Impolitic with John Heilemann Peter Baker & Susan Glasser: Moscow on the Potomac
10 snips
Mar 31, 2025 
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.
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SignalGate
- Pete Hegseth and Michael Waltz shared classified information via Signal, a messaging app.
- The incident, dubbed "SignalGate," became a major news story, drawing comedic commentary from late-night hosts.
Singular Focus
- SignalGate was the first singular focus in Trump's second term, unlike the usual flood of stories.
- The relatability of the incident, a texting mishap, contributed to its widespread attention.
Relatability and Denial
- The relatability of SignalGate, a texting mishap with classified information, made it resonate.
- The Trump White House's denial of the information's classification fueled the story.