1.21.25 Trump’s inauguration, the Israel/Hamas ceasefire, and spotlighting a top Supreme Court advocate

Summary

The World and Everything In It - Episode 1.21.25 Summary

Release Date: January 21, 2025
Host: WORLD Radio
Podcast Title: The World and Everything In It

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I. Trump’s Inauguration: A Historic Comeback Amid Adverse Conditions

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of President Donald Trump's inauguration, which drew massive crowds to Washington, D.C., despite challenging weather conditions. Host Lindsay Mast introduces the day’s major events, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion.

Crowded Enthusiasm and Weather Challenges

Due to extreme cold weather, the inauguration ceremony was moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda. Singer Carrie Underwood led attendees in song when a technical issue disrupted the planned musical performances.

Ted Urawski shares his experience:

“[00:06:52] Ted Urawski: I looked, I said, oh, look at this beautiful sunny day. We blew it, we blew it. And then I went outside and we were freezing. You would have been very unhappy. The sun was very deceptive. It is cold out.”

Massive Executive Orders and Legal Implications

President Trump’s return to the Oval Office was marked by a flurry of activity. In a single day, he signed over 200 executive orders, including:

• Declaring a national emergency at the southern border.
• Designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations.
• Rolling back Biden-era environmental policies.

Daniel Darling reports:

“[01:13] Daniel Darling: President Trump, with pen in hand, sat down behind a desk stacked high with black folders, each bearing the presidential seal and each containing a different executive order.”

Pardoning Controversial Figures

Trump’s inaugural actions included pardoning individuals associated with the January 6th Capitol riot.

Daniel Darling notes:

“[02:03] Daniel Darling: Trump also signed an order Monday pardoning almost all of those charged with crimes related to the January 6th Capitol riot.”

Inaugural Address and Policy Promises

Delivered under a polar vortex, Trump’s inaugural speech emphasized restoring America through a series of immediate actions:

“[10:17] Ted Urawski: I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success. But first, we must be honest about the challenges we face…”

Key promises included:

• Declaring a national emergency at the southern border to halt illegal entry.
• Designating drug cartels as foreign terrorists.
• Reaffirming traditional definitions of citizenship and gender.

Attendees expressed strong support, with one attendee, Josh Nabel, stating:

“[11:55] Josh Nabel: We gave him a mandate to lead… We’re excited for a lot of things he's going to be doing.”

Public Reaction and Logistical Issues

Many attendees faced disappointment when the inauguration parade was moved indoors, limiting access to the Capitol One Arena, which only accommodates 20,000 people. Ted Urawski recounts his struggle to secure tickets:

“[08:23] Paul Clement: Just gonna go find a pub now.”

Ultimately, thousands watched the ceremony via live streams from nearby locations, braving the cold to witness the historic event.

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II. Biden’s Final Days: Preemptive Pardons and Controversies

In contrast to Trump’s aggressive start, the outgoing President Joe Biden exercised his final hours in office by issuing a series of preemptive pardons.

Key Pardons Issued

Kristin Flavin reports:

“[03:50] Lindsay Mast: Biden on Monday morning signed preemptive pardons for a slew of officials and lawmakers who have not been charged with any crimes…”

Notable figures pardoned included:

• Members of the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riots.
• Former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Mark Milley.
• Dr. Anthony Fauci, for his role in the federal COVID-19 response.
• Several of Biden’s family members.

Biden clarified his intentions:

“[03:50] Kristin Flavin: In a statement, Biden said the pardons are not an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, but rather are intended to shield them from politically motivated prosecution.”

This action sparked debates about the ethical implications and motivations behind preemptive pardons, especially concerning high-profile individuals.

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III. Israel/Hamas Ceasefire: Hostage Releases and Regional Implications

A significant development in Middle Eastern politics unfolded with the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas as part of a broader ceasefire agreement.

Ceasefire Deal Details

Myrna Brown details the transaction:

“[14:35] Myrna Brown: The ceasefire deal is just one of a number of major issues the new administration will be dealing with…”

Key points of the deal include:

• Israel releasing nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
• A six-week ceasefire, halting efforts to dismantle Hamas.
• The release of the first three hostages after 469 days in captivity.

Human Stories and Emotional Reunions

The release of hostages elicited emotional responses from families. Emily Damari’s mother expressed gratitude:

“[04:35] Daniel Darling: The mother of Emily Damari… thanked the Israeli military as well as former President Biden and President Trump for her release.”

Emily herself was reported to be in high spirits and on the road to recovery:

“[04:55] Kristin Flavin: Emily is in high spirits and on the road to recovery…”

Expert Analysis: Regional Stability and Future Risks

Will N. Bowden, a former National Security Council staffer, provided insights into the implications of the ceasefire:

“[16:54] Will N. Bowden: Israel is at a crossroads… Prime Minister Netanyahu has tough choices ahead regarding continued fighting post-ceasefire.”

Bowden highlighted ongoing threats from Hamas and the broader regional dangers posed by Iran and its proxies, emphasizing the precarious balance Israel must maintain to ensure long-term stability.

