Susan B. Glasser, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for her political insights, and Ian Millhiser, Vox's legal correspondent focusing on the Supreme Court, delve into the shifting political landscape surrounding Donald Trump's second inauguration. They discuss how this inauguration starkly contrasts with the first, reflecting on political engagement and the evolving influence of Trumpism. Millhiser also highlights a crucial Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity, revealing its implications for executive power and potential abuse in future administrations.
The 2025 inauguration highlights a shift in public sentiment, with reduced attendance and excitement compared to 2016, indicating evolving political engagement.
A recent Supreme Court ruling providing Trump with substantial legal immunity raises serious concerns about the potential for unchecked presidential power.
Deep dives
A Stark Contrast in Inaugural Atmosphere
The 2025 inauguration is marked by a significant contrast to the 2016 event, highlighting a shift in public sentiment and attendance. In 2016, the atmosphere was filled with apprehension and uncertainty, as evidenced by George W. Bush’s candid remark to Hillary Clinton, describing the inauguration as 'weird'. This year, the lack of a large public presence and excitement raises questions about the future of Trump's presidency and the path of the Republican Party. The absence of major protests or a unified resistance indicates a normalization of Trump's political presence, drawing attention to how public engagement has evolved over the years.
Corporate Support and Political Normalization
A noticeable change in corporate support for Trump is evident as numerous blue-chip companies and influential CEOs have contributed significant funds to his inaugural committee. Figures like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and major auto manufacturers have pledged million-dollar donations, signaling a shift from previous disapproval to a more accepting stance towards Trumpism. This reflects a broader acceptance of Trump’s influence and a recognition that he plays a central role in contemporary American politics. The alignment between corporate interests and Trump's agenda underscores the idea that his presidency is now viewed as the new norm, compelling businesses to adapt accordingly.
Legal Protections for Presidential Actions
The recent Supreme Court ruling has granted Donald Trump substantial legal protections, allowing him to act with a high degree of immunity while in office. The decision creates three categories of immunity for presidential actions—total immunity for constitutional powers, presumptive immunity for actions tied to presidential duties, and limited liability for personal criminal actions. This ruling raises concerns about the potential for unchecked presidential power, especially if Trump were to misuse his authority. The lack of significant legal consequences for presidential misconduct challenges the foundational principles of accountability within the government, igniting a debate over the implications for future administrations.
The New Yorker’s Susan B. Glasser says Donald Trump’s second inauguration is very different from his first. Vox’s Ian Millhiser explains how the Supreme Court’s ruling on presidential immunity has changed executive power.
This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh and Avishay Artsy, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram and Noel King.
Salesmen on Independence Ave in Washington, DC hawking Confederate flags and flags celebrating the 47th president, Donald J. Trump, on his Inauguration Day 2025.