The spiked podcast

Danny Kruger, Conservative MP for East Wiltshire, passionately argues against assisted dying, engaging in a thought-provoking dialogue with Fraser Myers. He warns that legalizing a 'right to die' would lead to NHS providing 'death on demand,' revealing the potential for mission creep as seen in Canada. The discussion emphasizes ethical concerns and the risks posed to vulnerable groups, calling for critical scrutiny of proposed safeguards. Kruger implores MPs to reject the impending bill to protect individuals from unintended consequences.

Fraser Myers hosts Luke Gittos, a Spiked columnist focused on politics and culture, and Michael Murphy, a Telegraph writer and documentary presenter. They dive deep into the recent farmer protests against inheritance tax policies, revealing the disconnect between rural realities and government responses. The conversation also touches on the tensions surrounding free speech, particularly in light of non-crime hate incidents. Additionally, they critique Jaguar's controversial marketing shift and the larger implications for brand loyalty.

Natasha Hausdorff, a barrister and director at UK Lawyers for Israel, tackles the rampant anti-Israel narratives often labeled as 'genocide' and 'apartheid.' She critiques the misuse of international law and the historical context of 'blood libel' accusations against Jews. Hausdorff argues that media misrepresentation and Hamas's role distort the truth about Israel's actions. She also discusses the erosion of trust in international law due to political agendas and calls for genuine engagement with the complex realities on the ground.

Rakib Ehsan, a Spike columnist known for his insights into Trump voters, joins Tom Slater and Fraser Myers to dissect the backlash against Elon Musk. They examine how Musk’s influence is reshaping voter dynamics, particularly among minority groups. The conversation shifts to the controversial policing of speech and its implications for free expression. They also touch on the fallout from political views affecting sports commentary, particularly in the case of a prominent BBC presenter, illustrating the intersections of politics and public perception.

Joel Kotkin, a political and cultural expert, joins Tom Slater and Fraser Myers to dissect Donald Trump's surprising electoral victory. They delve into how this win symbolizes a revolt against the elite, fueled by a broader support base, including minority voters. The discussion critiques the political establishment's disconnect with everyday Americans, examining cultural and economic grievances. Additionally, they explore shifting voter loyalties among demographic groups and the internal struggles within the Democratic Party for unity amidst a changing political landscape.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a columnist and author known for her insights on social class, joins independent journalist Zaid Jilani and Nick Gillespie, editor at Reason magazine, to dissect Trump's surprising political comeback. They delve into Trump’s appeal among working-class voters, challenging the media's misconceptions about their priorities. The trio confronts narratives of racism in his support base, highlighting a multiracial coalition. They also discuss shifting political dynamics and the urgent need for more relevant discourse in today's politics.

Luke Gittos, Tom Slater and Fraser Myers discuss the US election, slavery reparations and the Southport revelations. Take your business to the next level with Shopify. Sign up now and get a £1-per-month trial period. This episode is sponsored by AG1. Sign up today and get a free one-year supply of Vitamin D with your first subscription. Donate £50 or more to spiked and get a signed copy of Brendan O’Neill’s new book, After the Pogrom: 7 October, Israel and the Crisis of Civilisation. We’ll also throw in a year’s membership to spiked supporters: https://www.spiked-online.com/donate/  You can also order a regular copy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1068719303/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ian Acheson, a senior advisor at the Counter-Extremism Project, and Paul Embery, author of "Despised," engage in a thought-provoking discussion. They tackle the controversial shooting of Chris Kaba and the attempt to frame him as a British martyr. The conversation also highlights the unsettling narrative surrounding the death of rioter Peter Lynch, questioning the justice system's handling of mental health. They delve into America's political discontent and the polarized responses to racial incidents, revealing the complexities behind the 'anti-racist' discourse.

This is the audio from a video we have just published on our YouTube channel – an interview with Lionel Shriver. To make sure you never miss great content like this, subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@spiked  Kamala Harris has been hailed as the candidate of ‘joy’. But is there any substance beneath the supposedly feelgood vibes? Here, Lionel Shriver – author of Mania – tells spiked that there’s something fraudulent about Harris, who she says has never had an original idea nor held a consistent principle. Shriver also weighs in on the interminable ‘Trump is a fascist’ debate, the incompetence of Tim Walz and the dangers of a tight election result.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Graham Linehan, Kathleen Stock and Rakib Ehsan joined Tom Slater and Fraser Myers for this special live edition of the spiked podcast, hosted at the Battle of Ideas festival on Sunday 20 October. They discussed why Keir Starmer has turned out to be so rubbish as PM, the plan to legalise assisted suicide, whether Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick is the ailing Tories’ best bet for renewal, whether America will plump for Trump or Kamala, and the killing of Yahya Sinwar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices