Story perspectives

Trump's Second Term: Loyalty Over Law Risks Democracy

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Reed Brody, a former New York Assistant Attorney General and international human rights lawyer, warned that a potential second term for U.S. President Donald Trump could erode checks and balances by elevating loyalty over the rule of law.
He notes Trump's previous term had norms that limited him, but he now believes Trump is more emboldened.
The interview suggests a key consequence: loyalty could overshadow accountability and institutional integrity.

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Story summary

Reed Brody, a former New York Assistant Attorney General and international human rights lawyer, warned that a potential second term for U.S. President Donald Trump could erode checks and balances by elevating loyalty over the rule of law.
He notes Trump's previous term had norms that limited him, but he now believes Trump is more emboldened.
The interview suggests a key consequence: loyalty could overshadow accountability and institutional integrity.