Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
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This episode explores the UK media regulator Ofcom's investigation into Elon Musk's X platform and its Grok AI, which generates non-consensual sexualized images, discussing the government's hesitant stance and the broader political implications. London Mayor Sadiq Khan defends the capital against right-wing "hellhole" claims, highlighting declining crime rates and London's diversity. The discussion also covers Nadhim Zahawi's defection to the Reform Party, examining the shifting landscape of British right-wing politics and the controversial rhetoric surrounding it. Finally, the podcast addresses the alarming criminal investigation into US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, labeling it as potential authoritarian overreach.
In this episode, Mehdi Hasan critically examines Donald Trump's confrontational second term, detailing its rapid militarization, the expansion of ICE, and the debate around its "neo-fascist" characteristics. He highlights Trump's strategy of exhausting the media and public with constant scandals and the concerning consolidation of power through billionaire allies controlling news outlets. Hasan also addresses the psychological toll of covering this administration and the enduring damage to democratic institutions both domestically and globally.
What does a strong succession plan look like? Before Darren Fletcher took over as Man United's interim manager he felt he needed Sir Alex Ferguson 's blessing. But when everyone's still harping back to Ferguson, who left the club over 12 years ago, you know the succession plan has gone wrong. Man City will be taking note, as their own legendary manager Pep Guardiola isn’t staying forever. While Chelsea have used their multi-club system to take Liam Rosenior from Strasbourg - primed and ready to ...
This episode examines the controversial killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, highlighting the immediate and intense politicization of the event by federal officials like Donald Trump and the media. It critiques the rush to judgment, the disregard for evidence, and the broader implications of ICE's militarization and the targeting of immigrant communities. The discussion then shifts to the escalating anti-government protests in Iran, exploring their economic drivers, the unique aspects that suggest a potential revolution, and the geopolitical ramifications of a possible regime change, while also critiquing the lack of global media attention.
The News Agents delves into the escalating geopolitical tensions surrounding the US interception of a Russian-flagged oil tanker, 'the Marinera', and its potential for direct conflict. The discussion extends to the feasibility of proposed European security guarantees for Ukraine, highlighting the vast military commitment required and the current state of European defence capabilities. Additionally, the episode critiques the UK government's hesitant stance on regulating Elon Musk's Grok AI, which has been used to create non-consensual deepfakes, exposing a perceived lack of political courage in confronting powerful tech figures and their influence on global politics.
Stephen Miller's refusal to rule out military force to acquire Greenland highlights the Trump administration's escalating imperialistic tendencies, jeopardizing NATO's integrity and international law. The move is fueled by a strategic battle for rare earth minerals against China and a desire for American hegemony, despite existing US access to Greenland's resources. European leaders face a profound dilemma, grappling with the erosion of trust and the potential collapse of established world order, as Trump pursues territorial expansion and makes unreliable promises.
This episode dissects Donald Trump's new, highly interventionist foreign policy, exemplified by the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his desire for Greenland. It highlights a shift from democracy-promotion to transparent coercion and resource acquisition for US benefit. The discussion explores the domestic political drivers, Trump's personal psychology, and the profound challenge this poses to the "rules-based order" and America's European allies.
In an unprecedented move, President Trump launched a military operation in Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and announcing the U.S. will govern the country, citing oil interests and a revived Monroe Doctrine. This audacious action, seemingly flawlessly executed, raises significant questions about international law, congressional oversight, and Trump's deviation from his "America First" non-interventionist promises. The episode delves into the geopolitical fallout, potential instability, and the domestic political implications for Trump's administration.
In this special Q&A episode, The News Agents delve into various predictions for 2026, from unlikely political comebacks like George Santos and Angela Rayner, to the persistent rise of far-right movements across Europe. They also explore the political survival of Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch, the precarious position of Benjamin Netanyahu, and the increasing concerns about Donald Trump's health and influence. The hosts further discuss serious threats to European democracy from Russia and radical right networks, the evolving role of the British monarchy, and share a humorous anecdote about John Sopel's acting experience.
