Here & Now Anytime

An ‘October surprise’ is a scandal or newsmaking event that can influence voters just weeks before Election Day. Princeton University professor Julian Zelizer looks back at historic October surprises since the term was coined in the 1980s and before.

Then, the number of people receiving federal food assistance has hit its lowest point in nearly 20 years. Food policy journalist Helena Bottemiller Evich explains how need for assistance is still there, but policy changes have made it harder to access.

And, do you know the origins of phrases like “seize the day” and “let them eat cake”? Author Eli Burnstein shares more from his book, “Phrased & Confused.”

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy

The economy is a leading issue for voters this November, but other top issues vary compared to previous midterm elections, according to Pew Research Center. Pew's director of research Jocelyn Kiley tells us more. 

Then, AI is everywhere in the news, but the jargon can be hard to follow. Boston Globe columnist Larry Edelman joins us to define some of the most common AI terms and explain their significance.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy

"The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny," Kiran Desai's 2025 novel, is a sprawling, multi-generational family saga that plays out across four continents in the late 1990s. Desai talks about her epic second novel and the power of solitude. 

Then, "The Muppets Show" is turning 50. We speak with Bonnie Erickson, the creator of the Miss Piggy puppet, and Dave Goelz, the only human who has played Gonzo.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy

A U.S.-provided Starlink satellite has been a critical tool in Ukraine’s war against Russia. But, Ukrainian drone operator Dmytro Veselov says disruption in that system has caused an "irreversible" breach of Ukraine’s trust in the U.S.

Then, the latest analysis by the Cook Political Report finds more and more House races shifting toward Democrats. Erin Covey, editor with the Cook Political Report, breaks down the potential for Democrats to win control of the House.

And, in the aftermath of a high-profile sexual assault case at Cornell University, the school suspended all fraternity parties through the end of the school year. Nicholas L. Syrett from University of Wisconsin-Madison weighs in on whether fraternities can be reformed.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy

The Department of Government Efficiency lasted just a few months in 2025, but its impact will last for years. That's not because it made the government more efficient — it failed to meaningfully reduce federal spending — but because it hollowed out several government agencies and demonized federal workers. A new book tells the story of DOGE through the eyes of career civil servants who fought back. It’s called “Blockers: Rebels in the Deep State,” by Michael Lewis. He speaks to host Scott Tong.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy