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Check FAQAbout David
David Smith has been Washington correspondent of The Guardian since October 2015, reporting on the presidential election campaigns of Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and other candidates. He has travelled to the US naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and reports from the White House and State Department in Washington. He was previously Africa correspondent, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he wrote about the 2010 football World Cup, death of Nelson Mandela and murder trial of Oscar Pistorius. He travelled to countries including the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Ivory Coast, Libya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Zambia and Zimbabwe. David studied at the University of Leeds and edited its student newspaper before joining the Daily Express as a graduate trainee in 1997. He moved to The Observer in 2003 and reported from countries including Afghanistan and Iraq. David appears as a commentator on NPR, the BBC, CNN, Sky News and other media and has more than 100,000 followers on Twitter. In 2014 he was runner-up in the UK's Frontline Club Awards and shortlisted for the Society of Editors foreign reporter of the year, and has been longlisted twice for the One World Media Awards and twice for the Orwell Prize for political writing.
English
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Bank of England's Struggle with Inflation and Credibility
The Bank of England is facing criticism for its inability to control inflation, which has led to societal and economic consequences, including a mortgage crisis and strikes. Despite the Federal Reserve pausing rate hikes, the Bank is pressured to continue raising interest rates amidst high wage growth and a tight labor market. Governor Andrew Bailey has acknowledged the Bank's forecasting failures and an external review is underway. The Bank's credibility is at stake, with discussions about returning interest rate control to politicians and implementing price controls.
A slowing jobs market will be good news for the Bank of England
Upcoming figures on the United Kingdom's monthly gross domestic product will be pivotal for the government ahead of May's local elections. A slight increase is expected, which could allow ministers to claim economic improvement. A lack of growth might lead to attributing the stagnation to external factors such as the weather.
Industry is looking up, but don’t celebrate too much just yet
A recent survey indicated positive developments in the UK manufacturing sector, with the purchasing managers’ index (PMI) for UK manufacturing, published by S&P Global, rising above the key 50 level for the first time since July 2022, signaling growth. However, the sector still lags behind the UK services sector, which posted a PMI of 53.1.
Housing crisis requires long-term solutions, not soundbites
The article discusses the UK's housing crisis as a long-term issue that predates the current Conservative government, emphasizing the need for lasting solutions rather than short-term rhetoric. It suggests reforms to the planning system to prevent local objections from delaying necessary housing and calls for developers to be compelled to build promptly after receiving permission. The article also advocates for the enforcement of developer agreements, particularly regarding the construction of social housing and services.
What does recession mean for the UK? The economy in five charts
The UK entered a technical recession in the second half of the previous year, with GDP falling by 0.3% in the fourth quarter after a 0.1% decline in the third. The article suggests that GDP per capita is a more relevant measure for individuals, which has also been declining, with a 0.6% fall in the last quarter of the year following a 0.4% decrease in the third quarter.
Will British shoppers ever be big spenders again?
The UK economy, traditionally reliant on consumer spending, is facing a change in narrative. While exports and investment are still necessary for healthier growth, the economy could benefit from an increase in consumer spending, which accounts for about 60% of GDP. The concern over household debt, which peaked at 156% of income in 2008, has subsided as it fell to 126%.
Will the UK economy recover in 2024 or is No 10 in dreamland?
A speculative vision for the UK economy in 2024 includes a sharp fall in inflation to 2 percent, leading to increased real incomes, strong consumer spending growth, and the Bank of England reconsidering its inflation target expectations.
What the spring budget could mean for your finances and the UK election
Jeremy Hunt has sparked speculation with the announcement of his spring budget on March 6, raising questions about the timing of the UK general election and potential tax cuts. Historical precedents of spring budgets are noted, with comparisons to past chancellors, amidst concerns about the current state of the economy.
Newport, we have a problem: how much can we trust ONS figures?
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has released limited labor market data this week, including information on pay, which is outstripping inflation but showing signs of deceleration, and job vacancies, which have fallen below one million, decreasing by over 250,000 in the past year. However, the release lacked comprehensive employment data, which is traditionally the focal point of these releases.
Labour’s age-old question: how to pay for it all?
Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves of the Labour Party have been performing well in polls and won the economic debate during the party conference season, while the Conservative Party, with Rishi Sunak cancelling the northern leg of HS2 and Jeremy Hunt's critique of Reeves' speech, faced challenges.
When forecasts are too optimistic, they do nothing to promote growth
As the party conference season concludes, a common theme among UK politicians is the pursuit of economic growth. Rachel Reeves of Labour emphasized growth as the party's economic mission, while Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt of the Conservatives and Sir Ed Davey of the Liberal Democrats also highlighted the need for growth in their respective speeches.
