Coffee House Shots Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 18/01/2026
Jan 18, 2026
Donald Trump stirs controversy with a tariff threat over Greenland, prompting backlash from UK ministers. Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick's switch to Reform sparks discussions about the party’s ambitions and polling strategies. Lisa Nandy defends local government reorganisation, aiming to simplify council responsibilities. An intriguing debate emerges on whether Trump is a modern-day king, alongside the US stance on Iranian protests and calls for UN reform amidst global challenges.
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Tariff Threats Over Greenland Escalate
- Donald Trump threatened NATO allies with tariffs over Greenland, framing it as a security issue tied to troop movements.
- The UK government called the tariff threat wrong and stressed Greenland's future is a matter for Greenland and Denmark alone.
Jenrick Joins Reform After Sacking
- Robert Jenrick defected to Reform after being preemptively sacked, presented as a high-profile recruit.
- Reform celebrated his ministerial experience as filling a previously missing strength in their ranks.
Reform Positions Itself As Main Opposition
- Richard Tice argued Jenrick gives Reform ministerial credibility and helps position Reform as the main opposition to Labour.
- Tice claimed Reform leads in many national polls and framed May elections as crucial, likening them to US midterms.