Ep 49. December 14, 2018

On December 14, 2018, the long-running news program Washington Week aired its forty-ninth episode of the 2018 season. The show, hosted by award-winning journalist Robert Costa, centered around the top news stories of the week in politics and government.

The episode opened with a discussion of the ongoing controversy surrounding the 2018 midterm elections, specifically the allegations of voter fraud in North Carolina's 9th Congressional District and the subsequent decision to hold a new election. Panelists analyzed the impact of the scandal on the integrity of American democracy and the potential consequences for future elections.

The program then turned to the escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, with panelists examining the roots of the conflict and the prospects for a resolution. They explored the ways in which the Trump administration's tariffs and other policies were affecting American businesses and consumers, with a particular focus on the agricultural sector.

Next, the show delved into the latest developments in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Panelists analyzed the implications of recent revelations about Paul Manafort and Michael Cohen and the potential legal and political ramifications for President Donald Trump. They also discussed the role of special counsel Robert Mueller and what the future might hold for his probe.

Later in the program, the panelists turned their attention to the ongoing debate over immigration policy. Discussion centered on the Trump administration's controversial policies regarding the separation of families at the border, the fate of DACA recipients, and the potential for a government shutdown over funding for a border wall.

Finally, the episode concluded with a conversation about the evolving role of women in American politics. The panelists discussed the record-breaking number of women elected to Congress in the 2018 midterms and the potential impact of their presence on policy and governance. They also explored the significance of the #MeToo movement and the ways in which it was transforming the political and cultural landscape.

Throughout the episode, the panelists offered thoughtful analysis and expert insights on the week's top news stories, drawing on their diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The show provided a comprehensive and nuanced look at the complex political and social issues facing the country in December 2018, offering viewers a much-needed forum for informed discussion and debate.