Join Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel in a weekly podcast that unpicks everything you need to know about the world of US politics - all of it delivered with Emily and Jon’s astute analysis, world-class insight and wry sense of humour.
Episodes are available every Tuesday/Wednesday.
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This episode covers JD Vance's controversial, uninvited trip to Greenland, sparking debate over US motives and Greenland's sovereignty. It explores the theory that the trip is a diversion from a leaked "Bomb Yemen" group chat scandal. The podcast features an interview with JD Vance's former Yale Law friend, Sophia Nelson, who discusses his significant ideological transformation, including his embrace of techno-authoritarianism and changed views on Europe, and concludes by examining the Democratic Party's struggle to find a central leader for opposition against Trump.
This episode delves into Donald Trump's ongoing conflict with the judiciary, particularly his demand to impeach a judge who ruled against his administration's deportation policies and the White House's defiance of court orders. The discussion also covers Trump's targeting of commercial law firms perceived to have acted against him, raising concerns about the erosion of the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, with some comparing it to McCarthyism. Amidst these constitutional challenges, the episode also explores the internal struggles and divisions within the Democratic Party regarding their strategy against Trump and their declining public approval.
This episode delves into a new thirty-day ceasefire proposal for Ukraine, critically examining its one-sided nature and Russia's silence, questioning the effectiveness of Trump's diplomatic approach. It also explores Trump's controversial White House event showcasing Teslas, revealing deeper political and economic implications tied to Elon Musk and his tariffs. The discussion concludes with insights into Republican attitudes and the broader economic instability caused by unpredictable policies.
Hosts Emily Maitless and John Sopel analyze Donald Trump's lengthy address, highlighting its campaign-rally nature and the economic concerns arising from his tariff policies. They speak with Dr. Phil Gordon, a former Kamala Harris advisor, about the lack of Republican dissent and Europe's urgent need to rethink its security given US unpredictability. The episode also explores the Democratic Party's strategy for effective opposition and concludes with a surprising development in the Andrew Tate saga in Florida.
The episode dives into the first five tumultuous weeks of a potential Trump administration, highlighting a bizarre AI-generated Gaza 'resort' video and significant shifts in US foreign policy. It exposes threats to the federal workforce, including demands for loyalty and controversial firings, and details escalating control over media access. Author Kurt Anderson joins to discuss America's deep-rooted susceptibility to fantasy and conspiracy, linking current events to the nation's historical psyche and the spread of misinformation.
This episode delves into Donald Trump's transformative presidency, starting with his controversial Saudi-Russian peace talks on Ukraine, which notably excluded European leaders and Ukraine itself, signaling a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy and its relationship with NATO. Veteran Republican strategist Doug Heye explains Trump's centralized control, transactional approach to diplomacy, and the GOP's complete remaking in his image. The discussion also covers Trump's "warp-speed" domestic policy changes, his direct-to-voter communication, and the alarming erosion of checks and balances, including Supreme Court challenges and the unprecedented influence of figures like Elon Musk, all of which test the very foundations of the U.S. Constitution.
The News Agents USA delves into Elon Musk's controversial presence in the Oval Office, where he advocates for dismantling federal agencies and criticizes bureaucracy, reflecting Trump's unitary executive theory. The episode also scrutinizes Trump's efforts to roll back anti-corruption laws, making bribery acceptable for American businesses. It examines the ethical implications and the unique role of the courts and unions as primary sources of resistance against these power expansions.
The News Agents discuss Donald Trump's swift moves to consolidate power, including the controversial confirmations of RFK Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, and the unprecedented firings within the FBI and DOJ. They delve into the erosion of democratic institutions, the implications of Elon Musk's unchecked influence, and the media's financially-driven shift. Political commentator Chris Cillizza offers insights into Trump's 'flood the zone' strategy and the alarming acquiescence of Republican and corporate entities.
This episode delves into Caroline Kennedy's urgent warning against her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s fitness for Health Secretary, exposing his long history of dangerous conspiracy theories and the broader trend of political acquiescence to controversial nominees. It also examines the Trump administration's efforts to reshape media engagement and federal funding, alongside his aggressive "America First" foreign policy, particularly concerning the Panama Canal and Latin America. The discussion concludes by highlighting the global challenges posed by Trump's approach and the continuation of nepotism in his potential new administration.
