Americast

Henry Bushnell, Senior Soccer Writer at The Athletic, dives into the intriguing ties between Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino ahead of the 2026 World Cup. They discuss how Trump's ambition for global spotlight intersects with the tournament's politics, including his controversial threats to shift games from Democratic cities. Bushnell also elaborates on the implications of the new FIFA Peace Prize and how Trump's showmanship shapes the event's narrative, reflecting on its burgeoning commercial landscape and the dynamics within American soccer fandom.

The podcast delves into a chaotic cabinet meeting, highlighting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s controversial comments about U.S. military operations in the Caribbean. The hosts scrutinize Trump’s inflammatory statements about Somali immigrants, connecting them to broader immigration policies targeting Minnesota's Somali community. Additionally, they analyze video evidence suggesting that Trump might have dozed off during the meeting, leading to playful banter about his health and comparisons with previous presidents.

The discussion kicks off with Trump's alarming warning about drug trafficking off Venezuela's coast. Tensions rise as he proposes closing Venezuelan airspace while considering a migration pause following an attack on National Guard members. Hosts delve into Transportation Secretary Duffy's call for more civility in air travel, reflecting on recent bad behavior onboard flights. A shocking report unveils allegations of war crimes linked to US strikes on survivors, igniting debates about legal ramifications and political fallout.

Nick Reisman, Albany Bureau Chief for POLITICO, shares insights on the unexpected cordial meeting between New York's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, and Donald Trump. They discuss the implications of this alliance amidst political tensions, including Mamdani's tax proposals that clash with Trump's ideologies. Reisman emphasizes New Yorkers' unique connection to outsider politicians and examines potential suburban backlash. The conversation also explores Mamdani's strategy to navigate complex relationships while pursuing his agenda in a politically charged environment.

The hosts dive into recent legal setbacks for Trump, including a federal judge's dismissal of charges against James Comey and Letitia James due to improper prosecution appointments. They discuss the implications of these rulings and the ensuing fallout in the political arena. Social media reactions from MAGA supporters frame the situation as vindication, while the hosts examine the broader strategy of lawfare and its potential consequences. The political drama continues to unfold as the White House plots its next moves.

Trump hinted at a potential peace plan for Ukraine, but critics argue it favors Russia. Tensions rise as Marjorie Taylor Greene announces her resignation, possibly signaling shifts within the MAGA movement. The hosts discuss Trump's recent, warm meeting with New York's mayor-elect, raising questions about their political alliance. They also dissect Trump's controversial comments about Democrats and explore his motives behind the peace negotiations, suggesting a mix of legacy and profit-driven interests.

Marjorie Taylor Greene stuns by opposing Donald Trump, attracting unexpected Democratic praise. She takes a stand on the Epstein files and publicly challenges Trump's claims about the economy. The hosts explore her evolution from loyal supporter to critic and her provocative rise in the MAGA movement. There's a debate over her beliefs in conspiracy theories, her advocacy for Epstein survivors, and her potential ambitions beyond Congress. Finally, they highlight a special election in Tennessee and the ongoing loyalty to Trump among local Republicans.

Donald Trump has shifted his stance, promising to sign a bill for the release of the Epstein Files amid bipartisan pressure. The hosts discuss the implications for his presidency and the rift within his base. Survivors are demanding accountability, while the interest in powerful figures like Prince Andrew adds intrigue. Trump’s contentious exchanges with reporters highlight the ongoing tensions. The impending release raises questions about document tampering and the broader impact on justice and political reputations.

On Sunday night Donald Trump told Republicans in the House of Representatives to vote in favour of releasing files relating to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein “because we have nothing to hide”. It’s a striking change in position from the president who has so far resisted pressure from Democrats and Republicans in his own party who have been demanding that all files relating to Epstein be released into the public domain. One of the Republicans calling for their release is the conservative firebrand and Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who was once one of Trump’s most faithful supporters. After stepping up her demands to see the files released, she now appears to have lost the president’s backing who called her a “traitor” and a “disgrace” to the Republican Party. We answer your questions on why the pair have fallen out.And, we answer your questions on why there’s been another presidential pardon, this time for the UK billionaire Joe Lewis, whose family trust owns Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. Sarah, Anthony, Justin and Marianna all joined Matt Chorley on 5 Live today to answer these questions and plenty more.HOSTS: * Matt Chorley, 5 Live presenter * Sarah Smith, North America Editor * Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter * Anthony Zurcher, North America correspondent * Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations correspondentGET IN TOUCH: * Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB * Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480 * Email Americast@bbc.co.uk * Or use #AmericastThis episode was made by George Dabby with Grace Reeve and Laura Cain. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.If you want to be notified every time we publish a new episode, please subscribe to us on BBC Sounds by hitting the subscribe button on the app.You can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155Americast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Americast also makes lots of other podcasts, including Newscast and Ukrainecast. If you enjoy Americast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p05299nl Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd

The podcast dives into the cracks appearing in the MAGA movement as some Republicans question Trump's commitment to 'America First.' Key discussions include Trump's controversial comments about foreign aid to Argentina and his proposed 50-year mortgages. The hosts analyze how social media influencers amplify discontent and the mixed messaging from the administration on tariffs and economic policies. They also explore whether Trump can reconcile the need for foreign workers with his base's immigration concerns, all while evaluating the evolving dynamics within the Republican party.