Political News Packages
Armed with professional equipment and a keen focus on framing and video production skills, we present stories ranging from the grassroots of small-town politics to the global stage. Stay engaged with our graphics-focused political news packages and uncover the latest developments in the political landscape through concise and informative news segments.
Will Roberts
Who's Speaking?
The Speaker of the House is one of the most powerful positions in American Government. In 2023, the House has seen two Speakers: Rep. Kevin McCarthy and Rep. Mike Johnson. Will Roberts relays the historical context of the position of the Speaker, the importance of the role, and how Rep. Johnson will act as the Speaker of the House.
Claire Leibowitz
D.C. & Plan B
With tensions on the pro-life vs. pro-choice political debate increasing, how do both sides feel about emergency contraception? Commonly known as the morning after pill, the medication is over-the-counter and prevents the sperm from implanting onto the egg, while delaying ovulation. This package interviews Maddy Nizolek, the President of Foggy Bottom Plan B, Aleia Mays, a Director of Education for Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, and Father John Benson of The Cathedral of St. Matthew.
Flannery Dunn
The D.C. Special Education Hub
Schools nationwide have reported a shortage of special educators, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This, along with the education gap created by the COVID-19 pandemic, has increased the already existing obstacles for students with intellectual disabilities. The Special Education Hub was created out of a realized necessity of a centralized resource for families of children with special needs. Specifically, in a post-pandemic schooling environment, where disparities remain between general education and special education. This package interviews Trianna Downing, who serves as the Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator for the Hub.
Rachel Garton
Stamped: A NC Banned Book Review
Banned books are nothing new, but education in the state of North Carolina is becoming increasingly restrictive. Ranked last in the country for K-12 funding and 32nd overall for overall quality in K-12 public education, there is room for improvement in the state. However, in New Hanover County, some residents are putting their foot down after the Board of Education banned the book “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. Previously taught within the AP curriculum, the board is now opting for a more “balanced” book to take its place. This story investigates how those in the city are reacting to this ban.
Ayah Mahana
Resilience
Since October 7th, 2023, more than 20,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed. There has been an uproar by people around the world calling for an immediate cease fire. Resilience discusses the growing Palestinian solidarity movement, using the monumental March for Palestine demonstration in Washington, D.C. on November 4th, 2023 as a basis for the conversation. The video features three protesters, discussing their relationship and interpretation of the movement as well as expert commentary by George Washington University Professor William Youmans.
David Ruff
Trans Art as Resistance Against Rising Hate
This episode delves into the inspiring stories of Laya Monarez and Cooper Joslin, artists in the Washington, D.C. trans community, who are turning to art as a form of resistance against the increasing anti-trans hate and legislation. As discriminatory bills cast shadows nationwide, follow the journey of these two creatives as they use their work to challenge stereotypes and build bridges of understanding. From thought-provoking pieces to political advocacy, witness the transformative power of art in the hands of a community determined to break down barriers and foster inclusivity.
Andrea Serra
Where's My Vote?
What's going on in Guatemala? This episode unravels the nation's historical anti-corruption endeavors, the controversial removal of CICIG, and the challenges faced by a progressive president-elect currently under suspension by the attorney general. I interview Ken Baeza, who sheds light on the gaps in political and educational awareness, and Sebastien Vidal, a former banker providing insights into economic pressures and monopolies. "Where's My Vote?" seeks answers to the pressing question: Where is the voice of the people in Guatemala's democratic journey?"
Avery Davis
Mayor Bowser Addresses Workplace Harassment, Post-Falcicchio
In Spring Mayor Muriel Bowser’s right-hand man, John Falcicchio was found guilty of the sexual harassment of two victims. Now, a new sexual harassment policy has been released by Mayor Muriel Bowser. We delve into this policy as Political Scientist Nicole Bartels discusses whether the changes made were sufficient and whether the policy was released with enough urgency.
Layla Nayfeh
Censorship of Palestinian Students
Palestinian student censorship
The Students for Justice in Palestine and the Museum of the Palestinian People speak to censorship in the U.S.