The Rest Is Politics: US - podcast cover

The Rest Is Politics: US

TRIP US uncovers secrets from inside the White House inner circles as well as taking a wider look at the intricacies of United States society and how they shape the world's most important economy. The podcast is hosted by Anthony Scaramucci (The Mooch), former White House Director of Communications and Wall Street financier, and Katty Kay, US special correspondent for BBC who has been covering US politics for almost 30 years.  Stay informed with in-depth discussions on key political events, policy changes, and the forces shaping America’s future on the global stage. New episodes released every Friday, or join our club for bonus content. Just head to https://therestispoliticsus.com to sign up today..
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Episodes

170. Trump Backs Down on Iran Threats - What Next?

Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci delve into the complex Iran situation, dissecting Donald Trump's decision to postpone strikes and the skepticism surrounding alleged talks. They discuss the lack of viable off-ramps, the US's perceived misjudgment of Iranian resolve, and the financial motivations behind Trump's actions. The episode also examines the recent missile attack on Diego Garcia, its implications for European security, and the broader shifts in regional power dynamics and international alliances.

Mar 23, 202644 minEp. 170

169. Trump Has Lost Control of Iran - And He Knows It

The episode analyzes the escalating Iran crisis, focusing on Donald Trump's perceived loss of control and the divergence of interests between the US and Israel. It delves into Trump's psychological drivers, his history of denials, and the significant economic and political ramifications of the conflict. Additionally, the hosts discuss the "Save America Act," examining Trump's attempts to restrict voting rights ahead of the midterms and the cultural and historical context of voter suppression in the US.

Mar 19, 202649 minEp. 169

Becoming Trump: Reality TV Fame, Birtherism and the Road to The White House

This episode delves into Donald Trump's calculated rise, from his 'Apprentice' fame to igniting the birtherism conspiracy against Barack Obama, driven by what the hosts identify as racism. It recounts his public humiliation at the White House Correspondents Dinner, which strategically influenced his decision to forgo the 2012 presidential race. The discussion highlights his political instincts to wait for an open election, his subsequent endorsement of Mitt Romney, and how his 'humiliation-retribution cycle' defined his populist influence even before his successful 2016 bid.

Mar 17, 202613 min

168. Why Trump Can't Win This War Alone

This episode explores Donald Trump's current predicament in the Iran war, his administration's initial miscalculations, and the unforeseen closure of the Straits of Hormuz, which is impacting global energy and supply chains. Veteran diplomat Richard Haas analyzes the internal White House conflict between "escalation" and "de-escalation" camps, Trump's psychological need for a perceived victory, and the significant reluctance of US allies to assist due to past grievances and the lack of a clear exit strategy. The discussion also highlights how US entanglement in the Middle East benefits geopolitical rivals like Russia and China.

Mar 16, 202641 minEp. 168

167. Trump vs MAGA: Has Trump Lost His Base?

The hosts delve into the escalating war in Iran, scrutinizing Donald Trump's leadership amidst rising gas prices and significant economic disruption in the Gulf. They discuss whether Trump's "America First" base and independent voters are turning against him due to the conflict's mishandling and lack of a clear exit strategy. The episode also highlights the critical failures in military planning and the broader political challenges facing the administration in the upcoming midterms.

Mar 13, 202647 minEp. 167

Introducing The Book Club: The Great Gatsby

Anthony Scaramucci and Dominic Sandbrook introduce "The Book Club" podcast, designed to make classic literature accessible and fun. They then deeply explore F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," discussing its origins in the Jazz Age, the author's tumultuous personal life including his doomed first romance and troubled marriage, and how these experiences shaped the novel's themes of class, aspiration, and the American Dream. The hosts also touch on the book's initial reception, its eventual popularization, and the iconic cover that influenced its final revisions.

Mar 11, 202623 min

166. How Trump’s War is Costing America

Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci explore the complexities of the US conflict with Iran, analyzing Trump's transactional and often contradictory approach against the neoconservative and Israeli agendas. They examine the military's limited success versus the significant political and economic fallout, including rising oil prices and a disillusioned Iranian populace. The discussion critiques the US administration's lack of coherent strategy and foresight, ultimately predicting a costly, unproductive outcome for the West despite tactical wins for players like Netanyahu and Putin.

