Podcasts about Liberal Party

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent just said the part Canada does not want on loop: You cannot be in a tit for tat with a country 13 times larger than you are. Watch the clip. Then watch what he said next. On CNBC from the G20 in Asheville, Bessent was asked if America is now in a trade war with Canada. He waved it off. Mark Carney, he said, turned a deal into a political shouting match because it helps Carney and the Liberal Party — not Canadian workers. The United States offered what Bessent called the best trade deal of any country on the globe. Carney walked away at the last minute. Now Ottawa wants to talk toughness while sitting next to an economy an order of magnitude bigger. “We're not at war with Canada. How are we going to be at war with Canada? What, are they going to take their two submarines from the Edmonton Mall and sic them on us?” Pat also covered:  It's SEPTEMBER!

As whispers of the next federal election swirl, one name keeps coming up: Pauline Hanson. Hanson and her party are rapidly rising in popularity. Polling over the last few weeks suggests that the next election might come down to a race between Labor versus One Nation. So – who is Pauline Hanson? And how did we get here? In this two-part series, we talk about the rise, the fall, and resurrection of Pauline Hanson. Her days as a fish and chip shop owner, the letter that got her sacked from the Liberal Party, the criminal trial that put her behind bars, her Dancing with the Stars redemption arc, and the messy fights and fallouts that have plagued One Nation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Davis surprised himself this week by liking not one but two posts from South Australian Liberal politicians, so he called in long-time political commentator Robert Godden and geopolitics expert David Olney to ask a pointed question: is Peter Malinauskas becoming the Liberal Party’s secret weapon, not by helping them, but by driving his own supporters into their arms? The verdict: Jack Batty and Ashton Hurn are operating like grown-ups in a party otherwise described as riddled with “decrepit fossils and weird cultists,” and the conversation turns to whether Malinauskas’s drift from consensus premier to contentious premier is manufacturing the very opening they need, while the Liberals themselves remain too fractured to properly capitalise on it. From there the trio put South Australia’s Health Minister through the wringer, running his saccharine response to a horror day of ambulance ramping through The Adelaide Show’s free Spin Detector tool, which diagnoses the reply as “flooding the zone with warmth” while the union’s four specific claims quietly leave the room. This episode did not include an SA Drink of the Week segment. The conversation closes on the value, or otherwise, of protest, with Robert and David comparing Sunday’s planned Stop the Chop march to the Vietnam moratorium marches and the Arab Spring, before Steve rounds out the episode with the Musical Pilgrimage: his own new ska track, For Pete’s Sake, a “streetwise, maybe slightly embittered” take on politicians who set sail from the people who elected them. No SA Drink Of The Week this week. You can navigate episodes using chapter markers in your podcast app. Not a fan of one segment? You can click next to jump to the next chapter in the show. We’re here to serve! The Adelaide Show Podcast: Awarded Silver for Best Interview Podcast in Australia at the 2021 Australian Podcast Awards and named as Finalist for Best News and Current Affairs Podcast in the 2018 Australian Podcast Awards. And please consider becoming part of our podcast by joining our Inner Circle. It’s an email list. Join it and you might get an email on a Sunday or Monday seeking question ideas, guest ideas and requests for other bits of feedback about YOUR podcast, The Adelaide Show. Email us directly and we’ll add you to the list: podcast@theadelaideshow.com.au If you enjoy the show, please leave us a 5-star review in iTunes or other podcast sites, or buy some great merch from our Red Bubble store – The Adelaide Show Shop. We’d greatly appreciate it. And please talk about us and share our episodes on social media, it really helps build our community. Oh, and here’s our index of all episode in one concisepage. Running Sheet: Is Peter Malinauskas A Liberal Party Asset? 00:00:00 Intro Introduction 00:00:00 SA Drink Of The Week There is no SA Drink Of The Week this week. 00:04:53 Robert Godden and David Olney Is Peter Malinauskas, without meaning to, building the Liberal Party’s next asset? That’s the question Steve Davis put to Robert Godden and David Olney after finding himself, against every instinct, liking videos from Bragg MP Jack Batty and Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn. Godden’s answer arrived with a caveat wrapped in a compliment: “it would have to be said that Ashton Hirne and Jack Batty have only a vague resemblance to the entire rest of the Liberal Party.” He rates them as two capable, switched-on operators surrounded by what he bluntly called “decrepit fossils and weird cultists” — but he’s blunt about where any Liberal opportunity is actually coming from. Asked whether there’s now something for the Liberals to seize, Godden pushed back hard on the framing: “I don’t agree with that… They’re riven with division,” pointing to a 40,000-signature petition against the premier as evidence that discontent is building on Labor’s own side of the ledger, not because of anything the Liberals have done. David Olney sharpened that point into a broader theory about how governing parties eventually lose the benefit of the doubt. “At a certain point, the ideology smells like five-day-old fish,” he said, and once a party in power starts breaking things badly enough, voters go looking for competent alternatives regardless of their politics. In this reading, Batty and Hurn aren’t succeeding because the Liberals have fixed themselves — they’re succeeding because Malinauskas’s own missteps are softening up his supporters and making them receptive to a Liberal alternative for the first time in years. Godden underlined how fragile even that is, noting a federal example where a promising, competent candidate “lasted six months before the rabble that has no chance of winning decided that they’d rather destroy it for themselves than destroy her.” The pair also dismantled the comfortable idea that Labor’s 41 per cent polling represents genuine popularity. As Godden put it, “if a 39, 40% is a big win these days, you know, two-thirds of people don’t actually want you there,” while Olney pushed further into theory, arguing that Australia’s compulsory voting system means elections are increasingly decided by negativity bias rather than enthusiasm: “more people reach decisions in politics not based on who I like, but on based on who I don’t like.” The implication, left hanging over the rest of the segment, is that if Malinauskas keeps generating reasons for his own base to switch off, Batty and Hurn may not need to do very much at all to become the beneficiaries. The discussion pivoted from parliamentary sparring to street-level action, with Steve Davis probing whether Sunday’s Stop the Chop march — protesting parkland clearing for a motorsport event — carries any real weight in 2026. Godden was characteristically unsentimental: “the only benefit you’ll get out of this march is, is publicity, and continuing to maybe foment more anger in the community, because 40,000 quite angry people won’t get it there.” Olney offered the historical counterpoint that protest’s real value in the 1960s wasn’t its immediate political impact but the fact that it taught a generation “relearning collective action, relearning organisation, relearning holding their political leaders to account” — skills he argues have atrophied in a population that has “shrunk into our little black screens.” That theme of decline without a single dramatic collapse ran through the episode’s most striking tangent, when Olney cited historians’ work dating the fall of Rome not to the sacking of the city but to the point where the empire “stopped solving more than half of its problems every year” — a shift he places somewhere between 112 and 142 CE, and which he half-jokingly maps onto Australia’s own trajectory from around 1980. Godden couldn’t resist the follow-up: does that make Malinauskas South Australia’s Trajan? “Yeah, basically,” Olney replied, before noting the state is still waiting on its Marcus Aurelius. 00:45:30 Musical Pilgrimage In the Musical Pilgrimage this week we listen to Pete’s Sake by Steve Davis & The Virtualosos. For this episode’s musical pilgrimage, Steve Davis premieres his own composition rather than paying tribute to another artist: “For Pete’s Sake,” a comedic ska track from Steve Davis and The Virtuosos, built to fuse the genre’s “upbeat, zany” energy with pointed commentary on the state government’s parklands and MotoGP saga. The song was directly inspired by the premier’s choice of language toward protesters, whom he has variously labelled “ragtag extremists” and “cultural elites,” a framing Davis skewers by noting the real elite will likely be sipping champagne in the “exclusive money can’t buy VIP areas” at the racetrack itself. As Davis puts it, sometimes many a true word is spoken in jest — and occasionally it gets sung in ska.Support the show: https://theadelaideshow.com.au/listen-or-download-the-podcast/adelaide-in-crowd/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we break down New South Wales police's push for powers to empty your entire phone, texts, photos, location data, the lot, during any random stop without a warrant, using Israeli spyware from Cellebrite that police have already used over 30,000 times since 2022 despite telling a parliamentary inquiry they've never used it for surveillance. We score this week's Political Manoeuvres: Angus Taylor dodging fiery questions about his name surfacing in the NSW ICAC's Liberal Party donations inquiry with pure grammatical judo (9/10), and Chris Minns swooping in to rescue a floundering Anthony Albanese from a press pack obsessed with a gift of melons instead of actual policy (9/10 for the save). We also get into the AI-generated real estate photos catfishing home buyers with bedrooms that physically couldn't fit the bed pictured in them, and the good and bad news on bulk billing: up to 84 in 100 GP visits are now free nationally, except investment funds are quietly buying up the clinics. Bypass the Algorithm, Sign up to the Punter Times Newsletter https://www.punterspolitics.com/pages/email-sign-up Support We the Punters on PATREON (https://www.patreon.com/punterspolitics) Buy Punters Stickers & T-shirts (https://www.punterspolitics.com/) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Lombardi, Ontario Liberal leadership candidate and Hub contributor, discusses why he thinks Ontario is Canada's "sick province" suffering from managed decline. He argues that large-L Liberals have abandoned small-l liberal principles like markets and merit and that his generation faces an unprecedented housing and affordability crisis. Lombardi presents his "abundance agenda"—building more housing and infrastructure, reforming health-care delivery, and reducing temporary migration—while defending against criticism that he's too conservative for the Liberal Party.The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get all our best content:https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple)https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify)Watch a video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanadaFollow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS:Pouya Daneshpajooh - Producer and Video EditorHarrison Lowman - Host Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clinton Maynard has unpacked why he believes that Anthony Albanese will win the next election as he points out the Liberal Party's only path to victory.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Levy has called on NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane to sack Upper House MP Chris Rath from the Liberal Party as new revelations continue to emerge from the ICAC probe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you fed up with political antics that undermine our democracy? The recent revelation that Ford's Progressive Conservative party used taxpayer dollars to send an individual to Jamaica to stalk Liberal Party's Bonnie Crombie is outrageous! Join voices like Keith Leslie, Mark Cripps, and Laura Babcock as they passionately confront Ford, his party, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and others who stand against our core values.This isn't just about one politician—it's about the alarming rise of oligarchs, the disturbing influence of figures like Donald Trump, and the unsettling presence of white supremacist groups who are planning a conference in Hamilton this month. We cannot remain silent!Tune in to hear highlights from the Fascism and other FBombs event at the Niagara Sunflower Festival with Laura and Charlie Angus from Meidas Canada. Together, we must stand up for democracy and ensure our voices are heard.We invite you to subscribe, share, and comment. This is a collective fight for a better future, and your involvement is crucial! Let's rise together against those who threaten our values and make a difference—because we are in this together!#Canada #canadian #canadianpolitics #canadiannews #canadianimmigration #canadá #canadianpodcast #Ontario #alberta #Ukraine #CubaAn independent podcast, the best way to support our work is by subscribing. Let's build our pro democracy community! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we break down how a Chicago-based private equity firm running Australia's JobSeeker system pocketed $3.3 billion in revenue, paid just 2.14% tax, and still found $45.9 million to hand shareholders in a year it claimed a $179 million loss, all while Labor sat on its own 2023 inquiry's findings for three years and did nothing about it. We get into how NSW's ICAC is publicly unpicking an alleged secret takeover of the state Liberal Party by a property developer who's now on the run in Beirut with a warrant out for his arrest, why Gina Reinhardt is suing the ABC over a satire sketch while nobody in the corporate media mentions the word "satire," and Konrad's new plan to start a Punters Dark Money Ultimatum to make Albo finally fear us on the gas tax. Plus: a run-in with Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy on a plane, and Andrew Charlton agrees to come on the pod to answer for himself. Bypass the Algorithm, Sign up to the Punter Times Newsletter https://www.punterspolitics.com/pages/email-sign-up Support We the Punters on PATREON (https://www.patreon.com/punterspolitics) Buy Punters Stickers & T-shirts (https://www.punterspolitics.com/) 00:00 Welcome Back & The Foreign Bludgers Rorting JobSeeker 01:57 Gina Sues the ABC: Beauty Pageant Politics We're Not Wasting Time On 09:47 Punter Times: The Chicago Bludgers Taking $2.1 Billion From JobSeeker 11:35 The Privatization Scam: How We Pay More For Worse Service 16:16 Who's To Blame? Johnny Howard Started It, But Labor Knew 17:32 Labor's Tiny Steps: Three Years Of Knowing & Still No Real Fix 23:25 The Real Dole Bludgers: Terry Pays More Tax Than These Corporations 24:39 Pep Up The Punts: NSW ICAC Takes Down Dodgy Property Developers 28:12 Story Time: Conrad Meets Pat Conroy On A Plane 33:21 The Dark Money Quest: Making Politicians Fear Punters 38:34 Shoot The Shit: YouTube Algorithm Woes & Sauce Bottle Admin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The WNBA has created a task force to examine transgender participationAre Jewish Canadians Abandoning the Liberal Party? GUESTS: Charlie Pinkerton - journalist with The Trillium Norman Beal - President and owner of Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery and also Chair of the Board for Ontario Craft wineries Lorrie Goldstein - Editor Emeritus of the Toronto Sun

