Undercurrents
Tevi Troy: Joe Biden’s final weeks are dangerous for America
Dec 9, 2024
Tevi Troy, a presidential historian and author who served under George W. Bush, dives into the critical last weeks of Joe Biden's presidency. He discusses Biden's strategies to solidify his legacy while creating obstacles for Trump. Troy touches on the risks of a lame duck presidency, including Biden's controversial pardons and foreign policy actions regarding Ukraine and Israel. He also reflects on historical transitions and the importance of bureaucratic maneuvers during this politically charged period.
25:02
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Quick takeaways
- Biden's lame duck period showcases a unique leveraging of power through controversial decisions like pardons and sanctions to cement his legacy.
- Despite the opportunities for bold actions, Biden risks public backlash with initiatives that may overreach, complicating his transition and future political landscape.
Deep dives
Biden's Strategic Use of a Lame Duck Presidency
The period of a lame duck presidency often allows for a unique leveraging of power, as seen in Biden's recent actions. He has engaged in significant moves such as the controversial pardon of Hunter Biden and sanctions against certain Israeli officials, which reflect an assertive approach to cementing his legacy as he prepares to transition power. Historically, this phase can be seen as a time when presidents take risks with decisions they would not pursue in the earlier stages of their term due to political ramifications. This trend highlights how lame duck presidents might feel liberated to make decisions that could have lasting implications, whether popular or contentious.
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