US of Ed: Recent Episodes
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Ed Blakely has served in different capacities under a succession of presidential administrations, has guided government policy on urban planning and is a widely cited academic. My name is Sean Britten, and each week, Ed and I have a chat about what’s the latest news out of the United States, talking everything politics, planning and policy from sea to shining sea. US of Ed typically talks issues on a week by week basis, but check out some of our more timeless specials: SPECIAL: MLK's legacy and the issues of Black America: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=184046 US of Ed on Guns in America: Part One: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=285335 US of Ed on Guns in America: Part Two: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=285341 SPECIAL: South of the Border: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=372708 SPECIAL: Crafting Innovative Places: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=386032 SPECIAL: Who Killed the American Dream?: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=386003 SPECIAL: Climate Emergency: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=386003 SPECIAL: The Impeachment Process: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=433201 SPECIAL: Ruth Bader Ginsburg: https://player.whooshkaa.com/episode?id=738156
Sadly, it's my duty to inform you that my longtime friend and collaborator Ed Blakely passed away after a short battle with pancreatic cancer on Sunday, September 7th, at the age of 87 years old. I'd just like to use this platform one last time to share my thoughts on his life and his passing, and the time I knew him. Thank you again for listening.
More from Ed: https://www.edwardjblakely.com/
More from Sean: https://seanebritten.com/
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"This is my hobby, my heart... I love the United States of America."
This will unfortunately be the last chat that Ed and I have under this banner. For the past couple of months, Ed has been suffering with deteriorating health due to pancreatic cancer. It has been his desire to continue on as normal and we believed we would have more time together but over the past week his health has taken a downward turn. It's been a wonderful run over the past 15 years but all things must come to an end.
More from Ed: https://www.edwardjblakely.com/
More from Sean: https://seanebritten.com/
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"This is a wakeup call for many Americans who thought, it doesn't make any difference."
The Trump regime is attempting to secure itself more power this week, with fresh attacks on top officials at the Federal Reserve and the CDC. Meanwhile, Trump continues to push for crackdowns by military forces in Democrat-led cities following efforts in Washington DC. Also discussing the Epstein files, the Minneapolis shooting, ICE, gerrymandering efforts, and attacks on the Smithsonian.
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"These are just the bread and circus acts, but I'm glad to see the American people are resistant... I don't think this charade can go on much longer."
Meetings with Vladmir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy have again come to nothing as Trump, who once promised an end to the Ukraine conflict within 24 hours, blunders through negotiations. Meanwhile, Washington DC looks like a city under military occupation while the White House hints at interventions into other US cities. Also, the latest on the Epstein files, Gaza, Texas and gerrymandering, and the Trump administration's targeting of transgender youth.
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"He has a sore head so God only knows what will happen."
Trump has instigated a military and federal takeover of the city of Washington DC with a crackdown based on fictional crime figures, and threatened to do the same to other Democrat-led cities. A distraction from Epstein or a sign of things to come, or both? Meanwhile, plans for Trump and Putin to meet next week to divy up territory in Ukraine, without the input of Ukraine itself. Also discussing Gaza, delays on China tariffs, foreign aid, DOGE, and marriage equality back in the Supreme Court.
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"You don't cover up this much not to have a cover-up."
The Epstein saga continues as Ghislaine Maxwell is transferred to a minimum security prison following her apparent cooperation with the Trump administration and the Clintons are subpoenaed for a congressional probe. Meanwhile, Trump launches attacks on the Bureau of Labor Statistics after their numbers show his approach has crippled jobs growth. Also discussing ICE recruitment, Gaza occupation, Ukraine, and the Justice Department's pursuit of Trump's political enemies.
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"She should name Democrats and Republicans, and let's have a fresh take at this democracy."
The Trump administration is attempting to take the wind out of the Epstein controversy, meeting with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell and raising the possibility of a presidential pardon. Meanwhile, Trump has made the trip to Scotland to cheat at golf and secure a heavily lopsided trade deal with the European Union. Also discussing US beef exports to Australia, the Manhattan shooting, Pete Hegseth, Ukraine, Gaza, and more.
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"They're there to protect him. Not the nation, not the truth, not what's good, not what's sacred, but just him."
Barack Obama, MLK Jr., the Washington Commanders / Redskins, even Hillary Clinton's emails, all things that Donald Trump would rather discuss than Jeffrey Epstein. But the Epstein story isn't going away, with reports Pam Bondi had confirmed to Trump months ago his name appeared in the mountains of evidence he and Republicans are now refusing to release. Ed and Sean discuss the latest, along with tariffs, migrant abuses, Alina Habba, corruption, and the firing of Stephen Colbert.
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"He knew his pictures were in there, he knew his name was in the log... this is one that really baffles me."
Trump is scrambling to find a way to get his supporters to forget previous promises in regards to the Epstein Files and his own involvement with the alleged sex trafficker. But while Republicans and MAGA influencers are falling into line, a great deal of his supporters are finally becoming more sceptical. Meanwhile, economists and the rest of the world struggle to make sense of Trump's constantly shifting tariffs and attacks on the Federal Reserve. Also discussing attacks on citizenship, Ukraine, Israel, and Australia's meeting with China.
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"Representatives used to represent their constituents. Now they represent pools of money."
Over a hundred dead and many more missing due to flooding in Texas, with part of the blame being directed at the lack of warning due to Trump's cuts to the NWS. But Trump is riding on a high this week thanks to the passage of his Big Beautiful Bill, cutting taxes on the rich, severing federal loan programs, and funnelling massive amounts of cash into his own personal army in the form of ICE. We also discuss the Epstein list burial, federal worker layoffs, the latest from Gaza, and TACO Trump's trade war.
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"Every single family in America is affected."
The Senate has passed Trump's Big, Beautiful Bill, sending it back to the House for final approval in spite of stated reservation, eschewing all responsibility for its effects on the American people. Meanwhile, Trump is looking to expand his targeting of immigrants by revoking the status of some while floating the possibility of denaturalising those who already have citizenship. Also discussing Iran and Israel, bankruptcy talk for Nebraska, and the vicious campaign against Zohran Mamdani.
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"Trump is one thing, the US government is another and the US people are another. Each of these groups is fractured, including Trump."
A decisive bombing of three nuclear sites and a shaky ceasefire in the Iran / Israel / US conflict this week with allies lining up to praise Trump's actions. But is it genuine admiration or fears about what the mad king might do next that's driving world leaders? Meanwhile, tensions escalate over ICE crackdowns with the lines between cops and criminals becoming increasingly blurred. Also discussing the Supreme Court's internal war, Mahmoud Khalil, tariffs, plans to log protected forests, and the New York mayoral race.
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"Intimidation, intimidation, intimidation... Sooner or later, people crack. Let's not crack."
Donald Trump's military parade through Washington DC has gone off with a whimper rather than a bang, largely drowned out by the colour and defiance of the 'No Kings' protests scheduled in cities across the US for the same day. Tensions in the US and abroad continue to ratchet up, however, with politically motivated assassinations, arrests, and the possibility that the US will be drawn into yet another war between Israel and Iran. We also discuss the G7 Summit, war plans for Greenland, and roadblocks for the Big, Beautiful Bill.
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"You'd almost wish he was a better dictator, there'd at least be a gameplan there but there's nothing."
Wild scenes in Los Angeles as confrontations with ICE agents rounding up immigrants in parts of the city has escalated to full scale warfare, with journalists targeted by LAPD and President Trump deploying the National Guard and Marines to the city. But first, looking at the developing situation in the Middle East where Israel appears to be preparing for a strike against Iran. Also discussing Trump cutting off FEMA funding, the Trump / Musk feud, trade negotiations, and RFK Jr. enacting his anti-vax agenda.
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In spite of claims from Trump Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that there was no scenario in which wrongfully deported man Kilmar Abrego García would be returned to the United States, in breaking news this morning that is exactly what has happened. Facing charges of human smuggling over a 2022 incident that police formerly declined to pursue, however, is this a win for due process or the Trump administration trying to retroactively justify its glaring error? We take a look at this developing story as well as the very public breakup of Donald Trump and billionaire backer Elon Musk.
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"They're not guilty of anything. They may be here illegally, sure, deport them, but treat them humanely."
A terrorist attack in Colorado has led to the arrest of not just the perpetrator but his wife and five children as well, living illegally in the United States, with attempts to streamline deportation leading to yet another court battle. Meanwhile, Trump's Big, Beautiful Bill has seen fallout from some surprising quarters but it hasn't slowed Republican attempts to make cuts from the social safety net. Also discussing trade war with China, Ukraine, white South Africans being welcomed, and plans for a national citizen database.
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"You're asking the House to give up its power, you're asking the Senate to give up its power, and you're asking to dethrone the judiciary. What mad person would vote for that?"
In the wee hours of the morning, House Republicans convened to pass Trump's Big Beautiful Bill through to the Senate. But not only does the bill knock a $3.8 trillion hole in the budget and take from the poorest Americans to extend Trump's tax cuts, it's also been specifically tailored to keep Trump from facing consequences for defying the courts. Ed and Sean discuss, along with the latest on tariffs, RFK Jr., Pete Hegseth, war with Harvard, Gaza, Ukraine, and more.
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"Trump is under siege, he's underwater, and let's hope he'll be under the table soon."
News this week that former president Joe Biden is suffering from an aggressive form of cancer raises the question of how the diagnosis was missed while he was still in the White House. Trump is set to be flying high in spite of protests his acceptance of a new luxury 747 is unconstitutional while the FAA continues struggling to deliver safe air travel and his administration now appears to be losing entire plane loads of deported immigrants. Also discussing Trump's tax and immigration package, impeachment, Gaza, and the ousting of Elon Musk.
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"I fear that this is going to be the largest constitutional crisis ever."
The first American pope, Pope Leo XIV, has ascended to the head of the Catholic Church in Rome and Ed just so happens to be in Italy to catch the historic moment! Meanwhile, back on American shores, accusations of open corruption are becoming a commonplace feature of the Trump presidency with more gifts and offers showered on the grateful grifter-in-chief. Also this week discussing Iran, Trump's Big, Beautiful Bill on tax and immigration, suspending Habeas Corpus, pharmaceutical prices and more!
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"Trump is very large on the global stage. The good thing about that is it's making people wake up, the United States can no longer rule the world."
Coming off the back of a similar result in Canada, does a thumping win for the Australia Labor Party and rejection of 'Temu Trump' Opposition Leader Peter Dutton indicate a global rejection of Trumpian politics? Other nations are also jumping at the chance to step into the gap on science and trade that American leadership has left vacant. Also touching on the White House budget proposal, immigration, Israel, India and Pakistan, Marco Rubio, Trump's ongoing mental decline, and Maine's win in court for transgender kids.
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"If he can make a shilling, a buck, a penny out of this, he will, and the American people have to say, he must go."
Trump has been accused of doing "the most corrupt thing any president has ever done" after creating a buying blitz for his $Trump meme coin this week but for most Americans it appears to have flown under the radar as just another day in Trumpland. Meanwhile, Trump's war on illegal, and legal, immigrants ramps up with the arrest of two judges and orders for ICE agents to invade homes without warrants if they believe they're harbouring potential arrests. Also discussing Pete Hegseth, tariffs, Ukraine, Greenland plans, and an election win for the Canadian Liberal party.
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"Clearly, if we had a congress, he'd be out. That's what impeachment is about."
Team Trump continues to test the limits of their power, this week defying a court order and arguing that a president's executive order overrules the power of the courts. Hamas have suspended hostage releases as they claim Israel is failing to abide by the terms of the ceasefire, leading to Trump threatening to unleash hell. Also discussing Elon Musk and DOGE's increasing hold on power, Ukraine, tariffs, Guantanamo Bay, Tulsi Gabbard, and more.
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"An inability to have thoughtful people running the show is going to lead to even more disasters."
67 people have died in an aircraft collision over Washington D.C. and another seven dead in a crash in Philadelphia as questions arise as to just how much Trump's crusade against the FAA and other federal agencies had to do with the incidents. Meanwhile, Trump has doubled down on his proposal about relocating Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip with a suggestion that the US could take over managing the contested area during reconstruction efforts with an eye to ownership. Also discussing Elon Musk and DOGE, Ukraine, tariffs, and the latest on confirmations.
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"This chaos, some of it is on purpose, a lot of it accidental, and all of it has to line Trump's pockets."
Trump has sown chaos in the economy, federal agencies, international relationships, and the lives of the American people in his first ten days in office, some through carelessness, some it would appear as a deliberate smokescreen. Discussing the crackdown on illegal immigrants and its effects, the federal funding freeze, Greenland, firings, and more.
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"This is the beginning of a total authoritarian government."
Donald Trump has hit the ground running, as expected, with day one executive orders targeting immigration, climate action, federal workers, trans individuals, and much more. Elon Musk is drawing fire away from the commander-in-chief, however, after the performance of a blatant Nazi salute in front of adoring crowds of billionaires and political backers at Trump's inauguration. Meanwhile, the Gaza ceasefire holds in spite of some uncertainty, Ukraine holds its breath, and social media owners have handed Donald Trump a powerful propaganda machine.
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"The United States is a fragile, big, important entity."
Ed and Sean are back for 2025 ahead of the inauguration which will see Donald Trump installed as President of the United States for a second term. We discuss some of the things we've missed over the new year break, such as Trump's new fixations on Canada, Greenland, and Panama, the Trump nothingburger sentencing and January 6th report, Gaza ceasefire, California fires and terror attacks. And as more people are switching off than ever before, we ask what is even the role of media in a nation where no one’s listening?
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"This is pre-Civil War-like, I think the nation is changed forever."
As 2024 draws to a close, we stand at the precipice of what could prove to be one of the most consequential periods in human history. On the hunt to make some sense out of it all, Ed and Sean have a final word on the election campaign and Biden's stewardship, as well as the battle over reproductive rights, gun control, and the unending conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. We'll see you in 2025, have a Merry Christmas, a happy holidays, and enjoy the fireworks on New Year's Eve because there could be many more to come...
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"[Trump] wants to go to war with Iran, they don't want to give him that opportunity."
Israel and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have acceded to a 60-day ceasefire agreement backed by the United States, with the Lebanese military to act as a mediator in the coming days. But with Hezbollah bloodied but not broken, what are the chances for a longer peace? And what does it mean for Gaza? Also touching on the latest news about appointments to Trump's cabinet.
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"It is so scary, and so unAmerican."
Trump's dream team continues to take shape, but dogged by accusations of sexual misconduct and unfitness for their roles it remains to be seen if the Republican-led Senate will take a stand on appointments or simply let Trump have his way. Meanwhile, ominous plans begin to be put into motion for Trump's promised ouster of illegal immigrants. Also discussing businesses bracing for tariffs, Ukraine and Russia's nuclear threat, Gaza, and Biden's judicial appointments in our last regular chat of the year.
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"A lot of good, strong, smart people will be leaving the United States."
A week on from the shock re-election of former president Donald Trump and a great deal of people and institutions are still reeling as plans are cemented for his second term. Unable to stay away, Ed and Sean look at where it went wrong for Democrats and the rule of law, and how some are planning on fighting back, plus controversial picks for Trump's cabinet, Israel, Ukraine, and Elon Musk's bizarre new role at the heart of the administration.
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"We lost the election but we are not defeated."
Defying a late surge in the polls for Harris, American voters have returned Donald Trump to the White House with a historical win that has made him only the second president to be voted to two non-consecutive terms and the first Republican to win the popular vote in twenty years. So, what happens now?
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"We're voting for Kamala to keep the democracy."
In the final days of the election campaign, polls continue to run on a razor's edge and the United States appears more divided than the days of the Civil War when the two sides were literally shooting at one another. Are there any closing arguments to be made that really matter? Also discussing the fallout from Trump's Madison Square Garden rally, threats against a free and fair election mounting, Gaza, and Bird Flu.
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"I think you ought to get your divining stick out."
The November election is only a couple of weeks away and polls continue to show a result too close to call with nothing having a real impact on the Trump campaign in spite of his many, many, many scandals, slips, and absences. Meanwhile, Russia and China, very possibly the real winners from this US election cycle, have touted their blossoming friendship and a new 'Just World Order'. Also discussing JD Vance's absence from the race and potential results in the House and Senate, Rudy Giuliani, intelligence leaks, Ukraine, and infant mortality on the increase.
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"They thought they could take her down but she stood up and fired right back."
Kamala Harris steams ahead with interviews and new policies this week while Donald Trump dances and amps up his fascist rhetoric, so how the hell does this election still look so close? Meanwhile, the US is getting itself more involved with Israel, not less, apart from threats over humanitarian aid that conveniently pushes the problem past the November election. Also discussing hurricane recovery, China's military drills, Ukraine, early voting, and the reopening of Three Mile Island.
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"Florida is no longer habitable."
At time of recording, Hurricane Milton is closing in on Florida shores with devastating winds and storm surges predicted. How did it go so wrong so fast, and how has partisan politics derailed the response? Kamala Harris has been on a media blitz this week, appealing to those less engaged in politics as well as tried-and-true audiences, but does she risk turning off progressive with her 'strongwoman' approach? Also discussing the latest jobs report, the US deficit, October 7th, and a new term for the Supreme Court.
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"If delivery counts, Vance wins. If honesty counts, Walz wins."
The VP presidential debate this week appeared more substantive, and certainly more civil, than anything we've seen lately, but does it really matter? And do new polls reflect the performances. Meanwhile, Hurricane Helene has carved a swathe through southern states, leaving at least 120 dead and billions of dollars of damage in her wake. Also discussing the latest from Israel, Jack Smith's case against Donald Trump, the dockworkers strike, and latest from the campaign trail.
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"We're not going to spread it around with handouts, we're going to spread it around with opportunity."
Kamala Harris has laid out her economic plans on the campaign trail this week, looking toward investment and manufacturing, as Donald Trump lurches from crisis to crisis. But first, the leaders of Japan, India, and Australia have met with Joe Biden in Washington to discuss tensions with China in the Indo-Pacific. Also discussing Israel's assault on Lebanon, the death of Marcellus Williams, avoiding government shutdown, and Republican efforts to confuse the vote in November.
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"What do they say in the Bible? You reap as you sow?"
A second alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump barely raises eyebrows this week but not everything surrounding Trump is so harmless. Residents of Springfield, Ohio, have found themselves under siege by bomb threats and neo-Nazis following Trump's claims of Haitian immigrants in the town taking and eating people's pets. Meanwhile, in a move that sounds straight out of a conspiracy theory, Mossad have targeted Hezbollah's communication network with explosives hidden inside pagers and radios as tensions reach new heights in the Middle East. Also discussing the potential for a government shutdown, IVF, rate cuts, and a disappointing endorsement rejection for Kamala Harris.
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"She acted more like a president than anyone I've seen since Obama."
Baby executions, pets being eaten, a failing nation, Donald Trump's vision of America contrasted sharply with Kamala Harris' sense of optimism and forethought in this week's presidential debate. Ed and Sean break down some of the issues discussed, as well as a big time endorsement for Harris, sentencing in Donald Trump's fraud case being pushed past the election, Russia's influence on the rightwing media sphere, and the latest from Gaza.
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"She's like the little bird flying under mother's wing, and she's just outside mother's wing, she's flying on her own, and gaining wind."
The Harris campaign has swung into policy announcement mode, with a sweep of new measures for encouraging small business. But with suggestions Harris needs to do more to distinguish herself from the Biden administration, how does she showcase her differences while still demonstrating she is a safe pair of hands to those who desire continuation? Also discussing criticism of Netanyahu in the ceasefire process, Nippon Steel, Trump's Arlington disaster, and the Apalachee High shooting in Georgia.
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"We're really pushing against a ceiling here... she's got to reach deep into her cookie jar and pull out more cookies."
Officially the Democrats' nomination for president in 2024, Kamala Harris continues to gain in the polls but Republicans are doing all that they can to keep people from voting with voter purges, lawsuits, and intimidation. Meanwhile, Jack Smith is doing his best to salvage his January 6th case after the Supreme Courts' decision on sweeping presidential immunity. Also discussing the leadup to the debate, RFK Jr dropping out of the race, and the latest from Gaza and Ukraine.
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"This is a movement, and I'm saying movement here beyond political parties."
Democrats have come together to pull for Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention this week, so just what kind of election platform are we seeing come together as far as policy is concerned? Also, attempts to impeach Joe Biden have died not with a bang but with a whimper as Republicans have found nothing to substantiate allegations of bribery or fraud. Also discussing the latest on lowering drug costs, Gaza, Ukraine and Russia, the NFL's concussion settlement, and RKF Jr rumoured to drop out in the coming week.
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"This campaign now is the Happy Meal, they're announcing happy happy happy, better better better, don't fight all that old, ugly stuff."
Kamala Harris continues to make massive gains over Donald Trump in the polls, but is there a risk of complacency setting in if more policies are not announced? Meanwhile, Ukraine has flipped the script on Russia and made an incursion into Russia territory to Putin's outrage. Also discussing the Iranian hack of the Trump campaign, Middle East talks, cancer moonshot, and fears officials may refuse to certify 2024 election results.
