PBS News Hour - Brooks and Capehart Brooks and Capehart on Trump's threats against Minnesota and Greenland
7 snips
Jan 16, 2026 
Join political analysts Jonathan Capehart, an MSNBC commentator known for his incisive critiques, and David Brooks, a New York Times columnist renowned for his analytical prowess, as they delve into critical political issues. They discuss Trump's threats to invoke the Insurrection Act amid protests in Minnesota, expressing concerns about federal overreach. The duo also critiques Trump's foreign policy moves, specifically his meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and his bizarre claims about Greenland, highlighting the transactional nature of his engagement.
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DOJ Being Used As A Political Tool
- Jonathan Capehart argues the Trump administration is weaponizing the Department of Justice against political opponents.
- He lists subpoenas targeting Minnesota officials and other Democratic figures as evidence of politicized DOJ action.
Federal Response Resembles Occupation
- David Brooks warns the federal response to Minneapolis resembles an armed occupation.
- He predicts public exposure of harsh deportation tactics could provoke broader public pushback.
Stay Nonviolent To Win Public Sympathy
- David Brooks urges protesters to remain nonviolent to expose federal actions to Americans.
- He suggests peaceful tactics will help broaden sympathy beyond partisan lines.