In the National Interest

The Sorcerer's Apprentice? American Politics from Buckley to Trump (w/ Sam Tanenhaus)

Jun 26, 2025
Sam Tanenhaus, former editor of The New York Times Book Review and author of the upcoming biography on William F. Buckley, dives into the currents shaping American politics. He discusses how Buckley’s strategies resonate in today’s political landscape and the impact of outsider campaigns. The conversation highlights the cultural backlash seen in Trump’s rise and critiques the media's portrayal of ideologies. The dialogue also touches on voter dynamics, the challenges of truth in politics, and the evolving nature of conservative thought.
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ANECDOTE

Buckley and Modern Outsiders

  • William F. Buckley Jr. ran an outsider campaign for New York mayor, putting together surprising coalitions across white ethnic groups.
  • Alexis Ocasio-Cortez's campaign also shows outsider tactics and coalition-building in contemporary politics.
INSIGHT

Evolution of Democratic Coalitions

  • The Democratic Party's core strength has been black voters, but in recent times, some black voters have taken conservative stances.
  • New York's mayoral race reveals racial and class dynamics reshaping political coalitions and backlash politics.
INSIGHT

Populism and Political Authenticity

  • Trump's base may expect emotional authenticity more than policy consistency, reflecting a shift in voter priorities.
  • Both left and right populist waves reflect widespread discontent with established elites and politics.
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