'He’s at the Peak of His Power Right Now': Experts Share Insights on Trump 2.0
For journalists who have been following Donald Trump for an extended period, the second transition appears markedly different compared to eight years prior.
TroibNews 
Donald Trump — now more assertive and in control of the Republican Party than ever, having gained a deeper understanding of government mechanisms since his first shocking election victory eight years ago — is set to return to the White House. However, the nature of this new term may differ significantly from the last one.
To explore how this transition might unfold — particularly during the Senate confirmation hearings for his contentious Cabinet selections, his initial 100 days, and beyond — I gathered insights from PMG colleagues who have closely monitored Trump’s journey: Anita Kumar, Eli Stokols, Kyle Cheney, and Meridith McGraw. Their collective analysis suggests that while Trump remains true to his fractious, unscripted style, the events of January 6, two failed assassination attempts, and various legal challenges have imbued him with an altered sense of confidence. The GOP establishment, they argue, appears less in control of Trump, as he pushes the boundaries of their willingness to resist him.
This moment echoes past instances where Trump's Icarus-like tendencies resulted in difficulties he had to navigate. Yet, as he heads toward what promises to be a contentious term, the 45th and now 47th president carries an air of invincibility.
Our discussion occurred prior to the controversial withdrawal of Matt Gaetz from consideration for Trump’s preferred attorney general role. Still, there remains a plethora of unconventional Cabinet candidates. “He’s daring Senate Republicans to go against him — but he’s also daring the entire government apparatus to defy him,” McGraw noted. “There’s an audacity to all of it.”
Cheney believes that if there is any remaining protective measure, it resides in the fact that the shield his office provides is temporary. “All the forces that were coming for him have been kind of defanged and obliterated,” he observed, “but that doesn’t mean that he’s impervious to them forever.”
This transcript has been edited for length and clarity.
What stands out most as different about Trump’s transition this time compared to the previous one? Is it the selection of candidates, the speed of the process, or something else altogether?
Anita Kumar: After Trump’s first election, many asserted, “You should know what this is like because we’ve experienced it before.” However, I believe the situation is markedly different now. During his previous transition, he had a government-designated office space in Washington where the press was permitted to attend. There were press calls and some conferences with Trump. The media saw the various candidates interviewing for jobs, giving the whole process a different feel than what we witness now, which is largely limited to social media and press releases. We haven’t had a press conference from him, nor has his transition staff engaged with us. The pace of announcing picks is significantly swifter than before.
The candidates chosen also differ. Previously, he nominated individuals he barely knew, many of whom were establishment figures. While some may reject that notion, they were more familiar Republicans compared to those he’s selecting now—people he knows personally, who have been loyal allies for a while.
Meridith McGraw: The spectacle of both transitions has been striking. As Anita mentioned, the initial round welcomed a parade of individuals to Trump Tower. There was much speculation regarding who would receive picks or have meetings with Trump — a fanfare highlighted by moments of humiliation for figures like Mitt Romney. In 2016, Trump seemed unsure about what he was doing.
Now, the process largely occurs behind closed doors, save for the occasional social media glimpse or when Trump has invited the press into his announcements. His newfound confidence is apparent; he understands government better, knows how to exert influence, and this translates into his choices. The selected individuals not only exhibit loyalty but also reflect his challenge to Senate Republicans and the broader government structure. An adviser framed it well: “Look, he survived two assassination attempts, he’s been indicted how many times — he really is at this moment feeling kind of invincible and sort of emboldened in a way that he never has before.” That audacity is evident in his selections.
Kyle Cheney: In 2016, it felt as though Trump was being managed by others. The RNC infrastructure seemed to drive the decisions, with Trump being restrained from his more extreme impulses. This time, however, he appears to be the one leading the charge, driving his team more toward his instinctual methods and decisions.
Eli Stokols: The initial shock of Trump’s victory in 2016 resulted in an uncomfortable merging of Trump and the RNC establishment. Now, after eight years, Trump has effectively absorbed the party establishment; he has become the establishment. With a long-planned campaign, the present atmosphere exudes greater confidence. This isn’t a merger; it’s a takeover, and it occurred over the previous eight years as many have adjusted to align better with Trump’s preferences.