The podcast explores the initial weeks of Donald Trump's return to office, highlighting the bold defiance of a Washington bishop against his policies and the surprisingly muted public resistance. It delves into Trump's agenda, his efforts to rewrite history regarding January 6th, and the media's struggle to cover his unpredictable yet targeted actions. The episode also features an interview discussing Meta's controversial fact-checking changes seemingly influenced by the new administration, concerns among US allies like Denmark over Trump's foreign policy (e.g., Greenland), and the implications of pardons for January 6th rioters.
The News Agents USA delves into the contentious nomination of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, scrutinizing his lack of experience, allegations of misconduct, and his "dewoke" agenda for the military. The discussion includes reactions from the Senate, notably Joni Ernst's support despite her background, and the political implications of Trump's disruption strategy. Later, a lifelong friend of Joe Biden offers a personal and critical evaluation of Biden's presidential accomplishments, his political missteps, and the factors contributing to his and the Democratic party's electoral challenges.
This episode delves into the immediate impact of Donald Trump's recent Mar-a-Lago press conference, where his provocative statements on Panama, Greenland, and threats to the Justice Department signaled a return to his familiar, confrontational style. Through interviews with a skeptical Republican strategist and a MAGA supporter, the discussion explores the underlying intentions behind Trump's rhetoric, his perceived mandate, and the challenges of governing with slim majorities. It also touches on his relationships with figures like Elon Musk and Nigel Farage, and how foreign political narratives are shaped.
The hosts discuss the evolving media landscape under a potential Trump 2.0 presidency, scrutinizing ABC News's $15 million settlement with Donald Trump and the broader implications for press freedom and journalistic accountability. They then feature an interview with Democratic strategist James Carville, who offers a candid assessment of Joe Biden's campaign decisions, criticizes Kamala Harris's political approach, and emphasizes the overlooked role of "charm" and relatable communication in winning elections, while also commenting on the impact of "woke" politics. The conversation explores the challenges facing both the media and the Democratic Party in a charged political climate.
The News Agents USA dissects Donald Trump's recent NBC interview, noting his more restrained tone and focus on unity and success, alongside his firm stance on ending birthright citizenship and mass deportations. The episode also features an interview with Nellie Bowles, author of "The Morning After the Revolution," discussing how a radical fringe has influenced the Democratic Party's narrative and strategy, alienating moderate voters and leading to electoral challenges.
This episode delves into the controversial pardon of Hunter Biden by his father, President Joe Biden, sparking a debate among Democrats about hypocrisy and the rule of law. It features insights from Representative Jasmine Crockett, who defends the pardon by highlighting Trump's alleged criminality and the politicization of the justice system. The discussion also covers Donald Trump's contentious cabinet picks, including Pete Hegseth and Kash Patel, and the broader implications for American democracy and global leadership as the Trump administration prepares to take office.
Following Donald Trump's comeback, this episode explores the intense postmortem within the Democratic Party. Discussions center on whether the party's focus on progressive and identity issues alienated crucial voters, neglecting core economic concerns. Guests, including former Congressman Steve Israel, debate the need for a strategic shift to meet voters where they are, prioritize economic policies, and learn how to effectively counter figures like Trump, even critiquing Kamala Harris's recent post-election message.
The episode delves into Donald Trump's cabinet selections, highlighting a pattern of nominees like Linda McMahon and Matt Gates facing sexual abuse allegations, and the political calculations influencing their confirmation. It also examines other controversial picks like Mehmet Oz and RFK Jr., and the surprising accommodation of media figures like Morning Joe hosts with the incoming Trump administration. Finally, the discussion extends to JD Vance's political evolution, his controversial 'Islamist country' joke, and his natalist views, exploring the intellectual underpinnings of 'Trumpism' and its potential global influence.
This episode analyzes Donald Trump's initial cabinet appointments, highlighting surprising choices like Fox News host Pete Hegseth for Defense and former rival Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, whose past criticisms of Trump are now overshadowed by loyalty. The discussion also covers Trump's controversial plans for "recess appointments" to bypass Senate confirmation and the significant, unprecedented role given to Elon Musk in a new "Department of Government Efficiency." Don Lemon offers a critical perspective, viewing these appointments as a deliberate challenge to the establishment and a preview of a potentially more frightening and unconstrained second Trump term.
The News Agents hosts tackle listener questions about the recent US election, dissecting Kamala Harris's political future and the Democratic Party's strategy failures in 2024 compared to 2020. They examine the surprising Gen Z vote for Trump, the limited impact of celebrity endorsements, and the role of big money in campaigns. The discussion also speculates on Trump's potential actions regarding the Ukraine war and the lasting impact of the MAGA movement on American politics.
