Peter Baker & Susan Glasser: Moscow on the Potomac
Mar 31, 2025
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Peter Baker, a New York Times reporter, and Susan Glasser, a staff writer for The New Yorker, dive into the chaos of Trump's second term. They discuss the national security implications of SignalGate and the survival odds for embattled officials. The duo reflects on the alarming parallels between Trump's Washington and early Putin-era Moscow. They also analyze the GOP's shifting dynamics, highlighting the implications of political decisions and accountability amidst ongoing turmoil.
The chaotic nature of Trump's second term is exemplified by events like SignalGate, raising concerns about long-term political implications.
The erosion of legal accountability in the Trump administration reflects troubling parallels with authoritarian regimes across the globe.
The shifting media landscape complicates reporters' ability to focus on significant stories, ultimately impacting public discourse and perception.
Deep dives
Winter Style and Comfort
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The Unfolding Drama of Trump 2.0
The discussion navigates the chaotic landscape of Donald Trump's second term, marked by a flurry of executive actions and controversial policy proposals. The concept of 'flooding the zone' is introduced, highlighting the administration's approach to maintaining media focus while dominating the political narrative. A significant event mentioned is SignalGate, which momentarily captured the political spotlight and resembles the all-consuming stories typical of earlier political climates. The impact of these developments raises questions about the long-term implications for Trump's administration and the broader political arena.
Media's Role in Political Spectacles
The conversation touches on the dynamic between the media and the Trump administration, with hosts noting how previously dominant political stories can fade amidst a barrage of news. The panel considers the unique challenges faced by reporters tasked with covering the ever-shifting landscape of Trump 2.0. They reflect on the changing media environment, where intense scrutiny of individual stories often gives way to a cacophony of competing narratives. The ability of the media to maintain focus on significant issues, such as SignalGate, ultimately shapes public discourse.
Legal and Ethical Dilemmas
A pressing concern is introduced regarding the potential legal implications surrounding the Trump administration's actions, particularly in relation to classified information and national security. The response from Pam Bondi of the Justice Department raises eyebrows, as it reflects a dismissive attitude toward serious allegations. The panel discusses how traditional boundaries of legal accountability appear to erode under the current administration, raising fears about the implications for the rule of law. This erosion creates a concerning trend that commentators liken to authoritarian regimes where legal norms are disregarded.
Echoes of Authoritarianism
The discussion culminates in reflections on the overall trajectory of American democracy, with parallels drawn to the authoritarian practices observed in other nations. The panelists highlight a chilling atmosphere within the U.S. political landscape, marked by increasing fear among public figures and everyday citizens alike. These fears are exacerbated by commentary suggesting the normalization of extreme rhetoric and actions that undermine democratic institutions. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the urgent need for vigilance and recognition of warning signs that could threaten the integrity of American democracy.
The Bogie and Bacall of Beltway journalistic power couples — Peter Baker of the New York Times and Susan Glasser of The New Yorker — return to the show to discuss the fallout from the first true crisis of Donald Trump’s second term and an array of ongoing controversies embroiling the new administration. Peter and Susan explain why, despite the serious national security implications of Signalgate and the long knives being out for both Pete Hegseth and Michael Waltz, there’s a decent chance that both will keep their jobs; Steve Witkoff is entirely out of his depth serving as Trump’s envoy to Russia in the effort to end the war in Ukraine; and the decision to nix Elise Stefanik’s bid to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nation is a clear sign that the GOP's political standing is increasingly imperiled. Peter and Susan also reflect on the myriad unnerving ways in which Trump’s Washington reminds them of Moscow 25 years ago, when both were based there covering the dawn of the Putin era.
