The Daily Beast Podcast

How Trump Secretly Knifes Cabinet Suck-Ups: Wolff

12 snips
Dec 5, 2025
Michael Wolff, an acclaimed author and journalist known for his insightful critiques of media and politics, dives into the chaotic psyche of Donald Trump. He discusses Trump's insatiable need for flattery and how this affects his inner circle. The conversation delves into the Venezuela debacle, examining political risks and the shifting pace of Trump’s administration. Wolff also critiques the dubious Moscow overtures from Jared Kushner, highlighting a cabinet filled with what he dubs a 'moronocracy.' Tune in for a fascinating peek behind the curtain of Trump's world!
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Flattery And Fury Drive Trump

  • Michael Wolff argues Trump lives by two needs: flattery and fury, which drive his behavior more than policy or history.
  • When flattery saturates and fury ebbs, Trump becomes bored and loses engagement, affecting governance.
INSIGHT

Sycophancy Reaches A Dangerous Ceiling

  • Wolff notes flattery reaches a ceiling so Trump needs ever-more extreme sycophancy to stay engaged.
  • That tolerance build-up makes aides escalate performances until he becomes irritated and sees through them.
INSIGHT

He Needs An Enemy To Stay Engaged

  • Wolff says Trump also requires fury and an enemy to stimulate him, and without that theatrical rage he struggles.
  • A transition to slow, complicated political work may leave him disengaged and listless.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app