Returning to Trump’s world following four years covering his rival’s administration, I’ve noticed many enduring similarities. Boris Epshteyn remains influential in Trump’s ear, and the familiar proxy battles among staff continue. Despite the semblance of a more organized operation, it still possesses that spontaneous, chaotic essence.
What differences do you perceive in Trump himself compared to eight years ago?
Eli Stokols: He remains fundamentally the same individual, known for his lengthy, unpredictable rally speeches. However, it seems he has matured somewhat. His experiences over the past eight years, the challenges he faced, and running three times might have imparted a sense of peace and invincibility. While he won’t morph into a conventional president who adheres to traditional norms, he seems less tormented than before.
I’m intrigued to hear Meridith’s thoughts on whether he remains motivated by grievances or if he might react more calmly to criticism this time around.
Anita Kumar: We've compiled a list of individuals he intends to target on Day 1.
Eli Stokols: It appears inevitable that this term will be marked by a revenge tour. Nonetheless, Trump may display some restraint.
Meridith, do you think “subdued” is a fitting description for Trump in this context?
Meridith McGraw: Reflecting on the past four years, the nation faced a pandemic during the last campaign. Trump couldn’t embody the entertaining persona he often adopted. However, now he’s engaging in high-profile events and enjoying himself. While revenge and grievances are part of Trump’s identity, he seems genuinely to be relishing this moment.
What about the potential differences stemming from Susie Wiles compared to Reince Priebus?
Kyle Cheney: The key difference is Trump himself. Susie Wiles stands out as a somewhat conventional political operative yet doesn’t seem likely to manage Trump. In 2016, Reince faced greater challenges in containing Trump’s erratic tendencies, but those restraints appear diminished this time around.
Eli Stokols: The dynamics within the previous administration were notably polarized, with factions represented by figures like Steve Bannon or Jared and Ivanka. Now, it seems less divisive, fostering the possibility of a more unified operation under Wiles' leadership.
Do you think Trump has effectively shifted perceptions of acceptable nominees?
Kyle Cheney: There’s an evident shift in what is considered acceptable, driven by his understanding of power dynamics and a willingness to challenge senators on their willingness to confront nominees once deemed extreme.
The audacious nominees may distract from other outrageous actions unrelated to his Cabinet choices.
Anita Kumar: The normalization of the extraordinary over the past years has altered media focus. For instance, the notion of a convicted felon running for president is now a reality that’s taken in stride.
Will every nominee face confirmation?
Kyle Cheney: Given the unconventional nature of today's political climate, traditionally unconfirmed nominees are expected, and contentious battles likely await. Whether the Senate has the fortitude to reject multiple nominees remains to be seen.
Eli Stokols: Recent years have conditioned the party to bend to Trump’s influence despite his impeachments and legal entanglements. The reality is that if he desires significant change, he will make the effort; it’s unsurprising that he might push limits.
Kyle Cheney: While certain senators might resist, the Senate is typically less susceptible to his persona compared to other institutions.
That’s likely why he’s proactively testing the waters with them.
Kyle Cheney: We’ll soon discover how susceptible they are and if traditional norms still apply, as different senators will have differing calculations based on evolving party dynamics.
Eli Stokols: Some members, particularly those facing reelection challenges, may navigate more cautiously given the changing political landscape.
A broader dynamic suggests the electorate has grown weary of upheaval. Many citizens seem indifferent to Trump’s actions and have acclimated to his transgressions.
Anita Kumar: Reports indicate that his supporters revel in his nonconformity; they appreciate his outlandish nominees.
Should any nominees be rejected, how might Trump portray it?
Kyle Cheney: There is a potential for backlash from the online MAGA community against senators who oppose his choices, but it’s unclear how much sénators would heed those threats, given the complexities involved.
What do you expect will differentiate Trump’s second term from the first?
Meridith McGraw: The return of familiar faces stands out, indicating continuity amid some new additions. Ultimately, Trump’s deeper understanding of government will facilitate his agendas this time around.
Anita Kumar: We’re witnessing a continuation of familiar personnel, contrasting with his previous lack of infrastructure. He is now equipped with a more cohesive RNC team, reinforcing the idea that he will follow through on his articulated plans.
Eli Stokols: The presence of influential figures like Elon Musk will add a layer of intrigue. Musk’s participation could lead to competition among advisers, as well as potential conflicts of interest or clashes over policies.
