Lies, Politics and Democracy: Tim Alberta (interview) | FRONTLINE

Tim Alberta is a staff writer for The Atlantic. He formerly served as chief political correspondent for Politico and is the author of American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump.
The following interview was conducted by the Kirk Documentary Group’s Mike Wiser for FRONTLINE on May 6, 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...
#Frontline #Interview #TimAlberta
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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’s Initial Claims of Fraud in the 2020 Election - 0:00:00
The Response from Graham and Cruz - 0:05:48
Cruz and the 2016 Election - 0:11:31
Pence Joins the Ticket - 0:39:59
Trump’s Early Presidency and the Republican Response - 0:46:04
Trump and Charlottesville - 0:53:48
The First Impeachment - 0:57:06
Republican Leadership in the Wake of the 2020 Election - 1:09:14
Jan. 6 and the Aftermath - 1:20:41
The Republicans Exile Liz Cheney - 1:29:56

[@frontline]

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

[@carolinemaybe]

It says it’s not available??

[@lindadeal3344]

Thank you Frontline!! You are the best on news reporting!!

[@Toquer88]

​@@susanfrancis5471 Oh cool. Are you the one that knows what's real and not?

[@batmanonabike3119]

@@Toquer88 she is entitled to an opinion, as are you. And he certainly sounds more earnest than Trump, imo.

[@robertmclaughlin9472]

Another great episode. Please keep making these full interviews available. Even when I haven't agreed with the speaker, it's always been informative. THANKS!

[@diannes9935]

I could listen to journalist Tim Alberta all day long. Thank you PBS for this informative and valuable interview!

[@micheledenise2305]

Alot of its 1 sided!

[@micheledenise2305]

Oh Cruz is a better man than u

[@micheledenise2305]

Oh my gosh let's hear it from Ted Cruz not u this is all hearsay! U nor Democrats know what Trump and Ted said to each other behind closed doors! Do u hear what this man is saying if he is hearing all this I've learned give names let's hear this from Cruz! U are speculating what people is thinking

[@stilllife4u]

All of it is true @@micheledenise2305

[@allymayful]

@@micheledenise2305Yes the right and proper side. The Biblical and Jesus side.

[@ChrisMaveric]

This program needs to be aired on ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX...

[@compo1948]

I've watched this several times and it's even more instructional and chilling now than a year ago 😢

[@stoppin2look]

Still relevant in March 2024.

[@HKim0072]

Couldn’t finish it. Just makes me angry.

[@diz0973ify]

Every American citizen should see this video.

[@serenityb5816]

These Frontline documentaries are invaluable.

[@patrickpierce1635]

Our great-great grandkids will definitely be studying this. The internet led to the lies that built Donald Trump, hopefully it will also lead to lessons on how to avoid a Donald Trump, if we want to pay attention to them...

[@martin2289]

Underwatched, sadly.

[@JohnTLyon]

Thank the Gods for PBS/ Frontline. This is essential viewing for any intelligent American. BRAVO! The "go along to get along" mentality that has co-opted the Republican Party has to be exposed!

[@xandror]

95 minutes of a bought-and-paid for democrat shill rambling "orange man bad" isn't good for anyone.

[@LetFreedomRing-tg1bf]

Maga is a criminal enterprise with minions dressed in red hats. I never see them in my neighborhood. They are taking all of that Trump crap down elsewhere I travel.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

it is the criminality of the US Democratic Party and the US Mainstream Media like this shill for the Establishment that needs to be exposed and it is beginning to finally come out

[@gregbromberg5427]

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

[@RuthmarieHicks]

I was working from home on January 6th. And I have to say, I was worried on that day. I wasn't supposed to have TV on while I was working. But on this one day, I broke the rule and put the TV on "mute". I was not sure what was going to happen, but if ANYTHING was going to happen, it was going to happen on THAT DAY. I actually put the TV on to assure myself that things were "OK". and I had it on whatever channel I could find that was broadcasting the proceedings in Congress live. Everyone thought I was crazy to be so worried! In the end, I had a lot of work and never looked up. It was time for my 30-minute break before I even LOOKED at the TV. I looked up and saw a gallows outside the Capitol building and a mobe scaling the walls of the Capitol! My worst fears were realized. Until I saw that, I kept hoping I was wrong. Unfortunately, I wasn't wrong.

