

Steve Bannon’s Battle for the Soul of MAGA
394 snips Jul 1, 2025
Jeremy W. Peters, a national reporter for The New York Times, joins Steve Bannon, former chief strategist for Donald Trump. They dive into Bannon's intense concerns over threats within the MAGA movement, from foreign policy conflicts to the influence of tech billionaires. Bannon reflects on internal betrayals and the urgent need to preserve Trumpism. The discussion reveals sharp divides in conservative ideology, particularly regarding military actions and their clash with traditional Republican values, all while addressing ongoing challenges in rural America.
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First Meeting with Trump
- Steve Bannon first met Donald Trump in 2010 through a conservative activist friend.
- He was impressed by Trump's China knowledge and media personality, seeing potential in his populist appeal.
Three Pillars of MAGA
- Trump's 2016 speech on trade, immigration, and ending stupid wars resonated powerfully with the audience.
- These themes became the three pillars of the MAGA movement's appeal to working-class voters.
Ending Forever Wars Resonates
- Trump's promise to end 'stupid wars' helped him connect deeply with working-class Americans.
- These voters felt burdened by foreign conflicts and sought a leader who would change that.