Can you project any self-imposed boundaries this time?
Kyle Cheney: Self-preservation has always been at the core of Trump’s decisions. The current sense of invincibility may momentarily shelter him from accountability, but he remains vulnerable to consequences; crossing certain lines could reignite scrutiny.
Indeed, many of these checks have previously failed to restrain him.
Kyle Cheney: That's valid. However, he has been fortunate so far. If he strays too far into criminality, there are still potential repercussions he cannot evade indefinitely.
What’s your boldest prediction for the next four years?
Kyle Cheney: I’m uncertain whether, should Democrats retake the House, they will opt to impeach him again, or if they’ll avoid that confrontation out of fear.
Eli Stokols: I anticipate everything will run smoothly, and he’ll unite the country.
Meridith McGraw: The only consistent aspect of Trump is his unpredictability, which we’ve been reminded of recently. Given his recent victory, we should expect multiple surprises in the coming years.As Trump prepares to take office, the dynamics inside his administration will be closely monitored. The interplay between seasoned advisers and newer figures is likely to shape policies and the overall tone of the administration significantly. Observers are particularly interested in how Trump's relationships with influential figures, including potential clashes of personality and policy goals, may evolve during this term.
One critical area of focus will be how Trump’s administration responds to ongoing legal challenges and investigations. With multiple prosecutions hanging over him, how he manages these situations could define his second term. Will he wield his political capital to push through controversial nominees while simultaneously asserting his authority over potential rivals within the Republican Party? Or will he find himself navigating a more intricate political landscape, where every misstep could have serious ramifications?
Furthermore, Trump's past has indicated a penchant for confrontation, making it reasonable to assume that if he feels hemmed in or challenged, he may lash out against both allies and adversaries alike. Analysis of his previous term demonstrates that Trump's instincts often led him to take bold, sometimes reckless actions when cornered. As he faces a Senate that may not be as compliant as he hopes, this could lead to a volatile political environment.
With Trump reinstated in an era marked by significant polarization and division, the stakes are higher than ever. His administration’s approach to contentious issues, ranging from immigration reform to healthcare and economic policy, will likely ignite fierce debates. These topics have long been among Trump’s rallying cries and are expected to feature prominently as he seeks to galvanize both his base and undecided voters.
As the details of Trump’s Cabinet selections unfold, the broader Republican Party will have to reconcile their strategies with Trump’s vision. Party leaders may be torn between supporting the former president and mitigating the risks associated with his more extreme nominations. Historical patterns suggest that the Senate often serves as a moderating force, but within today’s landscape, that role may face unprecedented challenges.
Meanwhile, Trump's supporters are likely to remain enthusiastic, rallying behind his agenda. The fervor among his base has generally remained unwavering, emboldened by their leader's willingness to defy political norms. However, how this enthusiasm translates into support for controversial nominees remains to be seen, especially as intra-party disagreements emerge.
While some Republicans may feel pressured to align with Trump’s more audacious approach, moderate members may push back, citing concerns over electability in future elections. This tension could be exacerbated by the 2024 election cycle approaching, which will further complicate the dynamics at play. The additional layer of Cold War-style political maneuvering may shape the landscape leading into primaries, influencing which candidates are willing to align closely with Trump’s agenda.
In addition to domestic policy battles, Trump's foreign policy stance will warrant attention. His previous term was marked by a distinct shift in America’s global engagement. Expectations are that he'll continue down a path of prioritizing “America First.” How this manifests in dealings with traditional allies and global adversaries will be pivotal not just for the U.S. but for international relations as a whole.
As the prospect of another contentious season of governance looms, the political environment is charged. Observers expect Trump to assert his desires aggressively, seeking a bold return to power while testing the boundaries of what’s acceptable both within his party and the broader political spectrum.
Looking ahead, it’s critical to consider how Trump's return will shape not just his presidency, but the Republican Party and the country overall. As history shows, Trump’s leadership often leads to significant shifts, catalyzing transformative, sometimes tumultuous changes. The next four years promise to be marked by unpredictability and dramatic political theater, and every move will be scrutinized.
