'Don't give up on American democracy' after Trump's re-election, says Bob Woodward | 7.30

[@ph_low628]

He hasn’t changed in 78 years. He won’t change now. Please do not give him the benefit of the doubt.

[@Enlight_Entertain]

It's like toxic relationship hoping for change :D

[@swaminic]

Agreed.

[@Team33Team33]

Well said. And it's a simple FACT.

[@michaelhermiston]

his narcissistic nature makes him easily manipulated and the surrounding sycophants have a definite right wing and xenophobic agenda; that combination definitely precludes Donny changing in a positive way.

[@timloo6191]

Haaaaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiiya

[@rhealajoie2204]

Bob, He has no other more noble part of himself to 'rise above' to. The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. His past behavior shows a consistent pattern. Yes, people, even old men can change, but ONLY if they want to. His more darker desires will triumph. I am a psychologist who worked in Corrections for 20 years. I have met many men with the same traits as Trump. Now, these traits will be unleashed.

[@subobing3551]

And right now I’m really despising all the idiots who voted for him

[@buzz4346]

The American people never said, "We trust you to do the right thing." They said, "We trust you will do what you said you were going to do." The difference is monumental.

[@traceyhordern222]

Bob's optimism regarding Trump does not hold true for a man in his late 70s - a man with serious mental health problems. He's clearly a malignant narcissist anyone remotely paying attention saw that years ago. It sounds like Bob is staving off Trump's desire for revenge, given Bob would be on that list. Personally, I hope those that voted for Trump feel pain - and soon. The sooner they do, the greater the chance that they realise that Trump is dangerous and they were totally conned. Trump was never the answer / solution for their problems, he clearly cares for no one but himself.

[@robertjohnston8876]

Perfectly put and also alarming.

[@DonnaMayStanish]

traceyhordern222 - Excellent response! 🎯💯

[@jamesmflynn]

The world is going to feel the pain.

[@dannii_L]

Trump just received the biggest psychological reinforcement for all his recent behaviour over the last 8 years and you think that suddenly and in complete contrast to that reward he'll find a moral compass?

[@sheffrudytke1086]

He can literally do whatever he wants. No can literally stop him. He literally tried to over throw an election. Did not care if his own VP got hung. Stole classfied documents. Yet were elected him to have unlimited power

[@NurseHancockAndFamily]

Exactly! 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@startupdownhome]

It IS possible. We have to hope. If the Dems hadn’t failed so miserably in connecting with the heartland we wouldn’t be in this mess.

[@MegaChallanger]

​@@startupdownhomeif the heartland is willing to vote for a candidate like trump over LITERALLY anyone else... there is no hope at connecting them at all. I think the harsh reality is that most of the country is leaning to the far right.

[@thewayfarer1571]

While you are busy hoping he will be busy being Trump. It’s bollocks that old people change.

[@rsm609]

I get the feeling that Woodward is already eyeing an interview with trump and wanting to keep the door open with him. Trump will not change. If anything, he will be way worse.

[@jenniferc6868]

EXACTLY!!

[@Noddy2750]

2025 Anyone Enjoy America

[@StrangePilgrim1]

There is no cure for who Trump is. There is hope for American democracy to survive, of course, but there is no hope for Trump to be other than who he is.

[@bipolarbear9917]

I think Bob is hoping Trump will see this and be coaxed into being a decent President. There’s also the possibility of Bob trying to wangle more interviews for yet another book on the 47th U.S.President. Unfortunately, it’s a lost cause. The reality is, this is a catastrophic seismic shift in the global geopolitical balance. Nothing good is going to come from this. ‘Everything Trump Touches Dies’ - Rick Wilson (former Republican)

[@alicehurst2234]

I hope not, but I do side with your commentary. Very slim chance of this ending well in my summation.

[@NewhamMatt]

Think about who the most powerful men in the world (and our region) are right now: Donald Trump - USA Narendra Modi - India Xi Jinping - China Prabowo Subianto - Indonesia Vladimir Putin - Russia We are living in interesting times.

[@dyana9673]

Maybe he should call him and tell him he could have a good legacy. Tell him he is handsome and smart.

[@annemariaosullivan2898]

He said Putin was genius when he invaded Ukraine. How UnAmerican

[@Noddy2750]

Putin is Smarter than any politicians in the West

[@beerman204]

The Trump intimidation is already in effect.

