Morning Joe: CIA Says Iran’s Nuclear Program Has Been Severely Damaged
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

In the June 26, 2025 episode of Morning Joe, hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, along with guest Richard Haas, delve into pivotal political developments both domestically and internationally. The discussion ranges from a surprising upset in New York City's mayoral race to significant shifts in Iran's nuclear capabilities, reflecting the show's commitment to providing in-depth analysis of the day's most pressing issues.

1. New York City Mayoral Race: Zoran Mamdani's Upset Victory

The episode opens with a surprising development in New York City's Democratic mayoral primary. The 33-year-old Senate Assemblyman Zoran Mamdani has emerged as an unexpected frontrunner, overtaking long-time favorites backed by prominent figures like former Governors Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams.

Jonathan Lemere highlights Mamdani’s grassroots success:

"He was a complete no name, an unheralded 33-year-old assemblyman who simply caught fire. [...] He was tireless. He adapted social media. He spoke with real lift and energy, enthusiasm. He vanquished stunningly former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is the heavy favorite going into this race supported by a lot of wealthy donors and Democratic establishment." ([00:32])

Richard Haas discusses the implications for the Democratic Party:

"He's also a really good political athlete, just in terms of sheer talent. Also really mobilized younger kids living around the city. [...] The real question is to what extent is he prepared to tack towards the center? Will he do so without losing his base?" ([04:15])

Katty Kay adds context on the national reaction:

"He ran an exciting, we haven't seen one of those in a while. [...] He's taken a shot with somebody who has very charismatic political skills." ([26:56])

The hosts explore whether Mamdani's victory signals a shift toward left-wing economic populism within the Democratic Party and its potential impact on national politics, especially in the upcoming midterm elections.

2. CIA Assessment on Iran’s Nuclear Program

A significant portion of the episode centers on the CIA's recent intelligence report indicating severe damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure following the United States' precision strikes.

Jonathan Lemere reports:

"The President said, 'America’s bombs simply obliterated Tehran's nuclear capabilities.'" ([05:55])

Katty Kay provides background on conflicting intelligence assessments:

"The CIA says its intelligence indicates that America's strikes did severely damage Iran's nuclear program. [...] This contradicts a leaked initial assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency, which found that the bombings only set back Iran's program by several months." ([05:55])

Joe Scarborough shares President Trump’s assertions during the NATO summit:

"It was very good. I thought it was amazing. [...] We destroyed the nuclear." ([07:01])

Jeff Mason elaborates on the upcoming classified Senate briefing:

"A classified Senate briefing regarding last weekend's airstrikes in Iran is set for today [...] Tulsi Gabbard, however, will not attend." ([07:54])

Richard Haas analyzes the long-term implications:

"Iran has elements of a nuclear program that could be reconstituted if and when they chose. [...] This problem is going to be with us down the road." ([09:16])

The discussion underscores the uncertainty surrounding the true extent of the damage to Iran's nuclear capabilities and debates whether diplomatic negotiations are still a viable path forward.

3. NATO Summit and Defense Spending

The episode transitions to international relations, focusing on the recent NATO summit where President Trump emphasized America's military strength and alliances.

Jonathan Lemere quotes President Trump’s remarks:

"These people really love their countries. [...] Without the United States, we couldn't, they couldn't really have NATO. It wouldn't work." ([11:22])

Jeff Mason discusses Trump's fluctuating stance on NATO:

"He told us that there were different definitions of Article 5, which as you rightly said, is the agreement to mutual defense. [...] Allies are figuring out how to work with President Trump." ([13:00])

Richard Haas provides insight into the strategic decisions post-summit:

"The pipeline from the United States to Ukraine is essentially going to run dry. [...] The biggest single question mark coming out of the NATO summit." ([17:08])

The segment highlights President Trump's commitment to NATO, the challenges of maintaining mutual defense agreements, and the ongoing support for Ukraine amid its conflict.

4. Senate Republicans and Medicaid Cuts in Domestic Policy Bill

Turning to domestic politics, the hosts examine the ongoing debates within the Republican Senate regarding proposed Medicaid cuts embedded in President Trump's expansive domestic policy bill.

Jonathan Lemere shares optimistic sentiments from Senate Republicans:

"Everybody is cautiously optimistic. [...] We're moving that along." ([21:22])

Jeff Mason details the internal conflicts:

"Senate Republicans are still debating several points of contention within the bill, despite another meeting yesterday to hash out differences on issues like Medicaid cuts and energy tax credits." ([21:54])

Katty Kay underscores the potential fallout:

"Some Republicans who are usually so aligned with President Trump, like Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, have come out really opposing this part of it." ([23:30])

Richard Haas anticipates the bill's progression:

"It's going to happen. And I think some of the Republicans and others are going to have to maybe figure a year from now when they're up for reelection or something." ([24:27])

The discussion emphasizes the tension between fiscal conservatism and the need to support vulnerable populations, with significant implications for rural hospitals and upcoming elections.

5. CDC’s Vaccine Advisory Panel Overhaul

A pivotal segment addresses the White House's recent restructuring of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel, raising concerns over public health and trust in vaccinations.

Katty Kay introduces the topic:

"The overhauled CDC vaccine advisory panel mentioned by the senators there held its first meeting [...] some who have expressed vaccine skepticism." ([29:06])

Susan Manares explains the ramifications:

"If it's on the CDC immunization schedule, insurance companies have to cover it. [...] more people are going to die." ([34:02])

Dr. Fiona Havers shares her perspective:

"Those members were highly respected vaccine experts. [...] They are not going to sit on that panel." ([31:14])

Dr. Vin Gupta discusses the potential impact on public health:

"Agents on the panel can be consequential. [...] The American Medical Association and other bodies are vociferously backing existing guidelines." ([32:02])

Susan Manares warns of the consequences:

"Vaccine-preventable diseases are increasing in the United States. [...] more vaccine-preventable deaths." ([34:02])

The hosts and experts express deep concerns that the panel's overhaul could undermine vaccine efficacy and public health initiatives, potentially leading to increased mortality from preventable diseases.

6. Extreme Heat and Public Health Advice

Concluding the episode, the discussion shifts to immediate public health concerns regarding extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change.

Tulsi Gabbard offers practical advice:

"Wear a hat. [...] Use the lotion form and hydrate. [...] Check on your elderly neighbors." ([35:33])

Dr. Vin Gupta reinforces the importance of preparedness:

"Fatigue, just weak acting, altered are the early signs of heat exhaustion." ([36:48])

The segment provides listeners with essential tips to safeguard against heat-related illnesses, emphasizing community support and personal responsibility.

Conclusion

The June 26 episode of Morning Joe delivers a comprehensive analysis of pivotal political events, from local electoral surprises to significant international developments impacting nuclear diplomacy and public health. With insightful commentary and expert opinions, the hosts offer listeners a nuanced understanding of the complex issues shaping today's political landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Jonathan Lemere (00:32): "He was a complete no name, an unheralded 33-year-old assemblyman who simply caught fire."

• Richard Haas (04:15): "The real question is to what extent is he prepared to tack towards the center? Will he do so without losing his base?"

• Susan Manares (34:02): "If you're a parent and they vote to remove certain childhood vaccines that are safe and effective, you could end up in a situation... more people are going to die."

• Tulsi Gabbard (35:33): "Wear a hat... Use the lotion form and hydrate... Check on your elderly neighbors."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the episode, providing a detailed overview for listeners and non-listeners alike.