A New Year, a New Trump Presidency, and Familiar Debates
Bret Stephens and Gail Collins initiate their new year’s dialogue with the looming prospect of Donald Trump’s second presidency, a topic laden with both trepidation and, from Stephens’ perspective, a sliver of cautious optimism. Stephens, resolving to maintain a positive outlook, outlines a hopeful, albeit partially tongue-in-cheek, vision of Trump’s potential accomplishments. This includes fiscal conservatism through spending cuts and tax extensions, dismantling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, achieving a decisive resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue, liberating Israeli hostages, bolstering domestic energy production, securing the southern border, and even entertaining the fanciful notion of acquiring Greenland and parts of Canada. However, beneath the playful suggestions, Stephens’ primary aspiration is for the Democratic Party to critically assess its shortcomings and emerge as a formidable opposition force.
Collins, while acknowledging the festive season’s opportunity for familial reunions, promptly steers the conversation toward the political arena. She underscores the widespread economic anxieties stemming from the rising cost of living and advocates for tax relief targeted at the middle and working classes, offset by increased taxes on the wealthy. This, she argues, would free up resources to invest in crucial programs like education and childcare, alleviating the financial burdens faced by working families.
Both columnists acknowledge the public’s discontent with the current economic climate. Stephens highlights the growing voter frustration with inflation and the perceived misrepresentation of Joe Biden’s fitness for office. Collins, while refraining from a full-throated defense of Biden’s accomplishments, implicitly points to successes in healthcare and environmental policy. Stephens counters by portraying the Democrats as the party responsible for societal ills such as the drug crisis, escalating crime rates, unchecked immigration, and the perceived decline in public education. He calls for a return to the Clinton-era Democratic Party, one that prioritizes public order and measured progress.
The conversation shifts to immediate political developments, focusing on Mike Johnson’s precarious speakership and the implications of narrow political divides. Both writers express relief at the restoration of a semblance of order in the House following the tumultuous events of 2023. However, they also acknowledge the disproportionate influence wielded by fringe figures like Tom Massie, whose swing vote now holds significant sway. This, they agree, is a consequence of the intensely polarized political landscape.
Returning to the topic of Trump, Collins criticizes his rhetoric on immigration, particularly his tendency to scapegoat immigrants for national problems. She anticipates a continuation of restrictive immigration policies under the new administration, with potential exceptions for individuals possessing skills deemed valuable by figures like Elon Musk. Stephens, while affirming the importance of immigrants to the American story and economy, emphasizes the need for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. He advocates for border security, comprehensive tracking of immigrants, penalties for illegal entry, deportation of criminals, and incentivizing legal immigration.
The exchange concludes with a reflection on the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter. Collins praises Carter for his commitment to desegregation, environmentalism, and global peace efforts, noting his work with Habitat for Humanity as an exemplary model of public service. Stephens concurs, acknowledging Carter’s integrity and adherence to his faith, while also mentioning Carter’s deregulation of the airline industry as a point of personal appreciation. Finally, they touch upon the newly implemented congestion pricing rules in Manhattan. Collins expresses support for the concept but acknowledges her limited perspective as a non-driver. Stephens, a suburban resident who frequently drives into the city, views the new rules as another burdensome tax disproportionately affecting the working class. He advocates for more efficient governance and lower taxes rather than continuous tax increases that he believes contribute to an exodus from the state. This leads to a brief mention of the stark contrast between New York and Florida’s budgets and tax structures, a topic they agree warrants further discussion.
The conversation between Stephens and Collins encapsulates the anxieties and uncertainties surrounding the upcoming Trump presidency. They navigate a range of politically charged topics, from economic policy and immigration to political leadership and social issues. Their differing perspectives reflect the deep divisions within the American political landscape, while their shared concerns highlight the challenges facing the nation in the year ahead. The final note on Carter serves as a poignant reminder of the qualities often sought but not always found in political leaders.