[@suegregor4220]

💯

[@cgods2015]

So true. Bob does not want to be rounded up in the fake news retribution of Trump. No need to be rosy eyed about this disaster.

[@subobing3551]

I see it too.

[@s1nd3r3llee]

Yes. I have seen the groveling in many already.

[@swaminic]

What is Woodward talking about? Trump will give Ukraine to Putin

[@sandrahildebrand4283]

This will be a historical moment, ripe for all individuals to play on his narcissism. Maybe Ukraine should offer to name a city after him and some statues, the savior of Ukraine.

[@joanfrellburg4901]

If can redirect the weather, this should be a breeze. No pun intended.

[@Noddy2750]

Putin doesn't want Ukraine or any other countries Putin just doesn't want NATO/America on Russia Doorstep Stop listening to American Propaganda

[@ingeliseolsen1450]

Unfortunately I think you might be right. God knows where else Putin will go next.

[@ethancoster1324]

"Peace in our time".

[@aslkdfjhg]

No sorry i disagree, I don't think he'll change. All of this is his identity.

[@thomasl486]

This is the most stupid and NAIVE i have heard my entire life!. Trump will never change !

[@thewayfarer1571]

I’m shocked at Woodwards naivety. Nothing I mean absolutely nothing points to a compassionate new Trump

[@patjohnson5586]

I wonder how long the bromance between Trump, Musk and JD is going to last, way to many egos for a cozy relationship

[@suegregor4220]

Good point

[@karlaglover8866]

True

[@Lynnstorey-m7d]

Yep

[@Kuhl09]

He’s a narcissist. He can’t do what you’re saying because he only wants power, control, and money.

[@CT-vm4gf]

Exactly, being optimistic is delusional.

[@OrangeClown34]

And i will blame all the bad things that i do on the democrats, believe me

[@agentadent3655]

He's worse than just a narcissist, Trump is a full blown sociopath.

[@cgods2015]

He will take America down to his level. Politics will never in my lifetime be civilised again. America is lost for decades. I will never show my 9 yr old son a speech by him. That is the exact opposite of masculinity I want my son to learn. It a dark day…. Just own up to it Bob!

[@ChristopheSmith]

The USA has become an Oligarchy. 🇺🇲

[@dianewhalen9721]

It already is an oligarchy

[@Lynnstorey-m7d]

Was for decades

[@DrRomaioi]

He wants to fleece the country and not go to jail.

[@viscountslappy5085]

This is actually the best outcome we can hope for. That all Trump's bluster about deportations and military tribunals was BS and he just wants to be in power to stay out of prison and line his pockets.

[@DonnaMayStanish]

Absolutely agree 🎯

[@ehRalph]

Sounds true to form

[@gs2tab]

Optimism? Or just delusion? I've heard a number of people make similar optimistic claims about Trump somehow changing, but they really don't understand psychology.

[@Yppengasse28]

Exactly, narcissists don't change, they only become more narcissistic. America needs to understand what it means to have a narcissist in control. Not even MAGA will like it in the end.

[@cgods2015]

They are getting afraid of being on the enemy list. Should we not trust T‘s words he will round up his enemies ?

[@carlettesouthern-robert2992]

Woodward says he never listened with his brain. TFG will NOT change. Bob Woodward tells the truth about the insanity of TFG; and, then Woodward talks himself into delusion!

[@alexios__]

Wow, Sarah. You let Bob sit there spouting utter falsehoods that there was no US involvement in war during Trump’s first term. Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen? Any of these ringing a bell?

[@carlettesouthern-robert2992]

I was amazed by the same thing. Is Bob Woodward that deluded. Yes, we were at war under Trump!

[@maryd6745]

Yea, more of the same old blinders treatment we've had for the past decade, more or less.

[@fallbrkgrl]

American here. I don't believe that Trump will change. As others have stated, personality disorders just don't go away. I'm sorry Mr Woodward, I just can't buy in the your misguided optimism. This is just insane.

[@andrewcampsie4285]

I'm Australian America should be ashamed of it self .

[@Omanjefferson]

Half of us are.

[@alibobo2009]

It's not all of us!

[@SeanSheep-sy3tm]

Be careful. Australia is heading in the same direction.

[@ajcraft-hello]

Half of us are, of the other half💔🇺🇸

[@blythebrock600]

I’m very ashamed that there are so many fake hating nutcases who vote against themselves

[@wisu3529]

Sorry Bob, that’s the end of America. Nixon was a Boy Scout compared to Trump.

[@wlhansen2068]

Exactly, it's dark times ahead

[@ikiruyamamoto1050]

Laughably wrong! 🤡🤡🤡

[@patbrennan6572]

I'd say he was only a cub scout compared to trump.

[@gregoryedwards8918]

Sounds like Bob wants to be in Trump’s good graces.

[@InvisibleWarrior279]

And the real prize here is Vance who will make even Trump look like not the devil.

[@rickgreen9936]

A classic state of denial. No good will be coming out of trump's presidency because it's trump.

[@taleinz1]

Time will tell . He fought hard so he wouldn’t go to jail .

[@carmenlewis2599]

Trump wants to remake this country in his own image..he is insane bob🙄

[@A_Free_Spirit_]

This guy doesn't understand personality disorders.

[@wisu3529]

And Trump’s followers are as deluded as he is.

[@brucereinhart5076]

Sadly, Mr. Woodward has completely lost the plot. Too much wishful thinking.

[@wisu3529]

Bob is as deluded as Trump. Living in a fantasy world if he thinks Trump can change

[@philliphogan9002]

Bob Woodward is from the can we all just get along crowd sick!

[@SaschaRobitzki]

Bob is selling books. He needs to keep the door open. That's the purpose of post-election interviews.

[@sifisokaula1870]

​@@wisu3529I fully agree with you.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Sorry Bob, you are totally naive. Wake up.

[@jeremybartlett1706]

Maybe he will do something… memorable. MEMORABLE??!!! Gtfoh

[@NewhamMatt]

Sadly true. He understands so much about Trump. He seems to be in denial because the alternative is either too terrible to mention or not worth mentioning; there is no hope to be found there.

[@nekogaijin]

$$$$$ he wants to keep his foot in the door. Shameful.

[@DonnaMayStanish]

nekogaijin - Woodward smells another series of interviews and another book.

[@tigereye517]

Narcissist do not change.

[@agentadent3655]

I've given up on my fellow American's character & morality.

[@WM-jy9dz]

... the only change will be: it will be even worse!

[@jaaksavat7916]

Project 25 here I come

[@murrayeldred3563]

MUCH OF The West think American politics is dystopian.

[@iainherridge6253]

No Bob, American politics is just a REALLY bad reality show NOW⁉️

[@amyrugala246]

Sorry Bob, he is not going to rise above. He is only going to get worse. We can only hope there are enough compassionate humans amongst us to help each other survive this new political landscape.

[@Jasul_]

American democracy gave up on itself in dreams of cheaper petrol and eggs

[@VodShod]

funny thing is trump is going to make those prices go sky high.

[@bobthebuilder9509]

@@VodShodAnd yet those stupid people who scream “LEOPARDS ATE MY FACE” will in the same breath blame Democrats. Disgusting.

[@alanomeara9439]

If the cost of living is to decrease that’s called deflation. The cost of living will only improve if wages rise more than inflation. Trump and the GOP won’t allow that to happen. He doesn’t like to pay anyone. Hopefully in the end Trump voters will realise they’ve been conned

[@philliphogan9002]

That’s right absolutely

[@tino6846]

You are history’s losers 😂

[@richardlum8558]

Speeches were written for him for the occasions and I don’t believe he knew and capable to understand what he read. He will never change but good luck to Bob’s optimism.

[@themountainwanderer]

Correct. Listen to him when he speaks off the cuff. He has a vocabulary of a few hundred words. Can't even form complete sentences.

[@busterbrown446]

Bob chose book profits over the country. He could've gone to a mic and revealed this info right away, but he chose to keep it for his book. All of the people who said nothing have to live with their part in this travesty.

[@tomlund4951]

A Moral felony of the highest order… “ it is what it is”… Thanks Bob!

[@lewy1]

They have been saying for 9 years that he will change and he never has, it’s just pure stupidity to think he will change.

[@roysmith3725]

HE JUST GOT HIS GET OUT OF JAIL FREE CARD.

