On with Kara Swisher The Red Scare Returns? Lessons from McCarthyism in the Age of Trump 2.0
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Jul 3, 2025 Clay Risen, a New York Times reporter and author of "Red Scare: Blacklists, McCarthyism and the Making of Modern America," delves into the unsettling parallels between McCarthyism and today's political landscape. He discusses how current political rhetoric mirrors the tactics of the past, particularly the use of labels like 'communist' to discredit progressive figures. Risen also examines the impact of the Red Scare on civil rights and modern surveillance, emphasizing the need for historical awareness to navigate contemporary challenges in democracy.
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Hoover vs. McCarthy Tension
- FBI Director Hoover initially supported McCarthy but later distanced himself. - Hoover suppressed information to prevent McCarthy from going too far and damaging law enforcement efforts.
Roy Cohn's Ruthless Influence
- Roy Cohn organized McCarthy's operations and pushed aggressive tactics. - Cohn's "never apologize, never back down" approach influenced Trump's style later on.
TV’s Role in Slowing McCarthy
- Early media coverage of McCarthy was often uncritical due to faith in politicians. - TV exposed McCarthy's bullying effectively, leading to public backlash and his downfall.
