Full Episode: Sunday, January 18, 2026 - abc-world-news-this-week Recap
Podcast: abc-world-news-this-week
Published: 2026-01-18
Duration: 50 minutes
Guests: Jacob Fry, Michael McCaul, Chris Van Hollen, Mikey Sherrill
Summary
This episode grapples with the implications of President Trump's geopolitical maneuvers, especially regarding Greenland and Venezuela, and their domestic repercussions. Discussions also emphasize the impact of federal actions on local governance and national security.
What Happened
President Trump's foreign policy decisions are under intense scrutiny, particularly his threats of military force to acquire Greenland, which he justifies on national security grounds. However, this move has faced widespread disapproval, with 86% of Americans opposing such an action, and only 55% supporting the idea of buying Greenland. The potential economic impact of tariffs on European allies who have opposed this move adds another layer of controversy.
In Minneapolis, Mayor Jacob Frey is contending with a significant federal law enforcement presence, with federal officers reportedly outnumbering local police five to one. This has been exacerbated by aggressive actions from ICE agents, leading to increased tensions and unrest in the city. Frey is also dealing with a Justice Department investigation, which some see as politically motivated.
On the national stage, New Jersey Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill is vocal about her concerns over federal interference in state affairs. She criticizes President Trump's tariff policies and highlights a political realignment in New Jersey, where working-class voters have shifted away from Trump due to rising costs under his administration.
Senator Chris Van Hollen discusses broader national security issues, expressing skepticism about Trump's interest in Greenland. He suggests that the real motive is resource acquisition rather than security, and he refuses to support funding for ICE operations without substantial reforms.
Congressman Michael McCaul raises alarms about the potential undermining of NATO due to Trump's foreign policy, particularly the proposed invasion of Greenland. He also points to a dramatic increase in assaults on ICE officers, linking it to tensions in sanctuary cities.
The episode touches on President Trump's bold actions, such as the order to capture Venezuela's president, which has declared U.S. control over the country. These actions are portrayed as part of a broader strategy to divert attention from domestic issues.
There is a mention of economic interests in Greenland's rare earth minerals, with billionaires like Bezos and Gates reportedly showing interest. This adds a layer of complexity to the geopolitical discourse surrounding Trump's proposals.
Amid these discussions, the episode also briefly mentions domestic initiatives, such as the promotion of Cologuard for non-invasive colon cancer screening and Shopify as a tool for business growth.
Key Insights
- President Trump's proposal to use military force to acquire Greenland faces significant opposition, with 86% of Americans disapproving of the action, while only 55% support the idea of purchasing the territory.
- In Minneapolis, federal law enforcement presence has become overwhelming, with federal officers outnumbering local police five to one, contributing to heightened tensions and unrest in the city.
- New Jersey has seen a political shift as working-class voters move away from Trump, largely due to rising costs attributed to his administration's tariff policies.
- Interest in Greenland's rare earth minerals has grown, with billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates reportedly showing interest, adding complexity to the geopolitical debate over Trump's proposals.