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"So if the nation's in danger, look to the coach."
It's official, the Democratic National Convention has nominated Kamala Harris unopposed as their presidential candidate for the 2024 election and she has announced Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running mate. While Donald Trump was hoping Joe Biden would somehow return to snatch back the nomination, he's got problems enough of his own to distract him with fresh bribery allegations. Also discussing Supreme Court reforms, closing a loophole on politicians who trade in stock, escalation in the Middle East, and race riots in the UK.
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"Americans are feeling positive... the first thing Kamala did in her first ad was talk about the things she's going to do."
The White House has announced anticipated reforms for the Supreme Court this week, including term limits and a binding code of conduct, but just how long before any of it can come into effect? Meanwhile, the Harris campaign is making great strides against her 'weird' opponent, but its still a long road ahead to the voting booths. Also discussing legal developments for 9/11 perpetrators, Israel and Iran, Venezuela, fires in Alberta, and the Olympics.
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"Black women are a very powerful force, and they've been on the sidelines since Obama."
After weeks of speculation and calls for him to drop out, Joe Biden has finally opted out of the 2024 presidential race. But not everyone is happy, with Republicans throwing everything at the wall to declare Biden bowing out as somehow illegal or, failing that, calling on him to resign. We discuss the campaign ahead for Kamala Harris plus latest on the Trump shooting, Mr Netanyahu goes to Washington, the Olympics, and the hottest day ever recorded on planet Earth thanks to climate change.
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"This is so super weird, I think I've withdrawn from reality here."
An apparent assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump wiped everything else from the headlines ahead of the Republican National Convention. As the dust settles it appears to have shifted the political landscape shockingly little but it remains to be seen whether Biden and Democrats can regain political momentum. Also discussing Trump's "Never Trumper" running mate, J.D. Vance, Aileen Cannon, Supreme Court reforms, more calls for Biden to drop out of the race, and Texas' massive power problem.
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"[Joe Biden] would be a marked man if he doesn't leave now."
In spite of a dismal debate performance and questions about his ability to do the job for four more years, Joe Biden has rejected calls to step down as the Democrats' nominee. NATO has met in Washington this week to celebrate its 75th anniversary and rally behind Ukraine right as Russia unleashes its deadliest wave of missile strikes in months. Also discussing the Epstein files, investigation into Clarence Thomas, the UK and French elections, Gaza, and Trump's pick for VP.
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"What we thought of as the United States of America is gone."
The US Supreme Court has come to a stunning decision to deliver US presidents' almost total immunity against any and all crimes committed while in office as long as they can be vaguely defined as "official acts" of the presidency, all but openly declaring allegiance to Donald Trump. This comes in the same week that the court has severely undercut the ability of government agencies to enforce regulations on individuals and corporations, and ruled that government officials, not unlike the Justices themselves, are free to accept "gratuities" on services rendered. Also discussing Joe Biden's dismal debate performance, Oklahoma requiring Bible studies in schools, and indictments for the slow response of Uvalde police during the 2022 shooting.
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"In Biden's case, his voters are there but they need to be compelled to vote given his age and given this kind of nagging position on Israel."
Joe Biden and Donald Trump are set to face up in the first of two scheduled debates with Team Trump already downplaying the likelihood of a good performance, but just how significant the event will be for voters remains to be seen. Meanwhile, whistleblower Julian Assange has returned to Australian shores following a plea deal that allowed him to escape further jail time. Also discussing a drop in illegal immigration, investment in rural water projects, Olympics, and the latest primaries.
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"What we are seeing is the professionals now sounding the alarm, that if perchance he becomes the president he will not have the mental stamina to perform the office."
Joe Biden is attempting to soften the blow of his latest attempts to turn back illegal border crossing by installing new protections for immigrant spouses of US citizens. Meanwhile, more people seem to be waking up to the increasing lapses in his opponent Donald Trump's already shaky mental acuity. Also discussing the latest on Gaza, China, water war between the US and Mexico, religion in schools, and the campaign trail.
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"Trump is trying to become president so he can abolish most of the things in the constitution and get out of all these charges."
A week on since Donald Trump became the first former president to be convicted on felony charges, fallout continues as Republicans scramble to justify and distract. Meanwhile, Joe Biden has sought to shore up perceived weakness on the issue of the southern border with an executive action to shut down the processing of asylum seekers. Also discussing reproductive rights, Ukraine, Gaza, Mexico's first female president, and latest from the campaign trail.
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"It's hard for me... to think of Americans wanting a convicted felon as President of the United States."
At time of recording, the jury in Trump's New York fraud case is deliberating on what will be a historical decision regardless of what they determine. Meanwhile, the Biden administration continues to throw its support behind Israel claiming their invasion of Rafah has failed to cross a "red line". Also this week discussing lifting restrictions on Cuba, climate change, mandatory service in the UK, and the latest from the election campaign.
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"The world has lost patience with Israel."
Karim Khan, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, has requested arrest warrants for three top Hamas leaders as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, just what are the implications? In New York, Donald Trump's hush money trial is set to wrap up next week but other legal cases are just beginning. Also this week discussing the death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi, the election campaign, and the UK's surprise election announcement.
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"Biden has an interesting dilemma on his hands, because this election is going to be close. So whatever group you lose may lose you the election."
Joe Biden is a busy man keeping those plates in the air this week, balancing policy with campaigning, as a new arms shipment to Israel runs contrary to previous tough talk and new tariffs put China at odds with American manufacturing. Meanwhile, Donald Trump is looking a lot more sedate in court as he naps his way through his New York trial for fraud. Also this week discussing the latest primaries, Russia's military purge, China, Rudy Giuliani on the run, and Boeing.
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"Everyone loses. Even if the Israelis lose, the Palestinians have lost so much, maybe the seed isn't there anymore. And in Israel, the great abundance of goodwill Israel has built up around the world with the holocaust centres and so forth is being dismantled."
As long threatened, Israel has invaded the last refuge of Palestinian citizens along the Gaza Strip, the city of Rafah, leading to more escalating casualties. Meanwhile, the judge in Donald Trump's hush money trial has rejected calls for a mistrial after Stormy Daniels shared sordid details of her encounter with Trump on the witness stand, but other judges have been far more accommodating to the former president. Also discussing House Speaker Mike Johnson, Australia and China relations, and local election results in the UK.
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"They're not talking about preserving the democracy, they're talking about destroying the democracy so we've got to be very, very clear about what the game is."
Kevin McCarthy has bent to the will of the far-right of his party and moved forward with an impeachment inquiry for Joe Biden in spite of a total lack of evidence, further dismantling the tools of American governance. Meanwhile, attempts made to put the brakes on China's massive economic ascent at this week's G20 Summit. We're also looking at the retirement of Mitt Romney, latest on Trump, Ukraine, Russia and North Korea, and the Opioid Crisis.
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"This was a good storm, it hit at just the right time."
More struggles for Republicans this week, as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton looks down the barrel of impeachment proceedings in the Lone Star State, and Mitch McConnell faces pointed questions about his health. Meanwhile, Biden splashes the cash on student loan forgiveness and Ukraine. Also looking at Hurricane Idalia recovery, Burning Man, and the latest on Trump and January 6th convictions.
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"Trump and his team keep falling over their own faces."
Take him away, boys, former President Donald Trump tagged and bagged at Fulton County Jail this week caused a worldwide stir. Meanwhile, a category three storm bearing down on the state of Florida highlights the ongoing insurance crisis in the sunshine state. Also discussing Rudy Giuliani's court loss in Georgia, the Jacksonville shooting, DC gun laws, prescription drug prices, and a new city founded by Silicon Valley billionaires.
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"They are really making asses of themselves, doing contortions over [Trump]."
A meeting of the minds, eight Republican presidential hopefuls are coming together for the first of the GOP candidate debates. Bur will there be much to discuss with the omission of frontrunner Donald Trump? And a rare hurricane has struck the US and Mexican West Coast, originally forecast for late 2016 Hurricane Hillary has finally made an appearance. Also discussing the latest on Trump and alleged conspirators' criminal cases, Yevgeniy Prigozhin's untimely but not unexpected end, Greg Abbott, and Ron DeSantis wants mercy from the Mouse.
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"He's going down and he's going to bring everyone else down. He's not playing this to win or lose, but to destroy."
One, two, three, four! Four indictments for former president Donald Trump as this week allegations for election tampering in Georgia are added to the pile. Why does it now all seem to be happening so fast? And how will roping in co-conspirators on RICO charges affect the case? Also discussing the devastating wildfires in Hawaii, Russia's crashing ruble, UAW and auto manufacturer negotiations, and carbon capture technologies.
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"He's either going to kill the American democracy, which he will do if he's reelected, or he's going to go down fighting."
Legal cases proceed against former president Donald Trump this week, and he can't help throwing threats around in spite of specific warnings. Meanwhile, China has hacked the defence servers of one of the US's closest allies and seen further sanctions taken out against it due to fears of its burgeoning military. Also looking at abortion rights, regulations for ghost guns, Ukraine, and the FIFA Women's World Cup.
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"There's no turning back now."
It's been a long time coming, but Donald Trump has officially been indicted over charges relating to his alleged attempted overthrow of the US government and subversion of the electoral system. With so many charges being faced in various cases, one wonders how he'll have time to run a presidential campaign. But maybe it's all just a distraction from the real story, not Hunter's laptop, the coverup of extraterrestrial life on Earth. Also talking this week about escalating climate anomalies and Project 2025's efforts to halt all climate action, another coup in Niger, and Elon Musk's interference in Ukraine.
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"We have this massive corporation situation where they're not really competing with one another, so they can mutually set higher prices."
The Federal Reserve has again raised interest rates in a bid to fight off inflation, this time to their highest in 22 years, but doing so is a balancing act as they struggle to avoid an economic recession. Meanwhile, Republicans are doing their best to keep Joe Biden from filling military and defence positions over the abortion rights fight. Also discussing the latest on Trump, migration policy struck down in court, US heat waves, and university legacy admissions under scrutiny.
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"He could be going for the presidency from jail."
Hot on the heels of the charges brought against Trump over classified documents, he has officially been made a target of prosecutor Jack Smith's January 6th investigation but with charges yet to be named. But it's not just Trump that's feeling the heat, with record-breaking high temperatures across the American Southwest set to continue. Also talking this week about fraudulent Michigan electors, Israel, migration, and Ron DeSanis' disastrous presidential campaign.
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"It is a war crime."
Mixed news for Ukraine this week, with the offer of an eventual admission, maybe, into NATO, and the United States agreeing to deliver cluster bombs to the war effort despite humanitarian criticisms. But first, Donald Trump is pushing for the Mar-a-Lago documents trial to take place after the 2024 election - all part of the plan, or running scared? Also talking CQ Brown Jr.'s ambitions for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Supreme Court, flooding in Vermont, and fifty years of the War on Drugs.
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"This is a court that has turned totally political, and the next president will have to do something to blow it up."
Bad news for the Biden administration, and for those nursing massive amounts of student debt, as a key promise is struck down in the Supreme Court this week. In fact, the Supreme Court appears to be more and more comfortable with letting its conservative slanting show with more decisions on racial and LGBTIQ discrimination. Also looking this week at Ukraine and Russia, the destruction of Twitter, China, record-breaking heat, and moderates an endangered species in the GOP.
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"Putin knows he's not loved by his own countrymen, he's weak."
An attempted overthrow of the Russian government has ended with Putin retaining his grip on power, but with the continuing chaos resulting from his invasion of Ukraine how much longer can he last? Plus a smoking gun in the Trump classified documents case but what is the impact when prosecutors already had a whole smoking arsenal? Plus we look at the January 6th investigation, Biden impeachment resolution, and an attempt to reshape election laws thwarted in the Supreme Court.
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"This is really good news for everybody but Trump."
Republicans have decried a two-tiered justice system in the United States that somehow favours presidential sons and persecutes poor, misunderstood, former presidents this week after news Hunter Biden has accepted a plea deal that will likely see him walk away with no jail time despite being number one on the GOP's most wanted list for years. Meanwhile, a date has been set for Trump's classified documents case and the House is looking into the Saudi connections of his son-in-law Jared Kushner. Outside of legal matters this week we're talking China, former US service members working for foreign governments, the West Bank, and Boris Johnson.
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"Trump seems to be exhausted by all this, and remember more's coming."
Trump has had his day in court, arraigned on 37 counts in regards to his removal of classified White House documents making him the first former president to face federal criminal charges. Some Republicans are lining up in support while others are clearly hoping this will be the one that sinks him now that he's no longer of use to them, and Democrats are staying largely quiet. We discuss the big news this week, plus NATO, wiretapping powers, and the death of Silvio Berlusconi.
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"It shows that money is more important than principle."
In spite the deal to raise the debt ceiling passing this week, the hard-right of the Republican party don't seem to be happy they didn't upend the apple cart and pin the blame on Biden instead. Meanwhile, fears the world economy could end up underwater anyway, as is the case more literally for parts of southern Ukraine and the server room at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. Also talking about migrant chaos for Florida, aging infrastructure, and LIV Golf's merger with the PGA.
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"The Republicans won't be able to claim a victory from this but the Democrats can."
After weeks of negotiations, a bill to raise the US debt ceiling finally appears ready to pass but for all their holding out was the result worth it for Republicans? Meanwhile, the field of Republican candidates in 2024 takes shape as reports indicate former VP Mike Pence and former governor Chris Christie are set to end the race. Also talking about drone strikes on Moscow, the Turkey election, Dianne Feinstein, and Texas voter suppression.
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"The Democrats have some things to lose but not a lot, because a lot of this is smoke and mirrors."
Republicans feel confident that they have the upper hand over debt ceiling negotiations. Will Biden call their bluff, or dismantle his own agenda? Meanwhile, a court date for Trump and an underwhelming Twitter livestream from DeSantis shapes the 2024 Republican presidential field. Also looking at more attacks on abortion rights, unrest in Russia over Ukraine, and the Surgeon General calling for greater restrictions for kids on social media.
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"Republicans have nothing to lose. They're already losing anyway so why not screw things up on the way out?"
Australia and Papua New Guinea have been ghosted by Joe Biden as he dashes back home to take part in further debt ceiling negotiations, but will it make any difference to what will ultimately have to be done? And the long-awaited Durham probe into the Trump-Russia investigation has been released to reveal... a whole lot of not much. Again. Also talking, Rudy Giuliani, white supremacy's terror threat, Title 42, and the latest from Florida.
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"There's more to come, and some people want to jump off this ship before it's too late."
Are the dominoes finally dropping for Trump? This week, the former president found liable for sexual assault and defamation in the civil suit brought by writer E. Jean Carroll amidst a storm of other legal matters still awaiting verdicts. Republican rep George Santos finds himself in legal hot water as well, arrested in relation to 13 cases of wire fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes. We're also looking at the debt ceiling, how Americans are coming to accept mass shootings, immigration, and Chinese citizens banned from buying land in Florida.
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"The debt is mostly Republican giveaways, so I think we need to find some way of taking that back."
Confidence looks shaky in the US economy this week, as debate over raising the debt ceiling continues and the US experiences its second largest ever bank collapse only two months after the first. Meanwhile, suggestions that the Supreme Court might need a code of conduct if they cannot deal with their ethical issues internally. We're also talking about the legal outlook for Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, and Hunter Biden, plus the White House Correspondents Dinner and coronation of King Charles.
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"Nobody wants either Biden or Trump to run."
Republicans and Democrats have clashed again this week over raising the debt ceiling before the government defaults, with the GOP wanting again to take a machete to spending and Biden promises. Meanwhile, the E. Jean Carroll case brought against former president Donald Trump is off to an incendiary start with Trump taken to task over his commentary outside of court. Also talking Tucker Carlson out at FOX, Disney sues Florida, Afghanistan, Joe Biden in 2024, and the passing of Harry Belafonte.
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"We're living in a false culture where what you have is more than what you are."
Multiple accounts this week of innocent young people being shot in alleged cases of paranoia and mistaken identity lead us to ask the question, is the United States losing its collective mind? But first, addressing the ongoing concerns surrounding Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and the leaking of top secret military documents. Also discussing FOX News' settlement with Dominion, fears for a recession, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Florida.
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"He sold himself out, he sold out the court, he sold out black people, and he sold out America."
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been roundly criticised this week for taking millions of dollars worth of gifts in the form of luxury vacations from a top Republican donor, with Democrats calling for him to step down from the country's highest court. Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers at a state and federal level continue to take aim at abortion rights and, of all things, child labour laws. Also discussing Donald Trump's legal woes, the Louisville shooting, the Colorado River, and Joe Biden's confirmation that he will be running again in 2024.
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"A democracy has to prove itself at least every twenty years or it will sink into a dictatorship. This is a proving period."
Donald Trump has been indicted on 34 counts connecting to hush money payments made during the course of his 2016 presidential campaign, making him the first ever former president to face criminal charges. We discuss the fallout including Trump's threats toward the judge and prosecutor of the case, Republican response, the reaction from voters, and the other criminal investigations Trump is currently facing. Plus the latest on Ukraine, Saudis cut off the oil tap, the push for a brutalising budget, and Biden turning down the invitation to King Charles' crowning.
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"We think we can brutalise people into obeying your dictum, rather than helping them understand how they can be whole people without being chastised and persecuted."
Another week, another school shooting, and this time politicians don't appear to even be pretending they might get something done about it. But there is one thing that's at least caught the right-wing's attention and that is the identity of the perpetrator, twenty-eight-year-old transgender man Aiden Hale. Meanwhile, mass protests have rocked Israel as prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu tries to shake up the country's judicial system in his personal favour. Also looking at the Obama legacy, SVB fallout, Mike Pence's Jan 6th testimony, and the deaths of 38 people in a US-Mexico border migrant detention facility.
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"How much of the house has to fall down before it's not livable?"
A lot of sound and fury, signifying nothing, over the potential of a Trump arrest this week, and it appears even Trump loyalists are getting sick of the former president's grifting and self-interest. Meanwhile, President Xi Jinping has met with Vladimir Putin in Russia to reassure him their two countries are "driving changes not seen for 100 years". We're also talking about continuing fallout from the SVB collapse, origins of COVID-19, and major school strikes in Los Angeles.
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"I just don't believe this was just poor bank planning or a mischievous board of directors."
The American banking system under threat this week as Silicon Valley Bank imploded in the largest banking collapse since the 2008 Financial Crisis, has Biden righted the ship? And tensions rise between Russia and the US after Russia aircraft down an American surveillance drone in international airspace over the Black Sea. We're also talking about the AUKUS submarine deal, background checks for gun buyers, California flooding, and Trump as the 2024 Republican frontrunner.
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"[Republicans] are making small targets when there are big issues."
Takeaways from CPAC as the 2024 Republican field begins to state their cases in front of commentators and voters. And it appears Joe Biden will be in the running again against whoever the Republicans deliver, so what kind of week is he having in regards to student loans and illegal immigration? Also looking at the Nord Stream pipeline bombing, a lawsuit targeting Texas over its anti-abortion laws, and the International High Seas Treaty.
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"Is FOX willing to pay four billion dollars for telling lies?"
Rupert Murdoch has taken to the witness stand this week in the defamation case brought against FOX News by Dominion Voting Systems and confessed certain elements at FOX pushed the stolen election narrative against all evidence to the contrary. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court weighs up Biden's student loan forgiveness plans for better or worse. Also looking at laws targeting drag performers and sexual minorities, East Palestine's continuing fallout, and the war in Ukraine.
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"This is purely political theatre, but this is theatre I don't want Putin to lose because if he loses he will use nuclear weapons."
President Joe Biden has called on allies to continue their support of Ukraine's efforts to repel their Russia invaders this week, but with the situation at a standoff where can either side go at this point? But first, we look at the fallout of the Ohio train derailment with Norfolk Southern ordered to clean up the toxic effects. We also talk a major case before the Supreme Court that could change the face of the internet, indictments in Georgia, and latest on George Santos
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"They want to make a show but they don't want to face the music."
Apocalyptic scenes in East Palestine, Ohio, as a derailed train spills toxic chemicals, leaving residents worried about long-term health impacts and looking for someone to blame. Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders looks to drag big pharmaceutical companies in front of Congress to grill them on affordability. Also looking this week at more Chinese spy balloons, the Michigan State shooting, cutting the defense budget, and new ethics rules for Supreme Court Justices and their families.
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"This is really one where, who blinks first?"
Biden's State of the Union address this week praised his administration's accomplishment on jobs while calling for more to be done on manufacturing, tax reform, and repairing the political divide, although the response was anything but unifying. Meanwhile, an alleged spy balloon shot down off the coast of South Carolina brings fresh tensions in the relationship between the US and China. We're also talking about medical crises facing everyday Americans, massive investment plans for Central America, and the Turkey-Syria earthquake.
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"They're not using good, logical ideas, they're just throwing ideas up there."