How have socially conservative Catholics found a home for themselves in the Liberal Party, especially considering its early history as a bastion of Australia's protestant establishment? It's due in large part to the end of long romance between the Catholic Church and the Labor Party. GUEST:Dr Jeff Kildea is the author of the new book Iron Law No More: The Rise and Demise of the Catholic-Labor Alliance in Australia.

The ABC's head of religion, Noel Debien, has been watching the proceedings at ICAC and is here with an update.In New South Wales, the Independent Commission Against Corruption is investigating claims that the head office of Catholic schools – but not the schools themselves -- employed some staff to work primarily on factional activities for the Liberal Party. There've also been allegations that the organisation paid a consultant who then funnelled his money to a faction known as the Reformers. How have socially conservative Catholics found a home for themselves in the Liberal Party, especially considering its early history as a bastion of Australia's protestant establishment? It's due in large part to the end of long romance between the Catholic Church and the Labor Party. GUESTS:Noel Debien is a religion expert and broadcaster, and heads the Religion and Ethics unit at ABC Radio NationalDr Jeff Kildea is the author of the new book Iron Law No More: The Rise and Demise of the Catholic-Labor Alliance in Australia.Anne Benjamin is a respected educator, who was Director of Schools for the Parramatta diocese. This program is recorded on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation

In New South Wales, the Independent Commission Against Corruption is investigating claims that the head office of Catholic schools – but not the schools themselves -- employed some staff to work primarily on factional activities for the Liberal Party. There've also been allegations that the organisation paid a consultant who then funnelled his money to a faction known as the Reformers. But first, the ABC's head of religion, Noel Debien, has been watching the proceedings at ICAC and is here with an update.GUESTS:Noel Debien is a religion expert and broadcaster, and heads the Religion and Ethics unit at ABC Radio NationalAnne Benjamin is a respected educator, who was Director of Schools for the Parramatta diocese. 

