The Explanation

Demolition work has begun on part of the White House to make way for President Trump's new ballroom, as US government remains shut down. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda discuss Trump's decision to remodel the White House while the Senate remains deadlocked on funding the federal government. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics, in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Hamas will lay down its weapons in Gaza, looks at how other jihadist groups have responded to the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and explores how Ukraine's approach to the war with Russia might change in the wake of the latest row with President Trump. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

New attention on Prince Andrew has reopened debate about how the Royal Family is covered by the media. Following confirmation that he will no longer use his titles and the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir, journalists are reassessing the balance between scrutiny, access and tradition. Simon McCoy, journalist and broadcaster, Robert Hardman, royal biographer, and Emily Andrews, former royal correspondent for The Sun, share professional insight into how stories about the royals are shaped. Also, Pulitzer Prize-winning foreign correspondent Paul Salopek describes his 12-year “Out of Eden Walk,” a 16,000-mile reporting journey retracing humanity's ancient migration routes. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical co-ordinator: Chris Brown Sound engineer: Robin Schroder

Medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy are proven to be highly effective for weight management. They are also increasingly being found to treat other conditions and reduce the risk of disease, promising health benefits far beyond the treatment of obesity. But these drugs generally need to be continued for weight loss to be maintained, so there are big questions to be answered about their use and significant challenges to overcome around access and availability. In front of a live audience at Wellcome Collection in London, Claudia and her guests explore the potential and negatives of weight loss injections and ask whether they really are the next wonder drug.

Donald Trump claims to have ended eight wars in eight months. Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda unpack President Trump's claims and look at what is happening on the ground. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses who will actually be running Gaza in the wake of the ceasefire there, examines the escalating trade war between China and the United States, and looks at the recent spate of cyber-attacks targeting western companies.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

As a ceasefire takes hold in Gaza, attention has turned to how the story itself is being covered and interpreted. From live reporting in Tel Aviv to verifying information from inside Gaza, journalists describe the pressures of working amid uncertainty and political tension. Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy reflects on the choices behind frontline coverage and the balance between speed and accuracy. Bel Trew, chief international correspondent at The Independent, outlines how she gathers and checks information when access to Gaza remains blocked. Professor Lee Edwards of the London School of Economics examines how global outlets have framed recent events and whether context and history are being lost in the headlines.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Chris Brown Sound: Chris Ablakwa

The US Supreme Court begins its new term with a docket full of potentially significant cases that could define the scope of Donald Trump's presidential authority - and the prospect of more to come. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse how the Supreme Court can reshape Trump's powers. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether two years on from the 7 October attacks peace in Gaza is now possible, looks at what it's like for western journalists to report from Russia, and examines the consequences of UN sanctions being reimposed on Iran.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

Steve Rosenberg, BBC News Russia editor, is one of the few Western reporters still based in Moscow. He talks about working under tight controls, renewing short visas and facing limits on access while trying to report facts from inside the country. His years of steady reporting have now earned him the Charles Wheeler Award for Broadcast Journalism. Also on the show, Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, explains how the magazine is turning to video with its new series The Economist Insider. The project shows editors debating major issues and gives viewers a sense of how the publication works behind the scenes. And Victoria Beckham has a new series on Netflix. Public-relations specialist Farzana Baduel, founder of Curzon PR, assesses the strategy behind “authorised access” documentaries and how they can help celebrities manage their image.Presenters: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Elena Angelides Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: James Cherry Sound: Robin Schroder

President Trump is expanding his powers over the federal workforce and flexing his muscles in front of generals. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse the consequences of the government shutdown, and what the new guidelines for the US Army could mean for America's military power. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle and one of the world's richest men, is becoming a major force in media. His son David runs Skydance, which recently took over Paramount and is now interested in Warner Bros Discovery. Ellison is also linked to a bid for TikTok in the US. These moves raise questions about whether his wealth and political ties influence media ownership. James Warrington, Media and Telecoms Editor at The Telegraph, explains Ellison's growing role in global media and the concerns around it.Ellison's donations to Tony Blair's Institute for Global Change and Oracle's possible role in the UK's digital ID plans have also drawn attention. Some online groups have connected these facts to conspiracy theories about governments wanting more control over people's lives. Dr Matthew Sweet, broadcaster and cultural historian, explains how ideas like this can spread from small corners of the internet into mainstream news.US President Donald Trump recently posted and deleted an AI-generated video promoting “med beds,” a conspiracy theory claiming that secret technology can cure any illness. The idea started in QAnon groups during the pandemic and has spread across Facebook, YouTube and Telegram. Dr Robert Topinka, Senior Lecturer at Birkbeck University, describes how such claims grow online and why they sometimes reach powerful politicians.The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, a tradition in British sport since the 1800s, will no longer be shown on the BBC. Channel 4 has signed a five-year deal to broadcast the race starting in 2026. Siobhan Cassidy, Chair of the Boat Race Company, outlines why the deal was made, while Pete Andrews, Head of Sport at Channel 4, explains how the broadcaster hopes to develop the event.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Callum McLean

