The DSR Network

FTA: The Latest from the Decline of US Civilization

Jan 2, 2026
Ed Luce, a Financial Times columnist with expertise in geopolitics, joins David Rothkopf to unpack pressing issues in the U.S. They delve into the troubling militarization of law enforcement and its implications for civil liberties. Luce highlights the alarming ICE quotas under Stephen Miller, broadening the targeting of migrants. They compare the current political landscape to authoritarian regimes and discuss the critical role of governors like Gavin Newsom in pushing back against federal overreach. The conversation also critiques Trump's trade dealings with China and their potential global repercussions.
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ANECDOTE

Green Card Holder Roadblock Joke

  • Ed Luce jokes about evading a roadblock as a green card holder and feeling targeted.
  • The banter highlights everyday anxiety under intensified immigration enforcement rhetoric.
INSIGHT

Militarized Policing As Political Theater

  • The administration is using the military and tactical forces to intimidate civilians and deter protests.
  • Ed Luce warns this is the start of selective policing tactics that risk normalizing authoritarian measures.
INSIGHT

Parade As Personal Power Display

  • The planned four-mile military parade in Washington is an unprecedented, personalistic display by the president.
  • Luce and Rothkopf see it as Trump staging power theater to legitimize domestic force and bask in authority.
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