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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