Americano How authoritarian is Trump 2.0?
Sep 3, 2025
Nick Gillespie, Editor at Large for Reason, dives deep into the controversial figure of Trump 2.0. He questions if Trump's actions lean more towards authoritarianism or gangsterism, and critiques the weaponization of the Justice Department. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of presidential power and its constitutional ramifications. Additionally, they explore the significance of free speech, highlighting the Supreme Court's independence and the challenges it faces in both the US and the UK.
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Gangster-Not-Dictator Analogy
- Nick Gillespie compares Trump to a gangster like Tony Soprano rather than a classical dictator.
- He warns that a gangster-style presidency still concentrates power and is dangerous for republican institutions.
Federal Police Push Meets Judicial Pushback
- Gillespie argues federalizing law enforcement and deploying troops often lacked legal or factual justification.
- He notes courts have pushed back, and when courts rule clearly, Trump tends to retreat.
Demand A Reboot Of Lawfare
- Stop tit-for-tat weaponisation of justice by insisting law enforcement follow legal norms.
- Demand a reboot where both parties cease political prosecutions and respect constitutional limits.
