Raging Moderates: Newsom's Centrist Approach and Kamala’s Political Future
Mar 11, 2025
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Jessica Tarlov, a savvy political strategist and commentator, joins for a lively discussion. They tackle the chaos caused by Trump’s unpredictable trade policies and its impacts on businesses like the auto industry. The controversial stance of Governor Gavin Newsom on transgender athletes sparks a debate on party unity and voter perceptions. The conversation also highlights Democratic divisions following Al Green's censure and offers insights on how these dynamics shape the futures of leaders like Kamala Harris.
Trump's unpredictable tariff policies create significant market volatility and threaten businesses' ability to adapt to changing economic landscapes.
The censure of Al Green reveals deep divisions within the Democratic Party about how to effectively confront Trump amidst ongoing political tensions.
Governor Newsom's controversial stance on transgender athletes may jeopardize his progressive support while trying to align with broader public sentiment.
Deep dives
Impact of Trade Policy Changes
Recent shifts in trade policy have created significant volatility in financial markets, primarily due to President Trump's erratic announcements regarding tariffs. Following a brief reprieve on tariffs for Canada and Mexico, Trump threatened new duties on Canadian lumber and dairy, leaving businesses unsure of how to navigate the changing landscape. Critics warn that this unpredictability could lead to economic repercussions, as companies scramble to adapt to uncertain tariff implications and adjust their supply chains accordingly. The chaotic nature of Trump's second term contrasts sharply with the relative stability during his first term, primarily attributed to Steve Mnuchin's steady influence.
Democratic Party Divisions Demonstrated
The censure of Representative Al Green for interrupting Trump's address highlights ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party. Ten Democrats broke ranks to support the censure, indicating a rift on how to confront Trump’s tactics and the expectations placed on party members during contentious moments. Critics argue that Democrats must strike a balance between maintaining decorum and effectively resisting Trump's narrative. Furthermore, the focus on decorum may distract from substantive responses to pressing issues, as evidenced by the lack of attention some Democrats showed during poignant moments in Trump's speech.
Governor Newsom's Controversial Stance
California Governor Gavin Newsom's recent comments opposing transgender girls competing in high school girls' sports have sparked backlash from LGBTQ activists. By taking a stance that aligns with a significant portion of the general public, Newsom risks alienating progressive supporters who may view this as a regression of his past advocacy for LGBTQ rights. Polls indicate that a majority of Democrats, as well as the general electorate, are concerned about the fairness of competition in sports, which Newsom may aim to address through his political strategy. Nevertheless, this position could complicate his potential future presidential ambitions, as it challenges the party's progressive base.
Republican Chaos and Democratic Strategy
The suggestion from Democratic strategist James Carville that the party should adopt a 'do nothing' approach to let Republicans implode raises questions about effective political strategy. Carville emphasizes that leveraging the Republicans' mismanagement and infighting could be more beneficial than directly engaging with every attack or controversial issue. However, it's crucial for Democrats to remain disciplined and articulate about issues like Medicaid cuts rather than getting sidetracked by Republican distractions. A focus on clear, popular messaging around healthcare and economic stability could engage disenchanted voters and strengthen the party’s position.
The Unpredictability of Leadership
The unpredictable nature of Trump's leadership continues to affect the credibility of U.S. trade policies and relationships with allies, potentially causing long-term damage to the nation's global standing. Trump's potential disregard for established agreements and contrasting views from his administration create a chaotic environment in which businesses and allies struggle to establish trust. As alliances with other countries fray, there is growing concern that the U.S. is losing the benefits of cooperative trade relations. The lack of a consistent and reliable trade partner will likely lead countries to seek alternatives, further isolating the U.S. on the global stage.
Scott Galloway and Jessica Tarlov break down Trump’s tariff whiplash and the chaos it’s causing for businesses. Then, they dig into Rep. Al Green’s censure after protesting Trump’s Joint Address and what it says about divisions within the Democratic Party. Plus, Governor Gavin Newsom stirs controversy over transgender athletes, and James Carville urges Democrats to sit back and let Republicans self-destruct.
