Story perspectives

Trump's Influence Threatens Democracy, Health, and Lives

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Thomas B. Edsall, a New York Times columnist, argues U.S. President Donald Trump’s influence on the GOP is detrimental.
He says Trump’s actions damage U.S. and global institutions, undermining democratic traditions and public health.
Edsall cites a study showing budget cuts could cause nearly 1.8 million deaths by 2025, especially for children.
He notes rollback of EPA regulations saving over 30,000 lives annually and termination of medical research grants.

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Story summary

Thomas B. Edsall, a New York Times columnist, argues U.S. President Donald Trump’s influence on the GOP is detrimental.
He says Trump’s actions damage U.S. and global institutions, undermining democratic traditions and public health.
Edsall cites a study showing budget cuts could cause nearly 1.8 million deaths by 2025, especially for children.
He notes rollback of EPA regulations saving over 30,000 lives annually and termination of medical research grants.