On the Media

Donald Trump’s Cabinet of Influencers. Plus, The Harvard Plan.

63 snips
Dec 6, 2024
Drew Harwell, a technology reporter at The Washington Post, discusses the striking trend of political figures emulating social media influencers for cabinet roles, dubbed ‘influencer creep.’ He highlights the implications of this culture on politics, including the commodification of fame in governance. The conversation also dives into Claudine Gay's tumultuous presidency at Harvard, marking a clash over cultural wars, free speech, and expectations of diversity, revealing how social media amplified campus tensions amid ongoing protests.
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ANECDOTE

RFK Jr.'s TikTok Ad

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated for HHS, advertised Boxballin' on TikTok.
  • This is unusual for a potential government official and highlights the influencer trend.
ANECDOTE

Dr. Oz's Endorsements

  • Dr. Oz, nominated to run Medicare/Medicaid, endorsed iHerb and ashwagandha.
  • Even after his nomination, he continued promoting products, blurring the lines.
ANECDOTE

Hegseth's Product Promotions

  • Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Defense, promotes his book and a grenade-shaped soap.
  • This exemplifies the influencer-politician trend in Trump's cabinet.
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