The Morning Edition

Michael Koziol, North America correspondent for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, shares his firsthand insights from the memorial for Charlie Kirk in Arizona. He highlights the emotional impact of Erica Kirk’s public forgiveness amidst a charged atmosphere, drawing parallels to a Trump rally. Koziol discusses Stephen Miller's dramatic rhetoric and the crowd's contrasting responses to forgiveness and vengeance. He explores how Trump’s statements reflect an adversarial political stance and the heightened tensions across the U.S. in the wake of Kirk's assassination.

David Swan, Technology editor for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, breaks down the recent Optus outage affecting triple zero calls. He discusses the tragic consequences, including multiple deaths, and examines how a firewall upgrade led to this critical failure. Swan delves into the accountability of telecommunications companies and argues for the need for independent oversight of emergency services. The conversation raises key questions about trust in telcos and the urgency of investigations into the incident.

In this discussion, Benjamin Preiss, regional editor at The Age/The Sydney Morning Herald, sheds light on the rapid expansion of fast-food chains in Australia’s regional areas. He delves into how these outlets often outpace healthier food options, shaping the streets of new suburbs. The health implications for local schools and communities bring urgency to the conversation. Preiss explores the push for planning reforms to limit these establishments, advocating for a change that truly enhances food choices for families.

James Massola, Chief political commentator for The Age/Sydney Morning Herald, dives into Australia's ambitious 2035 emissions reduction target and the Coalition's fierce backlash. He explores whether the Coalition's cost-focused anti-climate strategy can sway voters, delving into recent political divisions and comparisons with the Voice campaign. Massola also discusses the global implications of Australia's climate commitments amid international challenges, highlighting the risks and opportunities that lie ahead.

Bianca Hall, an environment and climate reporter, and Mike Foley, a climate and energy correspondent, dive into Australia's ambitious 2035 climate emissions target. They unpack the significance of the National Climate Risk Assessment and the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the urgency of limiting global warming. The pair discuss the complex interplay of politics, renewable energy, and industries in achieving these targets, while highlighting regional concerns from the Pacific. Their insights reveal the broader implications of Australia's climate policies on global investments.

Renee Jeffery, an International Relations Professor at Griffith University, discusses the violent protests in Nepal led by Gen Z activists. These uprisings were sparked by widespread anger at the privileges of the elite and a government ban on social media. The turmoil resulted in the resignation of the Prime Minister and significant political shifts. Jeffery explores the youth's battle against systemic corruption and their calls for accountability, showcasing a potential new era of leadership and hope for reform in Nepal's political landscape.

Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, an Indigenous senator and former children's entertainer, captures attention with her straight-talking approach. Patrick Begley and Natassia Chrysanthos delve into her rapid rise and recent challenges, including her controversial stances on the Stolen Generations and immigration. They explore her substantial conservative backing and the backlash from her hometown. The discussion highlights the tension between her celebrity status and the polarized views on her policies, raising questions about her future in politics.

In this vibrant discussion, Jason Stanley, a philosophy professor at the University of Toronto and author of 'Erasing History,' shares his insights on the troubling rise of fascism. He argues that U.S. political climate resembles historical fascist regimes, exacerbated by American exceptionalism. Stanley explores the emergence of a 'cult of the leader' in modern politics, the dangerous 'great replacement theory,' and global perspectives on authoritarianism. He emphasizes the need for civil action to protect democracy, drawing examples from Germany's political unity against far-right movements.

Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent, joins the discussion on the dismissal of Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from the Coalition frontbench. They dissect her controversial comments about the Indian community and the tensions within the Liberal Party. Sakkal explores the ramifications of her sacking, with Price's defiance potentially turning her into a martyr for her supporters. The conversation also touches on the impending climate policy debate, highlighting the challenges the government faces as they navigate their emissions targets.

International and political editor Peter Hartcher discusses the escalating competition between Australia and China for influence in the Pacific. He highlights how Australia's government is utilizing strategic gift-giving, like providing cars to smaller nations, to counter China's presence. The conversation delves into the broader implications for regional security and Australia's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty from foreign interference. Hartcher also examines key diplomatic initiatives, revealing the evolving significance of ties with Pacific Island nations.