Key Takeaways:
– Donald Trump met with Joe Biden, advocating for a smooth transition.
– Trump’s behavior differs from his hostile approach four years ago involving a violent attack on the Capitol.
– Marc Elias, a legal luminary, gives an alert about Trump’s behavior affecting democracy’s other institutions.
– Elias argues that Trump’s seemingly changed behavior could be a trap.
– The article concludes that Trump’s forthcoming actions will mirror Project 2025, and he will continue to contest the 2020 elections.
Meeting With Biden: A Change of Heart?
In the wake of the recent presidential election, Donald Trump extended an olive branch. Sitting down with Joe Biden in the oval office, both men pressed for a tranquil shift to the new administration. This was quite the opposite to Trump’s approach four years ago when he delivered threats with abandon at the press and election officials.
Trump’s Past Tactics: An Eye Opener
Rewinding to Trump’s previous tenure, he found himself at the head of an unruly mob, instigating an assault on the Capitol like none before. The stark contrast between his actions then and now could lead one to believe that 2024 marked a return to normal for Trump, but others see things differently.
Marc Elias’ Warning: Not All That Glitters is Gold
Attorney Marc Elias raised a red flag in a recent Democracy Docket article. He fears that Trump’s manipulative influence has extended beyond elections and into other democratic institutions. Elias expressed a concern many shared before the election; the agreed-upon view was that if Trump lost in 2024, his attacks on the electoral system would deepen.
Political Predation: Trump’s Unique Strategy
Trump’s political strategy is unique; he relentlessly hounds his opponents until they surrender and offer him praise. His validation-seeking behavior is especially evident in his interactions with the press, media executives, and world leaders, according to Elias. In fact, he postulates that Donald’s seeming transformation could be misleading.
A Potential Trap: The Dog that Did Not Bark
Observing Trump’s public demeanor, one might be fooled into believing he’s transformed. Elias warns Democrats and democracy advocates about such a trap. Trump’s silence should not be confused with acquiescence, but seen as satisfaction with the results. Elias’ perspective holds that Trump’s media critique will cease once he feels the press is obedient.
The Future with Trump: A Cautious Look Ahead
Elias concluded his piece with a serious prediction. He anticipates Trump will soon kick-start his agenda that aligns with the Project 2025 policy goals. Elias also asserts that Trump will continue to challenge the 2020 election results. Elias advises vigilance, stating that enduring Trump’s vilification and threats is a sign of standing up for the right thing.
Trump’s Litmus Test: Praise or Persecution?
Interestingly, Elias believes that Trump’s praise should not be taken at face value. If Trump begins to commend opposition figures or politicians, it should spark concern rather than joy. The solicitude should serve as a reminder that those figures are no longer perceived as threatening to him.
In conclusion, Elias’ opinion piece offers a word to the wise: it is when Trump praises us that we should worry and question our actions. His rhetoric and actions need careful scrutiny and possibly, as Elias recommends, a bit of resistance.