No drinking pints standing up in London's nightlife hotspot? No new reservoirs until 2040? Welcome to Veto Britain – where infrastructure, housing and even a round at the bar are all subject to the mercy of endless local objection. So how did we become a country that seems incapable of building, changing or enjoying itself anymore? Plus, racist disorder erupts in Norfolk, scrutiny of Andy Burnham's early prisoner release plan intensifies and the PM's crackdown on “subscription traps” gives cancel culture a whole new meaning.  • Questions for But Your Emails? Thoughts? Comments? Email us at ogwn@podmasters.co.uk.  ESCAPE ROUTES • Jonn finally watched Stephen Fry and Mark Carwardine's documentary Last Chance to See, based on Carwardine and Douglas Adams' book and radio series of the same name • Rachel has been reading Virgil's epic The Aeneid – “the Roman response to Homer,” she says. • Raf saw a production of Molière's Tartuffe while in France which is coming to the Marylebone Theatre next month.  • Zoë zoomed through Jem Calder's I Want You to Be Happy Image: Cartoon depicting Sir Wilfrid Lawson, 2nd Baronet of Brayton (1829-1906), an English temperance campaigner and radical, anti-imperialist Liberal Party politician. Dated 19th Century. No idea who the bloke on the right is. (Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Zoë Grünewald, with Rachel Cunliffe, Jonn Elledge and Rafael Behr. Produced by James Liddell. Audio Production: Tom Taylor. Art direction: James Parrett. Theme tune by Tom Taylor and Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. www.podmasters.co.uk  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 3 of the Chris Hand Show | Aired Monday 08-10-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clinton Maynard has revealed how the Liberal Party and Angus Taylor's biggest problem is himself.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One Nation leader and Queensland senator Pauline Hanson told Tom Elliott the Liberal Party needs to “get rid of their attitude” if they wanted to defeat the current government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eric Kaufmann, professor of politics at the University of Buckingham, examines the state of "wokeness" in Western democracies. He argues that while social momentum has shifted in the U.S., institutional identity politics remains deeply entrenched in Canada. Kaufmann discusses how the Liberal Party “colonized” Canadian identity in the 1960s, why Canadian conservatives are struggling to reclaim patriotic narratives, and the continuing crisis in academia where left-wing dominance stifles viewpoint diversity. He advocates for "ethical populism" over a slash and burn approach, and explains why he is creating a heterodox AI to counter progressive academic bias.The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get all our best content:https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple)https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify)Watch a video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanadaFollow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS:Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer and Video Editor Harrison Lowman - Host Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume joins David Speers with James Campbell, Jacqueline Maley and Tom Crowley on the couch.

