Jacobin Radio
Confronting Capitalism: Can the Republican Party Survive Trump?
Mar 26, 2025
The podcast delves into the Republican Party's evolution amid Trump's rise to power. It examines the tensions between traditional values and the radical shifts within the party. Insights reveal how Trump's relationship with the business class is fragile. The conversation also highlights the impact of big money on politics, showcasing the struggles for unity among party factions. Additionally, concerns about democratic norms and the growing executive power under Trump's leadership are addressed, urging grassroots efforts for change.
29:56
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Quick takeaways
- The Republican Party's current dominance is significantly influenced by Donald Trump's personal leadership style, replacing traditional party coherence with loyalty to his brand.
- The decline of organized labor weakened the American capitalist class, leading to fragmented support for Trump and diminished institutional strength within the Republican Party.
Deep dives
The Shift in the Republican Party's Identity
The Republican Party has undergone a significant transformation from its historical identity as the party of business to one increasingly influenced by Donald Trump. Initially, the business community demonstrated reluctance towards Trump, who was not their preferred candidate even as he ascended to prominence. This shift can be traced back to the failures of previous Republican leaders such as George W. Bush and Mitt Romney, whose presidencies contributed to a discrediting of establishment figures within the party. The resulting internal conflict and lack of consensus opened the door for Trump to maneuver and redefine the party's ethos, capitalizing on a divided base and exploiting a confrontational approach to politics.
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