David Smith

David Smith, Washington bureau chief for The Guardian, provides sharp analysis of Pete Hegseth, a former TV host turned defense secretary. He dissects Hegseth’s bellicose rhetoric, media battles, Christian nationalist framing, and role as a telegenic amplifier rather than strategic leader. The conversation also covers Pentagon culture shifts, press restrictions, and potential effects on troop morale.

This week, Arthur Delaney, Eva McKend, and David Smith discuss the shocking murder of political figure Charlie Kirk and its reverberating effects on American society. They unpack the conflicting political responses to his assassination and the broader implications for gun control debates. The panel also dives into Israel's military actions in Qatar and the escalating tensions in Eastern Europe following drone incursions in Poland. Additionally, they explore France's political upheaval, highlighting how these events shape global dynamics.

David Smith, The Guardian's Washington Bureau Chief, delves into the troubling connections between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He discusses the implications of recent revelations that might alienate Trump's support base. The conversation touches on conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein’s client list and a contentious birthday message that allegedly ties Trump to Epstein. Smith also examines the broader impact on Trump’s political standing as the midterms approach, highlighting the complex relationship between media and power.

David Smith, Washington bureau chief for The Guardian, delves into the repercussions of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. He discusses the stark contrast between Trump’s lavish plans for a new ballroom and the struggles of 42 million Americans facing delayed food aid. With the president focused on ostentatious renovations, Smith highlights the ethical concerns surrounding donor funding, the human cost of the shutdown, and the chilling political ramifications as federal workers face uncertainty.

David Smith, the Washington DC bureau chief for The Guardian, discusses the tragic shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk and its unsettling implications for political violence in the U.S. The conversation highlights the emotional fallout across party lines and the growing concerns around escalating unrest. Smith also addresses the complicated relationship between youth activism, economic pressures, and political discourse, shedding light on the intertwining of gun culture and divisive rhetoric in contemporary America.

Naftali Ben-David, a Senior Political Correspondent for The Washington Post, joins Wendy Benjaminson of Bloomberg News, David Smith from The Guardian, and others to dissect the end of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. They explore the unexpected bipartisan bill passage, implications of new Epstein emails tied to Trump, and ICE operations amidst scrutiny. The global segment shines a light on Maduro's military mobilization in Venezuela and the U.S. naval build-up, highlighting tensions amid geopolitical shifts.

David Smith, The Guardian’s Washington bureau chief who reports on US politics, unpacks how Trump is reshaping culture and memory. He describes name-changing of landmarks and board takeovers. He outlines reviews of museums and monuments and the sidelining of LGBTQ+ and racial narratives. He situates these moves as part of a bid for a lasting, sanitized legacy.

David Smith, the Washington, D.C. Bureau Chief for The Guardian, dives deep into the implications of Stephen Colbert's show cancellation after a celebrated 33-year run. They discuss the financial motives behind CBS's decision, raising eyebrows about potential political influences amid Trump's legal troubles. The conversation also highlights Colbert's critical role in shaping late-night comedy, free speech concerns, and how shifting viewer habits are impacting the late-night landscape, ultimately questioning the future of media in turbulent times.

David Smith, Washington D.C. bureau chief for The Guardian, dives into the politically charged aftermath of the killing of far-right commentator Charlie Kirk. He discusses how the Trump administration has intensified its rhetoric against 'the left' post-shooting. Smith reveals the complexities surrounding the suspect Tyler Robinson, urging skepticism toward official narratives. The conversation also highlights the chilling implications for free speech and the rising threat of political violence in an increasingly polarized America.

David Smith, Washington bureau chief for The Guardian, reports on American politics and major national events. He discusses Trump's sudden shift from a strike deadline to claiming talks with Iran. He covers petrol price spikes in southern states and airport chaos from staffing shortages. He also reflects on the response to the death of the former FBI director and its political fallout.