In this provocative article from The New Yorker, the author uses a mix of historical nostalgia and biting commentary to explore President Trump's recent royal rhetoric and actions, comparing his self-coronation antics to the foundational American rejection of monarchy. The piece begins with a personal recollection of Lexington, Massachusetts—“the birthplace of American liberty”—and the revolutionary spirit that led the colonists to oppose Kings, setting the stage for the stark contrast with Trump's apparent embrace of regal power. Trump’s posting on Truth Social—accompanied by his crown and the proclamation “Long Live the King”—serves as the spark for a broader discussion on his attempts to rule by decree, such as his intervention in New York’s congestion pricing and his delegation of spending power to figures like Elon Musk. With a tone equal parts historical admonition and modern political critique, the author questions whether America will allow such monarchical tendencies to undermine its founding ideals.

Key Points:

• Foundational Contrast: The article juxtaposes the American Revolution's rejection of kings with Trump’s recent embrace of monarchical imagery.
• Historical Anecdote: An evocative recounting of Lexington, Massachusetts, and its role in inspiring the American fight for self-rule.
• Royal Rhetoric: Trump’s recent social media post featuring a crown and the statement “Long Live the King,” highlighting his flirtation with regal symbolism.
• Executive Overreach: Discussion of Trump’s actions, including renaming the Gulf of Mexico and challenging local governance in New York through rulings against congestion pricing.
• Critique of Power: The piece underscores how Trump’s gaze for absolute control deviates from the tradition set by American presidents like George Washington, who voluntarily stepped down after two terms.
• Cultural and Political Implications: The article notes that these actions have spurred protests—such as the “No Kings” demonstrations on Presidents’ Day—and stirred debates about the future of America’s democratic ideals.
• Religious and International Dimensions: It also touches on how Trump’s self-assured discourse intertwines with religious rhetoric and has potential ripple effects on U.S. foreign policy, including shifting alliances and priorities.
• Founding Principles at Stake: The narrative asks whether Americans, particularly recent immigrants who cherish the promise of liberty, will stand up to the drift toward autocratic rule.

This blend of historical reflection and contemporary analysis offers a compelling narrative that challenges listeners to consider the erosion—or preservation—of American democratic ideals in the face of emerging monarchical tendencies.
Link to Article