From late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel's suspension to an unprecedented Pentagon memo - where is the line between criticism and censorship?On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyze how the Trump administration is taking on its critics and tries to control the narratives in the media. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what effect the recognition of Palestine as a state might have, examines whether Syria is back in the international fold, and looks at the latest restrictions that the Taliban have introduced in Afghanistan.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

In the US, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was taken off air after making remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The broadcasting regulator, the FCC, warned stations about continuing to air his show. Donald Trump supported the suspension, but Disney, which owns ABC, later decided to bring the show back. Brian Stelter, Chief Media Analyst at CNN, looks at what this means for the relationship between politicians, broadcasters and entertainers. A BBC investigation has revealed new details about how the government is using hotels to house migrants. The Home Secretary has ordered an urgent review after concerns were raised about taxis being used to move asylum seekers and the conditions inside the hotels, which are currently home to around 32,000 people. BBC journalist Sue Mitchell shares what she found while reporting inside the hotels and the difficulties of recording people's experiences. A new ITV drama called The Hack tells the story of phone hacking by the News of the World, Rupert Murdoch's tabloid newspaper, which subsequently shut down because of the scandal. Executive producer Patrick Spence explains the choices made when dramatising real events and his motivation.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Chris Ablakwa

President Trump's visit to the UK tests Sir Keir Starmer's handling of the “special relationship” - but the bigger test comes next, at the UN General Assembly.On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr unpack Trump's foreign relations and relationships, and how the world adapts to his style.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the relationship between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump, analyses whether Israel's strike on Qatar has played into Iran's hands, and looks at the widening split between Europe and the United States over Israel and Gaza. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

The killing of US conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has raised questions about how the media should report on controversial figures while still showing respect to victims and their families. Meanwhile in London, more than one hundred thousand people joined the Unite the Kingdom rally, where Elon Musk spoke by video link. The event has sparked fresh debate about whether using terms like “far right” helps explain what happened or risks pushing audiences away. LBC's James O'Brien, Talk TV's Isabel Oakeshott and political commentator Guto Harri give their views on the challenges facing journalism when reporting on divisive stories.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Luke Sweeney Sound: Nathan Chamberlain

The killing of Charlie Kirk triggers shockwaves through the US, sparking grief, anger, and debate over politics, political violence and America's future.On this live episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr discuss the killing of Charlie Kirk, reaction from across the political divide, and what it signals about the depth of polarization in the US.Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the latest political crisis in France is a sign of long-term decline, examines the reasons for the simmering tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, and looks at the ways in which Russia is trying to win over opinion around the world.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

Super Mario Bros reaches its 40th anniversary. First released in 1985, the Nintendo title redefined video game design and propelled Mario from a supporting character into a global icon. Keza MacDonald, video games editor at The Guardian and author of a forthcoming book on Nintendo, outlines its creation and cultural significance. In Russia, a state-approved messaging service called Max has been made mandatory on all new devices, while WhatsApp and Telegram face restrictions. Eva Hartog, Russia reporter at Politico Europe, considers the impact on digital freedoms and journalism. In Nepal, a ban on 26 major social media platforms led to widespread protests and the resignation of the Prime Minister before the restrictions were reversed. Dr Nayana Prakash, Research Fellow at Chatham House, assesses what this reveals about state approaches to online platforms. A resolution has been reached in the Murdoch family's long-running succession dispute. Claire Atkinson, media reporter and founder of the The Media Mix newsletter, explains the background to the family trust and what the decision could mean for the company's future direction.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Trump enters a new political season as Congress returns from its summer recess. Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry, and Courtney Subramanian look at challenges to his agenda. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

