The Lead with Jake Tapper
News & Politics
About
CNN's lead DC anchor and chief Washington correspondent, Jake Tapper, hosts this two-hour long weekday afternoon program, with headlines from around the country and the world, the top stories in national and international news, politics, health, money, the environment, sports and popular culture. The Lead also concentrates on bringing stories that aren't found on front pages—buried leads—to the forefront.
Episodes
- Source: Bondi Answered Questions on Ghislaine Maxwell in Interview
Former Attorney General Pam Bondi defended her role in the release of the Epstein files in a closed door interview. A look at what she in the room about Ghislaine Maxwell. Plus, President Trump says he is near a final decision on Iran. Lea…
- U.S. & Iran Reach Deal to Open Strait, Trump Must Still Sign Off
A series of strikes from the United States and Iran as a tentative agreement emerges to open the Strait of Hormuz and start nuclear talks, according to US officials. Plus, protestors gather outside an ICE detention facility in New Jersey f…
- Trump’s GOP Purge Continues as Paxton Ousts Sen. Cornyn
A slew of ads and attacks from the Republican establishment over the past year and a half against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton are all gone now that Paxton is the GOP pick to face Democrat James Talarico in one of the most contested f…
- Trump Backing Paxton Over Sen. Cornyn Tests His Grip on GOP
Will a Trump-backed candidate unseat Republican Senator John Cornyn in Texas? We go live to Texas as the voters decide. Plus, Iran warns of retaliation after US strikes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
- U.S. Iran Work to Resolve Disputes on Nuclear Issues & Sanctions
Sources say the White House is optimistic about a deal to end the war with Iran despite disputes about the country’s nuclear program. Plus, John Cornyn and Ken Paxton battle for the Texas Senate nomination. Learn more about your ad choices…
- Trump Won’t Commit to Taiwan Arms Sale
President Trump expressed reservations about the Reagan-era commitment to Taiwan, framing it as less than a firm promise. This follows his discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping before returning to Washington.
- Xi Hails New Era in U.S.-China Relations But Warns Trump on Taiwan
Xi Jinping stated the U.S. will face consequences for interfering in Taiwan. The episode also covers President Trump's comments before the U.S.-China summit and discusses an ethics attorney's advice to Todd Blanche concerning legal cases i…
- Iran, Trade, Tech, Taiwan on Agenda for Trump-Xi Summit
President Trump is scheduled to meet with Xi Jinping to discuss key issues including Iran, trade, and technology. Additionally, Alex Murdaugh, who denied killing his wife and son, has had his murder convictions overturned.
- Sources: Trump Seriously Thinking of Restarting Combat Operations
Jake Tapper discusses President Trump’s consideration of restarting combat operations. The episode also covers inflation’s effect on American wages and a US mayor’s guilty plea for acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government.
- 16 Passengers Under Observation in Nebraska Quarantine Unit
The episode discusses 18 passengers from a cruise ship experiencing a hantavirus outbreak who have returned to the United States. One passenger is reportedly showing symptoms. Additionally, it covers President Trump's statement calling Ira…
- Democrats Delivered Major Loss
CDC staff are now en route to that cruise ship with the hantavirus outbreak ready to escort Americans off and get them into a biocontainment unit in Nebraska. Plus, the Virginia Supreme Court rules the commonwealth’s new congressional maps…
- CENTCOM: U.S. Military Responded to “Unprovoked Iranian Attacks”
Multiple states are now monitoring Americans who may have been exposed to the hantavirus. Plus, the United States confirmed Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. A look at what it means for the ceasefire and negotiations to end the war.…
- Trump Gets Revenge on Indiana Republicans Who Defied Him
The FBI raided the office and business belonging to one of the most powerful Democrats in Virginia politics. Plus, paying tribute to CNN founder Ted Turner who died today at the age of 87. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastcho…
- Hegseth: Ceasefire “Is Not Over” Despite Mutual Attacks
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was front and center at the White House briefing room today where he underscored a new phase of the war with Iran. This as we are seeing a new power struggle over the Strait of Hormuz. Learn more about your a…
- Iran & U.S. Trade Shots, Iran Attacks UAE
A new threat from Trump as the United States shoots down more Iranian boats and Iran attacks the United Arab Emirates. Plus, did taxpayer money help keep sexual harassment cases involving several members of Congress out of public eye? Lear…
- Trump Rejects Latest Proposal From Iran
The price of US gas climbs to $4.39 and experts expect another spike this weekend. President Trump is “not satisfied” with a new Iranian proposal to end the war. The President also spoke to a crowd of senior citizens in Florida to promote…
- Hegseth Defends War Despite Polls
Experts explain why the price of gas is on the rise. Plus, the recent United States Supreme Court decision is already upending elections. Louisiana is now putting House races on hold one day after the Supreme Court invalidated the state’s…
- Trump Confirms Call with Putin
A defiant Jerome Powell vows to stay as a Federal Reserve board member once his term as chairman ends next month. Plus, the decision from the Supreme Court that critics say chips away at the landmark 1965 Voting Rights Act. Learn more abou…
- Arrest Warrant Issued for Former FBI Director James Comey
For the second time in world history, a British monarch, King Charles III, went to Capitol Hill and addressed Congress. Topics ranged from climate change to NATO to the United Nations. Plus, former FBI Director James Comey is indicted for…
- King Charles Begins High-Stakes Diplomatic Visit to U.S.
