This daily news preview is available to free subscribers thanks to the support of our Substack paid members. Thank you to all subscribers for reading, listening to, and watching our work, which in total generates 150 million views/listens per month.
Here’s what we’re talking about today.
This is a quick rundown of the topics we’ll be covering on today’s show. You can hit play to listen, or read the transcript below if that’s more your style.
Transcript:
Today is Thursday, October 16, 2025, and this is your news and preview of today’s show.
Donald Trump is downplaying the “No Kings” protests scheduled for this weekend, calling them small and insignificant. Fox News host Sean Hannity told viewers to “stay away,” comparing the rallies to unrest from 2020. Organizers say the events are peaceful demonstrations against authoritarianism, planned in multiple major cities.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made headlines after linking the protests to the economy, saying “No Kings equals no paychecks.” His remarks caused confusion, as the demonstrations have no direct connection to financial markets.
Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez warned that millions could lose health coverage if ACA subsidies expire. Sanders cited rising premiums, while AOC criticized Republicans for proposing only a one-year extension to mask the issue through the midterm elections.
President Trump also drew attention during donor events, where he appeared to struggle with speech. He thanked supporters for large contributions, criticized the Lincoln Bedroom, and described plans for his new presidential ballroom. Trump also claimed that he personally prevented a nuclear war between Iran and Pakistan by threatening tariffs, a statement for which there is no evidence.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi confronted a reporter who accused her of refusing National Guard assistance on January 6th. Pelosi denied the claim, noting the decision was President Trump’s responsibility. The exchange went viral as the false allegation continues to circulate in conservative media.
Vice President J.D. Vance defended members of the Young Republicans after offensive group chat messages surfaced. Vance said “kids do stupid things,” though participants were adults in leadership roles within the party.
Finally, Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva, Democrat from Arizona’s 7th congressional district, joins us to discuss the delay in her swearing-in and how it connects to the Republican effort to block the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
On the Bonus Show today:
A judge halts Trump’s shutdown layoffs.
Capitol Police investigate a swastika found in a representative’s office.
The US revokes the visas of six foreigners over Charlie Kirk comments, and much more...
Don’t miss the full show with these stories and others, plus all of our analysis. Tune in at 2:30 pm eastern on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or catch the video show at 9:00 pm eastern on YouTube. Consider becoming a paid Substack supporter to support extras like these news episodes. Thank you.
