Hacks On Tap Monumental Power Grab (with Paul Begala)
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Aug 12, 2025 Paul Begala, a seasoned Democratic strategist, shares his insights on the current political climate and Trump’s impact on Washington. He discusses Trump’s 'flood the zone' tactics to overshadow controversies like the Epstein case. The conversation explores implications of redistricting drama on midterm elections and the challenges faced by Democrats in crafting effective narratives. Begala also emphasizes the importance of integrity in politics and the need for the Democratic Party to engage more with its moderate base amidst rising extremism.
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Power Moves Are Often Performance
- Trump's deployment rhetoric is largely performative and aimed at optics rather than matching crime data.
- Paul Begala and David Axelrod note crime in D.C. is at a 30-year low despite the presidential spectacle.
Counter Bad Optics With Visible Action
- Mayors should fight optics with optics by creating visible public-safety units and showcasing cops as heroes.
- David Axelrod and Mike Murphy advise marching uniformed units in high-traffic areas and choosing a single media fight to win.
City Targets Serve Political Ends
- Trump targets cities for political effect, not by highest crime per capita, revealing racially tinged selections.
- Begala points out many highest-crime cities are in red states, yet Trump's list focuses on blue cities.