The Rest Is Politics: Leading 119. Tommy Vietor: How Democrats can fight Trump
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Feb 3, 2025 
Tommy Vietor, an American political commentator and former Obama speechwriter, dives into the intricacies of American politics today. He reflects on Barack Obama’s path to the presidency and examines Hillary Clinton's critical error in 2016. The conversation tackles the influence of misinformation and the challenges for Democrats against Donald Trump. They discuss the need for a strong liberal response and highlight the importance of effective messaging in navigating the evolving political landscape as the 2024 elections approach.
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Vietor Joins Obama
- Tommy Vietor turned down a job on John Kerry's presidential campaign to work for Obama.
- He was drawn to Obama's book and excited about his vision.
Obama's Compass
- Obama's book, "Dreams from My Father," provided insight into his values and beliefs.
- This personal compass guided his decision-making throughout his presidency.
Afghanistan Surge Mistake
- Sending more troops to Afghanistan in 2009 was a mistake, influenced by the Pentagon.
- Joe Biden's counterterrorism approach might have been more effective.
