Best of the Spectator Americano: has Trump already become President?
Dec 13, 2024
Freddy Gray chats with Jacob Heilbrunn, Senior Editor of National Interest, about the political landscape heading into 2024. They dissect why Trump feels like the de facto President and question if a stronger Democratic contender could have challenged him. The duo dives into the potential implications of Trump's future cabinet choices, touching on how they could disrupt established agencies. Heilbrunn also highlights the Republican Party’s internal struggles with economic policies and critiques past protectionist moves while analyzing Trump’s impact on foreign relations.
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Biden's Betrayal
- Biden likely felt betrayed by the Democratic Party for their lack of support for his second term.
- Some Democrats believe a different candidate could have beaten Trump.
Trump's Political Instincts
- Trump's campaigning skills are underestimated; his McDonald's visit was a strategic success.
- He possesses a natural political instinct unseen in a US president for a century.
Cabinet Picks and Terrorism
- Trump's cabinet picks, like Kash Patel for the FBI, suggest a focus on restructuring agencies.
- Heilbrunn worries this approach, especially sidelining the CIA, increases the risk of terrorist attacks.