cover of episode Tom Nichols: This Is What They Want

Tom Nichols: This Is What They Want

2024/11/7
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The Bulwark Podcast

Key Insights

Why did Trump win the election according to Tom Nichols?

Trump won because a significant portion of the American people have become like him, identifying with his style and approach, making him the preferred choice.

What does Tom Nichols think about the Democrats' performance in the election?

Nichols believes the Democrats failed to effectively communicate their policies and care for the concerns of a large segment of the population, leading to their loss.

How does Tom Nichols view the role of the media in covering Trump?

Nichols argues that the media should not normalize Trump's actions and should continue to cover his administration critically to maintain accountability.

What is Tom Nichols' stance on Trump's potential economic policies?

Nichols suggests that while Trump may inherit a strong economy, he will likely take credit for it and then mismanage it through tariffs and other policies, leading to negative consequences.

Why does Tom Nichols believe the Democrats need to change their approach?

Nichols thinks the Democrats need to show more empathy and understanding towards working-class voters, avoiding policies and rhetoric that alienate them.

What does Tom Nichols think about the global implications of Trump's win?

Nichols believes that Trump's victory strengthens global authoritarian movements and weakens the global democratic coalition, as highlighted by comments from figures like Alexander Dugin.

How does Tom Nichols feel about the future of American democracy after Trump's win?

Nichols is torn between the need to resist Trump's policies and the idea that letting voters experience unfiltered Trumpism might ultimately be necessary to restore equilibrium.

What advice does Tom Nichols give to those feeling anxious after the election?

Nichols advises staying engaged but not obsessed, supporting journalism that holds the administration accountable, and avoiding constant media consumption to maintain mental health.

Chapters

Tom Nichols and Tim Miller discuss how to approach the next four years under Trump's presidency, emphasizing the need to hold the administration accountable while maintaining composure.
  • 51% of the American people voted for Trump, indicating a significant portion of the population supports his policies.
  • The focus should be on criticizing and discussing Trump's administration rather than despairing.
  • The goal is to prevent Trump from leading the country into a global conflict.

Shownotes Transcript

The American people made their choice, and the fight to preserve the global democratic coalition against the global authoritarian movement continues. But maybe letting those voters see unadulterated Trumpism in the White House, without the baby bumpers—at least for a little while—is how we save America. Plus, the price of eggs v fascism, and Trump is going to inherit a great economy and take credit for it. 

Tom Nichols joins Tim Miller.

show notes Tom's most recent Atlantic Daily newsletter) Derek Thompson's piece mentioned by Tim (gifted)) Nick Catoggio's piece )