116. The slide from democracy to autocracy
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

116. The slide from democracy to autocracy

The New York Times Editorial Board published a piece on October 31, 2025, about a variety of indicators that should alarm everyone about the threat President Trump poses to our democracy. And the list is long.

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114. The stupid things people say publicly
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

114. The stupid things people say publicly

Have you had your fill of people saying stupid stuff publicly? Some of it is just so stupid it bears repeating, if only as a reminder for the rest of us that saying stupid stuff accomplishes nothing—except providing a platform for outrage. As if we need more of that.

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113. From dropout to doctorate
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

113. From dropout to doctorate

   How does a gang member make the transition from life on the streets to earning a doctorate in public policy? It’s not exactly an everyday event.

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108. MAGA’s perspective on Trump’s first 100 days (part 2)
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

108. MAGA’s perspective on Trump’s first 100 days (part 2)

Donald Trump has the lowest 100-day job approval rating of any president in the past 80 years, with public pushback on many of his policies and extensive economic discontent, including broad fears of a recession. We deliver part 2 of our conversation with MAGA faithful Chuck Cordak.

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107. MAGA’s perspective on Trump’s first 100 days (part 1)
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

107. MAGA’s perspective on Trump’s first 100 days (part 1)

Donald Trump has the lowest 100-day job approval rating of any president in the past 80 years, with public pushback on many of his policies and extensive economic discontent, including broad fears of a recession. What do the MAGA faithful think about it?

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103. Trump’s attacks on law firms—part of a bigger plan
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

103. Trump’s attacks on law firms—part of a bigger plan

If the mob were doing what President Donald Trump is doing, we’d call it a shakedown. By way of several executive orders, he has accused some of the largest law firms in America of unlawful misconduct and, on his own, determined they violated the law and issued punishment. But if the firms capitulate to his demands, they won’t be punished.

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100. The role of religion in politics
Jack D'Aurora Jack D'Aurora

100. The role of religion in politics

Most Americans go to church expecting to hear about salvation, morality and scripture. They don't anticipate hardball political endorsements. But some churches thrive on delivering politics from the pulpit.

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