This week Chris Wright is joined by the China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at The Times, Richard Spencer, co-presenter of “Weekend Breakfast” on Times Radio, Rosie Wright, and Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan.

This week, we ask whether Donald Trump's strikes on Iran squandered a rare chance for America to unite ahead of its 250th anniversary, and why politics continues to overshadow what should have been a triumphant World Cup. We also examine Nigel Farage's surprise by-election gamble against Count Binface, whether mounting financial scrutiny could become a genuine political problem, and why Andy Burnham is suddenly being talked about as Labour's next great hope. Finally, we explore whether a summer of sporting success could give Britain the lift it needs—or even spark a "Burnham Boost."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Trump
02:20 Trump's Challenges in Iran and Global Perception
05:17 Media Coverage and Trump's Communication Style
09:43 Trump's Influence on Football and FIFA
18:24 Nigel Farage's Political Maneuvering and By-Election
23:59 Public Sentiment and Political Integrity
29:57 The Political Landscape in Clacton
32:42 The Implications of By-Elections
35:37 The Role of Money in Politics
40:14 The Future of Andy Burnham
46:51 The Dynamics of Leadership and Policy
53:10 The Road Ahead for Devolution and Governance

'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.

© Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.

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