ABC News Daily

In the United States, they’re calling it the 'Mamdani effect' - a surge in support for democratic socialist candidates. And here, the Greens are hoping for their own Zohran Mamdani moment, with the party’s think tank pitching an Australian version of the New York mayor’s plan for publicly owned supermarkets. Today columnist, author and academic Waleed Aly on whether the Greens have found a winning formula, as support for One Nation continues to grow. Featured: Waleed Aly, co-host of The Minefield on ABC Radio National, a lecturer in politics at Monash University.

An electric car is now being sold every 100 seconds, with sales roughly doubling in the second quarter of this year and outstripping petrol and diesel cars for the first time in August. But as motorists look to escape soaring fuel costs, partly due to the Iran war, do we have the chargers needed to sustain the rapid surge? Today, ABC energy reporter Daniel Mercer on the plans for a mass rollout of EV infrastructure and who should pay for it. Featured: Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter

In the US, the case has ignited a national debate over consent, with some asking whether this could be a new #MeToo moment. At Cornell University, protests have erupted after a woman identified as Jane Doe alleged she was sexually assaulted by seven male students who belonged to a campus fraternity. Today, New York Times journalist Hurubie Meko takes us through the case, and we speak to Chanel Contos, founder of Teach Us Consent, about why the outrage is now crossing borders. Featured: Hurubie Meko, New York Times reporter and Chanel Contos, Teach Us Consent founder

Donald Trump has told voters to ‘pretend’ he is on the ballot at the midterm elections which are now less than a month away. But that’s not useful for some Republican candidates who’ve been trying to distance themselves from the President, given his declining polling numbers. Today, staff writer at the Atlantic magazine, David A. Graham on whether there’ll be a blue wave come November with the Democrats taking control of the House and the Senate. Featured: David A. Graham, The Atlantic magazine staff writer

A plan for a data centre metres from homes and a school in Lane Cove has been shelved after residents of the Sydney suburb fought back and won. But it’s just one proposal among many, as demand for AI drives a boom in data centre construction across Australia. Today, we hear from a Lane Cove resident, and ask the ABC’s national AI reporter Cam Wilson just how many data centres we could end up with. Featured: Sasha Titchkosky, Lane Cove resident and Cam Wilson, the ABC’s national AI reporter

Donald Trump says the US is in an AI race against China and he doesn’t want regulation that would risk American dominance. But Beijing is taking a very different approach with the Chinese Communist Party exerting tight control over the sector. Today, Alvin Wang Graylin from Stanford’s Human-centered AI institute on what that means for which country is best place to stop AI going rogue. Featured: Alvin Wang Graylin, Senior Fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute and a digital fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI

A flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv has turned into a terrifying high-altitude struggle when one of the pilots was attacked in the cockpit by his co-pilot. Passengers were fighting to help crew regain control of the plane as it plunged 17,000 feet before making an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Today, counterterrorism expert Greg Barton on what we know about this mid-air attack and what it could mean for security in the region. Featured: Greg Barton, Rector of Deakin University Lancaster University Indonesia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing renewed political scrutiny after media investigations reported that he and his government were warned about an impending large-scale Hamas attack before October 7. The reports say Egypt’s former intelligence chief travelled to Jerusalem days before the attack to issue a warning, while the UAE president allegedly alerted Netanyahu personally. Netanyahu has dismissed the claims as ‘absolute lies.’ Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute on what the allegations could mean for Netanyahu, with an election due in Israel this month. Featured: Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute.

There’s been another interest rate rise, pushing it to the highest it’s been in 15 years. It’s partly thanks to Trump’s war in Iran fuelling global inflation, but the conflict is not the only thing putting pressure on interest rates. Artificial Intelligence is a factor too. Today, the ABC’s finance expert Alan Kohler on how AI impact rates and why it might also be the reason they fall again Featured: Alan Kohler, ABC News Finance presenter

Donald Trump has promised he can use his negotiating skills to end wars. But his approach is facing a major test on two fronts. He’s rejected Iran’s latest proposal to halt the fighting and reopen negotiations, while there’s still no breakthrough in efforts to get Russia and Ukraine back to a peace deal. Today, international relations expert Rajan Menon on whether the president can actually deliver peace in either conflict. Featured: Rajan Menon, Professor Emeritus of International Relations at the City College of New York

We're being warned that AI could wipe out humanity. But some of the very same experts sounding the alarm are also predicting AI will help cure cancer within the next decade. So, how will these competing visions of destruction and salvation play out? And is a cure for cancer really within AI’s reach? Today, doctor and researcher Emilia Javorsky joins us to separate the reality from the hype. Featured: Emilia Javorsky, the Director of the Futures Program at The Future of Life Institute – a nonprofit aimed at reducing AI risks.

