Two Blocks from the White House cover art

Two Blocks from the White House

Two Blocks from the White House

By: CBC
Listen for free

About this listen

American politics, Canadian context. Every Wednesday, CBC Washington correspondents Paul Hunter, Katie Simpson and Willy Lowry sit down to talk through the big stories in the U.S. — and to answer the question: what does this mean for Canada? It's unscripted, smart analysis from reporters with a foot in both countries, and a press pass to the White House.

Copyright © CBC 2026
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Iran, oil and Trump’s political gamble
    Mar 11 2026

    As the U.S. war in the Middle East continues, gas prices are on the rise and American voters are paying attention. Affordability remains a key issue, and President Donald Trump’s decision to wage war on Iran is drawing criticism not only from Democrats, but from within his MAGA base.


    As the November midterms approach, will the war overseas lead to a referendum on the Trump administration at home?


    CBC’s Washington correspondents Paul Hunter, Willy Lowry and Katie Simpson unpack the economic cost of war on Iran — and ask whether Americans seem willing to pay.

    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Trump's 'no rules' war on Iran
    Mar 4 2026

    Reactions to the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran are mixed. Members of Congress are accusing President Donald Trump of starting an illegal war, questioning why he failed to seek congressional approval ahead of the strikes. Meanwhile, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has said the military intervention will follow 'no stupid rules of engagement.' The operation has put U.S. allies in a tricky position. Many — including Canada — have said there is some validity in targeting Iranian nuclear sites. But how far does that support go?


    With all eyes on the Middle East, CBC’s Washington correspondents Willy Lowry, Paul Hunter and Katie Simpson walk us through what has become yet another way Trump is testing his executive powers.

    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Is America really winning?
    Feb 25 2026

    Clocking in at 108 minutes, U.S. President Donald Trump's state of the union address was the longest in U.S. history, with the only mention of Canada coming during a tribute to the U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team. It’s all part of the 'U.S. is winning' message Trump is trying to push ahead of November's midterm elections. But is it working?


    The CBC's Washington correspondents Katie Simpson, Paul Hunter and Willy Lowry unpack what it all means for the year ahead in U.S. politics and Canada-U.S. relations.

    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.