The Political Scene | The New Yorker Trump Has Grabbed Emergency Powers. How Will He Use Them?
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Sep 6, 2025 Explore the chaos of American politics post-Trump, including alarming moves like tariffs and military presence in Washington, D.C. Delve into the normalization of emergency powers and its implications for democracy. The hosts discuss partisan challenges, the reaction of governors to federal policies, and the impact on civil society. Amid rising inflation and political turmoil, humor mixes with serious reflections on power dynamics as the midterms approach. The podcast wraps with a heartfelt goodbye to a cherished team member.
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Troops In The Streets Are Largely Theatrical
- The National Guard presence in Washington is largely performative and targeted to tourist areas, not high-crime neighborhoods.
- Susan, Jane, and Evan argue this show of force normalizes soldiers in streets and intimidates civilians.
Intimidation Explains Public Compliance
- Visible soldiers carrying weapons of war create fear and discourage ordinary civic interactions like taking photos.
- Jane warns that intimidation helps explain why populations tolerate paramilitary forces.
Changing Names Creates Permanent War Posture
- Renaming Defense to War signals a permanent wartime posture and justifies chronic emergency powers.
- Evan says emergencies operate as holidays from normal checks and balances, enabling unexpected uses of power.