The Australian government is grappling with how to safeguard sensitive data, after revelations an AI agent controlled by OpenAI accessed private Medicare statistics. It took months for a breach to be identified and alerted to the highest levels of government and comes as the world grapples with controlling the rapid growth of AI technology. Today, national security and AI policy expert Olivia Shen, on whether governments can keep up with the accelerating advance of AI. Featured: Olivia Shen, Director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.

Donald Trump’s decade-long war with the press has a new front, with three US media outlets suing after being banned by the White House, prompting a broader media boycott. In response, the US President has launched his own 24/7 streaming channel called Trump TV. Today, Reporters Without Borders executive director for North America, Clayton Weimers, on who will lose the most from Trump’s war on the press. Featured: Clayton Weimers, Reporters Without Borders executive director for North America

ABC News Daily examines the recent surge in domestic violence fatalities across New South Wales, following a weekend of multiple tragic incidents involving women and children. The episode explores the systemic challenges facing federal and state governments in implementing effective prevention and intervention strategies. Reporter Claudia Long discusses the complexities of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, weighing the arguments for a Royal Commission against the need for immediate action on existing recommendations. The discussion covers the impact of major sporting events on violence spikes, the difficulties of inter-jurisdictional policy coordination, and the political challenges of maintaining momentum for such a critical issue in the face of news fatigue.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, finance expert Alan Kohler discusses the escalating global economic pressures driven by conflict in the Middle East and its impact on oil prices. The expansion of instability into the Red Sea is driving up fuel costs, which in turn threatens to increase inflation and necessitate further interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia. The discussion also covers the broader global trend of rising interest rates, the implications of US Federal Reserve policies, and the potential for an Australian recession. Kohler highlights how declining productivity, reduced net overseas migration, and rising bond yields are creating a challenging economic landscape for Australian households.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews Michael Milford, Professor of Robotics and Director of the QUT Centre for Robotics, regarding the global expansion of autonomous robo-taxis. The discussion explores the current deployment of driverless vehicles in London and San Francisco, examining the sophisticated sensor technology and AI required to navigate complex urban environments. The conversation also addresses the potential arrival of these technologies in Australia, weighing the technical feasibility against regulatory hurdles, safety concerns involving pedestrians and animals, and the legal complexities of liability. The episode considers the broader societal implications, including job disruption within the taxi industry and the potential for reducing fatalities caused by human error.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews Nate Soares, author of 'If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies', regarding the escalating global AI race between the United States and China. The discussion explores the stark warnings from AI researchers at companies like Anthropic, who suggest a significant risk of existential catastrophe, contrasted against the political rhetoric of Donald Trump, who dismisses these concerns as a hoax. Soares addresses the tension between AI executives and engineers, the potential for international regulation similar to nuclear arms control, and the risks associated with superintelligent systems that could manipulate human infrastructure. The conversation covers the economic incentives driving the hardware industry, specifically NVIDIA, and concludes with a warning about the consequences of a winner-take-all race toward unaligned superintelligence.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, columnist and former Labor advisor Sean Kelly discusses the shifting political landscape surrounding Pauline Hanson and One Nation. The conversation explores recent controversies involving personal attacks by Hanson against individuals such as Andrew Hastie and Anthony Albanese's mother, and how these incidents have altered the response strategies of Australia's major political parties. Kelly analyzes whether the move from racialized rhetoric to personal insults provides a new opening for the Liberal and Labor parties to push back. The discussion also touches upon One Nation's recent policy announcements regarding immigration, tobacco taxes, and superannuation, as well as the broader implications of political polarization and the potential rise of far-right movements in Australia.

Former US Special Envoy to Yemen, Tim Lenderking, joins the program to discuss the escalating threats to global energy supplies and shipping routes. The discussion focuses on the recent expansion of Houthi rebel control in the Red Sea, specifically the capture of the coastal town of Mokka, and its impact on the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The episode examines how these geopolitical tensions in Yemen and the ongoing conflict involving Iran are creating a double choke point for global commerce alongside the Strait of Hormuz. Lenderking analyzes the economic implications for international oil prices, the potential for increased fuel costs in the United as well as Australia, and the political ramifications for the upcoming US midterm elections.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews philosopher Nick Bostrom regarding the existential risks posed by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. The discussion explores the concept of recursive self-improvement and the potential for superintelligence to outpace human control, specifically focusing on threats such as the misuse of open-weight models for biological warfare and the long-term risk of human disempowerment. Bostrom examines the competitive dynamics between AI labs and nations like the US and China, which may prevent unilateral safety slowdowns. While acknowledging the extreme upside of AI—including potential cures for major diseases and advancements in clean energy—the conversation emphasizes the urgent need for international safety standards, third-party evaluations, and alignment research to mitigate the possibility of catastrophic outcomes.

This episode of ABC News Daily explores the intensifying political debate surrounding migration in Australia. The discussion focuses on how post-pandemic shifts, including the reopening of borders and a surge in net overseas migration, have intersected with housing shortages and infrastructure pressures to make immigration a central political issue. The segment features insights from David Spears regarding the complexities of managing migration numbers, the difficulty of controlling certain visa streams like New Zealanders and backpackers, and the varying political stances held by the Labor government, the Coalition, and One Nation.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews Nate Swanson, a former Iran negotiator who served across the Obama, Biden, and Trump administrations. The discussion focuses on the current state of the conflict in Iran and its implications for Donald Trump's political future as he campaigns for the midterms in Texas. Swanson analyzes Trump's shifting rhetoric regarding military victory versus economic pressure, noting that the president's focus appears to have shifted toward private building projects. The conversation explores the economic consequences of the war, including rising oil prices and the impact on the US cost of living, as well as the potential for Iran to escalate tensions or for regional powers to seek independent deals outside of US influence.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sydney Pede interviews digital communications expert Daniel Angus about proposed Australian government legislation aimed at regulating social media algorithms. The discussion explores the evolution of recommendation engines from simple chronological feeds to sophisticated systems that can create echo chambers and expose young people to harmful content. The conversation covers the 'My Feed, My Way' proposal, which seeks to give users an opt-out option for algorithmic recommendations. While Angus praises the move toward user empowerment and agency, he cautions against viewing algorithms as a 'silver bullet' for societal issues like misogyny and polarization, noting that these systems primarily reflect existing cultural norms.

This episode of ABC News Daily explores the escalating political debate surrounding superannuation in Australia, triggered by a new policy proposal from One Nation. The party suggests allowing renters and mortgage holders early access to a portion of their retirement savings to alleviate cost-of-living pressures. Former political strategist Cole Samaras joins the program to analyze whether such proposals are effective or merely a 'battle of Band-Aids' that risk long-term economic stability. The discussion covers the potential inflationary impacts of withdrawing funds from the superannuation system, the reactions from major political parties including Labor and the Coalition, and the broader trend of political parties adopting populist policies. Samaras provides insight into voter sentiment, particularly among Gen X Australians facing significant mortgage burdens, and examines the risks of political parties using retirement savings as a tool to address systemic economic challenges.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley sits down with Justin Wolfers, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Michigan, to examine the global bond sell-off and its implications for the economy. The discussion explores the mechanics of the bond market using an apple analogy to explain how rising government borrowing drives up interest rates globally. The conversation delves into the massive scale of US national debt, distinguishing between gross and net debt, and evaluates the impact of political factors such as Trump-era tax cuts and recent Treasury interventions. Finally, the episode assesses the potential consequences for Australia, discussing how global market shifts influence domestic mortgage rates and why the stability of the US economy remains a critical concern for the Australian financial landscape.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, economist David Autor discusses the emergence of 'China Shock 2.0.' While the first China shock was characterized by a flood of low-cost consumer goods that disrupted manufacturing sectors in the United States, the second wave focuses on cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and renewable energy components. Autor explores the profound implications for national security, innovation, and global power dynamics. He examines how China's strategic state investment and massive trade surplus create significant pressure on industrialized economies like the US, Europe, and Australia. The discussion covers the risks of losing frontier capabilities, the weaponization of supply chains such as rare earth metals, and the difficulty of forming a global coalition to address trade imbalances and market protections.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the growing turmoil within the Pentagon under US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Featuring insights from The Atlantic's Missy Ryan, the discussion explores the recent resignation of Dan Driscoll and the widespread purging of senior military officers, with estimates suggesting up to 80 leaders have been affected. The report investigates the tension between Hegseth's 'warrior ethos' agenda and the strategic needs of a modernizing military, particularly amidst ongoing conflict with Iran. The conversation also touches upon Donald Trump's continued support for Hegseth and the potential political implications for the MAGA movement following these leadership shifts.