Historical Parallels and Bipartisan Efforts

The ceasefire drew comparisons to the 1981 Carter-Hussein hostage situation. Bowden noted the unprecedented bipartisan cooperation between the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration to facilitate the deal:

“[17:13] Myrna Brown: It was a remarkable display of bipartisanship… there was a shared partnership to get this deal done.”

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IV. Profile: Attorney Paul Clement – Defender of Religious Freedom

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to profiling Paul Clement, a prominent attorney known for his extensive experience arguing before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Early Career and Supreme Court Focus

Paul Clement recounts his path to becoming a Supreme Court advocate:

“[23:10] Paul Clement: Studying at Harvard sparked a specific interest in the Supreme Court…”

He served as a law clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia in 1993, where he learned the importance of vigorous legal discourse:

“[24:05] Paul Clement: If you had an issue on a case… you hashed it through.”

Solicitor General and Private Practice

Clement was nominated by President George W. Bush to become the Solicitor General in 2005, representing the federal government at the Supreme Court. He later transitioned to private practice, establishing his firm Clement and Murphy.

Notable Cases and Legal Philosophy

During oral arguments, Clement is known for his clear, forceful yet accessible language. In the 2022 case Kennedy vs. Bremerton School District, he defended a high school football coach’s right to pray on the field.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor posed a challenging hypothetical scenario:

“[26:53] Paul Clement: If somebody wants to have sort of a Nazi emblem but it's not religious, assume it's religious…”

Clement navigated the complex interplay between religious freedom and secular law, emphasizing sincerity in religious beliefs.

Personal Insights and Work Ethic

Clement shared his rigorous preparation habits and the nerves that accompany Supreme Court arguments:

“[28:58] Paul Clement: You're facing nine incredibly smart justices who are all asking questions, many of which are not designed to highlight the best features of your case.”

He expressed a preference for representing petitioners, valuing the opportunity to present rebuttals:

“[29:27] Paul Clement: I think I like being a petitioner better because you get that rebuttal.”

Clement’s dedication to his craft underscores his influential role in shaping legal discourse on religious freedom.

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V. Electoral Coalition and Evangelicals: A Shift in Political Dynamics

The episode delves into the evolving political landscape following Trump’s electoral victory, highlighting the diverse coalition that propelled his comeback.

Multiracial and Multi-Faith Support

Daniel Darling discusses the breakdown of Trump’s support base:

“[30:32] Daniel Darling: Trump is putting together the multi-ethnic working-class coalition and it's a majority of the country.”

Key demographics included:

• Hispanic Voters: Trump secured 45%.
• Black Voters: Achieved unprecedented numbers in swing states.
• Native Americans, Arab Americans, and Asian Americans: Notable gains.

Challenging Outdated Narratives on Evangelicals

Despite criticisms and slander from progressive circles, the election demonstrated robust support for evangelical Christians:

“[33:34] Daniel Darling: Do politically active evangelicals have charlatans, idolaters, and cranks in their midst? Yes. But genuine prophets speak to their own people with tears, not taunts.”

Daniel Darling emphasized that the negative stereotypes surrounding evangelical political activity are both outdated and unfounded, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of their role in American politics.

Historical Context and Future Implications

Referencing historical presidential support for religion and morality, Darling argued that evangelical Christians remain essential to the American ideal of ordered liberty:

“[33:40] Daniel Darling: Patriotic Christians are essential to the American project of ordered liberty.”

He calls for constructive engagement and unity, inspired by Biblical principles:

“[33:40] Daniel Darling: Let’s be more willing to… maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

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VI. Additional Stories: Navigating Personal and Systemic Challenges

Administrative Errors Affecting Citizens

An intriguing human-interest story featured Nicole Paulino from Maryland, who faced a bureaucratic nightmare when a clerical error led to her being mistakenly declared dead. This error disrupted her access to essential services until it was corrected.

“[21:12] Myrna Brown: I got a little frightened, I'm not gonna lie, and surprised because I am alive. I'm here.”

Nicole’s ordeal underscores the importance of accuracy in governmental record-keeping:

“[21:38] Kristin Flavin: After weeks of frustration, Nicole is officially alive again. Her advice? Double check your paperwork because it's hard to live your best life when the system thinks you've already had your last.”

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VII. Conclusion and Upcoming Highlights

As the episode wraps up, listeners are teased upcoming segments, including a detailed look at President Trump’s executive orders and a historical reflection on the Battle of the Bulge commemorating its 80th anniversary.

“[34:43] Lindsay Mast: Tomorrow. President Trump started his term with a flurry of executive orders. We'll consider a handful of them during Washington Wednesday.”

The episode concludes with gratitude towards reporters and a mission statement emphasizing biblically grounded journalism:

“[35:12] Kristin Flavin: The world and everything in it comes to you from World Radio. World’s mission is biblically objective journalism that informs, educates, and inspires.”

