The Opinions America's Next Story: Bret Stephens
Dec 15, 2025
Bret Stephens, a New York Times Opinion columnist and conservative commentator, discusses the Republican Party's drift away from traditional conservatism. He shares his concerns about Trump’s impact, contrasting Reagan’s optimistic vision with today’s pessimism. The conversation highlights the need for sensible immigration policies and the importance of humility among Republicans. Stephens also speculates on future party dynamics, suggesting that centrists could bridge divides. He concludes with a hopeful perspective on democracy's resilience.
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Conservatism Has Turned Pessimistic
- Bret Stephens argues Trump-style conservatism is pessimistic and illiberal rather than traditionally conservative.
- He sees Trumpism as rooted in ethnicity/place and doubt about liberal democracy's future.
Trump Exploited Real Grievances
- Stephens says Trump tapped into real grievances about migration and institutional failure that conservatives ignored.
- He admits being blind to those complaints due to his cultural bubble and sought to understand them later.
Pair Strict Borders With Generous Legal Paths
- Stephens recommends combining strict border controls with generous legal immigration and asylum policies.
- He believes that mix would settle cultural tensions over migration.