The U.S. and Iran are seizing tankers in a dangerous standoff

Iran’s new supreme leader hasn’t been seen or heard since being named successor. Lee Keath of The Associated Press explains why it’s difficult to know who exactly in the regime is in charge. 

Candidates for California governor squared off in a debate this week. Politico’s Melanie Mason joins to discuss why the departure of leading candidate and disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell still lingers over the race.

Pope Leo wrapped his tour of Africa and urged the U.S. and Iran to go back to the negotiating table. On this week’s Apple News In Conversation, NPR’s Scott Detrow explores what it means to have an American Pope who understands U.S. politics. 

Plus, the DOJ’s watchdog says it is launching an investigation into the department’s release of the Epstein files, a U.S. soldier has been charged with using inside information to bet on Nicolás Maduro’s future, and adults turn to pregaming. 

Today’s episode was hosted by Cecilia Lei.