In this engaging discussion, Josh Rogin, a lead global security analyst for the Washington Post and author of "Chaos Under Heaven," provides insights into the chaotic U.S.-China relations during Trump's presidency. He critiques Trump’s troubling foreign policy decisions and the influence of key advisors that fueled a trade war. The conversation also covers the implications of Trump’s meeting with El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele, concerns over civil liberties, and the political shifts observed in Canada and Australia under Trump's controversial legacy.
The alliance between Nayib Bukele and Donald Trump illustrates a dangerous support for authoritarianism that threatens civil liberties in America.
Daniel Noboa's victory in Ecuador emphasizes a regional trend where voters favor strong-handed governance in response to rising crime rates.
Eric Prince's involvement in Latin America raises concerns about the privatization of security and its implications for democratic governance.
Proposed budget cuts by the Trump administration for the State Department may diminish U.S. global influence and hinder international diplomacy efforts.
Deep dives
Importance of Squarespace for Businesses
Squarespace is highlighted as a comprehensive all-in-one website platform essential for enhancing online presence and driving business success. It provides tools for claiming domains, building professional websites, and managing payments, making it particularly suitable for businesses of various sizes. The platform enables users to showcase their offerings through customizable design tools, ensuring that they can attract clients and grow their business effectively. With features that cater to different needs, from consultations to events, Squarespace positions itself as a go-to solution for entrepreneurs.
Trump and Bukele: Political Alliances
The dynamics of the relationship between President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador and former President Donald Trump are explored, emphasizing Bukele's emergence as a partner in Trump's approach to civil liberties. Bukele's visit to Washington and Trump's praise raise questions about the implications of their alliance, especially concerning authoritarian tendencies. During the meeting, Trump's support for Bukele's crime-fighting methods starkly contrasts with concerns regarding their implications on democratic rights. This alignment signals a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities toward supporting leaders with authoritarian tendencies.
Ecuador’s Recent Elections and Political Landscape
The recent elections in Ecuador witnessed the victory of right-wing candidate Daniel Noboa, who campaigned on addressing violence and gang-related crime within the country. Noboa's rise reflects a growing trend in Latin America, where leaders with authoritarian approaches resonate with voters seeking security amid rising crime rates. The electoral decision is further complicated by allegations of fraud from his leftist challenger, Luisa Gonzalez, despite the Organization of American States confirming the validity of the election results. This political shift in Ecuador is indicative of broader regional patterns favoring candidates who promise strong-handed governance over progressive alternatives.
The Role of Eric Prince in Authoritarian Politics
Former Blackwater CEO Eric Prince’s involvement in the political landscape of Latin America is scrutinized, particularly regarding his collaboration with leaders like Bukele and Noboa. Prince is reportedly providing security consulting services, potentially contributing to the militarization of political responses to crime. This alliance raises concerns about privatizing the influence of security and military operations in democratic contexts, highlighting the implications of profit motives intertwining with governance. The unique relationship between mercenary groups and state functions risks reinforcing authoritarianism in these regions.
Potential Consequences of U.S. Foreign Policy Cuts
Reports indicate significant cuts proposed by the Trump administration for the State Department and USAID, threatening to reduce funding by nearly half. Such reductions may impede vital global health initiatives and humanitarian assistance while also closing diplomatic outposts, including embassies. The implications might lead to decreased U.S. influence worldwide, allowing adversaries to fill the void left by America’s diminished engagement. Critics argue that this retreat from international diplomacy ultimately undermines U.S. security and interests, exacerbating vulnerabilities on the global stage.
The Current State of U.S.-China Relations
The relationship between the U.S. and China is characterized by an escalating trade war instigated by the Trump administration, illustrating a shift from its earlier focus on negotiating deals with Xi Jinping. Despite the chaos in the Trump administration's foreign policy, the Chinese have strategically positioned themselves to endure economic challenges longer than the U.S. This prolonged conflict over tariffs and technology reflects the complexity of the geopolitical landscape, where both nations engage in a high-stakes game of bluffing and provocation. The conversation underscores the critical need for coherent and strategic policy-making to effectively navigate this rivalry.
Implications of Wyckoff's Influence in Foreign Policy
Steve Wyckoff’s role as a senior adviser in the Trump administration is scrutinized, highlighting his growing influence over crucial foreign policy decisions. Despite lacking formal qualifications, Wyckoff's closeness to Trump enables him to impact negotiations significantly, raising concerns among experts about the quality of U.S. foreign policy. His negotiations, particularly with Russia and Iran, reflect a deviation from traditional diplomatic protocols, emphasizing personal relationships over established processes. This shift raises alarms about accountability and the potential for harmful policy outcomes driven by personal ties rather than national interest.
Tommy and Ben discuss El Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele’s White House meeting with Trump and their coordinated assault on due process in America, the terrifying prospect of Trump sending American citizens to foreign prisons, Daniel Noboa’s re-election in Ecuador, and disgraced military contractor Erik Prince’s attempts to privatize and profit from right-wing autocracy. They also talk about Trump’s failures to end the war in Ukraine, the administration's talks with Iran about its nuclear program and the fight to define what a successful Iran deal 2.0 could look like, and the anti-Trump effect on Australia and Canada’s upcoming elections. Then, Tommy speaks to Josh Rogin, author of Chaos Under Heaven: Trump, Xi, and the Battle for the Twenty-First Century, about Trump’s chaotic China policymaking in the first term and who in the administration is influencing his decision-making as he launches a massive trade war.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