[@DanielMulloy-bg6gw]

Being a member of Congress was never meant to be a life long job. The founders Never meant it to be that way... these people were supposed to serve a few terms and then go back to their law practice or their butcher shop. Power corrupts!

[@HVACSoldier]

That is so true. It’s the rhetoric coming from leaders in BOTH parties, and those “leaders” (and I use the term “leader” loosely), that try and bring out the worst in people. It’s the “IF I don’t get what I want, you’ll be sorry,” attitude that gets us the riots over the summer of 2020, AND the January 6th riots. No one was willing to tell Trump or others in both parties to shut up.

[@Yomi4D]

If they had fore sight, they might have put provisions in the constitution to prevent having career politicians.

[@HVACSoldier]

@@Yomi4D IF the founders ever thought that the Representatives would make money on being in office, they probably would have.

[@SnowflakeHenri]

@@Yomi4D they did. But sometime back people wanted those in office who knew how the government worked.

[@blondiegreeneyes4802]

@@SnowflakeHenri Only the most erudite among us should ever hold high public office. There is no shortage of educated people, with a proper understanding of how the government is supposed to work. "Outsiders" is one thing, but government servants must demonstrate a knowledge of how government functions.

[@rebeccao8895]

Dear lord. Did those idiots REALLY think trump had only one last favor to ask? I’m just a housewife in a small town in NC. trump will never stop asking you for favors. That much I know.

[@yurei8]

That is a profound way to put things. I will remember your words.

[@wattetiparoch]

Wonderfully put. Thank you.

[@corryjookit7818]

Love this comment. Ted Cruz wasn't born in the USA so I suppose he's not eligible, is he ? .

[@kgriff5537]

That's what happens when you sold your soul to the 👿 for tax cuts and conservative judges. They were all trying to get rid of him and he just will not go away.

[@g0679]

@@corryjookit7818 See JUS SANGUINIS. For legal status as a natural-born citizen in the US, it serves as well as JUS SOLI.

[@sitarkumar]

What a remarkably articulate guy. He has laid out his points with absolute clarity. We should somehow work on getting people like Tim Alberta to explain these details, via multiple reels and mass social media, to targets Republicans and make the case against Trump.

[@priscillacharlot8188]

Thank you PBS FRONTLINE. I believe you are telling us the truth.

[@joko09010]

These Frontline videos are worth more than their weight in gold.

[@tanazinn8484]

I absolutely agree!!!

[@WakeUpAmerican000s]

Ellen - only if we the people get some actual law enforcement out of the DOJ to ensure that these criminals are prosecuted and punished. Otherwise, these videos will just be banned by the fascists like they're banning books now.

[@DJRenee]

💯

[@LostLeftyLimb]

The importance of public institutions like PBS and NPR can not be overstated. It, and it’s public Funding needs to be vehemently defended. Unfortunately those who would really benefit from this sort of honest journalism and media content don’t have the attention span or have been brainwashed to avoid it at all costs.

[@johnswanson3741]

I wholeheartedly disagree. It is a biased forum put out to further the democratic agenda! It is complete garbage done in such a way to are those with no common sense to believe the underlying message Frontline is making. Which, of course is always in support of the commy organization that has taken control of this nation, also known as the DNC

[@skrounst]

Dude, give this man a show FFS. I could listen to him talk for hours!

[@B_Bodziak]

Given how many politicians talk to him on- and off-the-record, indicates how trusted a journalist he is.

[@ladedalounge]

do not pass the bill that is stupid...too late...

[@KrisWiltseArt]

The youtube algorythm has directed me to this video a few times. I give credit to it now that I'm listening to it.

[@michaelbraxton2899]

PBS: Kudos to all of you, especially Tim Alberta. This is probably the 12’th or 13’th time I’ve seen this! Weirdly, if I fall asleep, it’s playing when I wake up. It’s an inspiring piece of truth telling at a time when our political skies are ominously overcast and threatening with cowardice, cynicism, mendacity and rank criminality masquerading as patriotism. I hope Tim lands on his feet, but a little voice keeps saying, keep an eye on him; as he goes so goes in all probability American journalism!

[@michaelmode]

This series should win a Pulitzer

[@dagordon1041]

I agree, Michael.

[@terireed3740]

It most definitely should. Frontline always does a good job but this series goes above and beyond.

