podcast
CNN Political Briefing
The political news you need to know, in 10 minutes or less. CNN Political Director David Chalian shares the latest insider analysis so you can make sense of the headlines.

As relatively positive data about the economy was released this week, President Biden touted the good news. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how Biden contrasted his economic policies with Republican policies, which could be a preview of his possible reelection campaign message. Plus, we’ll tell you about the President’s new White House chief of staff.
Jan 27, 2023
How do Americans think House GOP leadership is doing so far this year? CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down a new CNN poll that answers that question and what issues matter most to people. Plus, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy denied two Democrats seats on the House Intelligence committee – one of them is running for Senate in 2024.
Jan 26, 2023
There’s bipartisan concern on Capitol Hill over how the executive branch handles classified material. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why teams for President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump view former Vice President Mike Pence’s discovery as helpful for them. Plus, how do the American people feel about Biden and Trump’s cases? Do any other former presidents have classified documents?
Jan 25, 2023
What do the former president, the current president and now the former vice president all have in common? They all had classified documents in places they shouldn’t have been. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains what we know about this discovery at Mike Pence’s home, and how it fairs politically with Donald Trump and Joe Biden’s cases. Both parties think these three instances show a systemic problem.
Jan 24, 2023
The FBI searched President Joe Biden’s Delaware home last Friday and found more classified documents. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why the political fallout from these discoveries is getting worse for the White House. As the administration deals with this, House Republicans are conducting their own investigation into the matter. Plus, a new White House Chief of Staff is taking over soon.
Jan 23, 2023
This weekend would have been the 50th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision. Since the constitutional right to abortion was overturned in June, today’s March for Life in DC made clear the anti-abortion movement isn't done fighting. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down their new goals, and what both parties are doing post-Roe. Plus, the Supreme Court says it still doesn’t know who leaked the draft Dobbs opinion.
Jan 20, 2023
The Treasury Department says the US hit the debt ceiling today, setting up a showdown in Washington to either raise it or risk economic turmoil. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why raising the government’s borrowing cap is being politicized. House Republicans want concessions in exchange for raising the debt limit, while the White House isn’t willing to negotiate.
Jan 19, 2023
House Republicans are moving forward with their investigations into President Joe Biden, his administration, and his family. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what they’re investigating, the information they want, and how the parties involved are responding.
Jan 18, 2023
House Republicans are trying to figure out a committee assignment for embattled GOP Congressman George Santos, while calls for his resignation grow for lying about his resume and background. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how House GOP leadership sees the situation. Plus, Santos’ ex-roommate reveals he was suspicious about him when they lived together in 2013.
Jan 17, 2023
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President Joe Biden gave the keynote address at the National Action Network’s annual MLK Day breakfast in DC. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down Biden’s speech, where he highlighted his administration’s efforts aimed at ensuring racial equality. Plus, Dr. King’s oldest son gave his thoughts on how the US is delivering on his dad’s dream.
Jan 16, 2023