Delaying energy efficiency was a win for bad landlords
Rishi Sunak's recent reversal on the UK's net-zero strategy included scrapping proposals to require private residential landlords to upgrade their properties to an energy performance certificate rating of C. Although the plans were still under consultation, some landlords had preemptively taken steps to comply, leading to frustration and sarcastic remarks from tenants on social media. The article suggests that proactive landlords should be supported, while the policy U-turn benefits those who delay making improvements.
Tax reform makes sense whoever is in No 11, but don’t hold your breath
The next UK general election is anticipated to be more than a year away, with political parties already establishing their stances. Jeremy Hunt, facing pressure from his party, had to defend against early calls for tax cuts following recent public finance figures. Meanwhile, Labour's Rachel Reeves stated her party would not introduce a wealth tax, believing prosperity does not stem from taxation. Both Hunt and Reeves, who reportedly share mutual respect, are pressured to take actions they deem unwise.
Retail losers feel like more than just the usual casualties of capitalism
Wilko, a homeware store chain, is facing the risk of vanishing from UK high streets, with ongoing sale negotiations that may result in a partial or complete rescue. The potential closure threatens the jobs of 12,500 workers and impacts suppliers, while also contributing to a broader sense of loss among consumers who recall past retail failures like Woolworths and have personal connections to brands such as Laura Ashley.
Zero-hours deals do a great job in luring people back to flexible work
The debate over zero-hours contracts highlights the divide between unions and employers. Unions, such as the Trades Union Congress, criticize these contracts for offering one-sided flexibility favoring employers, while the Irish government's legislation to restrict them was hailed as a victory for low-paid and insecure workers. Conversely, employers and organizations like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development view zero-hours contracts as beneficial for flexibility in the labor market.
Tax rises won’t cure inflation but a little patience from the Bank might
The Bank of England has raised interest rates significantly over the past 18 months to combat inflation, yet the core inflation rate remains above 7 percent. The impact of this monetary tightening is uneven, affecting mainly owner-occupiers with mortgages upon remortgaging and private renters due to increased borrowing costs for landlords. The effectiveness of these measures is in question as wage pressure builds.
Uncertainty at Westminster can only hinder business investment
The UK's business investment levels are low compared to other G7 countries, a concern highlighted by former Chancellor Rishi Sunak. Despite the challenges of Brexit and the pandemic, Sunak increased the corporation tax from 19 to 25 percent in April, moving away from the UK's previous position of having the lowest corporation tax rate in the G20.
Don’t be fooled by talk of tax cuts – the tax burden is actually going up
The article reflects on a past conversation with George Osborne, then shadow chancellor, about the Conservative Party's approach to tax cuts and fiscal discipline. It suggests that despite talks of tax cuts, the tax burden is on the rise, and it contextualizes this within historical events such as the financial crisis, Brexit, and the pandemic.
Interest rates are rising but the real question is how soon they’ll be cut
The Bank of England is expected to raise the UK interest rate from 4.25 to 4.5 percent, following recent increases by the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. This move deviates from the previously anticipated cap of 4 percent due to unfavorable inflation data and economic activity. City economists are divided on whether this will be the final increase or if additional hikes are forthcoming.
The battle won’t be over until food inflation slumps
Food inflation in the UK has risen by 18.3% in February compared to the previous year, a rate that equals the cumulative increase over the prior 11 years and 4 months, highlighting the exceptional scale of current food price inflation.
Interest rates are painful but people are less indebted than in the past
The Bank of England's interest rate is currently at 4%, the highest in over 14 years, which is a significant increase from its position 14 months prior. Despite the rise, the overall impact on households is not as severe as in the past due to lower levels of indebtedness. Catherine Mann of the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee hinted at the possibility of further rate increases.
NASCAR Free Agent Profile: Despite Family Ties, Austin Dillon Brings Value To Richard Childress Racing
Austin Dillon, a NASCAR driver for Richard Childress Racing (RCR), is evaluated for his on-track production and value to the team. Despite not qualifying for this season's playoffs, Dillon's statistical strengths, such as crash avoidance and efficient long-run movement, suggest he is a capable driver. His open market value is estimated at $2.156 million per season, with a projected worth of $2.018 million for 2022. Dillon's relationship with RCR, where his grandfather is the namesake, is seen as beneficial, allowing the team financial flexibility to support rising talent like Tyler Reddick. Dillon's presence at RCR is expected to continue, contributing to the team's competitive growth.
