Morning Wire Podcast Summary Episode: Biden to Trump: A Tale of Two Presidencies | 1.19.25
Release Date: January 19, 2025
Hosts: John Bickley and Georgia Howe
Guest: Jarrett Stepman, Author of War on the Conspiracy to Rewrite America's Past*

Introduction

In this pivotal episode of Morning Wire, Daily Wire Editor-in-Chief John Bickley and co-host Georgia Howe engage in a comprehensive discussion with historian Jarrett Stepman. The conversation delves into the contrasting legacies of President Joe Biden and the anticipated trajectory of President Donald Trump's second term. The episode offers an in-depth analysis of Biden's administration, the unique nature of Trump's non-consecutive presidency, and the potential policies and impacts of Trump's leadership moving forward.

Postmortem on Biden's Presidency

Farewell Address Insights

Jarrett Stepman opens the discussion by examining Joe Biden's farewell address, delivered on a quiet Wednesday evening. He describes the speech as "low energy" and akin to a "Friday night news dump," suggesting it lacked the gravitas typically associated with presidential farewells. Stepman remarks, "I felt that it was very low energy, which I think defined especially the last part of his presidency" (01:34).

Legacy of Biden: Institutionalism and Leadership Challenges

Stepman contends that Biden's legacy will be marked by his representation of "crumbling institutions" and his image as a "frail man" struggling to lead effectively. He highlights Biden's administration's struggles with inflation and the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan as emblematic of his tenure. Stepman asserts, "His legacy was of an institutionalist and institutions that were losing favor from the American people and going in a direction that Americans didn't want" (02:31).

Furthermore, Stepman critiques Biden's inability to present a strong, centralized leadership during critical moments, noting the lack of accountability within the executive branch. He observes, "Nobody at the top seemed to have lost their job and business continued on as usual" (02:31).

Transition to Trump's Second Term

Historical Uniqueness of Trump's Non-Consecutive Presidency

The discussion shifts to Donald Trump's unprecedented return to the White House, making him the second non-consecutive president in U.S. history after Grover Cleveland. Stepman believes this unique scenario will positively influence Trump's ability to govern, as Trump enters his second term with a stronger mandate and greater experience. He states, "The fact that he triumphed, given those challenging circumstances, makes this a unique return to the White House" (04:53).

Impact of Resistance Movement

Addressing the robust resistance Trump faced during his first term, Stepman anticipates a significantly diminished opposition in his second term. He explains, "I think it's going to be much more marginalized in comparison to that time again, because Trump comes in with so much more of a mandate this time around" (07:21). This reduced resistance, coupled with Trump's strategic removal of opposing bureaucrats through mechanisms like Schedule F, is expected to consolidate his administration's power and streamline policy implementation.

Trump's Expected Policies and Actions

Bureaucratic Restructuring and Immigration Policies

Stepman predicts that Trump will prioritize dismantling bureaucratic resistance and reinstating stringent immigration policies. He anticipates the restoration of the "remain in Mexico" policy and the reimplementation of border security measures that were faltering under Biden's administration. Stepman notes, "He’s going to use a lot of tools, including something called Schedule F, to remove recalcitrant bureaucrats" (07:21) and *"I think he’s gonna hit the ground running faster this time"` (08:43).

Tax Cuts and Legislative Reversals

In the first 100 days, Trump is expected to push for the reimplementation of tax cuts from his previous administration and work with Congress to undo Biden's executive decisions, particularly those related to gender definitions under Title IX. Stepman emphasizes, "I think his first term, his first 100 days in office will also reimplement tax cuts from his first administration" (08:43).

Cabinet Appointments and Institutional Critique

Trump's Cabinet picks are characterized by Stepman as "outsiders" who critique existing institutions. For example, appointing Pete Hegseth to the Department of Defense and Cash Patel to the FBI signifies a departure from traditional, establishment figures. Stepman remarks, "If it's somebody like Pete Hegseth at the Defense Department... he comes in as a man who has experience, is just a regular soldier criticizing the woke DEI direction of the agency" (10:03).

Legacy Building Actions

Foreign Policy Emphasis

Contrary to the focus on domestic policies, Stepman highlights Trump's potential to redefine U.S. foreign policy. Anticipated actions include strategic acquisitions like Greenland, revisiting the Panama Canal, and reestablishing doctrines reminiscent of the Monroe Doctrine. Stepman posits, "A big part of his legacy is actually going to be his foreign policy... he is going to create a more realist perspective in American foreign policy and focus on containing the threat of communist China" (11:33).

He also underscores Trump's efforts to broker peace in regions like the Middle East and mitigate conflicts involving Ukraine, aligning with his vision of preventing global catastrophes that could hinder America's resurgence. Stepman asserts, "Trump is going to make foreign policy a priority because I think the way that Trump looks at it... he must prevent any kind of global catastrophe" (11:33).

Containment of China and Global Stability

With the appointment of Marco Rubio to the State Department, Trump's administration is expected to take a firmer stance against China, perceived as a significant threat. Stepman believes this focus will be central to Trump's strategy to ensure America's dominant position on the global stage.

Conclusion: Potential Impact and Legacy

In wrapping up, Stepman acknowledges the immense challenges facing Trump as he seeks to "make America great again." He recognizes the historical significance of Trump's potential to either spearhead a revival or precipitate unforeseen consequences. Stepman concludes, "Trump is at a point in which he could have enormous impact over the trajectory of the United States and really the world" (13:08). The episode anticipates a transformative period in American politics, hinging on Trump's policies and leadership efficacy.

Notable Quotes

• Jarrett Stepman on Biden’s Farewell Address:
  "I felt that it was very low energy, which I think defined especially the last part of his presidency." (01:34)

• On Biden’s Legacy:
  "His legacy was of an institutionalist and institutions that were losing favor from the American people and going in a direction that Americans didn't want." (02:31)

• Regarding Trump's Unique Return:
  "The fact that he triumphed, given those challenging circumstances, makes this a unique return to the White House." (04:53)

• On the Diminished Resistance Against Trump:
  "I think it's going to be much more marginalized in comparison to that time again, because Trump comes in with so much more of a mandate this time around." (07:21)

• About Trump's Foreign Policy Focus:
  "Trump is going to make foreign policy a priority because I think the way that Trump looks at it... he must prevent any kind of global catastrophe." (11:33)

• On Trump's Potential Impact:
  "Trump is at a point in which he could have enormous impact over the trajectory of the United States and really the world." (13:08)

Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with anticipation surrounding Trump's inauguration and the immediate actions he is expected to take as he assumes office. John Bickley invites listeners to follow the Daily Wire's live coverage in D.C., emphasizing the significance of the upcoming administration's policies and their potential to reshape America's future.

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