Category
Latest News
- NATO Summit represents historic shift
- What's next for NATO?
- Merkel stands alone at the G8
- Containing China
- US Internship an invaluable experience
Archive
- May 2012
- April 2012
- March 2012
- February 2012
- January 2012
- December 2011
- November 2011
- October 2011
- September 2011
- August 2011
- July 2011
- June 2011
- May 2011
- April 2011
- March 2011
- February 2011
- January 2011
- December 2010
- November 2010
- October 2010
- September 2010
- August 2010
- July 2010
- June 2010
- May 2010
- April 2010
- March 2010
- February 2010
- January 2010
- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- February 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
- August 2008
- July 2008
- June 2008
- May 2008
- April 2008
- March 2008
- February 2008
- January 2008
- December 2007
- November 2007
- October 2007
- September 2007
- August 2007
- March 2007
- December 2006
Newsroom FeedNewsroom
With Gingrich gone, Romney turns to Obama
26 April 2012
ABC Radio Australia Breakfast
Newt Gingrich has announced his intention to pull out of the race for the Republican nomination, leaving the already strong Romney in an unassailable position ahead of the Convention in August. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor explains why has Gingrich finally pulled out and what that means for the general elections. Listen Online
What is left of the US right?
9 March 2012
The Canberra Times
It is entirely fair to say in historical terms this Republican primary has been contested by one of the weakest fields in recent memory. The group has included electoral losers, novelty candidates, the dim, and a flawed front-runner. Assosciate Professor Brendon OConnor asks do the current Republican primaries suggest American conservatism is still strong or rather does the election suggest that American conservatism is in a sorry state desperately fighting off its decline? Read Online
Newcomer could still steal Republican nomination
7 March 2012
SBS Radio
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor sees two possible scenarios for the Republican Party presidential nomination: Either Mitt Romney will get the required number of delegates to secure victory, or it will be decided at the convention itself. If Romney does not get enough delegates, the party could draft someone not currently in the race and select them on the convention floor. Listen online
Authenticity vs electability plays out on Super Tuesday
7 March 2012
3AW Drive
As 10 states went to the polls around the country on Super Tuesday, the 'authentic conservative' Rick Santorum battled the front-runner and establishment choice Mitt Romney for a share of the 437 delegates on offer. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor talked to Derryn Hinch about where the race is going from here and whether the Republican party can heal the wounds from what is increasingly becoming a long, ugly campaign. Listen Online
The winners and losers of Super Tuesday
7 March 2012
SBS TV World News Australia
With 10 states voting and over 400 delegates up for grabs, Associate Professor Brendon OConnor tells us who the winners and losers were from the Republican Super Tuesday primaries. Is it enough for Romney? Watch Online
Super Tuesday looms large for Romney
2 March 2012
ABC Planet America
Despite avoiding a potentially embarrassing loss in his home state of Michigan, the pressure is still on Mitt Romney to perform well on Super Tuesday. Associate Professor Brendon O’Connor talks to John Barron about the threat that Santorum still poses Romney and the states to watch this Tuesday. Watch Online
Romney faces a not-so-Super Tuesday
2 March 2012
The Australian
With the multi-state Super Tuesday event just around the corner, Dr David Smith and Associate Professor Brendon O’Connor from the US Studies Centre identify some of the key battleground states that could determine the future of the Republican primaries and the candidate to take on Obama in November. Can Rick Santorum challenge the front-runner status of Mitt Romney or will Romney win the decisive victory he needs to wrap-up the race once and for all? Watch Online
Romney will need more than Michigan to win the nomination
29 February 2012
ABC Radio National
Romney may have won his home state of Michigan but none of the candidates look like they can defeat Obama in November. Santorum may appeal to many social conservatives but, as Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor suggests, turns off many moderate Republicans while Romney is still struggling to excite the base of the GOP. Can either candidate mount a strong enough campaign to secure the nomination on Super Tuesday and present a strong challenge in November? Listen Online
More wins for Romney but victory remains elusive
29 February 2012
ABC News 24
Mitt Romney recovered from a surge by Santorum in the polls to clinch his home state, but the tight margin indicates that he hasn't yet sown up the nomination. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor from the United States Studies Centre suggests that Romney may be the right man for the job, but is lacking the X factor and appeal of other candidates. Can he close the deal before the Convention in August? Watch Online
Santorum: the 'right' candidate?
9 February 2012
Triple J Hack
After a string of wins in Missouri, Minnesota and Colorado, Rick Santorum is positioning himself as the representative of the conservative Right in the 2012 Republican Primaries. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor speaks to Hack's Claire Aird about Santorum's unlikely rise, his strong ideology and some of the controversy that surrounds his candidature. Listen Online
Romney picks up momentum in Florida
1 February 2012
Sky News
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor talks to Sky News about the results of the Republican primary in Florida. Will this result give Romney the momentum he needs to sew up the nomination or can the other candidates mount a comeback in Arizona? Watch Online
Romney defeats Gingrich in Florida
1 February 2012
ABC Radio National
Mitt Romney has resoundingly defeated his main rival and former House speaker Newt Gingrich in the Florida primary. However, Gingrich has vowed to battle on until the party formally nominates a candidate in August. Brendon O'Connor, associate professor at the US Studies Centre, discussed Romney's prospects as a candidate against Obama with Waleed Aly. Listen online
Romney takes lead in Republican race
1 February 2012
ABC NewsRadio
Brendon O'Connor says Mitt Romney is in a strong position following his win in the Florida primary but Newt Gingrich is still in with a chance in the Republican nomination race. Listen online
Fairness the focus of Obama's speech
25 January 2012
SBS World News
Brendon O'Connor says Obama spoke frequently about "fairness" during his State of the Union address. Obama has proposed to increase taxes for the wealthy, a direct appeal to Americans who are struggling financially. Watch online
Obama under fire over Guantanamo Bay
24 January 2012
SBS Radio
President Obama's failure to keep his promise to close the Guantanamo Bay facility has been criticised by many. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor told Greg Dyett that President Obama has used a number of strategies, including trying to convince Australia to accept some of the detainees. Listen online
Wash-up of South Carolina
22 January 2012
ABC News 24
Brendon O'Connor discusses the implications of the Newt Gingrich win in South Carolina for the Republican presidential nomination race. He tells Whitney Fitzsimmons that Newt Gingrich could be damaged by his "political skeletons" relating to his time as Speaker of the House during the 1990s, and that Rick Santorum is remaining in the race because of the unpredictability of how things will turn out for Gingrich. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Gingrich wins South Carolina
22 January 2012
SBS World News Australia
Brendon O'Connor tells Lee Lin Chin that conservative Republican candidate Newt Gingrich has caused a major upset by winning the South Carolina Primary, but that Mitt Romney remains the man most likely to win the party nomination to take on Barack Obama. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
'Slasher' Ron Paul in for the long haul
13 January 2012
The Weekend Australian
Featuring in this article about presidential candidate Ron Paul by Adam Creighton are the US Studies Centre's Brendon O'Connor and David Smith. O'Connor and Smith each remark on key aspects of Ron Paul's policy stance.
