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Does Mitt Romney need a bad economy to win?
27 April 2012
ABC TV Planet America
Mitt Romney has made President Barack Obama's struggle to revive the economy the centrepiece of his campaign, but what happens if a recovery properly takes hold? Research associate John Barron asks research associate Tom Switzer whether Romney has any other argument for why he should be elected president. Watch online
Romney rides Obama backlash
23 April 2012
2GB Breakfast
The Republican primary contest has a de facto winner, and his name is Mitt Romney. The election will be close, research associate Tom Switzer tells Andrew Moore, but the American public is not as enthusiastic about President Barack Obama as it was in 2008, and Romney could be the beneficiary of the backlash. Listen online
Afghanistan mission coming to an end
22 April 2012
Radio National Sunday Extra
Australian troops are to leave Afghanistan, and, research associate Tom Switzer tells Jonathan Green, the US will not be far behind. Has the mission been a success, or is Australia making a mistake? Listen online
It was inevitable that Afghanistan was going to end badly
20 April 2012
The Sydney Morning Herald
Australia's imminent departure from Afghanistan, announced by Prime Minister Julia Gillard this week, is long overdue, writes research associate Tom Switzer. The war in central Asia, he says, is evidence of the limits of the power of even a global hegemon like the United States. Read article
Romney wins but can he win over Republicans?
12 April 2012
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
The timing may have been a surprise to many but Santorum's withdrawal from the primary contest will nevertheless provide a welcome relief for Mitt Romney heading into the general election. But as Research Associate Tom Switzer notes, many question marks still hang over his head. Can he ignite the base and win over independent voters? Listen Online
The circus is over but the show rolls on
11 April 2012
ABC 702 Sydney Mornings
After a marathon primary campaign, Rick Santorum has pulled out of the race to win the Republican nomination, leaving Mitt Romney as the presumptive nominee for 2012. Research Assosciate Tom Switzer assesses the state of the race and looks ahead to the general election. Listen Online
Santorum's star rises but not to presidential heights
11 April 2012
Sky Business Market Day
From a position of relative obscurity, Rick Santorum has managed to become a serious contender for the Republican nomination. Research Associate Tom Switzer says his withdrawl today is timely and will ensure his voice is heard in the GOP for years to come. Watch Online
Santorum bows out
11 April 2012
Sky News Day
Rick Santorum has pulled out of the race for the White House in 2012, leaving Mitt Romney as the man most likely to take on Barack Obama in November. But Research Associate Tom Switzer says the winner of that contest is still unpredictable. Watch Online
The end of the beginning for Romney
11 April 2012
ABC News 24
With the 'conservative alternative' Rick Santorum out of the race, Romney must now convince the Republican base that he is the right man to defeat Obama in November. Research Associate Tom Switzer thinks they may be coming around. Watch Online
US-Iran tensions continue post-nuclear summit
29 March 2012
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Iran and its nuclear ambitions continue to be the subject of much foreign affairs angst across the political spectrum. US Studies Centre Research Associate Tom Switzer examines what it means for Obama and the Republican candidates in an election year. Listen Online
Should Australian troops be brought home from Afghanistan?
25 March 2012
The Sunday Herald Sun
Do Australian troops in Afghanistan provide vital support to the development of local civic institutions, or are they engaged in a futile campaign with no clear mission in a tribally divided land? US Studies Centre Research Associate Tom Switzer argues that it's time to withdraw, while the Lowy Institute's James Brown makes the case for staying. Read article
Romney's electability shines through in Illinois
21 March 2012
ABC TV The Drum
Mitt Romney's win in Illinois may have pushed him closer to the delegate count needed to win the Republican presidential nomination, but the real victory may have been in proving his electability in the suburbs. Research Associate at the US Studies Centre Tom Switzer talks to John Barron about what to look out for over the next few weeks of primary contests. Watch Online
Killings accentuate pressure for early Afghan withdrawl
15 March 2012
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
The NATO-led mission in Afghanistan has been dealt two major blows recently, with the burning of copies of the Koran and the shooting of 16 civilians, including women and children, by a rogue US soldier. Research Assosciate at the US Studies Centre Tom Switzer discusses what this means for moral, the scheduled withdrawl of troops by the US and the ongoing election campaign. Listen Online
Expert Super Tuesday panel dissects the Republican primaries
11 March 2012
ABC News Radio Inside America
As part of the US Studies Centre's Super Tuesday event, ABC NewsRadio host John Barron moderated a expert panel including CEO Professor Geoffrey Garrett, Chair in US Media and National Correspondent of The Atlantic Monthly Professor James Fallows and Research Associate and Editor of The Spectator Australia Tom Switzer. What do the Super Tuesday results mean for the Republican candidates and who will win the presidency in November? Listen Online
What have we learned from Super Tuesday?
7 March 2012
The Conversation Online
Voting in the Super Tuesday Republican primaries has ended in every participating state except Alaska and the results have been mixed. Front runners Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum have all claimed states with Ohio on a knife edge but leaning towards Romney. Tom Switzer of the United States Studies Centre analyses what today’s results tell us about who will face President Barack Obama on election day in November. Read Online
The race is far from over after Super Tuesday
7 March 2012
Sky Business
Romney may have won a qualified victory in the multi-state Super Tuesday but he is heading for a brusing run in the next few weeks with primaries and caucuses in conservative southern states. Research Assosciate Tom Swtizer analyses the results and explains tat the race still has a way to go before the candidate is known. Watch Online
Romney battles on in Super Tuesday
7 March 2012
Sky News
With the delegates once again divided between the Republican candidates in most of the Super Tuesday contests, Romney nevertheless continues to inch ahead of his rivals. But as Research Associate Tom Switzer explains, his numerical advantage has not yet translated into a devastating blow that can wrap up the nomination. Watch Online
Slim victory for Romney means long campaign to come
7 March 2012
ABC TV The Drum
Romney may have won a slim victory in Ohio but it might not be enough to force any of the other candidates out of the race before the Republican Convention. Research Associate Tom Switzer discusses each of the candidates performances and questions whether Santorum has proven himself unelectable. Watch Online
Super Tuesday only the start of Republican race
5 March 2012
Sky Business Late Agenda
Super Tuesday, normally the moment where the Republican nominee for President is locked in, has this year only revealed how long this campaign may go. US Studies Centre CEO Geoffrey Garrett and Research Associate Tom Switzer discuss each of the nominees chances in the 10 state primary contest and who is most likely to win the nomination. Watch Online
Rudd's resignation as Foreign Minister won't affect US relations
29 February 2012
The Global Times
Kevin Rudd's resignation as Foreign Minister and failed bid for the Prime Ministry was important for Australian politics, but US Studies Centre Research Associate Tom Switzer says the change won't affect Australia's relationships with the US or China. Although Rudd is a fluent Mandarin speaker, Switzer tells the Global Times, the Gillard government's policy of increased military cooperation with the US has bipartisan support and will continue for the forseeable future. Read article
An American Melodrama - The Presidential Campaign in 2012
28 February 2012
The presidential election in November 2012 promises to be tight, and the campaign brutal. Barack Obama will have to spend as much time defending his record as making promises for the future. And with the Republican challenger still yet to be decided, whoever wins the GOP nomination, will have the to unite the party after five years of squabbling and an increasingly ugly primary season.
