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In her latest work, *The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government*, Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor and current law professor, draws a stark comparison between Donald Trump’s leadership and the workings of a mafia regime. Through meticulous analysis, she argues that Trump’s presidency has eroded democratic norms, fostering a culture of corruption, cruelty, and chaos reminiscent of organised crime.
A Dark Parallel
McQuade begins her narrative by referencing a pivotal scene from *The Godfather*, where the character Vito Corleone emphasises the principle of loyalty through favours and favours returned. This, she suggests, reflects Trump’s approach to governance. “Every time he does somebody a favour, whether it’s an appointment or something else, he expects there to be a quid pro quo,” she asserts. By drawing this parallel, McQuade sets the tone for her examination of how Trump’s methods mirror those of a mob boss, using power and influence to manipulate and control.
The author, who previously served as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, has a track record of prosecuting high-profile cases, including corruption and terrorism. Now, she turns her prosecutorial lens on the White House, arguing that Trump’s tactics have undermined the principles of democracy. She states, “He uses his power to try to control others, especially would-be critics,” highlighting a pattern of intimidation and retaliation against those who oppose him.
Corruption, Cruelty, and Chaos
McQuade identifies three defining characteristics of the Trump administration: corruption, cruelty, and chaos. She describes the corruption as blatant, citing instances such as Trump’s pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots and his ties to wealthy donors seeking favourable government action. “The fix is in,” she insists, illustrating how Trump has manipulated systems to consolidate power.
Cruelty, according to McQuade, is a central theme of Trump’s rhetoric and policies. She describes how the administration has dehumanised immigrants through derogatory language and actions, providing examples that include cruel memes and an alarming web page intended to vilify undocumented individuals. “The effect is to chip away at our humanity,” she laments, arguing that such behaviour is a departure from the values long held by the United States.
The chaos of the Trump administration is further exacerbated by a prioritisation of loyalty over expertise in key appointments. McQuade notes that the selection of individuals for significant roles has often been determined by their allegiance rather than their qualifications, leading to a government that lacks competence in critical areas, particularly in the context of a global pandemic.
A Call to Action
Despite the grim assessment of the current political landscape, McQuade offers a glimmer of hope through civic engagement and grassroots activism. She references research indicating that sustained peaceful protests can lead to significant political change, highlighting examples of community mobilisation that illustrate the power of collective action.
McQuade encourages citizens to take an active role in their democracy, from running for local office to participating in campaigns and joining organisations dedicated to combatting misinformation. “We need to get back to governing for the majority of the people,” she urges, emphasising the importance of collaboration across political divides. By fostering alliances between progressives and rural populists, she believes that meaningful change can be achieved.
Why it Matters
McQuade’s analysis underscores the urgent need for vigilance in protecting democratic values in America. By framing Trump’s governance as a threat to the nation’s foundational principles, she calls for a collective awakening among citizens to reclaim their democracy. Her book serves as both a cautionary tale and a rallying cry, reminding Americans that the power to challenge corruption and restore integrity lies in their hands. As the political landscape continues to evolve, *The Fix* offers a crucial perspective on the implications of leadership styles that prioritise loyalty and control over the rule of law and democratic norms.