Nicholas F. Jacobs

Nicholas Jacobs, a Colby College professor specializing in American political institutions, and Sidney Milkis from the University of Virginia, focus on the complexities of the Trump administration's approach to the administrative state. They discuss whether Trump is truly dismantling governmental structures or redirecting their power for conservative goals. The conversation touches on the rise of 'Trumpification' within the Republican Party, ideological tensions, and the evolving dynamics of presidential power in today's polarized political landscape.

Nicholas Jacobs and Sidney M. Milkis delve into the complexities of presidentialism in their new book. Milkis, a political science professor at the University of Virginia, and Jacobs, an associate professor at Colby College, discuss how the expansion of presidential power since the 1990s has transformed American governance. They explore the historical roots of this phenomenon in the social struggles of the 1960s and 70s, and how political movements and emergency rhetoric have shaped a new 'movement presidency.' Their insights into cultural symbolism reveal the evolving relationship between the presidency and American identity.

Prof. Nicholas F. Jacobs critiques 'White Rural Rage' for misusing data and promoting harmful stereotypes about rural voters. He challenges the book's claims about voter attitudes, conspiracy theories, and right-wing talking points. The discussion delves into the misinterpretation of data, misconceptions about rural America, and the importance of bridging divides for effective political solutions.