Britain's King Charles III met with Trump at the White House amid fraying United States and United Kingdom relations due to the Iran war. We bring you all the latest updates and planned events surrounding the monarch’s four-day state visit…
- Report: Warnings About Epstein Abuse Went Unheeded by UK Police
A United States delegation is heading to Pakistan. But, will they get to meet face-to-face with a top Iranian official who is already there? Plus, a report alleges more Epstein crimes after Virginia Guiffre tried to sound the alarm. Learn…
- Trump Orders Navy to “Shoot & Kill” Mine-Laying Boats in Strait
President Trump tells the United States Navy to take out any Iranian boats placing mines in the Strait of Hormuz, risking escalating tensions and causing oil prices to rise once again. Plus, a new investigation launched into the Justice De…
- WH: Trump Has “No Firm Deadline” for Iranian Peace Proposal
Iran is seizing ships as more talks are allegedly set for who knows when. Plus, a look at the fight for control of Congress in 2026 as Virginia voters side with Democrats and change the map. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastc…
- Trump: “I Expect to Be Bombing” if No Progress in Iran Talks
President Trump is now ordering the US military to hold off on any attacks and to keep up the blockade on Iranian ports. Plus, Trump’s pick to lead the Federal Reserve was grilled on Capitol Hill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit po…
- Lori Chavez-DeRemer to Step Down as Labor Secretary
A ceasefire with Iran is about to expire so will we see more strikes? Plus, an apology from United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer tied to the Epstein files as he tries to quiet calls for him to resign. Learn more about your ad choices…
- Trump: Iran Will Turn Over “Nuclear Dust”
Iranian sources dispute Trump’s claims that Iran has agreed to forfeit all of their “nuclear dust” to the United States in the current negotiations. Plus, a federal prosecutor was pulled from the case after he resisted pressure to charge o…
- Pope Leo: “Woe to Those Who Manipulate Religion”
President Trump claims the United States has a lot of agreement with Iran. Also, according to police, former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia kills his wife and himself. Plus, nearly one week after splashdown we hear from the four astronaut…
- British PM Refuses to Join Iran War
President Trump’s new threat against the chair of the Federal Reserve. Plus, a second investigation has been launched into former congressman Eric Swalwell. Also, the International Monetary Fund is warning the Iran war could create a globa…
- How the War & U.S. Blockade Affect What We Buy
New criticism from President Trump as he takes issue with words from the Pope. Plus, two members of Congress are out of their jobs after getting engulfed in sex-related scandals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/a…
- U.S. Navy Blockades Iranian Ports After Peace Talks Collapse
President Trump’s wild explanation for a fake AI image depicting him as Jesus. Plus, President Trump’s new threat to Iran. Also, Rep. Swalwell announced he plans to resign from Congress following explosive allegations of sexual misconduct…
- U.S. Consumer Sentiment Plummets to Record Low
President Trump’s new warning to Iran just one day ahead of peace talks set to begin tomorrow. Plus, one of the most critical moments of the Artemis II mission is just moments away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.co…
- Melania Trump Calls on Congress to Hold Hearing for Epstein Victims
First lady Melania Trump delivers a surprise statement, saying the lies about her and Epstein must end. But, why is she making this statement now? Plus, Lebanon is bombarded by a series of new strikes from Israel. Will Netanyahu jeopardize…
- U.S.-Iran Ceasefire on Shaky Ground Amid Continued Attacks
The vice president is calling the two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Iran fragile. Today, Iranian state media reports that Iran has stopped oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz because, Iran says, Israel has carried…
- Trump: Iranian Civilization “Will Die” if Deal Isn’t Made by 8PM ET
We are hours away from President Trump’s deadline for Iran to make a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The President just told Fox News that the United States is in heated negotiations over the Iran war. Learn more about your ad choices…
- Trump to Iran: Strike Deal, or Bridges & Power Will Be “Decimated”
President Trump hosted a new conference today that lasted nearly 90 minutes in which he wouldn’t say whether the war is winding down, calling it a “critical period” that depends on Iran’s actions. Plus, the Artemis II crew approaches the m…
- U.S. Searching for Crew Member After F-15 Downed in Iran
Iran’s military is now claiming that it has struck a second combat plane today. We bring you the latest details in the urgent search and rescue operation. Plus, CNN is learning from multiple sources that several Cabinet officials could be…
- President Trump Fires Pam Bondi as Attorney General
Sources tell CNN that President Trump had a tough conversation with now former Attorney General Pam Bondi. Plus, hear from the head of one state election office vowing to take legal action against Trump’s crackdown on mail-in voting. Learn…
- AAA: CA Drivers Paying About $5.89 For Gas, Highest in U.S.
