Political Thinking with Nick Robinson

Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor and leader of the Christian Democratic Union, dives into pressing geopolitical issues. He candidly addresses Trump's impact on Europe, the urgency of military reforms amid rising tensions with Russia, and the necessity for Germany to bolster its defense by 2029. Merz critiques the dynamics surrounding Brexit, especially missed opportunities for negotiation. He also emphasizes the need for legal reforms to tackle migration challenges and discusses evolving UK-Germany relations through sports, highlighting leadership styles past and present.

Josh Babarinde, Liberal Democrat MP for Eastbourne and Justice Spokesperson, shares his inspiring journey from personal childhood trauma to reforming domestic abuse laws within just a year of entering Parliament. He reveals how a simple beer mat ignited his political passion. The conversation tackles the legal challenges surrounding domestic abuse and highlights the importance of community support. Babarinde also emphasizes the need for diverse political representation and the genuine drive behind advocating for victims, showcasing the impactful role of personal narratives in politics.

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the UK and leader of the Labour Party, reflects on his first year in power from Downing Street. He discusses the intricacies of leadership, taking responsibility for setbacks while highlighting his commitment to welfare reform and evidence-based policies. Starmer opens up about coping with personal loss and the impact it has on his public role. He shares insights on immigration control, the balance of political duties and family, and how his love for football shapes his competitive spirit.

A Republican Congressman outlines the values that lie behind his conservative politics.Scott Perry is the Representative for Pennsylvania's 10th District, a Trump ally, an Iran hawk who sits on the Foreign Affairs Committee, and a veteran, who flew combat missions in Iraq before turning his attention to politics.He joins Nick down the line from Washington DC, in the aftermath of his President's decision to drop bombs on Iran. Perry tells the story of how he went from growing up in a household with no electricity or running water, to being elected to the "most important deliberative body on the planet".

The Trade Minister explains how a penalty shootout played a role in his government appointment.Douglas Alexander has the same job that he had 20 years ago in Tony Blair's government. He reflects on how the world has changed in that time, and his motivation for returning to politics after a humiliating defeat in 2015.

The Shadow Chancellor sets out his vision for a more "thoughtful" politics and faces up to the challenge of winning the argument before the next general election.Sir Mel Stride reveals what he admires about his opposite number, Rachel Reeves, and why a world war two commander is one of his political heroes.He also has a warning about what the British economy would look like under Nigel Farage. Producer: Daniel Kraemer

How does it feel to be held up as the 'anti-Trump' by progressives across the globe?Jacinda Ardern was prime minister of New Zealand for 6 years and is now committed to promoting empathy and kindness in world leadership. She joins Nick in the Political Thinking studio to reflect on her unexpected rise to power and being described as a 'global pinup for progressive values'.She also opens up about how growing up in a Mormon family prepared her for politics and reveals what she told Donald Trump in the aftermath of the murder of 51 people in a mosque in New Zealand in 2019.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

After 15 years as a member of the House of Lords, Tanni Grey-Thompson reflects on how a career at the top of sport prepared her for the world of politics.The crossbench peer speaks to Nick about what she sees as a dangerous relationship between benefit reforms and legalising assisted dying.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

The First Minister of Wales sets a marker to the left of Keir Starmer, setting out her vision of a "Red Welsh Way", drawing inspiration from Gavin and Stacey.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

Reform UK’s deputy leader reflects on a year of political success, a privileged upbringing and the cabinet job he’s eyeing upProducer: Daniel Kraemer