Victor Davis Hanson provides cultural and historical context for Donald Trump’s presidential victory and speculates on what the early days of the new administration may yield.
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Well said, as always. And good questions.
Victor, the cautious glee of NeverTrumpers isn’t mystifying for two reasons. First, the Republican landslide beyond the presidency took them by surprise. Second, the evidence of shared interests in the form of Trump’s candidate picks has softened their expectations that Trump is a Trojan horse for Democrat policies.
The habit of pouncing on every errant utterance and meeting to make an outsized proclamation that “Here, see! This is the real, monstrous, treacherous Trump!” continues apace. But many can’t help but hope when they listen to some of Trump’s advisors and Cabinet selections promote wise conservative policies.
I was never a NeverTrumper (and voted for him in the main election) but never trusted him either. My predictions of Trump’s interests were based on his life, rather than his words. I’m heartened by his choices so far, but will continue to be skeptical.
Mr Cooke asked an excellent question which should be explored further in other podcasts: Do the interests and priorities of newly elected representatives in the House and Senate (and state offices) mirror those of Trump? I continue to dismiss as hysteria the notion that Trump can “remake the party in his image”. Opposition within the party remains likely even if Trump serves with restraint. But are these new representatives different from last year’s Republicans? And will the legislative agenda promote shared interests before disagreements bring cooperation to a halt?
Great podcast, really enjoyed this episode!
Great analysis of Wikileaks. Wonderful.