Lies, Politics and Democracy: Robert Costa (interview) | FRONTLINE

Robert Costa is the chief election and campaign correspondent for CBS News. He previously reported on politics for The Washington Post and is the co-author, with Bob Woodward, of Peril.
The following interview was conducted by the Kirk Documentary Group’s Mike Wiser for FRONTLINE on April 29, 2022. It has been edited for clarity and length.
This interview is being published as part of FRONTLINE’s Transparency Project, an effort to open up the source material behind our documentaries. Explore the transcript of this interview, and others, on the FRONTLINE website: www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/in...
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FRONTLINE is produced at GBH in Boston and is broadcast nationwide on PBS. Funding for FRONTLINE is provided through the support of PBS viewers and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Additional funding is provided by the Abrams Foundation; the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Park Foundation; and the FRONTLINE Journalism Fund with major support from Jon and Jo Ann Hagler on behalf of the Jon L. Hagler Foundation, and additional support from Koo and Patricia Yuen.
CHAPTERS:
Trump and Charlottesville - 0:00:00
Early Claims of Fraud in the 2020 Election - 0:08:23
Cruz’s Political Calculation - 0:21:05
McConnell’s Calculation - 0:28:30
Pressure on Pence - 0:33:05
Jan. 6 and the Aftermath - 0:47:26
Future of the Republican Party - 1:02:42

[@frontline]

Watch the full documentary “Lies, Politics and Democracy” here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/emPIhZx7aNBqmtU

[@catherineireland1755]

Excellent documentary… provides historical context to how Trump managed to craft his relentless disinformation into a populist cult that has hamstrung the GOP, and brought American democracy to the verge of crisis.

[@trifillaratv54]

Yeah I'm waiting for this too so please someone tell us when it gets released.

[@wiwatnuradinsahim5807]

Qep

[@wiwatnuradinsahim5807]

Dcc

[@jbjb5810]

Watch My son Hunter.

[@ericahlevine]

This is a phenomenal interview. I wish every person in the United States was made to watch this interview.

[@user-gh5tz8br5w]

So true and "his people" refuse to see it. I had no idea that people would fall for his lies so easily. Very disappointing to me😢

[@dwaynemoore4247]

There's got to be a way to get it out of ever site in our country There has to a way. Because it will not stay on long.

[@niccolea2086]

I’m not impressed. Sure he laid out some of the details surrounding the insurrection and the big change in the Republican Party but he fell short of actually calling out the Cult and corruption on SOOOOO many levels. What a missed opportunity to be 💯 honest.

[@glendyfolwick7362]

I second!

[@danielaggeler9263]

Thank you Robert Costa! This program should be required watching for American History and American Government classes and clubs. I lived through this period and I learned a lot.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

We dont need the US mainstream media to tell us what "history" is unless you want a fake history. The lies of the US mainstream media these past several years can only be measured on the seismic RIchter Scale.

[@Itsme-jv4cd]

Excellent interview! Narcissists hate losing ,they hate the shame . We need a nation wide program to teach people about narcissism and how damaging it can be. Not only would it help prevent people from voting in another narcissistic politician but it could prevent people from getting into toxic relationships that could ruin their life.

[@sharonwadel7163]

Amen

[@samm928]

How do you like you dictator now with inflation and gas priced doubled if not tripled since Trump left .. Say Hola to you new illegal neighbor for me ..

[@terrym5786]

I have been championing this idea for almost 20 years.

[@Yppengasse28]

Agreed. Trump's behaviors become crystal clear when understood thru the lens of narcissism. And the fact that he's gotten away with narcisstic bullying and rage to get his way for so many years just reinforces to Trump himself that he is indeed, 'entitled'. . . which he's not. Wrong guy to hold the nuke launch codes in my opinion.

[@albertplumer]

Narcissists only run to augment their ego, all there is , no one else no other drive . Nixon to Biden , Biden isn't ? Oh don' t humour me.

[@michaelbraxton2899]

I’m a loyal subscriber and this interview with Robert Costa is an excellent example of Frontline’s ability to showcase the best talent. He’s clear, credible, knowledgeable and persuasive. He speaks in authoritatively in paragraphs that link logically to what most of us believe to be true in the rest of what now passes for news. 🎉 Bravo Frontline!!!

[@mvc9871]

One of the scariest things I have seen since 45 came about. Everyone should go out and vote so this atrocity never happens again.

[@KoolT]

But not anyone too old. Not 80. TRUMP nor Biden 😢

[@mvc9871]

@@KoolT we will have no choice if Democrats give the nomination to Biden. Biden 2024!

[@herbiehusker1889]

​@@mvc9871Biden is the greater of the two evils. Biden is literally the most corrupt, incompetent president in history

[@KhaleesiStJames]

TRUMP 2024… I am NO longer a Democrat!! I’m with the Republicans ❤🎉

[@rolltide2798]

Trump will be your next president! Cry harder commie!

