Jacobin Radio Confronting Capitalism: How Trump Became a Neocon
Jun 25, 2025
Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst, delves into the complexities of Trump’s transformation from a populist figure to a neoconservative leader. He discusses how Trump’s policies align more closely with traditional Republican ideologies, shedding light on the discontent among his MAGA base. The conversation also critiques the Democratic Party’s failure to present a genuine alternative, while contemplating the potential for a united left-wing movement in the current political landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Neoconservatism Dominates US Policy
- Neoconservatism denotes a U.S. foreign policy favoring unilateral American supremacy and military expansion.
- This ideology is dominant in both parties, not just among Republican politicians.
Trump’s Populist Mask Slipped
- Trump's anti-war rhetoric on the campaign trail did not translate into his governance.
- His administration ultimately aligned with aggressive neoconservative policies, especially regarding Iran and Israel.
Trump’s Domestic Policies Favored Elites
- Trump governed with conventional conservative policies rather than populist ones domestically.
- His tax cuts favored the wealthy and he attempted to roll back Medicaid and Obamacare.