An investigation into the rise and fall of steel tycoon Sanjeev Gupta and his impact on the South Australian town of Whyalla. Former Media Watch host Paul Barry, author of The Big Steel, details how Gupta promised massive investments and a green industrial revolution to save the local steelworks, only to leave the industry in financial ruin. The episode explores the symbiotic and disastrous relationship between Gupta and financier Lex Greensill, the subsequent collapse of their interconnected financial empire, and the current uncertain future of the Whyalla steelworks as it faces potential insolvency and reliance on government intervention.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, scientist and mountaineer Dr. John All discusses the devastating impact of recent flash floods in Nepal and Tibet. Following a catastrophic glacier collapse that has left hundreds dead and thousands missing, Dr. All shares insights from his extensive research on Himalayan melting patterns. The conversation explores the role of black carbon and pollution in accelerating glacial loss, the physical dangers of high-altitude climate science, and the urgent need for adaptation as lower-altitude glaciers face disappearance within decades.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the significant political shift in Western Australia following One Nation's historic victory in the Secret Harbour by-election. Featuring Chief Political Correspondent Michelle Grattan, the discussion explores how the party secured a massive 40% primary vote, signaling a growing threat to both Labor and the Coalition. The analysis delves into the motivations behind this protest and grievance vote, the economic frustrations driving voters, and the potential implications for upcoming state elections in Victoria and New South Wales, as well as the federal landscape leading toward 2028.

This episode of ABC News Daily explores the growing political and social backlash against data center construction in the United States and Australia. Featuring Nicole Turner-Lee, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, the discussion highlights how communities are increasingly protesting these facilities due to concerns over energy consumption, water usage, noise, and rising electricity costs. The conversation delves into the bipartisan nature of this issue in the US, where both Democrats and Republicans are using data center opposition as a campaign strategy. The episode also touches upon the potential for economic benefits, such as infrastructure investment, while emphasizing the importance of proactive regulation and community negotiation to ensure these developments do not exploit local populations.

In this episode of Politics Now, host Patricia Carvellis and The New Yorker staff writer Jason Zegurlia examine the shifting political landscape within the MAGA movement following Donald Trump's military campaign in Iran. The discussion focuses on media personality Tucker Carlson, analyzing his recent criticisms of Trump's foreign policy and the speculation surrounding a potential 2028 or 2032 presidential bid. The conversation explores Carlson's evolving relationship with Trump, from early support to recent friction over civilian infrastructure targets in Tehran. Zegurlia details Carlson's pursuit of an isolationist, nationalist third party and his 'manifesto' of ten principles, while weighing the immense difficulty of running a conservative campaign while being at odds with the current leader of the Republican Party.

Politics Now explores the escalating trade war between Canada and the United States, focusing on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to reject US tariff proposals and implement retaliatory measures. The discussion examines the political motivations behind Carney's stance, the impact of US levies on symbolic goods, and the role of Canadian provincial leaders like Ontario's Doug Ford in resisting American economic pressure. The episode also evaluates the implications for Australia, comparing Canada's aggressive retaliation to Australia's current position regarding US tariffs linked to forced labour laws. Through an interview with David Smith from the United States Studies Centre, the program analyzes whether middle powers can unite against unilateral trade actions or if economic integration and political incentives will eventually force a diplomatic resolution.

ABC News Daily explores the landmark US court case involving 29 states suing Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. The lawsuit alleges that Meta intentionally designed addictive technologies that harm children's mental health and exposes them to unwanted sexual advances. Featuring insights from tech reporter Dara Kerr, the episode examines the testimony of whistleblower Arturo Beha, a former Meta safety engineer, and discusses the potential for massive financial penalties and fundamental changes to social media business models. The discussion draws parallels between this litigation and the historic tobacco industry lawsuits, focusing on product liability rather than content. The report covers the legal strategies used by state attorneys general, the significance of internal documents revealing company awareness of harm, and the broader implications for global tech regulation and platform design.

ABC News Daily explores the escalating scandal involving several Sydney Swans players following allegations of sexual assault and drug use. The report details the recent press conference held by AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, who has distanced the league from the club's actions while awaiting the outcome of a Victoria Police investigation. Investigative reporter Jessica Halloran examines the implications for the AFL's integrity, the potential impact on major sponsorships, and the debate surrounding the implementation of a no-fault stand-down policy similar to that used in the NRL.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews Seri Bashi, an Israeli-American human rights lawyer and executive director of the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel, regarding escalating tensions in the West Bank. The discussion covers recent incidents of settler violence in villages like Qusra, the legal status of Israeli settlements under international law, and the impact of the Netanyahu government's policies on Palestinian communities. Bashi provides insight into the expansion of settlement projects like E1, the role of the IDF in managing these territories, and the broader implications for a potential two-state solution amidst rising political instability and upcoming elections in Israel.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, host Sam Hawley interviews Michael Green, CEO of the US Studies Centre at Sydney University, regarding Donald Trump's increasingly volatile diplomatic relations with key allies. The discussion explores Trump's recent rhetoric concerning Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, his threats toward Oman, and the scaling back of military exercises with South Korea. Green provides analysis on the motivations behind these actions, suggesting they are often performative or driven by personal frustration rather than geopolitical strategy. The conversation also covers the implications for Australia, specifically regarding Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's recent communications with Trump and the potential impact of proposed US tariffs on Australian exports.

In this episode of Politics Now, host Patricia Carvellis and former Liberal Party strategist Tony Barry discuss the rising political influence of Pauline Hanson and One Nation. The conversation focuses on how recent polling shows a significant portion of Australians prefer Hanson's stance on immigration over the major parties, driven by cost-of-living pressures and housing affordability. Barry analyzes the historical context of immigration politics, comparing the current climate to the Howard era and discussing how the major parties have failed to effectively communicate the benefits of skilled migration. The discussion also touches upon the strategic challenges facing both Labor and the Coalition in reclaiming the political narrative from anti-establishment movements.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines serious sexual assault allegations involving four players from the Sydney Swans and explores the broader cultural issues within the AFL. The discussion features sports expert Matthew Klugman and player agent Peter Jess, focusing on the systemic failures, the lack of accountability for high-profile figures, and the disparity between the men's and women's competitions. The report investigates whether current safety protocols are sufficient or if they merely act as band-aids on deep-seated issues of entitlement and sexism within Australian rules football.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the legal appeal of Erin Patterson, who was convicted of murdering three lunch guests via poisonous mushrooms. Featuring insights from criminologist and lawyer Dr. Brianna Chesser, the discussion explores the seven grounds of appeal presented by the defense, including allegations of prosecutorial misconduct regarding motive, the admissibility of social media and cell tower evidence, and concerns over jury sequestration at a shared hotel. The program also considers the potential outcomes for the Court of Appeal, ranging from a dismissed appeal to a quashed conviction or even an increased sentence.

This episode of ABC News Daily explores the evolving landscape of modern warfare through the lens of drone technology in the Ukraine conflict. Featuring Anne Applebaum, a staff writer at The Atlantic, the discussion examines how Russian drones are being used to target civilians and first responders, marking a shift toward more predatory and personalized aerial surveillance. The conversation also delves into the rapid, decentralized development of the Ukrainian drone industry as a response to asymmetric warfare needs. The segment further investigates the broader global implications of accessible drone technology, including its potential use by terrorists, criminals, or paramilitary groups. Applebaum highlights the tension between Ukraine's successful model of inexpensive, rapidly updated drone production and the traditional, expensive procurement methods used by major world powers like the United States. The episode concludes with a warning about the lack of global preparedness for this new era of technological mayhem.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the political controversy known as Melongate, stemming from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's appearance on the comedy podcast Bush Deep. The discussion explores the fallout from hand gestures and comments made during the interview, which have been characterized by critics and a former Japanese ambassador as disrespectful and belittling. The analysis covers the diplomatic implications between Australia and Japan, the potential for internal Labor Party unease, and the risks political figures face when attempting to engage with new media platforms like podcasts and influencers. The segment also touches upon the Prime Minister's broader pattern of handling controversial public moments and his refusal to issue a formal apology.

