Story perspectives

Ken Burns: Founding Fathers Would Fear Trump's Power Shift

12/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ken Burns, the filmmaker, discussed U.S. President Donald Trump’s second administration in a CNN interview.
He warned that Congress has ceded significant authority to the executive branch, even if Trump might challenge democracy.
Burns said the Founding Fathers would be troubled by that concentration.
The extent of Congress's power cession would be the most disturbing aspect.
He praised the Founding Fathers' contributions and suggested disappointment lies in today’s legislative dynamics.

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Story summary

Ken Burns, the filmmaker, discussed U.S. President Donald Trump’s second administration in a CNN interview.
He warned that Congress has ceded significant authority to the executive branch, even if Trump might challenge democracy.
Burns said the Founding Fathers would be troubled by that concentration.
The extent of Congress's power cession would be the most disturbing aspect.
He praised the Founding Fathers' contributions and suggested disappointment lies in today’s legislative dynamics.