[@kateskeys]

There’s no one more competent in journalism than ROBERT COSTA He has command of the English language more than anyone. ….and he’s a BABY . So young

[@victorrisk6098]

Incredible interview!!! I don’t doubt a single word said. Thank you!!!!!!

[@brucegraner5901]

I think this should be required listening for every citizen of this country who wants to continue to live in a democracy.

[@kateskeys]

I agree. History in the making.

[@albertplumer]

Democracy ? Gerrymandered areas? Like equality?

[@lisasands8530]

SHARE FREELY! Post it on your FB page!

[@lisasands8530]

SHARE THE WHOLE SERIES!!!

[@gunnjorunjungeengelsen6612]

From overseas - even we are listening to this - OMG 😳 what is really going on ‘over there’ !? This is just sad.

[@pissedoffdemocrat4940]

Every citizen of the United States needs to watch this. Some of us twice.

[@Haleygirl7257]

SHARE please ! Vital

[@ginahickman6864]

TOTALLY AGREE...THE FEELING IS MUTUAL!

[@iscovidoveryet7828]

It'd be wasted on Fux notNews viewers. They're too far down the rabbit hole, and just as malignantly narcissistic as trump, to be reasoned with.

[@fredschnerbert1238]

@@iscovidoveryet7828

[@DisgruntledDisabledCombat_Vet]

@@fredschnerbert1238 agreed

[@janicemackie611]

Smart and articulate..how I miss that. Thanks for this, I needed it. Excellent interview! 👏

[@joannehiggins5593]

Great journalism from a man who is telling us the true facts about Tump. Thank you Robert Costa and Frontline. Everyone needs to watch this very important and impressive interview.

[@jennylim1558]

This interview is so fascinating by Robert Costa. Despite the long interview, I was glued till the end because of Robert's engaging style of reporting. It's so compelling and he is so indepth in his analysis and speaks with clarity. The interviewer also asks good questions. Excellent segment, thank you very much.

[@KoolT]

Yep

[@JamesJones-mm2nm]

drumpt is the antichrist and a mad man! Sickening!

[@Mrizing]

You can't tell he's actually acting? And he's a terrible lier very scripted

[@corryjookit7818]

​@@KoolTqz_&🎉😊)

[@samij6071]

And you're a terrible speller@@Mrizing

[@markschneider3915]

As a former Republican I have one word for the party, cowards.

[@jamlittlefield]

You had courage to walk away. Not easy?

[@tracesprite6078]

It's ironic that Trump wants to surround himself with tough military fellows when Trump himself is a flabby man who scoffs down unhealthy take away food.

[@Nighttale233]

@@tracesprite6078 Still more fit than a literal potato we got in the white house who ends with "repeat the line end quote." and gets soled by a flight of stairs.

[@tracesprite6078]

@@Nighttale233 I have deep respect for President Biden.

[@rockrecordreport7136]

@@Nighttale233 We needed an adult in the WH, and calm after ciaos of DT that nearly destroyed our country.

[@ryanratajczak3294]

I'm a Regan republican and after this documentary I weep for this country

[@bgiovannic]

ReAgan

[@phiksit]

Reagan had a lot of horrible policies that still effect us today and he got off with Iran-contra without any consequences, thank to good ol' Bill Lowbarr.

[@dwaynesinclair2155]

To be honest with you. As a black American i can tell you this. Those tears should have started ages ago.

[@bgiovannic]

@@dwaynesinclair2155 Those tears should be a running river by now

[@pjpredhomme7699]

@@dwaynesinclair2155 it's incredible to me that even to this day - people claim their Reagan hero worship - like it had nothing to do with where we are today - it is where it started !

[@mcairborne82]

This is clearly one of the best interviews I have ever seen in my life. High quality questions with high quality answers. This interview along with the one done with Mona Charen are very enlightening.

[@tokesalotta1521]

Yeah, who cares that he's blatantly lying? Anyone who isn't brainwashed knows Trump not only didn't say anything positive about the white supremacists, but he disavowed them. This guy being interviewed isn't even a good liar. Actually, he's a terrible liar. The problem with the public that believes his lies is that Trump had more knowledge of all the happenings than they did. Anyone watching the whole speech knows that he was saying there were good people on both sides of a protest about statues. Then, later, antifa thugs and white supremacist wannabes showed up and started violence.

[@jodywho6696]

This really needs to be available to everyone, in the world✨🇺🇸✨

[@james6901]

it is...Trump still free and causing a civil war...America is screwed till it proves JUSTICE IS FOR ALL,,,,in USA it aint. Greetings from Edinburgh,,,ps Trump is hated over here..our Gov tossed him out,,,his behaviour was not tolerated here.

[@baberRuth]

It's "fake news" to all who still follow the fat golfer w/o a conscience

[@dannyize]

Trump says "my generals" instead of "our generals". This tells you most of what you need to know.

[@tulaloo6526]

"I don't want to be your friend anymore," how juvenile. Thank you for a concise and informative interview

[@queenofthedesert1958]

I taught 2nd grade for decades. Trump’s comments is not even worthy of 7 year olds.

