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The Bunker
How did grifters like Trump take over the GOP?
Sep 25, 2024
Joe Conason, an insightful author known for his sharp critiques of grifters in politics, dives into the financial motivations behind Trump and his allies’ rise in the GOP. He connects the grifting culture to historical events dating back to the 1950s. The discussion also covers Mitt Romney's complicated legacy and the influence of the Heritage Foundation on modern conservatism. Conason warns of the uncertain future for the Republican Party post-Trump and the need for a strategic overhaul in the face of internal conflicts.
35:51
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Quick takeaways
- The historical roots of grifting in American conservatism showcase a long-term trend of exploitation, beginning with figures like Roy Cohn and Donald Trump.
- The upcoming election poses a pivotal moment for the GOP, potentially leading to either introspection and reform or further fragmentation among factions.
Deep dives
The Origins of Grifting in American Conservatism
The discussion traces the roots of grifting within the American conservative movement, starting from the 1950s with figures like Roy Cohn, who was a close associate of Senator Joseph McCarthy. Cohn's unscrupulous tactics and his eventual mentorship of Donald Trump illustrate a long-standing trend of moral ambiguity in conservatism. This foundational period set a tone for exploiting fears, particularly around communism, which enabled grifters to thrive by convincing supporters to part with their money based on fabricated threats. Consequently, the culture of impunity that allowed these deceivers to operate continues to permeate contemporary conservative dynamics.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode