Rev Left Radio [BEST OF 2025] From Reagan to Trump: Neoliberalism, Class War, and American Decadence
Jan 7, 2026
Gianni Paul, a dedicated public high school social studies teacher and creator of The People's Classroom, shares his insights on the historical roots of America’s present crises. He discusses how neoliberalism arose from the 1970s crises and traces its evolution through figures like Reagan and Trump. They explore topics such as the dismantling of unions, cultural counterattacks, and the ongoing consequences of anti-communism. Paul argues that understanding this history is crucial for addressing today’s issues, raising the question of whether real transformation can emerge in the U.S. or elsewhere.
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Neoliberalism Defined As Corporate Freedom
- Neoliberalism applies classical liberal individual freedom to corporations, making profit the primary goal.
- It rejects government regulation and reframes social goods as market opportunities.
Powell Memo Laid The Groundwork
- The Powell Memorandum coordinated the wealthy to seize cultural and political institutions.
- Reagan enacted those recommendations, making neoliberalism a sustained class project.
Liberal Failure Enables Reaction
- Carter and Reagan complemented each other: moderate failures enabled harsher neoliberal advances.
- Breaks promised by reformist presidents often produce reactionary consolidations.
