DeepSummary
The episode is an interview with Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a critic of Donald Trump and proponent of the "Disagree Better" campaign aimed at depolarizing politics. Cox discusses his victory over a far-right opponent in the recent Republican primary, positioning himself as part of the Romney wing of the GOP that remains strong in Utah despite the national party's shift towards Trump's populism.
Cox explains his "Disagree Better" initiative, which encourages passionate disagreement while still treating others with respect. He emphasizes that this is not about moderation or compromising core beliefs, but rather changing the tone and process of political discourse. Cox reflects on his critiques of Trump and preparing to be a target of Trump supporters, while also seeking to understand their perspectives.
The governor also weighs in on Trump's critics like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, arguing that while their concerns about threats to democracy are valid, their approach may not be effective in changing hearts and minds. Cox expresses optimism about the future of the Republican Party and the possibility of moving past the Trump/Biden era.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Utah Governor Spencer Cox represents a more traditional conservative wing of the Republican Party as opposed to Trump's populist movement.
- Cox's 'Disagree Better' campaign aims to reduce polarization through passionate but respectful disagreement, not just bland civility or centrism.
- While critical of Trump, Cox seeks to understand his supporters' perspectives rather than outright condemning them.
- Cox believes Trump's prominent critics like Cheney and Kinzinger are too hostile towards Trump voters, alienating rather than persuading them.
- Despite his criticisms, Cox does not rule out cooperating with a potential future Trump administration.
- Cox is optimistic that a new vision can emerge for American politics that moves beyond the current Biden/Trump era.
- However, Cox states he has no personal ambitions to run for higher office like president himself.
- Utah's Republican primaries suggest the state remains an outlier resisting the national GOP's shift towards Trumpism.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I do have to say I think we need an optimistic vision of the country. I think people are desperate, 70% of Americans, according to the polling that we've seen from more in common. And other groups hate what's happening in politics today. They're desperate for something else.“ by Spencer Cox
- “I think they've lumped everybody who supports Trump into being just like Trump instead of trying to understand them and get to know them and have some sympathy, some empathy, and again, trying to help them and our party be better.“ by Spencer Cox
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Episode Information
Playbook Deep Dive
POLITICO
6/28/24