Research Associate Tom Switzer and Lecturer in US Politics Dr David Smith both offered their unique perspectives on the elections and the outlook for the US at a panel discussion hosted by the Australian Institute for International Affairs. Watch Online
Not only Nixon could go to China
23 February 2012
National Review
"Only Nixon could go to China" has become shorthand for a moment when a political leader makes a move that would anger his supporters if taken by someone without his credentials. But was President Richard Nixon's engagement with China something only a staunch anti-communist like Nixon could do? US Studies Centre Research Associate Tom Switzer says that the rapidly shifting political climate of the late 1960s made Nixon's famous trip one that even a liberal Democrat could have taken. Read article
Avowed anti-communist opened China to the world
18 February 2012
The Australian
On the 40th anniversary of Richard Nixon's historic visit to the People's Republic of China, Research Assosciate at the US Studies Centre Tom Switzer challenges the conventional wisdom that surrounds the trip, suggesting that Nixon's views on China were privately softening even as his public rhetoric remained fiery. Was Nixon ahead of his time in paving the way for a rapprochement or pragmatically adapting his foreign policy to match the changing political climate? Read here
Xi Jinping visit cements a long history of US-China relations
16 February 2012
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
Chinese Vice-President and heir apparent to President Hu Jintao, Xi Jinping, visited the US this week in a trip that combined the pomp and circumstance of an official visit with high level talks about some of the issues that unite and divide the two countries. With the 40th anniversary of President Richard Nixon's groundbreaking visit to China occurring next week, Research Assosciate at the US Studies Centre Tom Switzer talks about how this visit fits into the history of the alliance between the two nations. Listen Online
US forces may end Afghanistan combat role by 2013
2 February 2012
ABC Radio Connect Asia
The United States is hoping to end its combat mission in Afghanistan next year - a year ahead of the previously announced deadline of late 2014. Tom Switzer discusses the domestic and international implications of this decision as well as the on-going Republican primaries. Listen here
Romney gets the upper hand but not the nomination
1 February 2012
Sky News
David Smith and Tom Switzer talk to Sky News about Mitt Romney's latest primary victory in Florida. While both agree that Romney hasn't yet secured the opportunity to face Obama in the general election later in the year, they both outline different views of the challenges that face all the candidates as the race to the White House continues. Watch Online
GOP's first-rate foreign policy chaos
31 January 2012
The Australian
The three leading candidates in the Republican presidential race are all advocating smaller government and a powerful military but these are conflicting goals, writes Tom Switzer. Read article
Obama tries energising US with address
25 January 2012
ABC 7.30
US President Barack Obama used his State of the Union address to try to give an optimistic view of the country as well as to outline tax, energy and foreign policy ideas. Tom Switzer provides expert analysis during this report on Obama's address. Watch online
Reactions to Obama's State of the Union address
25 January 2012
ABC 24
Tom Switzer says the key points of Obama's State of the Union address was the economy and jobs. Watch online
Gingrich presses the right buttons
24 January 2012
Australian Financial Review
Tom Switzer says Newt Gingrich’s astounding political comeback is largely due to his ability to spell out a populist message while doling out the ideological red meat to the conservative faithful. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
A lifetime of politics, shared with a daughter
22 January 2012
The Weekend Australian
With significant references to the history of Australia-US relations, Tom Switzer reviews Letters To My Daughter by Sir Robert Menzies and Heather Henderson. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Gingrich defends his personal life in South Carolina
20 January 2012
Sky News
Newt Gingrich has hit back at the moderator of a televised debate for the remaining nominees for the Republican presidential candidature after he asked a question about Gingrich's personal life. Tom Switzer discusses it's impact, Gingrich's chances in South Carolina and his predicitions for the primary season. Watch Online
Politics of 2012 election reflect America's cultural crisis: expert
17 January 2012
ABC Local Radio Sydney
Tom Switzer discusses the politics of the 2012 US presidential election with Philip Clark, noting that the Republican nomination race is failing to produce a strong contender to President Obama who is himself vulnerable. Switzer adds the uncertain political climate is symptomatic of a "cultural crisis" being felt across America. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Paul is a prophet deserving honour in warning on America's limits
17 January 2012
The Sydney Morning Herald
Tom Switzer says Ron Paul's most endearing quality is that he has sincere beliefs - support for social tolerance, free-market capitalism and a healthy scepticism towards foreign military adventurism - and he is not afraid to yell them out. He adds that this sets him apart from the pack in this age of focus groups and media spin.
Read article
US-China implications of Taiwan election result
16 January 2012
ABC TV News Breakfast
Tom Switzer says the re-election of Taiwanese President Ma Yingjeou will assist efforts to maintain peaceful relations between Taiwan and Mainland China. He adds that the United States has for a number of decades watched this relationship closely and continues to be a potential 'hot button' for regional tensions. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Watch Online
Conservative voters looking for best leader for the economy
11 January 2012
Sky News Business Channel
Featuring in this panel discussion is Tom Switzer who says Republican voters want to see a leader who can create growth while restraining and reforming government spending. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Conservative disunity helps Romney stay on top
11 January 2012
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer tells Kim Landers that the failure of conservative Republicans to rally around a credible alternative to Mitt Romney is most likely going to result in a Romeny versus Obama battle for the White House this year. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
'Rank and file' support remains elusive for frontrunner
11 January 2012
ABC TV News Breakfast
Tom Switzer says that despite being victorious in New Hampshire, Mitt Romney will be uneasy with the lack of enthusiasm amongst many "rank and file" Republican voters. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Republicans need to consider two different races this year
9 January 2012
ABC Local Radio Sydney
Tom Switzer says that to make it to the White House this year's Republican presidential candidates need to first win over enough conservatives to gain their party's nomination and then turnaround and win over the more liberal-minded swing voters to defeat Barack Obama.
