What a Day - Episode: The First American Pope Release Date: May 9, 2025 | Host: Jane Coaston | Produced by Crooked Media

1. Introduction

In the May 9th episode of What a Day, host Jane Coaston navigates a whirlwind of news, starting with the historic election of the first American Pope, followed by significant political developments in the United States. The episode delves into various topics, from church leadership to high-stakes political maneuvers, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing issues.

2. The Historic Election of Pope Leo XIV

Jane Coaston opens the episode with groundbreaking news from the Vatican:

[00:52] Pope Leo XIV: "God loves us. God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God. Therefore, without fear, united, hand in hand with God and amongst ourselves. Let us go forward."

Background and Significance: Jane introduces Cardinal Robert Prevost, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, making history as the first American Pope. A Villanova University graduate, Prevost spent much of his adult life in Peru, where he became a bishop and a naturalized citizen. His election marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, especially considering the burgeoning growth of Catholicism in Africa and Asia, projected to encompass 75% of Catholics by 2050 (Jane references a University of Southern California study).

Insights from Christopher White: Jane converses with Christopher White, Vatican Correspondent for the National Catholic Reporter and author of Pope Leo XIV: Inside the Conclave and the Dawn of a New Papacy, offering deeper insights into the implications of Prevost's papacy.

[03:37] Christopher White: "This is a win for those who want to see Pope Francis's vision of the church continue forward... Pope Leo XIV is very much committed to this in his bones."

White highlights that Pope Leo XIV aligns closely with Pope Francis's progressive vision, emphasizing synodality—a process aimed at making church structures more inclusive and participatory. Despite being less charismatic than his predecessor, Leo XIV is portrayed as a steadfast leader with a globalist perspective, prepared to address issues like immigration and social justice.

Pope's Relationship with the U.S. and Global Politics: The election comes at a critical time for U.S.-Vatican relations, especially with Donald Trump's administration still influential. White suggests that an American Pope could wield significant influence, potentially challenging authoritarian tendencies by leveraging the papacy's moral authority.

[08:55] Christopher White: "We can expect some real clashes on issues like migration, climate change, the poor."

First Address and Future Directions: In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV echoed the inclusive messages of his predecessor, advocating for a welcoming church environment for all individuals, irrespective of age, background, or personal circumstances.

[10:09] Christopher White: "He wants the Catholic Church to be a place of welcome for everyone."

3. President Trump's Breakthrough Trade Deal with the United Kingdom

Transitioning from religious leadership to international trade, Jane Coaston reports on President Trump's announcement of a new trade deal with the United Kingdom.

[15:03] President Trump: "The deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports, especially in agriculture..."

The deal focuses on enhancing market access for American agricultural products, including beef and ethanol, while proposing alternatives to existing tariffs on steel and aluminum. Although described as a "framework" rather than a finalized agreement, Trump emphasized its significance for strengthening U.S.-UK economic ties.

[15:36] Prime Minister Keir Starmer: "We've always had a fair and balanced arrangement between our countries... There's a fantastic platform here."

4. Secretary Sean Duffy’s Plan to Overhaul Air Traffic Control

Jane highlights Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy's ambitious proposal to modernize the aging U.S. air traffic control system.

[17:10] Sean Duffy: "When systems go down and the equipment that you see up here, we don't call the manufacturer to buy replacement parts for this equipment. Do you know where we go? Ebay."

Duffy unveiled plans to construct six new air traffic control centers and replace outdated technology, emphasizing the urgent need for modernization after recent outages disrupted flights.

[17:32] Jane Coaston: "A House committee estimated last week that it could cost $12.5 billion to modernize the country's air traffic control system."

Duffy urged Congress to provide upfront funding to ensure the project’s completion by 2028, though he did not specify the required budget.

5. Protests and Campus Unrest at Columbia University

The episode shifts focus to campus unrest, detailing violent protests at Columbia University.

[18:38] Jane Coaston: "President Trump's task Force to Combat Anti Semitism praised Shipman for her response to the protest."

Acting President Claire Shipman condemned the actions of pro-Palestinian protesters who forcibly occupied library spaces, leading to police intervention and multiple arrests.

[19:19] Jane Coaston: "The people who wrote those books were not in the White House with us. That is a very nice wife."

The administration's reaction included funding cuts to Columbia University as part of a broader initiative against anti-Semitism on campuses.

6. Former President Joe Biden’s Critique of Donald Trump and the 2024 Election

Jane covers a live appearance by Former President Joe Biden on ABC's The View, where he offers a candid critique of Donald Trump's administration and reflects on the upcoming 2024 election.

[19:47] Joe Biden: "He's had the worst hundred days any president's ever had."

Biden acknowledged shortcomings in addressing voter concerns over immigration and inflation but maintained confidence in his administration's achievements.

[20:05] Joe Biden: "Look, I was in charge and he won, so, you know, I take responsibility."

He also addressed unfounded claims regarding cognitive decline, dismissing them as baseless.

[20:40] Joe Biden: "They are wrong. There's nothing to sustain that..."

The conversation turned awkward as Biden struggled to counter the cognitive decline allegations, ultimately redirecting focus back to policy accomplishments.

7. Criticism of FBI Director Kash Patel

In a scathing critique, Jane dismantles the performance of FBI Director Kash Patel, highlighting his lack of engagement with vital bureau responsibilities.

[22:01] Jane Coaston: "Kash Patel should not be focused on the work of the FBI... he should be focused on issues like does the Venetian Las Vegas have a good buffet?"

Patel, a known MAGA supporter, has been criticized for neglecting his duties, missing important meetings, and prioritizing personal interests over bureau operations. His inability to manage the FBI's budget effectively led to his replacement as interim head of the department.

[23:25] Jane Coaston: "He has, quote, met the moment with fortitude and conviction."

Patel's dismissive attitude towards critical investigations, such as the controversial death of Jeffrey Epstein, further undermines his credibility.

[24:14] Kash Patel: "We are working through that right now at the Department of Justice."

8. Conclusion

Jane Coaston's What a Day episode delivers an in-depth exploration of the landmark election of Pope Leo XIV, intertwined with significant political updates from the Trump administration and commentary on key national issues. By blending religious milestones with political analysis, the episode offers listeners a nuanced perspective on the forces shaping contemporary society.

Notable Quotes:

• "God loves us. God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail..." — Pope Leo XIV [00:52]
• "This is a win for those who want to see Pope Francis's vision of the church continue forward." — Christopher White [03:37]
• "He’s a man of real steel and backbone." — Christopher White [06:07]
• "When systems go down... we shop on eBay to replace parts." — Sean Duffy [17:10]
• "He's had the worst hundred days any president's ever had." — Joe Biden [19:47]
• "They are wrong. There's nothing to sustain that." — Joe Biden [20:40]
• "Kash Patel should not be focused on the work of the FBI..." — Jane Coaston [22:01]

This summary captures the essence of the May 9th episode of What a Day, providing listeners with a detailed and structured overview of the key discussions and insights presented by Jane Coaston and her guests.