[@astridgamino5251]

I can’t believe I lived this and still cannot believe it happened. I’m watching this video, watching back on what happened, and still cannot believe it.

[@Johnconno]

Guess you're sceptical about what you've seen?

[@williamyoung9401]

I threw up four (4) times Jan 6 - 7. Never in our 246 year history have our elections been called into question. Not even during the Civil War. Fascism needs a Great Lie to thrive...

[@astridgamino5251]

@@Johnconno lol no this shit definitely happened. I just can’t believe people are like. The sky is not blue.

[@cliffgaither]

@williamyoung9401 :: Your point is well-taken but very disturbing. What you committed about Fascism is so similar to Germany. The real people in power ( in Germany ) thought they could control "H" and his followers, and he [ they ] destroyed Germany. If Trump gets back in, he will not only destroy the United States but will use his power to destroy the people who held him accountable. A civil war will be a great starting point. It will be a great opportunity for the Pentagon to use its power to maintain order and preserve the Union instead of invading and destabilizing other countrysides.

[@devanhammack695]

Ya, hard to believe you had the best economy of our lives, peace deals in the middle east, and all those new jobs. Now we have Biden... corruption personified. About to start WW3, botched border, botched Afghan withdrawal, highest inflation in 50 yrs, etc... etc... etc..

[@EarthaMaddox]

Awesome Interview! It should be shown Again and Again Nation Wide! Than You Tim and Frontline! 2024 is the time to repeat this interview!!!

[@B_Bodziak]

There are several in this series. I believe I've watched them all, and several more than once. I'm always amazed.

[@thisaintsyourmomsaccount9693]

Every person in US needs to hear this explanation and reporting. Excellent. Vote BLUE

[@bclamore]

I keep hearing how smart Ted Cruz is. But I also see how small his spine is. Shame he places political career over being a statesman, because we could sure use one.

[@robertpendergrass7996]

You can receive a degree from Harvard University. Or any other top University in the world. Unfortunately without mother's wits, common sense and street sense. That education makes you an educated fool Ted Cruz is a prime example Of that social tragedy. Truth + Wisdom = Peace ✌ 👏 🙏 . One of us will never be as smart as all us. Definitely without those 3 senses !

[@AlexanderDunetz]

Cruz ran off to Acapulco while Houston froze . My bio daughter AOC raised $2M on Internet and organized supplies into Texas. Cruz felt the heat from his cowardice , slinked back to Texas , and was on video news working a soup line .

[@barbstanley1353]

Pete Meijer is on the right side of history

[@sueprator9314]

Yes a despicable cretin. Barack's first term, Cruz put the Country through that Budget nightmare shutting down the Govt for weeks. A vile traitorous a hole before Trump.

[@elzrccvi]

Ted Cruz's gifts he is using to promote himself. A mini-Trump with intelligence, education and a basic Christian background, but minus backbone when comes to genuine public service. Good example of the difference between an ego-centric politician and a true public servant with potential to grow into a genuine statesman. That he is not.

[@dwaynechatoyer8912]

wow....I was stuck to this interview..never heard of T.Alberta before but he's amazing...watching from Montreal,Can..

[@micheledenise2305]

He is lying on Sep 16 2016 he endorsed Trump

[@lawrencelampke6007]

​@@micheledenise2305if that's true, I haven't checked it yet, I'm sure he regrets it now

[@Travesty-qy4hv]

@@micheledenise2305 The convention was in July. Cruz was booed at the convention for not endorsing Trump. But you knew this. You all lie as taught by your fearless leader, easily the lying-est demagogue in American history. It's his native tongue.

[@lauraschultzpipis4562]

Regardless, he is now speaking in this 2023 video. He is a journalist from an evangelical Christian family in Michigan who has worked and struggled through understanding the marriage of the Christian right and the republican party. I recommend further reading his stuff!

[@johnquartieri5141]

Most accurate information I’ve seen in one place. …astounding

[@lisawall9068]

Excellent in-depth interview. Tim Alberta is insightful and perceptive.

[@vickipurcell6738]

Wow, what is done in the dark shall come to light. There's hope with men like Tim Alberta and Jack Smith talking. 👏🏽

[@patrickpierce1635]

And they ARE Men. Real Men. Keeping our hope afloat... America needs more like them.