[@RicardoRoams]

Sorry, but after having Trump on the scene for nearly 10 years and now another 4 years in the White House, I've given up on America. The fact that so many could want such a flawed man as their President again, demonstrates that America doesn't value ethics, morals or character. Trump will never change. Woodward thought Trump was going to lose so he could say whatever he wanted about Trump, however critical, in his last book. But now that Trump unexpectantly won, Woodward is selling out in order to get on Trump's good side by suddenly saying nice things. He wants the chance for another book on Trump.

[@celiakane793]

“Peoples characters tend to not shift later in life.”

[@marciawade8813]

Before voting for Trump, his voters should have had the decency of remembering those unnecessary Covid deaths & read Woodward''s books & essays.

[@patriciawickman4687]

That would require empathy.

[@Carol-db8tr]

I can't believe he has hope that trump will change

[@sifisokaula1870]

Bob is deceiving himself. The leopard will never change.

[@2cleverxhalf]

Trump has to be sentenced yet.

[@andrewharvey3282]

Does Woodward lack the self-awareness to realize that, in context, he's eulogizing President Trump's historic comeback by quoting Nixon

[@tippymarie]

Why didn't Woodward tell us what trump knew about covid?? Surely I can't be the only person who wonders about that!

[@kathypiazza7228]

The true “Religion” of the USA is Capitalism. Like all religions there’s a sliding scale, if you like, some have rules & limits to how you make your fortune, others it’s clear that no matter what you do it’s ok if it makes you a Buck. Fame is attached to the big Buck earners (grabbers). Mr. Woodward kept very important information under wraps until his books were published, he has to live with that. Possibly his argument that Trump will change for the greater good is more hopeful thinking so he can be absolved of his selfishness.

[@Fomites]

I don't know how Bob can be optimistic. Trump has a proven bad record and he seems to be getting worse.

[@OR10777BE]

21:25 Trump can only do what Trump is capable of doing; we cannot imagine a snake can be anything but a snake. And we cannot blame the snake for being a snake. We can blame Americans for electing Trump into office again and when this creature who responds instinctively and vengefully only to circumstances he believes he can control, and ignores those situations he cannot imagine controlling, we will look at Americans and be cognisant of their dereliction of responsibility as ‘players’ on the world stage.

[@emilschattner3407]

Bob Woodward's wishful thinking reminds me of a story when a scorpion tries to convince a frog to help him crossing a pond. The frog knowing the scorpion, was very hesitant, and told the scorpion, I don't trust you won't bite me. No, no said the scorpion, I can't do that, then both of us would drown. Somehow this made sense to the frog and he agreed to let the scorpion ride on his back for the crossing. As they were in the middle of the pond, the scorpion bit the frog, and both drowned, but before dying, the frog asked the scorpion why he did it. "I couldn't help, said the scorpion, this is my inborn nature". I am sure this is how it will be with Mr. Trump. Hurting others is his inborn nature, and he can not change. The only way, ironically using Trumps own words, "fight like hell" for Americas constitution, democracy, and sanity!

[@deloresosborne2818]

Why did you wait until it was too late; just like everyone else who worked closely with Trump? Shame on all of you!

[@barbaracarten3265]

As an American, I’m not giving up on democracy but if you think Trump is going to stand by democracy, you’re out of your mind.

[@sandraadams6204]

I not only gave up on it--I left the US and immigrated to another country. Being allowed the right to settle in the UK is one of the luckiest things that has happened to me.

[@fallbrkgrl]

I just can't finish this interview. This is insane.

[@geofftefl]

Sarah Ferguson is an awesome interviewer, this is a first class example of her ability.

[@markpimlott2879]

YES; Sarah was sensitive and insightful, without intruding her viewpoint into this interesting psychological investigation. Bob isn't deluded or naive about DRUMPH. He just refuses to predict a dark and dismal future! Facing such a dangerous presidential term, we all lose our power if we surrender our optimism AND RESOLVE! Surrendering to pessimism and cynicism would be a losing 📉 😕 🤔 😔 proposition! Clearly, however, he does greatly fear the worst for the USA, at least during his final years! 🇨🇦 🍁 🇺🇸 🌎 🇺🇲 🇦🇺 🪃 🇦🇺 🇺🇸 🌎 🇺🇲 🍁 🇨🇦

[@brianambrosemcmahon8531]

She is world class .

