North Carolina’s Governor Roy Cooper publicly vetoed a 12-week abortion ban, and Brittney Griner hit the court for the first time since her release from Russian custody last year.

Show Notes:

• Brittany Packnett Cunningham: Jordan Neely Paid the Price for White Discomfort – https://www.thecut.com/2023/05/jordan-neely-paid-the-price-for-white-discomfort.html
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

Today marks the official end of Title 42, the Trump-era border policy that allowed U.S. border officials to expel asylum-seekers on public health grounds. We talk to Dara Lind, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, about the end of the policy, and what the restrictions that the Biden administration is putting in its place.

Republican-controlled state houses across the country continue to push anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, including Montana, where lawmakers have banned gender affirming care for trans youth, and also voted to censure Representative Zooey Zephyr. Erin Reed, an independent journalist and activist, joins us to talk about her work to make the country a better – and safer – place for transgender people.

And in headlines: writer E. Jean Carroll is considering suing Donald Trump again, Daniel Penny has been charged with second-degree manslaughter in the chokehold killing of Jordan Neely, and the FDA has finally paved the way to allow more gay and bisexual men to donate blood.

Show Notes:

• Immigration Impact: How To Seek Asylum (Under Biden’s Asylum Transit Ban), In 15 Not-At-All-Easy Steps – https://tinyurl.com/332kejkp
• Erin In The Morning | Erin Reed – https://www.erininthemorning.com/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Today marks the official end of the nationwide COVID-19 public health emergency. It was declared in January 2020, when just six cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed in the U.S. Now, more than three years later, more than 1.1 million people in the United States in total have died from the virus. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, host of Crooked’s America Dissected, joins us to talk about what the end of the emergency will mean for many Americans.

And in headlines: the Trump-era border policy Title 42 officially expires today, New York Representative George Santos pleaded not guilty to felony fraud charges, and MTV News has shut down after 36 years on the air.

Show Notes:

• Kaiser Family Foundation: What Comes Next After the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Ends – https://tinyurl.com/ck7w8zp9
• LAist: As Pandemic Emergencies End, People Battling Long Covid Feel ‘Swept Under the Rug’ – https://tinyurl.com/bdzkp2h5
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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Award-winning journalist and What A Day host Tre’vell Anderson has officially added “author” to their many accolades. Their debut book, We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV & Film, is out today, along with the audiobook and an accompanying limited series podcast. Tre’vell walks us through their process writing the book, the stories within it, and their message to future generations of Black trans kids.

And in headlines: a New York jury will begin deliberations today over whether to hold Donald Trump liable for an alleged sexual assault, California’s reparations task force approved several recommendations addressing the state’s history of racism and discrimination toward Black residents, and the Writer’s Guild strike has officially entered its second week.

Show Notes:

• We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film  – https://www.trevellanderson.com/books
• We See Each Other: The Podcast – https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/we-see-each-other-the-podcast
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Eight people were killed and at least seven others were wounded Saturday after a gunman opened fire at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas – making it the 200th mass shooting of the year, and the second deadliest since the Monterey Park attacks in January.

King Charles III was officially crowned Saturday as Britain's first new reigning monarch in 70 years. Royal watcher Kristen Meinzer tells us how Charles' coronation was different from when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, ascended to the throne, and how public opinion of the monarchy has changed since then.

In headlines: CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky will step down at the end of June, seven horses died at the Churchill Downs racetrack in the days ahead of the Kentucky Derby, and two American couples were busted for trying to bring in over 650 pounds of Fruit Roll-ups into Israel.

Show Notes:

• Gun Violence Archive – https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/
• Moms Demand Action – https://momsdemandaction.org/
• The Royal Report with Jack Royston and Kristen Meinzer – https://tinyurl.com/2v3fnfcf
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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On Wednesday, Russia accused Ukraine of trying to assassinate President Vladimir Putin in a drone attack on the Kremlin. Ukraine has denied the accusations, but Russia says it has the right to retaliate.

An investigation by the Department of Labor found that McDonald's franchises in at least four states had employed over 300 children to work in their restaurants, including two 10 year-old workers in Kentucky. This comes amid a sharp rise in federal child labor law violations over the past five years.

And in headlines: the man accused of fatally shooting five of his neighbors in Texas was arrested Tuesday night, Florida Republicans passed a sweeping anti-immigration bill, and the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the tenth consecutive time.

Show Notes:

• Vox: The Republican push to weaken child labor laws, explained – https://www.vox.com/policy/2023/5/3/23702464/child-labor-laws-youth-migrants-work-shortage
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

With the debt ceiling deadline now projected for June 1st, House Democrats are taking action in case negotiations fail. The move would allow Democrats to collect signatures to force Congress to consider a “clean” bill to raise the debt limit and avoid a catastrophic default.

Members of the Writers Guild of America are officially on strike after negotiations with Hollywood studios failed to reach a new contract. Alex O’Keefe, one of the writers behind the hit FX series “The Bear,” joins us from the picket lines to talk about the issues driving the strike.

