The David Frum Show

Why Assassinations Shaped the 1960s and Haunt Us Again

30 snips
Sep 24, 2025
Geoffrey Kabaservice, a historian and vice president at the Niskanen Institute, explores the impact of the 1960s assassinations on modern politics. He discusses how political violence reshaped America and contrasts the early optimism of the decade with the subsequent chaos. Kabaservice highlights that alienation drives assailants on both sides of the spectrum, not just ideology. Additionally, he examines the role of technology and media in amplifying outrage and suggests that a return to pragmatic, centrist leadership could restore stability.
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INSIGHT

Wrong Order Risks Power

  • David Frum argues Trump reversed the usual authoritarian playbook by impoverishing the public before consolidating power.
  • This mis-sequencing increases political risk and may expose him to losing control.
INSIGHT

Tariffs As Visible Regressive Tax

  • Frum cites massive tariffs as deliberate regressive taxes hitting middle- and lower-income Americans.
  • He contrasts one month's tariff revenue with a multi-year tax break to show scale and public visibility.
INSIGHT

Foreign Money Amplifies Backlash

  • Frum warns that visible enrichment from foreign money fuels public resentment and political vulnerability.
  • He notes foreign-funded wealth displayed by the president can amplify backlash before power is secured.
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