Americanswers... on 5 Live! Will Trump's new challenge to birthright citizenship work?

Americanswers... on 5 Live! Will Trump's new challenge to birthright citizenship work?

Author: BBC News August 10, 2026 Duration: 40:47

Donald Trump isn’t giving up on his plans to limit birthright citizenship in the US, despite the Supreme Court striking down his previous attempt. He says his administration is making ‘adjustments’, and has issues two new executive orders to combat so-called ‘birth tourism’ and limit the criteria for becoming an American citizen. But what exactly is his new strategy? And a federal appeals court has ordered Trump to stop construction on his $400m White House ballroom, saying he can’t proceed without approval from Congress. Is this the end of the project?

The team also unpack the BBC’s interview with Hunter Biden and his comments about his father, former President Joe Biden. Does he think he made a mistake in pardoning him? And what’s the current state of his health? Sarah, Justin and Marianna join Matt Chorley on 5 Live to answer your questions.

HOSTS: • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Correspondent

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This episode was made by Jack Maclaren, Alix Pickles and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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Trying to make sense of American politics can feel like navigating a maze. Americast, from BBC News, cuts through the noise with a perspective that’s both grounded and far-reaching. You’ll hear from seasoned correspondents like the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, and presenter Justin Webb, who bring decades of experience to the conversation. This isn’t just a recap of headlines; it’s about understanding the forces shaping the United States, from the granular details observed on the ground to the wider historical and social currents at play. The team delves into everything from election campaigns and policy debates to the complex role of disinformation and social media, offering clarity on the stories that define the nation week to week. Relying on the BBC’s global network of journalists, this podcast provides analysis that connects local events to their international significance. For anyone looking to move beyond the soundbites and gain a more nuanced view of American government and society, tuning into this weekly discussion offers a valuable and authoritative resource.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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