The Lead with Jake Tapper

In her new book, the star witness for the January 6th committee hearings, Cassidy Hutchinson, says Rudy Giuliani groped her according to an excerpt obtained by The Guardian. Plus, tough questions were put to Attorney General Merrick Garland at a House Judiciary Committee hearing focused on allegations surrounding Hunter Biden. Also, a sobering statistic from the US Census Bureau shows child poverty has doubled in the last year. 

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President of Poland Andrzej Duda joins to discuss the Ukraine war as he urges the United Nations to remember World War II as well as Putin’s imperial ambitions. Plus, Canadian Prime Minster Justin Trudeau links India’s government in the assassination of a prominent Sikh leader on Canadian land. Also, a look at new testimony from the whistleblower who alleged political interference in the federal criminal investigation of Hunter Biden’s taxes.  

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First, inside the negotiations to release several American prisoners held in Iran. As part of the deal, the US unfroze $6 billion in Iranian funds. Plus, Jeffrey Clark, whom Trump almost appointed as attorney general, irritated a judge by not showing up for a hearing. Also, while bargaining tasks continue between Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, the UAW say they may announce additional international walkouts soon.

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The United Auto Workers union is now on strike, pushing for higher pay and better benefits. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) joins to answer how she believes this can be resolved and if everyone is bargaining in good faith as a former presidential candidate and current US Senator joins the picket line. Plus, 32 of Donald Trump’s Twitter direct messages have been turned over to the special counsel as part of the federal election subversion investigation. Also, according to international officials, more than 5,000 people are presumed dead in Libya after devastating flooding with another 10,000 missing. 

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New legal trouble emerges for Hunter Biden who has been indicted on federal charges, accused of lying to buy a gun and possessing it while addicted to drugs. Plus, Trump’s Fulton County, Georgia case is delayed and a new date has not yet been set. The lawyer for Kenneth Chesebro has been provided a mass trove of evidence culminating in eight terabytes of data. Also, talk shows are back in production as the Hollywood writers strike continues. 

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House Speaker Kevin McCarthy gathers Republican Party colleagues and defends his call to order an impeachment inquiry into President Biden without sufficient evidence to convince all of his fellow House Republicans. Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) joins to answer if there’s a chance Biden is not impeached once the inquiry begins. Plus, the escaped killer from a Pennsylvania prison has been captured in part from assistance from infrared technology and a police canine unit. 

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Under the threat of being ousted himself, House Speaker McCarthy directed GOP-led committees to investigate the president and his connections to his son’s business dealings. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin joins to provide his take on the impeachment effort and Speaker McCarthy not having a floor vote. Plus, the Pennsylvania manhunt for an escaped inmate escalates as authorities learn the escapee is now armed. Also, the NFL has announced star quarterback Aaron Rogers is out with an achilles injury for the remainder of the season. 

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A deadly earthquake in Morocco has killed over 2,800 people and the death toll is expected to rise as rescues crews are underway. Plus, new sightings of the escaped Pennsylvania inmate though he is nowhere near the Pennsylvania prison where he escaped. New door bell cameras capture his moves and his clean shaven look. Also, President Biden addresses the nation as the US marks 22 years since 9/11. 

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Prominent names, including Sen. Linsdey Graham (R-S.C.), emerge in a special grand jury report revealing folks who narrowly escaped indictment in Fulton County, Georgia. The report now made public sheds even more light into the alleged conspiracy to steal those 16 electoral votes and who was involved. Plus, a Philadelphia police officer was charged with murder after shocking body cam video released shows the deadly shooting of Eddie Irizarry. 

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Former Trump White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has been found guilty on two counts of contempt of Congress. Plus, That ‘70s Show actor Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for multiple counts of rape. Also, President Biden is heading to the G20 amid negative poll numbers and a looming possible indictment for his son Hunter. 

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The US Senate will move forward on three spending bills next week, including a short term spending bill to avoid a government shutdown. Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) joins to discuss if bipartisan efforts have been made to find consensus on spending. Also, Donald Trump said he would absolutely testify in his own defense in the Fulton County, Georgia case. Plus, a look at the charges of conspiracy to overthrow that state’s 16 electoral votes as two defendants get some bad news from the judge. Then, a manhunt for a convicted killer continues in Pennsylvania as two school districts in the commonwealth have cancelled classes. 

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The former chairman of the of the Proud Boys, Enrique Tarrio, was sentenced to 22 years in prison for seditious conspiracy and leading a failed plot to prevent the transfer of power from Trump to Biden. Plus, the secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force join to demand Sen. Tuberville (R-Ala.) to end his military hold because of his objection to the Pentagon’s abortion travel care policy. 

