In this episode, Meia Nouwens is joined by Dr Ben Rhode, Editor of The Adelphi Series and IISS Senior Fellow for Transatlantic Affairs, and Dr Kori Schake, Director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute and former IISS Deputy Director-General. Together, they reflect on the legacy of the Trump presidency and also look ahead at what to expect from President Biden’s administration. 

Starting with the significance of Joe Biden being sworn in and the self-conscious attempt at the inauguration to project unity, the podcast panel discusses what it means for the US government to return to being ‘boring and competent’. Meia, Ben and Kori also consider what long-lasting effect the violent insurrection of 6 January 2021 will have on domestic policy, and the continuing challenges posed by right-wing and online radicalisation, as well as QAnon conspiracy theorists. 

The panel then explores what Trump’s legacy means both for Biden’s aim of ending the ‘uncivil war’, as well as for the Republican Party. They end by discussing what effect Trump’s legacy will have on US foreign policies and considering how Biden will use his first 100 days to signal his prioritisation between domestic and foreign priorities.

Date of recording: 21 January 2021

Sounds Strategic is recorded and produced at the IISS in London.

Theme music: ‘Safety in Numbers’ by We Were Promised Jetpacks

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