As we continue to analyze the impending transition and its implications, the discourse surrounding Trump’s presidency will remain lively—and perhaps contentious—as Americans grapple with the evolving landscape of their political reality. Observing how past patterns intersect with current events will be vital for understanding the unfolding narrative of the next chapter in Trump’s political saga.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
To explore how this transition might unfold — particularly during the Senate confirmation hearings for his contentious Cabinet selections, his initial 100 days, and beyond — I gathered insights from PMG colleagues who have closely monitored Trump’s journey: Anita Kumar, Eli Stokols, Kyle Cheney, and Meridith McGraw. Their collective analysis suggests that while Trump remains true to his fractious, unscripted style, the events of January 6, two failed assassination attempts, and various legal challenges have imbued him with an altered sense of confidence. The GOP establishment, they argue, appears less in control of Trump, as he pushes the boundaries of their willingness to resist him.
This moment echoes past instances where Trump's Icarus-like tendencies resulted in difficulties he had to navigate. Yet, as he heads toward what promises to be a contentious term, the 45th and now 47th president carries an air of invincibility.
Our discussion occurred prior to the controversial withdrawal of Matt Gaetz from consideration for Trump’s preferred attorney general role. Still, there remains a plethora of unconventional Cabinet candidates. “He’s daring Senate Republicans to go against him — but he’s also daring the entire government apparatus to defy him,” McGraw noted. “There’s an audacity to all of it.”
Cheney believes that if there is any remaining protective measure, it resides in the fact that the shield his office provides is temporary. “All the forces that were coming for him have been kind of defanged and obliterated,” he observed, “but that doesn’t mean that he’s impervious to them forever.”
This transcript has been edited for length and clarity.
What stands out most as different about Trump’s transition this time compared to the previous one? Is it the selection of candidates, the speed of the process, or something else altogether?
Anita Kumar: After Trump’s first election, many asserted, “You should know what this is like because we’ve experienced it before.” However, I believe the situation is markedly different now. During his previous transition, he had a government-designated office space in Washington where the press was permitted to attend. There were press calls and some conferences with Trump. The media saw the various candidates interviewing for jobs, giving the whole process a different feel than what we witness now, which is largely limited to social media and press releases. We haven’t had a press conference from him, nor has his transition staff engaged with us. The pace of announcing picks is significantly swifter than before.
The candidates chosen also differ. Previously, he nominated individuals he barely knew, many of whom were establishment figures. While some may reject that notion, they were more familiar Republicans compared to those he’s selecting now—people he knows personally, who have been loyal allies for a while.
Meridith McGraw: The spectacle of both transitions has been striking. As Anita mentioned, the initial round welcomed a parade of individuals to Trump Tower. There was much speculation regarding who would receive picks or have meetings with Trump — a fanfare highlighted by moments of humiliation for figures like Mitt Romney. In 2016, Trump seemed unsure about what he was doing.
Now, the process largely occurs behind closed doors, save for the occasional social media glimpse or when Trump has invited the press into his announcements. His newfound confidence is apparent; he understands government better, knows how to exert influence, and this translates into his choices. The selected individuals not only exhibit loyalty but also reflect his challenge to Senate Republicans and the broader government structure. An adviser framed it well: “Look, he survived two assassination attempts, he’s been indicted how many times — he really is at this moment feeling kind of invincible and sort of emboldened in a way that he never has before.” That audacity is evident in his selections.
Kyle Cheney: In 2016, it felt as though Trump was being managed by others. The RNC infrastructure seemed to drive the decisions, with Trump being restrained from his more extreme impulses. This time, however, he appears to be the one leading the charge, driving his team more toward his instinctual methods and decisions.
Eli Stokols: The initial shock of Trump’s victory in 2016 resulted in an uncomfortable merging of Trump and the RNC establishment. Now, after eight years, Trump has effectively absorbed the party establishment; he has become the establishment. With a long-planned campaign, the present atmosphere exudes greater confidence. This isn’t a merger; it’s a takeover, and it occurred over the previous eight years as many have adjusted to align better with Trump’s preferences.
Returning to Trump’s world following four years covering his rival’s administration, I’ve noticed many enduring similarities. Boris Epshteyn remains influential in Trump’s ear, and the familiar proxy battles among staff continue. Despite the semblance of a more organized operation, it still possesses that spontaneous, chaotic essence.