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Recently Hollywood writers and actors, now autoworkers could be next to walk off the job and into the picket line demanding more than just higher pay. Their union leader joins to answer if the strike will happen and what’s next for negotiations. Plus, a shift in the 2024 race as America comes off summer vacation and the candidates zero in on the first contest on the calendar. Also, China proposes a law to limit screen time for children and teens. Could it work in America? 

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The rioter who smashed in that Capitol window and another who helped organize the violent attack have been handed lengthy prison sentences. Plus, a demand for answers from grieving parents. 13 US service members were killed in the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Gold star families this week asked their leaders pointed questions. Also, reports suggest the Women’s Tennis Association is considering holding the 2023 championship in Saudi Arabia. 

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A hefty prison sentence today for a rioter in the January 6th attack as Donald Trump himself continues to stay out of jail. This as a federal judge determined that Rudy Giuliani has lost a defamation lawsuit from two Georgia election workers against him. Plus, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas finally discloses his fancy trips and jet rides paid for by a Republican megadonor. Also, Jake goes one-on-one with Hawaii’s governor in the wake of the deadly wildfires. 

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We just got a new update that Idalia is no longer a hurricane and is now a tropical storm after lashing Florida as a devastating Category 3 hurricane. The area of Florida’s Big Bend seems to have taken the biggest hit where some areas experiencing so much water in the streets that only the roofs of homes were visible. Plus, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell had another episode today where he appeared to freeze when answering questions at a news conference, prompting concerns for his health. 

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In what could be a once in a lifetime weather event for parts of Florida, Hurricane Idalia is rapidly intensifying as it makes its way through a warmer than normal Gulf of Mexico. A majority of Florida’s counties are under a state of emergency. Plus, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre joins to discuss federal support for the storm once it makes landfall. She also addresses the Biden administration negotiating prescription drug prices for Medicare and answers when Americans can expect to feel the impact of the negotiations and how much they can expect to save. 

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A tropical storm is expected to hit Florida’s Gulf Coast ahead of an expected Category 3 landfall starting Tuesday into Wednesday. Also, according to school officials, a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill faculty member was killed in a campus shooting. The school says the suspect is now in custody. Plus, the judge in Washington, DC presiding over Trump’s criminal case surrounding his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election has set a trial date for March of 2024.

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Donald Trump is now selling pictures of his mugshot on t-shirts, mugs, and other campaign gear. All eighteen of his co-defendants are now formally booked at the Fulton County jail. On Monday, Mark Meadows will make his case for a move out of Fulton County and into federal court. We examine why that move may impact all co-defendants in the Georgia indictment. Plus, Russian investigators now say they have the black box from the plane crash that likely killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the Wagner Group. 

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Trump is making his way to Georgia to surrender at the Fulton County jail. Trump has agreed to a $200,000 bond which also orders him from using social media to target co-defendants or witnesses. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is asking for the trial of Trump and the other 18 co-defendants to begin on October 23rd. We bring you live coverage and updates on Trump’s arrest.

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Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin, who attempted a mutiny against Putin two months ago, has possibly died. Russian state media says he was on the passenger list of a plane that crashed earlier today and that all passengers were killed. CNN does not yet have confirmation that Prigozhin was on that plane. Also, out of Georgia, Rudy Giuliani was just released after being arrested in Fulton County for the Georgia election case. 

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A flurry of activity in Georgia today including a brand new legal filing just moments ago from former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows asking for an emergency court order to avoid arrest. This as several of Trump’s codefendants surrendered today. Plus, eight candidates are set to face off in the first GOP presidential primary debate tomorrow and our own panel of guests join to discuss what we expect from the candidates on the national stage.  

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President Trump’s bond in Georgia has been set at $200,000 as the former president and 18 co-defendants are expected to turn themselves into the Fulton County jail by the end of the week. Plus, tropical storm Hilary is drenching California with a year’s worth of rain in a single day and 25 million people from Southern California to Idaho are now under flood watches. Also, a California store owner is shot dead over a pride flag hanging outside her clothing store. The suspected gunman is also dead. We look at what the authorities are now learning about the dispute. 

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President Biden met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol at Camp David amid concerns of Beijing and provocative behavior from North Korea. Plus, over 1,000 people are still missing after devastating wildfires leave over 100 dead in Hawaii. Also, according to sources, more negotiations over Trump’s surrender in Fulton County are to take place in person next week. 