In this special Christmas Day episode, The News Agents hosts gather to present their "2025 Awards," humorously reflecting on the past year's political and social landscape. They debate significant speeches by figures like J.D. Vance and Jimmy Kimmel, pivotal moments including the Zelensky-Trump confrontation and the Charlie Kirk shooting, and identify both rising and sinking political figures. The episode also highlights memorable social media occurrences, debates the "Politician of the Year," and reviews notable resignations, offering a witty and critical look back at the events that shaped 2025.
Jon and Lewis tackle listener questions, delving into a nuanced defense and critique of Keir Starmer's leadership and public image, including his perceived lack of authenticity. They also preview key 2026 elections in the UK, US, Hungary, and Israel, analyzing their potential impact. A central discussion explores if Britain is ungovernable due to social media, political speed, and declining political quality, concluding with memorable anecdotes about surprising politician interviews.
The News Agents explores the profound internal divisions rocking the MAGA movement, intensified by Charlie Kirk's assassination, as prominent figures like JD Vance increasingly embrace extremist and ethno-nationalist views, drawing criticism from within the conservative sphere. It also delves into the UK political landscape, specifically Wes Streeting's challenge to Labour leadership on closer EU ties and the economic fallout of Brexit. The episode concludes by examining the contentious decision to abolish the traditional Westminster lobby briefing, sparking debate on media access and government transparency.
Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips unveils a bold government strategy aimed at tackling violence against women and girls, framing it as a national emergency and a call for fundamental cultural change across institutions. She defends her plans against critics like Kemi Badenoch, who questions the focus on misogyny, while also addressing the growing influence of online culture, AI, and pornography on young people. Phillips reflects on her challenging year, including a high-profile clash with Elon Musk, and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of victims despite political distractions.
The News Agents discuss the highly anticipated Anthony Joshua versus Jake Paul boxing match, exploring the implications of an Olympic champion fighting a YouTuber-turned-boxer. Light-Heavyweight prospect Ben Whittaker offers his unique perspective on the fight's commercial appeal, potential dangers, and how social media influences modern boxing careers. The episode also features quick takes on cricket and other sporting highlights of the year.
This week, the head of the British army warned the public that "more families will know what sacrifice for our nation means", given the increasing threats to the UK. European leaders are meeting today to discuss billions of dollars of seized Russian assets that are sitting in a vault in Brussels. Ukraine is desperate to use the money to help it fight two more years of war. Europe is on the brink of saying yes - but America is trying to stop them. Why? And will a war on our doorstep become more l...
This episode delves into the unprecedented Vanity Fair interview with Susie Wiles, Donald Trump's Chief of Staff, where she candidly discusses Trump's "alcoholic personality," criticizes policies, and takes digs at figures like J.D. Vance. The hosts explore why she gave the interview, its impact on Trump's inner circle and the Republican Party's future, and whether her days are numbered. The episode also examines Kemi Badenoch's potential to revive the Conservative Party and a notable Christmas joke by Keir Starmer.
This episode delves into Donald Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC over a Panorama documentary, exploring the legal challenges in Florida, the distinct differences between US and UK libel laws, and Trump's history of suing media outlets. It also examines the BBC's dilemma of fighting or settling, alongside recent polling data revealing declining public trust in the broadcaster and its potential future as an "anachronism" in a changing media landscape.
The episode delves into the devastating Bondi Beach attack during Hanukkah, highlighting how this tragedy reflects a concerning global surge in antisemitism. It critically examines the fine line between free speech and hate speech, government responses to intimidation, and the challenges of policing such rhetoric. The discussion also features a poignant personal account of the Jewish community's eroded sense of safety and concludes with a separate segment on the ongoing, intractable NHS junior doctors' strike in the UK.
The podcast delves into Keir Starmer's tumultuous year, contrasting his political approach with the effective populism of Huey Long, "America's first dictator." It analyzes Labour's internal plotting, inconsistent policies, and intellectual vacuum, which have alienated both MPs and crucial middle-class voters. The discussion also explores broader structural issues in British politics, including the impact of the information environment on leadership authority and the need for a more coherent vision.
Pippa York , then known as Robert Millar, was crowned the Tour de France King of the Mountains, winning three stages in the 1980s. But ever since she was five she wanted to be a girl. Years after quitting cycling, aged 41, she started a 10-year transition process to become Pippa York, who joins Gabby and Mark. What was it like racing the Tour de France with gender dysmorphia? And what does she make of the debate around trans-inclusion in sport now? Plus we look back at the best bits from The Spo...
The podcast examines Trump's audacious seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, analyzing the geopolitical implications, motivations behind the act, and the US's historical interventionist role in Latin America. It then shifts focus to UK domestic politics, discussing Tony Blair's alleged endorsement of Shabana Mahmood for Labour leader amidst growing doubts about Keir Starmer's future and the party's current direction. The episode concludes with a humorous look at a US State Department font controversy.
This episode features an exclusive investigation into a former Metropolitan Police officer accused of running a paedophile ring, detailing the alleged cover-up by the Met and their current response. Later, Justice Minister Jake Richards discusses Keir Starmer's push for ECHR reform to address irregular migration and combat populism, as well as controversial plans to reform jury trials to tackle the justice system's backlog.
This episode delves into the epic $100 billion battle for Warner Bros. Discovery between Netflix and Paramount, examining the political ramifications and Donald Trump's deep involvement, including his personal grievances and desire to control media narratives. It also explores the broader implications of media consolidation, the rise of tech titans, and their influence on sovereign governments. Later, screenwriter Noah Oppenheim discusses his film "House of Dynamite," which depicts a nuclear strike, and the chilling reality of near-misses and the Pentagon's disputed missile defense claims.
The episode explores Trump's latest Ukraine peace proposal and the alarming US National Security Strategy, which depicts Europe as facing "civilizational erasure" due to immigration, implicitly endorsing far-right ideologies. It details an unprecedented shift in US foreign policy away from traditional alliances and highlights the normalization of extreme rhetoric. The discussion then pivots to UK domestic politics, examining the growing internal challenges and leadership speculation surrounding Keir Starmer, concluding with his new, somewhat unconventional, social media strategy.
This episode delves into the concept of "lawyerly societies" in the West, where legal processes hinder infrastructure development and progress, contrasting with China's rapid advancements as an "engineering state." It explores the historical shift in the West, current economic stagnation, and the rise of populism. The discussion also touches upon the trade-offs of China's model and potential paths for Western reform to foster growth and avoid future conflicts.
Six-time Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy joins Gabby and Mark after his terminal prostate cancer diagnosis at just 47 years old. What more does Chris think the government should be doing to help? How has his sporting background helped him? And why is he excited for the Darts World Championship? And we bring you the best bits from The Sports Agents this week from President Trump meddling in the FIFA World Cup to rumours of a Serena Williams comeback. 📩 Got a question? Send it here: https:...
Reform's Deputy Leader, Richard Tice, popped up on the BBC today and appeared to dismiss the antisemitism claims of Jewish men who’d been at school with Nigel Farage as “politically motivated…made up twaddle“. Hours later, Farage exploded at a BBC reporter during a press conference, demanding an apology for what he said was "despicable" coverage of the antisemitism row by the BBC. Farage has previously admitted to the slurs but excused them as school boy banter. So, where does all this leave a p...
Justice Secretary David Lammy discusses his plans to cut thousands of jury trials, arguing for reform to tackle case backlogs and systemic underinvestment, despite internal party criticism and accusations of hypocrisy. He also addresses the prison capacity crisis, "Calamity Lammy" nickname, and Labour's nuanced position on Brexit, advocating for closer ties with the EU. The interview touches on challenges for progressive governments globally and the party's long-term electoral strategy.
This episode delves into the UK's justice system, specifically David Lammy's controversial plan to remove juries for less serious crimes to tackle severe backlogs, sparking debate on constitutional principles versus practical efficiency. It also covers the junior doctors' Christmas strike, exploring their demands beyond pay, including job security and training places, and the government's response. Finally, the discussion moves to the US, analyzing a Republican politician's xenophobic comments on immigration and their potential impact on international events like the World Cup.
The podcast dissects the UK Chancellor's contentious budget, examining accusations against Rachel Reeves for allegedly misleading the public about financial holes and tax increases, and the OBR's significant leak. It also scrutinizes the government's communication failures and inability to pass welfare reforms, which necessitated the tax hikes. The discussion then shifts to international affairs, exploring Donald Trump's concerning posts about Venezuela, allegations of US military actions constituting war crimes, and the country's appeal to OPEC, revealing a transactional pursuit of oil and regime change.