France's Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has called a parliamentary confidence vote after his proposals to abolish two public holidays triggered widespread opposition. The unrest has coincided with the emergence of a grassroots movement, ‘Bloquons Tout', which began on messaging apps and is now pushing its message through social media. BBC News Paris Correspondent Hugh Schofield assesses how French media outlets are reporting the crisis, while Paola Sedda, associate professor of Information and Communication Sciences at the University of Lille, examines the protesters' tactics and their uneasy relationship with journalists.American Vogue has appointed Chloe Malle as its new head of editorial content, with Anna Wintour remaining in a senior role at Condé Nast. Michael Grynbaum, media correspondent at The New York Times, explains what the change signals for the future of glossy magazines.And a new book revisits the career of George Ward Price, the Daily Mail correspondent who became known for his extraordinary access to Adolf Hitler in the 1930s. Historian Richard Evans, author of Interviewing Hitler, tells his story.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Rosie Strawbridge Technical Coordinator: Craig Johnson Sound: Mike Campbell

Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard in Washington DC draws equal parts praise and concern. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Courtney Subramanian examine crime data, community reactions, and the politics behind the move. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

A number of publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have withdrawn articles initially attributed to a freelance journalist named Margaux Blanchard. Press Gazette first reported the concerns after an editor flagged a suspicious pitch. The true identity of the writer and whether AI authored the pieces remain unclear. Jacob Furedi, editor of Dispatch, and Dr Glenda Cooper, Head of Journalism at City St George's, University of London, discuss.The new football season arrives alongside changes in coverage. Two YouTube channels - The Overlap and That's Football - have secured live UK rights to show some Bundesliga matches. Minal Modha, Head of Sport Media Rights at Ampere Analysis, explains the strategy. Graham Scott, columnist at Telegraph Sport, on pivoting to journalism from his previous role as a Premier League referee. Parenthood is the latest BBC wildlife series narrated by David Attenborough. It was filmed across 23 countries and six continents, following how animals raise their young. Jeff Wilson, series producer and director at Silverback Films, reveals how it was made.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant producer: Martha Owen Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Sound: Holly Palmer Technical co-ordinator: James Cherry

Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for ending several international conflicts and continues to present himself as a global peacemaker. Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr examine the president's efforts to broker deals in Ukraine and Gaza, his broader foreign policy approach, and how these initiatives align with his stated ambition to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington for talks with Donald Trump and other European leaders. The timing coincided with Anushka Asthana's first day as US editor for Channel 4 News, who describes her early impressions of covering the American political landscape. Meanwhile, independent Russian broadcaster TV Rain, operating in exile from Amsterdam, also reported intensively on the Washington meetings. Ekaterina Kotrikadze, news director and anchor, TV Rain, explains how the organisation continues to reach audiences under pressure of censorship and surveillance. The Edinburgh TV Festival has been taking place this week, and brings together industry voices to assess the future of television in the UK and beyond. Camilla Lewis, creative director, Curve Media, and Matt Belloni, co-founder, Puck, provide their perspectives on where money, audiences and creative opportunities are moving. Hedge fund Hunterbrook is experimenting with an unusual model for the news business: publishing investigative journalism while also using its findings to guide investment decisions. Sam Koppelman, co-founder, Hunterbrook, outlines how the company separates editorial and financial operations while aiming to sustain investigative reporting. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen

Donald Trump will not be on the ballot in next year's midterm elections, but his policies will be put to the electoral test. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr explore how the President's latest actions on immigration and economy could shape Latino voter behaviour in the 2026 midterms. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: John Ringer Editor: Adrian Chiculita

Four Al Jazeera journalists and two freelance journalists were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, prompting renewed scrutiny of press freedoms and the treatment of reporters in conflict zones. Israel claims one of the journalists, Anas al-Sharif, was affiliated with Hamas. Media rights groups have rejected the allegation, and questions remain about access restrictions and the role of freelancers. Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists, and Oren Persico, staff writer at Israeli outlet Seventh Eye discuss the risks and constraints facing journalists in Gaza and how the story is framed in Israeli media.An AI-generated avatar of Joaquin Oliver, a teenager killed in the 2018 Parkland school shooting, has been interviewed by the former CNN anchor Jim Acosta. The avatar was created by Joaquin's parents to raise awareness about gun violence. Manuel Oliver, co-founder of Change the Ref, and Claire Leibowicz, Head of the AI and Media Integrity Program at the Partnership on AI, explain how the avatar was made and the editorial implications of using avatars in journalism.The i Paper's housing correspondent Vicky Spratt broke the story that led to the resignation of a UK government minister – a story which came from her social media platform. She reflects on how digital platforms have changed the way journalists can source and share their work.Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Dan Hardoon Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Sarlota Hadroj Touzimska

