In this all-new episode of The Really American Podcast, host Chip Franklin sits down with veteran political strategist and Lincoln Project co-founder Rick Wilson to dissect the chaos at the heart of American politics and the GOP. As Trumpism continues to reshape the political landscape, Chip and Rick take a hard look at the GOP’s crumbling identity, the mounting economic fallout from their ill-conceived policies, and the cultural battles they stoke that keep the nation divided.

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Rick Wilson lays it out bluntly: the Republican Party has lost its way. Once driven by conservative principles, it now revolves around a cult of personality—Trump’s. 

With no coherent economic or social agenda to fall back on, the GOP is increasingly defined by opportunism and extremism. Whether it’s debates over transgender rights in sports or other divisive issues, Chip and Rick argue that these distractions are deliberately engineered to derail serious policy discussions.

Wilson also warns of the disastrous consequences behind Trump’s tariff strategies and reckless budget policies. What might seem like short-term political theater carries long-term risks—job losses, staggering debt, and even the specter of stagflation. 

Looking forward, the duo turns their attention to the future challenges facing the Democratic Party. Both agree that the key to success in 2028 lies in choosing a moderate, broadly appealing candidate who can steer clear of extreme positions while tackling Trumpism’s influence in the GOP. 

Ultimately, Franklin and Wilson offer more than a dissection of today’s chaos—they deliver a rallying cry for empathy, informed dialogue, and decisive action. In an era marked by deep divides, their conversation is a reminder that only a united, thoughtful populace can steer us toward a fairer, more resilient future.

Thanks for tuning in. Be sure to join us again next time on The Really American Podcast for more deep insights into the forces shaping our nation.