Has Trump given up on the midterms?
4/15/202629 min
Donald Trump is losing public support over the war in Iran, but how much does the president care? He said in a recent interview with Fox News that gas prices may be “a little bit higher” but has downplayed fears that high prices could cost Republicans at the midterm elections. With the U.S naval blockade in full swing - and Iran threatening to stop shipping in the Gulf in retaliation - the president’s latest assertion that the war is “very close to over” may be optimistic.
In today’s episode, Justin and Sarah discuss China’s involvement in the blockade, the mood amongst Republicans and whether the president will be able to convince voters in November that short-term pain is worth it for long-term national security. And, reports are emerging that four Senate races may fall in favour of the Democrats, including battles in Georgia and North Carolina, two states that Donald Trump won in the presidential election. Can the Democrats keep up their momentum later in the year?
HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor
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This episode was made by George Dabby with Alix Pickles and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Jonathan Greer. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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Clips
Transcript preview
First 90 secondsJustin Webb· Host0:00
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Speaker 10:03
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Speaker 20:20
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Donald Trump· Soundbite0:47
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Justin Webb· Host0:50
[jingle] Donald Trump says the Iran war is very close to over. He mentions talks expected in the coming days. But with the naval blockade in full swing, Iran is now itself threatening to stop shipping in the Gulf if the US doesn't back down. Is Donald Trump in the mood to back down? The Republican Party is nervous. Gas prices are high. Can he afford for the war to go on? Welcome to Americast.
Speaker 11:18
[upbeat music] Americast. Americast from BBC News.
Donald Trump· Soundbite1:23
You hear that sound? Oh, I think when I hear that sound, it reminds me of money.
Speaker 21:28
We didn't start this war,