In my latest conversation with Don Lemon, we zoomed out to connect the dots. Trump’s occupation of D.C. isn’t an isolated power grab—it’s part of a broader authoritarian playbook.
Trump is targeting blue cities with Black leadership under the guise of “restoring order,” while crime is actually declining. It’s not about public safety—it’s about provocation and authoritarian spectacle to deflect from his growing political weakness. He’s trying to bait confrontation, create chaos, and flex fake strength as his scandals pile up, his approval tanks, and the Epstein scandal questions continue to mount.
Don and I discussed how D.C. is just one part of Trump’s escalating authoritarian actions amid his fears of losing the midterms. While Trump is seeking to manufacture crises to justify power grabs, he’s demanding aggressive nationwide gerrymanders to influence the 2026 midterms. He’s also installing far-right operatives, like nominating E.J. Antoni to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Antoni is not only the Chief Economist at the Heritage Foundation and a contributor to Project 2025, but he was also literally outside the Capitol on January 6.
At every step, Project 2025 is the throughline of this administration.
Don and I broke it all down—because it’s important for the media to depict the bigger picture. This isn’t simply erratic. It’s strategic. And it’s coming from a place of deep, unraveling weakness.
Watch the full discussion above, smash the like button, and if you value our independent truth-telling, subscribe to both of us below, if you haven’t already. And if you have, consider upgrading to a paid subscription.
If you value my independent journalism, as I’ve been analyzing Trump’s second term and the unfolding Project 2025 agenda, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber if you aren’t already.
If you value Don Lemon’s independent journalism, blunt truth-telling, and his relentless live coverage across multiple platforms, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to The Don Lemon Show here on Substack - and subscribe on YouTube.
Share this post