Gail Collins and Bret Stephens discuss a variety of topics in their conversation. They begin with humor, discussing the bizarre story of Gov. Kristi Noem’s memoir, in which she brags about killing her dog and a goat. From there, they transition to more serious topics, such as campus protests and the political implications they may have. They debate the impact of these protests on President Biden’s standing, with Bret expressing concern that they may hurt him while Gail remains cautiously optimistic.
The conversation then turns to President Biden’s response to the student protests. While Bret praises Biden’s condemnation of the unrest, he worries that the President may appear indecisive and lose control of the situation, comparing him to Jimmy Carter. Gail shares her concerns about Biden’s age and the need for him to have a big moment to energize his campaign. However, she also notes that the country has been doing well under Biden’s leadership and that he has been a successful not-Trump President.
The discussion then shifts to former President Trump’s ongoing legal troubles, including his trial involving Stormy Daniels. Gail and Bret agree that Trump’s base is unlikely to be swayed by these scandals, as they have already shown a willingness to overlook more serious transgressions. However, they acknowledge that the trials could potentially benefit Trump politically, as evidenced by his strong polling in swing states. They both express a sense of resignation about the situation and the challenges of defeating Trump in a future election.
Despite their concerns, Gail and Bret maintain a sense of humor and optimism about the future. They joke about the possibility of Trump winning again and the unpredictable events that may unfold leading up to the next election. They urge readers to stay engaged and focused on the political landscape, even as they grapple with the uncertainties and anxieties of the current moment. In the end, they emphasize the importance of staying informed, active, and ready to confront whatever challenges lie ahead.
