The Daily Beast Podcast Why Trump's Blatant Corruption Hurts Us All: Reich
Sep 25, 2025
Robert Reich, former U.S. Secretary of Labor and co-founder of Inequality Media, joins to discuss the alarming slide towards authoritarianism in the U.S. He reveals how Trump distorts economic data and corrupts markets, emphasizing the role of billionaire enablers. Reich criticizes the cowardice of corporate leaders and urges citizens to step up where elites fail. He also highlights the vital role of Gen Z activism and calls for coordinated action to combat tyranny, all while reflecting on the erosion of constitutional freedoms and the need for collective mobilization.
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Demand Stronger Crypto Oversight
- Reich says the SEC and CFTC should police crypto, but current leadership is compromised by industry ties.
- He warns voters and regulators to demand stronger oversight and avoid regulatory capture.
Democratic Safeguards Are Under Strain
- Reich's primary worry is loss of constitutional rights and the erosion of checks on a rogue government.
- He says courts are strained and the Supreme Court has been permissive toward presidential overreach.
Leadership Silence Enables Authoritarianism
- Reich criticizes a leadership class that fears speaking up, from media chiefs to university presidents and CEOs.
- He says their silence enables authoritarianism by prioritizing institutional survival over civic duty.