Mar 09, 202645 minEp. 166

165. Why Trump Fired Noem and the Forever War Presidency

Will Trump put boots on the ground in Iran? Has JD Vance already made the mistake that will end his political career? And will this war become another tax on American citizens? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more Listen to “Becoming Trump”. Unpack how Donald Trump was made: hidden family history, New York legal battles, ruthless mentors, reality-TV reinvention, and his path to the White House. Sign up to listen here. Sign up to our free newsletter he...

Mar 05, 202653 minEp. 165

164. Iran’s Leader Dead: What’s Trump’s Next Move?

Is there a secret strategy behind Trump’s Iran attack? What happens now that Trump won’t put boots on the ground? And, why we can’t ignore this week’s senate race in Texas. Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more. Listen to “Becoming Trump" Unpack how Donald Trump was made: hidden family history, New York legal battles, ruthless mentors, reality-TV reinvention, and his path to the White House. Sign up to listen here. Sign up to our free newsletter here I...

Mar 02, 202640 minEp. 164

163. TRUMP STRIKES IRAN - ARE WE AT WAR?

How have the US and Israel justified striking Iran? What is Trump’s long term objective? How is Iran responding? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more. Listen to “Becoming Trump”. Unpack how Donald Trump was made: hidden family history, New York legal battles, ruthless mentors, reality-TV reinvention, and his path to the White House. ⁠Sign up to listen here ⁠⁠Sign up to our free newsletter here⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠@RestPoliti...

Feb 28, 202648 minEp. 163

162. The Missing Epstein Files: Who Do They Protect?

Could missing pages of the Epstein files bring down the Trump administration? Were the pages lawfully withheld? And what did Trump's State of the Union's speech achieve? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more. Instagram: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠therestispoliticsus@goalhanger.com⁠⁠ Listen to “Becoming Trump”. Unpack how Donald Trump was made: hidden family history, New York legal battles, ruthless mentors, reality-TV rei...

Feb 26, 202646 minEp. 162

Becoming Trump: Family Secrets, Roy Cohn and How to Be A Killer

How did a childhood built on family secrets, privilege, and paranoia shape Donald Trump’s worldview? What did Roy Cohn teach him about attacking, denying, and never apologising? And how did a discrimination case he didn’t win become his first “victory”? To hear the full episode, sign up at therestispoliticsus.com Join Katty and Anthony for the first episode of "Becoming Trump". New Episodes every Wednesday. Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠therestispoliti...

Feb 24, 202625 min

161. Trump’s Plan to Defy the Supreme Court

Will Trump's new tariffs be terminal for the Republicans? Who’s really going to foot the bill for Trump’s latest round of tariffs? And what was America's role in Mexico's cartel crackdown? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more. Listen to “Becoming Trump”. Unpack how Donald Trump was made: hidden family history, New York legal battles, ruthless mentors, reality-TV reinvention, and his path to the White House. Sign up to listen here on Wednesday . ⁠Sign ...

Feb 23, 202639 minEp. 161

160. TRUMP’S TARIFFS RULED ILLEGAL

The Supreme Court's 6-3 decision invalidates $175 billion worth of Trump's tariffs, limiting presidential authority to use national emergency declarations for taxation and reinforcing Congress's role. While messy for refunds, this ruling is seen as a repudiation of Trumpism and executive overreach, although Trump is expected to continue his erratic behavior and shift towards personal financial gain rather than abandoning his aggressive stance. The decision also highlights the tariffs' failure to boost US manufacturing, impacting global confidence in the US.

Feb 20, 202633 minEp. 160

159. The Royal Arrest: Why Trump's Epstein Problem Won't Go Away

The discussion begins with Prince Andrew's arrest over the Epstein files, drawing stark comparisons between the UK's legal accountability and the perceived lack thereof for powerful US figures like Les Wexner and even Donald Trump. The hosts delve into how Trump's unique control over the Republican party, his personal financial interests, and his "ungovernable" nature complicate midterm strategies. They predict that Republicans might only challenge Trump after a significant electoral loss, amidst a broader "throw the bums out" sentiment in American politics.

