12 Days to Go: French Fries and Fascism
On "The Daily" podcast, former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly's revelation about Donald Trump's authoritarian and fascist-like behavior takes center stage. The summary examines Kelly's recollection of Trump's concerning actions during his presidency, from his lack of understanding for military sacrifice to his willingness to use the military against American citizens.
With the election in its final stretch, the summary also explores the contrasting strategies of the candidates. Kamala Harris seizes on Kelly's comments to portray Trump as unfit for office and a threat to democracy. Meanwhile, Trump employs attention-grabbing stunts and increasingly vulgar rhetoric in a bid to energize his base and appeal to working-class voters wary of Harris's middle-class image.
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1-Page Summary
Trump's Authoritarian and Fascist Tendencies According to John Kelly
Former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly believes Donald Trump exhibits authoritarian and fascist-like behavior, according to sources. Kelly stated that Trump fits the "general definition of a fascist," citing his far-right political ideology and admiration for dictators. John F. Kelly recounted an incident where Trump asked "what was in it for them" when referring to fallen U.S. soldiers, showing a lack of understanding for military sacrifice. Kelly also expressed deep concern over Trump's willingness to use the military against American citizens, which Kelly sees as a serious abuse of power, according to journalist Michael S. Schmidt.
Kamala Harris's Final Campaign Strategy
In the final stages of her campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is increasingly focusing her message on Trump's unfitness for office and threat to democracy, building on Kelly's revelations. Harris conducted a news conference urging the public to heed Kelly's words as confirmation of Trump's authoritarian tendencies, according to Reid Epstein. To appeal to conservative voters, Harris is campaigning with prominent Republican Liz Cheney, targeting "shy" Republican women voters who may secretly support Harris due to concerns about Trump's rhetoric and behavior, as noted by Michael Barbaro.
Trump's Final Campaign Tactics
Trump is employing attention-grabbing stunts, such as working at a McDonald's, to connect with working-class voters and counter Harris's middle-class image, according to Lisa Lerer. Trump has also resorted to increasingly vulgar language, including calling Harris an offensive vulgarity, in an attempt to energize his base while risking alienating moderate and conservative-leaning voters that Harris is pursuing, Lerer explained.
1-Page Summary
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Counterarguments
- John Kelly's assessment of Trump's behavior as authoritarian and fascist-like is subjective and may be influenced by personal or political biases.
- The use of military against American citizens is a complex issue, and some may argue that in certain circumstances, it could be justified to maintain law and order.
- Trump's question about fallen soldiers could be interpreted differently, perhaps as a critique of foreign policy or military engagements rather than a lack of respect for military sacrifice.
- The focus on Trump's unfitness for office by Kamala Harris could be seen as a political strategy rather than a genuine concern for democracy, and some may argue that it avoids addressing policy issues directly.
- Campaigning with Liz Cheney might not resonate with all conservative voters, and some may view it as a political tactic rather than a sincere partnership.
- Trump's stunts, such as working at a McDonald's, could be seen as an attempt to genuinely connect with everyday Americans rather than just a campaign tactic.
- The use of vulgar language in politics, while often criticized, can be defended as a form of straight talk or authenticity that resonates with certain voters tired of political correctness.
Actionables
- You can deepen your understanding of political ideologies by starting a book club focused on political history and theory. Gather a group of friends or community members with diverse political views to read and discuss books that explore different political ideologies, the history of democracy, and the impact of authoritarian regimes. This can provide a broader context for current political events and behaviors.
- Enhance your media literacy by creating a personal "fact-check challenge" where you verify political statements and claims. Whenever you come across a political statement, especially those related to campaign messages or character assessments, take the time to research its accuracy from multiple reputable sources. This habit can help you form more informed opinions and resist misinformation.
- Foster civil discourse by hosting a virtual "coffee chat" series with people of varying political views. Use social media or community forums to invite participants for respectful discussions on political topics, such as the role of the military in society or the importance of political rhetoric. This can encourage understanding and bridge gaps between different political perspectives.
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Trump's authoritarian and fascist tendencies, as described by former chief of staff John Kelly
John Kelly, Trump's former chief of staff, has identified troubling behavior in the former president that suggests an alignment with authoritarian and fascist characteristics.
