Pat Kenny is launching a new weekly podcast on life and politics in the United States. 

Launching today on 16th October, The Divided States of America with Pat Kenny will see the Newstalk broadcaster joined by academics, journalists and political figures to unpack the biggest American news stories and explore what they mean to listeners here. 

His first guest will be Dr Richard Haass, a former US diplomat who advised President George H.W. Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell and served as Special Envoy to Northern Ireland.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Pat said he has “always loved America” and completed his graduate studies in an era when it was still very much the promised land. 

“I saw the American Dream in action,” he recalled. 

“Every generation better off, better housed, better educated than the one before. 

“So, what went wrong? Why has the American Dream become the American Nightmare; not just for its own people, but for many of America’s former allies and friends? 

“Or were we all looking at the United States through a distorting prism? Is the Presidency of Donald Trump an anomaly, or has he simply, perhaps inadvertently, lifted the veil on a country whose engine has always been money and self-interest? 

“Over the coming months, into the midterms and beyond, we’ll be explaining what’s gone wrong with America and asking can it be fixed? Can it regain global respect as the era of Donald Trump comes to an end?”

Micheál Martin watches as President Donald Trump gestures during an event in the East Room of the White House in Washington. Picture by: Alamy.com/AP Photo/Alex Brandon.

Newstalk Managing Editor Eric Moylan said the station is “incredibly excited” to host the new podcast. 

“At a time when US politics is fragmented, divisive and loud, Pat’s skills will be unparalleled in dispelling the noise and getting to the heart of the matter,” he said. 

“He’ll have the freedom of the platform to bring guests to heel and, as we approach a crucial midterm election, Pat will bring his unique perspective to proceedings. 

“It will be essential listening.”

The first episode of The Divided States of America with Pat Kenny is available now, Friday 16th October on the GoLoud app, GoLoud website, Newstalk website and all major podcast platforms. 

New episodes are released every Friday.