What differences do you perceive in Trump himself compared to eight years ago?
Eli Stokols: He remains fundamentally the same individual, known for his lengthy, unpredictable rally speeches. However, it seems he has matured somewhat. His experiences over the past eight years, the challenges he faced, and running three times might have imparted a sense of peace and invincibility. While he won’t morph into a conventional president who adheres to traditional norms, he seems less tormented than before.
I’m intrigued to hear Meridith’s thoughts on whether he remains motivated by grievances or if he might react more calmly to criticism this time around.
Anita Kumar: We've compiled a list of individuals he intends to target on Day 1.
Eli Stokols: It appears inevitable that this term will be marked by a revenge tour. Nonetheless, Trump may display some restraint.
Meridith, do you think “subdued” is a fitting description for Trump in this context?
Meridith McGraw: Reflecting on the past four years, the nation faced a pandemic during the last campaign. Trump couldn’t embody the entertaining persona he often adopted. However, now he’s engaging in high-profile events and enjoying himself. While revenge and grievances are part of Trump’s identity, he seems genuinely to be relishing this moment.
What about the potential differences stemming from Susie Wiles compared to Reince Priebus?
Kyle Cheney: The key difference is Trump himself. Susie Wiles stands out as a somewhat conventional political operative yet doesn’t seem likely to manage Trump. In 2016, Reince faced greater challenges in containing Trump’s erratic tendencies, but those restraints appear diminished this time around.
Eli Stokols: The dynamics within the previous administration were notably polarized, with factions represented by figures like Steve Bannon or Jared and Ivanka. Now, it seems less divisive, fostering the possibility of a more unified operation under Wiles' leadership.
Do you think Trump has effectively shifted perceptions of acceptable nominees?
Kyle Cheney: There’s an evident shift in what is considered acceptable, driven by his understanding of power dynamics and a willingness to challenge senators on their willingness to confront nominees once deemed extreme.
The audacious nominees may distract from other outrageous actions unrelated to his Cabinet choices.
Anita Kumar: The normalization of the extraordinary over the past years has altered media focus. For instance, the notion of a convicted felon running for president is now a reality that’s taken in stride.
Will every nominee face confirmation?
Kyle Cheney: Given the unconventional nature of today's political climate, traditionally unconfirmed nominees are expected, and contentious battles likely await. Whether the Senate has the fortitude to reject multiple nominees remains to be seen.
Eli Stokols: Recent years have conditioned the party to bend to Trump’s influence despite his impeachments and legal entanglements. The reality is that if he desires significant change, he will make the effort; it’s unsurprising that he might push limits.
Kyle Cheney: While certain senators might resist, the Senate is typically less susceptible to his persona compared to other institutions.
That’s likely why he’s proactively testing the waters with them.
Kyle Cheney: We’ll soon discover how susceptible they are and if traditional norms still apply, as different senators will have differing calculations based on evolving party dynamics.
Eli Stokols: Some members, particularly those facing reelection challenges, may navigate more cautiously given the changing political landscape.
A broader dynamic suggests the electorate has grown weary of upheaval. Many citizens seem indifferent to Trump’s actions and have acclimated to his transgressions.
Anita Kumar: Reports indicate that his supporters revel in his nonconformity; they appreciate his outlandish nominees.
Should any nominees be rejected, how might Trump portray it?
Kyle Cheney: There is a potential for backlash from the online MAGA community against senators who oppose his choices, but it’s unclear how much sénators would heed those threats, given the complexities involved.
What do you expect will differentiate Trump’s second term from the first?
Meridith McGraw: The return of familiar faces stands out, indicating continuity amid some new additions. Ultimately, Trump’s deeper understanding of government will facilitate his agendas this time around.
Anita Kumar: We’re witnessing a continuation of familiar personnel, contrasting with his previous lack of infrastructure. He is now equipped with a more cohesive RNC team, reinforcing the idea that he will follow through on his articulated plans.
Eli Stokols: The presence of influential figures like Elon Musk will add a layer of intrigue. Musk’s participation could lead to competition among advisers, as well as potential conflicts of interest or clashes over policies.
Can you project any self-imposed boundaries this time?