President Biden has entered negotiations with Republicans over the national debt ceiling, but with neither side willing to compromise what will happen next? And as the Colorado River dries up, most of the states that rely on it have come together to make cuts to water usage, so why isn't California coming to the table? Also talking the GOP's proposed 30% sales tax, George Santos, the latest on Trump's court cases, and the killing of Tyre Nichols.
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"We are doing our best to annihilate ourselves."
As Ukraine braces for the potential of a renewed Russian offensive, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists have moved the hands of the so-called 'Doomsday Clock' to their highest ever level due to fears of nuclear or biological attack. Meanwhile, we see more and more convictions over the January 6th attack on the capitol in 2021 but do they serve much purpose when its ringleader is still at large? Also discussing the Monterey Park shooting, Mike Pence found with classified docs, House committee appointments, Ron DeSantis, and more!
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"I called Barnum & Bailey, that circus is out of town so I guess this is the replacement?"
We're back! This week, a massive episode looking at Kevin McCarthy's harrowing journey to become House Speaker and what to expect from Republicans now they control the House, including cuts to Social Security and Medicare and a slew of fresh investigations. Meanwhile, Biden caught with his hand in the cookie jar after it was revealed he kept classified docs from his time as Vice President in his Delaware home. Also talking about negotiations over the debt ceiling, student debt, Ukraine, and Brazil's own attempted Jan 6th.
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"We need more fresh air everywhere."
For their last chat of the year, Ed and Sean look at the defection of Kyrsten Sinema from the Democrats, the arrest of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, Republicans divided on where to go with the investigations into Trump, and putting a man back on the moon! Plus, the biggest news stories of 2022 and what to expect in the new year!
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"What the American people want is anger to be gone, they want to live in a time when there is hope and people are doing things that are good for the nation, and healing it."
Senator Raphael Warnock has come away victorious from Georgia's runoff midterm election. But given who his opponent was, and given a week of insanity over Hunter Biden where former president Donald Trump casually suggested "terminating" the US Constitution, is there much significance in the win or is there still something deeply wrong with American democracy? Also looking at the Trump Organization's fraud convictions, Ukraine, rail issues exposed by the aborted strike, and the Winter Olympics.
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"Everybody loses if you stop the railroads running right before Christmas."
Joe Biden this week has pushed Congress to pass a bill that would force the US rail union to accept White House terms and avoid a nation-crippling strike, but its passage still looks fraught in the Senate. But first, we look at the midterm races that still finished running, with a runoff election in Georgia and claims of election fraud by officials in Arizona. We're also talking about corruption cases getting harder to prosecute, Russia in withdrawal, protests in China, and censure for former Australian PM Scott Morrison.
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"If you preach hate, this is what you get."
A shooting in a Colorado nightclub and the callous response from some commentators underlines years of attacks on the LGBTQ community from those on the right. In brighter news, Donald Trump has lost his legal battle in the country's highest court to keep his tax returns a secret, and we look at what that means for both him and other elected officials. Also discussing the latest from the January 6th committee, follow up from midterms, Ukraine, Qatar, and Brexit regret.
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"This is going to be a wading pool full of sharks, crocodiles, lions, sea lions, they're going to be very poisonous waters."
Midterm results continue to trickle in, trickle being the operative word, as Donald Trump announces another run at the presidency for 2024 just as he finally hits the outs with the Republican party. Meanwhile, Silicon Valley has been churning through employees as mass layoffs at Twitter, Meta, and Amazon wreak havoc on the industry. Also discussing the latest on Ukraine, US-China relations, student debt relief, and Biden's invitation to address the Australian parliament.
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"The Democrats ran local, the Republicans ran MAGA."
While votes are still being counted, it appears the Red Wave that Republicans craved and Democrats feared has failed to eventuate, so what do we know about the midterm results so far? Meanwhile, the situation in Ukraine continues to turn on Vladimir Putin with Russian forces ousted from the regional centre of Kherson. Also talking 2024, COP27, and escalations over protests in Iran.
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"This is not a case where real truth or real ideas or real anything wins."
A disturbing attack on Nancy Pelosi's husband in an attempt to take the Speaker of the House hostage underlines the threat to democracy America faces in its upcoming midterms, particularly in the face of the callous Republican response. Biden has made his final pitch, warning of a "path to chaos" under the GOP and increasingly measures to combat cost of living. We address the latest, plus Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, Trump tax fraud, and elections in Brazil and Israel.
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"The number one issue is the protection of democracy among all voters."
Closing in on midterms and nothing seems certain about results, but as more stories emerge about poll watchers and voter intimidation emerge we ask whether this November's results will truly satisfy either side of politics that it was a fairly run race. Meanwhile, the UK has a new Prime Minister after Liz Truss served the shortest ever term in the office. Also talking Ukraine, Kanye West, and what Xi Jinping's third term in office means for the Pacific region.
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"This is tighter than Dick's hatband, as they say."
Ed and Sean take a look at the latest news on midterms, as Joe Biden promises to codify the right to abortion at a federal level, and Republicans promise to burn democracy to the ground if they can rule over the ashes. Meanwhile, new variants of COVID raise their ugly heads and promise a surge of cases over winter in the Northern hemisphere. Also talking this week about Ukraine, workers rights on trial at the Supreme Court, Alex Jones, and Liz Truss.
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"This will not scare the Ukrainians, it's going to make them even more resolved."
A way out of Ukraine for Russia under Putin narrows, as Russia amps up attacks on civilians following the bombing of a bridge connecting it to occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, stateside, Joe Biden has issued a blanket pardon for Americans convicted of possessing small amounts of marijuana, what's it mean for legalisation? We're also talking this week about America's relationship with Saudi Arabia, New York's migrant state of emergency, threats of a global recession, and midterms.
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"OPEC gains more by keeping the prices as they are, there's no future in this for them."
Oil prices could be set to skyrocket again as OPEC announced it will be slashing production of petroleum by two million barrels a day in an apparent swipe at President Joe Biden. Meanwhile, as the death toll climbs for Hurricane Ian, Republicans simultaneously reject and complain about the lack of federal funding. Also talking Trump's delay tactics, voting rights, Russia, North Korea, and a 2024 presidential field.
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"What matters is taking this debt off the back of the young people."
A rare moment of bipartisanship as Senate Republicans and Dems come together on a bill intended to keep future presidents subverting election results through Congress. Meanwhile, a vote you can absolutely trust as Russia soldiers go door to door in occupied parts of Ukraine to ask them if they'd like to get the Soviet Union back together. Also talking this week about the cost of student debt relief, Manchin on the outside looking in, Liz Truss, and Italy's hard right turn.
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"The United States is now, after Ukraine, ready to support Taiwan."
Vladimir Putin has amped up warnings that Russia could employ nuclear weapons to salvage its disastrous Ukraine campaign, but just how tenable is Putin's position in his own country? Meanwhile, Joe Biden has also laid his cards on the table over Taiwan, stating plainly that the US will defend the debatably independent nation in the case of Chinese invasion. We're also talking the latest on Donald Trump, Republican immigration stunts, Hurricane Fiona, Brexit, Iran, and more.
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"This is a time for Great Britain to look forward, not to look back."
This week marks the passing of Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96, how has her passing and the success of King Charles III changed the political landscape? Meanwhile in the state, Lyndsey Graham has surprised his own party with a proposal to ban abortion nationwide after 15 weeks in spite of the unpopularity of the GOP's latest moves on abortion rights. We also talk about the integrity of the Supreme Court, the possibility of more classified files still in Trump's hands, striking rail workers, and the Ukrainian counter-offensive against Russia.
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"The Justice Department is really mad, and when they get really mad you better not be in the way."
Latest on the Mar-a-Lago saga, as a Trump-appointed judge's decision to allow the case a "special master" has faced widespread criticism. Meanwhile, the tide could be coming in a little higher as a new report indicates a so-called "doomsday glacier is melting at twice the rate previously predicted. Also looking this week at Steve Bannon's legal woes, e-cigarettes, a Canadian stabbing spree, and the UK's new prime minister.
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"Democrats only have to put one thing on the ballot, are you for democracy? If so, vote D."
In the wake of the Mar-a-Lago affidavit being released, some Republican allies are finally going silent on their support of former president Donald Trump but his rampaging presence and threats remain high. Meanwhile, devastating floods in Pakistan have raised the questions as to whether wealthier nations should be paying contributions to those hit hardest by climate change. Also talking Biden's proposed ban on assault weapons, and the death of former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev.
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"He can't represent himself, this is federal court, not traffic court."
From drought to deluge, historic and lethal flooding has struck parts of the Southwest United States leaving residents scrambling for rescue and in need of planning for the future. Meanwhile, families of the victims in the Uvalde school shooting have launched a $27 billion lawsuit aimed at gun manufacturers, the school district, and police. Also talking about the latest on the Mar-a-Lago raid, student debt relief, fears for the Zaporizhzhya nuclear plant, and retirement for Dr Anthony Fauci.
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"When it happens, justice will be ready."
Fallout continues over the FBI's execution of a search warrant on former president Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago property, with the reveal they were in part searching for material on America's nuclear program. Meanwhile, CVS, Walgreens and Walmart have been ordered to pay big money in one Ohio case for their role in facilitating America's opioid crisis. Also talking the Inflation Reduction Act, drought, primary results, and former Aussie PM Scott Morrison's secret collection of ministries.
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"He knows he's a cooked goose, the question is what the basting is going to be."
After Donald Trump made much of Hillary Clinton's alleged mishandling of government documents, his Mar-a-Lago property has been raided by the FBI this week over... his alleged mishandling of government documents. But Republican politicians have been quick to his defence and rhetoric around the search has been quickly escalating online. The raid has also partially overshadowed a major win for the Biden Administration, in the form of the Inflation Reduction Act taking aim at climate action, healthcare and tax reform. We're also discussing North Korea's troop offer to Russia, Brittney Griner, China and Taiwan, and the latest on primaries.
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"FOX news gave [Biden] big applause for that, much to the chagrin of CNN who doesn't like much bloodletting unless it's a Donald Trump's."
Over twenty years since 9/11, one of the masterminds behind the attack Ayman al-Zawahiri has been killed by US forces in Kabul. But given that Afghanistan is now under Taliban control, what are the implications for their leadership and ongoing relations? Plus, working from home seems to be going well for Joe Biden with some apparent success on negotiations and votes. Also looking at abortion rights, Taiwan and China, and child labour.
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"If anyone thinks we're not in a climate emergency, they must be living on Mars."
Glorious leader Joe Biden has been struck with the dreaded COVID-19, but with everyone over the pandemic there's been very little reaction to the news and besides, there's a new plague in town. Meanwhile, death and destruction continues in Ukraine and in the midst of a devastating heatwave, St. Louis has instead seen historic floods. Also talking about Russia withdrawing from ISS, good news for Biden in Congress and on midterms, recession, the UK Prime Minister, and of course the latest damning takeaways from January 6th.
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"This is what I call good trouble."A massive heatwave strikes the northern hemisphere, as Europe and the US swelter and the UK experiences its hottest day on record. In the fist bump felt around the world, President Joe Biden had an ill-advised 'bro' moment with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman but did much else come of his Middle Eastern travels? Also talking about the latest from the January 6th Committee, protecting same sex marriage, Joe Manchin, and Australia's progress on climate change.
"The law is reasserting itself, particularly around Trump. I think inside the party they're doing everything they can to kill him, and cripple him."Before getting into domestic news this week, we look at some major international stories, with the murder of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the resignation of Boris Johnson, and upheaval in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, on the US homefront, little to be surprised about coming from the January 6th Hearings. Also talking defiance over Roe v. Wade, the Iran nuclear deal, and Joe Biden's 2024 prospects.
"What can be done? That's what I ask everyone, what can be done?"A wave of mass shootings across the country on the July 4th holiday weekend leaves Americans... What? Indifferent? Unmoved? Meanwhile, the Georgia Grand Jury subpoenas Trump allies, and a lot of upset but little action following the reversal of Roe v. Wade. We also discuss, NATO, North Korea and the Asia-Pacific Region, and the latest troubles for British PM Boris Johnson.
"Democracies require heroes."The destruction of Roe v. Wade and Americans' constitutional right to abortion has led to widespread condemnation and protests around the globe, as well as questions about the continuing legitimacy of the Supreme Court. We look at all the ins and outs, but first the most damning testimony to come out of the January 6th hearings yet regarding Trump's role in the attempted coup, Plus, QAnon returns, gun control, NATO, and sentencings for Ghislaine Maxwell and R.Kelly in a massive news week this week.
"Trump is absolutely mercurial... the sooner he's off the stage, the sooner the democracy can be repaired."Fresh evidence this week in the January 6th televised hearings, with the reveal that Donald Trump and his family invited a documentary crew along on their efforts to overturn the 2020 election, of which most of their team were unaware. Meanwhile, Trump-Republicans and more moderate voices within the party are turning on each other, threatening violence and an irreparable tear in the Grand Old Party. Also talking Uvalde police, Ukrainian refugees, religious separation, primaries, and Biden's challengers in 2024.
"The issues of truth or not truth have nothing to do with this, what they want to do is have an internal revolution in the United States."Televised hearings into the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol have largely confirmed for us what we already knew, but new heroes, and more so villains, are emerging from the saga. Meanwhile, some small actions have been taken in the Senate on gun control following the Uvalde Massacre, but little appears poised to change. Also talking Ukraine, inflation, Saudi Arabia, and latest from the Supreme Court.
"Things are getting bad in Russia, but they never were that good."Russia is struggling under sanctions, and other nations are threatened with hunger as grain exports are unable to ship, but there is no end in sight for the conflict in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has passed measures on gun control following the Uvalde Elementary School Shooting but the Senate is unlikely to cooperate. Also talking a lack of climate action in New York, recall for San Francisco's DA, survival for Boris Johnson, and the January 6th televised hearings about to kick off.
"The problem is deeper than this one incident, as we know."Fallout continues over the Uvalde Elementary School Shooting that left nineteen children and two teachers dead with details emerging about the actions of police while the shooter was active, and those same police now refusing to cooperate with investigators. Meanwhile, oil prices have surged amid Russian sanctions and inflation is gouging people's hip pockets. Also discussing student debt forgiveness, California water restrictions, China's attempt at a new deal with Pacific Island nations, and Aussie PM Anthony Albanese's first week in office.
"It's too late, too long... until the gun manufacturers are held accountable nothing's going to happen."Tragedy in Texas as a lone gunman kills 21 people, 19 of them children, in an elementary school two days before Summer vacation. While the attack is reminiscent of Sandy Hook almost a decade ago, the shooting itself and the reaction is almost routine at this point as advocate for gun control despair over the lack of concrete action. In Australia, we discuss the results of the federal election which has seen Anthony Albanese installed as PM with a mandate for climate action. Also talking about Monkeypox, Ukraine, religion in politics, and Trump's outright calls for civil war.
"It's an equal opportunity to hate."A shooting in Buffalo, New York, allegedly inspired by white supremacist ideology has left ten dead and three wounded in the latest in a series of escalating terror attacks. Joe Biden has condemned the poison of white supremacy but it's a poison many Americans continue to willingly imbibe. And we look at how midterms are taking shape with the latest Senate primary results. Plus, talking Ukraine, Roe v. Wade, the need for baby formula, and Australia heading to the polls this Saturday.
"On these culture war issues they're voting the way they're voting because they think there's something in it for them, which is a shame. It should be on the law."After last week's Supreme Court leak signalled a massive threat to abortion rights in America, both sides have now mobilised. But while Democrats attempt to keep the outrage hot, Republicans are avoiding the discussion altogether. In Ukraine, the US continues to take an active interest in helping defend against Russia but is their involvement in danger of mission creep? Also talking record high gas prices, Lauren Boebert, Madison Cawthorn, and the Australian election campaign.
"You can have Planned Parenthood in Botswana but you can't have it in Georgia. Wild."Unpacking the leaked document from the US Supreme Court on Roe v. Wade, we look at the obligations at federal and state levels, what can be done next, the implications of the leak happening at all, and what it will mean for midterms. Plus we discuss the latest on Ukraine, Trump's continuing influence over Republican candidates, Boris Johnson's continuing survival, and the dearth of ideas or policy in the Australian election campaign.
"The Soviets said very few people were killed in the Afghan campaign but when they looked for their sons they weren't there, and it's beginning to happen again."Russian casualties in the Ukraine invasion have now exceeded the nearly 15,000 lost over all nine years of the Soviet-Afghan War according to independent estimations, which was a factor in the downfall of the Soviet Union. Meanwhile, Biden may finally, sort-of, perhaps be looking at canceling some student debt, maybe, or is he holding out to make the biggest splash for cash before midterm elections? Also talking California's drought, Florida's election police, the French election, Boris Johnson, and our own election campaign here in Australia.
"At some point, Russia will not have the money to replace men or materials. And I don't think that day is far off."Bad news for Ukraine as fighting intensifies around the Donbas region, and Vladimir Putin once again threatens to take conflict nuclear following the support of western nations. Meanwhile, a security pact between China and the Solomon Islands has security experts nervous about the implications for Taiwan, the United States, and Australia. Plus talking about environmental protections, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Biden in 2024, and the Australian election race.
"We may have crossed a line in America, where it's going to take another civil war to get things back in order."A shooting on a subway platform has left zero dead but the city of New York shaken, while investigations continue into finding multiple gunmen involved in a mass shooting in Sacramento that saw six people killed. In better news, we look ahead to the new perspective Ketanji Brown Jackson will bring to the US Supreme Court. Also, the latest on Ukraine, culture war in Texas, damning texts from Trump Jr and Australia kicks off its election campaign.
"People will vote for anything to keep their base together, that is the new modus operandi."Following the lead of neighbouring Texas, Oklahoma has essentially outlawed abortion within the state as part of conservatives ongoing war on abortion rights. Meanwhile, associate justice Clarence Thomas has expressed fears the Supreme Court could be compromised by political interference. Also talking about the latest on Ukraine and Russia, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Amazon workers unionising, and Republicans willing to go to war over Donald Trump.
"A black woman looks a lot better than a black male right now on the Supreme Court."Peace talks allegedly continue between Ukraine and Russia but with claims Putin has been receiving false reports on the conflict from his own military to hide the extent of their failure, do said talks even involve their supposed leader? And as Ketanji Brown Jackson makes history as the first black woman nominated to the Supreme Court, another judge, Clarence Thomas, could be on his way out with calls for him to resign after failing to recuse himself on matters concerning January 6th. Also talking about inflation, Hillsong, China and Solomon Islands, and that infamous Oscars slap.
"For Putin, this begins to smell like defeat."The United States has formerly labelled Russians as war criminals for actions undertaken in Ukraine, but while the accusation seems more than justified is America the one qualified to make it? Ketanji Brown Jackson has faced marathon grilling sessions over her nomination to the US Supreme Court but even as political theatre the questions seem wildly off course. Also talking about a record Antarctica heatwave, voter intimidation, Boris Johnson, and the passing of Madeleine Albright.
"[Putin's] assets are being stripped, his power is being curtailed, and his ability to make an agenda that people are buying is diminished."Both Ukraine and Russia have cited progress in peace talks between the two nations this week, as Russia continues to grind its way through the neighbouring sovereign state. But with the unexpected cost and difficulty of the campaign, as well as unrest at home and long term instabilities, will Putin be able to hold onto his position going forward? And what might he do to keep it? Also looking at talks with China, fuel costs, inflation, Sarah Bloom Raskin's failed nomination, and Chris Cuomo.
"The Ukrainians are doing more than putting up a fierce resistance, they're doing damage."We've been away for a couple of weeks and all the news of course is about Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. We play catch up on what's happening, and look at just how far the conflict could escalate. Plus Joe Biden's first State of the Union attempts to recapture some of the momentum he had when beginning the presidency but does he have anything of substance to offer? Also talking China and Taiwan, Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, attacks on trans kids in Texas, and the January 6th Commission nearing a close.
"I just don't see where Biden can go, because the second half of his promise is dead."The situation on the Ukraine border remains confusing, just how Putin wants it, with an anticipated invasion not coming to fruition and mixed reports about Russian withdrawal. Meanwhile, at home, the families of some of the victims of the Sandy Hook shooting have reached a landmark settlement with arms manufacturer Remington. Also talking about the latest on the Supreme Court, January 6th, Biden inaction on student debt, and Prince Andrew.
"You have to curate a narrative that works for your side, truth doesn't count."Little over a year on from the horrific scenes of January 6th in America's capital and already the history books are being rewritten, with politicians seen fleeing for their lives on the day now labelling the invading horde's concerns and actions as perfectly valid. Meanwhile, a state of emergency in Canada as another invading horde cuts off the city of Ottawa over vaccine mandates. Also, the latest on Russia and Ukraine, COVID deaths, the crisis in American education, and Winter Olympics.
