The Opinions Make America 1897 Again
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Jan 28, 2025 
In a captivating discussion, Jamelle Bouie, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times, dives into the lessons the 1890s can teach us about today’s political climate. He unpacks Donald Trump’s surprising admiration for President McKinley, examining how this reflects shifting cultural attitudes. The conversation explores the tensions between elitism and populism, the impact of tech industry ambitions, and the echoes of the Gilded Age in modern society. Bouie highlights how past ideologies are reshaping our current political landscape.
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Trump's McKinley Affinity
- Donald Trump's interest in William McKinley seems less about historical emulation and more about associating himself with a prominent Republican president.
- Trump's focus is likely on McKinley's use of tariffs and the era's burgeoning American imperialism.
Gilded Age Allure
- The Gilded Age, a period of stark inequality, is now strangely viewed as a positive aspiration.
- This shift reflects a concerning acceptance of vast wealth disparity.
Yarvin's Influence
- Curtis Yarvin, a blogger, promotes the idea that a tech-led autocracy is superior to democracy, influencing Trump's circle.
- He argues that egalitarianism hinders technological advancement, appealing to wealthy Silicon Valley figures.