Read article
Armchair guide to the US primaries
12 January 2012
The Australian
The US Studies Centre's Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor and Dr David Smith feature in this video explaining the Republican primaries and the remaining field of candidates seeking their party's nomination.
Watch Online
Show moves to South Carolina
11 January 2012
Sky News
Brendon O'Connor provides a sweeping overview of the main candidates, issues and possibilities at the conclusion of the Republican Primary in New Hampshire. O'Connor says the upcoming vote in South Carolina will be the biggest moment yet of the Republican contest. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
US politics explained
5 January 2012
ABC Local Radio Brisbane
To help make sense of the media frenzy surrounding the Republican presidential nomination race, Brendon O'Connor explains to Stacey Milner the end-to-end process of a presidential candidate's journey to the highest office in the land. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Santorum surge 'incredible': expert
4 January 2012
SBS World News Australia
In the leading story of this news bulletin Brendon O'Connor says even a month ago the prospect of Rick Santorum winning in Iowa was not considered a possibility, and discusses what the result could mean for the Republican presidential nomination race. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
And they're off...
3 January 2012
ABC News 24
With the Iowa Caucus kicking off the race to the White House for 2012, Brendon O'Connor talks to ABC News 24 about each of the candidates still in the race and what the results in Iowa mean for the rest of the nation. Watch Online
Presidential candidates continue battle
13 December 2011
Sky News
Brendon O'Connor tells Ashleigh Gillon that there is still no clear frontrunner in the Republican presidential nomination race as the Iowa Caucus nears as the first test for the candidates in 2012. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Fighting terrorism at home and abroad
21 November 2011
Radio 2UE Sydney
In this interview Brendon O'Connor discusses the effectiveness of American counter-terrorism strategies on home soil following a foiled bomb plot in New York City. Also covered is how the war on terrorism is being conducted in Afghanistan and how the situation there has been affected by US occupation. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Obama's visit to Australia sends biggest recognition of declining US power: expert
20 November 2011
Xinhua News Global Edition
Featuring in this report is Brendon O'Connor who says Obama's recent comments on Australia indicate the US is recognizing the growing influence of Asia-Pacific countries in a century that looks quite different to the last. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre. Read article
What the Obama visit means for Australia
17 November 2011
Sky News The Nation
The US Studies Centre's Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor features in this high profile panel discussion about the political, military and economic implications of the visit to Australia by Barack Obama. Watch Online
President adds "personal touch" to alliance
17 November 2011
SBS World News Australia
Brendon O'Connor tells Anton Enus that while Barack Obama spoke of many predictable aspects of the US-Australian alliance during his speech to the Australian parliament, the President made an effort to distinguish his remarks for this moment in history. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama’s speech to Parliament: experts respond
17 November 2011
The Conversation
The US Studies Centre's Geoffrey Garrett and Brendon O'Connor feature in this survey of experts asked about what US President Barack Obama's speech to parliament means for Australia and the globe.
Read more
Deeper military ties could complicate Australian relationship
17 November 2011
ABC News AM
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor from Sydney University's US Studies Centre says greater military cooperation between the US and Australia could present greater challenges to the relationship. Listen Online
More to visit than meets the eye
16 November 2011
ABC News 24
Brendon O'Connor tells Juanita Phillips that while Australians can't expect US presidents to spend much time visiting, this trip by Barack Obama is more than just a polite gesture. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Special relationship? Why Gillard needs to talk tough with Obama about US military base
16 November 2011
The Conversation
Brendon O'Connor says we should be glad Obama is here but let’s negotiate strategically rather than being overawed by his presence on our soil. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
All eyes on Obama
15 November 2011
SBS World News Australia Radio
Featuring in this report by Ron Sutton on the US President's visit to Australia is Brendon O'Connor, who says too much can be read into the strength of personal ties between presidents and prime ministers. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
No surprises with Darwin announcement
13 November 2011
702 ABC Radio Sydney
Despite the media excitement over the proposed training facility for US Marines in Darwin, Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the move does not have the significance of previous US-Australia initiatives such as Pine Gap during the Cold War. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Our very special friendship
12 November 2011
The Canberra Times
Featuring in this article by Judith Ireland is Brendon O'Connor, who considers the previous postponements and impending arrival of US President Barack Obama to Australia. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Jackson case prompts questions about jury
8 November 2011
Triple J Hack
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor features in this report about the court case that saw Michael Jackson's physician being found guilt of involuntary manslaughter. O'Connor comments on the resources legal teams devote to finding jurors who will be sympathetic to their case. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
The power of personality – why we all follow the soap opera of American politics
20 October 2011
The Conversation
Brendon O'Connor dissects the global fascination with US politics, arguing it is a combination of interest in America's power as well as the 'soap opera' entertainment value it regularly provides. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Pakistan and US tensions brewing
1 October 2011
Radio 2SER
Brendon O'Connor discusses the political implications of a senior US military official recently telling a senate hearing the Pakistan intelligence service is affiliated with the Haqqani terrorist network. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Should we have a pledge of allegiance at schools?
