U.S. midterms put everyday frustrations alongside a president’s ambitions for his place in history. Don Abelson, professor of political science at McMaster University, helps you assess why attention abroad can become a political liability at home.

What happens when voters feel their own priorities have slipped out of view? Don draws a comparison with an earlier Republican president whose foreign-policy focus became a problem with Americans. The parallel offers another way to think about what voters may be judging.

And if your concern is Canada’s relationship with its neighbour, the stakes extend beyond one election. What would a future president have to repair? Don’s assessment of trust and reputation brings the conversation back to the allies watching from outside.

Topics: U.S. midterms, presidential legacy, domestic priorities, foreign policy, allied relations

GUEST: Don Abelson

Originally aired on 2026-11-03

U.S. midterms put everyday frustrations alongside a president&rsquo;s ambitions for his place in history. Don Abelson, professor of political science at McMaster University, helps you assess why attention abroad can become a political liability at home.
What happens when voters feel their own priorities have slipped out of view? Don draws a comparison with an earlier Republican president whose foreign-policy focus became a problem with Americans. The parallel offers another way to think about what voters may be judging.
And if your concern is Canada&rsquo;s relationship with its neighbour, the stakes extend beyond one election. What would a future president have to repair? Don&rsquo;s assessment of trust and reputation brings the conversation back to the allies watching from outside.
Topics: U.S. midterms, presidential legacy, domestic priorities, foreign policy, allied relations
GUEST: Don Abelson
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-11-03

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.