Tom Elliott noted some of the issues he spoke about sounded awfully similar to the opposing Liberal Party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weeks ai slop is served up by DeepSeek v4 Pro. I tried to use Kimi but it got stuck generating the notes. So now you get this. Could be worse. Episode SummaryJack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack return for a wide-ranging conversation that spans the turbulent state of Australian politics and the precarious state of global affairs. The episode opens with striking Redbridge polling data suggesting One Nation could pick up as many as 19 seats in the upcoming Victorian state election -- a result that would leave neither major party able to form government in its own right. The Jacks explore the mechanics of minority government, the prospect of a marriage of convenience between the Liberals and One Nation, and whether Labor voters in protest mode could deliver One Nation unexpected inroads into heartland seats.The domestic focus then shifts to the Australian economy. Drawing on former ACTU Secretary Bill Kelty's recent analysis, the hosts dissect a bureaucracy more concerned with treating symptoms than causes, lamenting squandered billions on unused quarantine centres, infrastructure costs among the highest in the world, and a housing crisis driven by a failure to train enough workers. The conversation turns to political courage -- or the lack of it -- comparing today's risk-averse governing class with the Hawke-Keating reform era, when fringe benefits tax was meant to kill the long lunch but somehow did not.A spirited defence of Emerge Australia -- an advocacy group training GPs to diagnose and treat myalgic encephalomyelitis (chronic fatigue syndrome) -- highlights the government's decision to cut a mere $400,000 in funding, a move Jack the Insider brands disgraceful for an organisation serving an estimated 250,000 Australians. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme reform also gets a hearing, with pharmaceutical companies increasingly bypassing Australia for clinical trials.Internationally, the Jacks confront the escalating dangers of the Russia-Ukraine war. With Ukraine making Crimea increasingly uninhabitable and Vladimir Putin backed into a corner, the prospect of an attack on a NATO or NATO-aligned state looms. The conversation covers Russia's cancelled bond sale, the shifting power dynamic between Putin and Xi Jinping, and thousands of Russian passports arriving in Moldova -- a familiar prelude to intervention. On Iran, the hosts reflect on the Trump administration's military strikes, oil climbing past USD 100 a barrel, and the political consequences for the upcoming US midterm elections.The episode closes with sport: the FIFA World Cup (and Argentina's remarkable ability to unify the football world in mutual disdain), the AFL's handling of the Nicky Winmar domestic violence case and questions of consistency, the end of the Bazball era in English Test cricket, a warm tribute to the late Sir Garfield Sobers, and rugby union's new Nations Championship format.Timestamped Highlights(All timestamps adjusted +25 seconds to account for theme music.)00:00:26 -- Introduction and Banter Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack open the show trading observations on air conditioning, long lunches, and the perils of sitting directly beneath the vent.00:01:32 -- One Nation's Victorian Polling Surge Redbridge polling data indicates One Nation could win as many as 19 seats in the Victorian state election. In an 88-seat legislature, that would make a majority for either major party almost impossible.00:02:52 -- Minority Government Mechanics Hong Kong Jack explains the constitutional pathway: if no party wins a majority, the sitting Premier gets the first conversation with the Governor and may be recommissioned to form government.00:04:20 -- A Three-Cornered Contest Jack the Insider argues the Allan government is at the end of the road, but the Liberal alternative inspires little confidence. One Nation may poll well in Labor heartland seats as protest voters look for an outlet that is not the Liberal Party.00:06:33 -- The Polling vs. the Pencil Hong Kong Jack predicts One Nation's polling numbers will soften once voters are alone in the booth with an HB pencil hovering over the ballot paper.00:08:32 -- Commonwealth Games Land in Glasgow The hosts acknowledge the Commonwealth Games have begun -- in Glasgow, not Victoria. The opening ceremony featured King Charles and Queen Camilla emerging from a Doctor Who TARDIS.00:10:50 -- Pauline Hanson and the Tommy Robinson Interview The Jacks dissect Hanson's decision to interview the controversial British figure, with Hong Kong Jack arguing the motivation is straightforward: publicity, good or bad.00:12:12 -- Factions Within One Nation Barnaby Joyce's visible discomfort with the Robinson interview signals internal tensions. Jack the Insider warns One Nation risks veering further towards the "lunar right."00:13:30 -- Two Australias: The Great Dog Divide A detour into the changing culture of pet ownership. Jack the Insider contrasts the utilitarian farm dogs of his Reservoir childhood with the multi-billion-dollar industry of designer dog beds, pushchairs, and booties.00:15:59 -- Bill Kelty's Economic Diagnosis Former ACTU Secretary Bill Kelty delivers a blunt assessment: Australian governments have spent decades treating symptoms rather than causes -- quarantine centres never used, infrastructure costs at world-record levels, a housing crisis born of under-investment in skills.00:17:59 -- The Courage Deficit Hong Kong Jack argues the current government, like its recent predecessors, lacks political boldness. The Prime Minister's Labor conference speech seemed "spooked by One Nation" rather than offering a growth narrative.00:19:22 -- The Keating Comparison Jack the Insider revisits the Hawke-Keating reform era, noting the howls of outrage that greeted early reforms -- including fringe benefits tax, which was meant to "kill lunch" but somehow did not. The difference today: social media amplifies every backlash.00:23:02 -- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Funding Cut An urgent segment on the defunding of Emerge Australia, an advocacy group that has trained roughly 10% of the nation's GPs in diagnosing and treating ME/CFS. The cut amounts to approximately $400,000 -- a sum Jack the Insider describes as negligible in public expenditure but catastrophic for the 250,000 Australians living with the condition.00:26:37 -- The PBS and Australia's Clinical Trial Problem Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly bypassing Australia for clinical trials, leaving patients with rare conditions to raise extraordinary sums for overseas treatment. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme's pricing structure may require root-and-branch reform, particularly for newly developed drugs.00:29:50 -- What Should Labor Do About One Nation? Hong Kong Jack's prescription is simple: fix the economy and stop saying silly things. One Nation will wither on the vine if economic growth returns.00:30:17 -- Derryn Hinch: The Human Headline Remembered The former broadcaster, senator, and Justice Party founder has died aged 82. The Jacks reflect on a complicated legacy -- a man who transformed Melbourne talkback radio and tabloid television, was twice married to Jacki Weaver, and whose profound impact on the media is tempered by a deeply troubling intervention in the justice system.00:32:00 -- The Glennon Case: When a Headline Cost Children Their Safety Jack the Insider recounts in detail how Hinch's decision to publicly name convicted paedophile priest Michael Glennon during an active trial led to the suspension of proceedings, an eventual overturned conviction, and a four-year window in which Glennon continued operating camps and abusing children -- as many as 20 additional victims.00:38:14 -- Hinch's Media Legacy Despite the Glennon tragedy, Hong Kong Jack credits Hinch with changing the sound of Melbourne radio. The talkback format he pioneered arguably saved stations like 3AW.00:40:32 -- Ukraine and the Battle for Crimea The Ukrainians cannot hold Crimea, but they are making it unliveable. Water, electricity, and supplies have been cut. Crimeans are fleeing en masse. The Russian Black Sea Fleet has effectively ceased to exist.00:42:13 -- Putin Backed Into a Corner Jack the Insider warns that Vladimir Putin, when cornered, does not act rationally. The spectre of an attack on a NATO country -- perhaps a Baltic state -- or on Moldova is real. Putin cannot sue for peace; it would mean the end of him.00:44:21 -- Russia's Economic Pressure Points Hong Kong Jack notes that Russia cancelled a regular bond sale last week after failing to find buyers. The economic squeeze is mounting. Putin and his deeply unpopular party are now being fused together ahead of elections.00:47:13 -- Russian Passports Arrive in Moldova Thousands of Russian passports have been shipped to Moldova -- the same playbook used in Crimea and eastern Ukraine before intervention.00:49:32 -- Iran, the Houthis, and Oil Above USD 100 US strikes on Iran continue. Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have struck oil tankers. The price of crude has pushed past USD 100 a barrel -- a politically dangerous number for Donald Trump four months out from the midterms.00:50:33 -- The Netanyahu Pitch for Regime Change Jack the Insider recounts the scene from Swan and Haberman's book: Benjamin Netanyahu presenting a case for US-Israeli combined bombing to achieve regime change in Iran. Trump was impressed; Marco Rubio and the CIA director were not.00:52:56 -- US Midterms: The Democratic Candidate Problem The Democrats' prospects are muddied by candidate issues including the withdrawal of Graham Plattner over sexual assault allegations and the party's persistent inability to select candidates who genuinely connect with the white working class.00:54:40 -- Tim Waltz, John Kerry, and Authenticity Hong Kong Jack contrasts the Democrats' clumsy attempts to project authenticity -- Tim Waltz hunting, John Kerry windsurfing -- with the reality that Kerry was an ice hockey player who once attended a White House meeting with two black eyes from a congressional game.00:58:19 -- The Sickness in American Democracy Jack the Insider argues the two-party lock on presidential politics -- achieved partly by keeping third-party candidates off ballots in roughly 30 states -- is profoundly undemocratic. With 40% of voters now registering as independents, millions have no candidate who represents them.00:59:43 -- Can Trump Disrupt the Midterms? Hong Kong Jack analyses the constitutional limits on presidential interference in state-run elections. Any attempt to use emergency powers would go straight to court.01:03:43 -- Marine Le Pen: France's Next President? Polling around 67%, Le Pen is the frontrunner for the French presidential election. Her felony conviction for misusing EU funds appears to be no impediment.01:05:09 -- Andy Burnham's Fast Start as UK Prime Minister The new PM has hit the ground running with popular measures: a GBP 2 bus fare cap across England, 20% business rate cuts for pubs, clubs, and live music venues, and the scrapping of VAT on domestic electricity bills.01:07:36 -- Britain's Investment Challenge The biggest test for Burnham will be attracting investment. The UK has 11 million working-age citizens on benefits -- a figure now exceeding tax receipts.01:09:03 -- FIFA World Cup: Argentina Triumphs, Trump Photobombs Argentina are world champions, but not before a petition signed by millions demanded their exclusion from the final. Donald Trump appeared on the podium; the Spanish commemorative photos, the Jacks note, did not include him.01:11:07 -- The Refereeing and the Expansion The officiating was patchy, but the expanded tournament format was vindicated. Seeing Cape Verde, Australia, New Zealand, and Iran compete gave the event a genuinely global feel.01:14:23 -- Nicky Winmar, the AFL Hall of Fame, and Domestic Violence The Jacks grapple with the AFL's removal of Winmar from the Hall of Fame following a domestic violence conviction. Jack the Insider questions the consistency: Wayne Carey and Gary Ablett Sr. remain honoured. Hong Kong Jack suggests a suspension rather than permanent expulsion would have been more appropriate, arguing that football cannot be reserved for choirboys.01:19:06 -- Bazball's End: The McCallum Era Concludes Baz McCallum is out as England's Test coach after 49 Tests: 27 wins, 20 losses. Ten of the first eleven were victories; seven of the last nine were defeats. The hosts debate whether Bazball added to cricket's audience even if it could not sustainably win Test matches.01:23:20 -- Sir Garfield Sobers: The Greatest of All Time A warm tribute to the late West Indian legend. Jack the Insider recalls meeting Sobers at the Hilton in Barbados. Hong Kong Jack shares the story of Sobers -- completely ambidextrous -- playing golf off scratch left-handed and off two right-handed.01:27:53 -- Rugby Union's Nations Championship A new format pits Northern Hemisphere sides against Southern Hemisphere sides, culminating in finals at Twickenham. Hong Kong Jack is sceptical anyone will care which hemisphere wins. The 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, however, is selling tickets strongly.01:30:00 -- Sign-Off Jack the Insider thanks listeners and apologises for the previous week's absence due to illness. The hosts promise to return on or around 31 July, though Hong Kong Jack advises against buying "20-year futures in us."Social Media PostsTwitter / XPost 1: One Nation could win up to 19 seats in the Victorian election. On this week's episode, we break down what a three-cornered contest means for the major parties -- and why minority government may be coming to Spring Street. Listen now.Post 2: "Putin, when cornered, does not act rationally." This week we examine the escalating dangers in Ukraine, Russian passports in Moldova, and why oil above USD 100 spells trouble for Trump. New episode of The Two Jacks out now.Post 3: $400,000. That is what it costs to train GPs across Australia to diagnose and treat ME/CFS -- and the government has cut it. We discuss why this quiet defunding of Emerge Australia is a disgrace. Full episode linked.Post 4: Derryn Hinch transformed Australian media. He also, by his own grandstanding, gave a paedophile priest four more years of access to children. This week we examine the complicated legacy of the Human Headline.Post 5: Bazball is dead. Garry Sobers is immortal. Nicky Winmar is out of the Hall of Fame. Our sport segment this week covers the big calls in cricket, AFL, rugby, and a World Cup final that unified the planet -- against Argentina.FacebookThis week on The Two Jacks: Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack navigate a political landscape where the old rules no longer apply.Redbridge polling has One Nation on track to become kingmaker in Victoria. We explore what minority government would actually look like -- and whether Labor can cling to power even if it finishes second.Bill Kelty says Australia's bureaucracy treats symptoms, not causes. We ask: where has political courage gone, and could anyone sell reform the way Keating did?From a USD 400,000 funding cut that will devastate chronic fatigue sufferers, to pharmaceutical companies abandoning Australian clinical trials, to a PBS in need of root-and-branch reform -- the domestic agenda is packed.Internationally, the picture is darker. Putin is cornered in Ukraine. Iran burns. Oil has passed USD 100. And the US midterms are shaping up as a referendum on Trump's foreign policy.Plus: Derryn Hinch's complicated legacy, Argentina's World Cup, Nicky Winmar and the AFL's consistency problem, the death of Bazball, and a toast to Sir Garfield Sobers -- the greatest cricketer who ever lived.Listen wherever you get your podcasts.InstagramCaption for episode artwork: Episode 165 is live. This week: One Nation's Victorian moment, Putin's dangerous corner, the Hinch legacy, and why a $400K funding cut matters more than you think. Link in bio.

