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Could America's administrative state be the greatest threat to liberty today? Ned Ryan, author of "American Leviathan: The Birth of the Administrative State and Progressive Authoritarianism," joins us to tackle this monumental question. We trace the origins and growth of the administrative state from Woodrow Wilson's era to today's sprawling bureaucracy, which has evolved into a behemoth with over 440 departments. Ryan offers a thought-provoking critique of this centralized power, challenging its compatibility with the foundational principles of the United States and highlighting the risks it poses to American freedom and national security.

Engage with a detailed examination of the historical clash between progressivism and conservatism, as we explore how early progressives, influenced by thinkers like Georg Hegel, envisioned the state as a tool for societal perfection. This vision starkly contrasts with the founders' intent to diffuse power and safeguard individual rights. Our discussion extends to contemporary politics, pondering the potential consequences of a second Trump presidency on the administrative state and the complexities involved in dismantling entrenched bureaucratic structures.

Explore the necessity of executive reform and state and local governance's pivotal role in American life. We contemplate the modern political landscape, where the concentration of power and the influence of money sustain the status quo. With Trump's unique position challenging the status quo, questions arise about how to restore the original intent of the Constitution. We conclude with strategic reflections on personnel and political operations from Trump's first term, offering key lessons for future governance and emphasizing the critical importance of informed leadership in navigating political warfare.