John Kelly, Trump's former chief of staff, believes Trump exhibits authoritarian and fascist-like behavior
According to John Kelly’s statements revealed through various sources, the former chief of staff sees President Trump exhibiting traits that are not only authoritarian but distinctly fascist in nature.
Kelly stated that Trump fits the general definition of a fascist, citing Trump's far-right political ideology, authoritarian tendencies, and admiration for dictators
During a CNN town hall session, Vice President Harris agreed with the assessment of Donald Trump's authoritarian leanings. An unidentified speaker mentioned that John Kelly told the New York Times that former President Trump is "certainly an authoritarian" who falls into the "general definition of a fascist." Supporting this classification, Kelly himself noted, "The former president is in the far right area. He's certainly an authoritarian, admires people who are dictators."
Kelly, upon reviewing the definition of fascism—characterized by a dictatorial leader, centralized hypocrisy, militarism, and forcible suppression—implied that Trump's behavior and ideology firmly reside within this framework.
Kelly recounted an incident where Trump asked him "what was in it for them" when referring to U.S. soldiers who died in combat, showing a lack of understanding and respect for military sacrifice
Journalist Michael S. Schmidt narrated an incident that underscored Trump's insensitivity towards military sacrifice. He recounted how on Memorial Day of 2017, while at Arlington National Cemetery, Trump asked Kelly, "What was in it ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Trump's authoritarian and fascist tendencies, as described by former chief of staff John Kelly
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- Trump's actions and statements are subject to interpretation, and what some view as authoritarian could be seen by others as strong leadership or a response to particular circumstances.
- The term "fascist" has a specific historical context and its application to contemporary politics can be contentious; some may argue that the label is used too loosely and that Trump's policies do not align with true fascist ideology.
- The question "what was in it for them" could be interpreted differently, potentially as a clumsy way of questioning the motivations for war or the reasons soldiers are honored, rather than a lack of respect.
- The use of military force domestically has precedents in U.S. history, and some may argue that in certain situations, it is a necessary tool for maintaining order, not necessarily an abuse of power.
- The concerns about Trump's admiration for dictators could be co ...
Actionables
- You can foster a deeper appreciation for military service by volunteering with organizations that support veterans and their families, which may give you a personal understanding of the sacrifices made by service members. By engaging with veterans, you can hear their stories firsthand, participate in community-building activities, and help address their needs, thereby gaining a more profound respect for their service.
- Enhance your critical thinking skills by starting a book club focused on historical authoritarian regimes and their leaders, which can provide context and a more nuanced understanding of authoritarian behavior. Reading about different historical contexts and discussing them with others can sharpen your ability to recognize authoritarian tendencies and understand the implications of such leadership styles.
- Encourage civic ...
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Kamala Harris's closing campaign strategy, including courting conservative voters
As her campaign enters its final stages, Vice President Kamala Harris is adjusting her strategy to incorporate a broader appeal, particularly to conservative voters who may be disenchanted with former President Trump.
Harris is increasingly focusing her message on Trump's unfitness for office and threat to democracy, building on Kelly's revelations
Following the revelations by John Kelly, Kamala Harris has been aligning her message closely with his sentiments about the necessity of sound character and temperament in a president. Reid Epstein points out that Harris conducted a news conference urging the public to heed Kelly's words as confirmation of Trump's unfitness for office.
The Harris campaign is dialing in on the narrative that Trump is unstable and a threat to democracy, especially as the race nears its conclusion. Harris herself stated, "Donald Trump is increasingly unhinged and unstable," using Trump's rhetoric to frame him as a "threat to democracy."
Harris is campaigning with prominent Republican Liz Cheney to appeal to "shy" conservative voters, particularly women, who may secretly support Harris
In an unconventional move for a Democrat, Harris has joined forces with Liz Cheney, a prominent Republican, for a roadshow in crucial blue wall states. This strategic partnership aims to attract "shy Harris voters" — Republican women who privately consider voting for Harris, due to concerns about Trump's rhetoric and behavior. Harris has expressed confidence in those who know Trump best, regarding his authoritarian tendencies.
Interestingly, Harris is not emphasizing her identity as a woman or the historic nature of potentially being the first woman elected president. Rather, she is presenting herself as a generic Democrat in an attempt to broaden her appeal beyond traditional party lines.
Cheney has been campaigning with Harris and conveying to conservative women that they can "vote their conscience" in the privacy of the voting booth without publicly acknowledging their ...
