282 episodes

Chit chat and debate about politics and culture in the US and UK, with Host Roifield Brown and guests.
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Mid-Atlantic - conversations about US, UK and world politics Roifield Brown

    • Society & Culture
    • 5.0 • 1 Rating

Chit chat and debate about politics and culture in the US and UK, with Host Roifield Brown and guests.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Israel Isolated - Is This The End for Netanyahu?

    Israel Isolated - Is This The End for Netanyahu?

    Host Roifield Brown looks into the escalating crisis in Gaza, its severe humanitarian implications, and the resulting shifts in Israel's global standing. Joined by Michael Kaplow of the Israel Policy Forum, the discussion centres on the unfolding human tragedy in Gaza, where an imminent famine threatens millions, and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) contemplate a new offensive amidst widespread food insecurity.
    The conversation navigates the intricate web of political manoeuvres by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in light of the United Nations Security Council's recent resolution, which the U.S., Israel's closest ally, notably chose not to veto. This resolution, demanding a ceasefire for the remainder of Ramadan, symbolises a significant pivot in international relations and showcases the nuanced dynamics at play within Israeli politics, especially considering Netanyahu's controversial leadership and the roles of right-extremist figures in his coalition.
    As the dialogue unfolds, Kaplow provides insightful analysis on the broader geopolitical context, the internal and external pressures facing Netanyahu, and the profound implications of the U.S.'s stance for Israeli domestic politics and its global image. The episode not only sheds light on the complex layers of the crisis but also delves into the potential paths forward amidst this geopolitical quagmire.

    Quotes:"This resolution, while short, is not merely symbolic; it's a seismic shift in the dynamics of U.S. and Israeli politics, challenging the very foundation of their longstanding alliance." - Michael Kaplow"Netanyahu's political gambits are not just about navigating the current crisis; they're about clinging to power by positing himself as Israel's sole defender against a world he portrays as antagonistic." - Michael Kaplow"The crux of the debate is not about whether an operation in Rafah should happen, but about when and at what cost, highlighting a rare consensus across the Israeli political spectrum amidst international contention." - Michael Kaplow"Criticism of Israel is not inherently anti-Semitic. The challenge lies in distinguishing between legitimate policy critiques and those that question Israel's very right to exist." - Michael Kaplow

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    • 50 min
    The Political Earthquakes in Ohio and the UK's Conservative Crisis

    The Political Earthquakes in Ohio and the UK's Conservative Crisis

    In this episode of "Mid Atlantic," host Roifield Brown, from Birmingham, engages in a riveting discussion on the latest political developments on both sides of the Atlantic, focusing on Bernie Moreno's recent victory in the Ohio GOP Senate primary and the unfolding challenges facing UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. With the insights of political analyst Aram Fischer, pollster Logan Phillips, and UK-based political consultants Leah Brown and Cory Bernard, the episode delves into the implications of Moreno's win, endorsed by Donald Trump, for the Ohio Republican Party and the broader American political landscape. The discussion also turns to the troubled waters Prime Minister Sunak navigates amidst internal dissent within the Conservative Party and looming local elections. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the Trump endorsement's impact, the dynamics of the Senate races, and the future of UK politics under Sunak's leadership.

    Quotes:Aram Fischer: "Ohio has been drifting to the right for a bunch of years now... the blue cities have stayed very blue, but the red areas of Ohio have gotten increasingly red."Logan Phillips: "Democrats could overperform in the right places here to have a shot at winning. They're underdogs, but they consistently have an edge in candidate recruitment."Leah Brown: "Rishi Sunak could have had a fundamentally different premiership. It's a masterclass in what does it look like to bring people along with you and to fail at that."Cory Bernard: "The Tory party...didn't have to be in this dire situation. Rishi Sunak had a clear two years and some change to set a vision... He's completely dropped the ball."

