Inside Trump's Head How Trump’s Insurrection Act Threat is Backfiring
22 snips
Jan 18, 2026 
Michael Wolff, an astute author and political commentator, joins Joanna Coles to dissect Trump’s provocative use of the Insurrection Act and its implications. They explore Minneapolis as a focal point for conflict, critique the administration's use of ICE, and question the effectiveness of the Democratic response. Wolff argues Trump thrives on drama and distraction, while discussing the absence of leaders like Obama and Bush during this crisis. Their conversation unveils the strategic chaos shaping Trump’s presidency and its impact on American governance.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Minneapolis As Political Ground Zero
- Michael Wolff argues Minneapolis is 'ground zero' because MAGA treats clashes with leftist movements as identity-defining conflicts.
- He says the administration weaponizes conflict and refuses to back down, escalating drama instead of mollifying crises.
Absolute Immunity As Power Consolidation
- Wolff highlights the administration's push for 'absolute immunity' for ICE as a power grab that removes recourse for citizens.
- He frames this as part of a wider pattern: deny wrongdoing, then amplify authority rather than apologize.
Conflict As Political Strategy
- Conflict itself becomes the administration's political weapon, even when public opinion sees them as wrong.
- Wolff warns they will escalate (e.g., Insurrection Act threats) to shift headlines away from damaging stories.