History Is Relevant

Eisenhower’s Presidency Offers a Model for Bringing the GOP Back to the Mainstream

Many conservatives in the GOP are disillusioned with the direction of the country under President Trump. They support the Republican Party and its values but are troubled by the party’s growing extremism. Is there a path back toward mainstream politics in Republican affairs? President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s philosophy and governance may offer a way forward. There are lessons from Eisenhower’s presidency that suggest opportunities for reshaping the G.O.P. This podcast examines two examples of Eisenhower’s effective leadership -- his pragmatism and his internationalism.

The Electoral College is Undermining Democracy. Is Reform Possible?

Will the Electoral College continue to undermine American democracy? Perhaps. But efforts to reform the system are continuing. A new effort is gaining support to do an end run around the Electoral College and achieve reform without a constitutional amendment. That program is called the National Popular Vote, or NPV. It might create a solution.

Who is George Soros, the Villain in Far-Right Political Commentary? The Answer is Surprising

Right-wing commentators and politicians frequently portray billionaire philanthropist George Soros as a dangerous figure, often casting him as a "puppet master" behind global events and liberal causes. They describe him as a shadowy force that manipulates politics, economics, and the mass media.  Others praise Soros, pointing out that he gave away most of his fortune to support humanitarian and democratic causes. Soros did not cringe in the face of resistance from many people that criticized his ideas and actions. They admire his persistence.  Who is the real George Soros? There are lessons for today in the record of his impact both in American and Hungarian affairs.

Leadership, Brilliant and Flawed: Kennedy ‘s Missile Crisis, Trump’s War Against Iran

How did the United States stumble into a war that led to missile and drone strikes by Iran that produced enormous damage throughout the Middle East? Oil and gas prices spiraled, creating huge economic problems in America and the world. And, of course, the war produced a vast humanitarian crisis. Why did President Trump launch that controversial war? Many Americans are frustrated because they have not received convincing explanations.  Comparing President Trump’s handling of problems with Iran to President John F. Kennedy’s handling of the Soviet Union in the Cuban Missile Crisis offers insights into why the United States is now in a mess. Trump did little to consider the possible consequences of armed intervention when he green-lighted large-scale military engagement. In contrast, John F. Kennedy approached a crisis in October 1962 with careful study of the risks and opportunities for a negotiated settlement.

In 2018 Donald Trump Killed a Chance to Reform and Pacify Iran

Back in 2013 a moderate candidate won Iran’s presidential election. That leader proceeded to work a deal that significantly limited Iran’s nuclear development. The United Nations supported that agreement and six major countries signed on, including the United States. The settlement was effective. Inspectors made several site visits and reported the Iranians honored terms of the agreement. If negotiations in later years produced more improvements, perhaps we would not be dealing today with an aggressive Iran and a war new war in the Middle East,                How was that remarkable breakthrough achieved, and what caused its demise?