Today’s note is going to be shorter than usual. I woke up this morning with an unshakable feeling that Donald Trump is winning. Yes, his poll numbers continue to hit new lows. His signature piece of legislation — the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” — is so unpopular that Republicans are trying to change its name. Democrats continue to overperform in special elections.

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September 29, 2025

Today’s note is going to be shorter than usual.

I woke up this morning with an unshakable feeling that Donald Trump is winning. Yes, his poll numbers continue to hit new lows. His signature piece of legislation — the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” — is so unpopular that Republicans are trying to change its name. Democrats continue to overperform in special elections.

But as I reflected on what to write to you today, I drew a blank. Despite the events in Portland, the indictment of James Comey, and Missouri’s enactment of a new gerrymandered map, the weekend seemed perfectly normal.

And that feeling of normalcy horrifies me.

As I stare at my computer screen to write this column, I fear I am becoming desensitized to Trump’s authoritarianism. Have I become worn down? Am I the frog sitting in a pot of water that is slowly heating?

I tell myself this isn’t a real problem — that I remain as vigilant and clear-eyed as ever. I justify it by saying everyone needs a break. I remind myself that I spent the weekend with my family’s new puppy, Blue.

Yet I’m still worried.

If I have started to tune out Trump’s daily attacks on the rule of law, individual rights, and democracy, I assume others must be as well. We can’t allow ourselves to fall into the trap of normalcy. That’s exactly what Trump wants. The more desensitized to his antics we become, the more power we hand over.

So, my commitment to you is this...

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