The Lead with Jake Tapper - Podcast on CNN Audio

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The Lead with Jake Tapper

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.

Sources: Trump Considering U.S. Military Action In Iran The Lead with Jake Tapper
The President just wrapped up a meeting with his national security team in the Situation Room as he calls for Iran’s unconditional surrender. This as officials say Trump is warming to the idea of using United States assets to strike Iranian nuclear facilities.
Jun 18, 2025
U.S. Attorney: Minnesota Suspect Stalked Victims “Like Prey” The Lead with Jake Tapper
Authorities lay out for the first time just how Saturday’s attacks unfolded in the shootings of two Democratic Minnesota lawmakers. Plus, President Trump is meeting with key allies as the United States moves warships to the Middle East and Israel and Iran launch new strikes. Is there an end to the conflict in sight? The President weighs in on potential negotiations and US involvement.
Jun 17, 2025
Iran Retaliates Against Israel With Missile Barrage The Lead with Jake Tapper
Iran has begun retaliating for Israel’s unprecedented strikes on its military leadership and its nuclear weapons program. Iran is now saying Israel is facing a dark night ahead.
Jun 14, 2025
Sen. Padilla Forcibly Removed From DHS News Conference The Lead with Jake Tapper
An Air India jetliner crashed today, killing at least 290 people on their way to London. Miraculously one passenger did survive. Plus, footage shows Democratic Senator Alex Padilla being forcibly removed from a news conference where Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was addressing recent ICE raids and protests.
Jun 13, 2025
Officials Update Arrests, Charges After L.A. Protests The Lead with Jake Tapper
Los Angeles officials give an update about arrests and charges after a fifth day of protests. But, as these demonstrations spread across the country, what comes next? Also, are tensions finally thawing between President Trump and Elon Musk?
Jun 12, 2025
Trump's Immigration Crackdown And CA Protests The Lead with Jake Tapper
A judge has just denied California’s request for an immediate block of Trump’s use of National Guard troops on the streets of Los Angeles. This as we see a fifth day of demonstrations. We are learning just how much of the deployment of the National Guard is going to cost.
Jun 11, 2025
Sources: 700 Marines Being Mobilized In Response To L.A. Protests The Lead with Jake Tapper
First the National Guard, now the United States Marines are on the way to Los Angeles as President Trump defends his deployment, saying local leaders were afraid to confront protesters. Plus, a brand new study on children and screen time. Why researchers say too much watching and scrolling could be a both a cause and a symptom of bad behavior.
Jun 10, 2025
DOJ: Man Mistakenly Deported To El Salvador Has Been Returned To U.S. To Face Charges The Lead with Jake Tapper
The Trump administration has returned Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States from El Salvador where he was not legally allowed to be deported. Abrego Garcia is now facing criminal charges from the Trump administration, having been indicted on two criminal counts including conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain.
Jun 7, 2025
Trump & Musk Feud Escalates With Personal Attacks The Lead with Jake Tapper
Elon Musk and President Trump’s relationship disintegrates in public view of the world as the two go after each other viciously and the fallout is ongoing. Plus, the newly elected chancellor of Germany joins to discus tariffs, trade, and the latest in global affairs.
Jun 6, 2025
Gaza Aid Operation Pauses After Days Of Deadly Shootings The Lead with Jake Tapper
Despite Elon Musk trashing his bill, President Trump is moving on and meeting with Senate Republicans. Can he keep them all together? Plus, what Trump says Putin told him about Ukraine’s two surprise attacks this week and Russia’s clear plans to respond.
Jun 5, 2025
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