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A federal judge has been threatened and specific contact information for Georgia grand jurors were plastered throughout right-wing websites. We examine how Donald Trump’s legal troubles are leading to further security issues and fears of violence. Also, a look at the heartbreaking accounts from Hawaii as wildfire victims are starting to find the remains of their family members. Plus, an Idaho Teacher of the Year joins to answer why she’s fleeing her classroom. 

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A proposed criminal trial date for Donald Trump in Atlanta right as the 2024 primary season kicks into high gear as CNN learns about his possible plan to turn himself in in the coming days. Plus, growing questions and outrage in Hawaii now that we learned the Maui system was tested, but not used before the wildfire which torched the historic town of Lahaina. Also, an unexpected twist for a small-town newspaper after a police raid raised alarms about freedom of the press in the United States. 

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Donald Trump now faces a cumulative 91 criminal charges after being indicted in Fulton County, Georgia in his fourth criminal indictment since leaving office. He’s one of 19 people charged in Georgia for their attempts to overturn the 2020 election results in that state. Plus, one week after the evacuations in Hawaii, new questions emerge about the warning systems. Did the wildfires make them inoperable, or did no one ever sound the alarm? 

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The grand jury in the Georgia election interference case is bused in as prosecutors lay out their evidence that Donald Trump tried to steal the state’s electoral votes. Witness testimony has been moved up from tomorrow to today as Trump attacks a key witness and prosecutors are in possession of evidence of texts messages which allegedly directly link the former president’s legal team to a voting system breach. Plus, in the aftermath of the Hawaii wildfires, we hear of government failures, failed fire hydrants, and warning sirens that didn’t go off. 

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First: Attorney General Merrick Garland makes a surprise announcement, elevating the US Attorney heading the Hunter Biden probe to special counsel status. What will this mean for the president's son? And what will this mean for the president? 

Plus: Donald Trump might be told to zip it. The judge in the 2020 election fraud case signals that she is going to be willing to restrict sensitive evidence, telling Trump's attorneys the former president's right to free speech is not absolute. 

And: The catastrophe in Hawaii continues to worsen, with historic towns gone, homes burned to the ground, and the death toll climbing. 

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New footage showing powerful flames ripping through communities in Hawaii after a wildfire strikes Maui along with Hawaii’s Big Island. The death toll rises to 36 as crews anticipate that number growing even higher. Plus, President Biden makes a deal with Iran that would include making $6 billion in Iranian funds more accessible to Tehran in exchange for five Americans’ return to the US. Also, Ecuador asks the FBI to help investigate the assassination of a presidential candidate in the country. 

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Violent and explosive wildfires fueled by strong winds from a hurricane hit parts of Hawaii. It is a situation so sudden and catastrophic that local officials say a dozen people ran into the ocean to try to escape the flames. Plus, more than a dozen people could soon be indicted as early as next week in the Georgia 2020 election interference probe. Also, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) joins to discuss how food prices, gas prices, and inflation are all on the rise as Wall Street watches for key inflation data. 

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Voters are heading to the polls in Ohio for a special election that could determine abortion rights in the state. Also, Donald Trump is defiant and back on the campaign trail this afternoon, pushing back on prosecutors who want to restrict what he can say publicly about the federal indictment. Plus, a look at the results of a brawl in Alabama after a Black employee was rushed by a group of White men.

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Lawyers for Donald Trump approach a 5:00 PM EST deadline as prosecutors push to limit what the former president can say about the federal case against him. Plus, after years of dodging the question, Gov. Ron DeSantis bluntly said “of course [Trump] lost" the 2020 election as the former president’s rival tries to reset his campaign.

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Former President Donald Trump is asking the Supreme Court to help fight his legal battles. He claims the cases against him are quote “election interference” which is the same thing he’s accused of in his third indictment. Plus, police have identified another murder victim 27 years later in the Giglo Beach killings. So, why wasn’t the suspected serial killer charged in connection with her death?

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Donald Trump is expected to head to Washington, D.C. where he will make his first appearance in federal court in connection with the January 6th riot and attempts to overthrow the 2020 election. How is the nation’s capitol preparing for his possible appearance just down the road from the site of the insurrection? And, who are Trump’s six coconspirators listed in the indictment, though not named? Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) joins for her first interview since the indictment to discuss. 

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Sources tell CNN that Trump is preparing for a possible third criminal indictment today and we’ve seen him be very active, updating people on his Truth Social account whenever there are developments. This as the federal grand jury investigating efforts by former President Trump to overturn the 2020 election finishes for the day. 