Listen Online
Republican candidates discussed
9 January 2012
ABC TV The Drum
Featuring in this panel discussion is Tom Switzer who says that Mitt Romney's best hope of becoming president will be the backlash vote against Obama by swing voters. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Romney's weaknesses
5 January 2012
Melbourne Talk Radio
Tom Switzer points out the elements of Mitt Romney's political persona that have seen many in the Republican Party feel lukewarm about his candidacy. Also discussed is the success of both Rick Santorum and Ron Paul in the Iowa Caucuses. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Obama still on the ropes
3 January 2012
The Age
Despite the current lack of a convincing Republican presidential candidate, Tom Switzer argues that President Obama's prospects of re-election are perilous. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
The 'indispensable country' struggles to hold its place
28 December 2011
The Sydney Morning Herald
Reflecting on America's place in the world at the end of two decades defined by the end of the Cold War in 1991 and the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001, Tom Switzer says the US's famous capacity to rebound from adversity is going to be put to a severe test in the coming ten years. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
US election to dominate 2012 landscape
15 December 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Tom Switzer discusses with Sen Lam the stand-out developments for the United States over the past 12 months, and explores the key themes likely to dominate the 2012 election year. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Newt: the last best hope for conservatives
6 December 2011
The Drum (ABC Online)
Tom Switzer outlines four reasons why Newt Gingrich could be the Republican nominee for President in 2012. Further to this, Switzer argues history is littered with successful comebacks by politicians who had been all but written off by the mainstream. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Gingrich the conservatives' choice
5 December 2011
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer explains to Kim Landers why he thinks Newt Gingrich is the person most likely to be the conservative "anyone but Romney" candidate going into the crucial primary season of the Republican nomination race for the 2012 presidential election. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
High stakes race for US Republican candidacy
1 December 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Sen Lam, Tom Switzer discusses the "anyone but Romney" factor in the race for the 2012 Republican party presidential nomination and the unexpected rise of Newt Gingrich to potentially be the person that takes on Barack Obama. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Should Australia pull its troops out of Afghanistan?
26 November 2011
The Sydney Morning Herald
The US Studies Centre's Tom Switzer features in this survey of experts asked about whether Australia should withdraw its forces from Afghanistan. Read article
Withdrawal from Afghanistan would not hurt our US ties
24 November 2011
The Age
Tom Switzer says that if the Obama visit is any indication, one is left with the impression that Australian and US political leaders increasingly find it harder to justify a war that involves more blood and treasure and no promise of a happy ending. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Gingrich on the rise
23 November 2011
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer says the most recent Republican debate shows Newt Gingrich firming as the main contender to challenge the preeminent Mitt Romney. Also discussed is the importance of America's budget problems to the 2012 presidential election. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
A sudden rush for the exit?
20 November 2011
The Sun-Herald
Featuring in this article by Paul Daley is Tom Switzer, who discusses the US-Australian allaince in the context of the war in Afghanistan. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
President speaks to Parliament
17 November 2011
Sky News Agenda
Tom Switzer features in this expert panel discussion examining US President Barack Obama's speech to the Australian Parliament. Switzer says it was remarkable that the war in Afghanistan barely rated a mention. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
A note of scepticism about the Obama visit
17 November 2011
The Drum (ABC Online)
Tom Switzer argues the US-Australian alliance would be too strong to be jeopardised by a withdrawal of Australian forces ahead of the current timetable. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Obama heralds new Asia-Pacific era
17 November 2011
Channel Nine News
Tom Switzer provides analysis of US President Barack Obama's speech to the Australian parliament. He says... Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Major speech by Barack Obama
17 November 2011
Channel Nine News
Tom Switzer provides analysis of US President Barack Obama's speech to the Australian parliament. He says... Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
US-Australia relations continue in 21st century
17 November 2011
The Today Show on Channel Nine
On the occasion of Barack Obama's speech to the Australian parliament, Tom Switzer places the US-Australia alliance in context and says disagreements and competing pressures have always been a part of the relationship. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Watch Online
Australia manages US, China, India relations
16 November 2011
The Today Show on Channel Nine
In this interview with Karl Stefanovic, Tom Switzer discusses the potential threat of China having means on Australian soil to run surveillance. Switzer also discusses the challenge Australia faces in managing relations with America, China and now India following the proposed change in stance on sales of uranium to the sub-continent. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Can Australia ride 'two horses at once'?
15 November 2011
TVNZ (New Zealand)
The US Studies Centre's Professor Geoffrey Garrett, Dr James Curran and Tom Switzer feature in this report about the dynamics of Australia's relationships with China and the United States.
Read article
President in town to beef up presence in region
14 November 2011
Channel Ten Morning News
Tom Switzer tells Ron Wilson that the US President's visit is about acknowledging the longevity of the US-Australia alliance on its 60th anniversary as well as to announce an increased focus by the United States on the Asia-Pacific region. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Fullilove, Switzer discuss Australia-US relations
14 November 2011
7:30 - ABC TV
Michael Fullilove from the Lowy Institute and Tom Switzer from the United States Studies Centre discuss Australia's diplomatic relationship with the US ahead of president Barack Obama's visit to Australia.
Obama to visit Australia
14 November 2011
SBS World News Australia
Professor Geoffrey Garrett and Tom Switzer feature in this report on the importance of Asia and Australia to Barack Obama's foreign policy objectives. Geoffrey Garrett is chief executive and Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Media briefing about Obama visit
14 November 2011
Australia's Public Affairs Channel
Professor Geoffrey Garrett leads this media briefing about US President Barack Obama's impending visit to Australia. Featuring in the discussion is an analysis of what the Obama visit to the Asia-Pacific region means as well as a particular focus on the significance of the US-Australian alliance. Listen Online
Gaddafi downfall victory for US policy of 'leading from behind'
3 November 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Tom Switzer discusses US President Barack Obama's so called "leading from behind" policy toward Libya and makes a comparison with America's tactic of invading Iraq in 2003. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
In Defense of 'Leading From Behind'
22 October 2011
The International Herald Tribune and New York Times online
Tom Switzer says however controversial the language, the message of “leading from behind” might not be so unappealing if it helps encourage a sense of limits at a time when the American people are neither willing nor able to pay for a new American Century. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Unclear agenda could lead to 'Occupy' protests' downfall: analyst
20 October 2011
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Liam Cochrane, Tom Switzer assesses the politics surrounding the Occupy Wall Street movement, saying the vagueness of what the protests are calling for may make it less successful. He also discusses the reaction to the protests by US President Barack Obama and how they might impact on the 2012 presidential election.
