MSNBC Discovers Executive Power Only Problematic When Trump Wields It
When MSNBC breathlessly reports on Donald Trump's 'king-like' governing during a shutdown, one might wonder: where was this vigorous defense of democratic process when previous administrations bypassed Congress entirely? George W. Bush signed over 150 executive orders and memoranda that altered existing laws or created new policy, often with little public oversight, including sweeping surveillance
programs. Barack Obama, too, faced criticism for his use of executive actions, such as shielding DREAMers from deportation or enacting climate regulations without legislative approval. Yet, the 'king' epithet seems reserved for specific individuals and specific contexts. This isn't about defending Trump's actions, but highlighting the stunning amnesia of mainstream outlets. The constant drumbeat
against 'authoritarianism' only truly finds its voice when the 'wrong' person is in power, conveniently forgetting the extensive history of presidential unilateralism from both parties. It appears the concern isn't the scope of executive power, but who gets to wield it and for which agenda. How many times must we watch this selective outrage performative dance before acknowledging the stage has
been set for decades?