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Another Trump associate makes his first court appearance in the classified documents case in Florida. The Mar-a-Lago property manager is accused of trying to help delete security footage from Trump’s resort. While in Georgia, there are signs that we are close to a key decision in another Trump case. Plus, a search intensifies for a nurse and her child kidnapped in Haiti while the State Department orders non-emergency personnel to leave Haiti amid increasing violence. 

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Who is the key witness in the classified documents case named Trump employee number four? CNN confirms the name after he allegedly discussed surveillance camera footage on Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago property. This new identity as the former president faces new charges. Plus, a look at the political future of Senator Mitch McConnell. What his office is saying about his freeze this week in front of reporters. Also, the desperate plea from Afghans now hiding from the Taliban two years after the chaotic American withdrawal. 

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Donald Trump’s legal team sits down behind closed doors with special counsel Jack Smith. What Trump himself is saying about the meeting and his own defense. Pus, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is back on the Senate floor today after freezing in front of reporters mid-sentence. Source tell CNN the 81-year-old has fallen three times this year alone. Also, the emergency warning from America’s largest power grid as extreme heat settles in over some of the biggest cities in the country. 

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The judge placed a plea deal on hold after Hunter Biden appeared before court for failing to pay between $1.1 and $1.5 million in federal taxes before the legal deadlines. Plus, Mitch McConnell was ushered away from the microphones after freezing mid-sentence. We look at what he is saying now about that startling moment. Also, what could be House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s real reason behind floating and impeachment inquiry for Biden? A member of the GOP tells CNN it is a distraction. 

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CNN confirms that US Marine veteran and former Russian prisoner Trevor Reed was not only fighting in Ukraine but also injured in combat. Plus, college basketball standout, Bronny James, the oldest son of NBA star LeBron James, is recovering from a cardiac arrest. Also, is House Speaker McCarthy laying the groundwork for an impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged ties to his son’s business dealings? 

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Biden administration officials have grown concerned over floating barriers the Texas government has placed along the Texas-Mexico border. Plus, a new CNN exclusive to try and determine what Donald Trump said behind closed doors in the Oval Office meeting about election security that now has the attention of the special counsel. Also, protests and clashes stretch well into the night in Israel over the country’s Supreme Court powers. 

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The Trump-appointed judge in the classified documents trial has set the trial case for May after the Iowa caucuses, New Hampshire primary, and Super Tuesday. Plus, we speak with the president of Microsoft about artificial intelligence utilizing copyrighted material to write books and generate art. This as leading A.I. companies agree to outside testing of A.I. systems and other safety commitments. 

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One of the IRS whistleblowers, Joseph Ziegler, who alleged malfeasance and slow-walking in the Hunter Biden investigation joins for an exclusive interview. Plus, a look at what’s behind the success of the film Sound of Freedom.Also, massive explosions light up the night sky in Ukraine’s port city of Odessa. Why are Russians targeting that spot? 

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Trump is facing a potential third indictment as his lawyers want to know what evidence the special counsel has. How will Trump handle the invitation for him to appear before a grand jury by tomorrow? Plus, a new photo of the American soldier detained in North Korea emerges. Why did he run across the border into the hermit kingdom? Also, new footage suggests Yevgeny Prigozhin may still be alive after his revolt in Russia. 

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Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis sits down to discuss if he thinks Trump should be indicted if the special counsel finds evidence of criminality, his sweeping new military plan, US relations with China, the state of the war in Ukraine, and if he has concerns about his campaign’s ability to win the Republican nomination. Plus, a US soldier is believed to have been detained by North Korea after allegedly willfully crossing border. 

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Vladimir Putin is vowing retaliation after Ukrainian forces unleashed a pre-dawn strike on the bridge that connects Crimea to Russia. Russia has also ended a deal critical to the world’s food supply. The Black Sea deal which ensured the safe passage of ships carrying grain from Ukrainian ports expired today. Plus, Jake sits down for a one-on-one with GOP presidential candidate Asa Hutchinson to discuss his federal law enforcement proposal. 

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A suspected serial killer has been in caught by law enforcement and makes his first court appearance after being charged with the deaths of three women whose bodies were found on a Long Island beach in 2010. We examine how a car, burner phones, fake email accounts, and DNA from a piece of pizza led police to the suspect. Plus, 1,000 heat records have been shattered in the US since June and more could break this weekend. Is this the new normal? 

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President Joe Biden on Thursday said he doesn't believe the war in Ukraine will drag on for years. Plus, a look at how Ukrainians plan to deploy US cluster bombs. Also, after months of Sen. Tuberville (R-Ala.) blocking military promotions, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tells CNN in an exclusive interview the blockade by Tuberville has become a threat to national security. And, the Secret Service says they could not figure out who dropped a baggy of cocaine inside the White House. 