[@shawncrawford3146]

He didn't mean it as a personal statement, it's a threat. The mob identifies their own by saying, so and so, "is a friend of ours". If Pence is no longer Trump's friend, he's no longer under Trump's protection. It's very nefarious.

[@peterkingsley8736]

No,no,no! Image Al Capone saying to YOU, “I don’t want to be your friend anymore.” Better get a bodyguard

[@UTubeISphere]

39:25 Trump to Pence. Thank you, Mike Pence, for saying "I can't do it".

[@Xenogears76]

@@UTubeISphere yeah and?

[@HereInPA_Hagen]

Robert Costa is one of the preeminent journalists of our time. What he is relating here will be in the history books.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

Costa embodies the death of professional journalism in the USA

[@alphaomegastables]

🥴🤣🤣🤣🤣🤡

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

If it is it is a false history. Written by the shills of the war profiteering oligarchy of unelected billionaires. That is what the US mainstream media does now - promotes narratives that are in the for profit interests of those billionaires that own the companies of the US military industrial complex. Look at the propaganda the US legacy media pushed about the Ukraine War. Ukraine is no democracy for one. Ukraine is not winning the war for two. Russia didnt just invade Ukraine for the hell of it. The Obama/Biden neo cons lured Russia to invade because of a delusional belief that trapping Russia into a logn protracted war combined with economic sanctions would collapse the russian economy and cause regime change in Moscow and a dissolution of the Russian Federation, allowing the globalist corporations to move in and exploit russia's natural resouces. The CIA kickstarted the path to the war by overthrowing the democratically elected ukraine government in 2014. Yes the USA started the war sorry to tell you. And the neo con strategy was a fantasy, none of those things happened, Putin is more popular than ever, the russian economy is doing just fine AND Russia has effectively won the war. The US mianstream media and the Biden neo cons just dont know how to tell you americans that - thats why you dont hear much about the Ukraine war anymore...they dont know how to cover up the lies they have t old you about the war!

[@yvonneharrison4091]

I am so happy there are reporters who call issues as they are, not from a political standpoint. Robert Costa is a breath of fresh air..following FOX and Tucker Carlson. CBS has a star. No nonsense reporter, researcher, fact checker and free to tell America the truth.

[@karenm2334]

Most of us burst out laughing when we heard the elementary school-level comment that TFG said to Pence, that he wouldn’t be his friend any more if Pence didn’t go along with overturning the election. Yet Pence was reportedly crushed!?! Pathetic.

[@ron88303]

If you really want pathetic, watch a White House press conference.

[@markantrobus6794]

The level of emotion these guys put into their lives. Try and see it from their essentially naive point of view.

[@markantrobus6794]

These people take their roles seriously.

[@lzrd8460]

Karen M. - It says a lot for why Mike Pence should NEVER become president.

[@kateskeys]

The verbatim transcript of this interview could become a New York Times best seller.

[@williamedwards1128]

Trump made a simple statement, not about the combatants at Charlottesville, but about the American people in general. Trump said there are good Americans who think Confederate statues should be removed, and there are good Americans who think Confederate statues shouldn't be removed. As usual, evil people are twisting Trump's words.

[@tomvalveede6808]

@@williamedwards1128 Riiight! Trump did say that there were "Good people" in the Nazi protesters! No twisting of words needed.

[@joycebarnett7898]

@@williamedwards1128 No Trump didn't say the exact words you typed -- and he wasn't intending the nuance of reasonableness that your rearrangement creates. Go back and listen.

[@kateskeys]

@@williamedwards1128 hi William. Hope your well. I’m so sorry for the extent of your depravation regarding education and mental health services. I’d rather be your friend and have no doubt you are a good person. Please look further into expanding your vision .

[@inappropriatejohnson]

Thank you.......this is as relevant as ever.

[@carleanadewilde5340]

Wow! I really enjoyed this interview. Mostly, because it felt neutral and fact based. I wish this was mandatory for all voters watch - if only to see how fragile a country's democracy is and that maintaining it truly relies on the integrity of its people.

[@KoolT]

❤

[@inocencianieves9909]

I been watching Robert Costa for like 10 years, his always been great👏👏👏👏 but in the past five years he has become great! 🎉🎺💝 and having Bob Woodward for a mentor shows 👏👏👏🎉💝

[@tomvalveede6808]

Costa was Great and Bob Woodward wanted to pair with someone Current and Knowledgeable about DC Politics. They are Equals as reporters Costa is a much better Communicator.

[@BXGUY73]

This should be part of a SCHOOL COURSE on American Political History. GOOD JOB by "FRONTLINE" PBS.

[@kgreen4411]

I agree! Of course, the Republicans will ban this from being shown or January 6th being discussed in school altogether. They don’t believe in teaching true history.

[@Ethan.s..]

It would quickly get banned in Florida.

