James Politi, the Financial Times' Washington Bureau Chief, and Stefania Palma, its U.S. legal correspondent, dive into Donald Trump's return to the White House. They discuss his aggressive tactics aimed at reshaping the federal government and targeting critics. The conversation highlights the erosion of democratic norms and the potential chaos stemming from Trump’s unconventional management style. With a focus on loyalty over dissent, they explore how these actions may impact governance and the implications for America's political landscape.

James Politi, Washington Bureau Chief for the Financial Times, and Guy Chazan, U.S. politics and society correspondent, dive into the potential consequences of proposed Medicaid cuts amid budget negotiations. They discuss how these cuts could alienate MAGA supporters who rely on this essential service. With insights on the fracturing Republican unity, they highlight the looming showdown between fiscal conservatives and those advocating for social welfare. Personal stories from affected voters illustrate the real-world stakes of political decisions.

James Politi, Washington Bureau chief for the Financial Times, and Rana Foroohar, global business columnist, dissect the recent Republican victory in the elections and the significance of economic sentiment among voters. They analyze Trump's disruptive economic agenda and its potential implications, including tax cuts and rising inflation. The conversation touches on the Democrats' struggle to connect with working-class voters and the historical patterns of market reactions following electoral outcomes, hinting at economic challenges ahead.

James Politi, the Washington bureau chief at the Financial Times, shares insights into Kamala Harris's campaign, emphasizing her appeal to energized Democratic voters. He discusses Tim Walz's unexpected rise as her vice-presidential pick and how his relatable persona may connect with moderate, working-class individuals in key states. The conversation also dives into political strategies behind vice-presidential selections and the quirky redesign of state flags, adding a humorous twist to the serious political landscape.

In this discussion, James Politi, the Washington bureau chief at the Financial Times, delves into the rising trend of protectionism in U.S. trade policy. He highlights how both Democrats and Republicans are reshaping their approaches, often citing national security as a key concern. The conversation unpacks the Biden administration's potential block on Japan's Nippon Steel takeover and examines the political motivations behind these shifts. It raises intriguing questions about the future of trade relations, especially with European allies amid evolving economic dynamics.