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365. Trump's Mafia World Order

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January 29, 2025

TLDR: Discussion between Rory and Alastair about possible early signs of fascism in the US, impact of Trump on America's soft power worldwide, and Alastair's admiration for Prince Harry and his tabloid battles.

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In the latest episode of The Rest Is Politics, Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell delve into critical socio-political issues surrounding Donald Trump's regime, the implications for American soft power, and discussions on contemporary figures like Prince Harry.

Early Warning Signs of Fascism in the U.S.

The episode begins with a discussion on potential fascism in America, prompted by a report from the American Holocaust Museum outlining 14 early warning signs:

  1. Powerful and continuing nationalism
  2. Disdain for human rights
  3. Identification of enemies as a unifying cause
  4. Supremacy of the military
  5. Rampant sexism
  6. Controlled media
  7. Obsession with national security
  8. Religion intertwined with government
  9. Corporate power protected
  10. Labor power suppressed
  11. Disdain for intellectuals and the arts
  12. Obsession with crime and punishment
  13. Rampant cronyism and corruption
  14. Fraudulent elections

Stewart and Campbell suggest that the Trump administration exhibits several of these characteristics, implying a shift towards authoritarianism.

Trump’s Unique Challenges and Comparisons to Historical Fascism

As the hosts analyze Trump's leadership style, they debate whether labeling him a fascist is accurate or oversimplistic. Campbell argues:

  • Trump shares traits with historical fascists but possesses unique aspects that could differentiate him, such as utilizing social media to manipulate public perception.
  • The hosts discuss Trump's authoritarian tendencies, asserting he undermines democratic principles and adjusts international relations to serve personal interests.

They also touch on comparisons with past authoritarian regimes, suggesting that Trump's actions could lead to parallels with the ideologies of Mussolini and Hitler.

The Fragility of American Soft Power

Key Points:

  • Trump's presidency has purportedly dealt a blow to America's global soft power, contributing to global instability.
  • The hosts discuss the implications of potential international military actions, including controversial suggestions about acquiring Greenland and altering how the U.S. approaches international assistance.
  • Several actions taken by Trump are perceived as undermining cooperative international relationships, leading to a detrimental shift in how the U.S. is viewed globally.

Prince Harry vs. The Tabloids

In juxtaposition to political discussions, Campbell shares his admiration for Prince Harry and his willingness to battle against media scrutiny and intrusive practices. Key takeaways:

  • Prince Harry's legal battles against tabloids showcase a fight against unethical media practices, which has wider implications for freedom of the press.
  • The episode draws attention to a broader cultural shift where high-profile individuals challenge systemic media abuse, as exemplified by Prince Harry’s lawsuit against unlawful phone tapping, leading to significant settlements for damages.

Conclusion

This episode of The Rest Is Politics delivers critical insights into the evolving political landscape in the United States under Trump’s influence and reflects on personal freedoms in an age dominated by media. Through intriguing discussions, Stewart and Campbell encourage listeners to contemplate the ramifications of authoritarian leadership and the media's evolving role in democracy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. may be experiencing troubling signs indicative of authoritarianism.
  • Trump’s unique approach has the potential to reshape international norms.
  • Celebrities like Prince Harry demonstrate that pushing back against media excesses is possible, advocating for personal privacy and public accountability.

Overall, the episode provides audiences with an engaging exploration of political authority and the media's influence over public life, culminating in a call for vigilance against authoritarian tendencies in any form.

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