This episode of the Economist Intelligence podcast explores two key topics. First, it delves into the ongoing protests in Tbilisi, Georgia, which are driven by public frustration over the ruling Georgian Dream Party’s perceived favoritism towards Russia and its crackdown on dissent. Despite government attempts to suppress dissent, protests are spreading beyond the capital, hinting at a significant shift in the political landscape. The second topic examines potential budget cuts under a new US administration, specifically targeting NASA's Artemis program. Although this program appears vulnerable due to high costs and inefficiencies, the entrenched political interests within NASA and its widespread impact across various states make substantial cuts unlikely.