From Texas walkouts to TikTok-savvy governors, Democrats are embracing a bold new playbook to reshape America's political map. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann Jr, and CBS News' Caitlin Huey-Burns ask whether this more aggressive approach will work. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Stefano Fasano Editor: Adrian Chiculita

A new Taiwanese television series depicts a fictional Chinese military invasion. Zero Day Attack has prompted debate over censorship, political influence and media independence. Chris Buckley, China and Taiwan correspondent for the New York Times, outlines the production's background and the reaction it has provoked.A whistleblower leak of internal Tesla documents has led to renewed scrutiny of the electric carmaker's safety record and corporate culture. The files include thousands of alleged customer complaints and were used to inform a new book, The Tesla Files, by investigative journalist Sönke Iwersen. He describes the reporting process and the challenges of handling sensitive data.The UK government has held Downing Street's first official reception for content creators. TikTok creator Gabriel Nussbaum and Politics Home reporter Zoe Crowther discuss the event, how governments can engage influencers, and the broader implications for transparency and political journalism.Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Dan Hardoon Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Samuel Iyiola Sound: Rohan Madison

President Trump continues to air a broad set of grievances, from the Biden administration and Barack Obama to the media, autopens, and even windmills or paper straws. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann Jr trace the themes behind Donald Trump's most vocal complaints. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Stefano Fasano Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

A growing concern among digital commentators is whether artificial intelligence is irreversibly distorting the internet. Once a conspiracy, dead internet theory now reflects widespread anxiety about AI-generated content and its impact on online authenticity. AI-written articles, spam-like social posts and misinformation have contributed to fears that human-created content is being overwhelmed. Alex Hern, AI writer at The Economist, explains how user behaviour mimicking algorithms helped the idea take root, while Isis Blachez from NewsGuard outlines how Russian-linked sites are laundering propaganda to influence AI outputs. Mark Graham, Director of the Wayback Machine at the Internet Archive, describes how the organisation is adapting its efforts to preserve online content in a post-AI era. Christiane Amanpour, CNN's Chief International Anchor, reflects on changes to the news industry since she began reporting during the first Gulf War. From accusations of “fake news” by political leaders to the challenges of reporting on the Gaza conflict amid restrictions on access, she describes unprecedented pressures on international journalism. Amanpour also discusses her new foreign affairs podcast co-hosted with her ex-husband and former US diplomat James Rubin, The Ex Files. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen

From tariff threats and deals to controversial immigration policies and rising global tensions, Donald Trump's first six months back in the White House have been anything but quiet. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann Jr. explore the highs and lows of the first months of Trump's second term and try to predict what lies ahead.Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Stefano FasanoEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

In Epping, just outside London, protests have taken place near a hotel housing asylum seekers. While mainstream news outlets reported the story, a video filmed by YouTuber Wesley Winter attracted hundreds of thousands of views online. His presence - and the reaction to other journalists on the ground - has reignited debate over who the public trusts to shape stories like these. Wesley Winter reflects on how he works and what drives his audience.Agence France-Presse says its journalists in Gaza are now facing starvation. The agency is working to evacuate remaining freelancers and their families as conditions continue to deteriorate. Phil Chetwynd, AFP's Global News Director, describes what his reporters are telling him from the ground - and what might be lost if they are forced to stop.In Rome, the Vatican is hosting a global gathering of Catholic influencers - from priests and nuns to lay creators with large digital followings. The Church's media strategy dates back a century, but the rise of online evangelisation presents new opportunities and risks. Dr Justin Tackett, a philosopher at North Carolina State University, and Mary-Aoife Ong, co-director of Carlo Acutis Youth Ireland, discuss.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Martha Owen and Emily Channon Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Samuel Iyiola Sound: Robin Schroder

Under mounting pressure from his own base, US President Donald Trump says he has ordered the Justice Department to release additional documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.Pro-MAGA supporters and media outlets are now divided, torn between a grassroots push for transparency and a party leader eager to move on. Trump has even turned on his own allies, declaring that “some stupid Republicans, some foolish Republicans, have fallen into the net.”On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann Jr explore what it means to be MAGA today and how the Epstein files have unexpectedly exposed deep fractures within Trump's political base.Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Stefano Fasano Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

