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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 ...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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...
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.
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...
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.
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.