The truth behind Joe Biden’s decline: the inside story

Jake Tapper of CNN is one of America’s most famous newsmen, someone who knows Washington inside and out. He - quite literally - had a ringside seat at the most consequential presidential debate in American history, as the presenter in charge as President Joe Biden melted down before the eyes of the world; his frailties and diminishment on display for all to see.

Along with Alex Thompson of Axios, he has written a new book 'Original Sin' which, through conversations with over 200 White House and Democratic Party officials, tells the story of the tragic decline of Joe Biden. A history so many lived through but could not bring themselves to see, up to and including the President and his inner circle themselves.

Jake joins Lewis to discuss the book, the remarkable 2024 campaign and whether the Democrats can find a future until, and unless, they reckon with their most recent past.

The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/

Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.

They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.

Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"

The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.

For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: [email protected]

And The News Agents now have merch! Click here to buy yours now: https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

• No. of episodes: 835
• Latest episode: 2025-06-24
• News Daily News Politics

Where can you listen?