Full Story

Chris Bowen, Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, dives into the contentious climate debate in parliament. He discusses the contrasting commitments of major parties and the free solar power scheme designed to boost renewable energy adoption. Bowen highlights the international implications of U.S. politics on climate efforts, the strategic benefits of hosting COP meetings, and the Coalition's internal strife over net zero goals. He also defends public support for climate action against disinformation and frames decarbonisation as a significant economic opportunity.

Lenore Taylor, Editor of Guardian Australia, discusses the authenticity of Zohran Mamdani’s campaign and its appeal to young voters. Patrick Keneally highlights the internal chaos within the Coalition, particularly regarding net zero pledges, and the barriers for new political styles in Australia. Josephine Tovey shares insights on how Mamdani’s economic messaging could inspire fresh approaches in local politics. The trio analyzes the implications of coalition infighting on climate investment, emphasizing the need for clear policies and potential lessons from Mamdani's success.

Ed Pilkington, Chief Reporter for The Guardian in the US, joins Zohran Mamdani, the historic mayor-elect of New York City. They discuss Mamdani's rapid rise to fame and his unique appeal to young voters through a savvy social media strategy. Mamdani’s bold victory speech challenges national leaders and aims to reshape Democratic priorities. Pilkington analyzes the political implications of Mamdani's win, particularly the need for a focus on affordability as a key message for future campaigns.

Henry Belot, a Senior reporter at The Guardian specializing in corporate governance, dives into the ongoing culture of executive bonuses amidst corporate scandals. He reveals how bonuses often prioritize profits over customer welfare, citing examples from ANZ and Bupa where significant bonuses were paid despite serious misconduct. Belot also highlights the overwhelming trend of ASX200 CEOs still receiving bonuses. He discusses the potential for shareholder activism to push for meaningful change in this troubling pay culture.

David Smith, the Washington DC bureau chief for the Guardian, dives into the Trump administration's plans for a lavish $300 million ballroom while millions face food insecurity due to a government shutdown. He discusses the stark contrast between presidential opulence and American hardship, revealing how this divide may impact political sentiments. Moreover, Smith explores how Trump’s wealth and public image play into cultural attitudes, and whether the Democrats can effectively leverage the backlash against elite extravagance for future reform.

Adam Gabbatt, a New York-based reporter for the Guardian US, and Mehdi Hasan, a political commentator, dive into Zohran Mamdani's meteoric rise in the New York mayoral race. They discuss Mamdani's viral campaign launch and his authentic persona shaped by a unique background. The duo analyzes his progressive platform centered on affordability, innovative grassroots organizing, and overcoming attacks from opponents like Andrew Cuomo. Furthermore, they explore the impact of Mamdani's identity and bold stances on key issues, positioning him as a transformative figure in Democratic politics.

Ben Doherty, a senior reporter at Guardian Australia with deep insights into national security, dives into the protests surrounding Pine Gap, a secretive US-Australian signals intelligence base. He explains the protesters' claims that Pine Gap supports military actions in Gaza, stirring up a wave of renewed activism. Doherty discusses the historical opposition from Indigenous groups, the implications of intelligence-sharing arrangements with Israel, and calls for greater transparency about Pine Gap's activities and Australia's role in global conflicts.

Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks, an author and former Australian public servant, delves into the world of chiefs of staff for powerful leaders in her new book, The Right Hand. She shares amusing anecdotes, like Tony Blair gifting hand-me-down shirts and Jacinda Ardern's love for crime TV. Phoebe discusses the delicate balance chiefs must maintain between influence and accountability, sheds light on the personal burdens of monumental events like 9/11, and highlights how female leaders navigate misogyny while achieving significant policy wins. Her insights reveal the complex dynamics behind the scenes of global power.

Dr. Nayana Prakash, a Chatham House fellow, offers expert insights on the surge of youth-led protests shaking the Global South, spotlighting Nepal as a flashpoint. Young protesters from Nepal, Morocco, and Madagascar share their firsthand experiences and motivations behind the unrest. They discuss the role of social media platforms like TikTok in mobilizing movements and the significance of the One Piece pirate flag as a symbol of anti-corruption. The conversation highlights the broader patterns of dissent and the potential for these movements to influence global politics.

Jonathan Czin, former director for China at the US National Security Council and a Brookings Institution fellow, offers a riveting analysis of Trump's provocative nuclear post just before his meeting with Xi Jinping. He explains the intricate orchestration behind US-China meetings and the significance of Trump's respect toward Xi. Czin also discusses the implications of rare earths and the Taiwan issue, suggesting that the US holds an uneasy ceasefire with China while navigating complex power dynamics.