Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast Bruce Shapiro's America: Trump's inauguration
Jan 21, 2025
In this discussion, Bruce Shapiro, a contributing editor for The Nation and expert on global politics, delves into the implications of Trump's Inauguration Day. He analyzes the stark shift from populism to wealth dominance in American politics and critiques the aggressive governing style that impacts marginalized communities. Shapiro also discusses the controversial deployment of military forces, the intricacies of presidential power, and Trump's unique blend of political strategy intertwined with his character, shedding light on the evolving landscape of U.S. governance.
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Oligarchy, Not Populism
- Trump's inauguration was less of a populist moment and more of a coronation of an oligarchy.
- He was surrounded by the world's richest people, signaling a different regime.
Broken Promises
- Trump's promise to smash the elites was typical of authoritarian populists.
- His actions, including pardoning January 6th rioters, point to a concentration of power.
Weariness and Power
- Trump's weariness suggests he's bored with political posturing.
- His focus has shifted to the raw exercise of power through executive orders.