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The Opinions

Bret Stephens on What Trump Gets Right, Wrong and Really, Really Wrong

Apr 17, 2025
Bret Stephens, a New York Times columnist and conservative commentator, dives into the intricacies of political loyalty in today's divided landscape. He shares mixed feelings about Trump's policies, acknowledging some successes while critiquing reckless actions. Stephens discusses the risks of politicizing anti-Semitism in academic settings and the complex reasoning behind Jewish voter support for Trump. He also reflects on the future of conservatism in the Trump era, balancing hope for democratic values with challenges faced by younger conservatives.
27:04

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Bret Stephens appreciates certain Trump policies but expresses deep frustration with their reckless execution and divisive impact on American society.
  • Stephens critiques Trump's foreign policy for undermining diplomatic relations and emphasizes the need for a return to constitutional conservative values.

Deep dives

The Dichotomy of Trump Support and Criticism

Navigating a complex relationship with Trump, Brett Stevens acknowledges that while he appreciates certain policies, such as stricter border control and actions against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, he harbors significant objections to the administration's approach. Stevens highlights a growing frustration with the reckless and divisive nature of Trump's presidency, suggesting that positive actions are often overshadowed by negative consequences and a lack of respect for constitutional norms. He further elaborates that even well-intended policies are executed poorly, contributing to an overall climate of fear and division that he finds unacceptable. This critical stance showcases the inner conflict of someone who wants strong leadership yet feels alienated by the current political environment and Trump's demeanor.

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