Jon Meacham on what Trump’s reelection means for the soul of the nation

Firing Line with Margaret Hoover

After Donald Trump’s historic reelection, presidential biographer Jon Meacham joins Margaret Hoover to discuss what the outcome means for the soul of the nation and what comes next.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning historian had warned Americans against the “genuine risk” of returning Trump to power, but he explains why he accepts the results. He also reflects on how history can offer inspiration in this moment.

Meacham, who has advised President Biden and helped him draft speeches, assesses the institutional guardrails that could constrain Trump in a second term–and tells Hoover why he fears they will not.

Meacham responds to calls from conservatives for Biden to pardon Trump and reflects on whether Trump’s norm-shattering behavior and election denial will prove to be an aberration in American history or a new status quo.

Support for “Firing Line for Margaret Hoover” is provided by Robert Granieri, Henry & Vanessa Cornell, The Fairweather Foundation, and Al & Kathy Hubbard. Corporate funding is provided by Stephens Inc.