There are contradictory signals about President Trump's political strength. On the one hand, his poll numbers are in the basement. On the other hand, he still has the power to punish his Republican enemies, as he just did with Rep. Thomas Massey of Kentucky and Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana.
Clip: Trump's political rampage
May. 22, 2026 AT 8:38 p.m. EDT
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Clip: Hegseth’s turbulent time leading the U.S. military
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has distinguished himself as President Trump’s most pugnacious Cabinet member and as a leading advocate of the war against Iran. He is also someone who is trying to reshape the military according to his own values and beliefs. The panel discusses Hegseth’s turbulent time leading the world’s most powerful military.
Washington Week with the Atlantic, May 22, 2026: Washington Week with The Atlantic full episode, 5/22/26
Full Washington Week with the Atlantic broadcast from May 22, 2026.
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