"Almost every footy coach I worked with said, the way you practice determines whether you win the game."An opportunity this week for Joe Biden to improve his political fortunes with the retirement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. But with Biden pledging to replace Breyer with a black and female judge the president is being accused of playing identity politics, and some Republicans are aiming to oppose his selection no matter who he picks. Meanwhile, winter storms rocking the East Coast have exposed the fault lines in America's crumbling infrastructure. Also talking about Russia and Ukraine, Honduras' new president, Tom Brady, and Donald Trump's treasonous latest admission.
"This is [Putin's] swan song, he said he was going to get back the USSR. In some ways he's done that."As Russia masses troops on the Ukraine border, the US government has placed 8,500 troops on high alert for possible deployment in Eastern Europe to support a NATO response and "other contingencies". Are we looking down the barrel of World War Three? Meanwhile, a war of words between President Biden and a FOX News reporter on inflation, but what is actually being done to help everyday Americans? Plus, we talk student debt, Louis DeJoy, William Barr before the January 6th committee, and our own Glorious Leader Scott Morrison for Australia Day.
“I don’t know how Biden comes back from this, he’s supposed to be the supreme negotiator.”Ed and Sean are back for 2022, and catching up on the goings on in the US over Christmas and the start of January. And although we had high hopes for Biden's signature Build Back Better Bill toward the end of 2021, both the bill and Democrats seem to be in shambles with plans to now try passing the bill in selective chunks. Plus we look at COVID cases, Fentanyl deaths, Russia, Boris Johnson, Ghislaine Maxwell and the latest on the January 6th investigation.
With a global pandemic, America's withdrawal from Afghanistan after two decades of war, and an attempted overthrow of the US government by an outgoing president, 2021 was most certainly a year for the history books. Ed and Sean take a look at the highlights and lowlights of the year, including the January 6th Coup, responses to COVID-19, Afghanistan, infrastructure, promises made on climate action, trials which underscored America's political and racial divides, as well as the road ahead for Joe Biden and America.
"This should be the rallying cry for Democrats, don't stack the court, stack the legislatures."Abortion rights in the United States are facing what's being called their most significant threat in decades, with the case of a Mississippi fifteen week ban to be heard in mid-2022. What's the political impact likely to look like and what measures will the government likely undertake if Roe v. Wade is overturned? Also the Winter Olympics are already heating up over a US diplomatic boycott being picked up also by allies the UK, Canada and Australia. Also, raising the debt ceiling, vaccine mandates, Russia, Mark Meadows, and exoneration for the accused killers of Malcolm X.
"No one knows how severe it could get but it doesn't sound like it's deadly if you are vaccinated."Omicron, an ominous sounding new variant of COVID is starting to spring up around the globe but what do we really know about its potential? And how will it reflect back on Joe Biden's handling of the pandemic? Plus former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has agreed to produce documents and testify for the House investigation into January 6th, could others follow suit? Also talking Ghislaine Maxwell, the Oxford High School shooting, Steve Bannon, and midterms.
"This is a plague bigger than COVID, more vicious and more random."The acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse has brought in fresh fears of further political violence, but could another couple of high profile cases reassure Americans of the role of the justice system? And contrary to claims made by some big businesses, Americans do want to work but they won't do it for peanuts, with unemployment claims falling to their lowest levels since 1969. Also talking private prisons, China and Taiwan, and bridging the political divide over Thanksgiving dinner.
"You cannot let this beast continue to be fed."COP26 and an international virtual summit between the US and China have come away with a lot of sweet sounding promises, but will the world see real action? And can the United States really work with China with its current abuses of human rights? Although the United States has plenty of problems at home as well, with Steve Bannon, Kyle Rittenhouse, and persisting belief in election fraud fuelling discontent and a thirst for more political violence.
"What the Dems are doing is putting the kitchen sink in there."Just as things were looking dark for Biden, the president has come through with a couple of big wins that have grabbed headlines this week. Firstly, a win on infrastructure with the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, although not everyone is happy, and a diplomatic coup with China at COP26. Also talking about Russia massing troops on the Ukrainian border, continuing AUKUS fallout, putting a man, or woman, on the moon, and Donald Trump's January 6th papers.
"Democrats need to start running on something, not against Trump but for X, Y and Z."A devastating loss in the gubernatorial race for Democrats in Virginia reflects poorly on the delayed and discounted Biden agenda, and could provide a sobering look ahead to the 2022 midterms. Meanwhile, some big promises coming out of COP26 but also some awkward moments, particularly for Aussie PM Scott Morrison, over the AUKUS deal. Plus the latest on Joe Manchin, vaccines and vaccine mandates, Brexit, and Trump's day in court.
"Now we're in the situation where half a loaf is better than no loaf."Joe Biden getting out of town for COP26, as negotiations for his much reduced infrastructure finally seem to be reaching a penultimate stage but are sure to leave some who voted Biden unhappy. And while yet another climate summit may not be what the world needs, Los Angeles is setting strides with an attempt to be the US' first carbon free city by 2035. Also talking immigration arrests, Iran, a judicial inquiry into the death of Eric Garner, and latest on January 6th.
"The momentum for these bills is gone now, the desire is still there but the momentum is gone."Joe Biden's signature infrastructure bill continues to struggle and has been pared down considerably thanks to the influence of centrist Democrats Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, and the Democrats own razor thin majority in the Senate. And the passing of former Secretary of State Colin Powell has left a notable hole in American politics, but what sort of legacy does the man leave behind? Also talking voting rights, gerrymandering, Steve Bannon, and Biden's pick to head the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency.
"The debate is really over, the question is how do we implement?"85% of people around the world have already suffered adverse weather conditions brought on by climate change, according to a report this week. It comes as Nancy Pelosi signals the Biden infrastructure plans, which in part address climate change adaptations, will need to be cut back in order to pass. And COVID has given American workers more power to be selective about how and when they work, as big companies cry foul. Also talking vaccinations for 5-11 year olds, American troops in Taiwan, and Trump trying to invoke executive privilege over the January 6th Committee.
"This is Biden's agenda, if he fails here he fails."Joe Biden spinning his wheels on infrastructure, and coming to the brink of a massive default on US debt as Republicans continue to obstruct any and all bills put before them. Meanwhile, the leak of the Pandora Papers has once again shone a light on the shady dealings of the world's elite and uber-rich but is anything likely to come of it? Also talking calls for Facebook reform, North Korea, and oil spilled off the coast of California.
"For the very first time in my memory, the so-called progressives have the upper hand."At time of recording, fears of a government shutdown are still looming with a bill to resolve the government's funding and debt ceiling yet to be resolved. But Joe Biden's toughest negotiations right now aren't with Republicans but instead with his own party over his signature infrastructure bill. Meanwhile, vaccine deadlines close in on American workers in some states leaving some with no jab, no job. Also talking the Quad, India's economic outlook, the UK fuel shortage, and the circus of the Arizona recount.
"This is a counter against the Chinese moves... more diplomatic than military."Joe Biden, Boris Johnson and... that fella from Down Under have all signed a pact this week to defend the future security of the Indo-Pacific, against actors that many seem afraid to name (It's China, guys), so what are the benefits for those involved? Also, fears of a government shutdown and a first ever default on US debt loom, which could cause shockwaves through the entire world economy. Also talking child COVID deaths, Haiti, Roe v. Wade, and Trump's campaign against Mitch McConnell.
"People's hope is based on this nostalgia of the past that is not coming back, and they have to place their hope and their confidence in something new."Twenty years since 9/11 and while reminiscences went ahead New York was reeling from another major tragedy, Hurricane Ida, which coincidentally made landfall over Louisiana the same day as Hurricane Katrina did in 2005. In this US of Ed Special, Ed and Sean discuss the impacts of these disasters, old and new, natural and manmade, how they have reshaped both the cities of New Orleans and New York, and how their changing communities may serve as a guide for future cities around the globe.
"The strength of it, the ferocity of it, the horror of it, is something that is all too common now."Hurricane Ida has left a devastating toll as expected but while the levees of New Orleans held it was dramatic scenes and deaths in New York and New Jersey that really stunned the nation. Looking at the continuing fallout plus warnings the US government could blow out its debt ceiling and leave the economy holding the bag. Also talking the Texas abortion battle, Afghanistan, Brazil, and the 20th anniversary of 9/11.
"It is sad to see people trying to move back the clock, rather than move it forward."Discussing the withdrawal from Afghanistan and last week's bombing, plus landfall for Hurricane Ida. And in the latest news, Texas has all but overturned Roe v. Wade in a massive blow for abortion rights in the state, outlawing terminations after six weeks and turning citizens into anti-choice bounty hunters. Plus we're talking January 6th hearings, kids returning to schools unvaccinated, student debt, and the California recall election.
"If you tell the citizens you're going to fix the potholes in front of their house and clean the streets, you'll win the election. Joe Biden is fixing the potholes."The 3.5 trillion dollars worth of budget resolution passed in the House is another win for Biden and avoids Republican debate, but some of the measures are yet to be worked out with Democratic centrists. And Pfizer's vaunted COVID vaccine has finally been granted FDA approval but it doesn't seem likely to swing many holdouts as Republicans come to regret siding with the anti-vaccination movement. Plus Afghanistan, China, the Arizona recount, Paralympics and more.
'I think the Taliban learned a big lesson from last time, if you're governing you have to act like a government."Fatalism hangs over the return of the Taliban to Kabul as a terrified population attempts to flee, but the speed at which Afghanistan has fallen has still shocked observers and the blame game has begun. Meanwhile the Colorado River supplying water to millions faces its first ever federally declared water shortages just days after IPCC dropped a damning report on the effects of climate change. Also talking fears of fresh MAGA violence, COVID, Canada, Haiti, and Hunter Biden.
"Does this mean the gridlock is over? No, it just moves to another stage."Biden's bipartisan infrastructure bill has flown through the Senate with ease to give the president a major win this week, but given it only forms part of the overall agenda what's next for the Democrats? Plus census data shows that all population growth in the US is coming from so-called minority groups, so what does this mean for the future of the two parties? Also talking the IPCC's damning climate remote, Florida's COVID problem, Andrew Cuomo, Afghanistan, and is the Big Lie grift finally on the way out?
"He already had some conversations with members of Congress about this event."Fresh revelations this week about Trump's willingness to subvert the electoral process to keep himself in power in 2020, and while a return by the former president looks less and less likely there are other Republicans it seems may be willing and able to follow the same playbook in future elections. Plus the Biden administration scrambles to put together a new plan for renters and landlords following the lapsing of the CDC's eviction moratorium of the last eleven months. Also talking, infrastructure bill, carbon emissions, federal judge nominees, vaccine supply distraction, Kim Jong-un and Andrew Cuomo.
"Someone needs to be held to account here."Fingers pointing at hearings into just what happened in the US Capitol Building on January 6th, 2021, but in spite of damning and at times visceral testimony is what comes out of this really going to change any hearts and minds? Meanwhile, in spite of high vaccination numbers it's two steps forward one step back on COVID thanks to the highly infectious Delta strain. Also, Olympics, infrastructure, David Chipman's bid for ATF head and what it means for gun control, Israel, the UK and more.
"[Republicans] cannot go into elections in two years and have Democrats take praise for all the infrastructure work, for all the new jobs."Republicans testing resolve on infrastructure this week, before moving on with Biden's big plans. Meanwhile, COVID is already testing the facilities at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, leading to the question as to whether the games can safely continue. Also talking billionaires in space, Taliban on the march, hacking, and COVID cases among the unvaccinated.
"It sounds like this bipartisanship is hanging by a very slim thread, so nobody wants to say anything."Joe Biden and Democrats have gotten together this week on a massive $3.5 trillion budget blueprint to push forward with the Biden agenda on education, healthcare, climate change and more, but will it be enough? Chaotic scenes in Haiti and Cuba paint a tumultuous picture of the region's future, and look to make an impact on US immigration. Also chatting about anti-competitive practices in big business, Texas voting rights, the UK's abandonment of COVID restrictions, and Olympics.
"The way you solve a problem in the United States is to kill it, here you might go fishing."Joe Biden has promised Americans have emerged from their darkest days in a Fourth of July address largely concerned with the COVID-19 pandemic, but for some dark days continue with at least 233 gun-related deaths over the holiday weekend. Meanwhile, Israel's new many-headed hydra of a coalition government appears to have failed its first big test with a split on family unification. Plus Afghanistan, ransomware attacks, Brazil, and the spectre of more indictments in the Trump Organization case.
"This infrastructure bill, as I've said before, is a jobs bill, pure and simple."Joe Biden has announced in glowing terms this week a bipartisan agreement on infrastructure with Republicans, but given the reduced price tag and threats of a veto if he doesn't get his way on a separate reconciliation bill for other measures is the deal all it's cracked up to be? Meanwhile, Critical Race Theory has entered the mainstream as a new front in the culture wars. Also talking the Jan 6th committee, Afghanistan withdrawal, heat wave, charges for the Trump organisation, and Donald Rumsfeld.
"This is unheard of in the march toward democracy. The notion is, the right to vote is extended, not retracted."Republicans have blocked the Democrats' first attempt at a bipartisan voting rights bill, with zero dissent on party lines from within the GOP. Meanwhile, Biden has signally a potential breakthrough on infrastructure talks but compromise with Republicans could see him losing support from the left. Also talking American Rescue Plan, missing the target on COVID vaccinations, Texas power, and the race to be New York’s next mayor.
"America's back, and people are loving it."Rubbing elbows with other world leaders, Joe Biden's trip to the G7 Summit appears a diplomatic success but we look to see if there are any real answers on climate change and China, as well as what's come out of a quiet summit with Vladimir Putin. On the home front, however, fresh revelations about Donald Trump's use of the Justice Department to spy on political enemies reminds us of the long road ahead to stabilising American democracy, if such a thing can be done. Also talking student debt, Lina Khan, Israel, India, and Juneteenth.
"Notions of power run deep in some people, and being powerful is more important than anything including justice."Voting rights faces stiff opposition and talks with Republicans over infrastructure have unsurprisingly fallen apart, forcing Dems to go it alone, but Joe Biden faces dissent from his own party in the shape of Joe Manchin. What's the Manchin angle? Tech innovation finds bipartisan support though as the US looks to take on China. Also discussing Biden's first trip abroad, Kamala Harris and Mexico, taxing the 1%, Israel, and Anthony Fauci.
"This is the chance for the United States to reestablish economically, socially... and of course Biden is hoping political corrections and improvements will follow on from this."Biden's big spending budget looking to vastly expand America's social safety net and fix up crumbling infrastructure, being called “the most substantial expansion of the federal government’s spending powers since World War II". We look at the latest additions, plus where to next on the January 6th Commission. Plus Arctic drilling, voting rights in Texas, China, Israel, and the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Massacre.
"What he's doing is facing reality, there's good debt and bad debt."Biden's first budget is due to be announced at the end of this week, we look at what's anticipated and whether it stacks up to promises made on the campaign trail. And a year on from the killing of George Floyd the policing reforms in his name are yet to become reality, what needs to happen? Also, Biden to meet with Putin in Geneva, COVID conspiracies gaining cred, and Belarus participating in 'state-sponsored hijacking'.
"They are trying to disown it. The more they do that, the more they own it."The bill for a commission looking into the events of the Capitol Invasion on January 6th, 2021 has passed through Congress this morning against strong Republican opposition but with much of the narrative already settled, will anything actually be learned assuming it also gets through the Senate? Plus Roe v. Wade facing a potential new challenge in the Supreme Court, as the conservative majority considers Mississippi's harsh new abortion bill. Also talking infrastructure, Gaza, and the GOP trifecta of Donald Trump, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz.
"We've come to recognise bad jobs don't lead to good jobs."Businesses across the States are short on staff and being forced to stay shut, and Republicans blame unemployment benefits which some states are now cutting. We take a deeper look at the lack of wage growth and decent employment opportunities, and how they've led to this outcome. Plus Israel and Palestine bordering on outright war as the right wing Israeli government distracts from its own issues - can American continue to support their longtime ally? Also looking at gas shortages, the NRA, the Arizona recount and Liz Cheney fallout.
"We've got to get out in front of this using our technology, our people."A new goal on American vaccinations and setting their sights on waiving patents for COVID vaccines, the latest on the rollout from the Biden administration. Meanwhile, the Republican party acting like a spurned lover when it comes to big business and stuck in their ways, looking to oust Liz Cheney for not bending the knee to Donald Trump. Also talking an increase to the refugee cap, Florida, Israel, and China's big moves on electric car production.
"Everything was there that he's promised, not just with another promise but with a course of action."American jobs, climate change, global leadership and gun control all on the agenda for Joe Biden's speech covering his first one hundred days in office and his administration's upcoming agenda. Ed and Sean unpack what was said, and how it relates back to real policies announced over the course of the week. Plus the Armenian Genocide acknowledgement, Russia, COVID cases in India, and Rudy Giuliani's Manhattan raided in the Ukraine investigation.
"[George Floyd] will be remembered for a very long time, not for the life he led but for the life he gave."Celebrations and a massive outpouring of relief this week as former police officer Derek Chauvin found guilty of both murder and manslaughter for the killing of George Floyd. Hopes that this will lead to real change for law enforcement and justice in the United States, but how? Meanwhile, Joe Biden is looking to pledge the United States to cut emissions by 50% by 2030, we look at plans to transition affected workers to new industries. Also talking 200 million COVID jabs, Russia, Israel and Syria exchanging missiles, and fallout from the royal funeral.
"Biden wins more approval by doing it even if Afghanistan goes to hell in a hand basket."After almost two decades and over 2,300 dead US troops, President Joe Biden has given the order to withdraw all US forces from Afghanistan. What are the new threats the US will be dealing with and how will leaving the job half-finished affect US influence abroad? And while CEOs complain about the Biden corporate tax hikes, the love affair between big business and the GOP is also going stale. Also talking gun control, "election integrity", Russia massing troops on the Ukrainian border, and the death of Prince Philip.Check out the new podcast as well for in-depth discussions, Pacific Conversations. First episode with former Labor leader and ambassador Kim Beazley out now.
"Where is the growing population? It's not older, white males."Corporations have come out swinging over new Republican voting restrictions, and Republicans are fighting back but don't want to hurt the money. And with bipartisanship now a distant memory, Biden is pushing ahead on infrastructure plans and likely another couple of big bills through conciliation. We discuss what those might look like, as well as news on Iran, Israel, a possible Guantanamo Bay closure, and Matt Gaetz.
"You couldn't give Stacey Abrams a better platform for her next election."Voting rights are looking to become a key battle for the Biden administration, with Republicans in Georgia drawing widespread criticisms for their new restrictions and Democrats fighting back with the 'For the People' Act. Meanwhile, we have a better idea than ever about the price tag of Biden's upcoming infrastructure bill and where the money will be spent. Also talking about a surge in COVID cases, George Floyd, Suez Canal, and Baltimore to stop policing minor offenses.
"These kinds of killings went way, way down, and then the National Rifle Association got rid of [the Brady Bill] and they've gone back up."Just as it seemed America was reopening and getting back on track, news of two mass shootings, one in Atlanta and one in Colorado, hit our screens, the Colorado shooting coming only days after the blocking of a state assault weapons ban in court by the NRA. But for some, the prospect of tax hikes and arrivals at the southern border were far more frightening. We also talk what we know about the $3 trillion infrastructure bill, Russia, and Israel.
"What [Joe Biden is] doing is the same thing anyone does when they know they have the lead, and that is extending it."COVID vaccinations and relief, confirmations, and another big infrastructure bill on the way while the White House remains quiet and scandal free, it seems like everything is going Joe Biden's way. Trouble is brewing in the Asia region, however, with aggressive talk from North Korea and a humanitarian crisis in need of a response in China. Also discussing Merrick Garland, Michael Regan and Deb Haaland, and Republicans taking aim at voting rights and promising 'scorched earth' on filibusters.
"You get people up on their feet, in their homes, little money in their pocket, they need a job and that's where he's going after next."We're learning more all the time about the $1.9 Trillion COVID relief bill set to be passed by the Biden administration, with family payments, and provisions for native governments and black farmers outlining a new and liberal agenda. Not a single Republican voted for the bill, however, and it seems the GOP might be up to its Obama-era tricks of obstruction while doubling down on voter suppression. Also discussing anti-trans legislation, the latest front in the culture wars, and Donald Trump's attempts to ban the Republican Party from using his image.
"The Republican Party, as the Trump Party, probably has one or two years left to live."Good news on COVID with Americans looking to receive the jab faster than previously though, but the real fight is over the $1.9 Trillion in COVID relief and a trillion-dollar infrastructure bill to come, that will determine if Biden can keep his campaign promises. Meanwhile, a golden calf of sorts made an appearance at this week's CPAC sending clear signals that Republicans intend to fully remain the Party of Trump. Also talking, Syria, Russia, Jamal Khashoggi, and March 4th threats to the capitol once again.
