The Rest Is Politics: US 82. Trump Says No To Putin: Is He Serious?
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Apr 24, 2025 
Michael Steele, former chairman of the Republican National Committee and current television host, dives into the tumultuous world of Trump’s diplomacy. He discusses whether Trump’s latest stance on Putin is genuine or just a spectacle. The conversation navigates the internal Republican power struggles and the party's shifting values over the decades. Steele reflects on how race, politics, and traditional ideals intersect, urging a return to civility amidst the chaos in American democracy.
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Trump's Worldview: Weak vs Strong
- Donald Trump's worldview sees the world as divided into weak and strong countries, often blaming the weak for conflict.
- This psychology shapes his performative stance on issues like the Ukraine conflict, avoiding real confrontation with strong adversaries like Putin.
Loyalty Over Diplomacy
- Trump's preference for loyalty and praise over challenge shapes chaotic diplomacy and governance.
- His administration mimics this by performing for him instead of engaging in genuine international negotiations.
Trump's Infighting as Power Play
- Trump thrives on internal infighting among advisors, seeing it as a gladiatorial contest with himself as the decider.
- This environment fuels power struggles and distractions within his administration.