In the second week of our new Represent National hour, Benita takes us through the return of the 'ditch the witch' billboard smearing Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, and the state of gendered abuse in politics. Ashley looks at yet more challenges for the modern Liberal Party, including Moira Deeming being unendorsed as a Victorian upper house candidate, and a greater party identity crisis. Nayan tells of One Nation senator Pauline Hanson's wild and wacky "fact-finding" Europe and UK tour, where she gave a speech to a mostly empty room and bemoaned the end of the White Australia Policy on a far right activist's podcast. Represent is a Syn Media podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Pauline Hanson has again declared that she could become Prime Minister after the next election. But could she?  Or will her recent European tour and a string of controversial comments from immigration to domestic violence start to turn voters away?  Today, former Liberal Party strategist and Redbridge Group director Tony Barry on what voters are saying, and why Pauline Hanson is increasingly setting the political agenda.  Featured:  Tony Barry, Redbridge Group director 

In more than 50 years of covering federal politics, The Australian's editor-at-large says he has 'never seen a crisis' like the one facing the Liberal Party today.

Trudie Mason welcomes in Raphaël Melançon, political analyst for CTV Montreal and CJAD 800, and columnist for the Montreal Gazette, and Victor Henriquez, Public affairs and crisis management specialist at Public Strategy and Conseil. Ontario Premier Doug Ford wants Canada to leverage our most valuable resources to hit back at the U.S. after the White House announced plans for new tariffs this week. The Globe and Mail is reporting this morning that Prime Minister Mark Carney made significant concessions to the United States to secure the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge. It has been a busy 24 hours for the Quebec Liberal Party. They have dropped a candidate for the upcoming election and a former candidate and organizer for party leader Charles Milliard. The STM says it spent more than $100,000 cleaning thousands of union stickers that were plastered throughout Montreal's metro stations and buses during labour disputes last year.

Martha Hall Findlay, director of the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy and one of the original architects of the Pathways carbon capture proposal, explains why she believes the project should have been postponed despite the recent agreement between Ottawa, Alberta, and the five oilsands companies behind it. Yet if that compromise is the political price of securing a new West Coast pipeline, she argues it may ultimately be worth it. Hall Findlay also discusses the corporate incentives that may still be needed to spur new oilsands investment, the politics of so-called corporate welfare, potential opposition within the Liberal Party, and whether Canadians can be persuaded to support the “grand bargain.”This podcast is generously supported by Don Archibald. The Hub thanks him for his ongoing support.The Hub is Canada's fastest-growing independent digital news outlet.Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get our latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanadaSubscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go:https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS:Falice Chin - Host, Producer, and Editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guardian Australia political editor Tom McIlroy talks to Paul Kelly about his new book on the turbulent era of the Liberal party under prime ministers Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison. In The Twilight of Exceptionalism, Kelly writes about how the Liberal leadership changed hands from a conservative to a progressive and then a transactional centrist. The Australian newpaper's editor-at-large argues that this period demonstrated the party was fractured over its values and confused about its identity in a changing world

Paul Kelly speaks to political editor Tom McIlroy about his new book on the turbulent era of the Liberal party under prime ministers Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison. In The Twilight of Exceptionalism, Kelly writes about how the Liberal leadership changed hands from a conservative, to a progressive and then a transactional centrist. The Australian's editor at large argues that this period demonstrated the party was fractured over its values and confused about its identity in a changing world

The Liberal Party weighs gender quotas as part of a plan to rebuild support, One Nation declares it's no threat to the Coalition. Plus, a debate grows over whether the Liberals should rebuild around demographics or conservative values.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberal Party considers gender quotas as it looks to win back voters, JD Vance's bombshell interview with Joe Rogan. Plus, Meghan Markle faces fresh embarrassment during Prince Harry's UK visit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Church History Matters, hosts Scott Woodward and Casey Griffiths continue their exploration of politics and religion by examining some of the most challenging and fascinating chapters of Latter-day Saint history. Together they explore how political pressures, party loyalties, and national events shaped the Church and its members during the nineteenth century. The discussion begins with the difficult subject of slavery in early Utah Territory, examining how Utah's territorial laws reflected the complicated political realities of the era and how Church leaders navigated an increasingly divided United States. Scott and Casey then turn to the unique political system that developed in Utah, explaining the origins of the People's Party and the Liberal Party, why they dominated territorial politics for decades, and why Church leaders ultimately encouraged their dissolution so Latter-day Saints could participate in the nation's two major political parties—the Democrats and Republicans. The episode also takes an in-depth look at the remarkable story of Apostle Moses Thatcher. Once one of the Church's most gifted leaders, Thatcher's struggles with chronic illness, reliance on opium-based medications, growing political independence, and refusal to sign the Church's Political Manifesto placed him at odds with fellow Church leaders. His eventual release from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles remains one of the most significant intersections of faith, politics, and personal conviction in Latter-day Saint history. How should religious organizations interact with political movements? What lessons can modern believers learn from these historical experiences? And what does this history teach us about balancing civic engagement with religious devotion? Join Scott and Casey as they explore these important questions and uncover the historical context behind one of the most politically complex periods in Church history. In this episode you'll learn: • Why the People's Party and Liberal Party emerged—and why they disappeared. • How Utah transitioned into the national Democratic and Republican parties. • The life, political views, and challenges of Apostle Moses Thatcher. • The role of the Political Manifesto and its impact on Church leadership. • Lessons about religion, politics, and faithful citizenship that continue to resonate today. If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about Latter-day Saint history, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with others interested in the Restoration and its historical context. #ChurchHistoryMatters #ChurchHistory #LDSHistory #MormonHistory #ReligionAndPolitics #MosesThatcher #UtahHistory #Slavery #Restoration #ScottWoodward #CaseyGriffiths