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FBI Director Christopher Wray faces off with his toughest critics during a heated congressional hearing in which he answered questions regarding the handling of the investigations into former President Donald Trump and the son of President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden. Plus, during the NATO summit, more promises are made to Ukraine but President Zelenksy is not getting what he really wanted, entry into NATO. Also, a new report reveals it’s not just Uncle Sam who is getting your sensitive tax information. 

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President Zelensky appears at the NATO summit, requesting membership in the alliance as Turkey agree’s to back Sweden’s NATO bid. Plus, a new grand jury has been selected to decide if Donald Trump will be indicted a third time for his alleged role in trying to overturn the 2020 election. Also, as extreme whether hits the northeast United States, catastrophic flooding swamps Vermont. 

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The 31 member nations in NATO will meet to discuss Ukraine potentially joining the alliance. Plus, the special counsel is accusing Donald Trump’s right-hand man of trying to delay the federal prosecution. Also, a look at the once in a thousand year rainfall that has left devastating flooding in parts of America. 

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First: For the first time since the start of Russia's war, Ukraine will be getting an aid package from the US that includes cluster munitions - bombs that are banned by most countries. President Biden gave CNN an exclusive interview where he tried to defend that controversial decision. 

Then: The special counsel zeroes in on an Oval Office meeting during Donald Trump's final days in office, a meeting described as nuts. We bring you exclusive CNN reporting on what it tells us about the investigation into that January 6 investigation and a possible third indictment of Mr. Trump. 

Plus: He survived the Taliban and decades of war working as an interpreter in Afghanistan only to be shot and killed while driving a lift in the United States. The latest on the search for suspects. 

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First: Walt Nauta, the Trump aide who allegedly hid boxes of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago before the FBI arrived pleads not guilty, despite the Justice Department saying he was caught on surveillance video hiding those very boxes. 2024 Republican presidential challenger Chris Christie joins the show to discuss. 

Plus: The Kremlin sends in their officers to sniff out Wagner mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in St. Petersburg, Russia. They find guns, cash, gold and even wigs. 

And: Federal charges are brought against the man prosecutors say had weapons outside the Obama's DC home. Did a social media post from Donald Trump provide him with the Obama's home address? 

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First: Lab tests confirm a baggy of white powder found just steps from the West Wing Sunday was filled with cocaine. Now the question is: Who dropped it and set off a hazmat evacuation. 

Then: Gun violence in America reaches a new level of horror, with 356 mass shootings so far this year ... a stunning 15 of them just this past holiday weekend. We explore why these tragic shootings always seem to spike in the summer months and what can be done about it. 

Plus: A federal judge slaps the Biden administration with new restrictions on social media, ruling it cannot decide what is and is not misinformation. 

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First: From iowa to New Hampshire to the White House, 2024 presidential candidates hit parades, kissed babies, and tried to make their case face to face with voters ... with one notable exception. 

Plus: Three more mass shootings in Texas, Indiana and Philadelphia are the latest sites of a uniquely American tragedy. 

And: Hidden cameras in the women's locker room exposed a troubling pattern of sexism and abuse. In this case, it was the police behind the offense. 

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Today on The Lead: CNN is on the front lines, where Ukraine's fight for freedom is in the trenches. Meanwhile, the CIA director says why he thinks instability in Moscow is creating a unique moment. Then, a holiday block party in Baltimore turns tragic. Now the hunt is on for shooters who opened fire, killing two and injuring nearly 30 others. Plus, can cows help curb the climate crisis? You might have heard their possible gas problems, but this time cattle may be eating their way to a solution. 

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40 million Americans will not get the student loan forgiveness President Biden promised them after the Supreme Court rejects his plan. Then, a look at the future of anti-discrimination laws after a key ruling on LGBTQ rights and freedom of speech involving a wedding website designer and the state of Colorado. Plus, a look at traveling this upcoming holiday weekend. 

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The Supreme Court rejects race-based affirmative action in college admissions in a landmark decision. One of the attorneys that argued in support of affirmative action before the court joins to discuss. Plus, documents shared exclusively with CNN show a Russian general, whose whereabouts is currently unknown, was a secret VIP member of the Wagner mercenary group. Also, Mike Pence sits down with Erin Burnett in Ukraine during his surprise trip. 

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Investigators from the special counsel’s office are in Atlanta to interview Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger about Donald Trump’s alleged interference in the 2020 election. Plus, Vladimir Putin is greeted by a swarm of supporters during a rare surprise crowd appearance. This comes hours after the reported target of Prigozhin’s failed Russian revolt is revealed. Also, giant pieces of the destroyed Titan submersible are recovered and are now above the surface. 

