The Bunker – News without the nonsense

Dr. Casey Burgat, Director of the Legislative Affairs program at George Washington University, dives into the complexities of Congressional power dynamics in the age of Trump. He discusses the Republican House's influence on checks and balances and the Senate's critical role in presidential nominations. The paradox of recess appointments and their impact on Congressional authority is also explored. Burgat highlights the challenges of political loyalty and transparency within a polarized system, emphasizing the need for reforms to ensure accountability.

Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent at The Economist and author of "Bibi," dives into the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict and Trump's unpredictable role in it. He assesses how Trump's potential return to power could disrupt the status quo in Gaza, offering a fresh perspective on Netanyahu's hard-right coalition. The discussion also touches on rising anti-Semitism and its implications for global Jewish communities, and the internal strife in Israeli society post-Netanyahu, exploring the divisions between secular and religious groups.

• Get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for The Bunker in our Black Friday sale. The perfect gift to ask for!Elon Musk is the new head of DOGE – the Department of Government Efficiency – alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, because two people doing one job is very efficient. But despite its fancy name, which bolsters its status immensely, is this idea actually anything new? And will this pitch to run the US government like a business work this time out? Zing Tsjeng speaks to Andrew Rudalevige, professor of government at Bowdoin College, about the Tesla boss’s big ideas and whether they will work whatsoever. • “There are a couple of different aims. One is to give Musk something to do and keep him out of trouble – without having to give him a real job in government.” • “I think he wants a bigger state in the things he can control and a smaller state on things that don’t affect him. Everyone thinks government spending that isn’t on them is wasteful.” • “You have things that are done in government because private companies will not do them.”We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.www.patreon.com/bunkercast  Written and presented by Zing Tsjeng. Audio production: Tom Taylor. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve Smith, the Executive Director of Oxford Net Zero and CO2RE, dives into the complex world of carbon capture technology. He discusses its mechanisms and the essential chemicals like amines involved in capturing emissions. The conversation addresses the ongoing debates about the effectiveness and costs of carbon capture, examining if it's merely a way for major polluters to maintain the status quo. Smith also highlights the evolution of carbon capture efforts in the UK and the potential for transitioning fossil fuel workers into this emerging field.

Sana Khareghani, a leading AI policy expert and former Chair of the UK's Office for AI, discusses the potential for London to become the next global AI hub. She explores the challenges posed by Silicon Valley's dominance and evolving U.S. regulations. The conversation highlights the importance of balanced AI governance that encourages innovation while ensuring safety. Khareghani also addresses workforce engagement in AI and the ethical considerations of rapid growth, calling for a reflective approach to technology development.

The decline of Twitter sparks a discussion on social media's shifting landscape, notably the rise of BlueSky. Elon Musk's bromance with Trump is explored, alongside the political implications of their partnership. The UK-China relations at the G20 summit highlight trade strategies and geopolitical concerns. The podcast delves into Ukraine's complex situation amid global conflicts, touching on Trump’s potential isolationism and its economic repercussions. Insights on the Middle East showcase how Trump's policies affect the Israel-Hamas dynamics, underlining his unpredictable influence.

David Litt, a former speechwriter for Barack Obama and current television writer, joins to explore the intriguing parallels between Tony Soprano and Donald Trump. They dive into how both figures embody egomania, manipulation, and the pursuit of power, highlighting their shared inadequacies and resentments. The discussion expands to racial themes and loyalty dynamics in families, showcasing how 'The Sopranos' offers insights into today’s political landscape. Litt’s keen analysis makes it clear: understanding the show sheds light on the complexities of modern leadership.

Freeports! They were going to be a huge Brexit benefit (they weren’t). Boris Johnson said we couldn’t have them while we were in the EU (he was lying). Labour was going to announce more in the latest Budget and then… didn’t (“cock up in the comms,” it says here). But what are they? Do tax-free zones really benefit deprived areas? Or are they havens for money-laundering and tax avoidance?  Trade expert Dmitry Grozoubinski explains the long history and cloudy future of special economic zones to Andrew Harrison.  • Order Dmitry’s Why Politicians Lie About Trade. You’ll help fund The Bunker by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees also help support independent bookshops. • We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.  www.patreon.com/bunkercastPresented by Group Editor Andrew Harrison. Produced by Liam Tait. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Managing Editor Jacob Jarvis. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pen Vogler, an expert on food’s political history and author of 'Stuffed', joins to delve into the intriguing intersection of politics and our plates. The discussion uncovers why some men shy away from fruits like strawberries, and how class, tradition, and innovation shape food preferences. Vogler highlights the impact of rationing and advertising on modern eating habits, critiques the inequities in food distribution, and emphasizes the role of responsibility in feeding future generations amidst changing perceptions.

Bernard Hogan-Howe, former Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, engages in a deep dive into the controversial acquittal of the officer involved in the shooting of Chris Kaba. He discusses the implications of this case on armed policing and public trust, raising critical questions about systemic racism within law enforcement. The conversation also explores the challenges police face in high-pressure situations and the potential impact on officer willingness to serve in firearms roles. Hogan-Howe navigates a landscape of accountability, community relations, and the need for reform.