A legal order known as a superinjunction prevented UK media from reporting a government data breach that exposed nearly 19,000 Afghans who had applied to relocate after the Taliban takeover. Larisa Brown, Defence Editor at The Times, recounts the legal constraints she faced and the broader implications for press freedom. A new ITV format blends natural history with reality TV by placing celebrities in shark-infested waters. Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters was produced by Plimsoll Productions. Creative Director Andrea Jackson outlines the development process. This year's Tour de France marks the final edition available on free-to-air television in the UK before coverage moves behind a paywall. Rouleur journalist Rachel Jary reports from Toulouse on life inside the media zone, while Chris Boardman - Olympic gold medallist, commentator and now England's Active Travel Commissioner - reflects on how cycling is covered and the visibility challenges it faces.In regard to the story on the Tour de France we need to point out that the viewing figures quoted by Chris Boardman cannot be verified with TNT.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producers: Martha Owen and Emily Channon

Oasis returned to the stage in Cardiff for the first time in over a decade, drawing both fan excitement and media access concerns. While audience members were able to livestream from inside the venue, accredited press photographers faced time-limited licensing agreements on how long their images could be used. Andy Moger from the News Media Coalition and Metro's Danni Scott discuss the band's approach. During President Macron's state visit to the UK, attention turned to the media's role in covering migrant crossings of the English Channel. A report by the BBC captured footage of French police deflating an inflatable boat on a beach in northern France. Reporter Andrew Harding gives the background to his story and Catherine Norris Trent from France 24 explains what coverage the issue gets in the French press. There is growing interest in how fact-checking is approached within the book publishing sector after claims about a best-selling book were made by The Observer newspaper last week. Heloise Wood of The Bookseller explains why in publishing, legal responsibility usually rests with the authors themselves. Presenters: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses US President Donald Trump's approach to foreign policy in his second term, examines reaction in Israel to the country's conflict with Iran, and looks at the controversial new project to create artificial human DNA from scratch.

The BBC's decision not to broadcast a Gaza war documentary, later picked up by Channel 4, has prompted scrutiny over its editorial standards. The film, made by Basement Films, features testimony from medical staff in Gaza. Former Channel 4 executive Dorothy Byrne critiques the BBC's stance. A live-streamed Glastonbury performance by punk band Bob Vylan included chants that Keir Starmer called "appalling hate speech", leading to a BBC apology for not halting the stream sooner. Chris Banatvala, a former Ofcom head of standards, raises questions about the effectiveness of the BBC's editorial oversight in live broadcasting situations. The complexity of reporting on the Israel-Gaza conflict while managing personal identity is addressed by BBC journalist Tim Franks. Reflecting on his experience as a Jewish former Middle East correspondent, Franks considers public assumptions about bias and the pressure on journalists to separate identity from reporting. He also discusses themes from his new book, The Lines We Draw. Formula 1 celebrates 75 years, but footage from its first three decades remains largely unseen. Broadcaster Steve Rider is spearheading efforts to recover and digitise this early archive, while journalist Rebecca Clancy reports on the sport's global strategy and expanding social media presence. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant producer: Emily Channon

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the Iranian regime has successfully weathered the storm caused by the attacks by Israel and the United States, examines the state of the NATO alliance, and looks at the ferocious gangland culture of Cape Town in South Africa.

Iranian authorities are accused of targeting journalists at BBC Persian by intimidating their family members in Iran. Correspondent Behrang Tajdin outlines the psychological toll, allegations of harassment and surveillance in London, and the broader campaign affecting relatives of BBC staff, which the National Union of Journalists has called “proxy punishment.” Hong Kong's diminishing press freedom is starkly represented by the case of Jimmy Lai, the founder of Apple Daily. The pro-democracy paper was shut down after raids and arrests under a national security law. Sebastien Lai describes his father's continued solitary confinement and the implications for the rule of law in Hong Kong. Netflix, known for revolutionising streaming, has announced a surprising shift: live TV channels in France via a partnership with TF1. Minal Modha, from Ampere Analysis, explains why France's strong preference for linear TV and local content prompted the move. Gossip website Tattle Life has lost a major libel case brought by a Northern Irish couple. The site's anonymous founder, Sebastian Bond, has been unmasked. Persephone Bridgman Baker, partner at Carter-Ruck, discusses how the case brings attention to how anonymous online commentary can cross into harassment. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant producers: Lucy Wai and Emily Channon