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Notable Quotes:

• Ted Urawski on Inauguration Weather:
  “[00:06:52] Ted Urawski: It is cold out.”

• President Trump's Post-Inauguration Statement:
  “[02:24] Ted Urawski: …I was saved by God to make America great again.”

• Paul Clement on Supreme Court Preparedness:
  “[28:58] Paul Clement: Nine incredibly smart justices who are all asking questions…”

• Daniel Darling on Evangelical Coalition:
  “[33:34] Daniel Darling: Genuine prophets speak to their own people with tears, not taunts.”

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This comprehensive summary captures the key discussions, insights, and narratives presented in Episode 1.21.25 of "The World and Everything In It," providing listeners with an engaging overview of Trump’s inauguration, international ceasefires, significant legal profiles, and the evolving political dynamics within the United States.

Transcript

[Lindsay Mast]

Good morning. President Trump's inauguration yesterday drew big crowds to Washington, D.C. we'll hear from a few of the people looking for a front row seat to history.

[Myrna Brown]

We could go see him at the Capital One arena, but that only fits 20,000 people and it's going to be packed.

[Kent Covington]

There's 250,000 of us.

[Kristin Flavin]

Also today, Hamas released the first three hostages in the terms of the ceasefire. What's next? And we'll hear from a lawyer who has argued over 100 cases before the Supreme Court.

[Paul Clement]

You're facing nine incredibly smart justices who are all asking questions, many of which are not designed to highlight the best features of your case and what the.

[Kristin Flavin]

Election results may mean for evangelicals and politics.

[Lindsay Mast]

It's Tuesday, January 21st. This is the world and everything in it. From listener supported World Radio, I'm Lindsay Mast.

[Kristin Flavin]

And I'm Myrna Brown. Good morning.

[Lindsay Mast]

Up next, Kent Covington with today's news.

[Daniel Darling]

In the Oval Office last night, President Trump, with pen in hand, sat down behind a desk stacked high with black folders, each bearing the presidential seal and each containing a different executive order.

[Paul Clement]

Sir, this is a proclamation declaring a.

[Myrna Brown]

National emergency at the southern border of the United States.

[Ted Urawski]

That's a big one. A lot of big ones, huh?

[Daniel Darling]

And the president's pen kept moving as he signed more than 200 orders on Monday, including one designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Also numerous measures aimed at securing the border, and a number of orders rolling back Biden era environmental policies. Trump acknowledged that some of the orders could face legal challenges, including this one.

[Paul Clement]

This next order relates to the definition of birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment.

[Myrna Brown]

Of the United States.

[Ted Urawski]

That's a good one. Birthright.

[Daniel Darling]

But he said he believes, believes that order is on solid legal ground. Trump also signed an order Monday pardoning almost all of those charged with crimes related to the January 6th Capitol riot. President Trump returns to the Oval Office after overcoming legal prosecutions and two assassination attempts. He had this to say shortly after taking the oath of office.

[Ted Urawski]

I felt then, and believe even more so now, that my life was saved for a reason. I was saved by God to make America great again.

[Daniel Darling]

Because of extreme cold weather, Trump delivered his inaugural address in the Capitol Rotunda at a poignant moment inside the Capitol when a technical issue prevented music from playing. Singer Carrie Underwood led those gathered inside the rotunda in song. The traditional parade down Pennsylvania Avenue was also moved indoors to an arena in Washington. That was followed by several inaugural ball celebrations. Just hours after Trump's inauguration, senators handed the president his first confirmation victory filling a crucial role in his administration.

[Myrna Brown]

On this vote, the yeas are 99, the nays are 0. The nomination of the great Senator Marco Rubio from the state of Florida is confirmed.

[Daniel Darling]

After the vote, Secretary Rubio said he's ready to get to work. We'll have a clear mission at the.

[Myrna Brown]

State Department, and we've got one of the most talented federal workforces in all our government to do it, and so.

[Daniel Darling]

I'm excited about it, he said. Everything the State Department does will be about making America safer, stronger and more prosperous. President Biden on Monday in his final hours in office, issued one last round of presidential pardons. World's Kristin Flavin reports.

[Lindsay Mast]

Biden on Monday morning signed preemptive pardons for a slew of officials and lawmakers who have not been charged with any crimes. Those pardoned include members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol riots, as well as former Joint Chiefs of staff chairman General Mark Milley, who oversaw the US withdrawal of Afghanistan. Also on the list, Dr. Anthony Fauci, who helped lead the federal government's response to COVID 19 under both presidents Trump and Biden. He also preemptively pardoned several members of his family. In a statement, Biden said the pardons are not an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, but rather are intended to shield them from politically motivated prosecution. For World I'm Kristen Flavin.

[Daniel Darling]

Tears of joy in Israel, three young women held hostage by the terror group Hamas since 2023 have been reunited with their loved ones. On Monday, the mother of Emily Damari, one of those women, thanked the Israeli military as well as former President Biden and President Trump for her release.

[Kristin Flavin]

I'm delighted to be able to tell you that Emily is in high spirits and on the road to recovery. As you will have seen last night, she is an amazingly strong and resilient young woman.

