The Bunker – News without the nonsense Make America Invade Again – What does Trump have in store for 2026?
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Jan 13, 2026 Dr. Casey Burgat, Legislative Affairs Program Director at George Washington University and author, delves into the chaotic landscape of Trump’s potential second term. He discusses military interventions, such as those in Venezuela, illustrating Trump’s view of presidential power. The conversation touches on the strain on NATO and the unpredictability that could alienate allies. Casey warns about the implications of Trump's rhetoric on democracy and the growing risk of political backlash as he prepares for the 2026 midterms.
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Presidency As Personal Steering Wheel
- Casey Burgat argues Trump interprets presidential power expansively, treating the office as his personal steering wheel.
- This explains interventions like the Venezuela operation as extensions of Trump's view of the presidency.
Allies Question U.S. Predictability
- World leaders now doubt U.S. reliability because Trump's statements and decisions change rapidly.
- That unpredictability incentivizes allies to coordinate without the U.S. or seek alternatives.
Dealmaking Explains Apparent Contradictions
- Trump's mix of retreating from institutions and aggressive interventions is internally consistent to him as dealmaking.
- That creates tension with wing of Republicans who expected an "America First" pullback from foreign adventures.
