Susan Glasser, a writer for The New Yorker and co-author of 'The Divider', dives into the tumultuous legacy of Donald Trump. She discusses the media's struggle with cowardice during his presidency and critiques how press freedoms were compromised. Glasser explores the chaos of Trump's economic policies, particularly his tariff strategies, and their global repercussions, especially with China. The conversation also delves into the potential consequences of a second Trump term, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement to counter authoritarian trends.
The podcast highlights the Republican Party's pervasive cowardice in confronting Trump's influence, driven by fear of electoral consequences and primary challenges.
It underscores the alarming failure of the press, particularly the Associated Press, to uphold journalistic integrity against Trump's assaults on their credibility.
The discussion critiques Trump's trade policies, revealing how his negotiation tactics lead to higher tariffs and significant disruptions in global markets.
Deep dives
Republican Cowardice and Trump's Influence
The podcast examines the pervasive cowardice within the Republican Party in the face of Donald Trump's rise to power. Many Republicans failed to unite against him early on, allowing Trump to dominate the party and enact increasingly controversial policies without significant pushback. This cowardice was motivated by fears of electoral repercussions, such as potential primary challenges endorsed by Trump. As Trump's influence extends beyond Republicans, various elites in other sectors, including media and technology, are also showcased as bending to his will, further illustrating a pervasive culture of fear and compliance.
Failures of the Press and the Associated Press Case
The podcast highlights a significant failure within the press, particularly the Associated Press, to stand up against Trump's attacks on journalistic integrity. This failure became evident when Trump dismissed the AP from White House events due to their refusal to adopt his preferred terminology for the Gulf of Mexico, showcasing a troubling precedent for press freedom. Despite the press’s longstanding role as a watchdog, this incident marks a concerning shift where media institutions appear reluctant to assert themselves against governmental overreach. The lack of solidarity among journalists during legal proceedings against this affront to press freedom signals a deeper crisis within journalistic responsibility.
Trump's Trade Policy and Its Consequences
The discussion addresses Trump's contentious trade policies, particularly his threats of high tariffs and their implications on global markets. Initially positioned to dominate trade negotiations, Trump's administration soon encountered resistance and backlash from various stakeholders when it disrupted established trading systems. As a result, his strategy shifted, demonstrating an avoidance of extreme policies yet still leading to higher tariffs as a consequence of ongoing escalations with China. This ongoing tension reveals the precarious nature of Trump's negotiation tactics, which, while attempting to showcase strength, often result in damaging economic repercussions.
Threats to the Rule of Law and Congressional Power
The podcast emphasizes the erosion of constitutional governance under Trump's administration, particularly regarding the role of Congress. Trump's unilateral actions and disregard for traditional checks and balances have left Congress largely powerless, failing to fulfill its fundamental responsibilities. Furthermore, the podcast suggests that the increasing concentration of power in the executive branch could undercut the long-standing principles that define American democracy, leading to a shift towards authoritarianism. This situation is mirrored in Trump's questioning of the foundational ideas about the U.S. being a government of laws rather than men.
Democratic Responses and Opportunities for Action
The conversation concludes with reflections on the Democratic Party's struggles to present a united front against Trump. Despite infighting and varying ideologies within the party, the underlying message emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and local political action. The podcast encourages listeners to become active participants in the democratic process, as elections still hold significant power for individuals. By fostering unity among civil society, Democrats and citizens alike can resist authoritarian impulses and uphold democratic values.
