Mayor Pete vs. the Imperial President

The TriadMayor Pete vs. the Imperial PresidentWhat are the rules going forward?Jonathan V. LastJun 24, 2026∙ Paid121568Share(Photo Illustration by Sarah Rogers/The Bulwark | Photos Getty, Shutterstock)1. PowerTonight the president of the United States will give a big speech kicking off the Great American State Fair. It will be an imperial performance. Donald Trump does not view himself as an elected representative or head of state. He sees himself as the embodiment of the state. “America,” in his mind, is interchangeable with his person. L’État, c’est moi.This is not just Trump’s private understanding.

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