'Unfettered power': Former ambassador on rethinking the US-Australia alliance

When Arthur Sinodinos arrived in Washington as Australia’s ambassador to the United States in 2020, he was told the best way to get things done with Donald Trump was to go straight to the person in the White House handling the issue.

In many cases, that wasn’t a typical official – it was a business figure, a loyalist, or even a family member.

As Trump 2.0 takes shape, his administration is doubling down on an “America First” agenda, with key roles for long-time allies, Republican operatives and influential business figures. According to Sinodinos, Trump sees himself as having “unfettered power” to enact it.

Today, Arthur Sinodinos on negotiating with a Trump administration and Australia’s place in an “America First” world.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: Former ambassador to the United States Arthur Sinodinos.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.