On this bonus mini-episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis reflects on the Democrats’ historic midterms success, what now for the Trump administration, and what it might mean for the Australia-US relationship.

This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November.

Join Emma and Don Watson at our first-ever After America live show on Tuesday 1 December at the Celtic Club in Melbourne.

Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // @emmashortis

Host: Angus Blackman, Executive Producer – Podcasts, the Australia Institute // @AngusRB

Show notes:

Shorter America: Looks like woke’s back on the menu; Choosin’ Texas; Global implications by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)

After America: Australia and the new world order by Emma Shortis, Australia Institute Press (May 2025)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

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