29 September 2011
The Punch
In this story by Daniel Piotrowski, Brendon O'Connor comments on the pledge of allegiance in the United States and the proposal for a similar pledge for Australian school students. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Georgia condemned over execution
24 September 2011
Radio 2SER Sydney
Brendon O'Connor talks about the controversy surrounding the death penalty used this week in America's southern state of Georgia. He says many of the other states turned against the death penalty as it found innocent people had been executed in the past. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen online
President Obama's speeches
22 September 2011
ABC News Radio
Brendon O’Connor discusses US President Barack Obama’s speech to the United Nations, noting the pressures he faces on the issue of Palestinian statehood. Brendon O’Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning at the US Studies Centre. Listen online
Barack Obama's tax plan
20 September 2011
SBS World News Australia
Brendon O'Connor speaks to SBS World News Australia about Obama's tax plan. He says Obama has been reasonable until this point, but is now putting forward his idea for a tax plan to show he can be tougher and take the lead. Brendon O'Connnor is an Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning. Watch online
Anti-terrorism 10 Years after 9/11
14 September 2011
CRI English Online
Brendon O'Connor discusses ten years on, after September the 11th terrorist attacks, U.S. efforts to root out terrorism. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics. Listen Online
Yes he is: officials 'confident' Obama will visit ... this time
14 September 2011
The Canberra Times
In this report on the recent announcement of US President Barack Obama's planned visit, Brendon O'Connor puts the previous postponements in perspective. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Jackie Kennedy tapes continue the Chamelot obsession
14 September 2011
702 ABC Sydney Drive
In this interview with Richard Glover, Brendon O'Connor explains why the freshly released tapes of Jackie Kennedy discussing her private and public life are continuing the legacy of the Kennedy family fascinating America and the world. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Changes in the political landscape after 9/11
12 September 2011
National Radio News
Brendon O'Connor talks about the aftermath of 9/11 and how it continues to affected politics and government policy in the US and Australia. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics. Listen Online
A special on the anniversary of the World Trade Centre attacks
11 September 2011
Sky News
This is a special interview with Brendon O'Connor on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. He talks about his own personal experience with the World Trade Centre, and how the event shaped the future. He also discusses the relationship between America and Australia and how that was affected by the events. Brendon O'Connnor is an Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning. Watch online
A Decade on after the attacks on America
9 September 2011
2SM Radio
Brendon O'Connor discusses the aftermath of 9/11 and how it has affected all of us 10 years on. The bali bombings was also an event which occurred 10 years ago which has not been forgotten. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning. Listen online
Americans are people too
9 September 2011
On Line Opinion
On my virgin visit to America in the mid-1990s my first stop was Time Square. I had a strong sensation – like many tourists before me – that I had already been to New York City. In a certain sense I had, courtesy of the films of Woody Allen and numerous other directors. I came to know New York better a few years later when I worked briefly in the World Trade Center for an organisation that researched drug abuse and HIV/AIDS. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning at the United States Studies Centre. Read article
Confused superpower
7 September 2011
The Australian Literary Review
Brendon O'Connor writes about his experiences in New York City. He says the twin towers were one of the most recognisable monuments to American wealth and power. In the days after their destruction much was written about the symbolism of targeting these particular buildings. French provocateur Jean Baudrillard wrote that the attacks joined "the white magic of movies and the black magic of terrorism". Although Baudrillard was criticised for trivialising the attacks, his words very effectively hit on how both Americans and non-Americans have fantasised about the destruction of America's might. Brendon O'Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read more
The legacy of 9/11
6 September 2011
ABC Radio National Australia Talks
Brendon O'Connor is interviewed on ABC National Radio by Paul Barclay. The September 11 terror attacks on the World Trade Centre changed everything, former US vice-president Dick Cheney told us back then. But have they? A decade later, are we still afraid and do we still support the war on terror? Has US influence in the world diminished and how has the relationship with the Muslim world shifted? Brendon O'Connor is the Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning. Listen Online
September 11: Tenth Anniversary
31 August 2011
In the lead-up to the tenth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11 2001, the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney has the following experts available to provide commentary regarding the attacks, the subsequent decade and future ramifications: Read more
Credit ratings a concern for the US
2 August 2011
Hack on Triple J Radio
In this interview with Tom Tilley, Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the politics involved in the debt ceiling crisis may yet result in the undesirable outcome in the downgrading of the American government's credit rating. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Debt and Washington DC politics
2 August 2011
The Perrett Report on Sky News Business Channel
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the difficulty US President Barack Obama faced in having to compromise with anti-tax Republicans in order to see the debt ceiling raised. O'Connor also talks about the US economy and how things might look at the end of 2012 when the debt ceiling will resurface as an issue in the presidential election campaign. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Republicans win argument
30 July 2011
SBS World News Australia
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the Republicans in US Congress have more or less won the argument over the debt ceiling issue based on the policy outcomes agreed to by congressional Democrats and US President Barack Obama. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama has to decide his approach to the debt crisis
29 July 2011
Melbourne Talk Radio
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connrr talks to MTR about the debt crisis. He says Obama has to find a solution to the crisis and make a decision to work through the issues. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning Listen Online
Obama to decide the approach to the debt crisis
29 July 2011
Melbourne Talk Radio
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor talks to MTR about the debt crisis. He says Obama has to find a solution to the crisis and make a decision to work through the issues. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning. Listen Online
Republican presidential candidates and the debt crisis
28 July 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview with Kim Landers, Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses two of the likely frontrunners for the Republican Party's nomination for the 2012 presidential race. Also discussed is the ongoing debt ceiling crisis engulfing Washington and the nation. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Spending cuts a sticking point for Republicans
28 July 2011
Hack on Triple J
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor explains in this report on the debt ceiling crisis that it is Republicans in the House of Representatives who are pressing for major spending cuts that are considered too deep by US President Barack Obama, who argues for an alternative involving the raising of some taxation levels. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Barack Obama has called for a balanced approach to addressing the debt crisis
26 July 2011
Sky News National
In the Inerview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the political parties don't seem to be able to find a middle ground on the debt crisis. Brendon O'Connor is the Associate Professor in American Politics & Director of Teaching and Learning at the United States Studies Centre. Watch online
Debt talks continue
