A recent event in Melbourne featuring the American podcast Pod Save America drew a crowd of 2,500 Australians, highlighting the nation's ongoing fascination with US politics. Attendees were keen to engage with discussions about American government issues, such as budget shutdowns, facilitated by the show's hosts. This interest reflects a broader sentiment in Australia regarding the importance of American political dynamics and their potential implications on global affairs.

The popularity of the event underscores a significant cultural connection between Australia and the United States, suggesting that many Australians perceive American democracy as intertwined with their own political landscape. The engagement from the audience, who willingly sacrificed their weekend for political commentary from abroad, indicates a deep investment in the state of US democracy and governance.

Analysts from the Australia Institute have noted that this fascination with American politics is not merely superficial but is rooted in a genuine concern over the health of democratic institutions. The enduring interest in US political proceedings among Australians likely influences local political discourse and could have implications for how Australian leaders navigate their own policies in relation to American counterparts.