The Playbook Podcast Trump’s D.C. takeover timer runs out
Sep 10, 2025
As President Trump's control over D.C. law enforcement wanes, the podcast dives into the implications for his next moves in the city. Tensions rise with the fallout from Israel's bombing of Qatar, impacting Trump's diplomatic credibility. The dynamics of health policy surface as Trump navigates alliances with the Make America Healthy Again movement. Finally, it takes a lighter turn exploring Washington's culinary scene, highlighting must-visit restaurants and dishes that showcase the city's unexpected food vibrancy.
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Takeover Ended But Presence Remains
- Trump's 30-day federal takeover of D.C. ended but visual effects and political messaging mattered more than legal control.
- National Guard and federal agents remain, so the White House still influences city life and optics.
Victory Lap At Joe's Seafood
- Trump staged a final-day visit to Joe's Seafood as a mission-accomplished victory lap.
- Protesters and supporters both confronted him, illustrating the theater he sought to create.
Operation As Political Theater
- The White House treats the D.C. operation as a political spectacle to use in midterm messaging about crime.
- They're testing spreading this model to other cities, shifting focus to receptive states.