[@450Chicago]

This guy is really, really sharp. On point!

[@TampaDave]

Frontline does such a great public service by showing these interviews. We not only get to see the contexts for which quotes in the feature video are taken, but get to see more deeply just who each interviewee is. Thanks AGAIN Frontline!

[@carlawright2010]

I think he ascribes more humanity to Cruz than there is.

[@leotachaney7322]

Carla, I couldn't agree more! Cruz is a sleazeball. Always has been..always will be!!

[@ms.joaniemalarkey942]

💩💩💩💩💩💩💩🎉😎😀🔥

[@marydolan4857]

Cruz is intelligent, highly educated, and lacking in integrity.

[@janetritchie7499]

@@marydolan4857 I agree with you, Ms. Wright.

[@janetritchie7499]

@@marydolan4857 I agree with you, also, Mary.

[@joko09010]

Voices like Alberta are so important, not just for current events, but for the sake of history. Thank you Frontline.

[@Moises-kf1hg]

This guy is speaking on behalf of others. He’s in the opposing party. This is what we call performance arts. When you believe this stuff, yet you don’t recognize the concerted effort/attack on anything everything connected to trump, we’re in a bad spot. Go dig up info on the rai ds that happened over the last couple days. They’re trying to dismantle everything connected to him. I don’t care who you are, you(anyone reading this) can be charged for something. There are too many laws in America, much of its discretionary on how it gets enforced, but everyone is in violation. When they start sifting through everything in your history to find the single thing they can charge you for, then punish you by the max the law allows. We are in big trouble as a nation. This is what’s happening right now. When they do this to people that can afford to fight it, just know that they can do the same to you and you’ll be powerless

[@DJRenee]

Yeah, video, audio and written documentation are important.

[@SwisstedChef2018]

Nothing abut Cruz is exciting, true or professional, sorry Mr. Alberta

[@jonnywilson4956]

HAD. hunter biden laptop NOT been labeled misinformation...and essentially banned from all social media..it WOULD have changed the outcome. Its NO conspiracy...like they keep saying

[@knowledgetracker]

😂 It's truly amazing to watch those who are easily indoctrinated and brainwashed. It would be amusing if it wasn't so sad. Hats off to these geniuses for leading so many people astray.

[@user-zb7gf3um7t]

Tim Alberta is an amazing man. He is not partisan, but a true journalist. He just listens for the truth.

[@lashelleullie3717]

Don’t know this guy , but he gave a great interview and after watching this became more attractive by the minute. Upstanding guy!!❤

[@gerardvandermeulen62]

Telling it like it is. Great stuff. Greetings from the Netherlands

[@blondiegreeneyes4802]

Love you guys!

[@amberhawksong]

o/

[@KyaniMosaic_Crone]

He is so refreshing to listen to. Knows what he is going to say, gets straight to the point with facts to back it up & not filling every sentence with fillers such as um, uh, like, you know & right.

[@shellywms70]

He is very articulate. No doubt. But have you watched the interview with Robert Costa? Brilliant speaker!

[@Liveackto]

@@shellywms70 totally agree. Watched that one first. Excellently put across. I actually watched his interview twice I found it so good. 😉👌🏾

[@Yarrb53]

Its refreshing to be lied to ?

[@cathykrueger4899]

I decided to read the transcript. The number of times he said “sort of” is phenomenal. I find this worrisome.

[@mrflippy2]

"It is addictive, it is consuming and it is corrupting" . . . Perfectly stated

[@jobaloney1334]

So powerful interview and we'll organized information

[@toddmurphy523]

Absolute phenomenal reporter. This is UNSCRIPTED. This reporter is speaking at the spur of the moment to analyze the rise of Trump. Wow...just wow. Smart guy.

[@nosuchthing8]

This has become his life

[@hirokofalkenstein5836]

Yes, I watched twice.

[@rap4880]

​@nosuchthing8 Our lives too.

[@paulolenski9431]

TIMMY IS A RAPID FIRE LIAR. Now that the Hunter Biden LAPTOP has been proven to be what it is - HUNTER BIDEN'S LAPTOP. And Polls have shown Voters for Biden reconsidering their vote if they had known of these contents. Contents being that depraved, filthy, disgusting and revealing of all Joe Biden's TREASONOUS "Veep for Sale" Communications, lets see how Mr. Mo Fo (the rapid fire liar) deals with it. The Vote may have been True. But the information leading up to that vote was poisoned. Including the "51 Spys Who Lied". Come on Timmy boy, stop dancing for your Lunatic Left master's (The Atlantic and POLITICO) and tell the truth. Tell the Truth you Mo Fo.