"Ted Cruz is a cruise missile heading to oblivion."Fallout from the unprecedented cold front to hit the southern states has seen skyrocketing power bills for Texas residents and Ted Cruz forced to return from a family trip to Cancun with his tail between his legs. Meanwhile, the United States has surpassed a milestone that no one ever wanted to see, 500,000 deaths due to COVID, so how goes recovery efforts? Also talking about the minimum wage debate, Merrick Garland, Neera Tanden, ICE, and unpacking the crackdown on white nationalism in the US military.
"For the past four years we've paid attention to politics rather than policy."Donald Trump's second impeachment trial ended this week in an unsurprising acquittal and some are looking to take justice in other ways, but at what point can we stop paying attention to this fiasco? Let's talk policy instead, with economists warning millions of jobs are unlikely even once the COVID pandemic is over, with attitudes to travel and working from home vastly changed, and that retraining is needed. Also talking Republican obstructionism, Texas power failures, China and Taiwan, and Rush Limbaugh.
"Donald Trump's new lawyers, it looks like he went so deep in the barrel he got frogs, were not able to mount a decent opening set of arguments."Donald Trump's second impeachment trial underway at time of recording this week, a devastating case brought by Democrats to meagre defence but how much patience do we really have for proceedings? Meanwhile, debate over stimulus cheques, minimum wage and family security payments, should Biden go big or go bipartisan? Also touching on Georgia election interference and Trump's election fund sticky fingers, Iran, Julian Assange, and the Super Bowl.
"Biden, as he said yesterday, I'm not doing any governing yet, I'm just trying to get to the point where I can."Analysing the latest executive orders to come across the desk of Joe Biden including a new direction on immigration and push for American manufacturing, plus shoving $1.9 trillion of COVID relief across the line without bipartisan debate. Meanwhile, Donald Trump is struggling to mount a legal team or defence when it comes to his second round of impeachment proceedings. Also talking Biden's phone call with Vladimir Putin, ending the filibuster, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Ted Cruz trying to be the new Trump, and six more weeks of winter according to Punxsutawney Phil.
"There are a lot of systemic inequalities that exist in the US and I think even starting to chip away will mean tremendous progress."Ed and Sean are joined again by Dana Rawls and Stephanie Zuniga-Maher from Democrats Abroad this week in a supersized chat! One week in and the Biden Administration has hit the ground running, we discuss the latest cabinet appointees and what is on the agenda for the first 100 days, including COVID economic relief, unemployment, immigration and racial inequality. Plus what the result in Georgia means for Southern Democrats and the role of Kamala Harris in the new administration.
"Talking about healing... Talking to the soul of America."Joe Biden has officially been sworn in as President of the United States of America, with Kamala Harris making history as his VP. Already the Biden administration is coming out swinging with a slew of executive orders looking at tackling the COVID crisis and breaking down the legacy of the Trump presidency. But it's not all good news coming back from the break over the new year, as Ed and Sean discuss the Trump insurrection and ongoing consequences of political violence becoming mainstream.
"The battle's not over, but at least we all have the same direction now."2020 has been one for the history books, and most of us will be happy to see it consigned to history as well. Looking at the highs and lows of the year for the United States, including COVID-19 and the complete mismanagement that has led now to over 300,000 deaths. The ups and downs of the Black Lives Matter movement and need for change, and of course, the presidential campaign along with the utter depths of lows we've seen since the result in November.
"You cannot pardon yourself for the commission of a crime that was intended to interfere with the rules and rights of American citizens."While much of the world celebrates a COVID vaccine and looks toward recovery, the United States is registering single day highs in terms of COVID deaths. Meanwhile, Trump lawsuits are collapsing due to the weight of evidence in the 2020 election, and Trump, uninterested in governing, is collapsing as well. First though, talking new additions to the Biden cabinet, and we discuss William Barr, Rudy Giuliani, and unpack the Senate race in Georgia.Next week will be our final episode for 2020, discussing the highs and the (numerous) lows of the last year.
"You'd think they'd want to give people a Christmas present, a little turkey in the stocking or whatever."Looking at the latest Joe Biden cabinet picks and just how difficult the confirmation process is going to be, depending on the results in Georgia. And coming into Christmas, Mitch McConnell is more interested in playing Scrooge and leaving a mess for Biden than helping Americans through what could be a very lean Christmas. Plus surrender on COVID, Trump's pardon-for-pay, fundraising schemes, and threats against the $780 billion military funding bill.
"What [Biden is] trying to do is get people who know how to run the government, it's been mismanaged for four years."Taking a look at Joe Biden's picks so far for cabinet positions, and how they're likely to shape policy and foreign relations going forward. The transition preceding in earnest, yet it seems the Trump administration can't resist some more 'mischief' on the way out with Mike Pompeo reportedly in secret talks with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Also talking climate policy, a pardon for Michael Flynn, Georgia, and Thanksgiving - what are we most thankful for?
"Americans are dying because of Mitch McConnell, and people ought to know that."In spite of Donald Trump's best effort, the Biden administration has been busy transitioning into power with new appointees to White House roles and laying the groundwork for early policy. But Trump and Republicans seem determined to wreck the joint and hand Biden a poisoned chalice, even if it costs American lives thanks to raging COVID rates and a desperate need for economic stimulus. Also looking at a COVID vaccine, military uncertainty in Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran, the senate race in Georgia, and Lindsey Graham.
"We have to be patient, because [Trump] is going to use every trick in the book and some we haven't even seen yet."Its official, Joe Biden will be the next President of the United States of America. But if Biden and Harris are busy trying to build bridges and heal an America that's been broken down the middle, Donald Trump is busy blowing them up. Baseless claims of election fraud and interference, and an incumbent that refuses to concede, means it's still a rocky road ahead to inauguration day.With special guest Stephanie Zuniga-Maher from Democrats Abroad.
"There's more in the tank."While at time of recording we still cannot declare an official winner, the stage is set for Joe Biden to officially take over as the 46th President of the United States. It's not all good news for Democrats, however, with a much tighter race than suggested by polls, Republicans slated to hold the Senate, and Dems actually going backwards in the House, despite clinging to a majority. So where did it go right for Biden? Where did it go wrong? And what happens next, particularly if Donald Trump continues to claim victory?
Leading into the close of the ballots, Ed and Sean literally counted down the final few hours of the election race in a broadcast for 2ser 107.3 (9am - 12pm AEDT)Discussing the states to watch and senate turnout, the battle for the soul of America, voter suppression and intimidation, what the mandate will be depending on Senate results and more... Joined by Dana Rawls and Stephanie Zuniga-Maher from Democrats Abroad and Brendan O'Connor from the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.Additional Producers:Rod ChambersTina QuinnRyan StantonMax Tillman
"Go blue."Coming into the final week of the election race and all the polls look good for Joe Biden, but it's only the one on election day that counts. Amy Coney Barrett has been quickly confirmed ahead of the result as well though, raising fears about her role in a potential voting stalemate and questions about the future of the court. Talking the final debate, Barrett, swing states, bringing out the big guns in the Biden campaign, voting, as well as the latest from Lebanon and COVID cases in Europe.
"He's out of money, he's out of time, and he's out of games he can play."As we enter the final stretch, Trump is running the same plays as 2016 but looking a great deal more unsteady on his feet, while Democrats have learned to duck and weave. With voters on track for a record number of early turnouts, however, Americans seem largely decided even if the actual result remains undecided. Talking all the latest on the race including the final debate, shots fired at Hunter Biden and Dr Anthony Fauci, COVID, and the Supreme Court.
"A lot of people are saying, this is my right, this is my privilege, this is my duty as an American, and I'm not going to throw that aside."In this supersized special, Ed and Sean are once again joined by Dana Rawls and Stephanie Zuniga-Maher to take a look at the polls, key states, and key issues two weeks out from election day on November 3rd. Looking at record numbers of Americans voting early, and ongoing attempts at voter suppression and intimidation, COVID-19 and its impact on the issues, Amy Coney Barrett, the final debate, and voting in key demographics across battleground states.
"Trump keeps talking about someone stealing the election - it seems to be his side."The plot to kidnap Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, while the perpetrators were almost certainly emboldened by Donald Trump, does it benefit him and could we see more in the event of a Joe Biden victory? Amy Coney Barrett's hearings have been a shambolic affair with a sense of inevitability about the result, can anything hold her back from the Supreme Court now? Also we talk Lindsey Graham, financial relief, voter suppression and other "chicanery", and the latest from the election trail - will there be another debate?
"There's no hiding from this now... but the Republicans want to make lemonade out of these lemons."In a fresh, chaotic twist to an already chaotic race, late last week it was announced Donald Trump and other top Republican figures had contracted COVID-19. Looking at the way in which both sides scrambled to turn the news to their advantage, and what happens if the president worsens in the coming week? Plus the VP Debate, latest on Trump's taxes, Breonna Taylor, and Senate seats being targeted in the election race.
"There's an opening that we can flip the Senate, that Democrats can take back the Senate."All eyes have been on the race to the White House, with media and polls focused on who will be America's next president. But to really decide the future of the nation, the race to control the Senate could be much more important. Ed and Sean are joined by Dana Rawls and Stephanie Zuniga-Maher from Democrats Abroad to talk about some of the biggest issues of the 2020 campaign and how they'll be affected by the makeup of the Senate; Healthcare, Jobs, and Voting Rights.
"It was a shameful exhibition, but more damaging is the damage it did to the United States around the world."Unravelling the mess that was the first presidential debate, where the most lucid statements Donald Trump had to make were calling for white supremacists to stand by and for voter intimidation. Trump's taxes, or lack thereof, also finally released, not by the president as long promised but by the New York Times, and with impeccable timing. Also talking Amy Coney Barrett, Brad Parscale, Alexei Navalny and black voters targeted for 'deterrence'.
"Her steady hand on issues of social justice, civil justice, her pioneering ways."From humble beginnings through fighting for feminism to taking a seat on the highest court of the land, Ruth Bader Ginsburg became an icon and inspiration to people, not just in the United States but around the world. Ed and Sean are joined by Dana Rawls and Stephanie Zuniga-Maher from Democrats Abroad to discuss the life and legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in this special edition of US of Ed, as well as touching on the battle to see her replaced and key issues the court will be facing in her absence.
"The nuclear option is the only one remaining."Sadly, this week saw the passing of Supreme Court Justice and feminist icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg. While a full accounting of her legacy is yet to be felt, literally within an hour of the announcement of her passing Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell was quick to say the Senate would expedite Trump's replacement for Ginsburg on the Supreme Court, sparking cries of Republican hypocrisy and an ugly battle for votes. Trump has his only legal troubles though with a fresh investigation into his taxes in Manhattan. We're also looking at 200,000 COVID deaths in the US, protests, Breonna Taylor, Iran sanctions, and Joe Biden's latest endorsements.
"People know violence breeds violence and for the president to be on the side, one way or the other, is causing his polls to go down."Trump continues to escalate tensions around protest movements in the US, calling for 'retribution', but is the focus on law and order distracting at all from his failures on other issues? Meanwhile, a historic peace deal signed by Israel, the UAE and Bahrain presided over by Trump, could it repair his reputation as a deal maker and even net him a Nobel Peace Prize? Also talking the E. Jean Carroll defamation case, trade, misinformation on COVID, West Coast fires, and latest from the election race.
"He knew how bad it was, he knew how deadly it was, and then he has no game plan."Suckers and losers, some choice words from Trump regarding America's much-venerated war dead, and Trump on tape admitting he underplayed the threat of COVID-19 from the start. For any other president, these would be historical scandals but given everyone has pretty much made up their mind on Trump, will they have any impact on the race? Also talking Louis DeJoy, a COVID vaccine, California, Australian journos out of China, Brexit news, and latest on the election race.
"They're trying to scare the American electorate into a victory."Violent scenes from Portland and Kenosha looking more and more like a second Civil War, and with the actions of Kenosha shooter Kyle Rittenhouse lionised in the conservative media and by Donald Trump himself it doesn't seem likely to stop any time soon. Meanwhile, a federal court has again blocked the release of Trump's tax returns until after the November election. Also talking Breonna Taylor, Hurricane Laura, Shinzo Abe and 9/11 remembrances coming up next week.
"I think this was a homage to Trump, little policy, little substance."Republicans held their convention this week to officially renominate Donald Trump for the White House, so what were they selling and who's buying? Meanwhile, Black Lives Matter protests have been reignited following the police shooting of Jacob Brown with violence erupting as far-right militia involve themselves in proceedings and the NBA cancels games as a sign of protest. Also talking Iran sanctions, poisoning of Alexei Navalny and just what is going on with Kim Jong-un?
"Racial and economic justice, healthcare, honesty in bureaucracy, restoring international relationships. Making America honest again."The Democratic Convention was a showstopper this week, as Joe Biden officially accepted the mantle of his party's presidential candidate and Kamala Harris made history as his running mate. First though, we know that any result where Biden/Harris wins is likely to be challenged by Donald Trump as illegitimate, "proof" the election was rigged, but with all the interference and undermining coming from Trump and Republicans we have to ask, at what point would a Trump victory instead be seen as illegitimate? Also talking the latest on USPS, Russian interference, and the Israel / UAE peace deal.
"People in the suburbs... they don't care what colour she is, they know she's real."Kamala Harris has been at long last confirmed as Joe Biden's running mate, so what factors are going to work for and against her in November? And what can we expect from next week's Democratic convention? Republicans also have dirty tricks up their sleeves, hacking away at the United States Postal Service and using Kanye West to run interference. Also talking COVID latest, the Great American Outdoors Act, Lebanon, TikTok, and the spectre of Trump's face on Mount Rushmore.
"The ongoing economy is falling even faster, so this is something deeper than the Depression, I don't know how the United States gets out of this."Widely denounced and largely in-character, Trump's calls to delay the November election may come to nothing but they did serve to distract away from the States' dire economic position. But his constant attacks on mail-in voting could damage Republicans more so than Democrats. And one of the largest non-nuclear blasts on record has rocked Beirut, how will if affect a country already teetering on the edge? Also talking the latest on COVID, William Barr, Roger Stone, and Joe Biden, where is his running mate?
"Trump did so much damage and the nation is so far behind, that's going to be a really tough catch-up but a very necessary one."Bumper episode this week as Ed and Sean look at what's in the Democratic platform for 2020, both foreign and domestic. How might relations with China be improved under Biden? What about Russia and Syria? What approach are Democrats taking on improving Obamacare? Where's the plan on climate change and environmental cutbacks? But first, a quick look at the news, with COVID deaths, Portland retreat, William Barr and the passing of John Lewis.
"There's people who now want him out at any cost, and it may be bloody."It's been a concern for some time now, but following fresh comments this week what happens if Trump loses in November but refuses to accept the results? How likely even is such a possibility? And with the current strategy on COVID of shutting eyes, putting fingers in ears and singing loudly failing to do much to stop the pandemic, Trump is switching tacks but reasons things will get worse before they get better. Also talking Roger Stone, pandemic compensation, militant crackdown in Portland, and Joe Biden keeping his head way, way down in the lead-up to November.
"It took the Supreme Court to wrest justice back for America and give the nation some spine."No man is above the law declares the latest Supreme Court decision regarding Donald Trump's financial records, limiting the presidential power Trump has been relying on to keep himself above prosecution. Although the public may not see those records before the November election, the loss is part of a larger losing streak Trump and Republicans are experiencing in the court. Ed and Sean take a look at the latest decision, and implications on cases such as the Louisiana abortion bill, Oklahoma reservations, DACA and more.
"[Trump] is peddling a message that nobody really wants to hear."Trump seems to be counting on dividing Americans even further into Us and Them camps in order to win in 2020, inflaming the divides already being fought, or maybe his strategy is just to lose. Meanwhile, claims that the US is a global leader in COVID, and it is, just in all the worst ways. Also talking Ghislaine Maxwell, why Russian bounties have disappeared from headlines, Israel, Black Lives Matter, and Kanye West's run at the presidency.
"The president knew nothing, and didn't want to know."Big week this week as Ed and Sean talk bounties offered by Russia on US soldiers, and why it seems the supposedly pro-military Trump did nothing to defend American lives. Plus picking apart the Democrats' Green New Deal, hope for a brighter tomorrow or purely political exercise? Plus the latest reboot; the Soviet Union, spikes of COVID-19, abortion clinics in the Supreme Court, Hong Kong, and escalating rhetoric on the national divide.
"He can't declare a victory anywhere, everything looks like a failure."What was meant to be a triumphant return to the campaign trail for Donald Trump ended up a fizzling failure in Tulsa, with rows upon rows of empty seats and abandoned overflow areas, but is there more it can tell us about the 2020 campaign? And is Biden doing much better? Meanwhile, William Barr is doing untold damage to the Justice Department as calls grow for his impeachment. Also talking the latest on COVID-19, Roger Stone, foreign worker visas, and Black Lives Matter.
"Their ability to put other people down because of their sexual orientation, because their skin colour, or whatever, is coming to an end."Good news out of the Supreme Court for LGBTQ rights in what's being called the most important decision out of the court in this area since marriage equality was put into law in 2015. Good news and bad for black lives matter protests globally as the heat is kept on making real reforms, but some protesters are also meeting violent resistance. Also, we talk John Bolton, post-COVID, North Korea, Brexit and more.
"This is a worldwide change, I think it's going to rival what we've been doing with climate change."Protests sparked by the death of George Floyd continue to cripple America, but at long last might we be seeing some real positive progress on injustice in the USA and around the world, racial and otherwise? And while COVID sees a small spike against the grain in some states, some positive news on the economic front, although that's not the case for Latin America and Russia. Also talking North Korea, nuclear treaties, Prince Andrew, and Democrats looking to wrest control of the Senate.
"The system is deeply broken, very fragile, not just in the United States but around the world."It's a tumultuous and evolving situation, but Ed and Sean do their best to unpack the factors behind the George Floyd protests and consequences going forward. Racial injustice, COVID, and an utter failure of leadership from on top, we also talk attacks on media, attempts to blame antifa, and how, as someone who marched with Martin Luther King Jr himself, Ed thinks MLK might have seen attempts to use his quotations to shame black protesters into silence. Also checking in with what's happening with COVID since it's been knocked off the front pages, the G7, Trump vs Twitter, and former Bush alumni for Biden.
"If you don't reopen, you may be facing economic death."Over 100,000 deaths and yet the United States is reopening despite the ongoing threat of COVID-19, could we be looking at even worse numbers in a second wave of cases? Brazil and Russia also hit hard and their leaders look vulnerable, and just how will China be investigated and punished? Also talking Trump's attacks on facts, Hong Kong, Palestine, and the death of Minneapolis man George Floyd.
"He's tried to pin this tail on every donkey... and each time it has failed."Obamagate limps on into this week but we're no clearer on understanding what's behind it and even as a distraction it seems like a loser. Then again, even as we approach 100,000 US deaths from COVID we're still talking about it, so maybe it's working after all? Also, as the United States retreats from the world, China rises to fill the gaps - what does it mean for WHO and for Australia? Also talking Steve Linick and John Ratcliffe, hydroxychloroquine, unemployment, and mail-in voting.
"Last minute, last deal... Making it worse is his promise."With the economy down, failed promises and Trump facing criticism over lives lost due to his disastrous COVID-19 response, get ready for more and more diversions starting with Obamagate. Meanwhile the Supreme Court set to decide on releasing Trump's financial dealings and tearing down the ACA in the middle of a global health crisis. Also talking relations with China, Russia's incredibly clumsy whistleblower problem, and the shooting of Ahmaud Arbery.
"This'll be a fig leaf over a very exposed body, it won't work."States are looking at reopening despite high numbers of COVID cases being reported, could we be looking at a lethal second wave? Someone who is most definitely alive and not at all dead is glorious leader Kim Jong-un, but just what is going on in North Korea? We're also talking economic stimulus, food security during COVID, nine lives for Benjamin Netanyahu, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Joe Biden assault allegations and running mate.
"Non-leadership at its best."American now accounts for a third of the world's COVID cases and the death toll as a result of failure to deal with the crisis is over 60,000, but Trump's latest miracle cure is still capable of eliciting a stunned reaction. Falling back on immigration issues, stimulus cheques, and looking increasingly pathetic, what might a desperate Trump do to stay in power in 2020? Also talking big business stimulus boons, Jair Bolsonaro, and Ohio.
"He knows these people won't desert him if he acts like he supports them... actually, it's working."Trump stirring up some uniquely American protesters this week with cries for liberty against state governments, despite those states not reaching minimum requirements the Trump administration itself has set. Oil prices have taken another massive dive despite the Easter deal and could keep plummeting, but is it an indication of a better, cleaner future post-COVID? Also talking immigration, Canada's worst ever mass shooting, North Korea's leadership problems, and why is Biden letting Bernie keep his delegates?
"[Trump] can't find enough scapegoats, he never looks at himself."Increasingly unstable over the COVID-19 crisis, Donald Trump is looking for anyone to blame but himself and his latest move is removing American government funding from the World Health Organisation. After a brutal election result for Republicans in Wisconsin and big name endorsements for Joe Biden this week, we play some Fantasy League with a potential Cabinet for the Dem nominee. Also talking suing China over coronavirus, tornadoes in the South, and an OPEC deal reached over Easter.