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Kamala Harris's closing campaign strategy, including courting conservative voters
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Clarifications
- John Kelly, a former White House Chief of Staff under President Trump, made public statements expressing concerns about Trump's character and temperament. These statements are referred to as Kelly's revelations and sentiments in the context of Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign strategy. Kelly's remarks are being used by Harris to underscore Trump's alleged unfitness for office and his perceived threat to democracy.
- "Shy" conservative voters are individuals who may privately support a candidate or political party but are hesitant to publicly express their views due to social pressures, fear of backlash, or concerns about being judged. These voters might keep their political preferences hidden to avoid conflict or criticism from their social circles or communities. Campaign strategies sometimes target these voters by providing reassurance or creating a safe space for them to express their support without facing public scrutiny.
- Harris is downplaying her gender and the historic significance of potentially becoming the first woman president to appeal to a broader range of voters beyond traditional party lines. This strategy aims to focus more on policy and character issues rather than identity politics. By presenting herself as a generic Democrat, Harris seeks to attract support based on her qualifications and platform rather than solely on her gender. This approach is part of a broader effort to appeal to conservative voters who may be hesitant to support her based on ideological differences.
- The concept of a "permission structure" for conservative women to vote for Harris involves creating a supportive environment that reassures these vote ...
Counterarguments
- Harris's focus on Trump's unfitness may not resonate with voters who prioritize policy over personality.
- Emphasizing Trump's instability could backfire if voters perceive it as negative campaigning rather than a substantive critique.
- Campaigning with Liz Cheney might alienate some of Harris's base who disagree with Cheney's conservative policies.
- Attracting "shy" conservative voters could be challenging in a polarized political climate where party loyalty is strong.
- The strategy of not highlighting her gender or the historic nature of her candidacy might overlook the importance of representation and identity politics for some voters.
- The assumption that there is a significant pool of Republican-leaning voters open to supporting Harris may be optimistic and not reflective of the current political divis ...
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Trump's Campaign Tactics in the Final Weeks, Including Viral Stunts and Vulgar Language
Donald Trump has taken an unorthodox approach in the final weeks of his campaign, employing attention-grabbing stunts and controversial language to captivate his audience and attack his political opponents.
Trump is using attention-grabbing stunts to try to connect with working-class voters
In a bid to connect with working-class voters and counter Vice President Kamala Harris's middle-class image, Trump took part in a publicity stunt, where he worked at a McDonald's. This stunt, which went viral, aimed to underscore Harris's perceived inauthenticity regarding her claim about working at McDonald's during her younger years.
Lisa Lerer explained that Trump’s effort to cast Harris as an out-of-touch elite is exemplified by his working at and patronizing McDonald's—activities that are quintessential to mainstream America. These stunts are targeted at mobilizing Trump’s base by framing Harris as too liberal.
Trump has also resorted to increasingly vulgar and outrageous language
In addition to stunts, Trump has attracted attention for his use of vulgar language directed at his political opponents. Michael Barbaro reported that Trump resorted to calling Kamala Harris a vulgarity that begins ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Trump's Campaign Tactics in the Final Weeks, Including Viral Stunts and Vulgar Language
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- Trump's stunt at McDonald's could be seen as a genuine attempt to show solidarity with everyday Americans rather than a mere publicity stunt.
- The use of controversial language might be interpreted by some as a strategy to dominate media coverage and keep the focus on his campaign.
- Trump's directness, even if considered vulgar by some, could be argued to be a form of political speech that resonates with voters tired of traditional political rhetoric.
- The claim that Trump's tactics could alienate moderate and conservative-leaning voters assumes that these groups are monolithic and may not account for the diversity of opinion within these demographics.
- The effectiveness of Trump's tactics in ...
Actionables
- You can analyze the impact of communication styles by observing reactions to different language used in social media posts. Start by crafting two posts on a topic you're passionate about: one using formal language and the other using colloquial or provocative language. Share these on your social media and note the differences in engagement, comments, and shares to understand how language choice can mobilize different audiences.
- Enhance your understanding of audience perception by volunteering at a local community event that's outside your usual social circle. Engage with attendees to learn firsthand how people from different backgrounds react to various topics and communication styles. This will give you a practical sense of how certain actions or words can connect with or alienate different groups.
- Experiment with framing a de ...
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