Meet the Press Season 2016 Episode 29 Jul 17

Meet the Press is a weekly news-analysis show that airs on NBC. Hosted by Chuck Todd, the show features interviews with prominent politicians, newsmakers, and experts on a range of current events topics. In episode 29 of season 2016, which aired on July 17, 2016, Chuck Todd welcomed a panel of analysts to discuss the week's political news.

The episode begins with Todd discussing the fallout from the previous week's Republican National Convention, which had just ended. He notes that the party appeared to be divided on several key issues, including immigration and trade, and that the speeches given by both Donald Trump and his running mate, Mike Pence, had been criticized by members of their own party. Todd then introduces his panel of guests: Republican strategist Mike Murphy, MSNBC host Joy Ann Reid, Washington Post columnist David Ignatius, and New York Times correspondent Helene Cooper.

The panel begins by discussing the selection of Pence as Trump's running mate, with Murphy arguing that Pence's conservative credentials could reassure skeptical Republicans. Reid, on the other hand, suggests that Pence's record on social issues could alienate voters who support LGBTQ rights and women's health. The conversation then turns to the recent police shootings of black men in Baton Rouge and Minneapolis, and the subsequent shooting of police officers in Dallas. The panel agrees that these events have brought issues of race and policing to the forefront of the national conversation, and that both major party candidates will need to address them in their campaigns.

Next, Todd asks the panel to assess the effectiveness of the Republican convention, with Murphy arguing that it failed to unify the party or offer a clear message. Cooper suggests that Trump's focus on law and order could resonate with some voters, but Ignatius notes that it was unlikely to win over minority voters. The discussion then turns to the upcoming Democratic National Convention, with Reid predicting that the party would emphasize unity and diversity, while Cooper suggests that Hillary Clinton would need to motivate young voters who were drawn to Bernie Sanders during the primary season.

As the episode continues, Todd asks the panel to weigh in on a variety of topics, including the FBI's decision not to recommend charges against Clinton in the email server investigation, Trump's comments on NATO and Russia, and the ongoing turmoil in Turkey. Murphy argues that the email controversy has damaged Clinton's credibility, while Ignatius suggests that Trump's admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin could be a liability for his campaign. Cooper notes that many Americans may not be fully aware of the situation in Turkey, and that it is significant both for its strategic importance and for the country's attempts to maintain democracy in the face of a coup attempt.

Throughout the episode, Todd challenges the panelists to consider different perspectives and provide nuanced analysis, while encouraging them to be candid and forthright in their opinions. The result is a lively and informative discussion that touches on some of the most pressing issues of the day.

In summary, Meet the Press episode 29 of season 2016 offers a thoughtful analysis of the political landscape in the summer of 2016. The panelists engage in a wide-ranging conversation on topics including the Republican and Democratic conventions, police shootings, email controversies, and international events. As always, Chuck Todd provides incisive commentary and asks probing questions, while the guests of the show offer diverse perspectives and lively opinions. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the news and events that shaped the 2016 presidential election, this episode of Meet the Press is essential viewing.