Paul Kelly, Editor-at-Large of The Australian, investigates how the country went from the great reform age under Hawke, Keating and Howard, into the tumultuous Abbott-Turnbull-Morrison era of prime ministers, and arrived at the current existential crisis facing the Liberal Party.Paul started his career as a political journalist in the 1970s and was at old Parliament House when Gough Whitlam was dismissed.In his latest book, Paul examines how the Liberal Party lost its long-standing grip on the Australian psyche between 2013 and 2022, as it cycled through three temperamentally and ideologically divergent prime ministers. He says that despite its many achievements, the Coalition in office was marked by a period of under-performance and doubts over the political system's capacity to serve the national interest.Paul looks at the factors underpinning the current crisis besetting the Coalition and the reasons why Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison all struggled to govern, in very different ways.Further informationThe Twilight of Exceptionalism: The Liberal and Conservative Era 2013 - 2022 is published by Melbourne University Press.This episode was produced by Alice Moldovan. Conversations' Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison.This episode covers Liberal party crisis, Barnaby Joyce, One Nation, conservatism, populism, populist, same sex marriage plebiscite, postal survey, carbon tax, Julia Gillard, Kevin Rudd, covid19, covid, conservative politics, conservatism, MH17, Putin, Ukraine, mossad, ASIS, budget, NDIS, Gonski, Prince Philip, knighthood, Scotty from marketing, China, AUKUS, Albanese, To binge even more great episodes of the 'Conversations podcast' with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, singers, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Oh my god don't get RSV it's so shit. We will be back with TCRP soon. My brain has been goats cheese. It's been a hell of a fortnight but there's a lot going on and it must be laughed at. In the meantime, here is a plethora of Jacks to satiate your auspol cravings. This week the shownotes are slopped to you by GPT 5.5 - which seems to have done an okay job and also sounds a lot less 'chatGPT' which is nice. The titles are way less shit than usual. Maybe that sociopathic compulsive liar Sam Altman is onto something. Nah. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------In episode 163 of The Two Jacks, recorded on 2 July 2026, Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack take a wide-ranging look at the political, economic and sporting stories shaping Australia and the world.The episode opens with Australia's housing market, including recent house price falls, the risks facing first home buyers using the 5 per cent deposit scheme, and the dangers of negative equity. The Jacks then turn to the striking rise of One Nation, debating whether the surge is a genuine long-term disruption in Australian politics or partly a mirage fuelled by social media, disinformation and dissatisfaction with the major parties.Victorian politics comes under close scrutiny, with discussion of Moira Deeming, the Matthew Guy allegation, Jess Wilson's leadership, and Jacinta Allan's handling of the Big Build controversies. Internationally, the episode covers Andy Burnham's likely move into Downing Street, Keir Starmer's defence spending announcement, Trump-era decision-making as explored in Jonathan Swan and Maggie Haberman's book, congressional stock trading in the United States, and the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine war.The show wraps with sport, including Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket, England's reckless loss to New Zealand, the future of Bazball, World Cup football, State of Origin, AFL fixturing and Australia's women's cricket team reaching another World Cup final.00:00:25 — Welcome to Episode 163Jack the Insider opens the show and marks the start of the new financial year in Australia. Hong Kong Jack joins from Hong Kong, where the previous day marked Reunification Day, the anniversary of the handover to the People's Republic of China.00:01:10 — Housing Prices, First Home Buyers and Negative EquityThe Jacks begin with Australia's housing market and recent reports of price declines in suburbs with strong uptake of the 5 per cent deposit scheme. They unpack the risk of highly leveraged first home buyers falling into negative equity, where the debt on a property exceeds its current market value.Hong Kong Jack recalls the early 1990s Melbourne housing market, when banks were reluctant to sell distressed inner-suburban properties because doing so would have further damaged the market. The discussion compares that period with the global financial crisis in the United States and Ireland, where property crashes led to widespread foreclosures.00:04:00 — Can Australian House Prices Keep Rising?The conversation turns to whether Australian housing can continue producing the large capital gains many homeowners have come to expect. Jack the Insider argues that prices in Sydney and Melbourne cannot keep rising at the same pace without locking younger buyers out of the market.Hong Kong Jack makes the broader point that Australia's tax and investment settings have made owner-occupied housing unusually attractive compared with other investments, contributing to long-term affordability problems.00:06:36 — Could Money Shift from Housing to the ASX?Jack the Insider speculates that if housing becomes less reliable as an investment vehicle, more money may flow into equities and the Australian share market. The discussion also touches on the weak outlook for CBD commercial property, with work-from-home trends continuing to affect demand.00:07:25 — The 5 Per Cent Deposit SchemeThe Jacks assess the Albanese government's 5 per cent deposit scheme for first home buyers. Hong Kong Jack says it may provide some help for young people trying to enter the market, but it is not a magic solution to housing affordability.They discuss the practical challenge of borrowing large sums with very little equity, especially if prices flatten or fall. The risk for banks and borrowers is that buyers may end up with little or no equity for some time.00:10:41 — The One Nation SurgeThe episode moves to One Nation's rise in the polls. Jack the Insider notes that One Nation polled around 6.5 per cent nationally at the previous federal election but is now polling far higher, with some figures placing the party in the 20s.The Jacks discuss possible reasons for the surge, including public dissatisfaction with the major parties, the political aftermath of the Bondi terror attack, and the way right-wing voters are shifting away from the Coalition.00:11:48 — Social Media, Bots and the “Mirage” of One NationJack the Insider raises concerns about foreign influence, AI-generated videos, disinformation and bot-like social media activity targeting Australian politics. He cites examples of fake or misleading material involving Natalie Barr, Anthony Albanese and claims about Labor figures selling property after the budget.He argues that some of the online activity appears designed to attack both the government and the Coalition while indirectly benefiting One Nation. He describes part of the One Nation surge as a “mirage”, while acknowledging that real-world results, such as the South Australian election and the Farrar by-election, show the party has genuine support.00:18:20 — Is One Nation the Biggest Political Disruption Since World War II?Hong Kong Jack argues that, even allowing for some mirage factor, One Nation's polling makes it the biggest disruption to Australian politics since World War II. He compares the party's current position with the historical performance of the DLP, Australian Democrats and Greens, none of which reached similar national polling levels.Jack the Insider counters that One Nation's rise appears to be splintering the right-wing vote rather than pulling substantial support from Labor or the left. The Jacks agree the Liberal Party has a major strategic problem: it must rebuild its primary vote while deciding how directly to confront One Nation.00:21:56 — What Should the Liberal Party Do?The Jacks discuss the Liberal Party's path back to competitiveness. Hong Kong Jack says the party should stop obsessing over polls and focus on hard policy work, local campaigning and the basics of politics.Jack the Insider argues the Liberals will eventually need to attack One Nation directly. His view is that conservative voters must be told clearly that a vote for One Nation is likely to help return Labor to government or create instability.00:23:38 — Pauline Hanson, Policy Uncertainty and Senate AttendanceJack the Insider criticises Pauline Hanson's policy understanding and parliamentary work ethic, citing her position on maternity leave and Senate attendance. He argues that One Nation's shifting policy framework and uncertainty will become more apparent under greater scrutiny.The Jacks also discuss preference flows and whether the Coalition can rely on One Nation preferences if the right-wing vote remains fragmented.00:26:51 — Moira Deeming, Matthew Guy and the Victorian LiberalsThe conversation shifts to Victorian Liberal politics. Jack the Insider discusses Moira Deeming, who is likely to face disendorsement, and says Jess Wilson appears to be handling internal party discipline more effectively than previous Liberal leaders.The Jacks examine Deeming's allegation involving Matthew Guy and the CCTV footage that emerged afterward. Jack the Insider argues that the Victorian Liberals must deal firmly with internal destabilisation if they are to present themselves as a credible alternative government.00:31:00 — Don Farrell on One Nation and the Bondi AttackHong Kong Jack notes that Labor frontbencher Don Farrell has attributed One Nation's rise partly to Coalition division and partly to a post-Bondi surge. Jack the Insider questions whether the Bondi attack will become a lasting voting determinant, suggesting it may prove to be a temporary political factor.The discussion also covers One Nation and the Greens voting against proposed bans on hate preachers, despite rhetoric about the issue after Bondi.00:33:08 — Newspoll, Labor's Position and Coalition TroubleJack the Insider discusses polling showing Labor improving, One Nation slipping slightly and the Coalition struggling. He argues that the Coalition must win back a large share of One Nation's support if it is to become competitive.The Jacks consider whether One Nation has reached its high watermark or whether the movement has deeper staying power. They also note