Ep 1. Jared Kushner Interview

In the first episode of the second season of the HBO documentary series "Axios," host Mike Allen sits down with Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser, for a wide-ranging interview about his role in the administration and his vision for the future.

The interview is conducted in Kushner's West Wing office, a sparse and sun-filled space that he says he intentionally keeps free of clutter. Allen begins by asking Kushner about his portfolio, which includes everything from Middle East peace to criminal justice reform to overhauling the federal government.

Kushner says he never imagined he would be working in the White House, but that he feels a sense of duty to help the country. He describes his approach as "pragmatic" and focused on finding solutions that are "in the best interest of the American people."

Allen presses Kushner on the controversy surrounding his security clearance, which was initially denied by career officials due to concerns about his foreign contacts and financial ties. Kushner says that he went through a "lengthy and extensive" process to ultimately receive the clearance, but that he never discussed classified information with foreign officials or used his position for personal gain.

The conversation then turns to Kushner's work in the Middle East, where he has been a key figure in Trump's efforts to broker a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians. Kushner says that he has spent countless hours speaking with leaders from both sides and that he remains optimistic about the prospects for a deal.

"We've put forward a very detailed proposal that addresses all the core issues," Kushner says. "It's a realistic plan that we think can bring peace and security to the region."

Allen also asks Kushner about his recent efforts to overhaul the criminal justice system, which have garnered bipartisan support. Kushner says that his personal experience with the system, including seeing his own father go to prison, motivated him to work on the issue.

"We've got this system that's really not working for a lot of people," Kushner says. "We need to make sure that people who break the law are punished, but we also need to make sure that when they come out, they have a chance to succeed."

The interview then turns to Kushner's relationship with his father-in-law, which has been the subject of much speculation and scrutiny. Kushner says that he and Trump have a "great relationship" and that they communicate frequently on a range of issues.

"We don't always agree on everything, but we have a lot of trust and respect for each other," Kushner says.

Overall, the interview provides a rare and candid glimpse into Kushner's life and work in the Trump administration. While some may disagree with his politics or methods, it's clear that Kushner is deeply committed to serving his country and making a difference in the world.