Is Trump now bankrolling a MAGA paramilitary?

Is Trump now bankrolling a MAGA paramilitary?

Author: Global May 21, 2026 Duration: 31:31

Donald Trump announced a $1.776bn new scheme this week labelled an 'anti-weaponisation fund' to compensate citizens who've been mistreated by the US justice system. Who could the President have in mind as in need of compensation? How about the January 6th rioters? Well they are stepping forward in their droves to state their intentions to claim millions from the IRS - and Trump seems to be cheering them on. Critics say he's using the money to keep his own private militia on retainer - are they right?

And why did Trump secure 'forever' immunity for him and his family from tax audits?

Later, in a rare act of rebellion, Republican Congressmen stripped out $1bn worth of funding for Trump's ballroom from a Bill going through the legislature that was supposed to be about immigration enforcement funding. Trump has doubled down on the ambitions for the ballroom - talking about a drone port on the roof and a military base. But will the GOP get increasingly jittery about the exorbitant costs and the gaudy nature of his White House redevelopment when there's an affordability crisis weighing on the minds of voters?

The News Agents - USA is a Global Production.

The News Agents USA is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/


Every week, Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel bring their decades of frontline reporting experience to a conversation that cuts through the noise of American politics. The News Agents-USA isn't just another rundown of headlines; it's a deep, engaging dissection of the forces shaping the United States, from the corridors of power in Washington to the issues resonating across the country. What you'll hear is a blend of astute political analysis and a wry sense of humour, offering world-class insight that makes complex topics accessible and compelling. This Global production stands out in the crowded field of news commentary by focusing on the 'why' behind the stories, delivered through the unique rapport between two seasoned journalists. New episodes of this essential podcast arrive every Tuesday or Wednesday, providing a timely and thoughtful perspective on the ever-evolving American landscape. It’s designed for anyone who wants to move beyond the soundbites and understand the real narratives driving the world's most consequential democracy.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The News Agents - USA
Podcast Episodes
The Trumpapalooza tumbleweed: Why Republicans are staying away [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:31
In a characteristic break with US political tradition, President Trump is holding a two-day event in Dallas, Texas ahead of the upcoming midterms. The problem? No one seems to want to go. Dallas is a deeply red state. It…
Are Democrats sabotaging their own socialists? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:46
It's quite a claim, but Bernie Sanders has suggested that some Democrats would rather lose the Senate than support Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan and Angie Nixon in Florida.These firebrand progressive candidates, Sanders cla…
Is Trump about to wage a trade war with China? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:55
As the USA and Canada head towards a prolonged economic confrontation, we look at Trump’s escalating tariffs on Canada, Mark Carney’s decision to hit back, and what a trade war between two of the world’s most integrated…
Why are Navy sailors trying to jump off the USS Abraham Lincoln? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:58
The crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln have been at sea for over nine months without docking for a port call. Sailors are reporting grimy conditions, rotting food, and deteriorating mental health. Some have even allegedly t…
Is AOC entering her presidential era? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:41
It was a mixed night for progressive Democrats in primaries yesterday. They chalked up some wins, but the Wisconsin gubernatorial hopeful Francesca Hong was probably the highest profile left wing candidate up in a contes…
Have Democrats found their new Obama in Michigan? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:55
The Michigan Senate race primary between two Democrat candidates was so tight that by midday it still hadn’t been officially called. But it looks like the progressive, Muslim candidate of the Left has edged it over his A…
Could Laura Loomer save Ukraine? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:18
There are good signs that Ukraine seems to now be winning the war against Russia - and for Volodymyr Zelenskyy, there are even better signs that Ukraine is winning the battle the battle for hearts and minds with MAGA. No…
Trump's Tehran nightmare: Are Republicans done with his Iran war? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:41
Pete Hegseth took an absolute pummelling in the Senate as he tried to make the continued case for Trump's war in Iran. It wasn't just the Democrats getting exasperated - Louisiana Senator John Kennedy said the situation…
ICE kills again [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:00
ICE agents have been instructed to immediately suspend vehicle stops during enforcement operations nationwide. It follows two fatal shootings in Texas and Maine over the last week. Are things getting out of control again…