The David Frum Show The Most Corrupt Presidency in American History
44 snips
May 7, 2025 
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for The Atlantic and expert on democracy, joins to discuss the startling corruption during the Trump presidency. They explore how authoritarian regimes undermine institutions and the personal cost of political polarization, particularly the loss of friendships. The conversation also touches on the erosion of trust in politics and the importance of reconciliation in fostering unity. Applebaum's insights into contemporary challenges illuminate the broader implications for democracy today.
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WWII's True Victory: Reconciliation
- The true victory of WWII was postwar reconciliation, not battlefield triumph.
- The US led building a peaceful world based on values, now at risk of being forgotten.
Corruption Links Authoritarian Regimes
- Authoritarian regimes prioritize stealing and hiding money to keep power.
- Rapid corruption usually precedes crackdowns on civil society and democracy.
Trump's Unique Presidential Corruption
- Trump's presidential term saw unprecedented self-enrichment.
- Foreign and party money funneled into his businesses reshaped American politics.
