Swamp Notes What a militaristic president means for democracy
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Jun 14, 2025 This discussion delves into President Trump's deployment of federal troops during protests, raising questions about military influence on democracy. The panel examines legal justifications for such actions and the public's perception of military use at home versus abroad. They explore the historical context of military parades, highlighting a shift from celebratory displays to symbols of power. Concerns about the normalization of military involvement in civilian affairs raise alarms about the implications for democratic values in America.
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Tanks Near DC Home
- Sonia Hudson describes hearing tanks rolling down Rhode Island Avenue near her home in Washington D.C.
- The tanks' presence coincided with Trump deploying troops to California protests, creating a striking image.
Trump's Strongman Persona
- Trump projects himself as a military strongman promising law and order against chaos.
- This image is uncomfortable for many Americans, diverging from traditional views of military deployment.
Military Parades Are Rare
- Military parades are rare in the U.S. since the Cold War to distinguish from authoritarian regimes.
- Holding a military parade on the president's birthday is historically unprecedented and extraordinary.