The Focus Group Podcast: Season 5, Episode 2 – "Getting Out of Our Corners" (with Amanda Carpenter)
Release Date: January 25, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Focus Group Podcast, hosted by Sarah Longwell of The Bulwark, the conversation centers around the implications of Donald Trump’s second inaugural address and the challenges facing American democracy in what is described as the "second Trump administration." Joining Sarah is Amanda Carpenter, a respected writer, editor at Protect Democracy, and author of Gaslighting America: Why We Love It When Trump Lies to Us. Together, they delve into focus group insights, voter sentiments, and strategic responses necessary to navigate the current political landscape.

Recapping Trump's Second Inaugural Address

The episode opens with Sarah Longwell and Amanda Carpenter analyzing Trump’s second inaugural address. Unlike his first term, where Trump’s presidency was characterized by unexpected theatrics and a "clown show" atmosphere, the second term is marked by a more serious and calculated approach.

Amanda Carpenter notes, “[...] this time, he's been very clear about how he intends to govern, and he's executing on that very quickly. Last time, there was much more of a spectacle. This time it's just far more serious.” (02:01)

Sarah Longwell compares Trump’s evolving competence to "the Velociraptors in Jurassic Park when they learn to turn the doorknobs," highlighting the initial unpredictability of his administration that has now transformed into a more deliberate and impactful governance style. (01:29)

Democratic Responses and Institutional Tensions

The discussion shifts to the Democratic Party's response to Trump’s presidency. Sarah expresses frustration with how Joe Biden handles interactions with Trump, particularly during the inauguration, where Biden’s attempt at normalcy clashes with Trump’s domineering presence.

Sarah observes, “[...] there's this constant tension between how out of the ordinary this is and the way that Democrats have warned about how dangerous Trump is...” (04:00) She criticizes Biden’s gestures of normalcy, such as a “big smile” and “fist bump,” which she feels undermine the Democratic stance on the perceived threat Trump poses to democracy.

Amanda Carpenter adds depth by pointing out the absence of influential women like Michelle Obama and Karen Pence at the inauguration, suggesting a silent protest against Trump’s policies and behavior. (05:35)

Focus Group Insights: Democrat Voters’ Perspectives

Sarah and Amanda share insights from focus groups composed of Democratic voters, revealing a mix of fear, resignation, and strategic uncertainty about confronting Trump’s administration.

Participant 1 expresses a resigned determination: “I’m just going to power through it. I don’t really have any faith in it. It’s kind of scary...” (07:51)

Participant 4 labels Trump a bully, predicting a continuation of divisive tactics and expressing concern over the institutionalization of such behaviors: “I think a lot of the stupid things that he’s doing will end up being permanent.” (10:59)

Sarah synthesizes these sentiments, identifying two primary reactions among Democrats: one of passive endurance and another advocating for more aggressive resistance. (12:21)

Strategies to Combat Trump’s MAGA Agenda

Amanda Carpenter emphasizes the necessity of proactive electoral competition and early organization to counteract Trump’s entrenched power.

She states, “The electoral competition [...] needs to begin now. [...] We have to organize around themes now, making sure that we don’t lose the playing field...” (17:46)

Carpenter warns against complacency, arguing that Trump’s influence is likely to persist through allies like J.D. Vance and Don Jr., and underscores the importance of building a robust Democratic media ecosystem and fan base to rival the MAGA movement. (18:53 - 21:43)

The Role of Communication and Leadership

The conversation delves into the importance of effective communication strategies to inspire and mobilize voters. Sarah highlights the need for Democrats to develop leaders who can generate enthusiasm and present a compelling alternative vision, rather than merely resisting Trump’s tactics.

Amanda Carpenter agrees, asserting that cultivating a passionate and engaged supporter base is crucial: “You have to have fans, right? People that want to listen to you.” (20:04)

They discuss the successes of figures like Barack Obama in uniting people through uplifting messages, contrasting this with the often cynical and fragmented approach of the current Democratic strategy. (23:18 - 23:53)

Voter Perspectives: Trump to Harris Voters

In a segment focusing on voters who switched support from Trump in 2020 to Harris in 2024, the podcast explores their reactions to Trump’s inaugural address and Biden’s subsequent actions, particularly the controversial pardons.

Participant 5 criticizes Trump’s rhetoric and accuses him of undermining democracy for the benefit of the wealthy elite: “[...] this is not a government of the people, by the people and for the people. This is a government of the rich and wealthy imposing their will...” (24:37)

Participant 6 expresses disillusionment with Biden’s pardons, viewing them as hypocritical and unethical: “[...] Biden didn’t lay the groundwork for Trump to do that. [...] I am against all of these preemptive pardons...” (43:26)

Sarah and Amanda discuss the moral and ethical implications of these actions, emphasizing how they erode trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.

Concluding Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Sarah and Amanda reflect on the overarching theme of protecting democracy against both overt and subtle threats. They stress the need for Democrats to not only criticize Trump’s actions but also to present and mobilize around a positive, inclusive vision for the future.

Amanda Carpenter concludes with a call to action: “We got to fight for and navigate everything around.” (32:53)

Sarah echoes the urgency, highlighting the complexity of governing in such polarized times and the critical need for strategic leadership and unwavering commitment to democratic principles.

Notable Quotes

• Amanda Carpenter (02:01): “This time, he's been very clear about how he intends to govern, and he's executing on that very quickly.”

• Sarah Longwell (04:00): “Democrats have no idea how to handle this guy being trapped between their belief that he is a unique threat to the country, and they have to demonstrate, like, normality of politics.”

• Focus Group Participant 1 (07:51): “I’m just going to power through it. I don’t really have any faith in it. It’s kind of scary.”

• Amanda Carpenter (17:46): “If you think this is going away on its own without someone showing a better alternative, you are sorely mistaken.”

• Sarah Longwell (23:18): “We have to generate excitement.”

• Amanda Carpenter (43:26): “The pardon abuse is rampant. It is probably the grossest abuse of power.”

This episode of The Focus Group Podcast provides a nuanced examination of the current political climate, the shifting strategies within the Democratic Party, and the complex emotions of voters navigating a potentially tumultuous second Trump term. Through in-depth analysis and firsthand voter insights, Sarah Longwell and Amanda Carpenter offer a sobering yet actionable perspective on safeguarding democracy in challenging times.