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A city center in eastern Ukraine is rocked by a missile strike. Why this target and why now? Plus, what persuaded Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner boss, to stop his apparent revolt in Russia? The leader, now in Belarus, has his version of events as Vladimir Putin puts his own spin on what happened. 

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Putin makes his first public comments, claiming that any attempts of internal mutiny will end in defeat and makes an offer to Wagner fighters. The bombastic leader of the Wagner Group breaks his silence and gives the real reason he claims why his forces were heading to the Russian capitol. Plus, CNN is along the front lines with Ukraine’s unique opportunity to capitalize on the chaos. 

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What went so tragically wrong and caused the submersible filled with five people to implode near the wreckage site of the Titanic? Plus, fake electors compelled to testify as a special counsel investigation looking into efforts to overturn the 2020 election heats up. Also, 2024 Republican hopefuls converge on a conservative conference and to separate themselves on one of the most divisive issues of this election cycle. 

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All five passengers on the missing Titanic submersible are believed dead after missing debris is found on the ocean floor turning operations from rescue to recovery. In the wake of this tragedy, CNN is going to examine deep sea exploration and the inherent dangers that come along with these expeditions. 

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More reports of noises from the ocean in the desperate search for a missing sub that vanished during a deep sea exploration. Plus, another U.S. Supreme Court justice is defending an undisclosed luxury trip paid for by a billionaire. Also, was all the work by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Beijing undone when President Biden called Xi Jinping a dictator in an off the cuff remark? 

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Hunter Biden strikes a deal on a felony charge and agrees to plead guilty on two misdemeanors. Plus, a trial for Trump is set to begin in less than two months as the former president argues his own defense on national TV. Also, the urgent underwater rescue mission for a missing submarine is running out of time.

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An underwater expedition to see the wreckage of the Titanic is now a race to find and save the tourists and crew members on board the vessel. The mission is ramping up to prevent a second tragedy at that site. Plus, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reports back progress after a high stakes talk with China. We examine the areas of success and the major point of lingering tension. Also, a look at the judge’s order that restricts what Donald Trump can and cannot reveal about his federal indictment. 

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U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland rebukes the Minneapolis Police Department after a multi-year investigation found systemic abuses and discrimination by police. Then, the Tree of Life shooter has been found guilty on all counts and now faces the possibility of the death penalty. Plus, relentless fights in the streets as testimonies detail atrocities by a Wagner-backed militia in Sudan.

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Judge Aileen Cannon sets a new deadline for federal prosecutors and for Trump’s lawyers. Why these decisions could have a real impact on the timing of the case against Donald Trump. We speak with former Republican U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales about reports that Donald Trump rejected a settlement with the DOJ. Plus, several agencies of the U.S. government are victims of a global cyberattack and this means your medical records, banking information, and personal information may have been exposed.

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Did Donald Trump just publicly admit to the very crimes he was arrested for a mere few hours after he was arrested and arraigned? Plus, an up close look at the front lines of Ukraine’s counteroffensive and the items Ukrainian troops say are key to defeating the Russians. Also, if inflation is supposedly easing, why does it seem like every trip to the grocery store is getting more expensive?

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Donald Trump leaves the Miami courthouse after pleading not guilty to all 37 counts in the indictment related to his alleged handling of classified documents. The indictment makes him the first former president in the history of the United States to be a criminal defendant in a federal prosecution. This may be one of several indictments Donald Trump may face in the coming weeks, such as his efforts to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia and his role in January 6th. CNN provides in-depth analysis and detailed coverage of this momentous event. 

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Former President Donald Trump has arrived in Florida for his court date. Tomorrow, he will be the first person to have held that office to be arraigned on federal criminal charges. This as growing concerns emerge from law enforcement about Trump supporters amassing at the courthouse. Plus, one of the busiest highways in America shuts down in both directions after a section of I-95 collapses in Philadelphia.

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The federal indictment against former President Donald Trump and one of his associates has been unsealed. Trump now faces 31 counts related to his handling of national defense documents after he left the presidency. His aide, Walt Nauta, faces six counts, including several obstruction- and concealment-related charges. Special counsel Jack Smith said his office will seek a "speedy trial" while urging Americans to read the indictment to understand the "gravity of the crimes charged."

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A majority of the Supreme Court has ordered Alabama to redraw their states' congressional map to allow an additional black majority congressional district, giving more opportunities for minority voters to elect the representative of their choice. Also, Donald Trump has been told he’s a target of a federal investigation ahead of what could be his next legal fight. Plus, major cities in the U.S. are elevating their alert as the air quality is getting worse.