[@BXGUY73]

@@Ethan.s.. You are right, they would be offended and it would hurt their feelings according to phrases in the "DESANTIS Bill." 🤣🤣

[@MsCGarnica]

It should be banned as disinformation.

[@robertblount9985]

@@MsCGarnica Are you saying “should” or “would?”

[@lindaneill6338]

I've watched this so many times. Robert is a great history teller and so insightful.

[@margarethoerl461]

He's the real deal for sure.

[@captainkirk4514]

This is why we have freedom of the press. This is why we have journalists who are White House correspondence, to witness in real time to the inner workings of what goes on at the top. Transparency. Honest reporting. It has been said by many White House staffers, aids and council members that Trump detested the fact that these journalists were present almost around the clock, watching and recording everything he says and does. Donald Trump has claimed on countless occasions that he is the most transparent president in history. But his feelings of detest towards the press ran completely contrary to his claim of being completely transparent. Robert Costa represents the finest in journalistic skill. Honesty. Robert' s ability to speak and tell his story clearly is incomparable. I can see his career exploding in the future.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

he is a propagandist. Look at how many big lies the US mainstream media has told the US public the past 10 years. He has zero credibility.

[@seguelawrencedoering394]

Wow, an awesome breakdown. Even the skeptical stubborn mind can’t deny this guys confidence of information.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

Do you want a list of lies and misinformation Costas pushed when with the Washington Post and now with CBS? Pick any major news event of the past 10 years and i think you can guarantee that the US mainstream media push a false narrative about that news event. The magnitude of the falsehoods pushed by the american MSM is absolutely staggering. Costas has zero credibility.

[@sunshinelizard1]

I had forgotten what real journalism is like, thank you Mr. Costa.

[@sanriosonderweg]

The fact that the PBS logo is the NPC, no, you never knew what it was like.

[@tiglife8537]

Journalism? You mean talking heads gaslighting you.

[@calvindaves8541]

State run media!!!!

[@williemcneil8144]

This journalist right here needs his own cable talk show thumbs up

[@chrispalmer9075]

I just happened across this video and I think as we go forward to 24 everyone needs to watch this and remember what we have endured over the last 7 years. He has to be stopped!

[@lisawall9068]

Make sure you are registered to vote. Then vote BLUE for Democracy until the magas are no longer a threat.

[@jjschereriv]

OMG. . . What a brilliant thing to watch, Robert Costa! Can't recall any recounting of 'what really happened' -- so detailed and thorough yet reflecting The Big Picture, even-handed yet clear where your heart lay. Thank you. I am sending this to everyone I know. And Mike Wiser, you let HIM talk and 'asked the next question', moving the 'story' forward smoothly and powerful. Good on both of you!

[@denekaraus8592]

His analysis that Cruz and Mike Lee are the two sharpest legal minds in the GOP Senate is likely true, and one of the saddest truths imaginable.

[@richardrubin1763]

Kurt Anderson refers to them as Evil Geniuses.....spot on...but sad and scary.

[@richardrubin1763]

@CNN is Fake News true but the evil genius is knowing how to manipulate people regardless of the truth. And these people are masters of manipulating people, usually by fear of " other" and convincing them they are the patriotic and moral ones when the opposite is true.

[@denekaraus8592]

@CNN is Fake News You missed my point completely. The two sharpest legal minds in the GOP Senate being that obtuse is sad. Of course the fact that they base their arguments on lies means they're not that sharp.

[@mikem820]

Perhaps the sharpest mind in the senate, but with the spine of a jellyfish. Really Texas, is this a guy that you’re proud to have representing you ? A guy who lets his wife get insulted and then begs to phone bank for the insulter… pathetic

[@lindamullins1446]

​@CNN is Fake News he sat with trump for his book many times and trump talked humself

[@lolly5519]

Very well done. He didn’t not leave out any important details. It’s just so frightening to see where this country is headed.

[@miric6224]

What? He didn’t leave out info? How about the videos of filled out ballots? More votes in an area than registered voters? Dead voters? Seems one sided to me. All are at fault. His supports ARE his people. What’s the special deal here? Who are “their conduct?” People planted? 5:30 It’s all mixed up. It’s all mixed up. Take all the speakers with a grain of salt!! This guy talks no differently, lots of sensationalism too. Listen with open ears. It appears hopeless from all angles.

[@shippys2043]

You said this 9 months ago. It’s much more frightening today....don’t you agree?

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

He didnt leave out any "important" lies that is true.

[@sharonwadel7163]

Love Robert Costa's reporting

[@dawnturner7055]

This guy is a national treasure....I could watch him all day.

[@1953lili]

This man has got it all! He’s intelligent, articulate, young but mature and informed about it all! Thank you Frontline and Rob Costa!

[@michaelknight8276]

The type of candidates we need desperately 💯

[@KoolT]

Maybe he could run can't be any worse than 80 year olds.

[@imagrandpa]

Costa if full of it!

