Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Nosheen Iqbal and Helen Pidd, Today in Focus brings you closer to Guardian journalism. Combining storytelling with insightful analysis and personal testimonies, the podcast takes you behind the headlines for a deeper understanding of the news, every weekday. Today in Focus is unmatched in both scope and depth, delivering analysis and storytelling from right across the planet. With a global network of over 900 journalists and five dedicated editions covering news in the US, UK, Australia, Europe, and beyond, the Guardian offers comprehensive reporting across every continent. Most recently we have introduced new correspondents in the Caribbean, South America and Africa.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 18, 2024 • 9min
US election extra: the path to power – understanding the electoral college
Chris Michael, US editor at The Guardian, provides a deep dive into the intricacies of the US Electoral College. He discusses the critical battleground states and their vital 270-vote threshold necessary for winning an election. The conversation highlights shifts in key swing states like Ohio and Florida, shedding light on their evolving political landscapes. Michael also addresses the historical advantages of the Electoral College for Republicans and considers the implications of potential tied votes in the current political climate.
8 snips
Oct 18, 2024 • 20min
The killing of Yahya Sinwar
Julian Borger, The Guardian’s World Affairs editor, dives deep into the assassination of Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader behind the October 7 attacks. He discusses Sinwar's rise in Hamas and his brutal tactics during his leadership. Borger analyzes the implications of Sinwar's death for the Gaza conflict and the power dynamics within Hamas. The conversation touches on the complex motivations behind the attacks and explores the broader geopolitical ramifications, including the potential effects on regional stability and peace processes.
Oct 17, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: Harris breaks with Biden
Adam Gabbatt, a Guardian US writer, dissects Kamala Harris's bold interview on Fox News where she distances herself from Biden. The conversation delves into Harris's strategy to attract undecided Republican voters and her challenges in addressing tough issues like immigration. Gabbatt highlights the critical role of Latino voters in swing states, discussing shifting sentiments within Black and Latino communities. The dynamic includes Harris's proactive campaign efforts in the Midwest, contrasting her approach with previous electoral missteps.
Oct 17, 2024 • 36min
How abortion became a battleground issue of the US election – podcast
Carter Sherman, a reproductive health and justice reporter at The Guardian US, and Lauren Miller, a Texas woman who faced harsh abortion laws, dive deep into the current political landscape surrounding abortion. They discuss the emotional complexities of unexpected pregnancies and the chilling experiences of women navigating restrictive laws. The conversation highlights how abortion rights are shaping swing state elections and the need for personal narratives to humanize reproductive choices amid political turmoil.
Oct 16, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: Musk’s millions
Adam Gabbatt, a Guardian US writer based in NYC, dives into Elon Musk's significant donations to Donald Trump's reelection campaign. He discusses the motives behind Musk's financial backing and compares his influence to other wealthy donors. Gabbatt also highlights the stark fundraising disparities between political figures and how these impact their campaign strategies. The conversation intensifies with a look at the escalating rhetoric regarding Trump’s perceived threats to democracy, coupled with insights on early voting trends in Georgia.
Oct 16, 2024 • 27min
How UN peacekeepers ended up in Israel’s line of fire
Patrick Wintour, The Guardian's diplomatic editor, shares insights on the precarious situation of UN peacekeepers in Lebanon as they face increasing threats from Israeli forces. He discusses the complex dynamics between peacekeepers and local military, detailing recent attacks on their bases. Wintour highlights the historical context of UN relations with Israel and the international backlash following these confrontations, as well as the growing scrutiny of UNRWA amid funding crises. His analysis sheds light on the humanitarian challenges in this volatile region.
Oct 15, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: DJ Trump
Chris Michael, The Guardian's US editor in London, dives into Donald Trump's unconventional town hall in Oaks, Pennsylvania, where instead of political discourse, he entertained with music, leaving audiences divided. The discussion also highlights rising tensions between Trump and the Harris campaign, particularly around health and fitness narratives. Additionally, the importance of engaging diverse voter demographics in Michigan is emphasized, showcasing the critical strategies for the upcoming election.
Oct 15, 2024 • 32min
The hurricanes shaking the US election – podcast
Oliver Milman, a Guardian US environment reporter, shares his insights on how recent hurricanes may shift the political discourse around climate change. Florida resident Alexandra Marcella recounts her emotional journey during Hurricanes Helene and Milton, highlighting personal challenges faced amid natural disasters. The conversation explores the effects of misinformation, the urgency of climate action in electoral contexts, and the complexities of addressing environmental issues alongside immediate voter concerns. Will the climate crisis shape upcoming elections?
Oct 14, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: the state of the race
Chris Michael, The Guardian's US editor, breaks down the escalating rivalry in the US presidential election, focusing on Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. He discusses the alarming decline in support for Harris among Black and Hispanic voters and the implications for the Democratic party. The conversation shifts to the critical strategies targeting key swing states like Pennsylvania, and the contrasting campaign styles of the candidates. Finally, a campaign mishap highlights the delicate balance of voter sentiment on the trail.
Oct 14, 2024 • 31min
How Giorgia Meloni became Europe’s favourite far-right leader
Alexander Stille, a Columbia University journalism professor and expert on Giorgia Meloni, dives into the intriguing world of Italy's first far-right female prime minister. He unpacks how Meloni transformed from a young far-right activist to a significant political player, navigating Italy's turbulent landscape. The conversation reveals her strategic balancing act between hardline views and European respectability, while also addressing the rise in far-right ideologies and their implications for LGBTQ rights in Italy.
