Beyond Trump: The Declining Relevance of a Divided GOP and the Resilience of American Prosperity
Recent developments, particularly the release of the Mueller Report, highlight the growing disconnect between the Trump administration and several members of the Republican Party (GOP). Critics argue that these signs point to a weakening influence of Trump within his own party. As we delve into the current political landscape, it becomes evident that Robert Reich's stance on Trump's significance might indeed be correct—a man whose powers, despite his unpopularity, remain substantial but are increasingly overshadowed by internal strife and his own perceived incompetence.
The GOP's Post-Mueller Sliding:
The recent release of the Mueller Report has served as a pivotal moment for the GOP, many of whose members, known colloquially as 'GOP poodles,' are beginning to distance themselves from the White House. The significance of this cannot be overstated, especially when compared to the disgraced Nixon in 1973, who similarly alienated his party with his economic failures and the subsequent Watergate scandal. A similar unfolding is happening now, with signs indicating that the once monolithic Republican Party is splintering, and its leaders are increasingly wary of aligning too closely with the incumbent president.
Parallels with Nixon and the Decline of Presidential Popularity:
Trump's persistence in power bears resemblance to President Richard Nixon's during the late 1970s. While Nixon had overseen a devastating economic downturn, leading to the great inflation, the current president seems to be experiencing a similar phenomenon, with his approval ratings consistently low. Despite presiding over an economy that should normally support high approval ratings, Trump's numbers remain stubbornly low, reflecting a growing disconnect between reality and public perception.
The Realities of Political Survival:
Robert Reich's argument that Trump's continued relevance is overstated is supported by the current political climate. While still surrounded by a loyal base, Trump has become an afterthought for many. His former associates and advisors are increasingly speaking out against him, and those tasked with defending him are merely going through the motions. This shift in the political winds is being mirrored in the hearings and testimonies where defenders of Trump are more focused on protecting themselves than supporting the president.
Faith in Republican Leadership:
The failure of Trump's Republican allies to defend him against the findings in the Mueller Report, and the notable absence of GOP support during critical moments, underscore the erosion of trust within the party. As Reich argues, the traditional loyalty and support that Republican leaders once showed for their president are diminishing. This is highlighted by the rare appearances of Republican lawmakers during the Cohen hearings, who were more interested in attacking Cohen than defending Trump.
The Impact on Democratic Prospects:
The Russian Interference saga has not only damaged Trump's presidency but also the Democratic Party, which faces a reckoning of its own. Recent developments such as the agreements among Democratic candidates on the Green New Deal illustrate the internal battles and disagreements within the party's ranks. This division among Democrats further exacerbates the political climate, contributing to the perception that none of them have the potential to become the next president.
Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty:
Despite the growing lack of support from his party and the increasing criticism of his handling of the economy and foreign policy, Trump retains the powers of the presidency. However, his ability to effectively wield these powers is severely hampered by his own perceived incompetence and the lack of competent advice from those around him. This peculiar leadership dynamic sets Trump apart from his predecessors, making him both unique and unique in the modern era of American politics.
Conclusion:
The landscape of American politics is shifting rapidly, and Robert Reich's assessment that Trump is becoming an afterthought is increasingly accurate. While the president still wields significant power, his growing irrelevance and the internal strife within the GOP are presenting unprecedented challenges to both the current administration and the future of American politics. This evolving landscape is a testament to the resilience of American democracy, as well as the vulnerability of a singularly focused administration in the face of internal and external pressures.