Kyle Cheney: Self-preservation has always been at the core of Trump’s decisions. The current sense of invincibility may momentarily shelter him from accountability, but he remains vulnerable to consequences; crossing certain lines could reignite scrutiny.
Indeed, many of these checks have previously failed to restrain him.
Kyle Cheney: That's valid. However, he has been fortunate so far. If he strays too far into criminality, there are still potential repercussions he cannot evade indefinitely.
What’s your boldest prediction for the next four years?
Kyle Cheney: I’m uncertain whether, should Democrats retake the House, they will opt to impeach him again, or if they’ll avoid that confrontation out of fear.
Eli Stokols: I anticipate everything will run smoothly, and he’ll unite the country.
Meridith McGraw: The only consistent aspect of Trump is his unpredictability, which we’ve been reminded of recently. Given his recent victory, we should expect multiple surprises in the coming years.As Trump prepares to take office, the dynamics inside his administration will be closely monitored. The interplay between seasoned advisers and newer figures is likely to shape policies and the overall tone of the administration significantly. Observers are particularly interested in how Trump's relationships with influential figures, including potential clashes of personality and policy goals, may evolve during this term.
One critical area of focus will be how Trump’s administration responds to ongoing legal challenges and investigations. With multiple prosecutions hanging over him, how he manages these situations could define his second term. Will he wield his political capital to push through controversial nominees while simultaneously asserting his authority over potential rivals within the Republican Party? Or will he find himself navigating a more intricate political landscape, where every misstep could have serious ramifications?
Furthermore, Trump's past has indicated a penchant for confrontation, making it reasonable to assume that if he feels hemmed in or challenged, he may lash out against both allies and adversaries alike. Analysis of his previous term demonstrates that Trump's instincts often led him to take bold, sometimes reckless actions when cornered. As he faces a Senate that may not be as compliant as he hopes, this could lead to a volatile political environment.
With Trump reinstated in an era marked by significant polarization and division, the stakes are higher than ever. His administration’s approach to contentious issues, ranging from immigration reform to healthcare and economic policy, will likely ignite fierce debates. These topics have long been among Trump’s rallying cries and are expected to feature prominently as he seeks to galvanize both his base and undecided voters.
As the details of Trump’s Cabinet selections unfold, the broader Republican Party will have to reconcile their strategies with Trump’s vision. Party leaders may be torn between supporting the former president and mitigating the risks associated with his more extreme nominations. Historical patterns suggest that the Senate often serves as a moderating force, but within today’s landscape, that role may face unprecedented challenges.
Meanwhile, Trump's supporters are likely to remain enthusiastic, rallying behind his agenda. The fervor among his base has generally remained unwavering, emboldened by their leader's willingness to defy political norms. However, how this enthusiasm translates into support for controversial nominees remains to be seen, especially as intra-party disagreements emerge.
While some Republicans may feel pressured to align with Trump’s more audacious approach, moderate members may push back, citing concerns over electability in future elections. This tension could be exacerbated by the 2024 election cycle approaching, which will further complicate the dynamics at play. The additional layer of Cold War-style political maneuvering may shape the landscape leading into primaries, influencing which candidates are willing to align closely with Trump’s agenda.
In addition to domestic policy battles, Trump's foreign policy stance will warrant attention. His previous term was marked by a distinct shift in America’s global engagement. Expectations are that he'll continue down a path of prioritizing “America First.” How this manifests in dealings with traditional allies and global adversaries will be pivotal not just for the U.S. but for international relations as a whole.
As the prospect of another contentious season of governance looms, the political environment is charged. Observers expect Trump to assert his desires aggressively, seeking a bold return to power while testing the boundaries of what’s acceptable both within his party and the broader political spectrum.
Looking ahead, it’s critical to consider how Trump's return will shape not just his presidency, but the Republican Party and the country overall. As history shows, Trump’s leadership often leads to significant shifts, catalyzing transformative, sometimes tumultuous changes. The next four years promise to be marked by unpredictability and dramatic political theater, and every move will be scrutinized.
As we continue to analyze the impending transition and its implications, the discourse surrounding Trump’s presidency will remain lively—and perhaps contentious—as Americans grapple with the evolving landscape of their political reality. Observing how past patterns intersect with current events will be vital for understanding the unfolding narrative of the next chapter in Trump’s political saga.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
