In this episode of "The Good Fight," Yascha Mounk interviews Francis Fukuyama about the state of American democracy under a second Trump administration in 2025. They discuss Trump's authoritarian tendencies, corruption, and the surprising incompetence hindering his agenda. Fukuyama expresses concern over political corruption, foreign policy driven by personal interests, and the erosion of norms. They analyze the potential for Trump to manipulate future elections and the resilience of American institutions. The conversation extends to the global stage, addressing the rise of populism in Europe, the challenges facing Ukraine, and the need for a renewed vision of liberalism that embraces effective state power. They explore how bad choices and unnecessary constraints hinder progress and discuss the importance of finding a middle ground between excessive rule of law and authoritarianism.
Part 1: Trump Administration, Governance
Part 2: Institutions, Judiciary, Conflict
Part 3: Global Populism, Liberalism
Part 4: Geopolitics, Conclusion
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