The MAGA Coup: Trump’s Takeover of the GOP (w/ Dr. Rachel Blum)

Dr. Rachel Blum, an expert on political parties and factions, and author of the book How the Tea Party Captured the GOP: Insurgent Factions in American Politics, joins the pod to explore a bold transformation within the Republican Party. Can the rise of the MAGA movement be understood as a mere political shift, or does it signify a deeper change in American democracy? We discuss the movement’s historical lineage, from Barry Goldwater’s conservatism to its contemporary manifestations, and consider its profound implications on the GOP’s future and the broader democratic landscape.

Donald Trump’s indelible impact on American politics is undeniable, and we discuss the fascinating trajectory that has seen traditional Republican elites ousted in favor of a new MAGA-aligned core. What are the social and political repercussions of Trump's enduring influence, and how has his rhetoric redefined what is politically acceptable? We examine the psychological loyalty Trump inspires in his base, the dynamics of conservative Christian support, and the Democrats’ ongoing struggle to resonate with some Americans amid a fragmented media landscape.

Finally, we discuss with threats to democratic norms, including erosion of trust in election integrity and heightened polarization, posed by the MAGA movement. From potential authoritarian tendencies in a second Trump term to the Democrats’ strategic response to evolving identity politics, we consider how these factors might reshape America’s political future. 

Related:
Counterpoint Podcast

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