25 July 2011
ABC News 24
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the Republicans in the US House of Representatives are the group causing most of the anti-debt rhetoric as the talks over the need to raise the country's debt ceiling continue without resolution. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
American foreign policy under Obama
18 July 2011
China International Radio
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor assesses US President Barack Obama's handling of foreign policy matters during his first 30 months in office. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Debt ceiling date looms
14 July 2011
Radio 2GB Sydney
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor tells Ross Greenwood that the politics of the US debt situation is reaching crisis point as President Barack Obama and Republicans in congress cannot seem to agree on raising the government's debt ceiling. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Military cuts strain US-Pakistan relations
13 July 2011
SBS World News Australia
The decision by the United States to withhold $800 million worth of military aid to Pakistan has been caused by a "two-way breakdown" of relations between the two nations, says Brendon O'Connor in this interview. O'Connor explains that relations have been strained for a long time, but that since the raid on Osama bin Laden they have become much worse. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
The place of primaries in the election process
7 July 2011
SYN Radio
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor explains how the state-by-state primary elections provide the means for both of the major parties to select their presidential candidate to run for office. O'Connor also canvasses a few of the Republican hopefuls for the 2012 race. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Obama in stand-off with Republicans
4 July 2011
The Perrett Report on Sky Business Channel
In this interview with Janine Perrett, Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the troubled US economy, and the feud between how President Obama and the Republican majority in Congress want to proceed with addressing the federal government's debt issues. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Bin Laden changes Obama's Afghanistan game plan
23 June 2011
702 ABC Sydney
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor tells Robbie Buck that the killing of Osama bin Laden has provided US President Barack Obama with greater reason to pull out of Afghanistan, considering the justification of the war was to remove Al Qaeda from their stronghold there. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Afghanistan on the table
23 June 2011
The Voice of Russia
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the behind-the-scenes politics of the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan will have a big impact on just how long American troops remain in the war-torn country. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Republican presidential debate
14 June 2011
ABC News 24
As the Republican party search for the right candidate to go up against Barack Obama, Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the recent candidate debate in New Hampshire was strongly focused on the US economy and unemployment. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre. Watch Online
Australians think the war on terrorism is failing
11 June 2011
2SER Razors Edge
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the findings of The US Studies Centre 2011 survey, Americans and Australians Compared: Ten Years After 9/11, revealing that more than sixty percent of Australians believe that the war on terror will never end. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Questions over troop withdrawal in Afghanistan
24 May 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview Brendon O'Connor discusses the likelihood of America beginning its troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in mid-2011 as it has previously stated. O'Connor says the key word is "transition", arguing that the Afghani summer is typically the most violent period of the year which may change the expected stages of troop withdrawal. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Bin Laden no cure-all for Obama
4 May 2011
SBS World News Australia
Brendon O'Connor says the range of domestic and international issues weighing on US President Barack Obama will shortly return to the top of the media agenda once the initial hype about Osama Bin Laden settles down. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Media and public hungry for more
4 May 2011
ABC News 24
Brendon O'Connor says that while the media and many in the American public want to see photographic evidence and further details about the Bin Laden killing, there are plenty more important issues facing America at the present time. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Threat of home-grown terror
3 May 2011
Triple J Hack
In this report on the potential for home-grown terrorist reprisals in America following the death of Osama Bin Laden, Brendon O'Connor argues US authorities are extremely vigilant about this threat, making an attack unlikely. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Obama's 2012 re-election prospects boosted
2 May 2011
2CC Radio Canberra
In this interview with Mike Welsh, Brendon O'Connor discusses how the Bin Laden factor is going to feed into the 2012 election campaign both for Barack Obama and whoever the Republican opponent will be. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Afghanistan the next big question
2 May 2011
ABC News Radio
Brendon O'Connor says the bringing to justice of Osama Bin Laden could provide the necessary political capital for Barack Obama to move in the direction of getting out of Afghanistan. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Expert view: bin Laden’s death a boon for Obama
2 May 2011
The Conversation
Featuring in this panel of experts discussing the death of Osama Bin Laden, Brendon O'Connor says special forces performing targeted operations like the one that got Bin Laden might have been preferable to the large-scale war in Afghanistan. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Bin Laden and American foreign policy
2 May 2011
666 ABC Radio Canberra
Tom Switzer says that despite the successful elimination of Osama Bin Laden, the War On Terror remains an operation fraught with problems. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Osama Bin Laden dead
2 May 2011
ABC News 24
Brendon O'Connor says Osama Bin Laden's death in a "firefight" with US special forces is a major achievement for US President Barack Obama following the Al-Qaeda leader's unknown whereabouts over the decade since the September 11 terrorist attacks. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Will the death of Bin Laden boost Obama?
2 May 2011
Sky News
In this interview given shortly after the death of Osama Bin Laden, Brendon O'Connor says that the significance of Bin Laden's death may temporarily boost the confidence of the US and discusses the potential of President Obama's credentials lifting after achieving a major goal in his first term. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Dramas in Obama's 2012 bid
9 April 2011
The Canberra Times
Featuring in this report by Judith Ireland about Barack Obama's 2012 bid for re-election, Brendon O'Connor says the president may become a victim of the exceedingly high standards he set for himself during his 2008 election campaign. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Discord over budget
8 April 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor argues that despite the intense meetings taking place to resolve disagreements between Democrats and Republicans over government spending, the overhanging issue of America's debt problem is unlikely to be properly addressed by either side.
Watch Online
What’s tea got to do with US politics and the US federal budget?
8 April 2011
2SER The Wire
In this interview Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the current state of the political system in America, including the appeal of the conservative Tea Party movement and issues related to reform. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Obama reversal on military trials for 9/11 cases
5 April 2011
ABC News 24
The Obama administration has made a major policy reversal by deciding to prosecute Khalid Shaikh Mohammed and four other people accused of plotting the September 11 terrorist attacks before a military commission and not a civilian court, as it once planned. In this interview US Studies Centre Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor examines the reasons for the reversal and the political implications for Barack Obama's 2012 re-election campaign.