ABC News Daily explores a recent investigative report from The Washington Post regarding a secretive operation involving Donald Trump's travel. White House reporter Dan Diamond details how the former president allegedly used an old Air Force One aircraft as a decoy to protect himself from credible Iranian threats, effectively leaving journalists and officials on a plane that was potentially at risk. The discussion covers the implications of this lack of transparency, the changing relationship between the Trump administration and the press corps, and the broader political consequences of the ongoing conflict with Iran.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, finance expert Alan Kohler joins host Sam Hawley to analyze the deepening downturn in the Australian housing market. The discussion covers recent property price declines across major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, examining the impact of higher interest rates and recent federal budget changes on investor behavior. Kohler also explores broader economic shifts, including why the era of ultra-low interest rates may be over due to massive global investments in AI and defense. The conversation extends to the complexities of immigration targets, the critical shortage of skilled construction workers, and the long-term outlook for housing affordability and market stability.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the shifting political landscape regarding gambling regulation in Australia following powerful Senate inquiry testimony from former NRL player Luke Bateman. The discussion explores allegations of predatory practices by betting agencies, including the use of VIP inducements and illegal offers involving drugs to maintain high-roller engagement. Correspondent Claire Armstrong analyzes Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's legislative approach, weighing the economic interests of media and sporting bodies against the need for reform. The report details the current state of the proposed bill, which targets advertising limits on television and online platforms, and highlights the growing political pressure from the Greens and the Coalition to strengthen protections against gambling harms.

This episode of ABC News Daily explores the bizarre political landscape surrounding an upcoming by-election in Clacton, UK. The discussion focuses on the unlikely contest between Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and the satirical candidate Count Binface, a man dressed as a bin. The conversation delves into the controversies facing Farage, including parliamentary investigations into undeclared donations totaling millions of pounds, and the broader rise of populist movements in British politics. Co-host Gemma Forte provides analysis on the motivations behind Count Binface's candidacy, the potential impact of far-right political shifts, and the implications of the ongoing financial scrutiny surrounding Farage. The episode also touches upon the economic consequences of Brexit and the shifting dynamics within the UK's political parties.

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the rising influence of democratic socialist candidates in American politics, focusing on Abdul El-Sayed's narrow victory in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary. The discussion explores the 'Mamdani effect' following Zoran Mamdani's mayoral win in New York and evaluates whether these progressive movements represent a genuine threat to the Republican Party or a strategic opportunity for them to use anti-communist rhetoric to energize their base. Through an analysis of recent electoral shifts, the program investigates the internal dynamics of the Democratic Party, including debates over Israel, policing, and immigration. The conversation also considers the long-term implications for the 2028 presidential election, weighing the potential for figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to lead a new populist wave against the risk of alienating moderate and working-class voters.

In this episode of Politics Now, host Sam Hawley and former ABC correspondent Monica Attard discuss Senator Pauline Hanson's recent decision to bar journalists from The Age, The Guardian, and the ABC from her press conference in Victoria. The discussion explores whether this tactic, reminiscent of Donald Trump's approach to the media, is a strategic political move or an authoritarian blow to democratic norms. Attard examines the implications of Hanson favoring advocacy-based outlets like Rebel News over traditional news organizations and considers the potential for a journalistic boycott as a means to protect the integrity of the fourth estate.

In this episode of ABC News Daily, epidemiologist Rhiner McIntyre discusses the escalating threat of the H5N1 bird flu strain in Australia. Following a mass mortality event involving seabirds in South Australia, the discussion explores how the virus is moving through migratory routes and establishing local transmission among endemic species. The conversation covers the potential impact on native wildlife, such as emus and Tasmanian devils, as well as the significant risks to commercial poultry and dairy industries. McIntyre presents predictive modeling that identifies high-risk hotspots for poultry outbreaks around Sydney, Melbourne, and Tasmania. The episode also examines the broader implications for food security, the economic consequences of potential livestock losses, and the lessons learned from international outbreaks in the US.

In this episode of Politics Now, host Patricia Carvellis and energy expert Sol Kavanagh examine the escalating global fuel crisis triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The discussion explores how the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on maritime vessels are driving up oil prices, with potential impacts on Australian petrol and diesel costs reaching $2.50 a litre. The conversation covers the depletion of global fuel reserves, the strategic importance of China's stockpiles, and the implications of the end of the Australian fuel excise cut. Kavanagh discusses the necessity of moving from just-in-time to just-in-case supply chains, the potential for new domestic refineries in Western Australia, and the long-term challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles in sectors like aviation and heavy transport.