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    • 45 min
    Hesters Hate and The Reality for UK Black Politicians

    Hesters Hate and The Reality for UK Black Politicians

    Description:One week after Frank Hestor's attack on Diane Abbott, we explore the persistent challenges of racism and misogyny within the British political landscape. Our distinguished panel, featuring MP Claudia Webb, Leah Brown from Broadstairs Consulting, and political analyst Corey Bernard, look at the troubling experiences faced by black women in positions of power, particularly highlighting the distressing experiences of Diane Abbott. As we dissect the implications of leadership in combatting racial prejudice and examine the dichotomy of progress and persistent bigotry, this conversation sheds light on the intricate dynamics of race, identity, and politics in the UK.

    Show Notes:Claudia Webb MP shares her experiences of anti-black racism and misogyny as a black woman in Parliament, offering insights into the broader context of institutional racism and its impact on political figures.Discussion on the lack of leadership in addressing racism, with specific reference to recent comments by Tory donor Frank Hester and the response (or lack thereof) from political leaders.Leah Brown analyses the failure in political leadership and its connection to systemic issues, including conflicts of interest and the need for integrity and accountability.Corey Bernard reflects on the role of identity politics in the political spectrum and how expectations differ across party lines, offering a unique perspective on diversity within political leadership.Claudia Webb provides a closing statement, emphasising the need for genuine leadership to confront and eradicate racism and misogyny within the political arena.Final thoughts from host Roifield Brown and the importance of continued vigilance against racism and sexism in all sectors of society.
    QuotesClaudia Webb MP: "The level of anti-Black racism and misogyny that I experienced as a Black Member of Parliament on the left is probably unprecedented... Black women, particularly those in positions of power, are targeted for the most vile levels of hate, targeted not just for being black, but also for being female and having the audacity to be in a position of power and then having the audacity to be on the left as well."Leah Brown: "Lack of leadership is my favourite topic... The key area in which there has been lack of leadership shown here by the Prime Minister is in relation to conflicts of interest... Fundamentally if you can't address the conflicts of interest that arise in a way that doesn't give rise to toxic leadership, you also can't expect those same individuals to show leadership."Corey Bernard: "Identity politics in this context, leading with race or ethnicity, is definitely something perhaps more expected on the left, right? As opposed to on the right... People are not very comfortable, basically, when you show who you are in terms of your identity."Claudia Webb MP: "Black people in positions of leadership does not mean that we're going to see change. We are talking about a lack of political leadership, there are opportunists that are using this for political gain... Black people in positions of leadership does not necessarily mean that we're going to see change, we're talking about a minority, but we're talking about a lack of political leadership."

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    • 29 min
    Mitch McConnell Legacy and Controversy - Ira Shapiro

    Mitch McConnell Legacy and Controversy - Ira Shapiro

    Host Roifield Brown engages with Ira Shapiro, the author of "The Betrayal," to dissect the legacy of Senator Mitch McConnell. The discussion delves into McConnell's significant yet contentious 17-year tenure as the top Republican in the U.S. Senate, a period marked by strategic mastery and polarizing partisanship. Shapiro, offering insights from his comprehensive examination of McConnell's career, paints a portrait of a politician whose actions have indelibly shaped American politics.
    The episode explores McConnell's complex persona, acknowledging his unparalleled skill in navigating parliamentary procedure while critiquing his staunchly partisan approach. The conversation underscores McConnell's influential role in obstructing the Obama presidency and facilitating the Trump administration's judicial appointments, framing these actions as pivotal moments that define his legacy.
    The episode is an in-depth analysis of McConnell's first major political manoeuvre against campaign finance reform, highlighting his enduring impact on the role of money in politics. The episode also addresses McConnell's strategic decisions during key moments, such as the blocking of Merrick Garland's Supreme Court nomination, illustrating his prioritisation of party over country.
    The podcast provides a nuanced perspective on McConnell's legacy, balancing admiration for his political acumen with critical scrutiny of his partisanship and its implications for American democracy.

    Quotes"I have a sneaking admiration for Mitch McConnell. I think he is that Machiavellian master of the dark arts of parliamentary procedure. And there is something, even though I dislike every one of his policies, I admire him for that.""My problem is that Senator McConnell has functioned totally as a partisan. Our system is a little different and complicated because it requires some degree of minority cooperation." "He tarnished and diminished the Obama presidency through his obstruction. He made the Trump presidency through his ramming through of the Supreme Court nominees after blocking Merrick Garland's nomination.""The first and continuing work of McConnell has been to maximize the power of money in politics, and he was very successful at it."

