Why did Dems ignore Platner's red flags for so long?

Why did Dems ignore Platner's red flags for so long?

Author: Global July 10, 2026 Duration: 32:52

There were so many signs that Graham Platner was a flawed candidate. A history of offensive social media posts, A tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. A sexting scandal. And last month, a series of ex-partners accusing Platner of erratic and angry behaviour. But it wasn't until this week, when a woman told CNN that she had been sexually assaulted by Platner, that his position became untenable as the Democrat vying for a Senate seat in Maine. He denies the allegations - and has hit out at a "political establishment" trying to bring him down. But is the truth that the Dems should have cut him loose much sooner? In the search for authenticity, did the party embrace someone it should have been much more wary of? And, like with Biden, have they jeopardised their chances in Maine by leaving the search for a replacement until the last minute?

Later, is Mitch McConnell alive? That's the question one GOP Congressman was unable to answer earlier this week. The 84-year-old has been in hospital for weeks and there has been a series of recent incidents prompting fresh concerns about his health. Some MAGA figures are demanding proof of life. Why does America's political system keep churning out octogenarians?

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
Clinton, Epstein and Trump's dire polling [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:58
Trump is trying his best to manifest good polling numbers. But the raw numbers as they stand are dire for the President. This week, we talk to top pollster Doug Sosnik, who was at Bill Clinton’s side for six years, about…
Is Trump trying to distract us from the Epstein files? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:11
The deadline to release the Epstein files is now over a month old. Last night, a congressional committee confirmed Ghislaine Maxwell would appear before it in a hearing on February 9th. Although she may choose to say lit…
Will Trump bring martial law to Minnesota? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:21
It's a week since Renee Nicole Good was shot by an ICE agent whilst in her car in Minnesota. Since then, protests have erupted around the country, schools in Minneapolis have closed, and last night saw a second shooting…
Why 2026 could be Trump's most volatile year yet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:27
The plan to taken down Venezuelan leader, Nicolas Maduro, was months in the making. And yet, when it did finally happen, it not only took Caracas by surprise but even Washington was stunned by the speed of the incursion.…
Has Vanity Fair made MAGA look ugly again? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:38
Trump's inner circle may be wondering this week why they gave Vanity Fair exclusive access and close up photos for the magazine. The portrait is unflattering to say the least. And highly revelatory. Will it change how Tr…
Why are Americans abandoning Trump on the economy? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:26
Affordability is the word that Zohran Mamdani made the centre of his New York mayoral campaign after watching the Democrats lose so badly in 2024. But now it’s the Republicans and President Trump that have to convince vo…
Is this the biggest political sex scandal since Lewinsky? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:44
The story of the affair between journalist Olivia Nuzzi and Health Secretary RFK Junior has been called the least important and most important story of our times. What does it tell us about MAGA culture, journalistic eth…
Has Trump's lawfare blown up in his face? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:54
The former FBI director James Comey has walked free after his indictment was thrown out by a judge who decided the presiding attorney was actually invalid. It’s a tricky moment for Donald Trump, who had pursued his enemi…