Oliver Darcy, a former CNN media reporter and author of the newsletter Status, discusses how major media outlets are adjusting their coverage of Trump's chaotic return to the Oval Office. He highlights the decline in aggressive journalism and the chilling effects on press freedom. Chris Lehmann, D.C. Bureau Chief for The Nation, draws parallels between Trump and his idol, President McKinley, exploring their shared economic policies and the populist rhetoric that masks elite interests. Together, they dissect how history informs our understanding of today's political landscape.
Trump's aggressive return to the Oval Office is marked by executive orders that threaten social welfare and environmental regulations.
Media outlets are adopting a toned-down approach to Trump coverage, risking unchallenged narratives and accountability in political reporting.
The comparison to McKinley suggests Trump's policies favor the elite, mischaracterizing his administration as populist despite disconnection from grassroots needs.
Deep dives
Trump's Executive Orders and Influences
Donald Trump's first day in office featured a series of sweeping executive orders, reflecting an aggressive agenda that includes border control, economic policies, and free speech restoration. These actions signal a commitment to a form of governance that threatens existing regulations aimed at social welfare and environmental protection. Trump's approach echoes the historical narrative of President McKinley, whose policies favored business interests at the expense of broader social equity. This alignment with McKinley's economic isolationism positions Trump as a figure of exuberant protectionism, seeking to reinforce America's economic dominance.
The Media's Evolving Role
The media landscape has seen a significant transformation with the Trump presidency, particularly in how outlets like CNN handle coverage. Presenting a more cautious and less aggressive stance, some journalists have retreated from previously critical frameworks that characterized news during the first Trump administration. This shift creates a media environment where unchallenged narratives can proliferate, diminishing accountability in political reporting. As a result, the spectrum of how news is delivered has implications for public perception and civic engagement during Trump's renewed term.
Historical Parallels with Populism
Trump's revival of William McKinley’s policies invites scrutiny concerning the characteristics of true populism. While McKinley represented the interests of the elite and business magnates without addressing the needs of the working class, Trump's ascent appears similarly disconnected from grassroots populist rhetoric. The assertion that Trump's administration aligns with populist sentiments fundamentally misrepresents his loyalty to oligarchic interests. This misconception potentially undermines efforts to foster genuine populism rooted in expanding democracy and empowering marginalized groups.
Fear and Anxiety in American Politics
A notable aspect of Trump’s second term is the pervasive fear and anxiety it generates among many citizens. Various social commentators and average citizens expressed feelings of hopelessness and resignation regarding the political landscape, exacerbated by Trump's authoritative and divisive rhetoric. These emotions can stifle critical thinking and civic action, leading to apathy in political participation or unhealthy levels of stress. As anxiety crescendos in reaction to Trump's governance style, it can both shape and reflect the societal undercurrents that drive public engagement and resistance.
Continuity and Change in the GOP
The comparative analysis between Trump and historical figures like McKinley highlights the continuity of elite-driven agendas within the Republican Party. Both presidents maintained a strong connection to powerful corporate interests, leveraging political capital to secure favorable economic conditions for the elite. Additionally, Trump's ambitions for expansive policies parallel McKinley’s imperialistic tendencies, suggesting a consistent theme of American exceptionalism. This persistence raises questions about the potential for a resurgence of genuine populism that addresses the disparities created by such top-heavy administrations.
President Donald Trump’s second term began with a flurry of executive orders and press. On this week’s On the Media, how to navigate the onslaught of news. Plus, executives at major outlets are telling reporters to tone down coverage of the new administration. And, what we can learn about Trump by looking at the legacy of his favorite president, William McKinley.
[01:00] Host Brooke Gladstone on the flood of executive orders emerging from President Trump’s return to the Oval Office, and how the chaos is the point. Plus, host Micah Loewinger explores the role of fear in stymying action and understanding.
[18:55] Micah Loewinger speaks with Oliver Darcy, author of the newsletter Status and former CNN media reporter, on how media execs are instructing reporters to tone down their Trump coverage, and how current political journalism compares to that of four years ago.
[34:21] Brooke Gladstone speaks with Chris Lehmann, the DC Bureau chief for The Nation and a contributing editor at The Baffler, on what we can learn from President Donald Trump's role model, President William McKinley.
On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today (https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm). Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing onthemedia@wnyc.org.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