"I don't anticipate the Democrats doing much of anything about this except throwing it back in our faces as another reason this man's got to go."He ran a great race, some would say much better than the eventual victor, but the Bern has been extinguished leaving the field open for Joe Biden to take on Trump in November. Trump, meanwhile, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic is cleaning house of officials he perceives as disloyal and using hours-long press conferences to deny unfavourable stories oxygen in the media. We talk more on the road ahead for Biden, coronavirus, Boris Johnson, and voter suppression in Wisconsin in this week's bumper podcast.
"This is a very feeble effort against a very big storm."With 100,000 deaths projected as a minimum and historic economic downturn, it may be a very different looking America that comes out the other end of the Covid-19 crisis. Individual states have been filling in the gaps of a paralysed federal government in responding to the pandemic, how are they taking matters into their own hands? Also, senators and insider trading, Joe Biden assault allegation, and the passing of Reverend Joseph Lowery.
"Americans need to come together, not be split apart."Save lives or save the economy? Despite a two trillion dollar stimulus package being passed Trump and cronies don't seem satisfied and want America back to work, whatever the cost. Obamacare turned ten this week, how well equipped was it to handle the current crisis and what might be improved once it's all over? Also talking UK in lockdown, Tokyo Olympics, and moving forward despite everything in the Democratic nominee race.
"This sounds like Trump, he takes responsibility for nothing except when the economy's going up."Fevers aren't the only thing that are high, with unemployment rates and gun sales surging amidst the corvid-19 pandemic, but with Trump the buck, as always, passes onto someone else. Joe Biden's path to the presidential nomination is now virtually assured, we talk about what kind of shape he's in for the next leg of the race and run through the candidates for running mate. Also talk Mitch McConnell asking federal judges for a favour, and political chaos in Iraq and Israel.
"Joe Biden's not that popular, but people are beginning to say we need an adult in the room."Joe Biden has extended his lead since Super Tuesday but Bernie refuses to drop out and Warren hasn't said who she'll support, is there still anymore juice to this nomination race or is it all over but the crying? WHO have officially declared Corvid-19 a pandemic and the US has shut down travel into Europe but does the virus have Trump showing his true colours as a leader? Also Mueller makes a comeback Russia, North Korea, and what to expect next in the 2020 race.
"It's Biden's campaign to lose right now."Just when we thought he was out, they pull him back in, Joe Biden the big winner following Super Tuesday but is he a returning champion or an uninspiring best of a bad lot? Ed and Sean talk potential for a Democratic super team, coronavirus, Chuck Schumer reaping the whirlwind, and a concerning appeals court finding for congressional oversight.
"I'm feeling the heartburn that Bernie will run, and lose, and Trump will be the next president of the United States."Democrats getting down and dirty, fighting like cats in a sack after results in Nevada puts Bernie Sanders in the lead. Is there a path to victory for him, or for any of the Democratic nominees in November? Meanwhile, Trump spiced things up in India but couldn't quite seal the deal. Also talking Roger Stone trial and Trump attacks on Ginsburg and Sotomayor, Coronavirus, Israel and Brexit.
"The democracy is in trouble and this is a huge symptom."Donald Trump is running wild and looking fearless in the face of the 2020 election as Democrats spend more energy on imploding and shredding one another senseless than getting ready for a presidential campaign. Bloomberg's billions have bought his way into a nomination process that looks less like a race, more like a slow slide into oblivion. Also talking William Barr, sanctuary cities, Taliban negotiations, coronavirus and Jeff Bezos.
"When a democracy's afraid of the truth, it can't last."Following an end to impeachment proceedings last week, Donald Trump has taken no time in enacting some revenge on witnesses he feel have wronged him. William Barr won't be on Trump's list though, the Attorney General bending the will of the Department of Justice in the case of Roger Stone to Trump's wishes. Also talking Trump budget cuts and push for space, threat of white nationalism, coronavirus, and Ed makes some big, big calls for Democrats in the 2020 race.
"He just got over the line and I think everybody knows it."Acquitted, exonerated, absolved of all sins, Republicans have voted against removing Donald Trump from office with only one tiny flare of dissent in the form of Mitt Romney, what are we going to talk about now? Iowa was a disappointment for political devotees waiting eagerly on results and doubly so for those in the Biden camp. We discuss what went wrong as well as State of the Union and Brexit fallout for both Britain and the EU.
"We're going to have a real mistrial here where the president isn't really exonerated, they'll just say, we're not going to remove him but no one's going to say he isn't guilty."The latest day of impeachment proceedings revolved around the question of witnesses, in particular if John Bolton's latest book tour would be stopping off in the Senate. Peace in the Middle East could be achieved if Israel gets all that it wants out of a deal with Pakistan, Trump coming to bat right around the time Benjamin Netanyahu needs a win. Also talking coronavirus, budget black holes, Brexit, and just how important are the Iowa caucuses?
"They cut the head off this snake and the snake couldn't rattle."Donald Trump's impeachment moves into the Senate at long, long last but while Trump is literally boasting about withholding evidence from Democrats, Republicans see little to be concerned about. Meanwhile, a huge turnout of pro-gun advocates playing soldier in Virginia and rubbing elbows with neo-Nazis and the extreme right. Also talking climate change and tariffs in Davos, ugly scenes between Democratic frontrunners, and a reflection on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
"Mr Giuliani, his self-appointed saviour, could send him right down the drain."Impeachment articles have been delivered to the Senate by the House, so how much longer will this go on and, with fresh proof of Rudy Giuliani's actions in the Ukraine, has the rabbit hole still got some depths to plunge? The entire Russian government bar Vladimir Putin are on their way out this week, what are the implications for Putin's power and the US? Also talking Iran, a Chinese trade deal, Puerto Rico, and a feud emerges between Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders.
"This is not an ordinary war and a few bombs are not going to end it."It’s a new year, a new us, and a new war, Ed and Sean are back for 2020 talking the assassination of Qasem Soleimani and spectre of war with Iran. A war that could quickly turn nuclear, started largely to distract from Trump's impeachment. And Australia's bushfires have stunned the world and provide a dire warning about climate change and extreme weather threats. Also talking Bernie Sanders, good news for Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Brexit
"I think 2020 is going to be a year not of crisis, but a reawakening of real democracy."For their last chat of 2019, Ed and Sean discuss the big stories of the year, some that feel like only yesterday and some we may have forgotten. Including the government in shutdown, the Mueller report and its implications now, a neverending trade standoff with China, Syria, climate change, and impeachment. And with so much division and unrest in the likes of Israel, Hong Kong and South America, and events like the Christchurch and El Paso shootings or Iran attacks, what will 2020 bring in terms of stability?
"This is damaging Trump but it may not kill him, and when you aim at the king you better shoot at the head."Trump struggling to find a break this week, with impeachment hearings at home declaring him guilty of abusing his office and putting himself above the national interest. Abroad, some NATO bullies caught making fun of him behind his back also means he's had to take his ball and go home. Also talking French tariffs, a shooting in New Orleans, the UK London Bridge stabbing, and Kamala Harris out of the presidential race.
"People know the president is guilty, they simply don't care."Impeachment, when will it end? Although hearings are over for the Thanksgiving break it seems Democrats need a vote before voters are completely done with it all. Trump graduating from interfering with normal crimes to war crimes in the case of Eddie Gallagher and other military members. Also talking White House cybersecurity, Israel, Hong Kong, Sarah Sanders, Michael Bloomberg, and what are we thankful for on Thanksgiving 2019?
"Epstein, if the story ever comes out, it's going to be worse than we ever thought."Ed back in the studio this week, discussing Sondland's testimony as the EU ambassador turns on Trump. And Jeffrey Epstein, still dead but back in the spotlight this week after Prince Andrew's disastrous interview trying to clear his name and two guards charged with falsifying reports. Also kids behind bars, meth, Israel's lack of a government, and violent unrest in Bolivia, Chile, and Hong Kong.
"This may come out to be the big story in all of this. It's coming out more and more that the Russians are pulling the strings."Impeachment goes public but with transcripts of previous testimony readily available and round-the-clock coverage, is there anything we don't already know? Dreamers under threat as conservatives on the Supreme Court appear to be eye siding with Trump against the DACA program. Also talking Roger Stone and WikiLeaks, Remington's failed appeal, trade, and climate change fires and floods.
"Makes no difference who the whistleblower is, the truth is the truth."11,000 scientists worldwide have come together to warn of our current climate emergency, the same week Donald Trump has decided to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement, making it the only country in the world to do so. Of course, Trump has problems enough at home with impeachment getting worse, whistleblowers to illegally obstruct, FEMA funding to deny and state elections to lose. Also talking shooting deaths in Mexico, the Asia-Pacific trade deal, and the latest from the Democratic race.
"He let the military do their job for a change, now he can take credit for it, that is not a change but thumbs up."The takedown of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi a success at a time when the Trump administration really needs a win, and credit where credit is due. Impeachment rolls on regardless, with John Bolton set to testify and some truly disturbing attacks made on Ukrainian-born Lt Col Alexander Vindman. Also talking Kurds in Syria, California fires, Lebanon, UK election, and the passing of John Conyers.
"They're protecting themselves, and they don't care about the democracy at this point."Ceasefire in Syria continues, and Trump is leaving troops behind to guard the precious, precious oil, but to whose benefit? All guns blazing on impeachment though, as US envoy to Ukraine William Taylor asserts quid pro quo was most definitely in action exchanging military aid for dirt on Biden, Trump calling the impeachment inquiry a lynching and Republicans staging a sit-in protest to delay proceedings. Also, the Canadian election, Israel, Brexit, and key issues for Democrats moving into 2020.
"Trump is really sorry he did this because not only is he losing allies in Europe, some of his staunchest figures in the United States are backing away."Outcry at home and abroad over proceedings in Syria are losing Trump supporters when he needs them most, and as subpoenas and investigations continue, who is going to be the first shoved under the bus? ProPublica has also given a tantalising taste of what's yet to be revealed in Trump's tax returns, and could mean charges for Trump once, if, he leaves the White House. Also discussing Saudi Arabia, Ohio Opiod Trial, and the Atatiana Jefferson shooting.For an in-depth look at issues of police shootings and other things plaguing black Americans, check out the US of Ed: Black America special.
"This'll lead to not just the massacre of the Kurds, but the massacre of a lot of Syrians and ISIS on the move again."Since impeachment proceedings, Trump has doubled down on corruption claims surrounding Joe Biden and calls for (still illegal) foreign investigations, as well as throwing out accusations of treason and forbidding cooperation, how low can things go? This week also sees the administration face condemnation for abandoning Kurdish fighters in Syria, another chapter in a long series of betrayals. Also talking Open Skies Treaty, the rich getting richer, China throwing its weight around, and Joe Biden's 2020 hopes.
"Going through this process is excruciating."On September 24th, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced a formal impeachment inquiry against President Trump for allegedly betraying his oath of office and the country's national security. It's a move that some Democrats and anti-Trumpers have been crying out to see for some time, but what will proceedings involve and what happens if Trump is actually impeached? Ed and Sean talk the process, how long, the likely fallout, and compare the cases of previous presidents, Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Richard Nixon.
"With the Mueller investigation, with Cohen, with everything else, the final shoe has dropped."After a chat with Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky was perceived as lightly treasonous, Donald Trump finds himself in the hottest of the hot water that has defined his political career with Nancy Pelosi announcing impeachment proceedings, but Teflon Trump is a long way from sunk. Looking at impeachment, how the Ukraine situation could also hurt Joe Biden, Mr Morrison Goes to Washington, UN Climate Summit, Boris Johnson, and Elizabeth Warren's 2020 chances.
"These are Trump allies, not US allies, Saudi Arabia is not an ally of the United States but an ally of Mr Trump."Saudi Arabia has lost half its country's oil reserves in an unexpected attack and Trump is pointing the finger at Iran, are American boots on Iranian soil now inevitable? In the courts, conservatives going to bat for Brett Kavanaugh over fresh sexual assault allegations and former Trump aides told to ignore subpoenas by the White House. Also the GM workers strike, Israeli election, Beto O'Rourke's forced buyback proposal and Feelin' the Bern on the road to 2020.
"National security's in a lot of trouble."National Security Advisor John Bolton has departed the White House, leaving some of America's enemies, and allies, breathing a sigh of relief. But did he jump or was he pushed? And Trump has blown up plans to meet the Taliban at presidential retreat Camp David, but just how bad of an idea was it in the first place? Also talking North Carolina, Republican primaries, Brexit and firebrand Democrat Kamala Harris.
"He's going to have to pay a big price for this, and US citizens will pay that same price."Although it may fall short of Alabama, Hurricane Dorian has hammered the Bahamas and continues to make its way up the East Coast. Hurricane Trump continues to wreak his unique form of chaos on the economy and the Pentagon budget, and in the UK Boris Johnson has seen his Parliamentary majority blow away. Also talking the Odessa shooting and Andrew Yang's 2020 aspirations.
"He's got no place to turn now with the economy softening."Hereby, Emperor Trump can try ordering American businesses to turn away from China but he seems to be running out of friends, except for a few Russian oligarchs and British PM Boris Johnson that is. And while the Amazon was burning this week, the president looking to quietly remove protections from Alaska's Tongass National Forest. Also, landmark news for the opioid crisis, the Jeffrey Epstein case, Brexit, and this week's spotlight on South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg.
"This sounds like something out of the 1930s in Germany. The Jews that you don't like are a liability, and something has to happen to them."...and I did not speak out, because I was not a Mexican... This week, Trump's big real estate deal, looking to buy Greenland, its resources and 56,000 citizens at wholesale prices, and more worrying comments about ignorant and disloyal Jewish voters. Meanwhile, the global economy teeters on the brink of recession and hope is fading for China. Also talking Russia and the G7, indefinite detention for undocumented families, Brexit, and Beto O'Rourke in the 2020 spotlight this week.
"The most threatened species is this administration, every one of its birds has been shot, by the Congress, by the public, and so on."Conspiracies surround the death of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, just the thing to distract from a looming recession, retreat in the China trade war, and weakening of the Endangered Species Act. Looking at the Democrats' 2020 field, we take a butchers at Amy Klobutchar for a possible VP slot. Also talking Hong Kong, gun laws, and mass killings beget more death abroad.
"Their irrational actions are guided by a rational system of propaganda that they're being fed, and that's the real danger.Shootings in El Paso and Dayton, Ohio have renewed calls for tougher gun legislation and inflamed fears around white nationalists and domestic terror. Also looking at the Democratic field for presidential candidates in 2020, we profile New Jersey Senator Corey Booker. And talking Trump’s elusive tax returns, again, Venezuela, and ICE’s largest single-state crackdown on illegal immigrants.
"The move to the left is really on, nobody challenged the move to the left."While the democratic debates latest round didn't throw up any major curveballs, a leftward tilt seems to be in the cards for the party and their nominee. On the road to 2020 though, Moscow Mitch keeps knocking back proposals to keep Russian fingers out of the American pie. Also talking US-China Trade, North Korea, Kelly Craft, and continuing family separations at the Mexico border.
"If he wins the election the Democrats will go crazy, and they'll come after him, and probably throw the kitchen sink after him."We're back in time to catch Mueller's testimony in front of Congress, but aside from a potential press op for Democrats being mostly squandered was anything achieved? Trump's latest racist comments are practically business as usual, but could they be more than a slip but instead testing the waters on an even uglier 2020 campaign? Also talking skyrocketing deficit, Iran, Pakistan, and the UK's answer to Trump, Boris Johnson, taking over Number 10.
"We can't say we're going to lower the temperatures, we can't say we're going to improve the oceans. What we have to say is, how do we adapt to the new climate that's coming?"It is almost certainly too late to undo the havoc being wreaked by damage done to our climate. But is it possible for the United States and other nations to not only survive but thrive in the era of climate change? We talk climate change's impacts on national security, migration, food security and infrastructure, the economic benefits of accepting climate change as a reality, and why politics keeps hobbling potential momentum.
"The American Dream came fast and went fast, and now it's dead."For native Americans it was the the house and two car garage, 2.4 kids and white picket fence, all on a factory job wage. For migrants, it was the Land of Opportunity. But it seems the American Dream is dead and buried, leaving Americans economically, mentally and spiritually bereft. In this special we talk about failures in the economy, the education system and perception that led here, whether the America Dream's heyday was all it was cracked up to be, and a new dream for the future.
"Our cities have grown up exchanging goods, now we have to exchange knowledge."Something different this week while Ed and Sean are both away, celebrating the release of Ed's new book with Richard Hu Crafting Innovative Places for Australia's Knowledge Economy. With a more Australian focus, we discuss what the knowledge economy is and how towns and cities can best facilitate it. Why physical space is still important in the digital era, following American examples, and whether Australia is sacrificing innovation to prop up traditional areas of the economy.
"I think he did the right thing but, you know, sometimes a blind man can hit a target."Mueller to be grilled by Congress next month, but is there any point when the Mueller Report said all he's been willing to say? Trump pulling out of a strike on Iran at the penultimate moment seems to have been a wise and humane decision, but it was also a situation entirely of his own making. Also talking sexual assault accusations, Hope Hicks, kids in detention, and has Trump actually made a positive move on healthcare?Ed and Sean will be away for three weeks but in the meantime a series of specials have been scheduled, looking at the Knowledge Economy, The Death of the American Dream, and Climate Change.
"Trump knows this game better than anyone... Don't try to out-Trump Trump."Donald Trump has officially launched his reelection bid for 2020 this week, but has he got anything new or is it the same old bag of tricks? Sarah Sanders and Patrick Shanahan on their way out, we take a look at how many key roles in the Trump administration still remain unfilled by permanent personnel. Also talking Gulf of Oman tanker attacks, MH17, migrant roundups, and another viral confrontation between police and a black family.
"We have over 35% of the people wanting impeachment, that's more than wanted it for Nixon... Clinton had less numbers of that when he was in fact impeached."It's US of Ed's 100th episode! And it's also Donald Trump's 73rd birthday this week, so with subpoenas flying, Hope Hicks before the House Judiciary Committee, and appetite for impeachment ramping up, what will Trump wish for when he blow out the candles? Also talking spying on North Korea, Iran's nuclear capabilities, tariff warfare, and more.
"2050's right around the corner... if we can't curb it now, we can't curb it."Getting the big issues out of the way early this week, with a report claiming climate change will see human civilisation crumble by 2050, and potential food insecurity concerns happening in the States right now. Meanwhile, on the Mexico border, threats of tariffs from Trump that even Republicans don't want and claims detainee deaths in ICE custody resulted from lack of proper care. Also talking North Korea, disaster aid, Biden versus Warren, and anarchy in the UK.Read the report from The Young Turks referenced in this podcast here.
"He's put it back at the feet of the devil, as it were. The AG, the Attorney General, didn't tell the truth."Robert Mueller's surprise appearance to clear up misinterpretations of his completed report has given impeachment talks their strongest push yet, but will anything come of it? Meanwhile, Trump contradicts on Iran and North Korea, and is actively burying the science on climate change. Also talking, Syria, Nancy Pelosi, and the switch to Unleaded Freedom Molecules.
"We'll see where this new Supreme Court goes, and all bets are off here."A war on the right to choose as Alabama and Missouri become the latest states to pass draconian anti-choice legislation, could it mean the of Roe v. Wade? The Trump administration dancing around military action in Iran and on the offensive in the trade war against China. Also talking farm bailouts, Huawei, tax returns, and "The I Word" - Impeachment.
"We have some countries that are very near collapse... Let's see if we can prevent that by doing the right thing now. We really can't wait til 2020."Sick of talking about Trump, we gave ourselves a week off to travel south of the border and talk about issues plaguing Central and South America. Record numbers at the US-Mexico Border and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrado. The latest on the Venezuelan Crisis and sanctions on Cuba, Brazil's rightward turn under Jair Bolsonaro and fears for the Amazon, Argentina's money troubles, Bolivia, and recovery for Puerto Rico.
"Showtime USA, the president has no policies, no programs, no directions, so more show, that's what we're going to get for a long time."Contempt seems commonplace in the current American political environment, but as William Barr is voted in contempt of Congress Trump has hit back by asserting executive privilege over the Mueller Report. Tough talk on Iran and China serving as a distraction from presidential woes. Also talking Sandra Bland, Trump taxes, and are Republicans trying to goad Democrats on impeachment?
"When Trump raises these spectres the unfortunate thing, no matter how big or deep a lie it is, there's some people who are going to repeat it."Fallout from the Mueller Report continues, with the official resignation of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and William Barr grilled in the Senate. Trump took some time off fighting subpoenas to tell some truly outrageous and disturbing lies about late-stage abortion at a rally this week, does his mental state need to be taken more seriously? Also talking, the death of Justine Damond, Venezuela, NAFTA, and the false accusations levelled at Pete Buttigieg.
