The NPR Politics Podcast

John Boehner Thinks The Republican Party Has Changed. Has It?

Apr 12, 2021
A former House Speaker reveals that even a giant like Ronald Reagan would struggle to gain traction in today's Republican Party. He shares insights on his own momentous political journey and candidly discusses the loneliness of leadership in a divided landscape. A clash between traditional governance and a new wave of anti-government sentiment is explored, shedding light on the obstructionist tactics now prevalent in Congress. The conversation also touches on lost chances for bipartisanship and the party's significant shift away from compromise.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Boehner's Leadership Challenges

  • John Boehner struggled to lead a fractured Republican conference.
  • He often felt compelled to follow his party's direction, even when he disagreed.
INSIGHT

Boehner's Criticism of Republicans

  • Boehner expresses disdain for certain leading Republicans, attributing the rise of this faction to the 2010 Tea Party movement.
  • He criticizes figures like Jim Jordan, Ted Cruz, and Mark Meadows for prioritizing disruption over governance.
ANECDOTE

Boehner's Golf Anecdote

  • John Boehner recounts a golf outing with Donald Trump before his presidency.
  • Trump's treatment of a staffer revealed his character to Boehner.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app