Absolute Power Corrupts, as Trump’s War with Iran Demonstrates

Absolute Power Corrupts, as Trump’s War with Iran Demonstrates

Lord Acton gave us a memorable sentence that you’ve heard many times. He said, “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Lord Acton’s statement resonates now, because it pretty much describes Donald Trump’s modus operandi. President Trump cannot get everything he wants in America’s constitutional political system, but he’s certainly trying hard to dominate America’s domestic and foreign affairs.  One of his most serious abuses of authority occurred when he launched the Iran War. President Trump ordered unilateral military strikes on Iran without seeking prior authorization from Congress. The consequences of his action are already severe. Trump’s war of choice created economic and humanitarian crises throughout the world.

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.