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Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie joins to discuss why he’s running for president and why Donald Trump has disqualified himself from the White House. Plus, from Canada all the way down to the Carolinas, thick and hazy wildfire smoke is engulfing much of the east coast. Also, a look at Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in golf, boxing, and entertainment.

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An explosion destroys a dam in Ukraine with devastating flooding and now thousands of people are being evacuated as Ukraine and Russia blame each other for the apparent sabotage. Then, how the drained pool and a flooded server room at Mar-a-Lago could play into the investigation of Trump’s handling of classified documents. Also, Prince Harry is fighting two legal battles. One case is in the United Kingdom against a British newspaper and the other is a case here in the United States which you may not have heard about yet. 

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Military fighter jets go supersonic when a private plane doesn’t respond while flying near the nation’s Capitol. Also, Apple just released a virtual reality headset which costs thousands of dollars. What are people using it for and who is going to pay the cost? Plus, former Vice President Mike Pence just filed paperwork to officially declare his candidacy for president as Chris Christie is expected to also enter the race. Then, Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) and Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.) join to discuss the significance of a Ukrainian counteroffensive and a new bill to help Afghan allies.

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Two sources say Donald Trump’s attorneys have not found the classified document described by Trump on the audiotape federal prosecutors got a hold of, even after a subpoena. This as the Justice Department closes its investigation into the possible mishandling of classified documents found at former Vice President Mike Pence's home. Then, a Texas man reaches out to police to tell them that he killed two people. Now, investigators say he’s a suspected serial killer who may be behind a dozen other murders. Plus, the nation’s fastest growing city is now limiting new housing construction because it is running out of a key resource: water.

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Donald Trump is on the campaign trial in Iowa and just weighed in on CNN’s reporting that the special counsel has a recording of Trump acknowledging that he kept classified material after leaving the White House. Trump’s former attorney joins to discuss. Plus, new federal election interference charges are filed against a Republican state lawmaker candidate accused of shooting his gun at the homes of several Democratic officials.

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Sources tell CNN that Donald Trump not only knew he kept classified documents, but talked about them in a meeting captured on tape. Plus, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) of the Budget Committee joins to discuss the debt limit bill and his efforts to amend Sen. Manchin’s (D-W.Va.) gas pipeline provision. Also, according to sources, two more Republican candidates are planning on announcing their presidential bid, including Mike Pence. 

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Legislation to raise the debt limit is facing its first hurdle as a new problem for Speaker McCarthy has emerged, the House Freedom Caucus, including some members threatening to oust McCarthy over the deal. Plus, Russia’s capital city is attacked and Putin blames Ukraine. Also, DeSantis is stepping up attacks against Trump as he hits the campaign trail.

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The debt limit negotiations finish with a written bill just days until the U.S. runs out of money. President Biden and House Speaker McCarthy are rushing to sell the bill to their parties. Plus, an attack on Ukraine’s capitol city hours after a nighttime assault. Also, on this Memorial Day, an emotional reunion as a group of Vietnam veterans are reunited for the first time in decades after being prisoners of war held captive in bamboo tiger cages.

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One day after the six-week abortion ban went into effect in South Carolina, a judge has ordered the law to be put on hold. Plus, we are on standby for another member of the Oath Keepers to be sentenced for their role in the January 6th capitol insurrection. Then, the horrifying moments after a man opened the door of a jet mid-flight. 

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The leader of the Oath Keepers has been handed down the biggest sentence yet in the attempt to steal the 2020 election. Plus, a stunning new chapter in the classified documents saga with sensitive material moved at Mar-a-Lago just one day before FBI agents showed up looking for it. Apparently, people in Mar-a-Lago were staging dress rehearsals for such a moment. Also, Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) joins to discus the latest in the debt ceiling negotiations after the House recesses without a deal.

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Tina Turner, the resilient signer hailed by many as the “Queen of Rock and Roll,” died at the age of 83. Plus, Gov. Ron DeSantis is less than two hours away before using Twitter to announce his 2024 presidential bid. Also, with only eight days until the U.S.’s possible default, negotiators on both sides are going back to the drawing board to try and avoid economic catastrophe. 

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Former President Trump has learned the start date for his criminal trial in New York for the Stormy Daniels hush money case and it will be right in the middle of the presidential primary season next year. Plus, a look at the charges facing a 19-year-old accused of driving a U-Haul into the security barrier at the White House. According to the Secret Service, inside the truck was duct tape, a backpack, and a Nazi flag. Plus, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis turns to one of the most controversial CEOs in the world to help officially launch his 2024 presidential bid on social media. Then, Stacey Abrams joins Jake to discuss writing fiction while addressing serious issues.

