Senate Minority Leader, White House Border Czar, and Others Speak on State of the Union Podcast

Interviews cover immigration enforcement, election interference, and Epstein case

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In the latest episode of CNN's State of the Union podcast, host Jake Tapper interviews several high-profile political figures, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, White House Border Czar Tom Homan, Democratic Governor Andy Beshear, and Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin. The discussions cover a range of topics, from the ongoing government shutdown and immigration enforcement to allegations of election interference and the Epstein case.

Why it matters

These interviews provide insight into the key political debates and issues facing the country, offering perspectives from both sides of the aisle. The discussions touch on high-stakes topics that have significant implications for the American public, making this episode of the State of the Union podcast an important source of information and analysis.

The details

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer discusses Democrats' demands to rein in immigration enforcement in exchange for ending the partial government shutdown. White House Border Czar Tom Homan joins to discuss the end of the Trump administration's crackdown in Minneapolis and the Department of Homeland Security's credibility. Democratic Governor Andy Beshear talks about Trump's efforts to interfere with the midterm elections, while Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin is pressed on the administration's failed attempt to indict six Democratic lawmakers. Finally, Jake Tapper gives the last word to three Epstein survivors who were present at Attorney General Pam Bondi's controversial hearing on Capitol Hill.

  • The podcast episode was recorded and published on February 15, 2026.

The players

Chuck Schumer

Senate Minority Leader, a Democratic politician from New York.

Tom Homan

White House Border Czar, a former acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Andy Beshear

Democratic Governor of Kentucky.

Markwayne Mullin

Republican Senator from Oklahoma.

Pam Bondi

Attorney General, a Republican politician from Florida.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.