Podcast Summary: The New Yorker Radio Hour - "Donald Trump’s Reëlection, and America’s Future"

Release Date: November 8, 2024
Host: David Remnick
Guests: Susan Glasser, Jane Mayer, Evan Osnos
Production: WNYC Studios and The New Yorker

1. Introduction

In this episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour, host David Remnick engages with Washington correspondents Susan Glasser, Jane Mayer, and Evan Osnos to dissect the monumental re-election of Donald Trump. The conversation delves into the factors that contributed to Trump's victory, the transformation of the Republican Party, the challenges faced by the Democratic Party, and the broader implications for America's political landscape.

2. Trump's Re-Election: An Unexpected Outcome?

Susan Glasser opens the discussion by expressing her shock and the sense of the unprocessed magnitude of Trump's victory. She remarks on the radicalization of the Republican Party over the past eight years, highlighting how Trump's ability to resonate with not only his core base but also independents and low-frequency voters was underestimated.

"I do not admit to having processed this information. I feel like it's sitting in like a large undigested bolus." [02:18]

Evan Osnos adds that Trump's appeal stemmed from voicing the frustrations of economically disadvantaged individuals, despite criticisms of his authoritarian tendencies.

3. Transformation of the Republican Party

The guests discuss how the Republican Party has fundamentally changed under Trump's influence. Glasser points out that the party has become a "very different Republican Party" compared to the start of the Trump era.

Evan Osnos emphasizes Trump's strategic messaging that tapped into widespread sentiments of discontent and anti-incumbency, which were prevalent in the U.S. and globally.

"Anticipatory dread... we're not two days into the Donald Trump era but eight years." [02:18-03:00]

4. Democratic Party: Losing Key Demographics

David Remnick questions why the Democratic Party, particularly figures like Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, failed to address central issues such as economic inequality effectively.

Susan Glasser explains that the diminishing chances of upward economic mobility have eroded the Democratic Party's traditional appeal. She cites that the probability of a child out-earning their parents has halved since 1940, affecting all demographic groups.

"One in three people of color in this country voted for Donald Trump... a huge swing of Latino voters, something like north of 4 in 10 young voters." [07:43]

She also critiques Kamala Harris's campaign, suggesting that despite effective debating, Democrats misjudged the electorate's sentiments, leading to substantial losses among key voter blocs.

5. Judicial Appointments and Legal Implications

Jane Mayer touches upon the potential judicial appointments Trump might make, particularly focusing on replacing Supreme Court justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas. Evan Osnos predicts that Trump could significantly influence the Supreme Court's composition, potentially shaping it until 2045.

"This could be a Trump court until 2045." [22:21]

Susan Glasser warns about Trump's intentions to potentially use the Justice Department to prosecute political opponents, signaling a departure from democratic norms.

6. The Role of Oligarchs: Elon Musk's Influence

The discussion shifts to the involvement of billionaires like Elon Musk in politics. Susan Glasser points out the emerging oligarchic dynamics, where wealthy individuals wield substantial influence over both policy and profit.

"There is now going to be this gusher of influence and transaction and a complete fusion of policy and profit." [31:01]

7. Institutional Safeguards and Norms

Susan Glasser emphasizes the importance of institutional norms as safeguards against authoritarianism. She laments the erosion of these norms during Trump's first term and questions whether any influential figures remain who can counteract Trump's anti-democratic tendencies.

"Remember norms. There used to be norms. That was something Trump did violence to in his first term." [25:22]

Evan Osnos concurs, highlighting that these norms are based on post-Watergate principles and lack legal enforcement, making them vulnerable without active societal resistance.

8. Future Outlook: Authoritarianism vs. Democratic Resilience

Susan Glasser posits that Trump's actions will determine whether America veers towards authoritarianism or maintains its democratic foundations. She raises critical questions about potential crackdowns on political opponents, media suppression, and manipulation of judicial institutions.

"Will he weaponize the Justice Department? Will he transform the national security state into his personal and political fiefdoms?" [51:24]

David Remnick underscores the rarity of genuine dissident movements and the necessity for ordinary citizens to exhibit heroism in holding power accountable.

9. Voter Demographics and Identity Politics

The panel discusses the complex interplay between economic anxieties and identity politics. Susan Glasser notes that while economic hardship drove many voters towards Trump, cultural issues orchestrated by the GOP also played a significant role in swaying independent voters.

"Trump and his party's effective use of culture war issues to pry away independent voters." [40:51]

Evan Osnos adds that the Democratic Party faces internal divisions, particularly between economic populism and cultural progressivism, complicating their response to Trump's appeal.

10. Conclusion: Navigating a Pivotal Era

As the conversation wraps up, the correspondents reflect on the uncertainties ahead. They ponder whether Trump's administration will uphold democratic institutions or dismantle them, and how the Democratic Party will navigate its introspection and potential reforms.

David Remnick concludes with a call to action for the press and citizens to remain vigilant and hold power accountable.

"Our duty, our primary duty is to apply pressure on power truthfully, accurately, consistently and fearlessly." [52:05]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Susan Glasser [02:18]: "I do not admit to having processed this information. I feel like it's sitting in like a large undigested bolus."

• Evan Osnos [22:21]: "This could be a Trump court until 2045."

• Susan Glasser [25:22]: "Remember norms. There used to be norms. That was something Trump did violence to in his first term."

• David Remnick [52:05]: "Our duty, our primary duty is to apply pressure on power truthfully, accurately, consistently and fearlessly."

Final Thoughts

The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of Donald Trump's re-election, exploring its multifaceted impact on American politics. Through insightful discussions, the correspondents dissect the underlying causes of Trump's sustained appeal, the vulnerabilities within the Democratic Party, and the potential shifts in America's democratic institutions. The conversation serves as a crucial reflection on the state of American democracy and the vigilant efforts required to preserve its integrity in the face of evolving political challenges.