The DSR Network Words Matter: The One Big Thing We Need to Do to Save the Country
Jan 22, 2026
The discussion dives into the chaotic state of American politics under Trump, emphasizing his damage to NATO and international trust. There's a focus on the alarming signs of Trump's health and the nation's obsession with his potential removal. The hosts analyze failures within institutions that allowed his political survival and critique Democratic strategies in confronting these issues. They stress the need for accountability and assertiveness in political tactics, urging for reforms to safeguard democracy against future upheavals.
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Unprecedented Damage To Alliances
- Donald Trump's term has produced unprecedented disruption to alliances and norms, unlike past presidential scandals.
- Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf argue this level of damage to NATO and global trust is historically unique.
Waking Up To 'Is This The End?'
- David Rothkopf recounts waking at night to find news of Trump's plane turning around and the public's manic hope for an end.
- He describes how people nightly wonder if 'this will finally be over,' showing collective exhaustion.
Evidence Met Legal Roadblocks
- Jack Smith's testimony portrays Donald Trump as legally vulnerable with strong evidence on multiple counts.
- Rothkopf stresses the courtroom and judicial interventions (Aileen Cannon, Supreme Court) prevented these prosecutions from disqualifying Trump.
