Chris Lehmann, Bureau Chief for The Nation in Washington, D.C., objects to the easy characterization of Trump as a populist by both left and right-leaning media, which misunderstands the term grossly. He explains that the idea of Trump as a populist is a tool in Trump's narrative—one that suggests he’s fighting for “the people.” This plays right into his hand, giving him a cloak of legitimacy that obscures his authoritarian nature.  

The past weeks' barrage of executive orders are keeping most of us, including those in the media, feeling underwater. But we don't have to wait for Trump to set the tone, or the narrative. Instead of responding to Trump, Chris and I discuss what Democrats should be demanding to get control of the narrative right now.  Let me know if you agree with our idea.