[@riceburner4747]

Robert Costa is very knowledgeable! He is spot on!!

[@Hojiii]

Costa is a fantastic story teller. Appreciate the deep attention he plays and the wide angle view he gives us common folk.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

wide angle view?? This is not professional journalism this is partisan propaganda it is so biased.

[@CherylSimser]

Robert Costa is such a good speaker with a clarity and awareness that is unequaled.

[@adrienbancroft7895]

Didn't not realize Costa was such a powerful investigative reporter.

[@elizabethawomanofgod4810]

WOW! WOW!! WOW!!! This interview is better than any political book.

[@tracesprite6078]

Speaking of books, Andrew Leigh's book "What's the worst that can happen?" describes how there are several former democracies which are now either crippled democracies or dictatorships because an elected leader has manipulated them in a similar way to how Trump does. President Marcos in the Philippines is one example. Trump isn't as dumb as he looks.

[@michaelfant4052]

@@tracesprite6078 Wish someone do a documentary on the ministry of how they lend a helping hand to tutelary spirit that was sitting in the White House.

[@hmhhmh5127]

Much respect to this man for sharing his story with us.

[@chrisrhome6638]

America might need to go back and give Dan Quayle a special award for defending our Constitution and Democracy.

[@hereigoagain5050]

Wow! Robert is on fire! He is very restrained and careful in his interviews on news shows. I hope justice will be served eventually.

[@dr.velmasablan3611]

Mr. Costa you have lazer sharp perception of the "problem with Trump" situation. You speak with such clarity and in-depth analyses that explains a lot.

[@TravelPhuket]

What a great interview!! I couldn’t stop watching. My respect for Mr. Costa just increased immeasurably!

[@joelwexler]

Riveting!

[@alphaomegastables]

All LIES...SPEWING PROPAGANDA!!

[@dthomas9230]

@@joelwexler USA is 46th on the Press Freedom Index for a reason. PBS tells the truth but as 90% of media is in 6 corporate donors' hands or 77% in 6 hands, monopoly either way begets ignorance and an embrace of fascists for Jesus! Red states are full of moronic evangelicals that believe in the Prosperity Gospel.

[@loveandpeace4235]

This is unbelievable, should be played on every tv station...prime time!!!

[@lisabillings3739]

Absolutely everybody should listen to this it's an Incredibly eye opening insight into the last six, seven years of our politics. Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican they should scare the hell out of everybody.

[@KoolT]

❤

[@patriciaperrotta431]

Trump is just like a Mafia boss. Am I the only one who sees this?

[@lisabillings3739]

He shows it more and more everyday in his posts on "Truth Social" and in his speeches . I'm hoping he gets to trial for one of his many indictments before the 2024 elections are here. He's doing everything he can think of to delay the process

[@anncata7368]

If a president favors white nationalists and what they actually stand for, that equates with a bigoted president. Trump saying “my people” leaves the impression that DJT feels like a god on a pedestal. He can do no wrong because his followers believe in him. That shows ignorance in “his people” not realizing the Hitler like stance DJT exposes.

[@anncata7368]

@@patriciaperrotta431nope

[@Booker830]

Just finished KZbin the PBS documentary Lies Politics and Democracy. It was a trip back over the last 7 years and very well done. God bless and help us heal!

[@ianfreddy3804]

Agreed, but no mention of Covid at all. Nothing.

[@STEVENFRYFRY]

@@ianfreddy3804 wtf does COVID have to do with trumps empirical ambitions? Trump left a broken country, he be the proverbial straw. The insurrection is still on going and I expect to see the US fail like the every other country that embraces nationalism

[@taritabonita22]

Thank you for this timeline!

[@capsridge]

Every American needs to watch this.

[@evenebrown7353]

It is scary how close we america came to almost losing our democracy for 1 man who was never qualified to be president in the first place

[@carliene9389]

Well said

[@edwardfiorvante6123]

Never qualified? Can you explain to me how Trumps 4 years were worse than Bidens 3?

[@guillermorexach3280]

Fantastic...Brilliant, succinct!!!

[@cherricastellon490]

Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley need to be voted out due to their inability to represent their constituents and their lies.

[@oneirishpoet]

There are not many journalists or broadcasters anywhere who could sit for an hour + interview and just tell this detailed, compelling story spanning several years with countless actors and players, and Costa knows it all by heart... He doesn't even have to pause once to think about it. One of the most impressive interviews I've seen in a long time, Costa is definitely at the top of his game!

[@nazareehines-starr6297]

I agree

[@desireeespinosa3954]

It is edited But yeah… he knows what message he is trying to deliver for sure. IE: everyone in the gop is innocent and had nothing but the very best intentions. Including dump… it was Rudy’s fault! 🙄

[@williamedwards1128]

Trump made a simple statement, not about the combatants at Charlottesville, but about the American people in general. Trump said there are good Americans who think Confederate statues should be removed, and there are good Americans who think the statues shouldn't be removed. As usual, evil people are twisting Trump's words.

