Ep83. Trump Derangement Syndrome with the Two Matts
Nov 19, 2024
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Join Matt Kelly, Founder of The New European and co-host of The Two Matts podcast, alongside fellow host Matt d’Ancona, Editor-in-chief of The New European. The duo dives into the troubling rise of neopopulism, drawing parallels between the UK and US political landscapes. They dissect the failures of the center-left and highlight the urgent need for bold leadership to combat swelling anti-immigrant sentiments. With sharp commentary on current political figures and strategies, they explore how complacency is eroding progressive values on both sides of the Atlantic.
The rise of neopopulism in both the UK and US reflects a dissatisfaction with traditional politics, emphasizing cultural identity and radical change.
Complacency within political establishments has prevented meaningful engagement with voters' grievances, necessitating a bold reassessment of progressive messaging strategies.
Deep dives
The Rise of Neopopulism
Neopopulism has become a dominant force in both Britain and the United States, characterized by a rejection of traditional political norms and an appeal to nationalist sentiments. The discussion reveals that both countries have experienced a significant shift in political dynamics, where established parties have failed to address the underlying grievances that fuel populist movements. Voters are increasingly drawn to leaders who promise radical change, often at the expense of democratic principles, with figures like Donald Trump and Boris Johnson embodying this trend. The podcast emphasizes that instead of preparing for a return to 'normal' politics, these movements represent a fundamental rethinking of political engagement based on feelings of disenfranchisement and cultural identity.
Complacency of the Political Establishment
The podcast underscores the entrenched complacency within the political establishment as a significant factor contributing to the rise of neopopulism. Critics argue that leaders and media professionals failed to recognize the severity of the challenges presented by populist sentiments and neglected to offer compelling alternatives to disillusioned voters. This complacency is seen as a critical misstep, reflecting a broader failure to engage with the electorate's deep-seated concerns surrounding identity, social justice, and economic inequality. The speakers assert that moving forward requires a radical reassessment of political strategies, prioritizing transparent communication and genuine engagement with the public's needs.
Cultural Wars and Communication Strategies
The conversation highlights the central role that cultural wars play in shaping political landscapes, particularly in the context of both British and American politics. It is noted that populist figures have successfully tapped into cultural anxieties, directing public dissatisfaction towards minorities and established elites. As such, effective communication strategies that resonate with voters' experiences and emotions are deemed essential for progressive leaders to counter this narrative. Furthermore, there is a call for politicians on the left to embrace boldness and clarity in their messaging, thereby shifting away from defensive postures that fail to excite or mobilize their base.
Lessons from Global Examples of Populism
The podcast outlines lessons that can be drawn from various global instances of populism, such as the situations in Hungary and Israel, where cultural identity plays a pivotal role. The speakers emphasize that while the right has successfully framed issues in simple terms, the left struggles to articulate a coherent, relatable response. The discussion points to the necessity for progressives to define clear, compelling missions that connect with the electorate’s aspirations, rather than just responding to right-wing narratives. By examining how different populist movements thrive in distinct contexts, the podcast calls for a reassessment of current political strategies that address the complexities of governance in a polarized environment.
The Post-Mortem autopsy continues. How could liberal elites have had eight and half years to prepare for the twenty thousand tonne train barrelling down the tracks right at them and not been able to take sufficient evasive action? Who are these clowns? Do they deserve what is coming? What can studying years of Brexit Fatigue, Orban Exhaustion, and Netanyahu Nihilism, teach us about both how this Trumpian travesty has happened and the likely disorderly evolution of peak Neopopulism in America? And what is the antidote to Trump Derangement Syndrome? Jason needs a double dose.
In this episode, Jason is joined by Matt Kelly and Matt d’Ancona – the hosts of The New European’s ‘The Two Matts’ podcast. They discuss the abysmal state of the world and Keir Starmer’s inability to lead with vision. They review and assess the rise of neopopulism in both the UK and the US. The conclusion is that the goose is cooked. Complacency and a lack of bold messaging has led to the evisceration of the centre-left globally. Jason even questions if he is of the centre-left anymore, concluding he may simply be a disillusioned and increasingly radical centrist. While the Two Matts share bon mot about recent horrific developments in Britain, Jason explores some lessons from Hungary and Israel, which may possibly shed some light on the likely future trajectory of neopopulism in America. Delving briefly into the shocking and depressing cabinet appointments trickling out of MAGA world, the Two Matts and Jason also reflect on the social legacy of the Trump era and its lasting impact on Western political discourse. In place of Ordering the Disorder (which may no longer be possible as Disorder has already won), The Two Matts answer lightening round questions about the most macabre moments of Trump-iness and some of the humorous aspects of the challenges ahead.