88. Bush and Iraq, being J.D. Vance’s boss, and why Trump loses (David Frum)
Aug 4, 2024
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David Frum, a former speechwriter for George W. Bush and renowned political commentator, shares insights about his time with Bush and the complexities of contemporary politics. He examines the intriguing relationship between Trump and J.D. Vance, wondering about the implications of a Vance vice presidency. Frum also reflects on the challenges women face in politics and the potential fallout of Trump's protectionist policies. He intertwines personal stories of grief with discussions on foreign policy and the evolving nature of American political identity.
David Frum's personal history as a descendant of refugees informs his understanding of oppression and the importance of political vigilance against authoritarianism.
Frum's reflection on his initial support for the Iraq War illustrates a nuanced view, emphasizing the need for moral accountability in political decisions.
Concerns about Donald Trump's influence on the Republican Party highlight a shift towards extreme nationalism, threatening democratic principles and international alliances.
Deep dives
David Frum's Background and Early Influences
David Frum's upbringing in Toronto was shaped significantly by the experiences of his refugee ancestors, which instilled in him an understanding of oppression and the value of freedom. He noted that three of his four grandparents fled authoritarian regimes, leading to a childhood immersed in a community of survivors from historical traumas such as the Holocaust and various political upheavals. This personal history, combined with a comfortable home life, fostered in him a unique perspective on the importance of political vigilance and the role of external powers, particularly the U.S. and Britain, in maintaining peace and stability. Frum’s early political leanings gravitated towards conservatism, informed by a recognition of global dangers and a desire to protect North America from such threats.
Journey to Right-Wing Politics and Journalism
Frum's journey into right-wing politics and journalism was gradual, beginning with his education in the U.S. where he became involved with conservative thought. He worked at the Wall Street Journal, where he honed his skills as a writer and gained exposure to Republican ideals, which he embraced as a defense of freedom against authoritarianism. His eventual role as a speechwriter for George W. Bush during a pivotal time in American history, particularly surrounding 9/11, placed him in a significant position within the conservative movement. However, as the political landscape evolved, Frum began to diverge from the party, ultimately identifying more strongly with a never-Trump stance, viewing the former president's return as a threat to democracy.
Critique of the Iraq War and Evolving Perspectives
Frum's initial support for the Iraq War has been a point of contention and reflection for him. He emphasized that his backing was rooted in a belief in the necessity of self-defense, not for the sake of democratizing Iraq, and that many reasons for the war turned out to be based on faulty intelligence. As a result, Frum criticized the narrative propagated by both supporters and detractors of the war, noting that he did not blindly follow the party line when faced with the consequences of the invasion. This evolution in his perspective illustrates a broader shift within conservative ranks, where personal accountability and moral reflection are crucial in grappling with past decisions.
Concerns About Trump's Influence on the Republican Party
Frum expressed deep concerns about the impact of Donald Trump's political ethos on the future of the Republican Party and American democracy. He articulated that many current Republican strategies echo the grievances of nations like Hungary, characterized by extreme nationalism and a departure from traditional GOP values. Frum argued that this ideology creates a culture of pessimism and divisiveness, undermining the very principles of collective security and open markets that he once championed. He also warned that Trump's possible return to power would likely result in chaos, a decline in international alliances, and further polarization within American politics.
Personal Reflections on Grief and Resilience
In a poignant discussion, Frum reflected on the profound impact of losing his daughter, Miranda, and how that experience shaped his outlook on life and human vulnerability. He conveyed that writing about grief is inherently complex, as the emotional weight often overwhelms traditional narrative forms. By sharing memories and qualities of Miranda, he aimed to illustrate the universal nature of grief and the importance of cherishing life and connections. This personal journey of grappling with loss emphasizes the interconnectedness of personal experiences and broader societal issues, highlighting the essence of compassion amidst political discourse.
What was George W Bush like behind closed doors? Why did Trump really choose ‘never-Trump guy’ JD Vance as his running mate? How can Kamala Harris win the election?
Rory and Alastair are joined by George W Bush's former speech writer and political commentator David Frum to discuss all this and more.
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