RealClearPolitics Podcast The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland
Jan 20, 2026
The conversation dives into the stirring discussions at the World Economic Forum, featuring notable figures like Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and President Emmanuel Macron. Tension brews around Democrats' calls for the 25th Amendment regarding Trump’s recent controversial tweets. The hosts examine a Justice Department investigation into disruptive protests at a church, spurred by Bruce Springsteen’s remarks. Also, Elon Musk's substantial donation to a Kentucky senate hopeful raises eyebrows about political influence and the shifting landscape of party dynamics.
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Tariffs As Geopolitical Leverage
- Scott Bessent framed Trump's Greenland threats as leverage and urged calm amid tariff brinkmanship in Davos.
- Philip Wegmann noted the administration uses tariffs as geopolitical tools to crowd out domestic issues like affordability.
Personal Grievances Enter Diplomacy
- Donald Trump's Norway tweet tied personal grievances to foreign policy and alarmed European leaders and some cabinet members.
- Carl Cannon argued the message sounded unhinged and raised concerns about the president's emotional state.
25th Amendment Is Political Fantasy
- Calls to invoke the 25th Amendment were dismissed as unrealistic given the cabinet's loyalty and political consequences for J.D. Vance.
- Philip Wegmann urged Congress to reassert authority instead of seeking a presidential removal stunt.