Republican contenders
6 October 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview with Kim Landers, Tom Switzer assesses the front-running candidates for the Republican presidential nomination after Sarah Palin announced she won't be running in 2012. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Sarah Palin declares she won't run for President
6 October 2011
Sky News PM Agenda
Tom Switzer discusses with David Speers the political implications of the announcement by Sarah Palin that she won't be running for President in 2012. Switzer says it is too early to know which way the "swing states" will vote in twelve months' time. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch online
US politicians push of 'trade war' with China
6 October 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Liam Cochrane, Tom Switzer discusses the contentious issue in Washington D.C. about the valuation of the Chinese Yuan and its impact on US-China trade. He then goes on to discuss two big pull-outs from the Republican presidential nomination race: Sarah Palin and Chris Christie. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Obama's Fair Deal
12 September 2011
CBS Interactive Business Network - Australian Edition
Tom Switzer suggests US President Barack Obama's proposal of the $447 billion American Jobs Act is really a piece of political manoeuvring, saying Obama is placing himself in a position to make the 2012 election a referendum on a "do nothing" congress. He will be able to say, "at least I tried!". Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Listen online
Restoring the balance
11 September 2011
Triple J
Tom Switzer talks about the 9/11 attacks, the war on Iraq and the last decade of political history. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Listen online
ANZUS alliance: myth or reality?
9 September 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia Program
Tom Switzer discusses last week's 60th anniversary of the US-Australia alliance, which remains the centrepiece of Australian foreign policy. He says the ANZUS alliance will ultimately endure because of Australia's need for "a great and powerful friend", as stated by former Australian prime minister Sir Robert Menzies. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Listen online
US Economy: Barack Obama's speech
9 September 2011
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer discusses high unemployment rates in the US and President Barack Obama's speech. He adds that Obama's approval rating is low and most Americans think the country is heading in the wrong direction. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre. Watch online
Sixty years on: debunking ANZUS myths
1 September 2011
The Drum (ABC online)
Tom Switzer discusses the sixtieth anniversary of the signing of the ANZUS Treaty. He says the anniversary is worth commemorating as a seminal moment that continues to shape Australian defence and foreign policy for the better. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Read article
The 60th Anniversary of the ANZUS treaty
1 September 2011
ABC News Radio
Tom Switzer looks back on the 60th Anniversary of the ANZUS treaty and the relationship between Australia and the United States. He talks about the myths that cloud the alliance. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the United States Studies Centre. Listen Online
High school debaters tackle bin Laden issue at University Open Day
31 August 2011
Sharp-witted debaters from Penrith Selective High School went head to head with North Sydney Girls’ debating team to decide whether “the killing of Osama bin Laden has made the world a safer place”. The inaugural competition, Debate the Future of America, was organised by the United States Studies Centre as part of the University of Sydney’s Open Day at the weekend. Read more
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
Switzer, Aly and Fraser on the Arab Spring
22 August 2011
ABC 702 Sydney
On the "Monday Political Forum" Tom Switzer, Waleed Aly and Andrew Fraser talk about whether stable democracies can be built in Egypt and Libya following the news that Libyan rebels have taken Tripoli. Listen online
Nixon watershed rings bells today
15 August 2011
The Australian
Tom Switzer marks the 40th anniversary of the end of the Bretton Woods monetary system by discussing the significance to the world economy of Richard Nixon's decision to move away from the Gold Standard. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Credit downgrade a blow to American prestige
11 August 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Bill Bainbridge, Tom Switzer provides some perspective on the current troubles facing the US economy by looking at the 1970s period of "stagflation" where Richard Nixon aggresively tackled the problem with currency reform. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
US debt deal passed by a divided House
2 August 2011
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
Tom Switzer discusses the likely fallout for congressional leaders from both parties as many people in their electorates oppose the deal done in Washington DC. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Shrewd deal but not everyone happy
1 August 2011
702 ABC Sydney
Tom Switzer tells Richard Glover that despite the political deadlock that brought America to the brink of defaulting on its debt being resolved, there are plenty of people on each side of the partisan divide with major problems over the compromise. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Deadlock as US debt ceiling deadline looms
28 July 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview Tom Switzer explains the ideological differences that have caused the current deadlock over America's debt situation. Switzer also explains the "splintering" within the Republicans in congress over how the debt ceiling crisis should be resolved. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Kissinger's-eye view of China will appeal to cool heads
23 July 2011
The Australian
Tom Switzer says in this book review that some writings derive significance not only from what they say but who says it. Such is the case with a new book by Henry Kissinger. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Carbon pricing debate intensifies
14 July 2011
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
Tom Switzer tells Cameron Wilson that Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard's stance on climate change pre-and-post last year's election resembles George H.W. Bush's u-turn on "no new taxes" twenty years ago. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Climate change action on the backburner in America
11 July 2011
Radio 2GB Sydney
In this interview with Ray Hadley, Tom Switzer explains the great contrast in the political climate between Australia and America on the issue of climate change. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen online
The Importance of Nixon for Today's GOP
7 July 2011
The National Interest
Jacob Heilbrunn argues the Republican Party should take more notice of Richard Nixon's foreign policy legacy, citing Tom Switzer's recent opinion piece in the New York Times about Nixon and America's place in the world. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
The world today, foretold by Nixon
6 July 2011
The New York Times
In an address to media executives in Kansas City forty years ago, US president Richard Nixon predicted the end of US global predominance. Tom Switzer writes that, although Nixon's prediction was premature, he did recognize the limits to the US role as world policeman and this has become even more evident in recent times. Read article
Opening door to an outlaw
6 July 2011
The Age
Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam and US President Richard Nixon's rapprochement with ''Red China'' forty years ago proved to be brave, inspired diplomacy, writes Tom Switzer. Read article
40 years since China's diplomatic isolation was ended
30 June 2011
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
The significance of US and Australian relations with China is one of the major stories of our time. In this interview Tom Switzer discusses the beginning point of these diplomatic relations on the 40th anniversary of Gough Whitlam's visit to China in 1971 ahead of Richard Nixon's visit the following year. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
