ABC News Daily

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Sep 17, 2025 • 15min

Charlie Kirk and a new wave of political violence

In this discussion, historian Dan Carter, a Professor Emeritus at the University of South Carolina, dives into the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. He provides a gripping historical perspective, linking current political violence to events from the 1960s. Carter highlights the unsettling rise of political aggression since 2011, exploring the implications of weaponized rhetoric and the profound international repercussions. His insights prompt reflection on whether we are witnessing a pivotal moment in American political dynamics.
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9 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 15min

Alan Kohler on the new emissions target

Alan Kohler, ABC TV's finance expert, dives into Australia's revised carbon emissions target, shifting from 2030 to 2035. He raises questions about the political motivations behind this change, while detailing alarming insights from the latest climate risk assessment. Kohler discusses the pressing need for action amidst forecasts of increased natural disasters and the critical balance between optimism and realism in climate discussions. He also explores the challenges of meeting the 2035 target, particularly in the face of ongoing fossil fuel projects and the need for effective adaptation strategies.
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16 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 16min

Laura Tingle on China and our military spending

In this insightful discussion, Laura Tingle, ABC's Global Affairs Editor, sheds light on the recent military parade in Beijing, showcasing China's advanced weaponry, including intercontinental ballistic missiles. She talks about the implications for Australia's military strategy, revealing how these developments might necessitate a complete rethink of defense priorities. Tingle also explores the impact of global dynamics, including the AUKUS agreement and technological advancements, emphasizing the urgent need for Australia to adapt its military investments to navigate a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
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17 snips
Sep 14, 2025 • 15min

Should EV drivers pay to use roads?

Giles Parkinson, founder and editor of the EV-focused websites Renew Economy and The Driven, dives into the contentious topic of road user charges for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. He argues that taxing EVs is a clunky solution to address declining fuel excise revenue as EV adoption rises. The discussion highlights legal challenges in states like Victoria and explores fair strategies for implementing usage fees, while also tackling misconceptions about EVs and consumer resistance from traditional car manufacturers. A thought-provoking listen!
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21 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 15min

What Charlie Kirk’s killing says about America

Geoff Kabaservice, vice president for political studies at the Niskanen Center, delves into the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist, during a university event. He discusses the chilling implications of political violence and its impact on democracy, particularly for public figures in America. The conversation touches on Kirk’s influence among young conservatives, the wider societal consequences of his death, and the troubling normalization of political assassinations in the current climate.
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Sep 10, 2025 • 15min

Why Trump didn’t know about the Qatar bombing

Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, dissects the recent Israeli airstrike in Qatar targeting Hamas leadership and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. He explains the communication breakdown between U.S. and Qatari officials that left Trump in the dark, and analyzes Netanyahu's motivations behind the attack. The conversation also touches on Israel's shifting reputation in the Middle East and the complexities surrounding ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, indicating a daunting path to peace.
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8 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 14min

How Lachlan Murdoch won the succession fight

Join Paddy Manning, a journalist and author of 'The Successor', as he unravels the dramatic succession battle within the Murdoch family. Discover how Rupert Murdoch's recent decision to hand control of his media empire to Lachlan reshapes the media landscape. Manning reveals the intense family dynamics and legal battles among Rupert's children, exploring their contrasting ideologies and the financial stakes involved. With Lachlan at the helm, what does the future hold for the Murdoch legacy in an evolving media environment?
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13 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 19min

Life sentence for mushroom killer Erin Patterson

Dr. Xanthe Mallett, an Associate Professor of Criminology at Central Queensland University, discusses the haunting case of Erin Patterson, who received multiple life sentences for poisoning three dinner guests. Mallett analyzes the court's unprecedented proceedings and the psychological impacts of solitary confinement on high-profile inmates. The episode also highlights the emotional fallout for victims' families and the chilling societal fascination with betrayal in murder cases, painting a stark picture of justice and its complexities.
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Sep 7, 2025 • 16min

Will Trump kick-start a seabed mining bonanza?

Mark Willacy, a Four Corners reporter, dives into the burgeoning world of seabed mining, sparked by Donald Trump's push for deep-sea resource extraction. He reveals how polymetallic nodules could play a crucial role in the green energy transition, while also exposing the environmental risks and legal dilemmas involved. Willacy discusses the inspiring story of an individual who transitioned from dairy farming to leading this mining initiative. The geopolitical implications and impacts on Pacific nations add layers of complexity to this underwater gold rush.
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Sep 4, 2025 • 15min

Trump’s 'gaudy' golden White House

Mona Charen, a policy editor at The Bulwark and former White House staffer, dives into Donald Trump's extravagant renovations at the White House. She discusses how Trump’s real estate background influences his opulent vision for the Oval Office and the Rose Garden. Charen highlights the lack of oversight during these modifications and the broader implications for democracy. The podcast also explores mixed public reactions to Trump's lavish style and the potential legacy of his changes for future administrations.

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