The Two Matts

This week, the Matts talk to Pulitzer-winning author and journalist Anne Applebaum about her terrific new book on modern autocracy - and how different it is to the 20th century totalitarian blocs. How complicit is the West in these new networks of corruption and repression? And - with the UN at a low ebb - what can be done to take on these nimble and nasty states? Don’t miss this conversation with one of the most important writers in the world today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the rest of podcastistan celebrates the dignity of President Biden’s departure from the race to beat Trump, the Matts are fuming and wonder how events might have unfolded had Joe seen sense six months ago. As it is, the contest is between a Black female Californian and an Orange lunatic. Can the Democrats win? Who wants to run as VP? And why is America’s first President of colour refusing to endorse the woman who wants to be the next? Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Two Matts discuss Europe's shift towards right-wing populism and its implications for the UK rejoining the EU; how media brevity has impacted political understanding and debate; the Trump shooting conspiracy theories, and the public's diminished joy in politics and sports over the years. The intrepid podcasters also dive into how soundbite culture have reshaped political communication. Plus: the Paris Olympics and the wonder that is Daley Thompson.Subscribe to The New European for as little at £1/week and get an exclusive offer just for listening to this podcast: https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The King’s Speech was packed with plans … putting to bed the theory that Keir Starmer’s Labour government had no plan. But will it be enough to instigate the national renewal they have promised? The Matts discuss. Also - what does JD Vance mean for Trump and for Britain? And why is David Lammy parading his Christianity on the national airwaves? The Matts make sense of international manoeuvring. Enjoy!Subscribe to The New European for as little at £1/week and get an exclusive offer just for listening to this podcast: https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2mattsFurther Reading/listeningJames Bloodworth - HiredPhilosophize This - Listen here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The attempted assassination attempt of Donald Trump does not sanctify a man who has thrived on a particularly violent rhetoric his whole political career. As Nigel Farage blames the media, as MAGA Republican Senator JD Vance blames Joe Biden and the Democrats, the Matts look at the unfolding shift in how Trump and his supporters are reacting to the shooting - and what it means for America and the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week The Two Matts examine Keir Starmer's leadership, the Labour Party's Brexit policy, and the political dynamics shaping the country's future. From electoral strategies to European relations and internal political struggles, this episode covers it all. The pair also deliberate over the The Telegraph's editorial stance, the UK's military considerations, and the United Nations. And, perhaps most importantly is football coming home. Subscribe to The New European : https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s increasingly apparent President Joe Biden is unfit to challenge Donald Trump for the White House. But what can stop him? The Matts consider the predicament facing the United States and the world… with, it’s fair to say, a deep sense of foreboding. Also … can the Three Lions do it? Will it come home? The Matts haven’t got a clue but that doesn’t stop them going on about it for a good ten minutes… enjoy!Subscribe to The New European : https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer looked incredibly at ease and confident at the Saturday presser. The Matts can’t remember a smoother beginning and he has recruited some great expertise. But is administrative excellence enough? Also … one question lingers in the air: Where the hell are all the Tories? Enjoy!Subscribe to The New European : https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After their Election all-nighter, the Matts consider the twists and turns of a quite extraordinary election. A massive, historic night for Keir Starmer’s Labour and a shuddering comeuppance for Sunak and the Conservative Party. Well played Ed Davey and a disaster for the SNP. But the rise of Reform and the volatility of the electorate asks big questions about what comes next for British politics. Enjoy!Subscribe to The New European : https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the final few days of the election campaign and the Matts are joined by Keir Starmer biographer for deep insight into what’s going to happen in the immediate aftermath of a Labour government. How to combat the rising tide of far right politics, who will the new stars of Labour be, and should Starmer go to the Euro finals of England get through? Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.