The Warning with Steve Schmidt

Steve Schmidt: Trump Has Betrayed His Oath

14 snips
Feb 17, 2026
A fierce critique of a president’s conduct and its threat to democratic norms. Comparisons to past leaders highlight contrasts in oath, duty, and respect for institutions. Arguments frame a political movement as an existential challenge to American democracy. Historical quotes on free press and civic restraint are woven throughout.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Trump As A Unique Threat

  • Steve Schmidt argues Donald Trump is uniquely malignant compared with all past presidents.
  • He frames Trump's behavior as a profound moral and constitutional collapse for the country.
ANECDOTE

John Adams' White House Prayer

  • Schmidt reads John Adams' White House prayer about wishing honest and wise rulers.
  • He uses the prayer to contrast early presidential conduct with Trump's behavior.
INSIGHT

Character Evidence Against Trump

  • Schmidt lists character indictments: cruelty, despicability, and association with criminals and sexual predators.
  • He presents these traits as evidence Trump rejects America's values and ideals.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app