[@seanwilliams4087]

He thinks he is perfect - a very stable genius - I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for an epiphany.

[@goodguy2627]

There is a saying. "Every nation deserves its government". I cannot find a better time and a better reason to use this saying to describe the American nation nowadays. It is time for the European leaders to wake up and realize that USA has changed and probably for many decades ahead. Let the Americans deal with their own confusion and impasse. One they when they need Europe they will realize how important is to keep together and hold together against the growing imperialism around the world. Wake Europe and do what has to be done.

[@davidfowles]

The notion that Trump might “pivot” … are we seriously still entertaining this nonsense?

[@jeremybartlett1706]

No.

[@joanfrellburg4901]

He loves Elon Musk. Need I say more ?

[@lynettesmith6971]

Sorry Bob, I don’t think he is capable of change, though I live in hope that he will😢

[@Spiral.Dynamics]

He didn’t even make it through the speech that Bob quoted.

[@annoyedaussie3942]

It's not really so much about whether he changes it's more a matter of is he capable of carrying through. Starting a worldwide trade war for example may not go so well for anyone.

[@gustaaf1892]

@@annoyedaussie3942 Trump is inheriting a very good economy with inflation dropping rapidly and currently down to 2.4%, record employment numbers, growing manufacturing jobs (which Trump despite his promises failed to deliver) and a record high stock market which is 60% higher than it was when Trump lost the 2020 election. He will stuff that up with his blanket tariffs policy that will increase the average household bills for families by about $4k per year. Mass deportations will have a significant impact on labour supply at a time when there is full employment. Trump is going to be the wrecking ball that will send the economy into reverse and create a recession.

[@emilschattner3407]

good luck with your wish!

[@idamelin]

You are delusional… you give him too much credit.

[@Patrish-gd3ht]

Bob Woodward:To say that trump has an "opportunity to grow" is remarkably naive - even childlike and irresponsible when stated on a channel streaming into another country. And oh yes,, he'll "do something memorable" alright, it's just not going to be anything positive or even neutral. This is such a disappointing interview, Mr. Woodward.

[@riotbunny]

When he talked about Trump's response to COVID, he finally started talking about Trump's true character. Most of this interview he seemed in denial about what a disaster this election result will prove to be.

[@fletcher932]

I'd agree with that.

[@janhughes3296]

Bob, it isn’t “instinct”, it’s called NARCISSISM.

[@stephenlan5450]

Bob, I think we Americans would all be safer in Australia.

[@lindajamroz]

They'll end up turning away many. They won't have a choice, there'll be too many 🥺

[@emilschattner3407]

Democrats only, please!

[@twitchell2682]

Another rich old fart confidently telling us "we'll" be fine. What complete BS.

[@WandaJacksonTN]

Bob cannot possibly believe that. He is probably afraid of being locked up.

[@lynnoble8229]

Oh Bob Woodward, get real!

[@Urgurl514]

This is why we have Trump. They have never just shut him down. They always give in and say let’s give him a chance. This is very concerning

[@theanomaloushousewife886]

STOP with the HOPIUM. He's a monster and will act like one! He's got a MANDATE NOW!

[@patbrennan6572]

Bob , What do you mean don't give up on Democracy ? Democracy is dead in the U.S.A., it can't be brought through an election in 2028, an election that won't take place. All dictatorships lasts for a very long time so the chance of someone my age (71) ever seeing Democracy again is remote at best.

[@margaretderen2082]

I am SO disappointed in Bob Woodward for this!

[@Kiki-p7n4i]

People gave him a chance before. He’s declining now, not rising in his spiritual vibration. And he is now a puppet for the Heritage Foundation. I have doubts he can even fathom what an opportunity this is. He could right his horrendous legacy to be positive. I question if that’s even possible at this stage of his trajectory.

[@jamesmflynn]

Not possible... and being a puppet of the Heritage Foundation makes him worse.

[@myPCselfhelp101]

Respect to Mr. Woodward, but the old Donald Trump is the same Donald Trump, he can't change, he won't change and will never change. That is the nature of a Malignant Narcissist SocialPath. An Aging Narcissist gets even worse.