[Daniel Darling]

And in Washington on Monday, family members of hostages still being held by Hamas took the stage during Trump's inaugural address at the Capitol.

[Ted Urawski]

We never stopped praying for you and we're so glad that you're reunited with your friends and families and God bless.

[Daniel Darling]

You all, trump added. We stand with Israel, we stand for peace, and we stand against the forces of terror. A polar vortex is now holding much of the south in its icy grip. Mark Chouinard with the National Weather Service says a rare winter storm is dumping snow on parts of the Gulf Coast.

[Kent Covington]

The highest amounts are looking is like.

[Myrna Brown]

Maybe 4 to 6 inches from near Houston, just east of Houston towards Baton.

[Kent Covington]

Rouge and New Orleans.

[Daniel Darling]

Those would not be record amounts, but historic nonetheless. Snow is even possible in North Florida. I'm Kent Covington, and straight ahead, tens of thousands braved the cold to watch yesterday's inauguration. And we met a few of them. This is the world and everything in it.

[Kristin Flavin]

It's Tuesday, the 21st of January. This is World radio, and we're so glad you've joined us today. Good morning. I'm Myrna Brown.

[Lindsay Mast]

And I'm Lindsay Mast. First up on the World and everything in it, watching history in Washington. Wind chills nearing single digits forced the inauguration indoors to the Capitol Rotunda. Here's President Trump on Tuesday.

[Ted Urawski]

I looked, I said, oh, look at this beautiful sunny day. We blew it, we blew it. And then I went outside and we were freezing. You would have been very unhappy. The sun was very deceptive. I will tell you. It is cold out.

[Kristin Flavin]

Secret Service set up security screening stations outside the Capitol, One arena downtown to livestream the ceremony. The number of people originally promised inauguration tickets was more than 10 times as many as the arena could hold.

[Lindsay Mast]

And that left the majority of visitors out in the cold, looking for a place to watch President Trump take the oath of office for the second time. Reporters from World's Washington bureau spoke with several of those people, and Carolina Lumeta has the story.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Visitors to Washington, D.C. this weekend thought they came prepared, but the weather still surprised them.

[Myrna Brown]

Way colder. We're not used to this in Florida at all. This is very new to us, but we dress plenty warm.

[Kent Covington]

I think jackets seem illegal in Florida, but you have to do it here for sure.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Josh and Lauren Nabel flew in from Tallahassee on Friday. They had been promised tickets to the inauguration from their congressman, Neil Dunn, and we're looking forward to watching from the Capitol grounds. Until plans changed, I was at the.

[Kent Covington]

Airport, and then I got a call from Neil Dunn's office, and he just let us know that, hey, we're so sorry, but the inauguration got moved inside and we don't have access to get you guys inside the Capitol. So we're like, ah, okay, well, we're.

[Paul Clement]

Just gonna go find a pub now.

[Kent Covington]

And a bunch of TVs and go.

[Paul Clement]

Celebrate with a bunch of other supporters.

[Carolina Lumeta]

I met the Nables walking around the nearby H Street corridor looking for a restaurant or anywhere that would live stream the ceremony.

[Myrna Brown]

I get it. And also safety concerns as well. We understand. We'd rather, we'd rather be safe than be selfish and be like, oh, we want to see them, you know, and, and we could go see them at the Capital One Arena. But that only fits 20,000 people and it's going to be packed.

[Kent Covington]

There's 250,000 of us.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Ted Urawski was one of those trying to get a seat in the downtown arena.

[Ted Urawski]

I got up at 3:30 trying to get in line.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Uroski and his family came from Norfolk, Virginia to watch the livestream of Trump's.

[Myrna Brown]

Address and was not able to because.

[Paul Clement]

I didn't have a ticket or a.

[Ted Urawski]

Pass, only to find out that after.

[Paul Clement]

We went back into line, that they were just letting people have tickets when.

[Myrna Brown]

They got in through.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Those who couldn't get into the arena or a watch party pulled out their smartphones to watch Donald Trump take the oath of office.

[Paul Clement]

John Roberts is going to do it.

[Kristin Flavin]

So it's got to be the chief justice. Is that by law or something like that?

[Ted Urawski]

Okay, please raise your right hand and repeat after me.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Luke Duzney from Georgia joined Jim Atherton and Laban Karaoke from Delaware to watch the speech on a street corner near the Capitol.

[Myrna Brown]

The office of President of the United.

[Daniel Darling]

States must have already happened. This must be delayed.

[Ted Urawski]

Yeah, the 21 gun salute.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Whoa.

[Paul Clement]

It's done.

[Carolina Lumeta]

President Trump styled his inaugural address much like a campaign rally or a State of the Union, with former President Joe Biden sitting directly behind him. He said the country faces severe challenges.