Watch Online
Gillard speech to congress reexamined
16 March 2011
612 ABC Brisbane (radio)
In this interview with Steve Austin, Brendon O'Connor says Julia Gillard's address to congress in America last week was typical of her populist approach to speaking since she became Prime Minister midway through last year. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Sentimentality vs strategy: seeking influence in the USA
14 March 2011
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Brendon O'Connor contrasts the Gillard/Howard approach to relations with America with the tactics of Keating and Rudd, arguing that apart from the sentimental appeal to mutual loyalty that helps protect Australia in a worst-case scenario, there is not a great deal to recommend such an approach. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor of American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Prime Minister's speech to congress examined
10 March 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview Brendon O'Connor says Prime Minister Julia Gillard's speech was welcome to American ears though not visionary in its content. Brendon O'Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Gillard signals strong support for its key ally
10 March 2011
SBS World News Australia
Brendon O'Connor says Australian Ambassador to America and former Labor leader Kim Beazley would have been a key contributor to Prime Minister Julia Gillard's speech to congress. Brendon O'Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Gillard in Washington
7 March 2011
ABC News 24
The multiple situations in the Middle East are likely to come up when Barack Obama meets with Julia Gillard, though Brendon O'Connor says US military intervention in Libya is highly unlikely. In this interview with Joe O'Brien, O'Connor also discusses the rare opportunity the Australian Prime Minister has to add lustre to her image through her address to Congress. Brendon O'Connor is associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama gives pep talk to the nation
26 January 2011
ABC News 24
In this analysis Brendon O'Connor likens Barack Obama's 2011 State of the Union address to his inauguration speech as a call for national unity in the face of hard times. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
State of the Union
26 January 2011
SBS World News Australia
US President Barack Obama delivered the annual State of the Union address with an estimated American audience of 50 million people. In this interview Brendon O'Connor appraises President Obama's speech. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Brendon O'Connor previews the President's State of the Union address
26 January 2011
ABC NewsRadio
John Barron asks associate professor in US politics Brendon O'Connor what he expects the main focus of Barack Obama's State of the Union address to be. Listen Online
President's popularity on the rise
26 January 2011
ABC News 24
Brendon O'Connor says US President Barack Obama is enjoying a rise in popularity after a tough 2010 which is a confidence booster for him ahead of the State of the Union address. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
The politics of the Arizona shooting
12 January 2011
The attempted assassination of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords which left six people dead and fourteen wounded has caused some to blame the hostile political environment for the tragedy. In this interview Brendon O'Connor examines the political repercussions of the shooting, particularly focussing on the role of weapon-related political language in political discourse and the similarities of this most recent incident with the Oklahoma Bombing in 1995. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Watch Online
Echoes of terrorism in wake of Arizona shooting
10 January 2011
ABC News (online)
In the wake of the shooting that killed six people including a federal judge and critically wounded a US congresswoman, Brendon O'Connor says there will be quite a lot of soul searching to do with the level of vitriole of the past year in US politics. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Arnie in the age of ultra-patriotism
10 January 2011
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Arnold Schwarzenegger's greatest legacy may well be that he charted a path that is ultimately very different from that promoted by George W. Bush or Sarah Palin, argues Brendon O'Connor. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Read article
Was political rhetoric responsible for shooting?
10 January 2011
ABC 702 Sydney
In this interview Brendon O’Connor discusses whether the current political climate can be linked in any way to the recent Arizona shooting, and advocates the need for responsible use of rhetoric in public debate. Brendon O’Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen online
Gun culture in the US
10 January 2011
ABC News 24
Following the attempted assassination of US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in Arizona, Brendon O’Connor examines whether any linkage can be made between the shooting and the currently hostile political environment in America. Brendon O’Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre. Watch online
Republicans win the House of Representatives
6 January 2011
ABC News 24
With the US Republican party gaining control of the House of Representatives, Brendon O’Connor discusses the potential difficulties the Obama administration may face with the new political landscape. Brendon O’Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre. Watch online
What’s next for Arnold Schwarzenegger?
3 January 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview Brendon O'Connor discusses what the future may hold for former Californian governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the struggles his administration faced amidst economic difficulty. Brendon O'Connor is an associate professor in American politics at the US Studies Centre. Watch Online
Legacy of a deal maker
14 December 2010
ABC News 24 The World
Known best for his leading role in negotiating an end to the war in Bosnia 15 years ago, Richard Holbrooke was a valuable member of numerous White House administrations, says Brendon O'Connor in this interview with Scott Bevan. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
WikiLeaks under pressure
9 December 2010
ABC Radio The World Today with Eleanor Hall
There is some confusion over just what pressure the United States Government has been applying to curtail the activities of WikiLeaks. In this report US Studies Centre Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor contends that attempts to block Wikileaks are unlikely to succeed.
