John Fasman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, discusses Joe Biden's centrist appeal during a time of division in America. He highlights Biden's balancing act between progressive and moderate ideologies while aiming for national healing. Sophie Pett, Paris bureau chief, analyzes Emmanuel Macron's surprising appointment of Jean Castex as Prime Minister and the implications for French politics. They also explore the rise of rap music in the Arab world, where artists address social injustices and challenge conservative norms through their lyrics.
The former vice-president has shifted leftward with his party, but it is his centrist tendencies that make him electable—and could permit him to effect radical change. Emmanuel Macron, France’s president, is reshuffling the government; why has he chosen a largely unknown mayor as the new prime minister? And the rhymes and reasons behind rap music’s surge in the Arab world. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer