The Explanation

The US Supreme Court begins its new term with a docket full of potentially significant cases that could define the scope of Donald Trump's presidential authority - and the prospect of more to come. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse how the Supreme Court can reshape Trump's powers. 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 is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether two years on from the 7 October attacks peace in Gaza is now possible, looks at what it’s like for western journalists to report from Russia, and examines the consequences of UN sanctions being reimposed on Iran.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

Steve Rosenberg, BBC News Russia editor, is one of the few Western reporters still based in Moscow. He talks about working under tight controls, renewing short visas and facing limits on access while trying to report facts from inside the country. His years of steady reporting have now earned him the Charles Wheeler Award for Broadcast Journalism. Also on the show, Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, explains how the magazine is turning to video with its new series The Economist Insider. The project shows editors debating major issues and gives viewers a sense of how the publication works behind the scenes. And Victoria Beckham has a new series on Netflix. Public-relations specialist Farzana Baduel, founder of Curzon PR, assesses the strategy behind “authorised access” documentaries and how they can help celebrities manage their image.Presenters: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Elena Angelides Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: James Cherry Sound: Robin Schroder

President Trump is expanding his powers over the federal workforce and flexing his muscles in front of generals. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse the consequences of the government shutdown, and what the new guidelines for the US Army could mean for America's military power. 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@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle and one of the world’s richest men, is becoming a major force in media. His son David runs Skydance, which recently took over Paramount and is now interested in Warner Bros Discovery. Ellison is also linked to a bid for TikTok in the US. These moves raise questions about whether his wealth and political ties influence media ownership. James Warrington, Media and Telecoms Editor at The Telegraph, explains Ellison’s growing role in global media and the concerns around it.Ellison’s donations to Tony Blair’s Institute for Global Change and Oracle’s possible role in the UK’s digital ID plans have also drawn attention. Some online groups have connected these facts to conspiracy theories about governments wanting more control over people’s lives. Dr Matthew Sweet, broadcaster and cultural historian, explains how ideas like this can spread from small corners of the internet into mainstream news.US President Donald Trump recently posted and deleted an AI-generated video promoting “med beds,” a conspiracy theory claiming that secret technology can cure any illness. The idea started in QAnon groups during the pandemic and has spread across Facebook, YouTube and Telegram. Dr Robert Topinka, Senior Lecturer at Birkbeck University, describes how such claims grow online and why they sometimes reach powerful politicians.The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, a tradition in British sport since the 1800s, will no longer be shown on the BBC. Channel 4 has signed a five-year deal to broadcast the race starting in 2026. Siobhan Cassidy, Chair of the Boat Race Company, outlines why the deal was made, while Pete Andrews, Head of Sport at Channel 4, explains how the broadcaster hopes to develop the event.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Callum McLean

From late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel's suspension to an unprecedented Pentagon memo - where is the line between criticism and censorship?On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyze how the Trump administration is taking on its critics and tries to control the narratives in the media. 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@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what effect the recognition of Palestine as a state might have, examines whether Syria is back in the international fold, and looks at the latest restrictions that the Taliban have introduced in Afghanistan.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

In the US, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was taken off air after making remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The broadcasting regulator, the FCC, warned stations about continuing to air his show. Donald Trump supported the suspension, but Disney, which owns ABC, later decided to bring the show back. Brian Stelter, Chief Media Analyst at CNN, looks at what this means for the relationship between politicians, broadcasters and entertainers. A BBC investigation has revealed new details about how the government is using hotels to house migrants. The Home Secretary has ordered an urgent review after concerns were raised about taxis being used to move asylum seekers and the conditions inside the hotels, which are currently home to around 32,000 people. BBC journalist Sue Mitchell shares what she found while reporting inside the hotels and the difficulties of recording people’s experiences. A new ITV drama called The Hack tells the story of phone hacking by the News of the World, Rupert Murdoch’s tabloid newspaper, which subsequently shut down because of the scandal. Executive producer Patrick Spence explains the choices made when dramatising real events and his motivation.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Chris Ablakwa

President Trump’s visit to the UK tests Sir Keir Starmer’s handling of the “special relationship” - but the bigger test comes next, at the UN General Assembly.On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr unpack Trump’s foreign relations and relationships, and how the world adapts to his style.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@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the relationship between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump, analyses whether Israel’s strike on Qatar has played into Iran’s hands, and looks at the widening split between Europe and the United States over Israel and Gaza. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

The killing of US conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has raised questions about how the media should report on controversial figures while still showing respect to victims and their families. Meanwhile in London, more than one hundred thousand people joined the Unite the Kingdom rally, where Elon Musk spoke by video link. The event has sparked fresh debate about whether using terms like “far right” helps explain what happened or risks pushing audiences away. LBC’s James O’Brien, Talk TV’s Isabel Oakeshott and political commentator Guto Harri give their views on the challenges facing journalism when reporting on divisive stories.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Luke Sweeney Sound: Nathan Chamberlain

The killing of Charlie Kirk triggers shockwaves through the US, sparking grief, anger, and debate over politics, political violence and America’s future.On this live episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr discuss the killing of Charlie Kirk, reaction from across the political divide, and what it signals about the depth of polarization in the US.Every Friday, 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@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the latest political crisis in France is a sign of long-term decline, examines the reasons for the simmering tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, and looks at the ways in which Russia is trying to win over opinion around the world.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

Super Mario Bros reaches its 40th anniversary. First released in 1985, the Nintendo title redefined video game design and propelled Mario from a supporting character into a global icon. Keza MacDonald, video games editor at The Guardian and author of a forthcoming book on Nintendo, outlines its creation and cultural significance. In Russia, a state-approved messaging service called Max has been made mandatory on all new devices, while WhatsApp and Telegram face restrictions. Eva Hartog, Russia reporter at Politico Europe, considers the impact on digital freedoms and journalism. In Nepal, a ban on 26 major social media platforms led to widespread protests and the resignation of the Prime Minister before the restrictions were reversed. Dr Nayana Prakash, Research Fellow at Chatham House, assesses what this reveals about state approaches to online platforms. A resolution has been reached in the Murdoch family’s long-running succession dispute. Claire Atkinson, media reporter and founder of the The Media Mix newsletter, explains the background to the family trust and what the decision could mean for the company’s future direction.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

Trump enters a new political season as Congress returns from its summer recess. Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry, and Courtney Subramanian look at challenges to his agenda. Every Friday, 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@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

France’s Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has called a parliamentary confidence vote after his proposals to abolish two public holidays triggered widespread opposition. The unrest has coincided with the emergence of a grassroots movement, ‘Bloquons Tout’, which began on messaging apps and is now pushing its message through social media. BBC News Paris Correspondent Hugh Schofield assesses how French media outlets are reporting the crisis, while Paola Sedda, associate professor of Information and Communication Sciences at the University of Lille, examines the protesters’ tactics and their uneasy relationship with journalists.American Vogue has appointed Chloe Malle as its new head of editorial content, with Anna Wintour remaining in a senior role at Condé Nast. Michael Grynbaum, media correspondent at The New York Times, explains what the change signals for the future of glossy magazines.And a new book revisits the career of George Ward Price, the Daily Mail correspondent who became known for his extraordinary access to Adolf Hitler in the 1930s. Historian Richard Evans, author of Interviewing Hitler, tells his story.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Rosie Strawbridge Technical Coordinator: Craig Johnson Sound: Mike Campbell

Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard in Washington DC draws equal parts praise and concern. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Courtney Subramanian examine crime data, community reactions, and the politics behind the move. Every Friday, 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@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

A number of publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have withdrawn articles initially attributed to a freelance journalist named Margaux Blanchard. Press Gazette first reported the concerns after an editor flagged a suspicious pitch. The true identity of the writer and whether AI authored the pieces remain unclear. Jacob Furedi, editor of Dispatch, and Dr Glenda Cooper, Head of Journalism at City St George’s, University of London, discuss.The new football season arrives alongside changes in coverage. Two YouTube channels - The Overlap and That’s Football - have secured live UK rights to show some Bundesliga matches. Minal Modha, Head of Sport Media Rights at Ampere Analysis, explains the strategy. Graham Scott, columnist at Telegraph Sport, on pivoting to journalism from his previous role as a Premier League referee. Parenthood is the latest BBC wildlife series narrated by David Attenborough. It was filmed across 23 countries and six continents, following how animals raise their young. Jeff Wilson, series producer and director at Silverback Films, reveals how it was made.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant producer: Martha Owen Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Sound: Holly Palmer Technical co-ordinator: James Cherry

Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for ending several international conflicts and continues to present himself as a global peacemaker. Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr examine the president's efforts to broker deals in Ukraine and Gaza, his broader foreign policy approach, and how these initiatives align with his stated ambition to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. Every Friday, 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 is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington for talks with Donald Trump and other European leaders. The timing coincided with Anushka Asthana’s first day as US editor for Channel 4 News, who describes her early impressions of covering the American political landscape. Meanwhile, independent Russian broadcaster TV Rain, operating in exile from Amsterdam, also reported intensively on the Washington meetings. Ekaterina Kotrikadze, news director and anchor, TV Rain, explains how the organisation continues to reach audiences under pressure of censorship and surveillance. The Edinburgh TV Festival has been taking place this week, and brings together industry voices to assess the future of television in the UK and beyond. Camilla Lewis, creative director, Curve Media, and Matt Belloni, co-founder, Puck, provide their perspectives on where money, audiences and creative opportunities are moving. Hedge fund Hunterbrook is experimenting with an unusual model for the news business: publishing investigative journalism while also using its findings to guide investment decisions. Sam Koppelman, co-founder, Hunterbrook, outlines how the company separates editorial and financial operations while aiming to sustain investigative reporting. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen