Olivia Nuzzi, Bret Stephens, and Ben Terris talk about the potential of a Trump dynasty, victimization in politics, the impact of Trumpism on the American regime, Trump's trials and charges, media economy, Trump fatigue, and the challenge of addressing Trump for Republican candidates.
Trump's shameless behavior only strengthens his support base, indifferent to allegations and indictments against him.
The Republican Party's focus on showmanship and attention-seeking behavior has overshadowed responsible governance, resulting in dysfunction.
Democrats must address issues that resonate with Americans and take the threat of Trumpism seriously to counter his potential re-election.
Deep dives
The Impossibility of Disqualifying Trump
Despite his despicable behavior and contempt for disabled veterans, Donald Trump remains a leading candidate for the Republican Party. His supporters continue to rally behind him, dismissing any allegations and indictments against him as part of a witch hunt. The trials and evidence presented may not have a significant impact on changing their opinions or support. This illustrates the extent of Trump's shamelessness and the strength of his support base, which is driven by a desire to see him act in ways they wish they could themselves.
The Clownishness of the Republican Party
The Republican Party's trajectory from innovation to imitation to idiocy has led to the rise of Trump. The party has become synonymous with clownishness, embracing celebrity, fear-mongering, and bigotry. The focus on showmanship and attention-seeking behavior has overshadowed the best traditions of the party and its commitment to responsible governance. The current governance structure in the Republican Party is dominated by clowns, resulting in dysfunction and a lack of seriousness in the pursuit of effective policy.
Underestimating the Threat of Trump and the Need for Serious Democratic Leadership
There is a danger that Democrats are underestimating the threat of Donald Trump and the potential for him to be elected president again. While Trump's behavior and actions are grotesque, Democrats need to focus on governance and addressing issues that resonate with Americans, such as inflation and border control. Ignoring these issues or expressing contempt for Trump's supporters can backfire and contribute to Trump's popularity. Democrats must take the threat of Trumpism seriously and provide strong and effective leadership to counter it.
The shifting influence of Trump's criminal behavior on his popularity and the uncertainty of his trials' outcomes
The speaker highlights that although Trump may have a hold on the majority of the Republican Party, his criminal behavior and trials could impact his popularity and the success of his presidential aspirations.
The contrasting sides of American conservatism and the uncertain future of the Republican Party
The panel discusses the split within American conservatism as it pertains to Donald Trump, with one side viewing Trump as the logical outcome of conservatism and the other side seeing him as a departure from true conservative values. The panel ponders the future of the Republican Party, suggesting it could pivot towards more entertainment-oriented figures like Trump or return to a more traditional conservative approach.
Olivia Nuzzi, Bret Stephens, and Ben Terris joined Charlie Sykes on stage in Austin over the weekend. While the Dems have Gretchen Whitmer to look forward to, the GOP's future may be people like Vivek—because the base must be entertained. Meanwhile, we may be facing a government shutdown because Gaetz and Boebert think it will increase their celebrity status.
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