Americano

Nigel Farage, MP and leader of Reform UK, known for his close ties to Donald Trump, shares his insights on the upcoming US election. He suggests Trump is regaining popularity with his signature humor. Kate Andrews and Tim Stanley discuss Kamala Harris's struggling candidacy while analyzing shifting attitudes among voters, especially in swing states. Pollster James Kanagasooriam evaluates the changing demographics that could impact both parties. They conclude with reflections on the future of U.S. politics and the diplomatic challenges ahead.

James Heale, political correspondent for The Spectator, reveals the Labour Party's alleged interference in U.S. elections, sparking heated accusations from Trump’s camp. Heale discusses the challenge Labour faces navigating their ties with American Democrats while dealing with Trump's potential re-election. The conversation dives into Labour's evolving foreign policy, particularly regarding China, and reflects on shifting perspectives about Trump and the broader implications of international politics on domestic affairs.

Michael Kazin, a historian at Georgetown University and coeditor of Dissent, delves into the complexities of the Electoral College and its relevance today. He discusses historical criticisms and hypothetical scenarios, shedding light on how partisan interests shape perceptions. Kazin also explores potential reforms and the impact of immigration on voting behavior. He reflects on the enduring nature of activism, drawing parallels with the 1960s Yippie movement, and emphasizes the transformative power of political engagement in the modern landscape.

Join Kate Andrews, Economics editor at The Spectator, and Dr. Richard Johnson, Senior lecturer in US politics at Queen Mary's University, as they dive into the dynamics of the 2024 American election. They discuss the shifting Latino vote and the Democratic Party's struggle to engage historically loyal demographics. The guests explore the implications of economic and cultural factors on voter alignment, plus offer intriguing predictions about election outcomes, all sprinkled with witty commentary on societal grievances and public transport etiquette.

Ryan Girdursky, founder of the 1776 Project PAC and author, brings his Catholic perspective to the discussion of the Catholic vote's influence in American elections. He examines how economic struggles and cultural shifts are reshaping voter loyalty. The conversation reveals the complexities of Catholic attitudes towards immigration and abortion, particularly post-Dobbs, highlighting conflicts between church teachings and personal experience. Girdursky also explores how younger Catholics are gravitating towards conservative values, presenting a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of faith and politics.

Shruti Rajagopalan, an economist at the Mercatus Center, dives into the fascinating success story of Indian Americans in the U.S. She discusses their significant presence in politics, citing figures like Kamala Harris and Vivek Ramaswamy. The conversation explores how historical immigration policies and educational advantages contribute to their success. Shruti also examines the political dynamics, highlighting shifts in affiliations and identity issues, including the impact of intermarriage trends among Indian Americans.

In this discussion, Luke Thompson, a seasoned Republican strategist with extensive experience on campaigns from Bernie Moreno to J.D. Vance, analyzes the ground game strategies of both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. He dives into the nuances of postal voting and voter registration, revealing how demographic shifts are reshaping campaign tactics. Additionally, Luke highlights the erosion of support from labor unions for Democrats and examines the GOP's evolving approach to voter mobilization, amidst an unpredictable election landscape.

Thomas Frank, a journalist and historian known for his insightful work on American populism, joins Freddy Gray to delve into the current political scene. They discuss the evolution of populism and the dynamic between grassroots movements and elite reforms. Frank shares his views on the transformation of political conventions, highlighting their shift from open debate to scripted events. The conversation touches on perceptions of gender in politics and critiques the lack of substantive discourse in contemporary political debates, especially regarding Trump and Biden.

Amy Wax, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania, shares her controversial views on race, culture, and education, following her recent suspension. She discusses the feminization of institutions and argues for a return to traditional educational practices from the 1950s. Wax delves into the decline of analytical thinking and the challenges of free speech in academia, emphasizing the importance of defending Enlightenment values amidst rising political ideologies. Her reflections on radicalization and the misinterpretation of political discourse add further depth to the conversation.

JD Vance, a Vice President nominee and rising Republican star, faces off against Tim Walz in a heated debate covering pressing issues like the Middle East conflict and abortion rights. Sarah Eliot from Republicans Overseas joins to analyze Vance's strong performance and what it could mean for his presidential aspirations. They delve into the evolving Republican stance on abortion, emphasizing a shift towards pro-family rhetoric. The discussion also touches on the importance of emotional connection in political debates and the influence of past leaders like Trump.