Ep 15. January 21, 2020

On January 21, 2020, PBS NewsHour aired the fifteenth episode of their 2020 season. This episode tackled the pressing issues of domestic and international affairs, providing insightful analyses and interviews with experts in their respective fields.

The episode opened with coverage of the ongoing impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, which had just begun in the Senate. Correspondent Lisa Desjardins reported on the debate over whether to call additional witnesses to testify, including former National Security Advisor John Bolton, and the charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress leveled against the president.

Next, the show turned to the latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in China. Correspondent Nick Schifrin provided an update on the spread of the virus, which at the time had infected hundreds of people and claimed several lives. Schifrin also examined the global response to the crisis and the measures being taken to contain the outbreak.

The program then delved into the world of politics, featuring a discussion with former presidential candidate and senator John Kerry about his foreign policy agenda and thoughts on the 2020 presidential race. Kerry weighed in on his concerns about President Trump's approach to international relations and the importance of combating climate change.

The episode also covered developments on the global stage, including a report on the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran and the fallout from the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane by the Iranian military. PBS NewsHour correspondents examined the implications of the situation for the region and the international community.

The show then shifted its focus to domestic news, featuring a segment on the ongoing debate over healthcare policy in the United States. Correspondent Amna Nawaz examined the various proposals being discussed by Democratic presidential candidates, including Medicare for All and a public option, and the potential impact of these plans on American voters.

Finally, the episode featured a conversation with poet Claudia Rankine about her latest work and the role of poetry in today's society. Rankine discussed the power of language and how it can help to challenge and change the status quo.

Overall, the January 21, 2020 episode of PBS NewsHour provided a diverse range of topics and insights into the most pressing issues of our time. From politics and healthcare to international affairs and poetry, the show offered a balanced and informative look at the world around us.