cover of episode Trump’s Authoritarian Appointments

Trump’s Authoritarian Appointments

2024/11/15
logo of podcast The Lincoln Project

The Lincoln Project

Key Insights

Why did Trump appoint Matt Gaetz as Attorney General?

Trump wants Gaetz to execute a revenge plan, investigating those he believes were involved in the 'deep state Russia story' and dismantling the independence of the Department of Justice.

Why is Pete Hegseth's appointment as Secretary of Defense concerning?

Hegseth lacks the necessary sophistication and experience for the complex role, focusing on eliminating 'wokeness' in the military rather than addressing existential threats like China, Iran, and Russia.

Why is Tulsi Gabbard's nomination as Director of National Intelligence dangerous?

Gabbard is a pro-Russia, pro-Putin figure who has opposed sanctions on Russia and supported Syria's use of chemical weapons, posing a significant risk to U.S. national security.

What does Trump's approach to appointing his cabinet indicate about his intentions?

Trump's appointments signal a move towards authoritarianism and oligarchy, reshaping the country to fit his vision, with a focus on revenge and dismantling established institutions.

Why is the fight against Trump's agenda still crucial despite his electoral victory?

The fight is essential to prevent the erosion of democratic norms and institutions, protect against authoritarian policies, and ensure the country remains worth fighting for.

Chapters

Rick Wilson discusses Trump's recent cabinet appointments, focusing on Matt Gaetz as Attorney General and Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, highlighting their lack of qualifications and the potential dangers they pose to national security.
  • Matt Gaetz, appointed as Attorney General, is under investigation for sex trafficking and has a history of legal issues.
  • Pete Hegseth, appointed as Secretary of Defense, lacks the necessary experience and qualifications for the role.

Shownotes Transcript

This week there is a big elephant in the room that we must start talking about: Defeat. Host Rick Wilson stresses the importance of continuing to fight the corruption of Trump and his allies despite the electoral defeat. As the groundwork for authoritarianism is already being laid with Trump’s most recent cabinet selections, Rick reminds listeners who some of these people, such as Matt Gaetz and Tulsi Gabbard, really are.

Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com).

Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln).

And please subscribe, rate and review this podcast, thank you!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices)