The Explanation

Could Texas really go blue? Are Democrats at risk in Michigan? A week out from the 2026 US midterms, Sumi Somaskanda and Caitriona Perry look at the key states – and seats – at play in the 2026 US midterms.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected] Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the challenges facing Ukraine in the war with Russia as winter approaches, analyses the causes of the widespread protests in France, and looks at the unexpected victory for President Lula in the Brazilian election.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

Lewis Goodall presenter of “The News Agents” podcast and Krishnan Guru-Murthy presenter of Channel 4 News discuss whether traditional TV news remains fit for purpose in the digital and social media era. And as Blue Planet III returns to BBC One, we talk to Jack Bootle, the BBC’s Head of Specialist Factual Commissioning. He explains how the series was made without generative AI and gives a behind-the-scenes peek into producing the natural history veteran David Attenborough.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Content Producer: Emily Channon Editor: Gavin Poncia Researcher: Cameron Taylor Sound: Callum Mclean...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann take a closer look at how President Trump’s tough stance on immigration is impacting lives and politics. Sumi joins us from Florida, where she’s been hearing from voters firsthand on what is driving their decision at the polls.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the toll on Saudi Arabia of ongoing Houthi attacks, explores whether the Japanese will end their post-war pacifism, and looks at the possible effects on English football of Manchester City being found guilty of breaching financial rules.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

This week the BBC announced more cuts as part of its drive to save £500 million, following on from a series of other budget saving measures over the last few months. Katie and Ros take stock of everything announced so far along with a panel of experts: ex-BBC executive Roger Mosey, MP for Southport Patrick Hurley, Baroness Morgan, former Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the BBC Deputy Director General Rhodri Talfan-Davies.

And a new Channel 4 programme investigates public attitudes toward disability. The creators of The Experiment have built a fictional care home for d...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss how the issue of affordability is playing out in different parts of the US - and shaping voters' views. Will voters punish the president and his team at the ballot box?

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected] Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson explores the effect on civilians of Russia’s intense bombardment of Ukrainian cities, looks at how Turkey has become a more authoritarian state, and analyses China’s decision to regulate AI chatbots.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

Writer and producer Russell T Davies reflects on his career, from the groundbreaking series Queer as Folk to the revival of Doctor Who, Years and Years and his latest Channel 4 drama Tip Toe.

The BBC has issued an apology for making false and defamatory allegations about the founder of PinkNews and his husband. Katy Searle, Head of Opinion at The i, and legal expert Clive Coleman assess the editorial and legal implications of the case.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Tim Bano Content Producer: Lucy Wai Editor: Gavin Poncia Researcher: Ruth Waites Sound...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann look at the Democrats' race to the midterms. The party is eyeing some key victories in races across the country, to secure control of either the House or Senate – or both – come November. Recent polls appear promising, but what is deciding voters’ minds about who will get their vote – or if they will even head to the polls? Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You...

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores how Israeli attitudes have changed three years on from the 7 October attacks, analyses the possible impacts of the midterm elections on the Trump presidency, and examines the civil war in Yemen.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

Six months after Péter Magyar’s election ended Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule, Hungary’s new government faces scrutiny over its promised press reforms. BBC East and Central Europe Correspondent Nick Thorpe reports from Budapest on how the country’s media is changing.

Broadcaster Anneka Rice reflects on fifty years since joining the BBC as a trainee, tracing her career across television and radio and the changes she has witnessed in British broadcasting.

As the Cornell rape investigation continues, journalism experts including Dr Robert Topinka of Birkbeck, University of London, and Professor Kathleen Bartzen Cu...

Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann examine the role President Trump is playing in the race to November’s midterm elections. They discuss whether his endorsement is helping Republican candidates, look at the key battleground races, and explore the issues likely to matter most to voters.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the impact of intensifying Russian attacks on Ukraine, analyses the state of the relationship between China and the United States, and examines the possibility of renewed civil war in Ethiopia.

The Premier League alleges that Manchester City arranged sham contracts with commercial partners to conceal more than £830 million in funding. BBC Sport’s Laura Scott, Der Spiegel journalist Christoph Winterbach, Nick Harris from Sporting Intelligence, and Sky News sports correspondent Rob Harris explain how the story developed and the media’s role in reporting it over time. Also on the programme With Celebrity Traitors and Strictly Come Dancing returning to television, celebrity talent executive Stefania Aleksander describes the process of selecting the personalities who help make these entertainment formats successful, and the behind-the-scenes work that shapes some of the UK’s...

Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Trump's big week on the international stage, from the United Nations General Assembly to hosting China's president at the White House. They examine how the US president is managing friends and rivals, and grappling with an increasingly complex global landscape.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the state of Germany’s government after resounding regional election defeats, looks at the effect of American cutbacks on the of future of the United Nations, and examines what we can learn from the tightly controlled elections in Russia.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

The publication of Earl Spencer’s book about Princess Diana, serialised by the Daily Mail, has reignited debate over who shapes her legacy. BBC Royal Correspondent Sean Coughlan, Evening Standard Royal Editor Robert Jobson and media lawyer Mark Stephens discuss the competing narratives in the press and legal implications.

The small village of Piddington in the UK has drawn global attention over plans to house more than a thousand asylum seekers. Guardian journalist Amelia Gentleman and BBC South’s Jamie Morris report on how a local dispute became an international story.

Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros...

Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann discuss the European Union's ambition for Canada to become its first-ever "associate member", a status that does not currently exist. They examine what such a partnership could mean for Canada, President Trump’s reaction, and whether deeper ties with Europe could reshape Canada's future relationship with its neighbour. Senior producer: James Kraft Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the impact of the latest outbreak of hostilities in Yemen, examines whether there is any hope for a Palestinian state in the Middle East, and explores the potential dangers of artificial intelligence.

Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

The right of reply has long been a cornerstone of journalism, giving those involved in a story the chance to respond before publication. But with politicians and public figures now using social media to publish their own version first, is this principle being undermined? Guto Harri, former Downing Street Director of Communications, Professor Karen Fowler-Watt from City St George’s, University of London, and journalist Matt Shea assess how the practice is changing. As streaming services compete for attention, TV remotes usually now include buttons for platforms like Netflix and YouTube, often paid for by the services themselves. UK br...

Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann reflect on the legacy of the 9/11 attacks 25 years on, examining their lasting impact on US society and foreign policy, and how that day reshaped the course of the world.

In 1964, a group of seven-year-olds appeared in a TV documentary about class in Britain. The cameras returned every seven years to see how their lives had changed. Now, more than 60 years later, 70 Up brings the project to an end. Jo Clinton-Davis, Controller of Factual at ITV, talks about the people who took part and the legacy of a remarkable TV experiment.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has given an interview to Katie Razzall and The Media Show. She talks about BBC funding and cuts, its place in the UK media landscape, and proposals for a UK streaming service...

Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann answer your questions on Trump’s presidency and examine the key issues that could shape the midterms, from his approach to foreign policy and relations with US allies to the domestic political battles and key races to watch.

Senior producer: James Kraft Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

“Meat proxy” is a new term coined to describe someone who acts as a human conduit for material generated by AI. Software engineer Niklas Gruhn, who came up with the phrase, joins Will Oremus, staff writer at The Atlantic and Fortune’s executive editorial director Diane Brady, to discuss how much AI is being used in journalism and when readers should be told about it.

Five years after US troops withdrew from Afghanistan and the Taliban returned to power, Lyse Doucet has been back in the country, including visiting one of the secret schools set up for girls...

Mark Carney’s tough response to Donald Trump signals an escalation to the trade war between Canada and the United States. What does the dispute could mean for people and businesses on both sides of the border? What impact could the tariffs have on Trump’s midterm prospects? Could Canada could turn to other trading partners and European allies for support? Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Whitehouse correspondent Bernd Debusmann explore.

A special show from the Edinburgh TV Festival, where some of the industry’s biggest players have gathered from around the world to debate the future of television. YouTube now has 2.7 billion monthly active users, watching more than a billion hours of video every day, and many in the industry are asking whether it has become “the new TV”.

Alison Lomax, Managing Director of YouTube UK and Ireland, gives the platform’s perspective on its growth, its algorithm and its relationship with creators. Claire Mundell, Managing Director and Creative Director of Synchronicity Films, Richard Cowles, CEO of Lifted E...

Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian explore how President Trump is reshaping America's relationships with allies and adversaries. They discuss Trump's willingness to meet North Korea's Kim Jong Un again, rising tensions with ally Oman, and what it could mean for the United States’ role on the world stage.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior p...

The death of Cambridge academic Jason Arday has prompted intense debate about media conduct, following weeks of reporting on allegations of plagiarism and questions about aspects of his life story. Critics have accused journalists of contributing to an atmosphere of relentless scrutiny, while others argue that legitimate public interest questions were being pursued. Nick Clark, a childhood friend of Jason Arday, reflects on his experience of speaking to reporters. Charles Moore, columnist at The Telegraph and The Spectator, Seun Matiluko, freelance journalist, Sarah Ditum, Times Columnist and Stephen Bush, columnist at the Financial Times, consider questions of proportionality, public...

Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian discuss how AI data centres are becoming an important issue for voters ahead of the midterms. They look at concerns about the energy use and environmental impact of these facilities, and why the Trump administration sees them as key to competing with China.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

For years, YouTube was largely seen as the home of creators who built their audiences online. But increasingly it's becoming a destination for established TV presenters too. James May, best known for Top Gear and The Grand Tour, joins Katie Razzall alongside producer Lucy Brown to discuss building their YouTube channel, Planet Gin. Holly Graham, Chief Commercial Officer at Little Dot Studios, explains what it takes to build a successful YouTube brand and whether television success translates online.

Last month, The Times' Chief Sports Reporter Martyn Ziegler revealed that FIFA president Gianni Infantino had been exploring plans...

Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Trump's efforts to balance AI innovation and regulation, the divisions within his cabinet over AI policy, and the challenges posed by China's rapid AI development. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected] Senior producer: James Kraft Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Gareth Bebb

More film studios are making films for audiences they believe are not well served by mainstream Hollywood. Many are aimed at Christian viewers or people with more traditional values, and some have become major box office successes. The trend reflects changes in how films are funded, promoted, and distributed to different audiences. Max Tani, Media Editor at Semafor, Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten, CEO of Wonder Project, and Brandon Purdie, Head of Theatrical and Brand Development at Angel Studios, outline different perspectives from across the industry. Prison radio is developing in different ways around the world, with stations giving prisoners the...

Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Zelensky's visit to Washington, where he pushed for greater US support to bolster Ukraine's air defences. They examine whether relations between Trump and Zelensky are warming, and what this renewed diplomatic effort, along with a new package of sanctions on Russia, could mean for the war in Ukraine.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bb...

The Economist's interview with Elon Musk attracted global attention before Musk then described interviewer Zanny Minton Beddoes as a "traitor to the West". The interview followed 90 minutes of conversation for The Insider, The Economist's video series. Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, explains how the interview came about and the reaction after it was published.

Huge wildfires in France and Spain have dominated news coverage across Europe, creating difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions for journalists reporting from the scene. Sadiya Chowdhury, Correspondent at Sky News, explains her approach and Mehdi Lebouachera, Global Director at AFP, gives...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss what we know about the US-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal, the implications for the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, and the fact that Israel could now make or break the agreement.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

An AI-generated actor called Tilly Norwood has been cast in the lead role of a forthcoming film, adding to the debate about artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The announcement follows criticism from actors including Emily Blunt and objections from the US performers' union. Eline Van der Velden, founder and CEO of Particle6, explains why she created Tilly Norwood, while Jake Kanter, International Investigations Editor at Deadline, sets out the reaction from the film industry. Andy Burnham has become the UK's new Prime Minister, and his approach to the media is already attracting attention. His team has relied more on social...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann give their immediate reaction straight after Trump's primetime address, discussing the president's claims of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, the political response, and what the speech could mean for the upcoming midterm elections.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at [email protected]

The Trump administration has issued subpoenas to several New York Times journalists following reporting about alleged security concerns involving President Trump's new Air Force One, a plane donated by Qatar. The case has prompted debate over the balance between protecting national security and safeguarding press freedom. Claire Atkinson, founder of The Media Mix newsletter, outlines the latest developments.

The BBC's latest annual report comes as the corporation warns that public service media is facing a period of jeopardy. The figures show a further fall in licence fee-paying households, alongside changing audience habits and continued financial pressures as...

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann examine the renewed fighting between the US and Iran, and the potential political implications for Americans and President Trump’s political future.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior producer: James Kraft  Editor: James Kraft  Executive producer: Anna Holford