The Foreign Affairs Interview
What Trump and the American Right See in Foreign Autocrats
Oct 24, 2024
Beverly Gage, a Yale historian and author of "G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century," dives into the surprising acceptance of foreign autocrats in U.S. politics, especially during Trump's presidency. She explores how historical admiration for dictators is woven into American political life. Gage also discusses the modern political shift towards authoritarianism, linking domestic grievances with the rise of foreign autocrats and drawing parallels to McCarthyism, revealing the intricate connections between past and present ideologies.
36:26
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's admiration for foreign autocrats reveals a historical continuity in American politics, showcasing the unsettling intertwining of nationalism and authoritarianism.
- The contrasting foreign policy visions presented by Trump and Harris highlight a critical voter dilemma between unilateral intimidation and collaborative strength in global engagement.
Deep dives
Distinctions in U.S. Foreign Policy
The current U.S. election features clear distinctions in foreign policy, with voters showing interest in how the U.S. should engage globally. Historical examples show that foreign policy has influenced presidential election outcomes, shifting perceptions from viewing elections purely through domestic issues. Voters often respond to ongoing wars and the country's competence in handling international affairs, suggesting that foreign policy considerations are more prominent than previously assumed. Issues like military power and conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East are at the forefront of voters' concerns, indicating a heightened awareness of America's role on the world stage.
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