ABC News Daily

Andrew West, host of the ABC's Religion and Ethics Report, breaks down the election of the first American pope, Leo XIV, and what it means for the Catholic Church. He discusses his Peruvian heritage and the unexpected nature of his selection. The conversation touches on the political implications amidst American conservatism, the complexities of church representation, and the ongoing challenges regarding clergy abuse. West also speculates on the new pope’s leadership journey and his potential bond with American Catholics.

Geoff Kabaservice, vice president for political studies at the Niskanen Center, discusses the fierce showdown between Donald Trump and Harvard University. Trump’s targeting of Harvard over alleged anti-Semitism leads to a heated debate on academic freedom and government pressure. The conversation dives into the historical role of Harvard in American education, the ideological rifts on campus, and the political calculations behind Trump’s executive actions. Kabaservice examines the implications for free speech and the American public's response to elite institutions.

Rachael Brown, an investigative and true crime reporter at ABC, joins to share gripping insights from the mushroom murder trial involving Erin Patterson. The courtroom drama unfolds as sole survivor Ian Wilkinson recounts the deadly lunch that led to three tragic fatalities. Brown reveals the strange absence of motive in the prosecution's case, despite damning evidence of mushroom poisoning. Listeners are drawn into Erin's complex relationships and her chilling culinary passions, making this case a haunting tale of trust turned toxic.

In this engaging discussion, Annabel Crabb, an ABC political journalist, unpacks Peter Dutton's struggle to regain female voters for the Coalition. She highlights the dramatic increase in female MPs, yet points out that fewer than ten will represent the Coalition. Crabb analyzes Labor's successful strategies for women in politics, contrasts them with the Liberal Party's challenges, and delves into systemic issues affecting women's representation. The conversation also touches on how political shifts may influence future leadership dynamics.

Ian Verrender, ABC's Chief Business Correspondent, discusses the Labor Party's ambitious economic plans following their recent victory. He highlights the challenges of inflation, rising wages, and expected interest rate cuts. Verrender also explores how external factors, particularly Trump's policies, could disrupt Labor's strategies. Additionally, he examines the importance of maintaining trade ties with China and the balance needed to navigate domestic fiscal challenges while ensuring economic stability.

Laura Tingle, the insightful political editor for ABC's 7.30 program, delves into the significant Labor victory that reshaped Australia's political landscape. She discusses Peter Dutton's unexpected challenges and his concession speech, highlighting a crisis within the Liberal Party. Tingle analyzes how the Prime Minister's unifying message contrasts with the Coalition's identity struggles and diminished urban presence. With a focus on rebuilding trust, she emphasizes the electorate's evolving expectations during these turbulent times.

Jacob Greber, a political correspondent for the ABC, delves into the significant Labor victory that has solidified Anthony Albanese's role as Prime Minister for a second term. The discussion reveals how Peter Dutton's unexpected losses, including his own seat, reshaped the political landscape. Greber analyzes the evolving voter behavior, the impact of independent candidates, and the challenges facing the Liberal Party in light of this electoral shift. The conversation highlights a potential transformation in governance as voters demand a more inclusive approach.

Antony Green, ABC's chief elections analyst with over 30 years of experience, shares his thoughts on the upcoming 2025 election. He emphasizes the unpredictability of polls and the importance of numbers on election night. The discussion dives into voter preferences, how-to-vote cards, and the evolving engagement of younger voters. Antony also explores the complexities of forming minority governments and encourages voters to respect diverse opinions in a polarized landscape, reinforcing the vital role of democracy.

We’re now in the dying days of the election campaign with the polls suggesting enough Australians will vote Labor to return Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister. While more than four million voters have already cast early ballots, there are 18 million people in all who’ll need to make a choice and so the race isn’t over and there’s still hope for Peter Dutton and the Coalition. Today, political editor for the ABC’s 7.30 program Laura Tingle on how the past five weeks have unfolded and the missteps in the opposition’s campaign. Featured: Laura Tingle, 7.30’s political editor

Listeners have asked us to explain the childcare policies on offer at this election. There’s a crisis in the quality of care, with Four Corners recently revealing alarming cases of mistreatment and even abuse of children. Parents also want to see improvements on childcare affordability and access to places.Today, ABC investigative reporter Adele Ferguson answers your questions about the crisis and whether any party has policies that could fix childcare. Catch our past episodes explaining energy, housing and defence policy, the backstories of the leaders and political donations. Featured: Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative reporter