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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.

WH: Trump Has “No Firm Deadline” for Iranian Peace Proposal The Lead with Jake Tapper
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.
Apr 23, 2026
 Trump: “I Expect to Be Bombing” if No Progress in Iran Talks The Lead with Jake Tapper
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.
Apr 22, 2026
 Lori Chavez-DeRemer to Step Down as Labor Secretary The Lead with Jake Tapper
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.
Apr 21, 2026
 Trump: Iran Will Turn Over “Nuclear Dust” The Lead with Jake Tapper
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 one of Trump’s perceived political enemies.
Apr 18, 2026
 Pope Leo: “Woe to Those Who Manipulate Religion” The Lead with Jake Tapper
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 astronauts who went to the far side of the moon and are now back on Earth.
Apr 17, 2026
 British PM Refuses to Join Iran War The Lead with Jake Tapper
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 global shortage of oil and tip the world into a recession.
Apr 16, 2026
 How the War & U.S. Blockade Affect What We Buy The Lead with Jake Tapper
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.
Apr 15, 2026
 U.S. Navy Blockades Iranian Ports After Peace Talks Collapse The Lead with Jake Tapper
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 against him.
Apr 14, 2026
 U.S. Consumer Sentiment Plummets to Record Low The Lead with Jake Tapper
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.
Apr 11, 2026
 Melania Trump Calls on Congress to Hold Hearing for Epstein Victims The Lead with Jake Tapper
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 the peace talks set to start in just days?
Apr 10, 2026
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