“Amid the fireworks of his spectacular breakup with Elon Musk last week was a striking admission by President Trump that once could have led to subpoenas,” the New York Times reports.
“As he lashed out at Mr. Musk for disloyalty, Mr. Trump threatened to cut off the billionaire’s federal contracts in retaliation, effectively acknowledging what his critics have long said, that he looks at the government as his personal instrument for dispensing favors to friends and penalizing those who cross him.”
“In the old days, that might have been cause for a corruption investigation. In the modern era, it’s just another Thursday. Mr. Trump has long since abandoned the kinds of rules and traditions that would constrain a president from employing the power of his office to personally steer federal contracts to allies and away from enemies. And even more remarkable, he has no hesitation about saying it out loud.”
For members: The Big Takeaway from the Trump-Musk Feud
?Political Trivia
Eight moments in political history. Put them on a timeline.
Play →
Five senators. Three bills. Can you guess how they all voted?
Play →
Nine Justices. One case. How did they rule?
Play →
Do you have your finger on the pulse of America?
Play →
Four questions a day.
Play →
A new game every day.