Democrats sweep to victory after shutdown becomes longest ever

featuring Emma Shortis and Angus Blackman
President Donald Trump hosts a bilateral lunch meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the Cabinet Room, Friday, November 7, 2025. (Official White House Photo by Daniel Torok)
The White House/Flickr

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In New York City, California, New Jersey and Virginia, American voters sent Trump and Republicans a clear message.

On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis joins Angus Blackman to discuss the results of last week’s sweeping election victories. They discuss what it all means for the Democratic Party, how the MAGA-verse is responding, and the impact of the longest federal government shutdown in American history.

This discussion was recorded on Monday 10 November.

Follow Emma’s work at The Point, where she publishes a column on the week in American politics every Monday.

Join Emma and Don Watson in conversation in Carlton on Saturday 15 November.

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

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

Show notes:

Democrats’ 2025 election wins go beyond big races to places like Georgia, Pennsylvania by Stephen Fowler, NPR (November 2025)

Dems Won. Cue the Far-Right Crash-Out by Kiera Butler, Mother Jones (November 2025)

Photo: The White House/Flickr (U.S. Government work)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au.

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