Feb 19, 202642 minEp. 159

158. Who’s Really Running Trump’s Foreign Policy?

This episode delves into the nuances of Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Security Conference, revealing a MAGA-aligned foreign policy message despite its warmer delivery. The hosts also examine the early stages of the 2028 presidential race, with numerous Democratic hopefuls auditioning on the world stage, sparking debate over the appropriateness of such displays. Furthermore, the discussion uncovers the true state of the US economy, questioning the narrative of a "soft landing" and analyzing the impact of Trump's tariffs and the rising corruption index on everyday Americans and upcoming midterm elections.

Feb 16, 202640 minEp. 158

157. When Will Trump Stop Protecting The “Epstein Class”?

The hosts unpack new revelations from the Epstein files, focusing on Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's alleged lies about his past contact with Jeffrey Epstein, including a visit to Epstein's private island after his conviction. They then pivot to examine the US immigration system, highlighting the case of an Irish citizen held in harsh ICE detention conditions despite legal status, discussing racial disparities in enforcement and the system's impact on human rights and the economy. The episode also explores the political tribalism hindering accountability in both scandals.

Feb 11, 202643 minEp. 157

156. Trump vs Bad Bunny: How The Super Bowl Could Cost MAGA

Katy Kay and David McCloskey discuss the Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny, focusing on the MAGA outrage it sparked and its broader implications for the Hispanic vote, particularly in Texas. They then pivot to examining how the Trump administration and its allies intertwine national security policy with personal financial gain, citing examples from potential Russia-Ukraine deals and Middle Eastern business ventures, and the challenges of proving a quid pro quo.

Feb 09, 202643 minEp. 156

155. The Real Story Behind Trump’s ICE “Retreat”

Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci delve into the complex political landscape, examining Donald Trump's recent actions, including his retreat on ICE policies and renewed claims of rigged elections. They discuss the Washington Post's significant layoffs, attributing its decline to management failures and Jeff Bezos's shifting allegiances. The episode also explores the speculative but intriguing connections between Jeffrey Epstein's activities and potential Russian intelligence operations, debating the evidence and implications for both US and UK politics.

Feb 05, 202645 minEp. 155

154. Epstein Files: Is Trump Really Cleared?

This episode delves into the latest Epstein files dump, discussing what new information was revealed and the implications for powerful figures, along with the notable failure to protect victims' identities. It also covers the unexpected Democratic victory in a Texas special election and its potential impact on upcoming midterms, before examining former President Trump's renewed claims of a rigged 2020 election and the controversial actions of Tulsi Gabbard in Georgia.

Feb 03, 202645 minEp. 154

153. Inside Europe’s Standoff with Trump | The Norwegian Prime Minister

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre details Europe's response to Donald Trump's unconventional diplomacy, including his Nobel Peace Prize claims and the Greenland territorial dispute. He discusses how these events have spurred European countries, like Norway, to significantly increase defense spending and enhance national preparedness, acknowledging Trump's role as a "wake-up call." Støre also addresses the critical need for sustained Western support for Ukraine against Russian aggression and the complex dynamics of transatlantic trust and NATO's enduring importance.

Jan 29, 202630 minEp. 153

152. Minnesota Shooting: Is Trump Going To Back Down?

Hosts Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci delve into the tragic Minnesota shooting involving ICE and an American citizen, discussing the Trump administration's initial framing as a culture war, which then backfired. They explore the rare Republican and corporate condemnations, the ongoing influence of Stephen Miller, and the potential political fallout. The conversation also critiques the Democrats' disorganized reaction and links the domestic instability to the erosion of the US dollar and America's global standing.

Jan 26, 202643 minEp. 152

151. The Greenland Crisis, NATO’s Future, and ‘Reality TV’ Diplomacy with Senator Chris Coons

In an exclusive interview, Senator Chris Coons details the deep disappointment and alarm among Danes and Greenlanders regarding Trump's proposal to buy Greenland, straining long-standing US alliances. He explores the call for Republican courage against Trump's actions, the need for a unified European stand, and the critical importance of global partnerships against adversaries like China and Russia. Coons also addresses the Democratic Party's struggle to convey its message and the extensive, yet often overshadowed, legal efforts to constrain the Trump administration, emphasizing the long-term challenge of rebuilding international trust.

