In this episode of the Bulwark Podcast, Anne Applebaum explores the seductive appeal of authoritarianism, particularly how it impacts American oligarchs and the broader implications for both domestic and international politics. She contends that while some wealthy individuals might see short-term gains from cozying up to authoritarian regimes, the long-term repercussions can harm business and undermine the rule of law. Applebaum draws attention to the troubling normalization of corruption during the Trump years, the looming threat of a techno-oligarchic future, and the risks posed by foreign interference in U.S. elections through platforms like TikTok. Additionally, she examines recent developments in Syria, Romania, and Israel, stressing the fragile nature of seemingly stable autocracies and the intricate consequences of shifting geopolitical landscapes.
