To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes How Trump Took a Hatchet to America’s “Shining City”
9 snips
Apr 18, 2026 
Richard Stengel, former Under Secretary of State and ex-managing editor of TIME, discusses soft power, diplomacy, and disinformation. He critiques performative Christianity and examines how U.S. influence has eroded. They explore Trump’s diplomacy, cuts to aid and broadcasting, shifting alliances, and the risks of aligning with illiberal leaders.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Performative Christianity As Political Weapon
- Richard Stengel says Trump-style performative Christianity uses religion as a cudgel to advance MAGA, not genuine faith.
- He links this to the prosperity gospel and contrasts it with the Pope's measured, peace-centered theology.
Trump Starts Fires Then Claims To Extinguish Them
- Stengel argues the Strait of Hormuz reopening is a classic Trump maneuver: he created the problem and now seeks credit for fixing it.
- He notes Iran and global trade interests made reopening likely regardless of larger deals.
Soft Power Is Persuasion Not Force
- Stengel explains soft power is persuasion via culture, ideas and reputation, not military might, and it drove huge global admiration under Obama.
- He cites polls showing American favorability rose to 70–80% then nosedived under Trump.