Heather Cox Richardson: Sanity update

Jungian Echoes Sep 19, 2025 Historian Heather Cox Richardson argues that Donald Trump and the MAGA movement exploit a “friends vs. enemies” framework to consolidate power, a tactic common to authoritarian regimes. Trump weaponizes language, loyalty tests, and state power to brand opponents—even Republicans—as traitors. But Richardson stresses this is not a true partisan divide: it’s one man demanding personal loyalty versus the broader American people. At the same time, resistance is widespread and decentralized—through lawsuits, protests, boycotts, grassroots organizing, and creative civic action. Far from being a weakness, Richardson says this diversity is America’s strength: millions pushing back in different ways are difficult to suppress. Key Topics -Trump’s divide-and-rule strategy: labeling critics as enemies to justify power grabs. -Not “us vs. them,” but Trump vs. the people: an individual seeking authoritarian control. -Forms of resistance: protests, boycotts, lawsuits, local resolutions, and creative community action. -Weaknesses of Trump’s camp: declining popularity, reliance on unelected aides, scandals, and economic troubles. -Unlikely alliances: some conservatives breaking with Trump. -Media strategy: strengthen independent journalism, diversify communication channels, and counter propaganda. Main Message For Richardson, the struggle is not partisan but the American people defending democracy against authoritarianism. The nation’s strength lies in diversity, decentralization, and civic resilience. By acting creatively, nonviolently, and collectively, Americans can safeguard democratic values and outlast authoritarian attempts to dominate.