The golden age

Trump promised a golden age for the US economy – and now a golden dome to protect the continent.
On this episode of After America, Matt Duss joins Emma Shortis to sort the signal from the noise in the Trump administration’s foreign policy. They discuss Trump’s approach to the Middle East, its negotiations with Iran, and the continued influence of China hawks in his Cabinet.
This discussion was recorded on Wednesday 28 May 2025 and things may have changed since recording.
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Guest: Matt Duss, Executive Vice President, Center for International Policy // @mattduss
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // @emmashortis
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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