The News Agents delve into the aftermath of Donald Trump's presidential victory, dissecting the Democratic Party's initial denial and the underlying reasons for public dissatisfaction that propelled Trump's return. They examine the popular yet costly implications of his mass deportation policy and the critical role of his "change" message versus Biden's unpopularity. The discussion extends to the formation of Trump's new administration, the immense influence of figures like Elon Musk, and the far-reaching geopolitical consequences for the UK and Europe, predicting a significant rightward shift in British politics.
This episode analyzes Donald Trump's astounding electoral victory, highlighting his broad coalition and the unprecedented Republican control of government. It delves into the devastating defeat for Democrats, questioning leadership and campaign strategies, particularly Joe Biden's role. The discussion also explores the implications of Trump's unchecked power, the erosion of democratic norms, and the profound global consequences across geopolitics, economy, and climate, as well as the rise of a "post-truth" political era.
It's still early in Washington DC but in a remarkable and unprecedented night Donald Trump is on the verge of the greatest comeback in political history. He's on course to pick up the key swing states he needs to secure a return to the White House. How has he managed it? And what does it mean for America and the world? Editor: Tom Hughes Executive Producer: Louis Degenhardt Producer: Natalie Indge Digital Editor: Michaela Walters Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell Video Production: Rory Symon,...
On US election day, the podcast delves into the monumental stakes for both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, highlighting the profound uncertainty despite billions spent on campaigns. Discussions reveal deep societal anxieties, fears of political violence, and the critical questions facing American democracy, exacerbated by varying state-by-state vote counting methods. The hosts also tackle listener questions, covering topics from long voting queues and potential surprise states to the complex scenario of an Electoral College tie.
Overlooking the White House, The News Agents dive into the closing days of the election, analyzing Kamala Harris's strong finish and internal Democratic optimism contrasted with Donald Trump's controversial rhetoric and campaign strategy. The hosts detail critical swing states, what to watch for on election night, and how election calls are made. They also discuss the broader implications for the Democratic party and the role of economic messaging and voter enthusiasm.
This episode delves into the perceived momentum shift towards Kamala Harris, sparked by a surprising Iowa poll showing her ahead due to strong support from independent women. The discussion highlights the pivotal role of the abortion issue in mobilizing voters and scrutinizes Trump's "stolen election" claims and "bro vote" strategy against the Democrats' sophisticated ground game. Reporters also visit a traditionally ruby-red Pennsylvania county, finding unexpected Democratic activity and the emergence of "moral Republican" voters swayed by values and the impact of abortion rights.
This episode delves into the final week of the US election, examining the fallout from Donald Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and its potential impact on voters, particularly the Puerto Rican community. It features an interview with Bob Woodward, who discusses Trump's unchanging character and his perceived danger to democracy. The discussion also covers early voting trends, the Washington Post's controversial non-endorsement of Kamala Harris, and Joe Biden's decision to not seek a second term.
This episode delves into the final weeks of the US presidential election, analyzing Donald Trump's use of outrageous rhetoric as a strategic tool and Kamala Harris's attempts to attract "never Trump" Republicans. Experts discuss the incredibly close polling data, early voting trends, and the significant impact of abortion rights on voter turnout. The discussion highlights the complexity of American ballots and the surprising factors influencing an unpredictable outcome.
This episode explores Kamala Harris's unexpected struggles with Black and Latino voters, traditionally strong Democratic demographics, and how Donald Trump is strategically capitalizing on these shifts with targeted messaging. It delves into the complexities of identity politics, machismo, and economic motivations influencing these voter groups. The discussion also covers the current state of US election polling, the high bar for what constitutes a "close" election, and the crucial factors for interpreting early voting data and election night results, alongside concerns about Trump's rhetoric regarding election integrity and "enemies within."
This episode explores the highly gendered nature of the current election, contrasting Kamala Harris's outreach to young women on podcasts like "Call Her Daddy" with Donald Trump's appeal to men alongside Elon Musk. It delves into the political weaponization of natural disasters and the emergence of "Blue Anon" conspiracy theories. Finally, the discussion touches on Bob Woodward's revelations about Trump's continued communication with Vladimir Putin post-presidency and the perceived lack of impact on his base.
This episode offers an in-depth analysis of the vice presidential debate between Tim Walz and JD Vance, highlighting its unexpectedly polite tone compared to previous presidential debates. It delves into the candidates' contrasting positions on critical issues like abortion rights and gun control, examining Vance's efforts to soften his image and Walz's direct challenges on the 2020 election integrity. The discussion also covers the debate's backdrop of the Israel-Iran crisis, Trump's real-time interventions, and the potential for international events to reshape a tightly contested election.