NASCAR Free Agent Profile: Efficient Passer Ryan Preece Continues To Enhance Value
Ryan Preece, a NASCAR driver for JTG Daugherty Racing, is recognized for his efficient passing and is seen as a beacon of hope for Northeast racers. Despite JTG Daugherty's lack of speed and financial stability, Preece's open market value has increased significantly, with a projected worth of $1.316 million for the 2022 season. His strengths include surplus passing, position retention on restarts, and crash avoidance. Likely suitors for Preece include JTG Daugherty Racing, Richard Childress Racing, and Stewart-Haas Racing, with JTG Daugherty being the most realistic option due to existing sponsorship from The Kroger Company.
NASCAR Free Agent Profile: There’s No Clear Market For 43-Year-Old Ryan Newman
Ryan Newman, a NASCAR driver for Roush Fenway Racing, faces an uncertain future as a free agent due to his declining on-track performance and high crash rate. His open market value has decreased significantly, and with Brad Keselowski replacing him at Roush Fenway, Newman's prospects for a full-time Cup Series role are slim. A part-time role was considered but is unlikely without sponsorship. The SRX Series, owned by Tony Stewart, may offer Newman a competitive outlet that aligns with his experience and market value.
Previewing The 12 Hours Of Sebring: 3 Things To Watch And How To Stream In America
The Mobil1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, part of the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship, is set to begin on March 20, 2021. NBC Sports will provide over 12 hours of coverage across its platforms. The article discusses key participants and storylines, including Filipe Albuquerque's victory at the Rolex 24, Wayne Taylor Racing's success, and the addition of Nick Tandy to Corvette Racing. It also covers the return of the No. 48 Cadillac DPi team with Jimmie Johnson, Simon Pagenaud, and Kamui Kobayashi. The article provides insights into the drivers' experiences and expectations for the upcoming race at Sebring Raceway.
With Unification, STEM And Stars, John Doonan Is On A Mission To Make Sports Car Racing Popular In America
John Doonan, president of IMSA, is working to popularize sports car racing in America through initiatives like the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Despite the pandemic, IMSA successfully conducted a full WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in 2020, resulting in a 21-percent increase in television viewership. Doonan is focusing on education and engagement, leveraging esports and STEM to attract younger fans. The presence of well-known drivers from NASCAR, IndyCar, and Formula One in IMSA races also helps to draw attention and legitimize the sport.
Style Over Substance: Why Similarity, More Than Name Recognition, Is Integral To Endurance Racing Roster Assembly
The article discusses the importance of driver compatibility over name recognition in endurance racing team assembly, highlighting the successful pairing of teammates Felipe Nasr and Pipo Derani at Action Express Racing. It emphasizes the strategic considerations teams make, such as driving style, physical attributes, and handling preferences, to optimize performance and minimize the need for mechanical adjustments. Wayne Taylor's Rolex 24-winning program and Ryan Briscoe's new team Scuderia Corsa are also mentioned, illustrating the careful planning that goes into roster assembly for events like the Rolex 24 At Daytona.
Past His Prime And In The Midst Of A Pandemic, NASCAR’s Kurt Busch Is Oddly Indispensable
Kurt Busch, a 42-year-old NASCAR driver and 2004 series champion, remains a key figure in the sport despite the typical decline in performance drivers face after the age of 39. With a contract extending beyond the current year and a personal sponsor in Monster Energy Drink, Busch has become indispensable to Chip Ganassi Racing, especially after the firing of Kyle Larson. Busch's performance ranks him ninth in the Production in Equal Equipment Rating and he has consistently out-finished his speed ranking. He is aware of the changing economic landscape in NASCAR, with driver salaries dropping due to COVID-19, and anticipates potential one-year deals in the future. Despite the uncertainties, Busch has no immediate plans to retire and expresses interest in racing in different forms beyond NASCAR.
Despite Exile From NASCAR, Kyle Larson Is A Sought-After Free Agent
Kyle Larson, a successful NASCAR driver, was suspended and lost sponsorships after using a racial slur during an online event. Despite this, he has found success in the World of Outlaws and is considered a valuable free agent for a potential return to NASCAR. Teams like Stewart-Haas Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports have shown interest, and Ford's Mark Rushbrook has not denied the possibility of Larson joining a Ford team. Larson's market value has decreased due to the incident, but he remains a talented driver who could be offered a contract with a NASCAR team.
CNN interview about WikiLeaks' impact on the 2016 US presidential election.
Interview on MSNBC about Britain's referendum vote to leave the European Union. Washington, DC, Friday 24 June 2016.
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