To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes Terry Moran: Patriotism, Power, and a Perilous Moment
Nov 23, 2025
Terry Moran, a veteran journalist known for his insights on U.S. politics, joins Charlie Sykes to dive into a week that highlighted two contrasting Americas. They discuss the implications of Dick Cheney's respectful funeral versus President Trump's inflammatory rhetoric. Moran critiques the escalating authoritarian tone from political leaders and warns of a democracy under strain. They also tackle troubling issues like the Ukraine 'surrender plan,' the embrace of MBS, and the risks of potential conflict with Venezuela. The episode is a critical analysis of today's political landscape.
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Eulogies Versus Today's Politics
- Dick Cheney's funeral highlighted a bygone, stoic patriotism contrasted sharply with today's partisan spectacle.
- Terry Moran warns that the America Cheney embodied is largely gone and democratic norms are under strain.
Air Force Two Conversations
- Terry Moran recalled flying on Air Force Two and sharing whiskey with reporters during Cheney's long foreign trips.
- He said those moments felt like stepping into an older, more collegial Washington where critics still had access to the man.
Erosion Of Norms Enables Authoritarianism
- Moran argues Trump seeks to obliterate dissent rather than govern through persuasion and compromise.
- He warns this dynamic pushes the country toward either authoritarianism or a return to democratic norms through renewed civic persuasion.