PBS Newshour Season 2019 Episode 39 February 22, 2019

On February 22nd, 2019, PBS Newshour Season 2019 Episode 39 covered a variety of topics and news stories from around the world.

The episode began with a segment on the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. Correspondent Nick Schifrin reported on the latest developments in the political and humanitarian crisis, including the arrival of US humanitarian aid at the border, and the violent clashes that ensued between Venezuelan security forces and protesters.

Next, the episode covered the controversy surrounding the Jussie Smollett case. Smollett, an actor on the TV show "Empire", had reported being the victim of a hate crime in Chicago, but questions soon arose about the veracity of his claims. Correspondent Lisa Desjardins reported on the latest details of the investigation and the reactions from the actor's supporters and detractors.

The third segment of the episode focused on a lawsuit filed by the DNC against the Trump campaign, Russian intelligence, and Wikileaks over the alleged interference in the 2016 election. Correspondent Yamiche Alcindor spoke with a legal expert about the implications of the lawsuit and the evidence that has been presented so far.

The fourth segment covered the recent mass shooting at a manufacturing plant in Aurora, Illinois. Correspondent John Yang reported on the latest developments in the investigation and spoke with community members about their reactions to the tragedy.

The episode then turned to international news, with a report on the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Correspondent Jane Ferguson spoke with Yemeni citizens about the impact of the war on their daily lives, and about their hopes for peace and a return to stability.

The final segment of the episode explored a new effort by the US government to stem the flow of prescription drug abuse. Correspondent William Brangham spoke with doctors and experts about the opioid crisis, and about a new plan to encourage physicians to prescribe fewer opioids and more non-opioid painkillers.

Overall, PBS Newshour Season 2019 Episode 39 was a comprehensive and in-depth look at some of the most pressing news stories of the day, both at home and abroad. From political controversies to tragic events to international conflicts, the episode offered thoughtful analysis and compelling reporting on a wide range of important issues.