Listen Online
Inside information redefined
9 December 2010
ABC News Radio
Brendon O'Connor tells John Barron the Australian and US governments are now living in a world where acquiring knowledge ahead of the public is a much more difficult task. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
The blame game over WikiLeaks
9 December 2010
ABC2 News Breakfast
As Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd points the finger at the US Government as being more to blame for the leaked cables than even Julian Assange, Brendon O'Connor discusses how effective diplomacy and freedom of the press do not always go hand-in-hand. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Leaks classified but not top secret
1 December 2010
612 ABC Brisbane
The latest Wikileaks controversy is more embarassing than damaging for America according Brendon O'Connor, who discusses with Steve Austin that the documents made available in this instance are 'classified' but not 'top secret'. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Latest leaks embarass the United States
30 November 2010
Triple J's Hack program
The latest leak of classified information on the Wikileaks website is a trend that is very likely to continue, considering the amount of people involved in gathering information for government departments and agencies, according to Brendon O'Connor who features in this report by John Barrington. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
WikiLeaks causes more controversy
29 November 2010
ABC News 24 The World
The latest scandal affecting the international standing of the United States has again been initiated by Wikileaks, a website that earlier in the year released thousands of classified documents about the war in Afghanistan. In this interview with Scott Bevan, Brendon O'Connor says the latest round of leaks has more to do with America's international diplomacy than the previous leak which focussed on US military operations. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
History never quite repeats
8 November 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Brendon O'Connor notes that supporters of Obama have drawn some solace from the fact that Bill Clinton's shellacking in the first mid-term elections of his presidency in 1994 did not prevent him from bouncing back to win re-election in 1996. Brendon O'Connor is associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Hillary Clinton visit
8 November 2010
The Drum on ABC News 24
In this panel discussion Brendon O'Connor discusses US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton's visit to Australia and the topic of defence collaboration between the two nations. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
America and Australia still best friends
7 November 2010
ABC News 24
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the visit to Australia by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton who has reaffirmed that Australia and the US have a strong partnership. Clinton is visiting Australia as part of a tour of several South East Asian and will attend meetings with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd. US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is also in Australia for high level talks on Australia's role in Afghanistan. Watch Online
Communication a surprising problem for Obama
5 November 2010
ABC News 24 The World
Brendon O'Connor says few could have expected communication would be a major problem for the President, not only in terms of delivering his positive message but also failing to pin appropriate economic blame on the Bush-Cheney era. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Democrats left reeling
3 November 2010
Radio National Australia Talks
Brendon O'Connor, Pete Hatemi, Don Debats and Stephen Loosley analyse the results of today's midterm elections in the US and discuss the implications for the legislature in coming years. Listen Online
US midterm smackdown
3 November 2010
Triple J Hack
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses today's midterm election results in which the Republicans have gained control of the House of Representatives and seriously diminished the Democratic majority in the Senate. Listen Online
Historic swing to the Republicans
3 November 2010
SBS Online
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says the result of the US midterm elections is a huge setback for the Obama administration who will have to review their agenda for the final two years of the President's first term. Listen Online
Democrats lose House of Representatives
3 November 2010
Sky News
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor provides commentary and analysis of the 2010 midterm elections in America. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama less compelling as President
3 November 2010
ABC2 News Breakfast
Barack Obama has made the mistake of not living up to his reputation for public speaking since taking office as President according to Brendon O'Connor, Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. In a discussion focussed on the midterm elections, O'Connor also notes the boost the Tea Party movement has given to the Republican Party.
Watch Online
Democrats facing defeat
1 November 2010
ABC News 24
Two years after Barack Obama's stunning election victory his party is facing heavy defeats in the Senate and House of Representatives. What has gone wrong for Obama and the Democrats? Can Obama bounce back? Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the midterm elections in this interview. Watch Online
Obama set to take mid-term election hit
27 October 2010
SBS World View
In this interview Brendon O'Connor puts the coming midterm elections in historical perspective, noting the dynamic between President and Congress has been intriguing for at least the last half-century. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
US Midterms likely to stall Obama agenda
26 October 2010
2SER The Wire
Next week's midterm elections are likely to involve a swing toward conservatives at the expense of President Obama's Democratic Party. Brendon O'Connor says the change is remarkable considering where popular sentiment was just two years ago. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Another Mars-Venus divide?
25 October 2010
The latest edition of the Australian Journal of International Affairs features an article co-authored by Brendon O'Connor, titled "Another Mars-Venus divide? Why Australia said 'yes' and Canada said 'non' to involvement in the 2003 Iraq War". O'Connor and his Canadian colleague, Srdjan Vucetic, say that while the views of Prime Ministers Howard and Chretien were important, more attention ought to be given to public opinion, the history of both countries and the dominant views within the ruling parties. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Read article
What's wrong with American politics? The Congress
11 October 2010
ABC The Drum Unleashed
Brendon O'Connor argues the American system of government and its parliamentary practices are in serious need of renovation. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Tea Party causes stir for Republicans
16 September 2010
SBS World News Australia
The Tea Party movement has successfully secured a number of candidates running as Republicans in the coming congressional elections. Expert in US politics, Brendon O'Connor discusses the state of affairs as the November looms. Brendon O'Connor is Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama needs to find a way to kick some goals at home
30 July 2010
The Australian
President Obama lacks the common touch that made Reagan and Clinton popular leaders, according to Brendon O'Connor, Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. O'Connor says that the ailing economy is adding to the President's woes due to the tendency of the American public to pin economic blame on the man in the White House. Read article
Gulf oil spill presses President
16 June 2010
ABC News Radio
US President Barack Obama gave his first address from the Oval Office about his government's response to the Gulf oil spill, saying BP will be made to pay for the clean up. In this interview Brendon O'Connor discusses the political implications of the disaster on the Obama presidency. Brendon O'Connor is an Associate Professor in American Politics at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Pressure on Israel as world condemns raid of aid flotilla
6 June 2010
Sky Sunday Agenda
Israel has been heavily condemned around the world following a botched raid by Israeli commandos on an aid convoy bound for the blockaded Gaza strip. Nine activists died in the encounter. Turkey is disappointed that the US have not publicly condemned Israel for their actions. Associate Professor in US Politics Brendon O'Connor discusses the issues. Watch Online
Gulf oil spill delays Obama visit to Australia
4 June 2010
ABC NewsRadio
The ongoing effects of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has resulted in the cancellation of Barack Obama's visit to Australia and Indonesia this month. Associate Professor in US Politics Brendon O'Connor says Obama has a number of complex issues confronting him which require his immediate attention. Listen Online
Obama cancels visit to Australia
4 June 2010
2GB
President Barack Obama has cancelled his trip to Australia for the second time. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says that the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has become a major political problem for Obama requiring him to stay in the US. O'Connor says that the US-Australia relationship is still strong and that Obama is likely to visit later this year or early in 2011. Listen Online
Has Obama changed the world in 18 months?