[Ted Urawski]

I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success. But first, we must be honest about the challenges we face. As we gather today, our government confronts a crisis of trust. For many years, a radical and corrupt establishment has extracted power and wealth from our citizens, while the pillars of our society have lay broken and seemingly in complete disrepair.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Trump listed several Day one promises to declare national emergencies over energy and the border, to create an external revenue service, and to declare that the official position of the United States is that there are only two genders. He said his re election launches America's golden age.

[Ted Urawski]

With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense. It's all about common sense. First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border. All illegal entry will immediately be halted.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Supporters were excited to hear Trump's promise to send troops to the southern border, designate drug cartels as foreign terrorists, and deport immigrants who commit crimes. Here's Laban Karaoke, a naturalized citizen from.

[Ginny Ruff]

Kenya, and he's not talking about, let's.

[Myrna Brown]

Kick everyone out but the murderers and the rapists. And how can you defend that? Kick them out.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Josh Nabel says Trump is carrying out the will of the voters who put him back in office.

[Myrna Brown]

I mean, we gave him a mandate to lead. And I think a lot of the stuff that he's going to do we're going to agree with. And if we don't agree with him, we'll call him out on it. But we're excited for a lot of things he's going to be doing.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Within hours of the transition of power, the Customs and Border Patrol app used to schedule asylum appointments at the southern border shut down. And a pro abortion webpage on the Health and Human Services website no longer loads. President Trump has promised to sign as many as 200 executive orders over the next few days.

[Ted Urawski]

Many people thought it was impossible for me to stage such a historic political comeback. But as you see today, here I am. The American people have spoken. In America, the impossible is what we do best.

[Carolina Lumeta]

Reporting for World, I'm Carolina Lumeta in Washington, D.C.

[Daniel Darling]

Additional support, this report comes from Pensacola Christian College Academic Excellence Biblical Worldview affordable cost go pcci.edu world.

[Myrna Brown]

And.

[Daniel Darling]

From Chosen Gen Ministry, Outfitting Family discipleship through resources such as the Discipleship Parenting podcast. More at chosengen. Min.

[Kristin Flavin]

Coming up next on THE WORLD and everything in it, the ceasefire in Israel on Sunday. Three people held by Hamas for 469 days reunited with their families. The three women are the first of 33 hostages to be released over the next six weeks. In exchange, Israel is releasing almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and has agreed to stop trying to decimate Hamas, at least for now.

[Lindsay Mast]

The ceasefire deal is just one of a number of major issues the new administration will be dealing with in the coming weeks. Joining us now to talk about what's ahead is Will N. Bowden. He served on the staff of the National Security Council under President George W. Bush and now teaches at the University of Florida. He's also a commentator for World Opinions. Will, good morning.

[Myrna Brown]

Good morning, Lindsay. Great to be with you.

[Lindsay Mast]

Thank you so much. To start, tell us about this ceasefire deal. The first exchange 90 Palestinian prisoners for these first three hostages. Why is it so seemingly lopsided and are there other similar imbalances?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, I mean, the first thing we have to say is it is a very notable deal. But you're right, it's also very inequitable. You know, the overall terms are something like Israel releasing over a thousand Palestinian militants in exchange for potentially just 33 Israeli hostages being released. But for Israel, which, you know, places a rightly tremendous value on the lives of each and every one of its citizens, it's still a cost worth paying. You know, as we saw those images for the three young Israeli women who are released and reunited with their families, it's, it's a, you know, very, very special occasion and only raises the hopes and expectations of more releases for forthcoming because the hostages have endured just truly unspeakably horrific existence over the last 400 some days.

[Lindsay Mast]

Well, Hamas is claiming this as a win for them, but it looks like the terror group is at least depleted. So is that true? And what about Israel's position with its other enemies like Iran and its proxy Hezbollah?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, Israel is really at a crossroads right now. I mean, you know, first the, the conflict with Hamas and Gaza, it's, it's in this uncertain phase where there is a six week ceasefire. Israel has had some substantial battlefield gains. They, you know, killed or otherwise liquidated or detained most of Hamas's leadership. And yet it's not a complete win. You know, Hamas still has fighting capabilities. Its terrorist fighters are returning to some of their different garrisons and outposts in, in Gaza and potentially pose a renewed threat. And so Prime Minister Netanyahu has some tough choices to make about what, if any, sort of occupation or continued fighting he may want to do after the ceasefire of Hamas poses a continued threat. Israel also had a substantial success in degrading Hezbollah to their north and even more virulent threats sponsored by Iran with some of those remarkable intelligence and military operations over the last few months. But Israel's biggest enemy remains the Islamic Republic of Iran itself, which sponsors, you know, Hezbollah, which sponsors Hamas and some of these other proxies targeting Israel. So these are some of the tough choices that Israel is facing in a very difficult neighborhood.

