The Cozy Relationship Between Boeing and the Federal Government

These days when you think of Boeing, the words that come to mind might be: door plug, 737-max, grounded. But before this month's safety debacle and the Ethiopian and Lion Air crashes five years ago, Boeing was synonymous with industry and innovation, and the company enjoyed a special relationship with the U.S. government and U.S. presidents.

Former President Barack Obama joked he was Boeing's top salesman, and former President Donald Trump praised the company at a visit during his presidency.

Now that special relationship between Boeing and the US government is under renewed scrutiny.

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks to transportation correspondent Joel Rose about that relationship and what this latest incident could mean for the company and its oversight.

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This episode was produced by Connor Donevan. It was edited by Catherine Laidlaw and Courtney Dorning. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.