A brand new security alert for U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia warns that hotels, American businesses, and schools could quickly become targets. This as three key NATO allies cut off U.S. access to their bases for Iran operations. Also, the…
- Status Of Diplomatic Talks Uncertain Amid Trump’s Shifting Goals
In the fifth week of the war with Iran, the White House says its four to six week timeline on Iran has not changed. So, is Operation Epic Fury almost over? CNN’s experts discuss where the situation stands. Learn more about your ad choices.…
- TSA Workers Miss Second Full Paycheck As DHS Shutdown Drags On
Plans are set into motion to pay TSA workers in a matter of days after a record number of them called out in a single day. Plus, breaking details about Tiger Woods being arrested on suspicion of DUI after a serious car crash. Learn more ab…
- Trump Admin. Pushing for New Investigation Into Letitia James
President Trump says he is granting Iran a new extension, pausing the threatened strikes on Iranian power plants. Plus, what the President says about gas prices that keep going up. Also, a look at efforts to end the partial government shut…
- Sources: Iran Laying Traps For Potential U.S. Attack On Kharg Island
Sources say Iran is planting mines on Kharg Island before US troops possibly land there. When does the ongoing US troop buildup constitute boots on the ground? Our experts are standing by. Plus, two juries find Meta liable in lawsuits. Lea…
- Talks To Fund DHS Ramp Up As Airport Lines Grow More Unpredictable
The NTSB reveals new details about the fire truck that crashed with an Air Canada flight coming in for landing. Our aviation experts join with their analysis. Plus, the puzzling gift President Trump claims he received from Iran. Learn more…
- Iran Denies Talks With U.S. As Trump Claims “Points Of Agreement”
New footage shows when an Air Canada plane collided with a firetruck on the runway leaving two pilots dead. Plus, ICE agents are now at 14 US airports as TSA workers call out or even quit. Also, President Trump claims the US has 15 points…
- Sources: Pentagon Considering Ground Troops To Take Kharg Island
TSA workers are calling out of work at near record levels causing massively long airport lines and it’s about to get much worse. Plus, the Pentagon is weighing deploying ground troops to Iran’s Kharg Island. Learn more about your ad choice…
- Global Oil Prices Surge To $110 After Strikes On Energy Facilities
US billionaire President Trump insists the economic pain because of the war is only temporary. An oil executive who was in key meetings today joins. Plus, top intelligence officials were back on Capitol Hill today, pressed about the bigges…
- Source: No Warning Sirens Ahead Of Strike That Killed 6 U.S. Troops
Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin faced tough questions on Capitol Hill today during a confirmation hearing while trying to separate himself from Kristi Noem, the DHS chief just fired by President Trump. Plus, Director of National Intell…
- Top U.S. Counterterrorism Official Resigns Over Iran War
Trump’s National Counterterrorism Center director resigned from his post today after saying that Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States. This and the latest in Trump’s war in Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas…
- Cuba’s Power System Suffers Total Collapse
After weeks of a United States oil blockade, Cuba’s electric grid suffered a total collapse. Also, as the war with Iran enters its third week, President Trump is criticizing US allies who say they do not want to be pulled into the conflict…
- Judge Blocks Subpoenas In Jerome Powell Investigation
A federal judge just blocked subpoenas in the DOJ’s investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Plus, Iran ramps up strikes against ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adcho…