[Lindsay Mast]

Well, speaking of Iran, this doesn't feel unlike 1981 and the Carter and the hostage situation there with yesterday's inauguration. Both former President Biden and President Donald Trump are claiming credit for this ceasefire. So what do you think should go down in the history books? And were there other factors at play here?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, it's hard to miss some of the parallels with 1981 and an outgoing one term Democratic president who leaves office very unpopular and weekend and then hostage releases in the Middle east, you know, a new Republican president coming in. I will say, though, as a matter for the historical record, it's clear that in a pretty remarkable display of bipartisanship, the Biden administration and the Trump, incoming Trump administration did cooperate pretty closely, including sending joint delegations over to the Middle east over the last couple of weeks. And despite their political differences, there was an agreement, a shared, you know, partnership here to, to get this deal done.

[Lindsay Mast]

Well, turning our attention to a few other hotspots in the world. You just returned from a trip to Taiwan. Can you tell us about what we can expect for US Taiwan relations going forward?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, it was a very interesting trip. I was part of a delegation of senior former US Policymakers sponsored by the Ronald Reagan Institute. And I would say the overwhelming takeaway for me was Taiwan's anxiety. They are very anxious about continued pressure, the possibility even of an invasion or a blockade or other aggression from China. I was, I will say, impressed at how much Taiwan is wanting to do for its own self defense. They have increased their defense spending by about 80% over the last nine years. They're now spending two and a half percent of their GDP on their own military and showing their own willingness and resolve to sacrifice and to fight. So there's real eagerness on the part of Taiwan to I think upgrade their partnership with the United States under, under a Trump administration. And I will say I certainly hope the Trump administration will, will reciprocate that.

[Lindsay Mast]

Well, quickly. Can you also touch on the Russia Ukraine war on the campaign trail? Donald Trump promised a quick end to the conflict, was in office. What do you expect we'll see on that front?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, Russia, Ukraine is a really hard one to predict. Ukraine still shows a lot of resolve to keep fighting for its country and Putin shows no interest whatsoever in negotiating or a compromise. But you know, so Russia is kind of grinding forward in its counteroffensive and tying these things together. I'll say I heard a lot of concern in Taiwan about Russia and Ukraine because Taiwan worries if the west allows Russia to be completely Russia to succeed in Ukraine or allows Ukraine to completely fall, Ty worries that that might be a signal that they are next, that Beijing could then turn its, its aggressions towards them. So with Russia, Ukraine, I don't see any prospect in the near term of a, of a resolution or ceasefire of some sort. But I hope I'd be wrong on that.

[Lindsay Mast]

A lot of conflicts going on. Is there anything else we need to be aware of right now, Will?

[Myrna Brown]

It is a dangerous, worrisome world. You know, terrorism, China, Russia, Iran, North Korea. But there are opportun for the United States and I certainly hope and pray that President Trump and his pretty capable team can take advantage of those, well, springboarding from that.

[Lindsay Mast]

Will, I'm curious what you make of all of the world leaders who were at the inauguration yesterday. There were some spaces in that rotunda being taken up by people who are on the world stage and not necessarily American. What do you make of that?

[Myrna Brown]

Yeah, I think it's a reminder that for all the challenges we have here in the United States, sometimes it can be helpful to look at our country through the lens of others around the world and be reminded of everything that we do have to offer and a lot of ways what a model we are to the rest of the world. And I hope my fellow Americans can take some encouragement from that, even as we're realistic about the challenges we continue to face.

[Lindsay Mast]

Will in Bowden teaches at the University of Florida and served on the staff of the National Security Council under President George W. Bush. Thank you so much, Will.

[Myrna Brown]

Thank you, Lynte. It's great to be with you.

[Kristin Flavin]

When Nicole Paulino from Maryland went to renew her driver's license, she got the surprise of her life. According to the dmv, Nicole was officially dead.

[Myrna Brown]

I got a little frightened, I'm not gonna lie, and surprised because I am alive. I'm here.

[Kristin Flavin]

It all started with a typo. Someone at a funeral home accidentally entered Nicole's Social Security number while trying to report another person's death. Then that era just snowballed. Her driver's license renewal was denied. Her health insurance canceled. I mean, she couldn't even get her asthma inhale.

[Kent Covington]

Lindsay this really, really messes up my life.

[Kristin Flavin]

After weeks of frustration, Nicole is officially alive again. Her advice? Double check your paperwork because it's hard to live your best life when the system thinks you've already had your last. I bet it's the world and everything in it.

[Lindsay Mast]

Today is Tuesday, January 21st. Thank you for turning to World Radio to help start your day. Good morning. I'm Lindsay Mast.

[Kristin Flavin]

And I'm Myrna Brown. Coming next on THE World and Everything In It, a profile of a celebrity in the legal world. Attorney Paul Clement has been practicing law for 33 years. He's a founding partner at Clement and Murphy, a boutique appellate practice in Alexandria, Virginia.

[Lindsay Mast]

But he's perhaps best known as the man who has argued more than 100 cases before the U.S. supreme Court. Legal correspondent Ginny Ruff recently talked with Clement about his life's work.

[Ginny Ruff]

It's hard to believe now, but Paul Clement almost didn't become Paul Clement, Esq. The licensed attorney.

[Paul Clement]

I actually came very close to not going into the law.

[Ginny Ruff]

He was accepted to law school, but decided to pursue a one year master's program in economics overseas.