The world is Rudd's stage, but it's a pity about the region
23 June 2011
The Australian
Tom Switzer says Kevin Rudd is among the most well-travelled foreign ministers in recent memory, seeking inclusion in matters such as the Libyan intervention even though Australia has no military commitment there. Switzer argues there are drawbacks in this strategy for Australia's regional engagement in Southeast Asia, which is ever-growing in significance for both the US and Australia. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Hard line
20 June 2011
American Review
Tom Switzer reviews Colin Dueck's Hard Line: The Republican Party and US Foreign Policy Since World War II, arguing the book is an impressive account of the history of Republican and conservative foreign policy thinking over the past 60 years. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Some US states backtracking on carbon price
9 June 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
The Australian Government has this week denied it's moving ahead of the rest of the world by putting a price on carbon. So where is the rest of the world at, when it come to carbon pricing and emmissions trading schemes? Liam Cochrane of ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia takes stock of the United States position, with regular guest, Tom Switzer. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Listen Online
Time to use the escape hatch in Afghanistan
27 May 2011
The Drum (ABC online)
Tom Switzer says we've been at war in Afghanistan since 2001, and like America and Britain today, we are out of patience, political rationale and public support. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
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Kissinger reveals evolution of US-China relations
20 May 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
Following the release of Henry Kissinger's new book On China, Cold War expert Tom Switzer discusses US-China relations during Henry Kissinger's posting as Richard Nixon's Secretary of State. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
2012 election race and climate change politics
17 May 2011
The Drum on ABC News 24
Featuring in this panel discussion are John Barron and Tom Switzer, who discuss the recent Republican pull-outs from the 2012 presidential election race as well as the politics of climate change denial. John Barron and Tom Switzer are research associates at the US Studies Centre. Watch online
Shades of 1992 haunt Obama
13 May 2011
The Australian
Citing the defeat of George H.W. Bush by Bill Clinton in 1992 so soon after Bush's foreign policy success in the Gulf War, Tom Switzer argues it is far too soon to be calling an Obama victory in 2012 because of the Bin Laden killing. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
China-US talks overshadowed by trade surplus
11 May 2011
ABC Radio Australia Asia Pacific
Climate change, human rights and the value of the Chinese currency have once again dominated high level talks between the world's two dominant economies in Washington. In this report US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer says Democrats on Capitol Hill see climate change and human rights as important criteria for a close relationship between China and the US.
Listen online
Obama's popularity boost discussed
5 May 2011
ABC Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Liam Cochrane, Tom Switzer argues it is much too soon to be calling Obama's victory in the 2012 presidential election following the Bin Laden killing. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Good news in tough times
2 May 2011
702 ABC Sydney
Speaking with Robbie Buck, Tom Switzer provides the political and economic context facing Barack Obama and America and says that both president and public are relieved for some good news in the form of Osama Bin Laden's death. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
War On Terror goes on
2 May 2011
2GB Radio Sydney
Tom Switzer says by eliminating Osama Bin Laden the United States has achieved a much needed boost of morale in the War on Terror. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
The impact of Bin Laden's death
2 May 2011
Trading Day, Sky News
Tom Switzer says that the death of Osama Bin Laden is a great symbolic movement for Americans but despite this success the US should not downplay the threat of potential revenge attacks from a fractured Al-Qaeda. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
President with a lot on his plate
28 April 2011
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer says in this interview that opinion is divided over whether Barack Obama's release of his birth certificate has been a wise move to head-off Donald Trump's "birther" conspiracy. Meanwhile Switzer argues that Trump could splinter the Republican vote to the detriment of whoever is the main challenger to the sitting president in 2012. Also discussed is the recent reshuffle of US cabinet defence officials.
Watch Online
Donald Trump: Will he or won't he run?
20 April 2011
Radio Australia Connect Asia
In this interview with Cameron Wilson, Tom Switzer discusses the likelihood of Donald Trump making a serious bid for the presidency in 2012. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Republican contenders yet to show their hand
18 April 2011
ABC News 24
In this interview Tom Switzer argues that we are still some months away from knowing who the serious contenders are for the Republican nomination for the 2012 presidential election. Switzer also appraises Donald Trump's chances and how the Tea Party movement is affecting the Republican party. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Climate change action stagnates
18 April 2011
1377 MTR Radio Melbourne
In this discussion of the state of pricing carbon in the United States and Australia, Tom Switzer argues that the world's big carbon emitting nations are far from instituting any kind of carbon pricing mechanism. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Australia in the cold on global warming
18 April 2011
The Drum (ABC online)
Given that China and the US show no signs of embracing an economy-wide cap and trade scheme, Tom Switzer argues the Gillard Government's carbon price will remain a tax that imposes unfair burdens on many of Australia's trade exposed industries. Furthermore, he adds, it would amount to economic pain for no environmental gain. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
America criticised over Libya situation
18 March 2011
702 ABC Sydney
In this interview with Richard Glover, Tom Switzer says criticism of the Obama administration over "dragging its feet" on the situation in Libya fails to appreciate the constraints currently influencing US foreign policy in the Middle East. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Listen Online
Politics & Language: Political Abuse and the Web
15 March 2011
Sydney Papers
Tom Switzer says a regrettable by-product of today's media, especially on the internet, has been its frequent lack of decency and respect but the late US political reporter David Broder sets the right example for journalists. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Australia's Carbon Warning for Obama
11 March 2011
Wall Street Journal
Tom Switzer says Labor's recent experience in Australia indicates President Obama could face a voter backlash if he seeks to put a price on carbon, which is something he campaigned about in 2008 but has not yet delivered on. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
It's deluded to think we're the only apple of America's eye
9 March 2011
The Age
Tom Switzer says Prime Minister Julia Gillard needs to keep a steady eye on reality amid the thrill of Washington. Gillard will address a joint session of Congress, following in the footsteps of only three Australian prime ministers - Robert Menzies in 1952, Bob Hawke in 1988 and John Howard in 2002. Read Article
US-Australia relations on the agenda
8 March 2011
ABC News 24
Tom Switzer says the war in Afghanistan is a pressing issue for both Julia Gillard and Barack Obama as they meet in Washington, however the public are still in the dark about a timeframe for troop withdrawal. Also discussed is the issue of pricing carbon in both countries. Tom Switzer is a research associate with the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Are we all neo-cons now?