"Joe Biden is what you might call, a dressed up Trump. A person with good manners, good vocabulary, but still 'one of the boys'."One week on from the Mueller Report and little has changed, impeachment seems a distant dream for anti-Trump diehards but have Republicans and Democrats set a dangerous precedent? Joe Biden has officially entered the 2020 race, will his Average Joe manner be enough? Also talking Sri Lanka, Putin and Kim Jong-un, and the American opioid crisis.Correction: This podcast refers to the death toll in the Sri Lanka Easter Attacks as "Over 350", this number has been revised down to 253 by authorities.
"There is enough dirt in that report to pin on this administration without trying to do obstruction of justice."Release of the redacted Mueller report has Washington DC in a feeding frenzy, but what does it say we didn't already know? The ousting of Julian Assange and his potential extradition set to cause another big stir that could be felt all across the 2020 election season. And all the news fit to print, Notre Dame, North Korea, attacks on Ilhan Omar, Bernie Sanders, and the resurrection of Tiger Woods' career just in time for Easter.
"If you are not accomplishing the mission, and that mission may be illegal... you're on your way out."Following last week's backdown on a Mexican border shutdown, Trump wants to step up migration controls but only seems to be making the situation worse. Homeland Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen has been forced out but her position is only one of a bunch of vacancies being filled right now. Also talking the Israel election result, measles emergencies, and Trump's new trade war with the EU.
"[Barr] put out that summary, and the summary now has to agree with the report... That summary is really a noose around the Attorney General's neck."Not content with progress on The Wall, Donald Trump threatening to shut down the Mexico border this week unless the flow of migrants stop. The wall around the Mueller Report seems to be more effective because in spite of claims it exonerates the president entirely, where is it? Also talking Joe Biden, the Obamacare fight pushed back to 2020, and Puerto Rico.
"He's emboldened now that the Mueller report is over. He's going to keep doing this, he's going to try to get rid of Obamacare by executive order. He's really become crazed with power."At long last, the Mueller Report has been complete but given we've only seen a four page summary of a 300 page report, are we just spinning our wheels trying to analyse what it all means? Meanwhile, a cool one billion dollars has been diverted from Army funds to build Trump's wall, without congressional approval. Also talking Michael Avenatti, Jussie Smollett, Puerto Rico and Russia in Venezuela.
"Words count, and the words of leaders count very much, and this man has become the leader, the representation, of white supremacy."A mass shooting at a New Zealand mosque has left 50 dead and reignited debate globally around Islamophobia and race-baiting language used by many politicians, especially Donald Trump. The shooting also came just days after Trump had hinted at the possibility of using violence involving the military, police and bikers against political opponents, and he's spent the rest of the week alternating between denials and flights of Twitter rage. Also talking Midwestern flooding, Syria, 2020, and the Mueller report - where is it?
"Trump is kind of a game that's played itself out... no more anti-Trump stuff is going to help the Democrats."Trump's record-setting $4.75 Trillion budget calls for more military spending and massive cuts to social safety nets, but what's the point when none of it is going to happen? Nancy Pelosi has waved away the idea of impeaching Trump right now but her blithe dismissal is putting some in her party offside. Also talking Paul Manafort, Dreamers back in the spotlight, and Deal or No Deal Brexit.
"Trump's belligerence is hurting the whole world, and he's too distracted now to do anything."Trump's failure at his recent summit with Kim Jong-un will have bigger consequences going forward, and the president is too distracted and crippled by investigations to do anything about it. China and the US could be on the verge of reaching an agreement on trade but neither is negotiating from a place of strength, and despite 'America First' policies the trade deficit is bigger than ever. Also talking budget blowout, border crossings, and a closer look at the women of Congress for International Women's Day.
"This testimony was a lot better than anything we've had before, and I think it will stick with voters much better."Michael Cohen has testified to the House Oversight Committee that Trump is a conman, a cheat, a racist, and lied about business dealings with Moscow during the 2016 campaign, but was there anything we didn't know? While bombs were flying in Washington DC, there seemed to be a lot less action in Vietnam with talks between Trump and Kim Jong-un. Also talking sexual assault allegations against Trump, Venezuela, the Medicare fight for 2020, and dangerous tensions between India and Pakistan.
"That is the most remarkably unintelligent thing I've ever heard."Sixteen states are suing Trump over a national emergency that even he admits in his public statements isn't needed for anything but convenience, so what's the point? The Mueller investigation is set to release as early as next week. Also talking Andrew McCabe, Roger Stone, North Korea and are we set to Feel the Bern in 2020?
"Trump knows he can't win a face down fight with Pelosi, and he can't even win in his own party."Trump seems amenable to border control negotiations this week as another shutdown looms, should we keep our eyes open for last minute bomb-throwing? Mitch McConnell wants to force a vote on the Green New Deal currently spearheaded by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and although Democrats are having to be careful around the talks it could end up backfiring on him as well. Also talking Saudi Arabia, Americans losing out at tax time, and one year after the Parkland shooting.
"Two things though were pretty clear, he wants The Wall, and he wants to stop the investigations."Calls for bipartisanship in the 2019 State of the Union might have been welcomed, but it's the messenger not the message that's raising eyebrows. Pitches for The Wall in particular look likely to drag on into endless partisan warfare as Trump issued more threats but no plans or incentives. Also talking HIV prevention, Syria, more legal woes, and Virginia Democrats.
"Those people are going to be mad for a long time, and I think that's what swayed Trump."After 35 days the second major shutdown of Trump's government ended with no concessions for The Wall, yet the fight isn't finished for either side. Former Trump adviser Roger Stone features a list of charges related to his time with the campaign, but is Mueller just using him to send a message to the top? Also, Venezuela, Trump's refusal to listen to intelligence chiefs, and presidential aspirants pouring out of the woodwork.
"If the Democrats had caved, and [Trump] went back on his word, what could they do?"Donald Trump seems at a loss on how to handle Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as the US shutdown stalemate drags on. The Mueller team has stepped in over a Buzzfeed article claiming Michael Cohen was directed to lie to Congress by Donald Trump, but are they really clearing the record, or firing a shot across the bow? Also talking economic hardships, Brexit spillover, and Martin Luther King Jr Day, his legacy in the age of Trump.
"Trump still doesn't care, because from his point-of-view his voters will stick with him no matter what."The US government shutdown has now gone on for 26 days and seems no closer to a resolution than it did on day one. Trump may want his Wall, but given last week the first solid evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia was largely ignored in favor of shutdown updates, is the president stretching it out as a distraction as well? Also talking the Syria bombing, Steve King, and Brexit.
"What does he want? He just wants five billion dollars and an erector set so he can play games?"Trump's promised shutdown seems no closer to being resolved, as the president addresses the nation with fear and storms out of negotiations with Democrat leaders. Is America on the verge of a likely illegal declaration of national crisis? Can Democrats keep their hands clean, and keep following through on their refusals to fund The Wall?
"[Trump] thinks... I don't have any support anywhere but my base. My base wants this, if I don't deliver this then I have no support anywhere at all.As Trump's third government shutdown drags toward the two week mark, unfortunately for him it has done nothing to delay Democrats as they take over the House of Reps. If he couldn't pass his agenda when Republicans controlled both houses of government, what hope is there now? Also talking the chances of impeachment, Elizabeth Warren, Mitt Romney, and Ed lays out a three-point plan for the Democrats in 2019.
"If the United States cannot be the moral leader, then the United States has no role in the world."Jim Mattis' resignation and a government shutdown meant the final week of 2018 was anything but uneventful. Ed and Sean look back on the week, and the year, that was in an America-sized edition before the clock hits midnight on what may be the most chaotic year ever in modern US politics. Talking White House resignations and reshuffles, The Wall, Midterms, #MeToo, California fires, Jamal Khashoggi, Trump adventures abroad and much, much more.
"This is a favor for the Russians, a big gift to the Russians."Declaring over Twitter that ISIS has been defeated in the region, President Trump is pulling US troops out of Syria but not without resistance from within his administration. Meanwhile, Michael Cohen keeps on giving, Michael Flynn's sentencing delayed, and the Trump Foundation facing dissolution due to persistent illegal activity. Also talking Mick Mulvaney, government shutdown, and gun deaths at their highest levels in fifty years.If you'd like to listen to the Guns Specials mentioned in this week's podcasts, you can find them here: US of Ed on Guns in America: Part OneAnd here: US of Ed on Guns in America: Part Two
"Individual #1 is now a federal criminal."Whether or not events were meant to serve as a distraction is a matter for debate, but there can be no doubting this was another horror week for Trump. The Michael Cohen sentencing directly implicates Individual #1, aka President Donald Trump, in federal crimes. Trump's on-camera tantrum could lead to another government shutdown, and John Kelly's resignation leaves a gaping hole in the White House that none of those fabled best people seem willing to fill. Also, Tillerson, Attorney General pick William Barr, Russian spy Maria Butina, and Mueller.
"There'll be some jail time for Trump the way this is going, if I were him I'd be afraid both to be president and not to be president."George Bush Snr's passing this week in a piece of sad irony underlining a G20 conference where America seems more disconnected from the rest of the world and globalism is losing strength. At home, Trump's financial ties to Saudi Arabia and Russia, and presidential profiteering, under increased scrutiny as Mueller's conclusions get closer and closer. Also talking Wisconsin, Roger Stone, and tariffs.
"It's a sad, sad commentary on America today that they're doing this."While scenes at the US-Mexico border might horrify, Trump's treatment of refugees has been rooted in promises made since the beginning of his campaign. Less encouraging for his base, the General Motors job losses can be traced directly back to Trump's steel and aluminium tariffs and make for one big broken promise. Also talking G20 meetings, Congress losing patience with Russia and Saudi Arabia, Nancy Pelosi, and Paul Manafort and Michael Cohen wheeling as the Mueller investigation comes to a close.
"The United States has fallen so much in global prestige, and this is another nail in that coffin."As America sits down to turkey dinner, California is reeling from the deadliest fires in the state's history and a lack of reaction to the Jamal Khashoggi killing sends a clear and bloody message. Meanwhile, Trump ramps up rhetoric on the Mexican border and on the judiciary. Also, Ivanka's email a free kick for Dems, White House press rules, and the Blue Wave still washing up some seats.
"This small trickle turned into a wave, and then turned into a tornado, and now it's a tsunami."Battered by midterm results and surprised by criticisms over his actions in France, Trump is taking out his anger at anything he can get his hands on. White House Chief of Staff John Kelly and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen appear next in the firing line. Also talking California fires, North Korea, the mystery of the migrant caravan suddenly disappearing from media coverage, and ongoing midterm results.
"It wasn't a tsunami, it was the kind of wave you'd like at the beach, but it wasn't the big Waikiki wave."With Democrats now in control of the House, but going backwards in the Senate, what next for the Trump agenda and for Democratic opposition? Jeff Sessions has also been ousted while the voting booths were still warm, what next for the Attorney General position and the Mueller investigation? Also looking to 2020 with Trump likely to stay in as the Republican candidate and new stars of the Democratic party.
"The question is, is this a wave, a tsunami, or just a little trickle?"In this pre-Midterms special, we talk the anticipated turnout for the 2018 vote and races to watch for the House, Senate and for Governor elections. Have Democrats counted their chickens before they hatch? Will illegal immigration prove the vote-winner Republicans are hoping for? And can Trump wash his hands of all responsibility as he seems to be attempting?
"The good guys carried guns and the bad guys carried guns, and the good guys always won, but it was a hell of a carnage."In part two of US of Ed's special on guns and gun culture in America, Ed and Sean look at Sandy Hook, whether there is too much focus on mass shootings in discussions around gun control and the role the National Rifle Association plays in lobbying against change. Plus, why doesn't suicide by firearm ever seem to be mentioned in these debates despite it being by far the most popular method used by Americans in ending their lives?You can find Part One of this two-part special here.
"Many of these people, who have been doing [mass shootings], have been abandoned in one way or another."America's obsession with firearms is one that often confuses other countries, particularly in the wake of so many high profile and devastating mass shooting events. In part one of US of Ed's two-part special on guns and gun culture, Ed and Sean discuss why firearms seem to some people to be an essential part of being an American, why mass shootings seem to be on the rise in America, and whether a bipartisan solution to gun violence might be impossible to find by this point.
"The Turks have them cold, they're now trying to figure out a way out of this mess."The alleged murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside a Saudi consulate has left close ally the United States scrambling for a response, especially given Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner's close ties with the Saudi royal family. Jim 'Mad Dog' Mattis has gotten Donald Trump's reassurance his head won't be next on the chopping block, but why was it needed? Also talking deficit blowout, Hurricane Michael, voting rights, and Elizabeth Warren's family ties.
"He certainly owes Trump, and if something comes up on Trump either he'll recuse himself or he may take a very conservative position. I don't think he wants to tarnish his reputation any further."Brett Kavanaugh is the latest addition to the Supreme Court but the controversy and allegations surrounding him are being used to inflame voters on both sides. Nikki Haley's resignation from her UN ambassador post caught Washington by surprise this week but how shocked should we really be? Also talking Trump family tax avoidance, Hurricane Michael, Beto O'Rourke and Midterms.
"He will be the most maligned Justice ever on the Supreme Court."A quickie FBI investigation has found no corroboration for sexual misconduct allegations levelled at Brett Kavanaugh making a successful nomination seem all but certain, but just how unwelcome will his seat on the Supreme Court be? And what does it mean for the future of movements like #MeToo? Also, Trump's love affair with Kim Jong-un, the USMCA, and Obama weighs in on midterms.
"At least one member, perhaps two members of the committee will hold out for an FBI investigation before they proceed with the vote."When we spoke last, the Senate hearing was still to hear from Christine Blasey Ford and from Brett Kavanaugh himself regarding allegations of sexual assault. Now that the hearing has gone ahead, Ed shares some thoughts as well as a reflection on what the postponement of a meeting Rod Rosenstein was set to have with Donald Trump means for the future of the Deputy Attorney General.To listen to this week's full episode, you can find it here.
"They know the emperor has no clothes."Donald Trump got a reaction from the United Nations but seemingly not the one he was hoping for, but flipping the script on Iran and threatening foreign aid may have some less amusing consequences. Meanwhile at home, rumors swirl around Rod Rosenstein and allegations pile on Brett Kavanaugh, how long can either man hold on? Also talking the possibility of Chinese election interference, South Carolina flooding, and US deficit to hit nearly $1 Trillion.For a quick update on the situation following the Kavanaugh Hearing and on Rod Rosenstein, you can listen here.
"We now have a situation where the president is poison."The East Coast is drying out after Hurricane Florence passed through, but although preparations were good a death toll of 36 or 37 being reported at time of recording so what went wrong? Trump and Republicans still being assailed from all sides, however, with Paul Manafort volunteering his help to the Muller investigation and Brett Kavanaugh's sexual assault allegations. Also, latest on China, Senate spending bill and midterm predictions.
"What we have here is a situation where the states are very much left on their own."At time of recording, Hurricane Florence still lashing the East Coast. Given Donald Trump rates 3000 dead in Puerto Rico, a number he now denies, an unsung success, should North and South Carolinans be feeling nervous about the government's preparations? Also talking Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings, North Korea and the Asia region, and a so-called resistance inside the Trump White House.
"Right now it's this battle he had with Trump, rather than his larger-, things he contributed to the American people."As what seemed at times like the lone dissenting voice in what the Republican party has become under Trump, how will John McCain be best remembered? Also looking at threats against the World Trade Organization, North Korea, Cohen fallout, and Donald Trump can no longer Google himself in peace. Meanwhile, what does the Democrats changes for superdelegates mean for a rising youth movement within the party?
"He doesn't listen to his lawyers, at all, and that's going to be his downfall."A horror week for the White House as Paul Manafort found guilty on eight counts and former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen pleading guilty to other charges, with Cohen's lawyer saying he is willing to speak about any and all things Donald Trump to the Mueller investigation. Trump's 'witch hunt' reaction somewhat stymied by a surprise push-back from Jeff Sessions, reasserting the independence of the Justice Department. Also, in policy news, a slowdown for carbon emission targets and immigrant army recruits.
"Donald Trump is on a long holiday inside the White House... the government is on autopilot."John Brennan's security clearance, a snub for John McCain, and Trump at war with a former Apprentice star, a perfect storm of smallness and petty behavior from the Commander-in-Chief this week. Meanwhile, Turkey's tumble raises nuclear concerns and a surprising lesson from the Chinese economy. Also talking Unite the Right flop, midterm nominations, and a new report makes The Wall look like even more of a distant dream.
"The problem I see right now is that the Democrats might become exhausted, just by trying to counter all the craziness of Trump."Ohio's special election at the time of recording still too close to call but even if Republicans come away with a razor thin majority, are Democrats the real winners? California facing its largest ever wildfires, what are the causes behind this inferno that might have been overlooked? Also, Trump tweets portents of war at Iran, allies and LeBron James, and the Manafort trial continues with Rick Gates as star witness.
"It's the president's attitude, the law is for lesser people, income taxes are for lesser people. He runs the government, it is his wall, and on and on and on."Another chaotic week at the Trump White House as the president seems to be struggling under the strain of the ongoing Mueller investigation. Trump is also threatening a government shutdown if he doesn't get his way, and playing out the same routine with Iran that he did for North Korea to less apparent success. Also talking tax cuts, Jeff Sessions' 'Religious Liberty Task Force' and the opening days of the Manafort trial.
"Now it's Iran, before it was North Korea. These are all-, a person who has a very short attention span and has a great need for enthusiastic applause behind him no matter what the cost."Somehow, impossibly, Donald Trump's scandals continue to stack up this far into his presidency, with Russia and the NRA, hush money for affairs, and surreal totalitarian comments making headlines this week. Not even an all-caps near-declaration of war with Iran could distract from the circus. Attempting to wrap our heads around it along with talk on Rod Rosenstein, $12 billion in aid for farmers, and Trump finally concerned by Russia election interference... on behalf of Democrats.
"You, Russia, bring peace in Syria, and we let you have the Ukraine. That's the deal that's on the table."Fallout from Trump's tricky turns of phrase following his meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin. Are we missing the bigger picture of Trump's business dealings with Russia? And what ominous 'verbal agreements' did the president make that Russians now want to hold the Americans to? Also talking Puerto Rico, Obama stepping up to the plate for Democrats, and the latest in the Russia and Manafort investigations.
"Mr Trump won, this tough talk got tough action."Donald Trump caught other NATO members by surprise this week but is there a method to the madness? He's also travelling through the UK and set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin next week. Meanwhile, is Brett Kavanaugh's nomination the best deal the Democrats can get, and they should take it while they can? Also talking China tariffs, another swing at Obamacare, a rise in hate crimes, and a bizarre American aversion to breastfeeding.
"This would be the most outrageous, and perhaps the most dangerous thing that Trump could do."Scandal-ridden EPA Head Scott Pruitt is the latest Trump appointee to resign, a reflection of the eat or be eaten inner nature of the current government that does not seem likely to improve. Meanwhile, a proposal to pull the US out of the World Trade Organization threatens global markets and markets within the US that are already left wanting. Also talking Mexico's new president, Obamacare keeps on keeping on, Russian interference and the fallout from the Capital Gazette shooting.
"Truth of the matter is this is a violation of the Constitution... The President cannot receive any emoluments, which is a big word, while he is in office."
Victory in the Supreme Court for Trump and news the Justice Anthony Kennedy will be retiring means Republicans get another pick on the bench. Meanwhile, news that 38 Trump trademarks have been approved in China and that The Trump Organization refuses to share how much its receiving in foreign revenue with Congress means American interests could be for sale at bargain prices. Also talking family separations, Russia, North Korea, some roundly criticised remarks from Maxine Waters, and a potential Trump visit to Australia.
"The US might well be accused of a crime against humanity."
Far from a shining city upon a hill, the United States has been seen this week as home to acts of needless cruelty thanks to the Trump administration's asylum seeker policies. President Trump has denied responsibility and furthermore pulled the US out of the UN Human Rights Council in a troubling move for human rights abuses around the globe. Also talking trade war with China, Paul Manafort's prison blues and the latest in the Mueller investigation.
"Something can start from there, where there was nothing before."
Donald Trump has brought his special brand of negotiation to the summit with Kim Jong-un and come away with a win despite a concession on US / South Korea war games. What worked, and what would Barack Obama or other predecessors have done differently? His diplomacy was less stellar at the G7 summit in Canada and immediately after, mindlessly attacking allies and pulling for Russia. Also talking Ohio's voter purge, the GOP's split on immigration, and a case study for moderate Republicans in Mark Sanford.
"It looks like the good guys won this one, and will have a good chance in the regular election." This week's primaries were the biggest bunch of elections we'll see until November, so what should we take away from the results? Former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort is headed to prison on witness tampering charges relating back to the Mueller investigation. What might he go to save his own skin. Also talking North Korea, tough tariffs on American allies, and Donald Trump's bizarre and petty snub to Superbowl winners the Philadelphia Eagles.
"This is an example of the two faces of America right now."
