Eli Lake, a Commentary Contributing Editor and host of the Breaking History Podcast, dives deep into the national shocks that have transformed America over the last fifty years. He explores how Trump's tariffs have shifted public sentiment toward trade and the notion of normalcy. The conversation highlights economic fluctuations and the complex ties between foreign trade and democracy. Lake also reflects on President Biden's leadership amidst chaos and the role of extremist voices in current politics, creating a compelling narrative on today's tumultuous landscape.
The cumulative impact of national shocks over the past fifty years has led to societal numbness and diminished reactions to crises.
Distrust in institutions has grown as Americans grapple with a landscape of loyalty to leaders that overshadows rational political discourse.
Trump's protectionist policies present contradictions with public opinion on free trade, potentially leading to economic repercussions and backlash within his coalition.
Deep dives
Historical Shocks in America
The concept of seismic shocks impacting America since the turn of the century is outlined, emphasizing ten key events such as 9/11, the financial crisis of 2008, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Each event has contributed to a cumulative sense of disorientation, leading to a societal numbness where shocking occurrences no longer elicit strong reactions. This ongoing cycle of crises results in diminished expectations for a return to normalcy, as Americans adapt to the new unpredictable realities. As a result, there exists a pervasive feeling that significant events have lost their ability to astonish the public.
Trust Crisis and Disorientation
A growing distrust among Americans towards various institutions, including the media and government, is discussed, attributing this phenomenon to the compounded effects of unprecedented events over the past quarter-century. The notion that normality is a lost ideal banked in nostalgia is challenged, asserting that there was indeed a time when national events were manageable and matched with the public's capacity to process them. The current landscape fosters vigilance and skepticism, prompting Americans to be suspicious of everything around them. This ongoing trust crisis highlights how society grapples with the lingering impact of shocks and the sense of betrayal by higher authorities.
The Revolutionary Climate and Political Power
The conversation delves into the idea of a revolutionary period in light of Donald Trump's presidency, suggesting that the events since 9/11 may have paved the way for a significant political shift that Trump embodies. The concept of reality being malleable suggests that in times of chaos, powerful figures can assert drastic changes with little resistance. This dynamic empowers Trump to push boundaries, creating fears among his critics that he may have already altered the global economic order to suit his agenda. The notion of crossing the Rubicon emphasizes the irreversible nature of these changes, raising questions about potential future outcomes.
Economic Concerns and Trade Policies
The discussion focuses on the evolving landscape of public opinion regarding free trade and its implications for Trump’s policy decisions. A recent Gallup poll indicates a strong majority of Americans view free trade positively, reflecting a stark contradiction to Trump's protectionist rhetoric. The concern emerges that Trump's tariffs may have adverse effects on the economy, such as increased inflation and diminished purchasing power for the public. The conversation points out the importance of political leaders being attuned to the electorate's sentiments, suggesting that a backlash against excessive protectionism within his coalition may be brewing.
Idol Worship and Political Allegiance
The phenomenon of idol worship within the Republican Party and its implications for political discourse, particularly concerning Trump, is critically examined. Figures like Laura Loomer are brought into the discussion to illustrate how loyalty to Trump overshadows rational governance and political accountability. This trend leads to troubling scenarios where individuals misguide policy discussions based on personal vendettas rather than substantive governance. The sentiments suggest that the process of idolizing politicians detracts from a rational political framework, ultimately risking policies that serve special interests over public good.
Did the successive national shocks of the past half-century lead to the shock of "Liberation Day"? That was the focus of my COMMENTARY daily newsletter from yesterday, and today we use that newsletter as a launching point to discuss Trump's tariffs, the public's reaction, and if we ever lived in "normal" times. Give a listen.