[Paul Clement]

So I had until about the first of the year to decide whether to give up my spot in law school and pursue a PhD in econ or to Just do a master's and then go to law school.

[Ginny Ruff]

The following year, he chose law. Studying at Harvard sparked a specific interest in the Supreme Court.

[Paul Clement]

As soon as I got to law school and just started reading Supreme Court cases, which you do, a lot of it just seemed like, well, you know, the Supreme Court, they're the ones that get to decide the rule for everybody. You know, trials are really interesting, courts of appeals are interesting, but they can get essentially overruled by the Supreme Court. But, but the Supreme Court is the one that sort of sets the rules.

[Ginny Ruff]

In 1993, Clement became a law clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia. Clement says Scalia preferred to talk things out rather than require his clerks to write lengthy memos.

[Paul Clement]

If you had an issue on a case that was bothering either you or the judge or the justice, you walked in, you talked about it, you hashed it through.

[Ginny Ruff]

Clement quickly learned he couldn't be afraid to mix things up with the legal.

[Paul Clement]

Giant, which I think really helped me later in my practice because, you know, once you've disagreed with Justice Scalia over a legal issue in chambers, like, what's left to be intimidating in the law. Right.

[Ginny Ruff]

The vigorous discussions were the best parts of the job.

[Paul Clement]

And those are the highlights of the clerkship. And you know, I'm certainly not going to try to imply that I persuaded the justice very often, but maybe every once in a while.

[Ginny Ruff]

In 2005, President George W. Bush nominated Clement to become Solicitor General. At his confirmation hearing, he introduced his wife Alexandra and his sons.

[Paul Clement]

Because when I was studying law up at Harvard, Alex was across the Charles river at the business school earning her mba. And so every day that she allows me to practice law outside the home while she stays home with our three boys is a personal sacrifice and an indulgence of my interest. So. For which I eternally grateful.

[Ginny Ruff]

His sons have since grown up and Clement has moved on to private practice. But as the Solicitor General, he represented the federal government at the Supreme Court. Still, some people get confused about that role.

[Paul Clement]

When I was Solicitor General, you know, I would joke that, you know, I'm not the person that puts warning labels on cigarettes. That's somebody else.

[Ginny Ruff]

His quick witted side comes out in court too. For example, during last month's oral argument in an environmental case, the discussion touched on what the legal test should be.

[Paul Clement]

Could give you a 10 word test that took care of every hard case. I mean, you know, they'd give me tenure at Harvard, but I think, you know, having. I'm sure they'd give you that anyway.

[Ginny Ruff]

That's Justice Elena Kagan, who is, of course the former dean of Harvard. Clement is known for his easygoing style. When he appears before the justices, he makes his points forcefully, but he uses everyday language. Clement says the justice's questions don't tend to take him by surprise.

[Paul Clement]

I think if you are caught completely off guard, the only right answer is to say, I don't know, or you know, that's just not something that we've considered. I'm not sure if I remember like a moment where I was caught completely off guard, though, just by saying that out loud. It'll probably happen to me in my next argument.

[Ginny Ruff]

And what about not so funny moments like during oral argument? In the 2022 case Kennedy vs. Bremerton School District, Clement represented high school football coach Joe Kennedy, who wanted to pray on the field after games. And Justice Sonia Sotomayor came up with this hypothetical why can't the school fire.

[Paul Clement]

A coach who decides to put a.

[Myrna Brown]

Nazi swastika on their arm and go.

[Paul Clement]

To the middle of the field and pray? If somebody wants to have sort of a Nazi emblem but it's not religious, assume it's religious. But if it's not religious, assume it's religious. I'm happy to assume it's religious. If it's religious. That might be one of the rare cases where you question the sincerity of the religious belief, because I'm not really aware of that religion myself.

[Ginny Ruff]

But in 2023, the Catholic Information center honored Clement for his advocacy work in the service of religious freedom. During his acceptance speech, Clement made this observation.

[Paul Clement]

If the court confronts an idiosyncratic religious practice that does not run afoul of any secular dogma, like the length of a Muslim prisoner's beard, the religious adherent wins 9 to 0. But if the court confronts a claim that interferes with a right to contraception or abortion or some other secular dogma, the court divides sharply and religion is blamed for the divisiveness.

[Ginny Ruff]

That's part of what makes the job difficult, and it's a job that requires long hours of preparation, clement says. He spends nights and weekends getting ready for every case.

[Paul Clement]

You know, for a Supreme Court argument, you can't prepare too much. I take it every bit as seriously and work every bit as hard as I did for my first argument. I think for most people, the central component, or a central component, are to do moot courts.

[Ginny Ruff]

Moot court is a practice session that simulates court proceedings. Clement does at least two per case, and when it comes to the real moment, he still gets the jitters.

[Paul Clement]

I'm on record as saying that if I ever stop getting nervous, I'll just go do something else. You know, if you're not nervous before arguing a case in the Supreme Court, then you're not aware of what you're doing. It's a pretty awesome undertaking. You're facing nine incredibly smart justices who are all asking questions, many of which are not designed to highlight the best features of your case.

