Americano

Katherine Dee, a technology correspondent for The Spectator World and Substack writer, joins to delve into AI-driven 'necromancy.' She discusses Two Way Eye, an app that projects deceased loved ones and raises ethical concerns about AI recreations. The conversation contrasts traditional memory-keeping with AI avatars, questioning authenticity. They explore how digital habits shape thought, the rise of digital orality, and the transformation of online fame. Plus, Katherine highlights how reliance on technology impacts skills and fuels nostalgia.

Alan Dershowitz, Professor Emeritus at Harvard Law School and seasoned criminal-defense lawyer, shares insights on the newly released Epstein emails. He challenges the narrative surrounding Trump's involvement and discusses discrepancies in accusations, particularly from Virginia Giuffre. Dershowitz argues for transparency regarding withheld names to ensure credibility in the legal discourse. He highlights ongoing concerns about sealed depositions and speculates on more revelations that could emerge, underscoring the importance of balancing victims' privacy with public interest.

In this engaging debate, Ann Coulter, an American conservative commentator known for her provocative views on immigration, goes head-to-head with British writer Peter Hitchens, who critiques Trump-era politics. They discuss whether Trump truly made America great again, touching on immigration control, national identity, and the implications of executive power. Hitchens warns that Trumpism undermines the rule of law while Coulter argues for its positive impact on American leadership globally. Their clash highlights the broader cultural and political tensions between the U.S. and Britain.

Heather Mac Donald, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and expert on urban policy, dives into the implications of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's agenda for New York. She argues his inexperience and leftist ideologies threaten the city’s progress on crime, housing, and education. Heather critiques overregulation as a cause of high housing costs and warns against weak enforcement of laws under Mamdani. She expresses concern over the disconnect between privileged young voters and working-class realities, raising questions about public safety and governance.

Kate Andrews, the outgoing deputy U.S. editor at The Spectator, delves into Javier Milei's shocking electoral triumph in Argentina. She explores how his radical anarcho-capitalist views both aligned with and defied polling expectations. Discussing Milei's success, she highlights his economic achievements in combatting inflation and fostering GDP growth. The conversation also covers the political implications of his landslide victory, potential US support, and how austerity measures reshaped voter perceptions.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW: spectator.co.uk/greatagainJoin The Spectator’s deputy editor and host of the Americano podcast, Freddy Gray, as Ann Coulter and Peter Hitchens go head-to-head to debate the highs and lows of Trump’s first year back in the White House. Has Trump 2.0 lived up to its promise – or fallen short of the ‘Golden Age’?When: 7:00 pm November 3, 2025Where: Emmanuel Centre, 9-23 Marsham St, LondonBecome a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts. Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Jenkins, a veteran British journalist and former editor, dives into his book on American history. He discusses the unique factors that shaped the United States into a global power, highlighting the significance of compromise in the Constitution and the impact of war on federal authority. Jenkins reflects on America's moral complexities, from its treatment of Native Americans to the struggles with identity and interventionism. He also examines contemporary issues, including Trump's influence and the persistent dysfunction of Congress.

Tara Reade, a former U.S. Senate aide known for accusing Joe Biden of sexual assault, shares her intriguing journey of seeking asylum in Moscow. She discusses the media's polarized reaction to her allegations and the threats that drove her to leave the U.S. Reade offers insights into her work with Russian media, the freedom she experiences there, and her unique perspective on the Ukraine conflict as a proxy war. She also reflects on her future plans, including holding dual citizenship and possibly returning to America under different political circumstances.

Owen Matthews, a seasoned Russia correspondent and author, joins to dissect the complexities of the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the contrasting approaches of Trump and Putin, highlighting their differing priorities in peace negotiations. Matthews explains the challenges facing Ukraine's President Zelensky, especially regarding territorial concessions. The conversation delves into the limitations of Western strategies against Russia, the historical roots of Putin's motivations, and the potential consequences of military escalation, including nuclear risks.

James Orr, a Professor of Religion at the University of Cambridge and a keen observer of American politics, discusses JD Vance’s prospects for the presidency. He argues Vance is likely the GOP's future star, assessing his strengths and weaknesses. Orr highlights how Vance's close ties to Trump could either bolster or complicate his political journey. He also examines Vance’s emphasis on free speech, his handling of cancel culture, and how Trump's influence is shaping politics on both sides of the Atlantic.