    Further Reading"The Betrayal: How Mitch McConnell and the Senate Republicans Abandoned America" by Ira ShapiroThis book provides an in-depth look at McConnell's tenure and his impact on American politics, focusing on his actions during key moments and their implications for democracy. You can find it here on Amazon.


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    • 1 hr 10 min
    The 2024 Spring Budget with Raj Kandola: Insights and Implications

    The 2024 Spring Budget with Raj Kandola: Insights and Implications

    In this episode of Mid Atlantic, we welcome Raj Kandola, Director of External Affairs at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, to dissect the 2024 Spring Budget announced by UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. As the nation moves closer to the next general election, this budget has garnered attention for its strategic tax adjustments, investment allocations, and potential impacts on the economic landscape. Raj provides an expert analysis of how these fiscal policies may or may not shape the UK's economic resilience, influence the business community, and affect regional growth and development.

    Show Notes:Introduction to the episode and guest Raj Kandola.Overview of key budget announcements: NI reductions, child benefit threshold increases, extension of the cost of living support fund, adjustments in alcohol duty and property taxes.Raj Kandola's perspective on the budget's focus on household tax cuts and missed opportunities for business growth.Examination of positive initiatives in the budget, such as AI investment and support for workforce reintegration.Discussion on the Institute of Fiscal Studies' skepticism and the business community's sentiment towards the projected economic recovery.The sustainability of fiscal policy in light of significant public service cuts.The need for investment in regional infrastructure to address disparities, particularly between Birmingham and London.Raj's assessment of the budget's timing and potential implications for the upcoming general election.Conclusion: Raj Kandola's overall grade for the budget and its implications for UK businesses.How to connect with Raj Kandola and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce online.
    Quotes:"I think given the fact that we're facing the prospect of a general election at some point this year, it was no surprise to see the Chancellor use the limited fiscal headroom he's got to prioritise tax cuts for households." - Raj Kandola"From a business perspective, we can't help but feel he's missed a trick in really trying to unlock growth for businesses, not just in our region but across the country as well." - Raj Kandola"There's still a lot of challenges out there. There's still more support that businesses need." - Raj Kandola"We need a far more integrated transport system, which incorporates all modes, but also encourages people to get out of their cars, essentially, because, as Birmingham was renowned for being a city of the car." - Raj Kandola


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    • 13 min
    Super Tuesday Special: The Age Factor and Beyond - Steeve Hewitt

    Super Tuesday Special: The Age Factor and Beyond - Steeve Hewitt

    Today we look into the dynamics of the American presidential race, focusing on the Super Tuesday and the unique characteristics of this election cycle. Join us as we explore insights from Dr. Steve Hewitt, an associate professor of North American history at Birmingham University, shedding light on the age factor, potential legal challenges, and the evolving nature of political parties in the U.S. Don't miss this thought-provoking analysis that goes beyond the ballot box, offering a glimpse into the future of American democracy.

    Show Notes:Introduction to the special Super Tuesday episode.Overview of the event attended in Birmingham and introduction of Dr. Steve Hewitt.Discussion on the implications of having elderly candidates in the presidential race.Analysis of the potential legal and financial jeopardy faced by certain candidates.Insight into the changing relevance of political parties and the rise of independent voters.Predictions for the 2028 election and potential key players.Examination of the role of media and personality in politics.Consideration of the impact of Donald Trump on voter engagement and democratic participation.Concluding thoughts from Dr. Steve Hewitt and wrap-up.
    Quotes:"It's not been the most exciting choice and I think, certainly on the Democratic side, many would prefer to have a different candidate, but I think even many Republicans would as well.""It's a sort of gerontocracy. You've got these elderly gentlemen running who, Trump, I think is four years younger than Biden. And so it's not like a dynamic choice that reflects the wider population.""It's going to be absolutely fascinating, I think, come the autumn. And then, of course, do we have a repeat of 2020 where one of the candidates doesn't accept the result if it's a close election?""I think the Republican party is going to, it's become the party of Trump. It effectively is he, Trump owns it and it's almost like his personal fiefdom in a sense."
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    • 16 min

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