[Ginny Ruff]

After so much preparation, he sometimes feels the temptation to turn on a football game.

[Paul Clement]

It's really not in your client's best interest or the court's best interest for you to just sort of kick off and watch football instead of finishing your preparation. And those nerves are part of what helps keep you going.

[Ginny Ruff]

At the end of my interview, Clement's assistant walked into the conference room and handed him a stack of papers for his next meeting. But he answered one more question. Does he prefer to represent the petitioner or the respondent?

[Paul Clement]

Oh, I think I like being a petitioner better because you get that rebuttal.

[Ginny Ruff]

And with that, he had the last word. Reporting for World I'm Jenny Ruff in Alexandria, Virginia.

[Kristin Flavin]

Today is Tuesday, January 21st. Good morning, this is the world and everything in it from listener supported World Radio. I'm Myrna Brown.

[Lindsay Mast]

And I'm Lindsay Mast. President Trump's dramatic political comeback comes with a so called vibe shift for the country. Here's World Opinions contributor Daniel Darling.

[Kent Covington]

Over the last few months, tech CEOs, once fearful of alliance with Republicans, marched down to Mar A Lago to meet with the once and future president. Democrats who once called Trump an enemy of democracy now signal new openness to working with him. Others are decrying the identity politics of the left as an electoral albatross. Some of this is to be expected in a popular vote victory. One stubborn shibboleth that deserves to die is the tortured thesis that demonizes evangelicals for voting Republican and tying this preference to darker notions of white supremacy. This is a hard argument to make. When he observed the multiracial makeup of Trump's electoral coalition, he won an astonishing 45% of Hispanic voters. Among black voters, Trump drew numbers in swing states that Republicans haven't seen in several generations. He also won a majority of Native Americans and made gains with Arab Americans and Asian Americans. NBC analyst Chuck Todd declared of Trump, quote, he's put together the multi ethnic working class coalition and it's a majority of the country. It's over 50%. It turns out voters of all ethnic backgrounds rejected inflationary economic policies, radical transgender policies and an out of control border. However, this reality conflicts with the persistent narrative churned out by the anti evangelical industrial complex. Consider Kristin Dumay, author of the best selling Jeremiah, Jesus and John Wayne. She warns darkly that the new administration will quote, embolden and empower the white Christian nationalist movement and in all likelihood, she asserts, institutionalize white Christian nationalism. Dumay's sentiments are not unique. Though progressive Christians are statistically more political, many voices have loudly insisted that when conservative Christians bring their faith to the public square, it is an illegitimate power grab, a descent into idolatry, and a loss of mission. What's more, for nearly a decade even some evangelical leaders have advanced the slanderous charge that churchgoing evangelicals are inherently bigoted, racist and anti democratic. Do politically active evangelicals have charlatans, idolaters and cranks in their midst? Yes. Do some take the name of Jesus in vain in their political activity? Yes. Like every cohort in human history, there are bad faith actors. Christians shouldn't be afraid to hear criticism. Every generation needs sober voices warning the faithful. But the cottage industry of contempt that snickers at the saints is often more performative than prophetic. Genuine prophets speak to their own people with tears, not taunts. And this last election proves that many of the tired narratives about politically active evangelicals are stale and untrue. A multiracial, multi faith coalition rejected progressive identity politics. Far from a danger, patriotic Christians are essential to the American project of ordered liberty. Some of America's best leaders understood this. Listen to George Washington's words in his farewell address, where he says, of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports Presidents from John Adams to Harry Truman, from FDR to Ronald Reagan affirmed this. Conservative Christians should engage with humility and purpose, understanding that this nation is a place God has called us to do a limited amount of work in a fallen world. We engage because we love our neighbors. We seek the welfare of our cities. We steward the rare gift of citizenship. Does the arena of politics provide unique temptations and pitfalls? Yes, this is why we need the regular rhythms of church life, scripture, and prayer. But hopefully this election will offer a sort of vibe shift from the tired anti evangelical jeremiads who sell cheap cynicism to willing listeners. Let's be less eager to cast aspersions on brothers and sisters in Christ for their political activity and be more willing to, in the words of Ephesians 4, 3, maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. I'm Daniel darling.

[Lindsay Mast]

Tomorrow. President Trump started his term with a flurry of executive orders. We'll consider a handful of them during Washington Wednesday. And 80 years ago this week, the Battle of the Bulge came to an end. We remember the sacrifice of so many to speed the end of the war. That and more tomorrow. I'm Lindsay Mast.

[Kristin Flavin]

And I'm Myrna Brown. Our thanks to Addie Offerance, Leo Braceno and Harrison Waters for their assistance and reporting from the inauguration Monday. The world and everything in it comes to you from World Radio. World's mission is biblically objective journalism that informs, educates and inspires. The Bible says, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight. O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Verse 14 of Psalm 19. Go now in grace and peace.