
Americano
The next chapter in American politics has begun, but is it going to be any less crazy? The Spectator's Americano podcast delivers in-depth discussions with the best American pundits to keep you in the loop. Presented by Freddy Gray.
Latest episodes

Sep 4, 2024 • 34min
Risk-takers, US election & the power of luck in politics – with Nate Silver
Nate Silver, a leading pollster and founder of FiveThirtyEight, dives into the art of predicting elections with Freddy Gray. He discusses the critical role of luck in politics and parallels with sports forecasting. Silver explores cultural mindsets shaping American identity, contrasting risk-taking in Silicon Valley with the East Coast's more cautious approach. He also analyzes the potential impacts of VP selections and political dynamics, pondering whether figures like JD Vance are wise choices for Trump as the election looms.

Aug 31, 2024 • 32min
Will Kamala actually build the wall?
Todd Bensman, a journalist and author with expertise in immigration policy, delves into Kamala Harris's recent shifts toward more moderate immigration stances. He explores the political tensions this creates, especially among Republican critics. The conversation highlights the complexities of U.S. immigration strategies, the implications of the Darien Gap as a migration route, and the evolving situation in Guatemala. Bensman also discusses how these issues could impact voter sentiment and future policies under a potential Democratic administration.

Aug 30, 2024 • 27min
Harris-Walz CNN interview: what did we learn?
In this engaging discussion, Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President, and Tim Walz, a veteran and Vice President nominee, reflect on their recent CNN interview. They explore Harris's plans for her first day in office, emphasizing support for the middle class and tackling everyday costs. The conversation also dives into media scrutiny of Walz's military credentials and critiques the Democratic approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran. Additionally, they touch on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s influence on authority perceptions and political endorsements.

Aug 26, 2024 • 42min
John Mearsheimer on Ukraine, Israel-Gaza and the US election
Professor John Mearsheimer, a noted expert in international relations, dives into the complex interplay of global conflicts and U.S. politics. He discusses the Israel-Gaza situation, highlighting how it fractures the Democratic Party’s unity, particularly affecting Kamala Harris. Mearsheimer also analyzes the strategic stakes of the ongoing Ukraine war and debates the West's involvement. The conversation further explores how the upcoming U.S. election will shape foreign policy, with emphasis on candidates Trump and Harris navigating these international pressures.

Aug 23, 2024 • 28min
What do the Democrats believe in?
In this discussion, Aidan McLaughlin, editor in chief of Mediaite, and Andrew Cockburn, Washington editor of Harper's Magazine, unpack the complexities facing the Democratic Party as the 2024 election approaches. They delve into Kamala Harris's evolving role and her beliefs, while dissecting how opposition to Trump shapes party identity. The conversation touches on the shifting political narratives, the impact of media portrayals, and the challenges of authenticity at the Democratic National Convention. Tensions around international issues and internal party dynamics add further intrigue.

Aug 22, 2024 • 34min
What's happened to RFK Jr?
Ben Domenech, Editor at Large of The Spectator World, joins the discussion around Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s potential exit from the presidential race. They explore how his departure could reshape voter dynamics and impact key battleground states. The conversation also dives into the shifting landscape of Democratic allegiance, driven by issues like the Israel-Gaza conflict. Additionally, they touch on the implications of reproductive rights narratives in political campaigns and the challenges faced by Tim Walz amid rising stakes.

Aug 20, 2024 • 15min
Democrats, Labour & 'working people'
Lucy Rigby and Mike Tapp, Labour MPs from North Northampton and Dover & Deal respectively, share insights at the DNC about engaging working-class voters. They discuss how Democrats can strengthen their appeal amidst changing political dynamics. The conversation also touches on Kamala Harris's campaign strategies and the significance of economic concerns like inflation on voter sentiment. With the backdrop of a volatile political landscape, they explore the relationship between UK Labour and US Democrats in addressing urgent public issues.

Aug 17, 2024 • 29min
What do Americans think of Britain's online policing?
Douglas Murray, a sharp commentator and author on free speech, joins Freddy Gray to dive into the stark differences in free speech between Britain and America. He discusses the disturbing sentencing after recent riots and how online policing often overlooks more pressing societal issues. The conversation critiques the focus on policing online hate rather than serious crimes, revealing public dissatisfaction with authorities. Murray also reflects on his personal experiences with online abuse, highlighting the complexities of modern discourse.

Aug 13, 2024 • 34min
Is Elon Musk a great man of history?
Join journalist Ed West, a contributor to the Spectator, and political science researcher Richard Hanania as they dive into the intriguing relationship between technology and politics. They dissect the recent Trump-Musk dialogue and its implications for free speech on social media. The conversation touches on Trump's controversial appeal and his influence in shaping political narratives. Finally, they unpack the role of passion in political discourse and how evolving media landscapes affect public perceptions and campaigning strategies.

Aug 7, 2024 • 39min
Is Trump having a meltdown?
Kamala Harris, a prominent political figure and the Democratic nominee, invites Josh Shapiro, a favored vice presidential candidate, and Tim Walz, the surprising choice for her running mate. They discuss Trump’s perceived public breakdown and shifting strategies in light of her candidacy. The conversation dives into the implications of Walz’s selection, critiques of Democratic strategies focusing on base mobilization rather than swing voters, and the evolving voting patterns among Jewish voters, hinting at fractures in Republican support.