Join Australia's best-informed commentator on US politics, Bruce Wolpe, for essential insight into Trump’s 2nd term, the US looming mid-term elections and the impact of his presidency on Australia and the world. In conversation with David Heilpern.
Leading expert and US and Australian politics insider Bruce Wolpe reveals the many ways in which Australia has already been damaged by Donald Trump. Seeping into Australia from above and below, Trumpism has contaminated public debate, emboldened local political and religious extremists, diminished Australia's economy and international relations—and much more.
Wolpe predicts America's democracy won't survive a second Trump term. The implications for Australia and for the world are shocking. He explains how Australia can draw on its strengths to protect its democracy, economy and society from Trumpism, and where Australia is vulnerable and needs to build guardrails. He warns Australia might also face an existential question about ties with its most important ally.
Event Details:
When: Wednesday 28 October at 6:00pm
Where: Brunswick Picture House, 30 Fingal St Brunswick Heads
Tickets: $40 General Admission | $35 Festival Friends
$57 General Admission Ticket and Book Bundle
$52 Festival Friends Ticket and Book Bundle
About Bruce Wolpe
Bruce Wolpe is a Senior Fellow (non-resident) at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. He worked with the Democrats in the US Congress during President Barack Obama's first term, he was a senior advisor for Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and he was a senior executive at Fairfax Media 1998 – 2009. He is author of The Committee, and Lobbying Congress.
About David Heilpern
Professor David Heilpern is the Dean of Law at Southern Cross University, and a regular columnist in the local and national press. He has authored five books, was a Magistrate for 22 years, and is a popular media commentator on legal issues including environmental, criminal and sovereign citizen law. David is a Board Member of the Byron Writers Festival.
'True, timely and terrifying' Sean Kelly, author of The Game
'As Wolpe masterfully shows us, the lesson of Trump is that our democracy is not a "set and forget" proposition, but rather demands constant vigilance.' - Sydney Morning Herald
Cost
General:
$
40
Friends (Members):
$
35
Free
TBC
When
October 28, 2026 6:00 PM
TBC
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Byron Writers Festival is Australia's largest regional literature festival and the beating heart of the Northern Rivers' intellectual and cultural life.
Byron Writers Festival is a registered charity with DGR status. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
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