In the first few days of his presidency, people tried to challenge and reason with Donald Trump – suing his administration, questioning his decisions to reporters and pleading to him for mercy. But does Trump care what his critics think? Jonathan Freedland speaks to Susan Glasser of the New Yorker about what we can expect from a leader who goes it alone

The cold forced the speeches indoors but it didn’t stop Donald Trump from announcing a flurry of executive orders dismantling much of the work of his predecessor. Jonathan Freedland speaks to the US commentator Molly Jong-Fast about what a virtual declaration of war against an American ally, a promise to “expand America’s territory” and a couple of declarations of emergency say about what we can expect from the next four years

After 15 months of war, a ceasefire deal in Gaza has been reached. In his farewell address to the nation, Joe Biden tried to convince the US public that it was just one of many successes he’d had in the White House. But is that how his time in office will be remembered? Jonathan Freedland speaks to the author Franklin Foer about Biden’s legacy

Blake Montgomery, Tech editor for Guardian US and author of the Techscape newsletter, discusses the intriguing shift in Silicon Valley's political allegiances. He highlights how major tech leaders, including Jeff Bezos, are now cozying up to Donald Trump, evidenced by significant donations to his inauguration. The conversation reveals Meta's controversial decision to drop third-party fact-checking, reflecting a deeper alignment with Republican interests. Montgomery explores how these dynamics impact public policy and the precarious balance of power between tech and the White House.

Kimberly Wehle, a constitutional law expert and author focused on presidential power, joins the discussion on the implications of Trump's potential pardons for January 6 rioters. She analyzes the complexities of presidential pardons, contrasting high-profile cases like Hunter Biden's with systemic inequities in justice. The conversation delves into the larger political ramifications, questioning the integrity of democracy and legal accountability in the face of personal political interests. Wehle provides insight into the chilling effects these actions may have on free speech and the rule of law.

Jonathan Alter, a renowned biographer of Jimmy Carter, dives deep into the complex legacy of the 39th president. He discusses how Carter's humanitarian efforts and moral integrity have reshaped perceptions of his presidency. Alter highlights Carter's pivotal role in the Camp David Accords and his significant post-presidential contributions, including his work with Habitat for Humanity. The conversation urges a reevaluation of Carter’s leadership amid the challenges he faced, showcasing him as a vital figure in global peace and a model of integrity.

Karim Zidan, an investigative journalist focused on the nexus of sports and politics, dives into Donald Trump's complex connections with various sports. He explores Trump’s relationships with figures like Dana White and Vince McMahon, highlighting how combat sports have shaped his public image. The discussion contrasts Trump's love for golf with his disinterest in team sports, revealing a unique sporting dichotomy that reflects his political strategies. Zidan also touches on the implications of hosting major events like the World Cup and Olympics under Trump's influence.

Hugo Lowell, a Guardian US journalist specializing in Donald Trump and the Justice Department, shares insightful perspectives on Trump's cabinet selection. The discussion delves into the contentious nomination process, spotlighting figures like Matt Gaetz and Pam Bondi, emphasizing their political implications. The conversation also explores the roles of Trump's personal attorneys within the Justice Department and the potential impact on legal oversight. Additionally, they touch on the new Department of Government Efficiency and the loyal yet tumultuous nature of Trump’s inner circle.

Prof. Kathryn Olmsted, a history professor at UC Davis and author of 'Real Enemies,' dives into how JFK's assassination sparked a whirlwind of conspiracy theories. She discusses the immediate public reactions and the growing skepticism towards government narratives. Olmsted highlights the evolution of these theories, tracing their roots from targeting marginalized groups to scrutinizing government entities. The conversation uncovers how this tragic event reshaped American political culture, leading to lasting impacts on trust and inquiry in democracy.

Michael Goldfarb, a seasoned journalist and author, delves into the controversial legacy of Henry Kissinger, the influential Secretary of State under Nixon. They discuss Kissinger's complex reputation, balancing his strategic genius with accusations of human rights violations. Goldfarb provides insights into Kissinger's early life in Nazi Germany and his rise in American politics. Their conversation also explores the intricate partnership between Kissinger and Nixon, particularly during pivotal moments like the Vietnam War and how Kissinger’s decisions continue to affect U.S. foreign policy.