14 February 2011
ABC The Drum Unleashed
Tom Switzer points out why the transition from dictatorship to a genuine democracy in Egypt will be more difficult than many expect. He says that Egypt lacks the civic and political culture and institutions that can sustain a western-style democracy. Read Article
Obama shows caution over Egypt
11 February 2011
ABC NewsRadio
US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer comments on the strategic alliance between the United States and Egypt as riots continue in Cairo. Protestors are demanding that President Mubarak stand down to enable the Arab world's most populous nation to transform into a democracy. Listen Online
Can Obama do a Reagan?
8 February 2011
ABC The Drum Unleashed
The outpouring of affection for Ronald Reagan, who would have celebrated his 100th birthday this weekend, has been fascinating, beyond what one would expect even for one of America's most popular presidents, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Egypt and the Middle East
1 February 2011
The Drum on ABC News 24
Featured in this panel discussion about the civil unrest in Egypt is Tom Switzer who argues that the United States is well-advised to place only conditional support on the current protests against President Mubarak. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
Be careful what you wish for in Egypt
31 January 2011
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Tom Switzer says the current upheaval in Egypt may result in the Middle East becoming more anti-American. Due to this potential, Switzer argues Barack Obama is wise to be moderate in his support for change in Cairo. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
New political landscape
25 January 2011
ABC News 24
The changes brought about in congress after the midterm elections means President Barack Obama must reach out to Republicans with compromises, argues Tom Switzer in this scene setting interview before the State of the Union address. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
US strikes the right balance on China
21 January 2011
The Australian
In the current circumstances America's strategy of playing down its differences with China is wise rather than weak, argue Tom Switzer and Owen Harries. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
The truth about Australia's floods
17 January 2011
Fox News online
Tom Switzer brings the US audience up to speed with both the physical and political situation following the massive flooding in Queensland. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Palin & Co too easy a target for rampage
12 January 2011
The Courier-Mail
Whilst invoking a weapons metaphor on the campaign trail may be provocative, Tom Switzer says both sides of politics use such language. Furthermore, he argues this kind of speech is hardly evidence of incitement to violence. Read article
The roots of American despair
4 January 2011
Quadrant Magazine
Tom Switzer examines the political, social and economic happenings of the past two years and argues that America's famous capacity to rebound from adversity is going to be put to a severe test. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Breaches will breed secrecy
9 December 2010
The Courier-Mail
Tom Switzer says the mass leaking of diplomatic cables can cause real harm to not only security but the principle of transparency itself. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Cancun: Latest Stop for the Great Global Warming Circus
29 November 2010
Fox News Opinion (online)
Tom Switzer says the delegates gathering in Cancun for the latest United Nations climate conference are in a state of severe, almost clinical, denial if they think they will sign a legally binding and genuinely global agreement to slash greenhouse gases. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Stormy weather ahead as Washington's will loses sway
29 November 2010
The Australian
The loss of America's credibility and prestige from the Bush era has continued under Barack Obama, resulting in a reduced ability to lead and persuade other powers, says Tom Switzer. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Korean tensions and diving dollars
24 November 2010
The Drum on ABC News 24
ABC broadcaster and US Studies Centre research associate John Barron hosts this discussion about the alarming events on the Korean peninsula. Featured in this discussion is Centre research associate Tom Switzer, who also considers the positive side of the equation for Australians from the devalued US Dollar. Watch Online
Get real about our 'special relationship'
19 November 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Tom Switzer says minor allies like Australia, however loyal, should not expect inconvenient loyalty from a superpower. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Self-doubt emerges to test US mettle
12 November 2010
The Australian
Tom Switzer says the foul mood of the American electorate toward its political leaders stem from expectations about the US's right to economic prosperity and global leadership that no administration or congress may be able to meet. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
Politics binds US over climate
9 November 2010
The Australian Financial Review
Tom Switzer looks at the grim prospects for any significant US legislation to combat man-made global warming being passed in the foreseeable future. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Tom Switzer on midterm results
7 November 2010
Sky News Sunday Agenda
In this panel discussion, Tom Switzer discusses what the swing away from the Democrats means for the Obama presidency and the United States. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Watch Online
A mandate misintrepreted
4 November 2010
702 ABC Sydney Drive
In this panel discussion with Leigh Sales, Peter Hartcher and Richard Glover, Tom Switzer argues that President Obama has misinterpreted his mandate by being too progressive and interventionist for a largely conservative nation.
Listen Online
Left-liberal lament
4 November 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC Online)
Tom Switzer says no amount of sugar coating can change perceptions of this mid-term election result: it is a forceful repudiation of the legislative agenda of both president Barack Obama and Democrats on Capitol Hill. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
New progressivism didn’t last too long
4 November 2010
The Newcastle Herald
A few years ago, the conventional wisdom held that Kevin Rudd and Barack Obama had transformed the political landscape in Australia and the United States. Tom Switzer looks at where things went wrong for the two leaders. Read Article
Analysis of the US midterm election results
3 November 2010
ABC News 24 The Drum
A panel consisting of Tom Switzer, John Barron and Sue Cato provide analysis of the US midterm elections which has seen a major swing against the Democrats. The Republicans have gained a majority in the House of Representatives but the Democrats have maintained a small majority in the Senate. Watch Online
The rise and rise of the Tea Party
3 November 2010
IPA Review
Tom Switzer writes about what is probably the most discussed yet widely misunderstood political movement of recent times - the Tea Party. Read Article
Republicans on track for a Clayton's win
2 November 2010
The Age
In the midst of near-double-digit unemployment, skyrocketing national debt, home foreclosures and an unpopular war, Tom Switzer says the American public are in a foul mood and overwhelmingly believe the nation is heading in the wrong direction. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre.
Read article
America awaits restoration
31 October 2010
ABC News 24
Following the rally to "Restore Sanity and/or Fear" in Washington DC over the weekend, US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer argues that America is experiencing a cultural crisis for which neither liberals nor conservatives have all the answers.
Watch Online
Gillard is a warmonger
22 October 2010
The Spectator Australia
Citing the growing consensus in America and Britain that the war in Afghanistan is unwinnable, Tom Switzer and Neil Clark say it is time for Prime Minister Gillard to accept reality and start discussing the withdrawal of Australian troops.
Read article
Macbeth Down Under
15 October 2010
The American Interest
US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer shares with an American audience the constant danger that even the most popular leaders in Australian politics face.
Read article
War in Afghanistan: who are we helping?
