Tim Alberta, a staff writer for The Atlantic magazine and author of "American Carnage," discusses the transformation of the Republican Party during the transition from George W. Bush to Donald Trump. He highlights how various societal, economic, and political factors converged to create conditions ripe for Trump's ascendancy, allowing him to reshape the GOP in his image. Alberta argues that while Trump capitalized on widespread discontent among Americans, particularly those feeling left behind by traditional politics, he was also enabled by Republican elites who prioritized power and influence over principles, ultimately leading to the party's evolution into a more populist, reactionary entity. "American Carnage" delves into this narrative, exploring how Trump's rise and the acquiescence of GOP leaders contributed to the party's current state.
