Americast

Americast

Insight and analysis on what's happening inside Donald Trump's White House. Podcast episodes Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Watch on iPlayer here: https://bbc.in/4j3DjKy. Each week we provide audiences with the best analysis from across the BBC, with on-the-ground observations and big picture insights about the stories which are defining America right now. The podcast is hosted by trusted BBC journalists including the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, BBC Radio 4 presenter, Justin Webb, the BBC’s social media investigation correspondent, Marianna Spring, and BBC North America correspondent, Anthony Zurcher. As well as political analysis, we also specialise in social media. Each week Marianna Spring brings listeners the latest updates from the BBC’s Undercover Voters, our award-winning investigation into the content that is recommended to US voters on social media. The team is also joined by special guests each week. Podcasts are published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. As well as being a podcast, we are also available every Friday on BBC Radio 4 and every Saturday on the BBC World Service. Oh, and you can now watch us on YouTube and on iPlayer: https://bbc.in/4j3DjKy.

Also, you can listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say ‘”Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers. Every Monday we answer your questions on Americanswers, with some help from our friends, including BBC Radio 5 Live's Matt Chorley. Got a question or a comment? Get in touch with us on email at Americast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

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Sažetak epizode

This episode of AmeriCast explores the shifting dynamics of the Latino vote in the United States, focusing on how economic concerns and immigration enforcement policies impact Republican and Democratic strategies. The discussion highlights the non-homogeneous nature of the Latino electorate and examines specific political battles in Texas between candidates James Tallarico and Ken Paxton. Republican strategist Mike Madrid and Democratic strategist Chuck Rocha discuss a 'de-alignment' from both major parties driven by economic concerns. They argue that Latino voters are increasingly driven by pocketbook issues rather than cultural or racial identity, making them a volatile and influential swing demographic in upcoming congressional races.

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I think that's the first thing to remember is that it's not homogenous. It's not one block that votes on the same issues across the board.

00:03:46 · The speaker emphasizes that the Latino community consists of diverse individuals with varying priorities based on their national origins.

It's a de-alignment. It's not a realignment.

00:17:41 · Mike Madrid clarifies that Latinos are not moving toward the Republican party, but rather moving away from both existing parties.

Latinos are the least racially polarized group in America, and they're the least focused on cultural issues.

00:18:13 · The speaker highlights that economic 'pocketbook' issues are more significant to Latino voters than the cultural wars dominating other demographics.

This is not a right-left development. This is a populist, emergent, working-class movement.

00:26:26 · The speakers argue that the current shift in Latino voting patterns represents a new class-based political movement rather than a partisan one.

This was a complete self-owned. This was a complete disastrous policy.

00:36:33 · Mike Madrid describes the Republican approach to immigration as a political blunder that has alienated potential voters.

Epizode

659-

Are Latino voters turning on Trump?

This episode of AmeriCast explores the shifting dynamics of the Latino vote in the United States, focusing on how economic concerns and immigration enforcement policies impact Republican and Democratic strategies. The discussion highlights the non-homogeneous nature of the Latino electorate and examines specific political battles in Texas between candidates James Tallarico and Ken Paxton. Republican strategist Mike Madrid and Democratic strategist Chuck Rocha discuss a 'de-alignment' from both major parties driven by economic concerns. They argue that Latino voters are increasingly driven by pocketbook issues rather than cultural or racial identity, making them a volatile and influential swing demographic in upcoming congressional races.

15 lis 2026
658-

Your US Midterm Election Guide (A Global News Podcast collab)

In this special edition of AmeriCast, BBC journalists discuss the fundamentals of U.S. midterm elections and their significance in determining control of Congress. The episode covers the mechanics of congressional elections, the concept of being an informed voter amidst misinformation, and the practice of gerrymandering. The hosts also explore various American political terms, including 'stump speeches,' the differences between PACs, super PACs, and lobbyists, and the impact of 'dark money.' Additionally, the discussion examines the perception of Washington D.C. elites as being out of touch with the rest of the country and how political figures use an 'outsider' persona to appeal to voters.

14 lis 2026
657-

Americanswers! Will Trump really livestream a firing squad execution?

This episode examines controversial US policy proposals and shifting geopolitical dynamics. The panel discusses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's plan to live-stream the execution of Nidal Hassan, alongside the political implications of Donald Trump's deal to import Russian diesel despite existing sanctions. The discussion further explores Republican unease regarding oil policy, the mechanics of modern digital influence operations via bot farms, and Democratic strategies for the upcoming midterms. Finally, the episode analyzes Marco Rubio's recent speech in Athens, focusing on his critiques of European identity and potential future political partnerships within the Republican party.

12 lis 2026
656-

Are the Democrats heading for a midterms landslide?

This episode of AmeriCast explores the shifting political landscape ahead of the midterm elections, examining recent polling that suggests Democrats may perform unexpectedly well in traditionally Republican states like Texas and Kansas. The discussion delves into how economic pressures from inflation and tariffs, alongside candidate quality, are impacting voters in key states like Iowa. Featuring insights from pollster John Anzalone, the conversation analyzes the decline in branding for both major political parties and the emergence of 'double haters' who may drive ticket-splitting behavior. The episode also concludes with previews of upcoming podcast investigations into topics ranging from the Facebook whistleblower to historical technological shifts.

09 lis 2026
655-

Did Trump really say Iran could “take out” Los Angeles?

This episode of AmeriCast examines the controversial 'State of the Force' speech by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, focusing on his significant reductions in military leadership and his emphasis on a 'warrior ethos.' The discussion explores the implications of his policies regarding diversity, masculinity, and religious influence within the Pentagon under the Trump administration. The episode also covers the political pressures facing Hegseth, including an impeachment effort led by Congressman Thomas Massie regarding military involvement in Iran. Additionally, the hosts analyze Donald Trump's controversial remarks concerning potential strikes on California cities and the resulting friction with Governor Gavin Newsom.

07 lis 2026