David Frum, an influential anti-Trumper from a Republican White House, discusses Trump's plans, Biden's options, fate of both parties, and America. Topics include historical contingencies, consequences of political violence, Trump's business fraud, and delegate selection process evolution.
Small events can drastically alter nations' courses, as seen in Trump's assassination attempt.
Philosophical approach needed to avoid escalating tensions and potential conflicts in American political history.
Debate on whether history is shaped by powerful individuals or societal forces, reflected in election outcomes.
Importance of upholding democratic principles while addressing political violence, maintaining societal stability.
Deep dives
Trump Survival and American History's Contingency
Trump's survival in the face of challenges has led to concerns about the potential alternate realities that could have emerged. The podcast explores the close margins of history, where small events can drastically alter the course of nations. Examples like the attempted assassination of Trump highlight how pivotal moments can diverge into vastly different outcomes.
Escalating Political Tensions and Historical Parallels
The podcast delves into the escalating tensions and potential consequences in American political history. Drawing parallels to past events like gangland shootouts and historical global conflicts, there is a reflection on the dangers of gradual escalation, emphasizing the need for a philosophical approach to avoid further polarization and potential conflicts.
Questioning the Influence of Individuals on History
The podcast prompts a reflection on the age-old debate of whether history is shaped primarily by powerful individuals or larger societal forces. By exploring the impact of pivotal moments and decisions, such as the election outcomes and political landscape, the discussion raises questions about the balance between personal agency and historical inevitability.
Ethics of Political Violence and Upholding Democratic Principles
The episode navigates the complexities of addressing political violence within the democratic framework, examining the implications of condoning or condemning such actions. Emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law, the conversation highlights the delicate balance of maintaining societal stability while addressing underlying grievances.
Uncertainty Surrounding Biden's Decision
There is uncertainty surrounding Biden's decision about running for office, with public and private statements causing confusion. Nancy Pelosi's comments indicate that Biden has not definitively announced his decision, leading to speculation about potential off-ramps for him.
Complexity of Presidential Succession
The discussion delves into the intricate process of presidential succession, exploring scenarios involving Biden's potential resignation and the challenges of ensuring a smooth transition. The complexities of replacing Biden and avoiding party discord, particularly concerning Kamala Harris's leadership, are highlighted.
Historical Political Comparisons
Historical examples, like the unconventional presidency of Harry Truman, are used to analyze current political dynamics. The conversation touches on the unique challenges faced in American politics, including the continuous vetting process and the impact of various candidates on election outcomes.
Well, what happens now? Does Donald Trump win? Does he lose? To whom? What are we all in for?
On the eve of Trump’s coronation as the Republican presidential candidate at the party’s National Convention this week, he was narrowly shot in an apparent assassination attempt at a rally.
Is this the most dramatic election of our lives? David Frum is one of the most influential anti-Trumpers to come out of a Republican White House. As President George W Bush’s speechwriter, he's credited with the famous phrase the "axis of evil". He wrote the first insider account of the Bush presidency. Frum is now a senior editor at The Atlantic.
David and Josh sat down shortly before the Trump shooting for the occasion of the Republican National Convention. They discuss Trump’s plans, Biden’s options, the fate of both parties… and of America.
In the first half-hour of this episode, Josh reflects on how to process this moment, and how the assassination attempt and response have already begun to shape what the future will hold for this campaign as well as American democracy at large.