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President Biden and House Speaker McCarthy are meeting tonight to try and avoid a default as we examine what may be on and off the negotiating table. Plus, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) sets his sights on the White House after announcing his bid for the 2024 presidency. Also, according to sources, Donald Trump asked whether he could push back against Justice Department efforts to recover classified documents still in his possession during conversations with his lawyer over compliance with a federal subpoena.

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First: Your elected leaders have taken a pause to try to prevent economic catastrophe. What's seen as a major snag in debt negotiations puts everything at risk. 

Plus: Joe Biden meets with G7 leaders in Japan where Ukraine leader Zelensky arrives with a big ask. 
 
And: A new name enters the 2024 GOP presidential race, making the case why Donald Trump should not be the Republican nominee. 

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The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that tech giants can remain relatively unaccountable for what people post on their sites, not even if it’s a terrorist organization. Plus, Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) and her office never mentioned that she had swelling of the brain. What a sources tells CNN about the Senator's previously undisclosed health condition and what that means for the millions of citizens in California. Also, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore joins to address the NRA suing him after he signed gun safety legislation. 

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The National Archives plans to share with the special counsel 16 records showing Trump and advisers knew of the declassification process, undercutting Trump’s claim that the documents he took were automatically declassified. Plus, paparazzi follow Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in New York in a scene described as near catastrophic. Also, a vote on taking action against Republican Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) after his many lies, a federal indictment, and him pleading guilty to a crime in another country.

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President Biden just cancelled the second part of his overseas trip. Is this a sign that the debt ceiling negotiations are going poorly? Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) joins to answer if Republicans have specified where spending cuts would occur. Plus, he’s known for pushing Kremlin propaganda. But, now the head of the Wagner Group is claiming a U.S. citizen was killed in the battle for Bakhmut. Was he correct? Also, congressional testimony today calling to regulate artificial intelligence amid fears that malicious actors will use this technology to commit fraud on a global scale.

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After three years, Special Counsel John Durham finally released his report into whether the FBI had a legitimate reason to investigate Trump in 2016. Durham’s report concluded the FBI should never have launched a full investigation into connections between Donald Trump’s campaign and Russia. The report also states the FBI used different standards when weighing concerns about alleged election interference regarding Hillary Clinton. Also, a congressional staffer and intern were both attacked by a man with a metal baseball bat.

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With border crossings at an all time high, the Biden administration warns times ahead will likely get even worse now that a key immigration policy has expired. Plus, a U.S. Marine veteran surrenders for manslaughter charges after holding a homeless man in a chokehold on a New York City subway. Also, Oklahoma’s governor is trying to defund the state’s PBS station, home to programs such as Sesame Street and Mister Rogers, claiming some programming is over-sexualizing children.

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The House voted to pass a sweeping GOP border security bill after Republican leaders worked to lock down votes and win over holdouts within their own party. The GOP border bill is expected not to pass in the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House. Plus, Trump’s 2024 campaign playbook seems to be a repeat of falsehoods and indecency from 2020. How not only Democrats but also Republicans are expressing revulsion at things he said at the CNN town hall.

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There is just one day left until Title 42, the Trump-era pandemic policy, expires. Introduced by Trump and adopted by Biden, the policy allows border officials to expel nearly all migrants without giving them a chance to seek asylum. Then, Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) George Santos pleads not guilty to 13 federal charges, including fraud and money laundering. Also, Republicans flag what they call shady deals as they lay out their case against President Biden’s family. Is there evidence behind these allegations?

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A jury in New York has found Donald Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll. The jury awarded the former magazine columnist nearly $5 million in damages to be paid by Mr. Trump. CNN’s Chief Legal Analyst Laura Coates joins to break down the unprecedented trial. Plus, Rep. George Santos has been charged by the Justice Department according to sources familiar with the matter.

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The gunman behind the Texas mall massacre had been removed from the U.S. military for mental health issues as we learn more about the gunman’s extremist background. Plus, just in time for summer travel, a new proposed rule would give you a refund if you’re bumped from your next flight. Also, Russian air strikes blanket Ukraine as the war-torn country prepares for a spring offensive.

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Rather interesting comments are revealed today from the former president of the United States as the world finally gets to see what Mr. Trump had to say about E. Jean Carroll’s rape allegations. Plus, the Russian mercenary Wagner Group says they will leave the war-torn city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. Also, the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily halts the execution date of Oklahoma death row inmate Richard Glossip.

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