The Rest Is Politics 463. Question Time: How Truth Became Optional In Trump’s America
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Oct 30, 2025 The hosts dive into Trump's potential third term and ponder the seriousness of his intentions. They discuss the erosion of institutional norms and whether America is heading toward civil war. Highlights include the rise of grassroots campaigns like Zoraida Mamdani's and how the media influenced Trump's ascendancy. The conversation shifts to local politics, emphasizing the importance of tangible issues for rural communities. They also touch on mental health narratives, showcasing how personal stories can make a difference.
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Erosion Of Constitutional Norms
- Trump behaves as if he can do "whatever the hell he wants," eroding norms and constitutional limits.
- That mindset risks weaponizing institutions and normalizing authoritarian impulses in the US.
Big Lie Supporters Remain Powerful
- Senior Republicans who backed the 'big lie' remained powerful instead of being politically finished.
- That survival helps entrench Trump's influence across government and weakens institutional checks.
Justice Department Norms Undermined
- The DOJ's post-Watergate norms have been broken, making prosecutions appear political.
- Trump halted some probes for allies and accelerated cases against critics, weaponizing the justice system.