[@wandam8642]

I used to admire Bob Woodward so much. I don't know what to think about him now but my 78 year old brain is telling me not to have much regard for him after the last few interviews he's given❗ So sad❗

[@robynjeucken3391]

He won't change, but he will peg it one-day, and maybe the spell will break. When he is gone, if things get too bad, people will fight for their rights again, or not. Time will tell.

[@ozhimalayan477cc2]

And then Vance is Pres OMG

[@NewhamMatt]

​@ozhimalayan477cc2 The one good thing about Trump is that his spell is non-transferable. Trumpist candidates, even when Trump himself has endorsed them, have been unable to ride his coattails (hello again Kari Lake). Vance might become president if Trump falls off the perch, but the Trumpist voters won't be ride-or-die for him the way they were for Trump.

[@gnw1264]

@robynjeucken3391 I am skeptical that the spell will break. There are too many like Trump waiting in the wings.

[@anserbauer309]

Oh please..... "even old men can grow and rise above themselves blah blah"? I'd swallow a pollywaffle in a swimming pool before I'll swallow that.

[@juliemissick4206]

Yeah, I’m not buying that one either.

[@mariesrodriguez8680]

Not to be negative, but are you serious?You know why he ran for office.He's tired he doesn't want to be at present.He wants to stay out of prison

[@lucyarroyo6186]

Seriously Woodward you sound like a fool because you know who he is and what he’ll do and it won’t be anything good. Shame on you for even saying what you did.

[@tomstewart2685]

"Isn't American democracy something?" Hang on Bobby boy. There are approximately 346 million people in the USA, with about 239 million eligible to vote. If only 142 million did, then how is that a proper exercise of democracy?

[@lesliehatun2044]

Because, when I speak of him in a positive light, i get interviews and write books. Make 💰

[@Shasta-Daisy98]

I respectfully disagree. Psychiatrists indicate he cannot help but be a malignant narcissist-paranoid, sadistic, pathological lier, criminal, grandiose. You talk, Mr Woodward, as if he’s normal. He’s not. He CANNOT be anything else.

[@nekogaijin]

Shouldn't he have not saved the fascism for his last book? A little too late dude. Shame on you.

[@Eleah-k9s]

Bob Woodward is a good journalist when reporting facts. As an interpreter of those facts, he clearly has a blind eye to Trump's instincts and ability to listen and learn from others or from experience.

[@April-v7c]

You can’t say he will be a dictator if elected and then tell us to have hope once it happens

[@rosieE121]

We had no war only due to General Milley's alertness.

[@AnthonySherritt]

Why would Trump ever change? Things are working PERFECTLY for him and always have.

[@BrianHowald]

My God, Woodward is really out to lunch these days.

[@sunilkuruvilla6811]

"I have to be optimistic," Woodward says repeatedly. And then he repeatedly reveals that optimism is ridiculous when recounting past conversations with Trump.

[@dijaworldworld3895]

They got to Bob Woodard too. Because he sounds delusional. The reporter sensed it too with her last question.

[@SM-bo3pc]

I feel this is Bob Woodward’s personal message to Trump - otherwise I find it hard to believe what he is saying.

[@DFermain]

Sorry?, America gave up its Democracy if that's what is actually happening, or at least started the process. Eyes wide open with a huge popular vote and a huge number of Democrats stay at homes. This is an unassailable fact.

[@firemedic5365]

Bob, I’m a great admirer of yours. But Trump growing and overcoming his instincts? Are you kidding? You’re kidding, right?

[@Mary1393]

I never thought Bob W would think this man called Trump could ever change. His whole life has been about himself. He is a disaster and we need to fight him every step of the way. We need to see this as it is and not try to butter it up.

[@Cholla51]

Sounds like Bob is trying to not be a target in the Drumph, his real sir name in German, dictatorship. “Give him a chance”? WTF Bob! Sounds like you lost your Mojo…

[@Omni0404]

He sounds like Olivander talking about Voldemort. "He did great things. Terrible! But great."

[@rocknrollboise]

This isn't wisdom, it's idiocy.

[@rosediddynorelation4824]

The false hope is what keep us in this cycle of exploitation, and intermediate reinforcement. Let it fall

[@grump9001]

There is absolutely zero hope or reason (in trump's sick mind) for him to change. It won't happen. What a bizarre thing to say Bob.