In his 1796 Farewell Address, President George Washington issued a chilling warning: “The spirit of encroachment tends to consolidate the powers of all the departments in one, and thus to create, whatever the form of government, a real despotism.”
Fast forward to 2025, and Washington’s parting words feel eerily prophetic.
We are living through one of the most turbulent chapters in American political history. The aggressive expansion of executive power we’re witnessing today is unlike anything we’ve experienced since the final days of Richard Nixon’s presidency. But there’s one major difference: Nixon was ultimately abandoned by his party. President Donald Trump, on the other hand, stands backed by a unified Republican Party and a vast conservative media ecosystem, both of which bolster his agenda and drive for power.
Instead of checking the executive, the Republican-controlled Congress has willingly ceded much of its power to Trump. And after decades of strategic judicial appointments, conservatives have cemented a powerful presence across the federal courts.
So where does this leave the nation?
The Democratic Party is still searching for an effective strategy to counter Trump. Infighting and frustrations over its own party leadership have hurt the Democrats during the first 100 days. Yet, in the midst of the chaos, there are signs of a growing backlash — even in traditionally red states — as Americans begin to feel the consequences of the administration’s policies.
As this president continues his assault on foundational institutions — from the courts to the press to higher education — millions are watching with bated breath, wondering: What comes next? What does it mean for democracy?
History offers more than context in moments like this — it offers clarity.
That’s why I’m starting this Substack: by drawing on the past, we can make better sense of the present and understand how to move forward. Step into my classroom, and let’s ask the hard questions together.
As a free subscriber, you’ll get a weekly post and an interview. As a paid subscriber, you will gain access to the chat, the full archive of interviews, and other special content. Please join me as I explore this new medium, which will offer an intimate, up-close opportunity to learn more about where we are and where we might be going.
So, let’s get this conversation started.
Share this post