Jonathan Freedland speaks to Barbara Walter, a former CIA adviser, about her new book about how civil wars start, and what politicians and the public should be doing to prevent another one in the US. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

As the prime minister finally apologises (sort of) for a lockdown party at Downing Street, Heather Stewart and Gaby Hinsliff look what the future holds for Boris Johnson. Plus, Peter Walker, Larry Elliott and Miatta Fahnbulleh discuss the impending cost of living crisis.. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Jonathan Freedland speaks to the House Representative from Maryland about last January’s Capitol riots, leading an impeachment trial against Trump, investigating colleagues and how his own grief influenced his work in 2021. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Rowena Mason and Sonia Sodha look at the problems facing the NHS and schools, as the government lifts some restrictions. Plus, Peter Walker, Jon Henley and Severin Carrell look at how Westminster’s Covid-19 plan differs from the rest of the UK and Europe. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

A note from Jonathan Freedland as we ring in the new year. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod