The Dispatch Podcast Is Donald Trump's Golden Age Here?
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Feb 13, 2026 
Megan McArdle, economics and policy columnist; Kevin Williamson, conservative commentator; Jonah Goldberg, political analyst. They debate the DOJ’s failed move to indict six Democrats and the grand jury rebuke. They dissect Pam Bondi’s theatrical Capitol testimony and loyalty politics. They weigh Republican splits over tariffs, the January jobs report, and whether the president can claim a supposed economic golden age.
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Weaponizing Justice Undermines Legitimacy
- Kevin Williamson called the indictment attempt 'stupid, vindictive, idiotic' and evidence of weaponizing government power.
- He argues the theatricality of the video doesn't justify criminal prosecution and highlights administration hypocrisy.
Grand Jury Successs Is A Backstop, Not A Solution
- Megan McArdle welcomed the grand jury's refusal but warned that relying on backstops means other safeguards have failed.
- She emphasized impeachment has become ineffective and institutions face stress when used as last-resort fixes.
Hearings As Performance For The President
- Pam Bondi's House hearing was theatrical and revealed officials perform more for Donald Trump than for public accountability.
- The spectacle suggests many hearings aim to shore up internal standing rather than produce facts.