31 May 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Brendon O'Connor, Associate Professor of American Politics at the US Studies Centre, considers what impact the Obama presidency has had on world opinion of America. He says enthusiasm across Western Europe and in Australia for Obama’s election in 2008 revealed how keen many Westerners are to see America as a positive force in the world and is suggestive of the Western tendency to buy into exceptionalist views about America. Read article
Reforms give more Americans access to health care
22 March 2010
The Wire
Millions more Americans will have access to health care following a historic vote in the House of Representatives. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor explains why there is so much opposition to the health care legislation. Listen Online
Obama trip cancelled
19 March 2010
Sky News
US Studies Centre Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor explains why the domestic issue of healthcare reform has delayed the President. O'Connor goes on to predict what is likely to happen in Washington DC in the coming days as well as how Australia can best relate to the US through the planned Presidential visit in June. Watch Online
Up in the air
15 March 2010
SBS World News
This newspiece examines the issues surrounding the delay to the planned trip by President Barack Obama to Australia and Indonesia. In it the US Studies Centre's Brendon O'Connor, Associate Professor of American Politics, tries to predict whether the President will arrive as currently planned. Watch Online
Smith steps up condemnation of Israel over 1600 new settler homes
12 March 2010
The Sydney Morning Herald
In this report by Kirsty Needham the US Studies Centres' Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor and Postdoctoral Fellow Jeremy Pressman are interviewed about the significance of the latest controversy involving Israeli settlements on disputed land. Read article
The United States of Weirdness? From the 'birthers' to the Oath Keepers
3 March 2010
The Drum (ABC Online)
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor discusses the latest anti-government and anti-Obama movements and the long history behind such groups' use of the American Revolution and the US Constitution as "their talismans and justifications in nearly every argument". Read Article
New series highlights diversity of American foreign policy traditions
11 February 2010
A new series from Associate Professor Brendon O’Connor aims to highlight the variety within US foreign policy history. As editor of the four‐volume series, Dr O’Connor has drawn on the best existing scholarship on America’s foreign policy to examine both the development of the so called American tradition and the emergence of what Dr O’Connor calls the anti‐American tradition. Read More
Obama's visit to Australia: What's on the agenda?
2 February 2010
Ten News
US President, Barack Obama, will visit Australia in March. Associate Professor in US Politics, Brendon O'Connor, analyses what this means for US-Australia relations and what he expects Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Obama will discuss.
Watch Online
Obama plans to fix the economy
29 January 2010
SBS World View
Brendon O'Connor says President Obama has made it clear in his State of the Union address that he will focus on domestic issue during his second year as President. Listen Online
Obama outlines his agenda for 2010
28 January 2010
SBS World News
In his first State of the Union address, Barack Obama has focused on domestic issues, says Associate Professor in US Politics, Brendon O'Connor. Watch Online
State of the Union expert analysis
28 January 2010
Sky
Associate Professor in American Politics, Brendon O'Connor, provides expert analysis of President Barack Obama's first State of the Union address. Watch Online
A blow for the Democrats and democracy in the USA
25 January 2010
On Line Opinion
Scott Brown’s victory in Massachusetts highlights the dysfunctions of the US legislative system more than ever, writes Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Big setback for Obama administration
21 January 2010
ABC Midday Report
Barack Obama enjoyed unprecedented support during his election campaign but a year later his popularity is rapidly declining. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor says this week's shock loss of the Massachusetts Senate seat formerly held by the Democrat Edward Kennedy is due to dissatisfaction with the Obama administration's progress on a number of key issues. Watch Online
Increasing demand for food assistance in the US
21 November 2009
2ser
Forty-nine million people in the United States struggle to get enough food to eat. Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor comments on this alarming statistic. Listen Online
Talkin' 'bout Obama
20 November 2009
ABC Radio Brisbane
Brendon O'Connor from the US Studies Centre suggests that the gloss may be wearing off the Obama machine and Anthony Dever talks about the whereabouts of one of the key players in the 2008 election, Obama Girl. Listen Online
Obama arrives in South Korea
19 November 2009
ABC2 Breakfast
Barack Obama has arrived in South Korea for the final stop of his visit to Asia. Discussion is expected to focus on North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Associate Professor in American Politics, Brendon O'Connor, provides analysis of Obama's visit to China and Japan. Watch Online
Obama visits Asia
13 November 2009
Sky Agenda
The US Studies Centre's Brendon O'Connor and James Morrow discuss President Obama's visit to the Asian region. Obama will visit Japan, China, South Korea and Singapore and has a number of issues to address. Watch Online
Engaging with Asia
11 November 2009
Australian Network Newshour
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor is interviewed about Barack Obama's visit to Asia. Watch Online
Republicans victorious in two key elections for governor
5 November 2009
ABC2 Breakfast
Elections for governor in the states of New Jersey and Virginia were being viewed as the first electoral test for Barack Obama's leadership. Dr Brendon O'Connor is interviewed about the election results on the first anniversary of Barack Obama's election as President. Watch Online
Obama one year on: Has change come to America?
4 November 2009
SBS World News
A year since Obama's election as US President, opinion is divided on his performance. This week's elections in the US show decreasing support for the Democrats. This is a review of the major issues the President is facing with comments from Dr Brendon O'Connor. Watch Online
A year of change?
4 November 2009
ABC Unleashed
One year ago today Barack Obama was elected President of the United States, and in what is being seen as a test of the administration so far, the Democrats have lost ground to the Republicans in two key elections. While he is doing a good job on many fronts, Obama has so far failed to deliver the transformational presidency of his campaign rhetoric, says Dr Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
The shuffle president
4 November 2009
ABC Triple J
In Obama's first year his approval rating has greatly declined. In this interview, Dr Brendon O'Connor is asked if Obama promised too much. Listen Online
Has Obama brought about change?