that Labor and the Greens together remain in a strong position if the conservative vote continues to fracture.00:38:08 — Jacinta Allan and Victoria's Big Build ProblemsVictorian Premier Jacinta Allan comes under scrutiny over the Big Build projects and allegations surrounding inflated costs and union influence. The Jacks discuss reporting by The Age's investigative unit and Nick McKenzie, including claims about contractors being asked whether they could do deals with unions.Hong Kong Jack says Allan's position looks increasingly terminal, while Jack the Insider says there is widespread anger among Victorians toward the government. They agree the timing of the controversy is politically damaging for Labor.00:41:07 — Could Victorian Labor Replace Jacinta Allan?The Jacks debate whether Victorian Labor has the courage or capacity to replace Allan before the election. Jack the Insider argues that taking over now would be a political kamikaze job, given the scale of Labor's problems.They compare Allan with Daniel Andrews, whom Jack the Insider describes as a much stronger communicator and political operator. The discussion also considers whether Labor still has a narrow path to victory if the right-wing vote splits between the Liberals, One Nation and other parties.00:45:35 — The Age, “Uniparty” Claims and Victorian Labor's DefendersHong Kong Jack shares a social media post attacking The Age as part of a supposed One Nation-Liberal-National “uniparty” media operation. The Jacks use it to illustrate the type of rhetoric surrounding Victorian politics and the difficulty Labor faces as corruption and governance issues dominate the debate.00:46:46 — Joh Bjelke-Petersen Comparisons and Victorian CorruptionThe conversation touches on comparisons between Victoria's current political troubles and the corruption scandals that brought down Joh Bjelke-Petersen in Queensland. Jack the Insider notes commentary suggesting that corruption can become the defining factor that ends a long-running government.They also discuss the relationship between Victorian Labor and sections of the union movement, including the role of unions in major construction projects.00:50:30 — Andy Burnham's UK ProgramThe Jacks move to UK politics and Andy Burnham's expected rise to the prime ministership. Hong Kong Jack outlines Burnham's program, including a proposal to govern partly from Manchester and devolve more power to regions and councils.Jack the Insider frames this as part of a broader devolution agenda. Hong Kong Jack is sceptical, arguing that devolution has not clearly succeeded in Scotland or Wales and may not deliver the growth Burnham is promising.00:53:59 — Keir Starmer's Defence Spending AnnouncementKeir Starmer's proposed defence spending boost comes under scrutiny. Hong Kong Jack argues the numbers do not add up and describes the announcement as “smoke and mirrors”.The Jacks also discuss Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's performance at Prime Minister's Questions and how she may find Burnham a tougher opponent than Starmer.00:56:59 — “Died” or “Passed Away”?In a lighter aside, the Jacks discuss euphemisms around death, particularly the increasingly common use of “passed” or “passed away”. Hong Kong Jack says he prefers plain language and warns Jack the Insider not to say he has “passed” when the time comes.00:58:28 — Jonathan Swan, Maggie Haberman and Trump's Decision-MakingThe conversation moves to the United States and the book by Jonathan Swan and Maggie Haberman. Jack the Insider discusses material about Trump's decision-making style, particularly the tendency to favour gut instinct even when advice from officials points in another direction.The Jacks discuss US decision-making around Iran and the dangers of ignoring structured advice in favour of personal instinct.01:04:11 — AI, Congress and Insider TradingThe Jacks discuss claims that AI tools have exposed widespread conflicts between congressional stock trades and the legislative work of US politicians. The system described cross-references stock purchases with bills and committee activity.Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack stress that this is a bipartisan problem, not confined to one party or one administration. They note that the STOCK Act was intended to address congressional trading conflicts but has not produced meaningful enforcement.01:08:47 — Trump, Crypto, Wealth and CorruptionThe discussion broadens to Donald Trump's personal enrichment, including crypto ventures, the Qatar jet issue and business opportunities involving Trump family members. Jack the Insider argues that Trump appears to be benefiting heavily from his second term.Hong Kong Jack says the presidency is difficult to regulate in this area, while Congress has shown little willingness to police itself.01:13:36 — Russia-Ukraine War UpdateJack the Insider discusses Ukrainian drone strikes near Moscow, including attacks on fuel infrastructure and refineries. The Jacks note reports of fuel shortages, long queues and unrest at Russian service stations.Hong Kong Jack explains that Ukraine appears to be targeting specific refinery components that Russia cannot easily replace. The Jacks also discuss reports of Russian troop movements, the pressure on Crimea, and the possibility of political instability inside Russia if the war continues to turn against Moscow.01:18:34 — Drone Warfare and Moscow's VulnerabilityThe Jacks reflect on how drone warfare has transformed modern conflict. Jack the Insider describes footage of Ukrainian drones reaching Moscow while Russian air defences fired ineffectively.They note that when the invasion began, few expected Ukraine to hold out for years, let alone gain the upper hand in key areas through targeted strikes and technological adaptation.01:20:15 — Ben Stokes Retires from International CricketThe sports segment begins with Ben Stokes' surprise retirement from international cricket. Jack the Insider describes watching the announcement unfold during England's Test against New Zealand and says the moment shifted the entire atmosphere of the match.The Jacks argue that England's focus turned into a farewell lap for Stokes rather than a serious attempt to win or save the Test.01:22:10 — England's Reckless Chase and New Zealand's Great WinThe Jacks criticise England's approach to the run chase, including the decision to open with Stokes and the reckless batting that followed. They praise New Zealand for a disciplined, hard-fought victory and highlight Daryl Mitchell's courageous century on a difficult wicket.Hong Kong Jack says New Zealand's series win deserves major recognition, especially given their record away from home under their captain.01:25:16 — New Zealand's Strength and England's Bazball ProblemThe Jacks discuss New Zealand's strengths: preparation, fielding, resilience and intent. They contrast this with England's loose approach and the possible end of the Bazball era.Jack the Insider says Ben Stokes has been a wonderful player and match-winner but argues that England now faces serious leadership and management problems. The Jacks debate the futures of Brendon McCullum, Rob Key and England's Test setup.01:32:19 — World Cup, France and BrazilThe Jacks briefly discuss the World Cup, noting the difficulty of keeping track of the tournament but identifying France as looking particularly strong. Brazil and Norway are also mentioned as teams to watch.01:32:47 — State of Origin PreviewThe conversation turns to State of Origin, with the Blues heading to Lang Park. Jack the Insider says New South Wales have only rarely won a series decider there and does not see it happening this time.01:33:15 — AFL Fixtures and Broadcast FrustrationsThe Jacks preview upcoming AFL matches, including Geelong versus Brisbane, Sydney versus the Bulldogs, and Richmond versus Carlton. Jack the Insider questions the logic of the AFL fixture, particularly overlapping games and the lack of Saturday afternoon free-to-air football.01:36:19 — Australian Women's Cricket Team Reaches Another FinalJack the Insider notes that Australia's women's cricket team has reached another ICC World Cup final after beating India. England and South Africa are due to play for the other spot in the final.He praises the Australian side for remaining a powerful force despite changes from previous line-ups.01:37:11 — Listener Feedback and Sign-OffJack the Insider closes the episode by thanking Hong Kong Jack for his opinions and preparation. Listeners are encouraged to send in comments, criticisms and issues they would like the Two Jacks to tackle in future episodes.Hong Kong Jack jokingly asks listeners not to send anything complimentary.-- Dunno why it did this but it gave another show description? Whatever nobody is still reading at this point. Short Episode DescriptionJack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack unpack Australia's housing jitters, the risks facing first home buyers, One Nation's polling surge, and the Coalition's strategic dilemma. They also examine Victorian Labor's Big Build troubles, Jacinta Allan's leadership problems, Andy Burnham's UK agenda, Trump-era decision-making, congressional stock trading, Ukraine's drone war against Russia and a huge week in sport, including Ben Stokes' retirement and New Zealand's Test triumph over England.Long Episode DescriptionIn episode 163 of The Two Jacks, Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack begin with Australia's housing market, where falling prices in some first home buyer suburbs raise questions about the 5 per cent deposit scheme and the risk of negative equity.The major political focus is One Nation's dramatic rise in the polls. Is it a genuine realignment of Australian politics, the biggest disruption since World War II, or partly a mirage inflated by social media, disinformation and frustration with the major parties? The Jacks examine what this means for the Liberal Party, why the conservative vote is splintering, and how Labor may benefit.In Victoria, the Jacks look at Moira Deeming, Matthew Guy, Jess Wilson, Jacinta Allan and the Big Build controversies that continue to put pressure on the state government. Overseas, they discuss Andy Burnham's UK program, Keir Starmer's defence spending claims, Trump's reliance on instinct over advice, AI-driven scrutiny of congressional stock trading, and Ukraine's drone strikes on Russian fuel infrastructure.The episode finishes with sport: Ben Stokes' international retirement, England's disastrous Test loss to New Zealand, the future of Bazball, World Cup football, State of Origin, AFL fixturing and Australia's women's cricket team reaching another final.

