Nada Smiljanic

Jonathan Freedland speaks with New York Times journalist Jonathan Swan about how Donald Trump’s second presidential term differs from his first. With former political challengers and institutional lawyers less willing or able to resist, Trump is portrayed as an increasingly imperial president using executive power to reshape the economy, immigration policy and the presidency itself, with implications for the United States and the wider world.

The podcast examines whether the rising profile of left-wing Democrats, including Zohran Mamdani and Abdul El-Sayed, signals that democratic socialism has moved from the political fringe toward the mainstream. It considers growing calls for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to run for president in 2028 and whether this movement can attract the swing voters Democrats need to win nationally.

Fresh US strikes on Iran proceed despite indications that a peace agreement could be nearing. Donald Trump faces intensifying criticism from Republicans over a proposed plan that reportedly includes major US concessions. Discussion focuses on whether a negotiated settlement remains possible amid escalating military action.

The reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial must be drained again after costly efforts to maintain its appearance failed, prompting Donald Trump to blame vandalism despite growing embarrassment over the project’s expense and symbolism, discussed by Jonathan Freedland and Arwa Mahdawi.

Marks 10 years since the far-right murder of MP Jo Cox, describing her political commitments, the circumstances of her killing during the Brexit campaign, and the continuing rise of far-right extremism. Kim Leadbeater reflects on lessons learned and her work through the Jo Cox Foundation and in her sister’s former constituency.

Andy Burnham campaigns in Wigan and Leigh ahead of the Makerfield byelection, with the outcome viewed as potentially influential for the Labour Party’s direction as Pippa Crerar joins him speaking to local voters.

As the US approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Donald Trump shifts the national focus toward himself. Jonathan Freedland and Yoni Appelbaum examine declining patriotism among Americans and the political forces shaping public sentiment.

Ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, commentary focuses on Donald Trump’s efforts to center the celebrations on himself amid growing public unease about national identity. Jonathan Freedland speaks with Yoni Appelbaum about declining patriotism and the political implications surrounding the milestone.

Andy Burnham outlines proposals to devolve power, create a No 10 in the North, and regenerate neglected towns, prompting comparisons to earlier levelling-up plans and raising questions about their potential impact.

The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool must be drained again after an expensive effort to keep its water “American flag blue” failed, with Donald Trump blaming vandalism for the issue. Jonathan Freedland and Arwa Mahdawi discuss how the repeated failure has become an embarrassing symbol of an image‑focused presidency and a costly project that continues to draw scrutiny.

Donald Trump signs a 14‑point agreement with Iran aimed at ending the war, prompting him to shift diplomatic focus toward pursuing peace in Ukraine. Discussion explores the viability of the deal, the motivations behind Trump’s redirected attention, and the challenges facing any potential Ukraine peace initiative.

Donald Trump signs a 14‑point agreement with Iran aimed at ending a war he helped initiate and shifts focus toward pursuing peace in Ukraine. Jenna Amatulli speaks with Andrew Roth about the likelihood of the deal’s success and the motivations behind Trump’s renewed attention to Ukraine.

Donald Trump’s use of major sporting events as a political platform raises concerns about potential negative effects on competitions such as the World Cup, with investigative analysis exploring his influence across football, UFC and basketball and evaluating whether it helps or harms the sports involved.

Donald Trump’s growing presence at major sporting events, including football, UFC and basketball, is examined through a conversation between Jenna Amatulli and investigative reporter Karim Zidan, exploring whether his influence could undermine the 2026 World Cup. They discuss concerns about politicisation of sports, international team experiences when entering the US and the broader implications of Trump using major athletic stages as platforms for political messaging.

Discussion centers on Keir Starmer’s intention to remain prime minister while considering his long-term legacy, including potential action on tech regulation, a social media ban, and efforts to reset relations with the EU and on defense. Commentary also explores Andy Burnham’s potential influence within this evolving political landscape.

California’s chaotic primary elections produced several unexpected outcomes, while establishment-aligned Democrats performed well and a Trump-endorsed candidate fell short. Jonathan Freedland and Sam Levin discuss the major results and broader implications from the year’s busiest primary day.

California’s chaotic primary elections produced several unexpected outcomes, including notable upsets, while establishment Democrats performed strongly and a Trump‑backed candidate failed to advance. Jonathan Freedland and Sam Levin discuss key insights from the busiest primary day of the year, highlighting trends shaping the political landscape and the influence of high‑spending tech billionaires.

Pippa Crerar accompanies Andy Burnham on the Makerfield byelection campaign trail, speaking with voters in Wigan and Leigh as his potential victory gains significance for the Labour Party. The full list of candidates across multiple parties is provided as the contest approaches.

Donald Trump’s conflicting statements and actions on negotiations with Iran create significant uncertainty around a potential peace agreement, with claims of progress followed by US military strikes. A draft deal circulated among allies illustrates ongoing volatility as tensions remain high. Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group outlines how Trump’s shifting positions undermine prospects for ending the conflict.

Donald Trump’s conflicting statements on ending the US-Iran war created uncertainty as claims of progress toward a peace agreement were followed by US strikes on southern Iran. A draft deal circulated later in the week left negotiations in a fragile position. Jonathan Freedland speaks with Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group about the forces influencing Trump’s shifting approach and the consequences for the evolving US-Iran negotiations.

UK vetting officials raised concerns about Peter Mandelson’s links with senior figures in China, Russia and Israel, leading to a recommendation against granting clearance. A parliamentary committee criticised the government for not fully meeting demands to release documents related to his appointment. Statements from Hayman’s spokesperson and the Cabinet Office rejected any improper connections and affirmed compliance with the disclosure order.