[@tangentcreative1]

To bad he lies right from the start

[@Nighttale233]

Costa is a hack and only wants to radicalize the country whilst ignoring problems from the current administration.

[@adamtharpe9587]

I’ve always admired this young man. He is an extremely skilled and highly detailed journalists. Very articulate to say the least. I enjoyed watching him on PBS Washington Week on Friday evenings, when he was moderator / host for that show. This interview takes you through this whole process of the big lie and helps explain who Trump is. My mind was just boggled trying to understand how and why the Republican Party no longer prioritizes ethos. It changed its course. Now its a party of absolute power and loyalty to a one man show.

[@jamespatterson1775]

PBS = Putin's Broadcast Station.

[@tracesprite6078]

The Republican Party has been hijacked by a group of people who feel angry but aren't very good at expressing why. They feel hurt and excluded and they try to boost their confidence by pretending that their white skin is a sign of superiority. Good quality schools that encourage clear thinking are needed in the poorer areas.

[@lindamullins1446]

​@@jamespatterson1775 Trump loves putin

[@user-op9iv5eo2i]

WOW..this is the BEST recap of ALL the players and what really happened....great facts and insight. This is the TRUTH.

[@funface4]

This interview is vital . Here we see how extremely vulnerable our democracy is when a demagogue gets it in his mind to crush everything our country stands for ignoring law and order, our Constitution. He is prepared to go rogue for his narcissist selfish ambition even if it means driving the country to its knees through treasonous immoral illegal means. Every American should understand how important it is to stay awake, vote and safe democracy.

[@65neu52]

The thing I love most about Robert Costa is that he never patronizes his colleagues. When he’s asked a question, he never answers with “Well” or “Listen…” or “I think”. He just goes right into facts.

[@redvibez]

Something about the way he speaks is reminiscent of Saul Goodman.

[@Baci302]

Saying “Well …” to introduce an response is not “patronizing”. He’s being “direct”.

[@Baci302]

He’s reading from a teleprompter

[@Dr.Yalex.]

@@Baci302 he is not, he's an orator.

[@65neu52]

@@Baci302 He’s been around for years. Always exactly like this, in all settings. He’s on TV all the time. This is how Costa interviews.

[@stevebrooks7197]

Wow! What an interview. This describes "what the hell is going on at the time". Why doesn't America see this?

[@cherylmorelli6103]

A great number of people who are ill informed by the likes of fox news and other right wing media.

[@ppastrana1672]

Some just REFUSE to see. THANK YOU TED CRUZ. You are so disgusting.

[@williamedwards1128]

Trump made a simple statement, not about the combatants at Charlottesville, but about the American people in general. Trump said there are good Americans who think Confederate statues should be removed, and there are good Americans who think Confederate statues shouldn't be removed. As usual, evil people are twisting Trump's words.

[@tomvalveede6808]

@@williamedwards1128 Is this All you can say? Sad.

[@jimbrown5070]

@@williamedwards1128 what part of "grab 'em by the *****" got twisted around?

[@mattbradshaw1015]

Costa is captivating

[@carmenflores-wt9fd]

Politics is not power..but doing the right thing for the American voters

[@Goldenknave]

There is a great element of the raconteur in Robert Costa, he isnt just retelling facts, he is able to create a sense of a story behind the facts and weave it all into an interesting and nuanced vision of events

[@suzannejenkins3896]

yep...he is definitely a storyteller...spellbinding...

[@stacyyoust]

Like Bob Woodward

[@steppenwolf3252]

It sounds like Costa is reading directly from his book.

[@TonyA-gx1ts]

Yeah sounds like a story alright. A baloney story made to make some people sound good and others sound evil. I really question his motivations.

[@alvastone1211]

That may be true when it comes to content and phrasing, but his delivery is stiff and voice is monotonous.

[@CarryOnRTW]

Canadian here. At first I thought he was reading from a script and it bugged me. Then I realized, no, the guy just knows the material inside out and is an excellent speaker to let it free flow like this. Terrifying stuff.

[@TheJTcol]

No American here who was never fooled by this pack of lies because I know this material inside out and you don't so you listen to a bold face liar and you buy it. I don't because I know that he is lying to the world but you don't have to buy it find out for yourself what Trump said and did listen to Trump saying it and see if that is what he said. anything else he says that you can't verify it for yourself is pure lies. Wake up

[@Ottee2]

Absolutely. Bob Costa, with his access to the insiders in Washington, and their politics, provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of power that were and are in play. I'm thankful for this interview.

[@chariotlimousinebooking9127]

Paul..... Please keep in mind they didn't show any PROOF. At one point he said people started dying during the raid. Who were all these people who DIED ??? This is something you can easily check. If you really think all of these Republicans gave him all this information ??? Next he will sell you a bridge. ITS A GOOD STORY>>>

[@ericarroyo228]

Since I've been closely following nations politics since 2014, unfortunately, nothing in this interview surprises me, which is itself, a horrible statement.