The 2026 political year has already been surprising. Labor passed changes to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount, which they had previously ruled out. The Liberals changed leaders again, and One Nation has seen a surge of support in multiple polls. Political editor Tom McIlroy speaks to press gallery colleagues Michelle Grattan, the chief political correspondent at the Conversation, and Melissa Clarke, political correspondent with ABC Radio National. They discuss their report card on the year so far, and the political contests to watch in the second half of the year

The 2026 political year has already been surprising. Labor passed changes to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount, which they had previously ruled out. The Liberals changed leaders again, and One Nation has seen a surge of support in multiple polls. Political editor Tom McIlroy speaks to press gallery colleagues Michelle Grattan, the chief political correspondent at The Conversation, and Melissa Clarke, political correspondent with ABC Radio National. They discuss their report card on the year so far, and the political contests to watch in the second half of the year

Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry discuss what led to the first drop in One Nation's poll numbers in more than a year, and why the voters turning away from Pauline Hanson are not turning back towards the Liberal party. They also examine the politics of falling house prices and why it may end up being a challenge for Labor

The government's capital gains tax and negative gearing changes are now legislated, and this week there has been some early data on how these changes are hitting the property market. Plus, Labor's compromise on gambling advertising reforms and Angus Taylor's leadership of the Liberal Party. Senior economics correspondent Shane Wright and federal political correspondent Natassia Chrysanthos join Jacqueline Maley to discuss. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government's capital gains tax and negative gearing changes are now legislated, and this week there has been some early data on how these changes are hitting the property market. Plus, Labor's compromise on gambling advertising reforms and Angus Taylor's leadership of the Liberal Party. Senior economics correspondent Shane Wright and federal political correspondent Natassia Chrysanthos join Jacqueline Maley to discuss. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hater isn't happy with his medical insurance, Simon Haight isn't giving up on the Liberal Party, and Christopher Lee isn't completely dead. Thanks to our sponsor Quokka Net One-off Show Support | Monthly Show Support Merch Store | Official Website

 * Community radio - 3CR 50th Anniversary* Housing nervous nellies* Europe - reality bites* "Headlock" - Primary School 101* "Australians are poorer." - Liberal Party gospel* Victorian liquidation sale?

The slight recovery in Labor's polling shifts assumptions about what's in store for the remainder of this parliamentary term.

Embarrassing scenes as the Victorian Premier was captured running away from reporters. Plus, can the Liberal Party save themselves from their polling nightmare?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of Socially Democratic covers a massive month in Australian politics: One Nation's rise, Pauline at the National Press Club, and a Victorian Labor leadership non-challenge that fizzled before it started.David Feeney is back on the Feeney Files with Jessie McCrone and host Stephen Donnelly.They cover:

Proven favourite Nick Cater turns up for the first time this year. Unsurprisingly, the Australian economy leads the discussion. We focus on the trio of hopeless politicians at the absolute peak of state power. Nick shares his reaction to Pauline Hanson, and Angus Taylor, the new leader of the Liberal Party. We touch on housing, jobs, tax, cost of living and mass immigration. We discuss AI and the difference it will make to the political landscape. And finally he addresses a most important question; is Australia still the place for Kiwis when they leave New Zealand. His response might surprise you. And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer. File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide. Listen here on iHeartRadio Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on BETOOTA TALKS, the former Liberal candidate for Sydney's Upper North Shore, Gisele Kapterian joins to talk about what drew her to the party - and why she has stayed. Kapterian has been put through the ringer in her effort to represent the people of the Bradfield electorate, and it looks like the old guard of the Liberals are just as difficult to win over as the new Teal voters. Is Kapterian the near extinct moderate politicians that the Coalition desperately needs? It looks like a thankless mission, but she's sticking with it Protect your security online with Bitdefender. Click Here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 Another mystery filing under seal from the government in the Abrego Garcia case hits the docket; Trump signs a new executive order ramping up the police state; Amazon was going to add tariff tax costs to their products until the White House talked Bezos out of it; DHS ran 1.3M foreign student names through a database to track criminal charges in order to target their visas; an Oklahoma city family is traumatized after an ICE raid on the wrong home; the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is suing the Trump regime after unlawful board firings; more dirt on former North Dakota senator Ray Holmberg - this time call logs showing conversations between him and the former state attorney general; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News. MSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlue Guest: Jess Piper The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper Blue Missouri @piperformissouri.bsky.social - BlueSky Piper For Missouri - facebook Jessica Piper (@piper_for_missouri) • Instagram Jess Piper (@jesspipermo) | TikTok Stories: Trump complained to Bezos before Amazon said it scrapped idea to display tariff cost | CNBC Kyle Cheney: "HAPPENING NOW: DHS official tells court that agency diverted 10-20 employees to run *1.3 million* names of foreign students…| BlueSky 'We're citizens!': Oklahoma City family traumatized after ICE raids home, but they weren't suspects | KFOR  Call logs show Holmberg, former AG communicated amid federal sex crime investigation | North Dakota Monitor Corporation for Public Broadcasting sues Trump after attempted board firings | The Washington Post Trump Issues Executive Order Ramping Up American Police State | Rolling Stone Mark Carney's Liberal Party wins federal election in Canada | AP News Reminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! patreon.com/muellershewrote Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:https://apple.co/3XNx7ckWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?https://patreon.com/thedailybeanshttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/https://apple.co/3UKzKt0 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.