The NPR Politics Podcast
How Trump Is Governing In His Second Term
Jan 27, 2025
This installment dives into President Trump's recent actions, including the controversial firing of independent inspectors general, raising alarm about governance and oversight. Discussions reveal the erosion of checks and balances and aggressive diplomatic maneuvers, like threats of trade wars and deportation flights to Colombia. The conversation also touches on Trump's unconventional foreign policy tactics, including using tariffs and social media as negotiation tools. Plus, scrutiny surrounding Trump's cabinet picks adds another layer of tension to the political landscape.
14:05
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Quick takeaways
- President Trump's dismissal of independent inspectors general signals a shift toward greater control and potentially undermined accountability in his second term.
- His aggressive approach to foreign policy, exemplified by trade threats against Colombia, reflects a departure from traditional diplomatic methods and emphasizes personal style.
Deep dives
Mass Firings of Inspectors General
Firing 17 independent inspectors general marked a significant shift in Trump's approach to governance during his second term. These inspectors, whose roles are to investigate government waste, fraud, and abuse, were abruptly dismissed via email, which sparked immediate discussion among those affected. Many of these inspectors had served long terms, with some appointed during the previous Trump administration, making their dismissal particularly eye-catching. This action raises questions about the independence of such positions and the intentions behind replacing them, with concerns about Trump wanting personnel that fully align with his administration.
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