The Pat Kenny Show The Pat Kenny Show

How is Trump's weekend visit being viewed at home?

Sep 13, 2026 · 10m

Summary

Katrina Perry, BBC’s chief presenter in Washington, discusses President Trump’s controversial golf trip to Ireland during the US midterm campaign. She analyzes his remarks on a unified Ireland, suggesting they may target Irish-American voters in swing districts. The conversation also covers the fractured Republican base, the impact of the Iran war on approval ratings, and the unique Texas Senate race. Finally, Perry addresses the enduring but aging influence of the Irish diaspora in Washington.

Topics discussed

Intro: Trump's weekend trip and midterm election context Welcome to Katrina Perry, BBC Chief Presenter in Washington Motives for the trip: Golf, friendship with Ambassador Walsh Political implications: EU Council presidency and secret meetings Analysis of Trump's 'unified island of Ireland' comments Targeting Irish-American voters in swing districts Reporting inside the Trump bubble and White House access Trump's attitude toward BBC and global media vs US networks The Dallas mini-convention and declining approval ratings Texas Senate race: The Tallarico effect and Ken Paxton The future of Irish influence in Washington and DC
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