The Arena with Kasie Hunt

Major Sticking Points Remain as U.S., Iran Negotiate Peace Deal

U.S. officials tell CNN they are optimistic that negotiations with Iran will hammer out two major sticking points: Iran’s existing nuclear material and its frozen assets. Plus, an interview with Democratic Congressman Jake Auchincloss. And—Pope Leo XIV’s new message on the moral dangers of artificial intelligence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Tulsi Gabbard Resigning as Director of National Intelligence

This afternoon, President Trump announced that Tulsi Gabbard has tendered her resignation as the director of national intelligence effective June 30th. The president also announced that Aaron Lukas will serve as the acting director of national intelligence.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Trump Agenda Derailed by Senate GOP Revolt Over $1.8B DOJ Fund

Kasie Hunt talks to the panel after the Senate leaves Washington, with Republicans saying they were blindsided by the Justice Department’s announcement of an "anti-weaponization" fund. Rep. Don Bacon weighs in. Rahm Emanuel discusses what is in --and crucially, not in-- the DNC's 2024 "autopsy" report. Plus, a committee stacked with Trump loyalists approves his arch design. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Officers Who Defended Capitol Sue to Stop DOJ’s New $1.8B Fund

Kasie Hunt talks to the panel after two January 6th officers attempt to block the rioters who assaulted them from receiving payouts from the administration's new "anti-weaponization" fund. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, who recently pressed acting attorney general Todd Blanche over the fund, weighs in. President Trump continues his endorsement winning streak, though his involvement could complicate his agenda in the Senate. Plus, the Justice Department indicts former Cuban leader Raul Castro for his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Vance Won't Rule Out Compensating Jan. 6 Rioters Who Assaulted Cops

Kasie Hunt talks to the panel after Vice President JD Vance and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche wouldn't rule out compensating Jan. 6 rioters who assaulted cops through the administration's new "anti-weaponization" fund. Republican Senators say they are "disappointed" in President Trump's long-awaited endorsement in the Texas GOP Senate primary. Voters from coast to coast head to polls to cast their ballots in crucial primaries that will shape the 2026 midterms. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffenspereger, who is running for governor, weigh in on the races in their states. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]