[@annebalderston2520]

That is what a really good journalist does.

[@caesar1432323]

Bob Costa is the next generation Bob Woodward. We’re lucky to have him

[@annastracke5259]

Such a sober and accurate portrayal of US politics at the present time and so utterly scary. Will look out for more from Mr Costa, such an articulate man , his intelligence is palpable.

[@Dan-iy1jl]

What a riveting interview. Thank you Frontline! The best in the business.

[@MegMcCormack]

Please, please frontline, keep posting these full interviews of which you use part in the full episode/documentary….. they are incredible. Thank you!!

[@foodchef9721]

The BEST explaination and interview I have EVER seen regarding January 6th. If anyone does not understand what happened that day and the folowing years, watch this interview. 🎯

[@somemoriesneverfade]

I can't get enough of this Frontline interviews and docs. Great job Robert Costa!

[@cathyschwermann5914]

Ya, great job with lying to the American people. Libs don't know when to stop the lies.

[@roburbinati358]

Costa is clear and thorough. The best explanation of the current state of affairs - and the most harrowing.

[@williamyoung9401]

We're all doomed in 2025... American Democracy...it was a fun experiment while it lasted. I'm glad to see a corrupt ultra-capitalist was the nail in its coffin, since money meant more to Americans than preserving our History...

[@Lianne459]

Costs did a great book with Bob Woodward. He knows what he is talking about

[@tktoadE]

He really knows what he is talking about and says it very well.

[@nymike06]

lol Yeah right

[@gregbromberg5427]

Note: I watched this from beginning to end. It gives me hope to intelligent discourse is alive and well.

[@rolodexter]

Robert Costa is a fantastic journalist, and his interview with FRONTLINE was incredibly insightful. He has a gift for telling stories in a way that is both engaging and informative. I also think he would make a great history professor. His knowledge of American politics is encyclopedic, and he has a knack for explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. I think the Frontline documentaries are essential viewing for anyone who wants to understand American politics. They are well-researched and well-produced, and they provide a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most important events in recent history. I highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in politics or American history. I'm glad you enjoyed the interview and the documentaries. I think Robert Costa is a great journalist, and I'm excited to see what he does next.

[@kesart8378]

I remember well Jonathan Swann's lengthy interview with Mitch McConnell, particularly the part where Swann asked of McConnell, "What are your moral red lines?" And McConnell could offer no satisfactory answer except that he felt quite comfortable, morally, with his actions past and present. No qualms. No misgivings. McConnell has always been a political animal bent on the acquisition of greater and greater power, with morality, at best, a peripheral concern.

[@cottonrock4116]

Ok morals indicate you have a conscience and are capable of having remorse if u do wrong. So McConnell and morals are antithetical.

[@gregfletcher3557]

Read Trump's speech about Charlottesville. This sorry excuse for a journalist knows Trump disavowed white supremacist in the speech. The media cut it out and ran with "good people on both sides". History buffs were there and were concerned with the white washing of history taking place, instead of learning from it. This journalist has zero integrity. The actual speech proves me right. When hatred for the orange man justifies lies we've lost our way. We have a corrupt media, check the speech, he knows the truth this wasn't an oversight.

[@alanwheeler1]

Mr. Costa speaks effortlessly as if he's reading the book from the inside of his forehead... and that's a good talent.

[@freedomrings4134]

That's bc he is. It's recited propaganda.

[@takaorobinson8719]

Well said

[@oneirishpoet]

Agree 💯 there are not many journalists or broadcasters anywhere who could sit for an hour plus interview and just tell this story spanning several years with countless actors and players, and Costa knows it all by heart and doesn't even have to pause to think about it. One of the most impressive interviews I've seen in a long time, Costa is definitely at the top of his game!

[@NicoEl119]

His lies are like MAma Mia Badda bing Badda boom

[@shawncrawford3146]

@@freedomrings4134 It's not recited propaganda, along with Woodward, Costa literally wrote the book on this subject. Read it for yourself and you might fucking learn something.

[@d.scottjohnstone6813]

"I don't want to be your friend anymore".......The last time I heard that was on the playground in second grade.........incredible!.....

[@lydiadevries8408]

Thank you, this explained so much

[@sharingmythoughts1552]

Thank you for sharing this informative interview. Robert Costas is one of my favorite journalist.

[@dp26385]

Me too 👍

[@sharonwadel7163]

Robert Costa is a fantastic news man.

[@scorpio85]

High class journalist, so erudite and learned

[@scorpio85]

Trump still maintains he won the 2020 Presidential elections. March 2024 and hopes to win the 2024 Presidential elections. God help America

[@scorpio85]

What a dishonest and evil man trump is. Be aware Americans it will happen all over again in 2024 if trump doesn’t win the 2024 Presidential elections.

[@annadunwell3237]

Excellent reporting by Robert Costa.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

This is not professional reporting this is professional narrative spinning borderline straight political propaganda for the US Democrat party

[@markgrubb4828]

I regretted voting for trump in 2016 immediately while walking to my car from the polls. I honestly would have voted for Mickey Mouse in 2020. The Republican’s had a golden opportunity on January 6th to take back the party, they could have destroyed trumpism for good. He would be a distant memory by now.

[@indiesindie1984]

Costa nailed it 100%! This interview was so compelling that I had to purchase his book!

[@vatorman]

There is a sucker born every minute.

[@LynnPenning]

7

[@LynnPenning]

7

[@edwardfiorvante6123]

Definitely nailed it especially the part about our Nation Guard being traffic cops. He is a true American giving you the facts and Truth! 😂

[@Gordie1450]

Bone spurs

[@addiemclain1183]

You are so good at what you do. You are amazingly intelligent. You also look like my grandson. OMG, you are my grandson!!!

[@PhuongTran-pg4ui]

Thank you Mr. Robert Costa for speaking the truth!

[@001singularity]

One of the few real journalists we have. And that is a big part of the problem.

[@jacklund9366]

As much as I appreciate the detailed analysis of this whole process I seriously can't wait to never hear about donald toddler trump again 🙄

[@jodywho6696]

Love FRONTLINE. I can never thank you enough. 10 yrs before 9/11. You told us about Osama Benladin. You bring the truth regardless of all. The Man Who Knew. ✨🇺🇸✨💙💜💚✨

[@cdk3law]

This should be put into a history time capsule...

[@stephenmellentine]

These extra interviews are where the gems are. Thank you, @Frontline!

[@vjcodec]

Damn this man has a great speaking voice!

[@megyoung7947]

This is the BEST evaluation of this time period that I have seen read or heard. I am impressed, thank you!

[@kateskeys]

Robert Costa has done other interviews on Frontline documentaries. All are awesome. He’s young but he’s been on fire for at least a decade. I wish him success. We need people like him!

[@fattyboombatty2000]

This guy made up the whole story about trump saying “these are my people” about white supremacists, and how Ryan tried to get him to disavow them. You know how I know? He disavowed them that very day at the press confrence. The infamous “fine people on both sides” speech was clipped 5 seconds short of him saying “I’m not talking about the white supremacists. They should be condemned” look it up if you don’t believe me. This guy just took an untrue news narrative, and tried to say he has inside knowledge of the situation, and he didn’t realize he had the premise wrong. What a liar.

[@norafox4789]

Amen,amen...

[@gregfletcher3557]

he's not telling the truth. read Charlottesville speech. He knows Trump disavowed white supremacist, He's willing to compromise his integrity. Now he has none.

[@patriotpatriarch7797]

@XishGreen is he trump’s psychiatrist too? He’s a bs p-er

[@nymike06]

He's a far left stooge

[@eternalskeptic]

He invited He incited They rioted Then he denied it Even though he'd implied it Now he must be indicted.

[@CathieConway-rd6wu]

These words are finally the truth, as we we have always suspected.

[@charlesmichaelhunt9935]

31:42 The entire interview is worth watching for this bit of insight. Loyalty to the person rather than loyalty to the party or a set of ideas. The implications are enormous.

[@yurei8]

Absolutely! Trump has become, what I call a "back door god". He cant call himself God, because that would offend his evangelical part of his base. But he gives himself god-like qualities. Like he said that he has done more for Christianity than anyone since Jesus. I heard him say this himself.

[@sharonwadel7163]

Best interview ever

[@treewizdom6093]

He really provided a clearer picture of what we the public have seen in bits and pieces on the news. Robert Costa has been traveling with Trump for a few years and is well spoken and very knowledgeable about the inner workings of the Trump regime. Quite an intriguing interview.

[@williamedwards1128]

Trump made a simple statement, not about the combatants at Charlottesville, but about the American people in general. Trump said there are good Americans who think Confederate statues should be removed, and there are good Americans who think Confederate statues shouldn't be removed. As usual, evil people are twisting Trump's words.

[@marlenemorrow8942]

@@williamedwards1128 except one side of that argument were there to kill the other side. You could say that about nazis. Im sure there were decent nazis at home... but their role was to harm the jews and because of their madman leader..they did unthinkable things.

[@Mary-kl4tk]

Every one of these Frontline documentaries has been excellent. Should be required viewing for every American, especially students and the MAGA crowd. Every one of these contributors told the truth. Man, to be a fly on the wall in the WH...

[@mikejudkins8649]

It doesn't matter he is not in office now,telling he is going to do what ever he wants to. If we are going to be free we will have to have the war that they want.he will never leave us alone

[@MidnightRambler]

Just another lefty bs documentary

[@Susan-lf2hl]

Maga crowd will never listen to this and that is the problem.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

its one sided propaganda for the Political Establishment who dont want their corrupt gravy train silver platter lifestyle to come down that is what this narrative is

[@shawnyoung8752]

Frontline has been great since early 70s? Vietnam war was documented. All they did was research it and put facts into place. No political bias. Real News!!!