
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

Nov 7, 2024 • 32min
Are we about to see Trump unleashed?
Jacob Heilbrunn, Editor of The National Interest, dives into the aftermath of Kamala Harris's concession speech and Trump's sweeping victory. He explores the radical reforms Trump might pursue in a second term, including significant changes to fiscal policy and social programs. The discussion also highlights potential consequences for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding relationships with Ukraine and China. Additionally, Heilbrunn examines the challenges facing the Democratic Party as it navigates its future leadership and strategies.

Nov 6, 2024 • 28min
Lionel Shriver on the election that smashed identity politics
Lionel Shriver, a thought-provoking author and columnist, joins Kate Andrews to dissect the recent election results and their implications. They explore how Trump's victory could signal a shift away from identity politics and reveal the faltering strategies of Kamala Harris. Shriver critiques the superficial campaign tactics that failed to resonate with voters, particularly among women and Latino communities. The discussion also highlights the potential impact of a Republican-controlled Congress and the necessity for more substantive political dialogue moving forward.

Nov 6, 2024 • 33min
Why Donald Trump won and the real reason Kamala Harris lost
Rick MacArthur, Publisher of Harper's Magazine, and Sarah Elliott, Spokesperson for Republicans Overseas UK, dive deep into the implications of Donald Trump's comeback victory. They discuss his victory speech, highlighting the shift in tone and its impact on democracy. The two analyze the Republican Party's evolving landscape, concerns over escalating debt, and the changing social ideologies within the party. They also reflect on Kamala Harris's role and the challenges the Democrats face as Trump’s influence continues to grow.

Nov 6, 2024 • 21min
Election night: early signs suggest it’s Trump’s to lose
Amber Duke, the Washington editor of Spectator World reporting from Michigan, and Matt McDonald, managing editor of Spectator World at Kamala Harris's party in D.C., share their insights on election night. They discuss the surprising early signs favoring Trump, despite the caution surrounding the election. Duke highlights shifts in voter demographics and the impact of third-party candidates in Michigan. Meanwhile, McDonald captures the mood changes at Harris's party as reality sets in for her supporters.

Nov 5, 2024 • 21min
America heads to the polls – Freddy Gray reports from Florida
As Election Day looms, Florida captures the mixed emotions of voters craving resolution in a politically turbulent atmosphere. The podcast dives into the crucial role of swing states and the anxiety surrounding election fairness. It critically examines how gender dynamics influence voter perceptions, with fierce messaging from both parties. Voter concerns about the economy and intriguing superstitions from candidates add to the political drama. The discussion highlights the potential ramifications of contested results and the current lack of meaningful policy debate.

Nov 5, 2024 • 23min
Donald Trump's 'counter-cultural' gamble
Amber Duke, Washington editor for Spectator World and an on-the-ground reporter from Michigan, shares insights from a massive Trump rally in Grand Rapids. She discusses the energizing atmosphere as Trump presents himself as ‘Trump the fixer’ while leveraging nostalgia. Duke analyzes the unique strategies of both campaigns, focusing on the importance of voter demographics like young and suburban women. The conversation touches on shifting loyalties among younger voters who are reconsidering their allegiances as they approach the polls.

Nov 4, 2024 • 34min
Can Trump 'Get Out the Vote'?
Freddy keeps up Americano tradition by speaking to Daniel McCarthy ahead of the election. On the podcast they discuss how Trump’s get-out-the-vote project is working and the impact low-propensity voters could have on the result, whether this election will be plagued by inefficiencies in the American electoral system and if J.D. Vance is actually the heir apparent to the MAGA title.

Nov 4, 2024 • 36min
Is the last minute momentum really with Kamala Harris?
As the 2024 US election goes into the final day, a poll giving Kamala Harris a lead in the historically Republican state of Iowa has bolstered the Democrats. Is momentum really with her? And what appears to be the most important issue to voters - the economy, or abortion rights?Guest host Kate Andrews speaks to John Rick MacArthur, president and publisher of Harper's Magazine, about his views on America's election process from postal voting, trust in the system, and whether the electoral college needs reform.Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Nov 1, 2024 • 31min
America's impossible election choice
With just days to go until the American election, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump's respective campaigns continue to ramp up, with rallies and gimmicks, and even advertising on the Las Vegas Sphere. Despite this, Spectator contributor Lionel Shriver declares she is America's 'last undecided voter'. Why? Is it the candidates' characters that put her off voting for them, or the policies they represent? Lionel joins guest host, and fellow American, Kate Andrews to discuss further. Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.

Oct 31, 2024 • 31min
Why are Trump and Harris campaigning in safe States?
Megan McArdle, a columnist at the Washington Post, shares her insights on the current political landscape. She discusses why Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are choosing to focus their campaigns in safe states instead of swing states. The conversation delves into shifting voter dynamics, Trump's media strategies, and Harris's engagement challenges with Black voters. They also explore the implications of this trend for voter outreach and the struggle to predict the election outcomes, highlighting the complexity of modern electoral politics.