Historian Thomas Frank, renowned for his insightful analyses of American politics, dives into why Democrats have strayed from their populist roots. He critiques the party's alignment with the elite and the impact of faux-populism from Trump. Frank addresses the disconnection with the working class and argues for genuine left-wing populism as a solution to neoliberal failures. He draws parallels between past leaders and modern figures, emphasizing the need for authentic political voices to truly represent the public.
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insights INSIGHT
Democrats' Shift in Focus
The Democratic Party has gradually shifted its focus from the working class to the professional class since the 1970s.
This was a deliberate strategy, influenced by figures like Bill Clinton, to appeal to a class associated with "futureness."
question_answer ANECDOTE
Kansas City Voting Shift
Thomas Frank recounts how his childhood neighborhood, once a Republican stronghold, now overwhelmingly votes Democrat.
This illustrates the class realignment, with affluent voters shifting towards the Democratic Party.
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Donor Influence
Democrats' dependence on big money donors hinders their ability to adopt policies benefiting ordinary people.
Even if aware of their losing strategy, they prioritize donor interests, making change difficult.
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In this book, Thomas Frank explores the transformation of Kansas from a state with a radical past to a stronghold of conservative politics. He argues that the culture wars have allowed the Republican Party to capture the populist language of social class, presenting themselves as the embodiment of working-class anti-elitism. Frank analyzes how conservatism, once associated with class privilege, became the creed of many ordinary Americans, particularly in Kansas, where workers and farmers support policies that often harm their own economic interests. The book critiques the role of the Democratic Party in neglecting its traditional support base, such as organized labor, and how this neglect has contributed to the rise of conservative politics[1][2][4].
Listen, Liberal
Or, What Ever Happened to the Party of the People?
Thomas Frank
In 'Listen, Liberal', Thomas Frank argues that the Democratic Party has abandoned its historic commitment to the working and middle classes, instead aligning itself with the interests of the professional class. Frank contends that this shift has led to increased economic inequality, as policies favoring Wall Street and corporate interests have become more prevalent. He criticizes Democratic presidents such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama for their adherence to free-market policies and their reliance on advice from Ivy League-educated elites. The book also discusses the 2016 presidential election and how the Democratic Party's failure to address economic inequality contributed to the rise of populist candidates like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders.
The People Know
A Brief History of Anti-Populism
Thomas Frank
Thomas Frank's "The People Know" offers a concise yet insightful history of anti-populism in America. He examines the recurring attempts to discredit and undermine populist movements, revealing the strategies employed by elites to maintain their power. Frank's analysis highlights the enduring tension between the interests of the ruling class and the aspirations of ordinary citizens. The book provides a valuable historical context for understanding contemporary political struggles. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the history of populism and its ongoing relevance in American politics.
The wrecking crew
Thomas Frank
Oliver Wyman
Thomas Frank's "The Wrecking Crew" delves into the systematic dismantling of American institutions and the rise of corporate power. He meticulously traces the actions of conservative think tanks and policy advisors who orchestrated this transformation. Frank exposes the ideological underpinnings and strategic maneuvers that reshaped the political landscape, leading to increased inequality and the erosion of democratic norms. The book provides a critical examination of the forces that have shaped modern American politics and the consequences of their actions. It's a compelling narrative of power, ideology, and the fight for control over American society.
Pity the billionaire
Agustín López Tobajas
María Tabuyo Ortega
Thomas Frank
Thomas Frank's "Pity the Billionaire" offers a sharp critique of the pervasive influence of wealth and power in American society. He challenges the narrative that billionaires are solely responsible for economic growth and innovation, arguing that their immense wealth often comes at the expense of the working class and democratic institutions. Frank exposes the ways in which billionaires shape public policy and manipulate the political system to protect their interests. The book is a call for greater economic equality and a more just distribution of wealth. It's a provocative and timely examination of the power dynamics that shape modern America.
This episode originally aired on December 10, 2024. Get new episodes early at patreon.com/CurrentAffairs!
Thomas Frank, historian, journalist, and author of What’s the Matter with Kansas? and Listen, Liberal, joins us to dissect how Democrats abandoned populism, the rise of Trump’s faux-populism, and why the party refuses to embrace the working class. He also explores the path forward for authentic left-wing populism in the face of neoliberal failures.
“The Democrats posture as the “party of the people” even as they dedicate themselves ever more resolutely to serving and glorifying the professional class. Worse: they combine self-righteousness and class privilege in a way that Americans find stomach-turning. And every two years, they simply assume that being non-Republican is sufficient to rally the voters of the nation to their standard. This cannot go on.
Yet it will go on, because the most direct solutions to the problem are off the table for the moment. The Democrats have no interest in reforming themselves in a more egalitarian way. There is little the rest of us can do, given the current legal arrangements of this country, to build a vital third-party movement or to revive organized labor, the one social movement that is committed by its nature to pushing back against the inequality trend.” — Thomas Frank, Listen, Liberal
Current Affairs 
