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A Week in America | 2 November 2026

All eyes are on the US Congressional Elections as voters head to the polls. With Trump’s approval ratings falling, inflation dominating the debate and Democrats tipped to make significant gains, Martin Liptrot examines the key battlegrounds, the latest polling and what could be a defining night in American politics.

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A Week in America | 3 September 2026

As the US and Canada lock horns over tariffs and the names of lakes, Martin Liptrot, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at Downtown in Business is sure he has seen this story somewhere before.

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The First Challenge of the Burnham Premiership

Andy Burnham has had a meteoric week – Leader of Labour, Prime Minister, Opening Number 10 North… But this week may throw up some significant challenges… Martin Liptrot, Downtown’s Director of Strategy and Partnerships looks forward to what the next 5 days may reveal ..

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World Cup Andy

In this week’s blog, Martin Liptrot draws parallels between football and politics, exploring what Andy Burnham’s leadership ambitions can learn from England, Scotland, and the pressures of managing expectations.

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What can Cities Learn from Books?

In this week’s blog, Martin Liptrot explores what cities can learn from the world of books. Reflecting on MIPIM, he highlights the importance of a clear identity, focused messaging and authentic storytelling in helping places stand out and attract investment.

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A Week in America | 1 January 2026

In this week’s blog, Martin reflects on a year dominated by lone actors and fractured trust—and asks whether 2026 could mark a return to collaboration, partnership, and shared purpose.

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A Week in America | 12 December 2025

In this week’s blog, Martin examines the growing gap between America’s economic headlines and how people actually feel. Despite strong GDP figures and soaring markets, households remain squeezed by stubborn prices, rising unemployment, and fragile confidence. As Trump marks his first year back in office, Martin unpacks why voters are increasingly frustrated — and how this disconnect could shape the 2026 midterms.

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