Front Burner Donald Trump’s billionaire administration
Jan 14, 2025
Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University professor and author of "Crack-Up Capitalism," delves into the unprecedented wealth concentrated in Donald Trump’s administration, featuring 13 billionaires. He discusses how the tech elite have aligned with Trump, reshaping political dynamics. Slobodian highlights the impacts of billionaire influence on governance, including their interactions with far-right parties globally. The conversation also touches on the culture of impunity among the rich and the changing relationship between politics and capitalism.
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Unprecedented Wealth in Politics
- The ultra-wealthy's involvement in American politics isn't new, but the scale of Trump's billionaire cabinet is unprecedented.
- This signifies a potential shift in policy and raises questions about their public alignment with Trump.
Open Display of Wealth and Power
- Unlike past administrations where influence was exerted covertly, billionaires now openly court the White House.
- This shamelessness reflects a shift where the ultra-wealthy are less stigmatized and even admired.
Tech's Rise in Political Influence
- Trump's cabinet appointments reveal a shift in the center of American profit.
- It's moving from traditional Wall Street finance towards tech, influencing policy and power dynamics.
