In Washington, DC, the government was once trusted and effective, making people happy and secure. This changed dramatically when disruptive forces began undermining the system. Brooke Harrington from Dartmouth College highlights this issue in an article for the New York Times, expressing concern about the consequences of this shift.
1. Unleashed Instability:
Harrington states that under President Trump’s influence, initiatives like Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency have destabilized essential federal systems, threatening public trust and safety.
2. Historical Comparison:
She compares the current situation to Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, suggesting that instead of improving institutions, the current administration is dismantling them, leading to a crisis of trust in the government.
3. Faith in Institutions:
Trust in complex government systems and civil service has historically helped the U. S. recover from crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic. Harrington argues this trust is vital for societal and economic prosperity.
4. Skepticism of Government:
The article suggests a critical view of Harrington's optimistic portrayal of government, asserting that this perspective stems from a progressive belief in technocracy, where experts guide decision-making.
5. Pandemic Response:
The response to COVID-19 highlighted distrust among citizens toward the government’s decisions, with many believing that more government intervention, like lockdowns and school closings, was misguided.
6. FDR's Legacy:
Contrary to Harrington's assertion that FDR restored trust in institutions, critics argue he concentrated power in the executive branch, undermining trust in the private sector and increasing skepticism towards the government.
7. Concerns Over DOGE:
Harrington claims Elon Musk's DOGE initiative threatens trust; however, evidence suggests the Biden administration engaged in questionable practices with taxpayer funds, raising further distrust.
8. Corruption Allegations:
Critics argue that governmental corruption has affected various institutions, and while Harrington critiques Trump and Musk's actions, she overlooks significant issues within the current administration.
9. Progressive Ideologies:
The article ends with a reference to a tension within progressivismbetween uplifting disadvantaged groups and controlling those viewed as a threat. This implies a divide in approach to governance.
Harrington’s portrayal of government reflects an elitist view lacking critical insight into current challenges. As the nation confronts growing distrust and corruption, it remains essential to understand the implications of these shifts on the political landscape and society’s faith in governance. The hope is that political changes will lead to a more accountable and trustworthy government in the future.
https://mises.org/mises-wire/trump-not-destroying-institutions-thats-what-fdr-did
Comments
Post a Comment