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Dr. Fauci Pleads the Fifth; How Long Can Mitch McConnell Stay Out of the Senate?

Jul 29, 2026 · 25m

Summary

This episode covers Dr. Anthony Fauci invoking the Fifth Amendment during a Senate hearing regarding leaked personal diaries, with NBC’s Monica Alba detailing the political fallout. The show also examines the mystery surrounding Senator Mitch McConnell’s health and absence, noting the lack of Senate rules forcing transparency. Finally, host Yasmin Basugin and guest Sirat Sohi discuss WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s potential departure amid rumors of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s increasing control.

Topics discussed

Introduction: WNBA controversy and Mitch McConnell's absence Dr. Fauci invokes Fifth Amendment at Senate hearing Legal rationale for Fauci's Fifth Amendment plea Rand Paul releases Fauci's diaries and seeks prosecution Fauci's diary entries on his relationship with Trump Diary insights into Biden's health and next steps for Fauci Commercial break and transition to Mitch McConnell segment Kentucky Governor demands transparency on McConnell's health Senate rules on sick leave and political speculation Impact of McConnell's absence on Senate votes and elections Commercial break and podcast promotion WNBA success contrasts with Commissioner Engelbert's scrutiny Engelbert's communication issues and player relationships Structural challenges of WNBA commissioner role under NBA Show closing and newsletter subscription information
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