Ep 165. August 13, 2018

On August 13, 2018, PBS Newshour aired its 165th episode of the 2018 season. The episode covered a variety of current events, including the ongoing political turmoil in Venezuela, the Trump Administration's controversial rollback of vehicle emission standards, and the recent surge of violence in Chicago.

The episode began with an in-depth report on the state of affairs in Venezuela, where hyperinflation and political unrest have left the country in a state of crisis. Correspondent Nick Schifrin provided insight into the political struggles between President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, as well as the daily struggles of average Venezuelans as they try to find food and basic necessities in a failing economy. Interviews with local residents and experts provided a nuanced perspective on the complexities of the situation.

The next segment of the show delved into the Trump Administration's decision to roll back vehicle emission standards, a move that many environmentalists fear will have serious detrimental effects on air quality and public health. Correspondent William Brangham reported on the arguments for and against the rollback, including interviews with auto industry representatives and environmental experts. The segment also touched on the potential legal challenges to the rollback, as many states are expected to sue the Trump Administration over the change.

The show then turned to the mounting violence in Chicago, where over 60 people were shot and 6 killed during a single weekend in early August. Correspondent Megan Thompson reported on the various factors contributing to the surge in violence, including a lack of trust between the police force and the community, ongoing gang activity, and the availability of guns. She also highlighted the efforts of community organizations and activists who are working to address the root causes of the violence and promote healing in affected neighborhoods.

Other segments of the episode included a report on the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis, specifically focusing on how the crisis has affected Syrian children who are living in refugee camps; a profile of musician Leon Bridges, who is gaining recognition for his soulful, vintage-inspired sound; and a conversation with author John Scalzi about his latest science fiction novel.

Throughout the episode, the PBS Newshour anchors provided contextual information and insightful commentary on the various news stories, demonstrating a commitment to presenting fair and balanced reporting. The show's blend of investigative journalism, analytical reporting, and human interest stories makes it a valuable resource for viewers seeking to stay informed about current events.