Impolitic with John Heilemann Andrew Sullivan: Trump as King, State Terror Tactics & The Anti-Trans Backlash
13 snips
Jul 7, 2025 
Andrew Sullivan, the former editor of The New Republic and a pioneering voice in LGBTQ+ advocacy, joins to discuss the current political landscape. He describes Trump more as a wannabe monarch than a dictator, warning of authoritarian tactics. Sullivan critiques the gay rights movement's shift towards trans rights and reflects on the complexities of LGBTQ+ identity. He also shares his love for the Pet Shop Boys, emphasizing the cultural significance of their song 'Being Boring' against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis. The conversation is a captivating blend of politics, identity, and nostalgia.
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Republican Fiscal Policy Unchanged
- The Republican Party remains fiscally regressive despite some policy shifts.
- Trump's arbitrary opposition to renewables shows rule by personal whim rather than deliberation.
Immigration Policy and State Terror
- Biden admitted more people than any US period, creating political backlash.
- Current deportation tactics resemble state terror, lacking due process and humane standards.
Transparency in Law Enforcement
- State officers must never wear masks to maintain transparency and accountability.
- People who lack courage to reveal their identities should avoid public demonstrations.