11 October 2010
ABC The Drum Unleashed
The war in Afghanistan is a major talking point in the US and Britain, but Tom Switzer says in Australia the question of our military commitment to the war is not being properly delibarated. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Global climate agreement not 'inevitable'
16 September 2010
ABC The Drum Unleashed
BHP Billiton chief executive Marius Kloppers has called for the Gillard Government to impose a carbon tax before any global agreement but Tom Switzer says Kloppers, like many climate activists, is naïve to think a genuinely global climate agreement is inevitable. Read Article
Iraq and the collapse of neo-con illusions
1 September 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
Tom Switzer says the Iraq experience has shattered some dangerous neo-conservative illusions that have warped US policy in the post-9/11 era. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
I wonder who’s Kissinger now
1 September 2010
The Australian Literary Review
Tom Switzer reviews two books about American foreign policy during the Cold War and the personalities that shaped it, in particular Henry Kissinger. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read book review
War in Afghanistan: when will the job be done?
30 August 2010
The Drum Unleashed (ABC online)
The war in Afghanistan has become a major talking point in America recently due to the standing down of General McChrystal as well as the Wikileaks controversy. However, Tom Switzer notes that in the Australian election campaign neither leader explained satisfactorily the rationale behind Australia's 1,500-strong troop and personnel presence in Afghanistan. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Down and to the right for Australia
21 August 2010
The Globe and Mail
How should North America characterize Australia in 2010? Tom Switzer says that despite the importance of its alliance with the US, Australians are increasingly focused on the local. And regardless of the winner of this weekend’s tight election contest, Australia will remain a pretty conservative place. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Read article
Climate of emissions trading cools
5 August 2010
The Australian
Tom Switzer says Australia is not alone in failing to put a price on carbon, with the Democrats failing to push legislation through this year in America and many countries faltering on the issue. Tom Switzer is a Research Associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Adaptation the best climate change policy
30 July 2010
ABC The Drum Unleashed
Tom Switzer says that however much there may be a scientific consensus on man-made global warming, the fact remains no policy or global consensus exists. Without these conditions, Switzer argues unilateral action to price carbon would inflict collateral damage on the Australian economy, in terms of higher energy prices, lost jobs and lower growth. Tom Switzer is a Research Associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Like the US, Australia remains a centre-right nation
19 July 2010
The Australian Financial Review
The Australian Prime Minister's conservatism is not genuine warns Tom Switzer. Read Article
Gillard unlikely to woo poll-winning battlers
25 June 2010
The Age
In 1996, Howard wooed the battlers by lifting their aspirations, just as Rudd did in 2007. Tom Switzer says it is unlikely that Gillard can do likewise. Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
What's right?
7 June 2010
The Quarterly Essay
Tom Switzer responds to Waleed Aly's essay "What's Right? The future of conservatives in Australia" from the previous issue of Quarterly Essay. Read Article
Acting from a force of habitat
5 June 2010
The Australian
After Copenhagen's failure, should we just learn to live with the consequences of climate change? Tom Switzer and Clive Hamilton debate. Read Article
Who is Kevin Rudd? No one really knows
10 May 2010
The Age
At the height of the 1956 US presidential election, Adlai Stevenson said of Richard Nixon: ''This is a man of many masks. Who can say they have seen his real face?'' Tom Switzer, research associate at the US Studies Centre, asks if the same thing could be said about Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Read article
World rethinks climate legislation
30 April 2010
Wall Street Journal
US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer says that the climate, politically speaking, has changed dramatically since June when the US House of Representatives narrowly passed a climate cap-and-tax bill. President Obama's decision to make immigration reform a higher priority in the Senate legislative calendar is a recognition of this reality: Cap-and-tax is dead. And not just in Washington either. Read article
Action on climate change shelved
29 April 2010
Research associate at the Centre, Tom Switzer, says Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has more to answer for than President Obama for not delivering on promised climate change legislation.
This week the Prime Minister revealed that he is shelving climate legislation until 2012 at the earliest while in America the chances of anything being passed before this year’s global summit in Mexico City is next to nil after the President fast-tracked immigration law onto the congressional agenda.
In this interview Switzer discusses the main factors that have pushed climate change off legislative agendas in Australia and the US and considers the similarities and differences in the situations facing Prime Minister Rudd and President Obama. Watch Online
Is there a Plan B for the ETS?
27 April 2010
The Drum: Unleashed (ABC online)
Following Kevin Rudd's announcement that he is shelving the ETS legislation until 2012 and the unlikelihood of cap-and-trade legislation being passed in the US this year, Tom Switzer asks what has happened to "the great moral challenge of our time". Tom Switzer is a research associate at the US Studies Centre. Read article
Chance to combat climate change through policy has come and gone
21 April 2010
The Australian
In this article Tom Switzer argues that sweet the rhetoric about combating global warming, the cold reality is this: comprehensive climate legislation, which US senators will unveil next week, is unlikely to pass into law this year. Tom Switzer, a research associate at the US Studies Centre, provides five reasons in support of this opinion. Read article
Obama and Australia
15 April 2010
Sky Agenda PM
Issues of climate change policy, troop numbers in Afghanistan, US-Australia and US-China relations feature in this panel discussion following the interview between Kerry O'Brien of The 7:30 Report and President Barack Obama. US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer appears on the panel. Watch Online
Climate law: what's in it for the US?