And in headlines: a Montana judge ruled that State Representative Zooey Zephyr cannot return to work on the statehouse floor, the Biden administration plans to send more troops to the southern border, and a proposed bill would require campaigns to disclose whether they use AI-generated content in political ads.

Show Notes:

• Pencils Down: WGA On Strike – https://www.wgacontract2023.org/
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

The Writer’s Guild of America, the union representing thousands of film and TV writers, has called for a strike against Hollywood studios, after both sides failed to reach an agreement on a new contract. It’s the first major work stoppage to hit the entertainment industry since the 100-day strike of 2007-2008.

And in headlines: JPMorgan Chase will acquire First Republic Bank, Montana State Representative Zooey Zephyr sued over her removal from the House floor, and pilots with American Airlines have voted to authorize a strike mandate.

Show Notes:

• Iceberg lovers go wild over viral photos of the 'dickie berg' off Newfoundland's coast – https://tinyurl.com/2v3fnfcf
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

For more than two months, Nebraska State Senator Machaela Cavanaugh has filibustered nearly every single bill that has passed through the state legislature. It’s an effort to keep her Republican colleagues from following other red states to ban gender-affirming care for trans youth. Sen. Cavanaugh joins us to talk about how she’s managed to hold the floor – and keep fighting.

And in headlines: authorities in Texas are searching for a man accused of fatally shooting five of his neighbors, fighting continues in Sudan despite an extended cease-fire, and the federal government is reportedly scaling back drug screening rules to entice more young workers.

Show Notes:

• Don’t Legislate Hate PAC: Donate Now – https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dont-legislate-hate
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Writer E. Jean Carroll, who is suing Donald Trump for allegedly raping her in 1996, faced hours of cross examination Thursday – leading to a heated exchange with Trump’s lawyer, who questioned her memory and actions surrounding the alleged attack.

The Biden administration has announced plans to open migrant centers throughout Latin America in an effort to slow down the influx of migrants heading to the U.S. The announcement comes as Title 42, which border officials have used to turn away asylum-seekers on public health grounds, is set to expire on May 11th.

And in headlines: former Vice President Mike Pence testified before the federal grand jury investigating Donald Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, legislators in Kansas voted to enact a sweeping anti-transgender bathroom bill, and a new Twitter alternative is preparing to launch.

Show Notes:

• RAINN: National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline – https://www.rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-telephone-hotline
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday 

There are growing calls for the Supreme Court to adopt stronger ethics rules. It follows revelations earlier this month that Justice Clarence Thomas failed to disclose gifts and lavish vacations paid by a major Republican donor, along with a new report from Politico involving a real estate deal between Justice Neil Gorsuch and a law firm that had business before the high court. Jay Willis, editor-in-chief of Balls & Strikes, joins us to discuss what’s being done to address the allegations.

And in headlines: a Washington D.C. jury is deliberating seditious conspiracy charges against five members of the Proud Boys, the maker of Bud Light placed two executives on leave following backlash from its collaboration with a transgender influencer, and Ben of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream has started a new cannabis venture.

Show Notes:

• Balls & Strikes – https://ballsandstrikes.org/
• POLITICO: Law firm head bought Gorsuch-owned property – https://tinyurl.com/mwtnm5xh
• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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The Supreme Court issued a decision preserving access to the abortion drug mifepristone, meaning access to the medication will likely remain unchanged at least into next year.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy unveiled his plan to raise the debt ceiling last week. The proposal has a long list of demands that take aim at the Biden administration’s agenda — including cutting climate change investments, blocking student loan forgiveness, and adding work requirements for Medicaid and food stamp recipients.

And in headlines: The U.S. military evacuated American embassy staff from Sudan’s capital of Khartoum, three thousand migrants began a mass protest procession in Mexico calling for an end to migrant detention centers, and German government officials reached a deal with one of the country’s largest trade unions.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

The Pentagon is moving American troops to Sudan to prepare for a possible evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in the region. This comes amid a dayslong series of clashes between two warring military factions that has led to hundreds of deaths and injuries.

Buzzfeed is shutting down its entire news division after elevating reporting that rivaled many more established, legacy media outlets for over a decade. The company will also cut another 120 people across its teams, laying off about 15% of its workforce.

And in headlines: A fifth suspect was arrested and charged with murder in connection to the fatal 16th birthday party shooting in Alabama, House Republicans passed a bill that would bar trans women and girls from competing in female sports, and Elon Musk’s Twitter officially discontinued the legacy verification program.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

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For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

In the latest in the fight against mifepristone, the Supreme Court has delayed its ruling on the abortion pill until Friday at midnight — extending the continued use of mifepristone for a couple more days.

In a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court sided with Texas death row inmate Rodney Reed in his years-long effort to get post-conviction DNA evidence to try and prove his innocence.

And in headlines: the mother of Tyre Nichols sued the city of Memphis and its police department over the death of her son, the Florida Board of Education voted to expand the state’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law, and a Twilight TV series is in the works.

Show Notes:

• What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast

Crooked Coffee is officially here. Our first blend, What A Morning, is available in medium and dark roasts. Wake up with your own bag at crooked.com/coffee

Follow us on Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday