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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You’ve likely seen the viral video of Coco Gauff smashing her racket in a corridor at the Australian Open. She tried to go somewhere without cameras and failed. Now she's complaining the only private place is the locker room, Novak Djokovic says it's like "big brother", Iga Swiatek thinks they're "animals in a zoo". Content is king but at what cost to player privacy? Isn’t this the kind of access we all wanted to drive sports broadcasting forward and grow the sport? The bigger the sport - the mo...
The podcast delves into the FBI's controversial raid on Fulton County election offices, where 2020 ballots were seized, raising alarms about Donald Trump's strategy to politicize federal agencies and interfere with future elections. Guests discuss how this serves as a blueprint to sow distrust in the democratic process and potentially suppress voter turnout. A county commissioner provides an eyewitness account of the raid, expressing concerns about the integrity of the seized documents and calling for citizens to actively protect their voting rights. The episode also touches on the normalization of extreme rhetoric in UK local politics, highlighting a Reform candidate's offensive social media posts.
This episode examines Kemi Badenoch's controversial strategy to renew the Conservative Party by explicitly rejecting centrism, alienating moderate voters and risking further narrowing the party's appeal. It then pivots to analyze Donald Trump's threat of military action against Iran with his "beautiful armada." An Iranian activist reveals skepticism about Trump's motives, suggesting his focus is on a nuclear deal and geopolitical gain rather than supporting Iranian democracy amidst a brutal crackdown on protesters. The episode concludes with a critique of Trump's "grotesque" comments on US shooting victims, highlighting his ability to deflect from accountability.
The episode delves into Donald Trump's surprising shift from aggressive tactics to conciliation regarding ICE operations in Minneapolis, including the removal of commander Greg Bovino and the appointment of Tom Homan. This change appears to be a tactical retreat, influenced by overwhelming public opinion, Republican discontent, and the undeniable camera evidence contradicting the administration's narrative. Later, the discussion moves to the UK, examining how social media algorithms contribute to rising extremism and radicalization, highlighting the challenges for law enforcement and the accountability of tech companies.
The episode delves into Suella Braverman's defection to Reform UK, scrutinizing the motivations of defecting Conservative MPs and the potential strategies for both Reform and the remaining Tories in reshaping the British right. It then shifts to the internal Labour Party dynamics, specifically Andy Burnham's unsuccessful attempt to re-enter Parliament and what this signifies for Keir Starmer's leadership. Finally, the discussion moves to the U.S., exploring the controversial shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis, the contradictory narratives, and the broader political repercussions for Donald Trump's immigration policies and public support.
In Minneapolis, ICE operations have escalated to an unprecedented level, creating a climate of fear where citizens are targeted, detained without warrants, and even killed. This has prompted a remarkable community mobilization, with "citizen armies" actively patrolling to deter federal agents. The episode delves into the breakdown of constitutional order, as the state government clashes with Trump's federal administration, highlighting how this is less about immigration and more about testing authoritarian tactics and the limits of federal power, with potential global implications.
Everyone’s been talking about the Beckhams and Naomi Osaka this week. Hard to believe a family feud and a jellyfish outfit at the Australian Open have anything in common - but where Sir Alex Ferguson used to fight to keep David Beckham's focus on the pitch, sport is now embracing fashion like never before... Lewis Hamilton and Serena Williams pictured at the Met Gala, Stella McCartney designing Arsenal kits , and the famous NBA Tunnel Walks. Have we all grown up enough to appreciate that athlete...
The News Agents explore Donald Trump's self-appointed "Board of Peace," scrutinizing its billion-dollar entry fee, the "motley crew" of nations joining, and its origins in a biased Gaza rebuilding plan. They discuss Trump's disruptive foreign policy, comparing his actions to Putin's, and how his approach might force organizations like NATO and the UN to reform. The episode also covers Trump's failed Greenland acquisition and the underlying strategy of his "Project 25" for a new world order.
Donald Trump's demand for Greenland, though framed without military force, carries a veiled threat, sparking concern among European leaders and raising questions about his mental acuity and strategic coherence. The discussion highlights Mark Carney's assertion of a "rupture" in the global order, where economic integration becomes a weapon. This forces Europe to re-evaluate its reliance on the Western Alliance, considering independent strategies and potential economic countermeasures against Trump's divisive and expansionist policies.
This episode delves into the profound impact of Donald Trump's presidency, detailing his aggressive foreign policy that strains international alliances and poses threats to global stability, alongside a disturbing investigation into secret 'dark flights' deporting legally residing individuals. It examines the erosion of democratic norms in the US and questions the future of American governance and its relationship with the world, urging leaders to stand firm against complicity.
The hosts report from Minneapolis on President Trump's escalated ICE operations, detailing indiscriminate raids, community fear, and local resistance efforts, including citizen patrols and support networks. The episode highlights how the city has become a battleground, facing political and quasi-military assault. Additionally, it delves into Trump's perplexing foreign policy, specifically his demand for Greenland, which has sparked an international crisis, exposed weaknesses in global alliances, and challenged European leaders to respond to his unpredictable actions.
Rutger Bregman, author of "Moral Ambition," critiques "bullshit jobs" and urges talented individuals to channel their efforts into solving global problems. He recounts the BBC's controversial decision to censor his remarks on Trump, highlighting concerns about media cowardice and the hollowing out of liberalism. Bregman advocates for reclaiming virtue and public purpose, drawing parallels with historical moral revolutions to inspire hope for renewing society.
Hosts Morocco face Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday. At this AFCON almost 40% of players were born outside Africa, like the face of the tournament Ashraf Hakimi . So where should teams be putting their money - improving recruitment from the diaspora or investing more at home? What needs to change to attract these players? And can Sadio Mane and Senegal stop the powerhouse of Morocco from winning their first AFCON in 50 years? Gabby and Mark are joined by former Premie...
This episode delves into Kemi Badenoch's decisive sacking of Robert Jenrick after his defection plot to the Reform Party was uncovered. The hosts and political analyst Paul Goodman discuss the internal fractures within the Conservative Party, Nigel Farage's reaction, and the potential impact on Kemi Badenoch's leadership as she aims to pivot the party towards economic policies rather than culture wars. They also explore Jenrick's controversial political evolution and the broader implications of political fragmentation leading to a likely hung parliament.
This episode examines the controversial actions of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, including warrantless detentions, racial profiling, and violence, with critics drawing comparisons to the Gestapo. It explores the Trump administration's support for these tactics and their potential impact on the upcoming midterm elections. Additionally, the podcast uncovers a policing scandal in the UK, where West Midlands Police used flawed, AI-generated intelligence to justify banning Maccabi Tel Aviv football fans, leading to a chief constable's apology and calls for accountability.
The episode delves into the intensifying protests across Iran, highlighting the regime's extreme violence and the communication blackout. It provides historical context from the Shah's era to the current Islamic Republic, examining the protesters' desire for change and their calls for the return of the Pahlavi dynasty. An Iranian journalist shares harrowing personal experiences of repression and analyzes the multifaceted reasons behind the current unrest, including economic factors and perceived external influences. The hosts also discuss the intricate military and geopolitical risks associated with Donald Trump's contemplation of intervention, weighing potential outcomes and international alliances.
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.