A punch-drunk GOP, weary from internal division and Trump scandals, faces off against a chipper but at times just as divided, and plausibly overconfident Democratic party as the 2018 congressional races begin. Ed talks potential pitfalls for both parties as well as 1,475 missing migrant kids and Trump's refusals to take responsibility. Also, North Korea, Puerto Rico, and the latest bizarre developments between the White House and the Russia investigation.
"The North Koreans need a deal, and if they don't get a deal with the United States they'll get a deal with China that would blow the United States out of the water, so this is a very difficult game to play."The space on Trump's mantel reserved for a Nobel Peace Prize may remain bare for some time yet, with the administration pulling out of talks with North Korea following aggressive rhetoric from the hermit nation. China may be able to help with the US/China trade war in ceasefire, but what will be their ultimate price? Also talking Iran, Michael Cohen's pay-for-play with the Trump presidency, the Santa Fe shooting, and will Stormy Daniels and Michael Avenatti take down Trump before Robert Mueller?
"It's really a senseless act that's harmed a lot of people, and done no political good for the United States or the world."Bloodshed in Gaza over the new US embassy in Jerusalem, but nothing but congratulations and some eyebrow-raising claims of Israeli restraint from Trump and his administration. Meanwhile, North Korea backs off from talks and a Chinese trade delegation arrives in Washington but offers little room for negotiation. Also talking Gina Haspel, more women than ever getting involved in US politics, and charges likely for Michael Cohen.
"If you're going to say I'm against things that Obama did, what are you doing? The only thing [Trump has] done is the tax bill, all the government agencies are in shambles, it looks like most of the candidates are in shambles, so what has he done?"In spite of the pleading of allies and no evidence that Iran hadn't held up their end, US President Donald Trump has scrapped the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. It's a move that undercuts American bargaining power especially in the upcoming North Korea denuclearisation talks, so why do it? The spectre of nukes in the Middle East hasn't been enough to totally distract from new revelations in the Stormy Daniels saga, however, with confirmed reports Trump lawyer Michael Cohen took $500,000 from a Russian billionaire with ties to Putin. And against advice, the Trump administration is moving to expel 300,000 legal migrants from US soil in a such a way that could increase unrest and illegal immigration.
"The Russians were looking for somebody to deal with, they started messing around with these guys. There's no collusion there because they were so stupid the Russians couldn't deal with them."Good news out of the Korean Peninsula, although how far can anyone trust Kim Jong-un? South Korean President Moon Jae-in thinks Donald Trump deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the result but back at home the news is nowhere near as positive for the American president. Trump is short on options for the Iran deal, rambling and raving on Fox and Friends, and beset by Robert Mueller's investigation. Is the cover-up worse than the crime on Russian collusion? And could it see the President's eldest son trading Armani for a bright orange jumpsuit?
"The relationship is stable, Australia and the United States have a lot to gain together, the ambassador is symbolic but not that important."Donald Trump hosted his first state visitor French President Emmanuel Macron this week and things were chummy except on the topic of the Iran Deal, and it could have far-reaching implications including for North Korea. Australia has been left feeling rejected after the man tipped to become US ambassador is headed for South Korea instead, so what does it mean for the two countries relations? Ed joins us from Chicago to talk these topics as well as the Waffle House shooting in Nashville, South China Sea, evangelicals plans for the 2018 midterms and the latest insult for the EPA.
"I want to think positively about this, that Pompeo actually is paving the way for something that will look like an agreement, that the Chinese would support."
Having backed a loser in Assad, Russia wants out but how to leave gracefully? Talking military strikes in Syria and Mike Pompeo in North Korea, as well as the passing of Barbara Bush, First Lady to one president and mother of another. Also, Charlie Dent, the latest in the fallout from the Michael Cohen raid, and are Democrats too focused on the possibility of impeaching Trump?
"The Russians have something on Trump. Trump knows the game is almost up and they'll probably release it so he has less and less reason to do anything for the Russians. And the Russians have less and less reason to do anything for him."
Speaker of the House Paul Ryan has announced he will joins nearly thirty (so far) House Republicans that will decline to seek re-election in the 2018 midterms, what's the big picture for Republicans. Meanwhile, after more than a year of refusing to criticise Vladimir Putin or Russia, Trump has gone from zero to sixty on sabre-rattling in Syria. Also talking the Trade Pacific Partnership, trade with China, tax and the FBI raid on Trump lawyer Michael Cohen.
"I first met Martin Luther King when he was preaching in Los Angeles, raising money for the movement..."In honor of the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr's assassination, Ed talks about his own meetings with MLK and his recollections of the 'Bloody Sunday' Selma march, as well as the fragmentation of black America and MLK's legacy. In part two of the special, Ed and Sean discuss all the issues facing black America today including police brutality and rates of incarceration, family, unemployment, as well as black America's voting rights and role in the democratic process.
"Easter's coming up, people have risen from the dead, [Trump] may as well." Is it really time to panic? The appointment of Fox News firebrand John Bolton to the position of Trump's National Security Advisor has some people doing just that. We look at the latest addition to Team Trump, as well as the Stormy Daniels interview, Russia, and the record-breaking March for Our Lives in Washington DC. Speaking of broken records, Republicans are leaving the House of Reps in 2018 in larger numbers than ever before. And Ed shares his thoughts on a study saying only one-third of African-Americans, nationwide, have confidence in the police.
"Trump can't win this, he really can't win, he's just looking for time."Another week, another high profile firing. Does Trump giving the boot to Acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe constitute obstruction of Justice? And if so, where is the Republican Party? Also talking Cambridge Analytica, election results in Russia, death for drug dealers, and what exactly Stormy Daniels is angling to get out of the Trump affair allegations...
"[The White House] is the worst place on the planet to work, you don't know who's going to get you. Will it be Trump? Will it be Kelly? Will it be somebody else? You just can't tell, so who's next?"
Rex Tillerson is the latest high profile figure ousted from the Trump administration, fired via tweet. As the White House becomes even more dog-eat-dog, who will be next? Also speaking about plans for talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and fallout from the poisoning attack on a British-Russian double agent and his daughter. Could there be some blowback felt by Trump as well?
"We have a situation now where the White House is a joke, the President is a joke... So why stay there?"Trump's tariffs have Republicans in a bind, whether to support the president in his latest stab at foreign and economic policy or to stay true to their party's policies. In related news, White House chief economic advisor Gary Cohn has stepped down but is it less about tariff and more about abandoning a sinking ship? Also, Sam Nunberg, Russian threats on nukes, the Mueller investigation, and how Democrats can get out of their own way in the 2018 mid-terms.
"They're coming out [at Trump] from every direction and stinging him every way they can."There's no more Hope for Trump, Hope Hicks at least, with the White House Communications Director and long-time Trump aide on her way out following testimony before the congressional Russia probe. Also, the latest on gun control, the opioid crisis, immigrants to be held without bond hearings and the EPA. And Aussie PM Malcolm Turnbull and Trump have celebrated a hundred years of "mateship" between the United States and Australia, but what's going on behind the photo op smiles and handshakes?
"This reminds me of the Vietnam movement when I was a youngster, where young people say 'we cannot trust the adults, we're going to take this on ourselves'." Thirteen Russians indicted in the Mueller investigation, will it be an unlucky number for Trump? Florida students are declaring enough is enough when it comes to gun control after yet another deadly mass shooting, is this the beginning of a much bigger movement? And the latest on immigration, a reflection on Billy Graham and looking at the latest special election results, are hopes for a "blue tsunami" in 2018 based in fact or fantasy?
"The more these things stack up the more Republicans, as a party, have to get behind [Trump], and the more they get behind him the more votes they lose in 2018." The shortest ever US government shutdown, only six hours, took place this week but does it say some big things about Republicans' fiscal responsibilities? Besides debt, another thing Trump and Republicans don't seem concerned about is Russian interference. Looking at these, as well as the Stormy Daniels alleged affair, Florida shooting, the return of Barack Obama, and the run-up to the 2018 mid-terms.
"Trump is no longer president of the United States, the United States is being run by a troika which includes the Secretary of State, the Vice President, and the Secretary of Defence, they're running the country."The Nunes memo that promised to take Washington by storm turned out to be more of a light drizzle yet President Donald Trump claims it vindicates him totally in the Russia investigation. Other Republicans have not been so effusive, so what about the contents of the memo itself and what will the FBI response be? Meanwhile, the stock market takes a plunge, talks of another shutdown, and Trump wants a parade to show off American military might but conjures some unfortunate implications.
"It was the first presidential speech we've heard."Donald Trump has given his State of the Union address this week, sounding a great deal more presidential than the content of his Twitter account. When it comes to substance, Ed and Sean pick through key claims on taxes, immigration, environmental protections and a boost to the US military, including Guantanamo Bay. Not mentioned in the speech, Russia sanctions, the continuing rise of China and FEMA to quit sending food and water supplies to Puerto Rico.
"The long game is this, November 2018, the Republicans want a program they can put before the people, they're stumbling... The Democrats on the other hand better come up with something, because if DACA goes through what else do they have to offer?"
As promised last week, Democrats allowed the American government to go into shutdown but has much been accomplished? The Russia probe and Mueller investigation continues but the Republican party seems more concerned with protecting their president than uncovering the truth. Also, Jared Kushner's security concerns, Trump goes after Palestine and the rest of the world continues to think less and less of the Trump agenda.
"We are now seeing the unravelling of the America epoch, where the United States won by force of ideals, and replaced by this kind of repugnant, awful, racist leadership that has corroded the American politic."Another week, another controversy from the Trump White House, but if Trump's base and the rest of the Republican party don't care, should any of us anymore? Plus, the surprising upside of the Hawaiian false missile alert crisis, Steve Bannon subpoenaed by Robert Mueller, and the fate of the 800,000 Dreamers and a government shutdown hanging in the balance.
"Like Nixon, [Trump will] do everything he can do, constitutionally, to prevent this from happening."
A new book has taken Washington DC by storm, reigniting the debate of just how fit Trump is for the office of Commander-in-Chief but is there really anything to it that people haven't already been saying since before the 2016 election? Meanwhile, Trump's warnings to North Korea about his bigger, redder and fully functional nuclear button have had a surprising result. Also, not quite the end for 'Sloppy' Steve Bannon, the Russia investigation in 2018 and the shadow of a governmental shutdown next week.
"These people are going to be out, they are spirited... These are now moral votes, and American might find its morality but it seems to be losing its way."2017 has been massive in the United States and for the final podcast of the year, Ed and Sean try to unpack as much of it as possible. From Trump's inauguration size and early stumbles on Obamacare and travel bans, the start of the Russia investigation, the devastation of Hurricanes Harvey and Maria, the US' deadliest ever mass-shooting in Las Vegas and the #MeToo movement. And who will be U.S. of Ed's Person of the Year for 2017, one who had one of the biggest impacts on the American news cycle? (The answer isn't as obvious as you'd think.)
"The Republicans now are in a very difficult predicament... the notion that Breitbart and the racists have taken over their party is more than they can stomach."Sweet home Alabama, where the Senate race has turned blue. Democrat Doug Jones has come away with a historic win but given the margin was so tight and Roy Moore was so personally unpalatable, how serious are the implications for Republicans and Trump? Also, Republicans are getting close to getting some pretty massive corporate tax cuts through, the NYC terror attack and latest on the Mueller investigation.
"We have a situation here where the president himself is admitting to obstruction of justice by not telling the truth about what went on and knowing [Michael Flynn] was lying."Robert Mueller is circling with questions about what the president knew and when he knew it in regards to Michael Flynn. Congress also may have grounds to go after Donald Trump Jr for collusion with Russia. But while Trump draws the spotlight, Republicans seem happy to let it go on as they push through an incredibly unpopular tax bill. And is the moving the US embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem just another attempt at distraction?
"This is a man who might go too far... All bets are off."North Korea has tested a new missile which, according to experts and not just Kim Jong-un, could conceivably land a strike all the way into Washington DC. Far from providing a steady handle at the tiller, however, Donald Trump has been acting more unstable than ever, lying at almost a pathological level, firing off anti-Muslim retweets and clinging to bizarre conspiracy theories both new and old. What does America do if it truly has a madman-in-chief?
"Sooner or later, several of them are going to squeal and it looks like [Michael] Flynn will, and [Mueller will] roll them all up at once. It's not going to be pretty."Republican Senate candidate in Alabama Roy Moore can be thankful for Trump's support in spite of mounting sexual allegations, but other Republicans aren't so sure. America's middle class can be thankful the GOP's tax plan is looking unlikely to pass. And while many thought it was possible Robert Mueller might have Donald Trump served up like a turkey by Thanksgiving, it's not necessarily good news for Trump and those surrounding him with rumours Mueller has a "classic Gambino-style roll-up" in the works to capture all the key players in one fell swoop.
"I think voting 'No' against things for Trump is becoming popular in the Senate, I'm not saying they won't get a tax bill it just won't be this one."President Donald Trump has just wrapped up his extensive tour of Asia with promises of great deals and a death threat from North Korea, so what's really in it for the US? On the domestic front, Republican Senator Ron Johnson has said he won't vote for the GOP's tax plan in it's current form so will we see another protracted battle like the promised repeal of Obamacare? Also, Roy Moore, ageing Zimbabwe dictator Robert Mugabe and the latest on the Russia investigation.
"I think his presidency is over, the question is how much longer he hangs on."Looking at Trump trials and travels in Asia and the 2017 election results, particularly in Virginia. A boon for Democrats but is the "backlash against Trump" being over-hyped? And can Democrats position themselves as more than just the anti-Trump party by the 2018 midterm elections? Meanwhile, Michael Flynn and son are in the sights of the Mueller investigation and some thoughts a year on from Trump's surprise election victory.
"They're going after the little fish, and setting the plate, so they can go after the big fish by saying - here is the evidence against you, what do you have to say?"Former Trump advisors Paul Manafort, Richard Gates and George Papadopoulos have been indicted on charges ranging from money laundering to the dire-sounding "conspiracy against the United States". What is Mueller's strategy and who is likely to be next? Also, the New York terror attack and how Trump's response might have made it more difficult to prosecute.
"You haven't heard anyone in the Republican Party criticising [Bob Corker and Jeff Flake]... They're the people who are saying what other people think."Trump seems to be struggling to find friends, engaging in a running battle of he-said-she-said with Gold Star widow Myeshia Johnson and critics within his party speaking out virtually unopposed. Meanwhile, in spite of the mountain of evidence that Russia interfered with the 2016 election, Russia is reportedly unhappy with the USA as relations reach a low ebb. Also, the Clinton camp's involvement with the Steele Dossier and will Robert Mueller have Donald Trump served up like a turkey before Thanksgiving dinner?
"He has lost the plot entirely, he's only there trying to save his own skin, he is not leading the nation."
Donald Trump has been criticised for a slow and indifferent response to the death of four US soldiers in Niger as well as attempting to paint former Presidents Obama and Bush as doing less regarding fallen soldiers, launching yet another war of words with a Gold Star family and the former administrations. George W. Bush has even broken with the tradition of former presidents to criticise Trump in all but name, and Trump seems to be becoming more isolated and unhinged. Plus, Puerto Rico, the latest on Mueller and the Russian probe and after a massive failure on healthcare, what next for the Republicans' tax agenda?
"To save his own skin, to get this Russian thing behind him, he will attack North Korea... No one will have anyone to turn to but him in a situation like that, and he's willing to do that to save himself."
More of nature's wrath in California and New Orleans, what has the government response looked like? Meanwhile, outgoing Republican Senator for Tennessee Bob Corker has expressed concerns Trump is leading us into World War III and Trump has reportedly asked about the possibility of America's nuclear arsenal tenfold, back to its Cold War peak. Also, the latest on Puerto Rico, ties with Israel and the Russia investigation.
"He's not the President of the United States, he's the President of about 30% of the United States, and that's all he wants to be..."
This week, Ed has a few harsh words for President Trump in the wake of the horrific Las Vegas massacre and multiple failures in Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, what's the Republicans' next move on healthcare following their inability to pass a vote to repeal and replace Obamacare? The latest on the Mueller investigation and what the expulsion of Cuban diplomats from the US means for relations between the two nations.
"What the guys are saying is, we really love the United States and this is one way of showing it. There are problems of race and we're trying to bring them to your attention with what we have, and that's our name and our ability."
Trump's attacks on former 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick and other protesting NFL players, a far-cry from the kind of hedged language used against Nazis and white supremacists in Charlottesville, seem to have backfired with more sport stars taking up the challenge. Off the field, Republicans' "last-ditch" efforts on repealing Obamacare have also failed and tax reform could leave an even bigger hole in the deficit. And was Senator Luther Strange's loss in Alabama a victory in disguise for Trump?
"Impeaching him might be easy, removing him from office might be very, very hard.."
President Donald Trump has threatened to "totally destroy" North Korea if Kim Jong-un doesn't back down from his latest threats, making the leaders of the two nations harder and harder to tell apart. So will we see any peaceful resolution to the situation? Plus Puerto Rico as the 51st State, Mueller smells blood in the water around Paul Manafort and Republicans' 'last-ditch' effort on an Obamacare repeal.
"[Trump] has really lost the Republicans, and he has nothing to gain from trying to get them back... but with the Democrats, if he can bring them onside on a few key issues... he might save his presidency for this four years, because they'll stop pursuing him."
As recovery begins following Hurricane Irma, Ed talks about the fallout both physical and political. But, is Trump showing some of those fabled deal-making skills in reaching across the aisle to Democrats on the DACA Dreamers? And what does that mean for his relationship with his own party? Plus, back-downs on both the travel ban and transgender military ban, while China could be poised to take the North Korea situation out of American hands.
"They'd be a boon, actually, to Mexico, to have these well-educated people come back... And Canada will receive these people with open arms. This is another one of these deals where Donald Trump thinks he's winning his base but he's losing everyone else."
While America was still getting its head around the ravages of flooding in Houston, another massive storm got ready to batter Florida. How is the government responding? And Donald Trump continues to kick up a storm on both sides of the aisle, ordering the dismantling of Barack Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, and yet siding with Democrats on raising the debt ceiling, a policy Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan had called "ridiculous" barely an hour before the announcement.
"This is a slap in the face to the justice system... practically anyone of any conscience has backed away."Hurricane Harvey has devastated parts of Houston, Texas. As former Executive Director of Recovery Management for the City of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, Ed gives some insight into what the road to recovery will look like for Houston. Meanwhile, Hurricane Trump continues to rage in Washington DC with a pardon for controversial Arizona ex-sheriff Joe Arpaio and Robert Mueller making more in-roads in the Russia investigation, meaning there won't be any pardons for Trump associates caught conspiring in the 2016 election.
"The best strategy sometimes is to lose gracefully, and maybe this is the exit route."Trump has come out with a new strategy in Afghanistan promising less "nation-building" and more "killing terrorists", so what do we know so far? Meanwhile, following his resignation, Trump adviser Steve Bannon has declared the Trump presidency over and Trump has launched a war of words with House Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Can Trump afford to lose both the support of his base and the Republican party?
"People need to feel they're working towards an agenda of unity, the agenda that Abraham Lincoln talked about... When you can't believe that anymore the fabric of the nation starts coming apart."
Following Charlottesville, America seems in crisis about what kind of country it wants to be and how to get there, and the White House does not appear to be helping steer the ship. Meanwhile, Trump has made some unexpected comments about military intervention in Venezuela, unsupported by the US Department of Defense. In his growing need for distraction, is the president developing a taste for war?
"We'd have to have supreme intelligence to knock down every one of those rockets."An escalation in the war of words between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un have some questioning whether the United States is on the brink of nuclear war. How likely is that to be the case? Plus, the New York Times believes we could be seeing a Pence 2020 presidential campaign and former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort has had his home searched by the Mueller investigation, on the hunt for tax documents and foreign banking records.
"It appears that Donald Trump Jr and Jared Kushner have been involved in laundering money, taking bribes or giving bribes, and avoiding in several countries and stashing money around the world... Mueller is using the threat of sending those people to prison for a long time."
The Mooch is out and John Kelly is in, but is there any end in sight for chaos in the White House? More leaks to the Washington Post of Donald Trump's conversations with other world leaders says no. Meanwhile, with a federal grand jury becoming a part of the investigation is Robert Mueller following the money surrounding the Trump family and likely indite the President himself and his associates on RICO charges?
Have you ever thought about this? All during the American financial crisis, the Trump empire kept tooling along. Now, where's the money coming from? It wasn't coming from US banks, it wasn't coming from banks that we know about, but it looks pretty clear it came from Russian banks..
Ed and Sean talk the Trump agenda, where has it gone amidst turmoil over healthcare and the failed attempts at a travel ban? Also, Donald Trump Jr and Paul Manafort to testify before a Senate judiciary committee on July 26th, and unfortunate news for presidential nominee John McCain.
Ed and Sean on the latest from a besieged Trump White House. Accusations of collusion between Donald Trump Jr. and other members of the Trump campaign, Republicans and the new FBI head distancing themselves from President Trump, and is Russia taking advantage of their supposed hold over President Trump?