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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Are Hasan Piker’s controversial views a help or a hindrance for the Democrats this midterms? He’s arguably America’s most high-profile left-wing influencer but he’s not loved by all Democrats. He made his name streaming on Twitch and helped propel Abdul El-Sayed as the Democrat candidate in Michigan for the state’s all important Senate seat. Justin’s been speaking to Hasan Piker about comments he’s made in the past which are now being used by Republicans on the campaign trail. And with less than two weeks to go, the race for the state’s open seat is close, and could help decide who controls the US Senate. Sarah’s there and joins Justin and Marianna to discuss the final debate between the Democratic and Republican candidates in Michigan, and whether Democrats can win back voters who backed Donald Trump in 2024. HOSTS - Sarah Smith, US North America Editor - Justin Webb, BBC Radio 4 Presenter - Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent GUEST: - Hasan Piker, political commentator and…

Epizody

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We speak to Hasan Piker, the socialist influencer… is he a liability for the Democrats?

Are Hasan Piker’s controversial views a help or a hindrance for the Democrats this midterms? He’s arguably America’s most high-profile left-wing influencer but he’s not loved by all Democrats. He made his name streaming on Twitch and helped propel Abdul El-Sayed as the Democrat candidate in Michigan for the state’s all important Senate seat. Justin’s been speaking to Hasan Piker about comments he’s made in the past which are now being used by Republicans on the campaign trail. And with less than two weeks to go, the race for the state’s open seat is close, and could help decide who controls the US Senate. Sarah’s there and joins Justin and Marianna to discuss the final debate between the Democratic and Republican candidates in Michigan, and whether Democrats can win back voters who backed Donald Trump in 2024. HOSTS - Sarah Smith, US North America Editor - Justin Webb, BBC Radio 4 Presenter - Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent GUEST: - Hasan Piker, political commentator and…

23 říj. 2026
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Can Trump’s $400 million save Republicans at the midterms?

The hosts analyze early voting trends in the US midterms, noting high enthusiasm among Democratic, Hispanic, and Black voters, alongside Republican strategies to mobilize their base through Donald Trump's campaigning in Kansas. The discussion further examines Republican campaign spending, the impact of MAGA PAC, and controversial attack ads in Ohio. Additionally, the episode marks the return of The Interface from its summer break, introducing a new season and co-host while recapping recent news trends.

21 říj. 2026
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Americanswers! How far will Trump go in siding with Putin against Ukraine?

The hosts examine recent political developments within the Trump administration, including Donald Trump's decision to waive certain Russian sanctions and the implications for upcoming midterm elections. The discussion covers internal White House dynamics, specifically focusing on personnel stability following the brief tenure of Katie Zakaria and potential instability surrounding Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The episode also explores Republican midterm strategies, analyzing shifts in campaign finance toward defensive battlegrounds and the use of organic social media content. Finally, the hosts discuss Donald Trump's intensive travel schedule, his impact on voters, and the potential political risks regarding the acceptance of election results.

19 říj. 2026
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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 říj. 2026
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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 říj. 2026