Lean to the Left is a progressive media platform offering political commentary, fact-based news analysis, and expert interviews that expose threats to democracy and hold leaders accountable. Lean to the Left is an independent, evolving media platform. Member benefits will grow and adapt over time. Founded in 2017 as Not Fake News and rebranded in 2021, Lean to the Left brings together the work of journalist and author Bob Gatty and a talented team of contributing writers who deliver sharp, insightful content on the issues affecting Americans today. 

Our podcast—launched as NFN Radio News before becoming The Lean to the Left Podcast—featured weekly interviews with authors, activists, experts, and political insiders, with hard-hitting commentary on the challenges facing our nation. What began as a podcast grew into a community of listeners and readers who care deeply about democracy, accountability, and civic engagement. At its close, the Lean to the Left podcast had reached nearly 850 episodes with a worldwide audience.

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October 19, 2024

American Democracy at Risk

Show Notes

American Democracy at Risk Join us for an engaging discussion with best-selling author Jeffrey Archer as he returns to the Lean to the Left podcast. Archer dives into his latest novel, ‘An Eye for an Eye,’ which features a gripping plot about a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence. He also shares his admiration for Thomas Jefferson and how U.S. politics have influenced his storytelling.

Reflecting on his 60-year friendship with former Senator Bill Bradley, Archer discusses the current American political climate and Donald Trump’s impact, saying that American democracy is at risk if Trump wins the election.

“We in England find it very hard to understand how he (Trump) ever became the candidate. It’s beyond us,” Archer says. “If you love America as much as I do, you can grow to understand it because you realize that he appeals to a certain section of the American public”

However, Archer predicts that Trump will defeat Kamala Harris, but worries that if she wins in a close race, violence could ensue.

“What I dread most is a result, say 268 to 272 win by Kamala Harris, because if that happened, heaven knows what will happen next,” he says.

During the conversation, he offers insights into his creative process, his experiences in the House of Lords, international affairs, and his two years spent in prison.

Don’t miss this episode filled with Archer’s personal insights, reflections, and his vast contributions to literature and politics.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won’t want to miss.

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Jeffrey Archer

00:32 The Latest Novel: An Eye for an Eye

01:24 Jeffrey Archer’s Writing Process

02:38 Discussion on Thomas Jefferson

05:04 Friendship with Bill Bradley

07:56 Current U.S. Political Climate

12:24 Jeffrey Archer’s Literary Works

13:21 Jeffrey Archer’s Role and Family

13:47 The Origin of Prison Diaries

14:18 Life in Prison and Story Inspirations

15:04 Art Collection Passion 16:16 Political Career and House of Lords

16:51 Views on American Politics

18:55 Reflections on Life and Global Issues

20:30 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Bob’s new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump’s Attack on America’s Greatness, is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and is due out Oct 25 on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Here’s a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

Prefer to listen instead of watching our Podcast? Go to https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

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