To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes It’s Time to Admit It: We Have a Psychotic Government
Mar 28, 2026
Jonathan Rauch, Brookings senior fellow and Atlantic contributor, offers a sharp take on governance and democratic norms. He compares past leadership style to current unpredictability. He describes how dismantled institutions create chaotic decision-making. He discusses global fallout, nuclear risks, and which institutions still push back.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Charlie Sykes 2016 Call With Trump
- Charlie Sykes recounts his 17-minute call with Donald Trump on March 28, 2016, where Trump defended insulting Heidi Cruz.
- The clip illustrates Trump's early no-apology style, insults, and rambling that presaged later behavior.
Administration As A Psychotic System
- Jonathan Rauch argues the administration functions as a psychotic system because it dismantled institutional policy review and coordination.
- He details closures like the Iran desk and firing NSC staff that removed government 'prefrontal cortex' planning.
Plan For Not Being Able To Plan
- Rauch says psychosis means inherent unpredictability, so allies must plan for 'not being able to plan.'
- He recommends relying on external constraints like courts, Congress, markets, and allies to impose rationality.