The Gray Area with Sean Illing Sam Sanders and Olivia Nuzzi on President Trump’s last days
Jan 14, 2021
Olivia Nuzzi, Washington correspondent for New York Magazine and a keen observer of the Trump White House, teams up with Sam Sanders, host of NPR's It’s Been a Minute. They delve into the chaotic dynamics during and after the Capitol insurrection, sharing personal stories that reveal the emotional toll on journalists. Nuzzi discusses the complexities of anonymous sourcing and how Trump activated rather than created chaos among his supporters. They also ponder the enduring impact of Trumpism on journalism and the GOP.
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Source Availability Shift
- Olivia Nuzzi's White House sources, including Rudy Giuliani, usually contact her.
- After the insurrection, she had to actively seek them out, finding many avoiding the President.
Predictable Surprise
- While the Capitol insurrection was predictable given Trump's rhetoric, the extent of delusion among his supporters was surprising.
- Many truly believed they could overturn the election, committing crimes while recording themselves.
Lynch Mob Mentality
- The Capitol mob resembled a lynch mob, with many present merely to watch.
- This passivity, enabling the violence of a few, is more chilling than universal fanaticism.