Jan 24, 202618 minEp. 151

150. Trump Insults NATO Troops

Anthony Scaramucci and Alastair Campbell react strongly to Donald Trump's disrespectful remarks about NATO troops, which they attribute to his deep insecurity and need for humiliation. They provide a psychological analysis of Trump's behavior and discuss the challenges and strategies for international leaders in confronting him. The hosts also explore the future of NATO and express concerns about the normalization of Trump's actions by media and business.

Jan 23, 202629 minEp. 150

149. Did Trump Blink on Greenland? | Live From Davos

Did Trump really blink on Greenland? How did European leaders respond in the room? Can historic alliances be trusted? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci live in Davos as they answer all these questions and more. Instagram: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠therestispoliticsus@goalhanger.com⁠⁠ Producer: Fiona Douglas, India Dunkley Video Editor: Kieron Leslie Social Producer: Charlie Johnson Senior Producer: Callum Hill Head of Digital: Sam Oakley Exec Producer: Tom Whi...

Jan 21, 202628 minEp. 149

148. Greenland, Rogan, and The Dawn of Putin’s America

Should Europe stand up to Trump over Greenland, or just wait him out? Has Trump lost Joe Rogan’s endorsement? And, are ICE tactics costing public support? Plus, an exclusive interview with congresswoman Madeline Dean, fresh off the plane from Denmark's US diplomat meeting. Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci as they answer all these questions and more. Become a Founding Member: Go deeper into US politics every week with ad-free listening, members-only miniseries, early access to live show tick...

Jan 19, 202648 minEp. 148

147. Trump's Crash Out: Losing America's Workers?

This episode delves into Donald Trump's increasingly erratic political behavior, including controversial actions and populist economic proposals. Veteran Republican strategist Stuart Stevens and Anthony Scaramucci examine the decline of traditional Republican principles, the party's current messaging struggles, and the profound impact of Trump's personality cult. They also discuss the Supreme Court's tariff decision and make predictions for the 2028 Republican nomination, reflecting on the challenges of reclaiming the party's original values.

Jan 15, 202639 minEp. 147

146. Trump vs Iran: Will He Strike?

What is in the ‘Donroe Doctrine’? Will Trump launch an attack on Iran? How is Stephen Miller reshaping ICE? This week, Anthony Scaramucci is joined by political consultant, and former GOP insider, Rick Wilson. Become a Founding Member: Go deeper into US politics every week with ad-free listening, members-only miniseries, early access to live show tickets and a bonus members-only Q&A podcast every week. Sign up at ⁠therestispoliticsus.com⁠ Sign up to our free newsletter Instagram: ⁠⁠@RestPoli...

Jan 12, 202645 minEp. 146

145. The Minnesota ICE Shooting, Trump’s Greenland Gambit, and Rubio vs Miller

The episode delves into the Minneapolis ICE shooting, highlighting the extreme polarization in US media and the controversy surrounding the incident. It examines President Trump's aggressive leadership, including his 'get rough' directive to ICE agents and his administration's 'mafia-like' approach to power. The discussion also covers the contentious foreign policy actions in Venezuela and the Greenland 'gambit,' analyzing their strategic intent as diversions from domestic issues and the impact on international alliances, while exploring the internal 'civil war' tearing apart the MAGA movement.

Jan 08, 202646 minEp. 145

144. This is Trump's Plan for Venezuela

This episode delves into the legal and geopolitical ramifications of President Trump's intervention in Venezuela, including the controversial capture of Nicolas Maduro and the US's oil-driven motives. The hosts analyze the administration's vague plans for Venezuelan reconstruction and the emerging "FAFO" (F*** Around and Find Out) doctrine, which sees Trump threatening intervention in other countries like Cuba, Mexico, and Iran. They also explore the internal dissent within the MAGA coalition regarding this new interventionist foreign policy.

Jan 06, 202642 minEp. 144
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