4 November 2009
ABC NewsRadio
One year since the election of Barack Obama as the 44th US President, Dr Brendon O'Connor is asked if Obama's policies have improved foreign relations. Listen Online
Fine words from Obama but little action to date
4 November 2009
The Canberra Times
It seems climate change is a low priority for the US President, Dr Brendon O'Connor writes. Read Article
Dominick Dunne and Edward Kennedy: Two American lives with a second act
20 October 2009
On Line Opinion
In August this year, the death of Dominick Dunne, the renowned special correspondent for Vanity Fair and best-selling author who chronicled the trials and affairs of American high society barely made a blip on the international news radar, with his death coming one day after that of Senator Edward Kennedy. Katherine Delaney and Brendon O'Connor write that Kennedy and Dunne shared more than the same era in American history. Read Article
The extraordinary life of Edward Kennedy
30 August 2009
Sky News Sunday Agenda
Brendon O'Connor reflects on the influential and high profile career of the youngest Kennedy brother. Watch Online
The end of the Kennedy Dynasty
27 August 2009
ABC Unleashed
Edward Moore Kennedy is dead and with his death so ends arguably the most remarkable political run of any group of siblings in the history of democratic politics, writes Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin quits
27 July 2009
ABC Radio National PM
With 18 months to go in her term, Sarah Palin has resigned as the Governor of Alaska, prompting further speculation she may run for US president in 2010. Brendon O'Connor is interviewed. Listen Online
Walter Cronkite dies
24 July 2009
2ser
Brendon O'Connor discusses the legacy of CBS anchor Walter Cronkite, who recently passed away aged 92. He was considered the most trusted man in America. Listen Online
Once upon a time in America
15 July 2009
ABC Unleashed
Brendon O'Connor wonders what is next for the "overexposed" Sarah Palin, following her resignation as Governor of Alaska. Read Article
Brendon O'Connor address World Affairs Council
25 June 2009
US Studies Centre academic, Brendon O'Connor, visited Washington to DC to address the World Affairs Council on his research "American ignorance and global anti-Americanism". Watch Online
The making of Obama as a modern-day Jefferson
17 April 2009
The Australian
When it comes to foreign policy, the 44th US President should take a leaf from No. 3's book, contends Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Have you noticed... we're pro-America again?
12 April 2009
The Sunday Telegraph
Article about new attitudes to America since Obama's presidency win, with quotes from Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Desperately seeking Sam?
1 April 2009
ABC Unleashed
Maintaining a close relationship between Australia and the US once Bush left office was always going to be challenging and the fear of being forgotten is now in full display in the national media in Australia, writes Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Reading Obama
1 April 2009
Australian Book Review
Brendon O'Connor reviews Barack Obama's autobiography as well as several biographies written about the US president. Read Article
O'Connor and Beazley speak at forum in Perth
13 March 2009
On March 10 US Studies Centre staff member Brendon O'Connor appeared at a public forum on the Obama Administration at the University of Western Australia. Read More
Brendon O'Connor interview
25 February 2009
SBS World News
Associate Professor Brendon O'Connor speaks about President Obama's latest policies and the challenges of cutting the US budget deficit. Watch Online
Obama: our mate?
20 November 2008
Herald Sun
People around the globe are nervously waiting to see whether Obama's administration will look after American industries at the expense of businesses in Australia and its other trading partners, write Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
Learning to rumble in the Chicago jungle
14 November 2008
The New Zealand Herald
Brendon O'Connor writes that the degree to which Barack Obama's political career has been helped by good fortune - and a certain ruthlessness - has been underreported. Read Article
Obama will need his ruthless streak
11 November 2008
The Australian
Barack Obama has won by playing hard; now he faces an even tougher test, argues Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
The best of luck, the worst of luck
10 November 2008
ABC Unleashed
Before the 2008 elections out of a total of 1,907 US Senators only three black Senators had been elected and only two black governors had been elected out of a total of 2,338 governors. Brendon O'Connor writed about how Obama defied these odds. Read Article
So far so good - but now for the hard part
6 November 2008
The Age
Daniel Flitton speaks to Brendon O'Connor about Obama's landslide victory in the presidential election. Read Article
Local hopes riding on Barack Obama
5 November 2008
The Australian
Guy Healy quotes Brendon O'Connor on anti-American sentiment in relation to the presidential election. Read Article
Brendon O'Connor reviews 'The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism'
1 November 2008
Australian Book Review
Brendon O'Connor reviews Andrew Bacevich's book The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism. Read Article
Anti-US sentiment will grow if John McCain wins US election, expert warns
28 October 2008
The Australian
Guy Healy interviews Brendon O'Connor about concerns that anti-US sentiment will grow if John McCain becomes the next US president. Read Article
US Studies Centre appoints leading academics
27 October 2008
The United States Studies Centre has appointed four leading social scientists with expertise in key areas of interest for the US and Australia. Political scientists Margaret Levi and Brendon O'Connor join the Centre's permanent staff. Public health expert Lawrence Gostin and public opinion analyst Simon Jackman will lead research projects at the Centre in 2009. Read Media Release
How to influence people and lose friends
23 October 2008
The Courier Mail
A McCain-Palin administration could mean America becomes more isolated in world affairs, writes Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
The future of anti-Americanism
21 October 2008
ABC Unleashed
Brendon O'Connor writes that the future of anti-Americanism may depend on the outcome of the US presidential election. Read Article
Brendon O'Connor speaks about the presidential contest
13 October 2008
ABC Radio The World Today
Eleanor Hall speaks to Brendon O'Connor about the presidential contest. Listen Online
Not up to the job
6 October 2008
ABC Unleashed
Brendon O'Connor expresses concern that the Republican candidates are not up to the job, given ongoing concerns about Senator McCain's health and Sarah Palin's apparent lack of knowledge of the key issues facing the US. Read Article
A woman from mars?
3 October 2008
ABC Unleashed
Foreign distaste for American populism is nothing new and Palin fits a well established set of tropes and stereotypes, writes Brendon O'Connor. Read Article
'Anti-Americanism' in Australia
18 September 2008
ABC Unleashed
Dennis Phillips writes that the presidency of George W. Bush has elevated anti-Americanism to a global sport more popular in some quarters than World Cup Football. The end of the Cold War, the emergence, at least temporarily, of the United States as the world's 'hyper-power', and Bush's unfortunate first-term tendency to act unilaterally and then boast about it have inspired many to sound off about how much they hate America. Read Article
