Behind the News: Predicting Trump Policy w/ Alex Vitale & Anatol Lieven
Nov 20, 2024
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Anatol Lieven, Eurasia director at the Quincy Institute, and Alex Vitale, Professor of Sociology at Brooklyn College, dive into the unpredictable world of Trump's potential policies. They analyze the challenges of his foreign appointments and the implications for U.S.-China relations and military strategy. Vitale discusses how Trump's stance could influence crime rates and policing, pointing to historical trends and the role of organized retail theft. The conversation highlights the urgent need for community-based approaches amid rising tensions.
While uncertainties linger regarding Trump's foreign policy direction, early cabinet choices suggest continuity rather than significant change in diplomatic strategies.
Trump's administration may intensify aggressive policing and deportation efforts, posing serious ethical concerns and undermining community-focused safety initiatives.
Deep dives
Trump's Foreign Policy Predictions
The discussion about Trump's potential foreign policy reveals significant concerns regarding his cabinet appointments, which are seen as largely disappointing and unqualified. Notably, Trump's rejection of neoconservative figures like Pompeo and Haley indicates a possible shift within the Republican Party, favoring figures like Rubio, who historically take a hawkish stance on issues such as China, Venezuela, and Iran. This new administration could lead to a familiar continuity in foreign policy rather than a radical change, raising doubts about Trump's ability to forge effective diplomatic relationships. Experts predict that while there may be some aims at peace, particularly in Ukraine, the overall coherence and competence of this foreign policy team remains questionable at best.
The Mockery of Policing Policies
The podcast examines the implications of Trump's election on U.S. policing, suggesting that his administration may embolden police forces and exacerbate issues of police violence. With Trump expressing strong support for law enforcement, local departments might interpret this as a license to act more aggressively, potentially leading to an increase in abusive practices. As urban areas grapple with rising crime and insecurity, there is a concern that Trump's policies could undermine community-centered policing initiatives and progress made toward accountability. The discussion highlights the need for a more thoughtful approach to safety that emphasizes community investment over reliance on aggressive policing.
Immigration Policy and Deportations
Anticipating potential changes under Trump's administration, the podcast delves into the complexities of immigration enforcement, particularly focusing on the likelihood of increased deportations. Although Trump's ambitions to deport millions face practical limitations, there is an expectation of a ramp-up in deportation efforts targeting specific cities and industries that did not support him. These actions may lead to expanded immigrant detention facilities and informal camps, raising serious ethical and constitutional concerns. Experts emphasize the importance of community resistance and grassroots mobilization against these policies, suggesting that direct action may be necessary to push back on aggressive deportation strategies.
The Future of Crime and Punishment
The exploration of crime trends indicates that although there was a noticeable uptick during the pandemic, crime rates have significantly decreased in recent times. The podcast discusses the perception of crime—how media narratives can amplify fears around crime waves, particularly focusing on the sensationalism surrounding retail theft. It also critiques the backlash against progressive prosecutors, arguing that the movement failed to build a strong foundation within communities most affected by crime, ultimately leading to vulnerability against political counter-movements. The dialogue stresses the importance of integrating community-based safety strategies rather than merely focusing on punitive measures as a holistic approach to addressing crime.
Anatol Lieven tries to divine a Trump foreign policy out of unreliable rhetoric and early appointments. Alex Vitale tries similar on Trump and criminal justice.
Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online: https://www.leftbusinessobserver.com/radio.html
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