12 April 2010
Australian Financial Review
US Studies Centre research associate Tom Switzer asks why the US should unilaterally make carbon cuts that would cause economic pain for no environmental gain. Read Article
The politics of climate change is changing
2 March 2010
The Drum (ABC Online)
Tom Switzer observes how conservatives have stolen the march in the US and Australia regarding the debate about man-made global warming. Read Article
Obama a victim as Americans struggle to accept a lesser role
22 January 2010
The Age
The discontent in the US goes deeper than just an objection to policies, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
From containment to catastrophe
16 January 2010
The Sydney Morning Herald
Tom Switzer reviews War of Necessity, War of Choice: A Memoir of Two Iraq Wars by Richard Haass, a former adviser to the Bush presidencies who writes about the successes and failings of America's policy on Iraq. Read Article
The climate is changing
12 January 2010
The Wall Street Journal
The rise of Tony Abbott is part of a worldwide reconsideration of the costs of cap-and-trade, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Unlikely bedfellows
8 January 2010
The Spectator
Tom Switzer reviews The March of Patriots: The Struggle for Modern Australia, the latest book by Editor-at-large of The Australian Paul Kelly. Read Review
Don't expect too much down Mexico way
1 January 2010
The Australian
Without the leadership of the US the prospects of negotiating a binding global treaty to reduce carbon emissions at this year's Climate Change Conference in Mexico City are virtually zero, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Copenhagen climate talks
23 December 2009
The New York Times
In this letter to the Editor, Tom Switzer writes that the evidence indicates that President Obama won't be able to lead the world to a post-Copenhagen deal on climate change. Read Letter
A chance to win back Howard battlers
2 December 2009
The Australian Financial Review
By no longer being carbon copies of Labor, the Liberals can win back Middle Australia, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Switzer addresses Australian Navy, Army and Airforce Reserves
14 November 2009
US Studies Centre Research Associate, Tom Switzer, spoke to Australian Navy, Army and Airforce Reserves at the Waterhen Base auditorium about the Afghanistan conflict. Read Speech
How Rudd is undoing the Aussie miracle
11 November 2009
Far Eastern Economic Review
Australia is now the envy of the industrialised world, having recorded faster growth than the United States this decade, even as it provided universal health care and other social services that the US does not. Tom Switzer writes that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is in the process of repudiating the free-market approach that has produced Australia's miracle economy and is rolling back the reform agenda of the last three decades. Read Article
Carcass of US war policy
2 November 2009
The Australian Financial Review
The US is facing the historical dictum that Afghanistan is the ‘graveyard of empires’, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Obama seeks to silence a critic
26 October 2009
The Australian
The Obama administration has declared war on Rupert Murdoch's popular cable channel, Fox News, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Obama declares war on Fox
26 October 2009
Sky News Playing Politics
Tom Switzer and Eamonn Fitzpatrick discuss the stance taken by the Whitehouse to exclude the Fox network from press conferences. Watch Online
The media bombards us with ETS coverage. So why are we still in the dark?
24 October 2009
The Spectator Australia
Australia's disproportionately intensive analysis of the emissions trading debate is driven by politics, not policy, argues Tom Switzer. Read Article
Washington's ETS progress
21 October 2009
ABC Unleashed
As Australia's ETS debate continues, it is important to keep a close watch over Washington's progress. Tom Switzer tells us why. Read Article
Forecast against plain sailing
20 October 2009
The Australian
In the US, climate change is not a pressing issue covered extensively by the media and that is bad news for us, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Palin is not the new Pauline
22 July 2009
The Spectator
Neither right-wing populist represents the future of Australia or America, suggests Tom Switzer. Read Article
Is Palin manoeuvring to make a run for the White House?
13 July 2009
The Courier Mail
The 'Hockey Mom' Governor of Alaska's decision to quit office has raised more questions than it answers, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Right in the grip of a growing malaise
11 July 2009
The Australian Financial Review
Tom Switzer looks at the Liberals in Australia and Republicans in the US, and notes striking similarities which may explain why the conservative movement is in dire straits on both sides of the Pacific. Read Article
Scientific sceptics are turning up the heat
4 July 2009
The Spectator Australia
The political climate is changing on global warming and emissions trading, argues Tom Switzer. Read Article
Obama's response to the Iranian crisis
22 June 2009
ABC Radio National Australia Talks
Anthony Fennel's coverage on Iran includes an interview with Tom Switzer on Obama's response to the Iranian crisis. Listen online
Greenhouse gas battle is slowly losing steam
18 June 2009
Australian Financial Review
It's not just the climate that changes . . . legislation to implement an emissions trading scheme is likely to collapse in both Canberra and Washington, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Human rights on the up since Tiananmen
10 June 2009
The Newcastle Herald
Engagement with China has been the best policy, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
All the way with the USA
10 June 2009
The Spectator
Malcolm Turnbull is right to make an emissions trading scheme conditional on American action, says Tom Switzer. Read Article
Tom Switzer analyses Barack Obama's speech in Cairo
4 June 2009
Sky News
Tom Switzer believes Barack Obama delivered a great speech in Cairo on American foreign policy in the Middle East. Watch Online
The Surge to Success: A Review of Bob Woodward’s The War Within
1 June 2009
Quadrant
Tom Switzer reviews The War Within: A Secret White House History 2006?2008, by Bob Woodward. Read Article
Popularity doesn't equal power
28 May 2009
The Australian Financial Review
The United States under Barack Obama is still overreaching diplomatically, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Kim Beazley and Tom Switzer discuss the Emissions Trading Scheme
27 May 2009
Sky News Playing Politics
Former Deputy Prime Minister Kim Beazley and the US Studies Centre's Tom Switzer discuss the Emissions Trading Scheme and the North Korean nuclear tests. Watch Online
Aussie jitters
22 May 2009
The Wall Street Journal Asia
Tom Switzer says public unease about globalization is hardly an Australian peculiarity, but the onus falls on political leaders and policy makers to try to bridge the divide between elite and public opinion by explaining more clearly the benefits of capital flows.
Read article
Our Priorities Are Wrong
20 May 2009
The Spectator
Australian policymakers should contemplate US withdrawal from Asia but stop panicking about China, says Tom Switzer. Read Article
Bring back the Thatcher revolution
8 May 2009
The Wall Street Journal
Small governments and free markets remain sound economic policies, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
The return of the realists
6 May 2009
The Australian Literary Review
In the latest edition Tom Switzer reviews The Irony of American History, by Reinhold Niebuhr; George Kennan: A Study of Character, by John Lukacs; and Journals 1952-2000, by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. Read Article
Obama's first 100 days
30 April 2009
ABC Unleashed
Tom Switzer argues that US foreign policy has not changed as dramatically since January 20 as many commentators allege. Read Article
No thaw in foreign affairs
30 April 2009
Courier Mail
Barack Obama's personal standing has not yet increased American influence on the world, writes Tom Switzer. Read Article
Deepening understanding
13 April 2009
The Australian
Article about the US Studies Centre's appointment of three new commentators: Nina Blackwell, James Morrow and Tom Switzer. Read Article
US Studies Centre expands commentary team
7 April 2009
The United States Studies centre has appointed three new commentators, boosting the ranks of its opinion leaders and experts. They are Nina Blackwell, James Morrow and Tom Switzer. Read Media Release
Great minds don’t agree on everything
25 March 2009
Spectator Magazine
However sweet the rhetoric, the priorities of Obama and Rudd should differ in Afghanistan, warns Tom Switzer. Read Article
Nixon as culture warrior
2 March 2009
Institute of Public Affairs Review
Tom Switzer reviews Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America by Rick Perlstein. Read Article
The fall of a civilisation, or just a ‘torn country’?
4 February 2009
The Spectator
Tom Switzer on Harvard professor Samuel Huntington, who memorably crossed swords with Paul Keating. Read Article