[@MidnightRambler]

Political dem activist

[@Maria-tr4im]

Once again Frontline cuts through the noise and goes straight to facts and answers questions we have had for years. Thank you

[@gunnjorunjungeengelsen6612]

From overseas 👋🏻🇳🇴 just checking around for some political KZbin news - 1:36 h/mins later - Frontline’s Tim Alberta interview - I could not stop - more than interesting listening to.

[@sandradickson2099]

Putin Plan

[@dthomas9230]

@@gunnjorunjungeengelsen6612 Is that a Norwegian flag?

[@gunnjorunjungeengelsen6612]

@@dthomas9230 Yes, it is ☀️

[@NK-ox9uo]

You can tell when people are stating the truth, and this is what it looks like.

[@bolanoluwa6686]

Wow! Just wow! Everything you knew and thought was happening properly laid bare. Bravo Tim Albeta. Nice one PBS.

[@marydonofrio7115]

"History isn't kind to the man who holds Mussolini's jacket" WOW. Thank you PBS Frontline for doing these interviews. Should be mandatory for every American to watch these interviews.

[@michaelnestingen5899]

I strongly agree. This should part of the HISTORY Curriculum in public schools.

[@voraciousreader3341]

This eejit actually is being praised in this comments section when he answered the first question by saying that republicans in the House and Senate didn’t oppose tRump because they wanted to save their jobs, because their constituents wanted him to be re-elected, but then he said their buddies at the state level said that tRump didn’t have the votes to win! If all of their constituents had wanted tRump, he would have won in a landslide. Which again completely elucidates the fact that republicans didn’t have the balls to fight for our way of life, only their jobs, before and during January 6th. And he said that they didn’t know who tRump was when he was elected, completely forgetting that his ugly, vile rhetoric had been circling the country for a decade, and he showed himself to be a psychopath and pathological liar on his reality TV show. Arrrrrgggggh, I can’t stand my country right now, lol!

[@davkatjenn]

And then Cruz licked Mussolini's boot.

[@dhoffnun]

@@michaelnestingen5899 No joke: PBS Frontline has taught me more about the actual real world than anything in school, anything on the day-to-day news. These programs are national treasures.

[@Itsme-jv4cd]

Every person should also have education regarding narcissism. Not only would it help them know when they are being mislead by a political candidate it would help avoid toxic relationships.

[@bcmountaingoat6192]

At 1:21:30 you can really hear the profound sadness in his tone over the rioters and how they were radicalized and driven to do what they did. When he talked about how the rioters were tricked and led to do what they did, you're hearing from Tim Alberta the person rather than Tim Alberta the reporter, as you can clearly tell he is deeply and personally bothered by what he'd seen and the scale to which he'd seen it, as well as how it had affected his own life. I know he's supposed to not let that affect his reporting (as he points out later) but dang, how can you literally watch people literally throwing away their reputations, careers, or even lives in the case of four people, for nothing more than a lie created and fomented by the very people who wouldn't be caught dead in the same room as the folks who stormed the capitol and not feel at least somewhat bad for them? I know I do, but despite that I often have to remind myself that, regardless of what they believed, how much they believed it, and how maliciously they were tricked, they committed crimes and need to suffer the consequences for their actions. I suspect Tim probably feels the same way, and it shows when he talks about them. Mad respect for admitting that he was letting his emotions affect him here - not too many people I know in that situation that would. A great interview for so many reasons.

[@aholesplaychess]

tim alberta is a biased hack.

[@karinaz8756]

Trump supporters have lost their friends, standing in the community ; their jobs, their freedom , their LIVES. Grown adults telling lies like toddlers. They’re gone. We just have to move this country forward without them.

[@sueblood7793]

Gee. That's funny. I watched the rally all day from 4 different reporters. Never heard a thing from this guy or ANY MSM until there was violence. Have you heard what the Head of the Capitol Police said after he resigned? Did you hear what the SECOND in charge of Capitol Police had to say after HE also resigned ? He blamed EVERYTHING on Pelosi's underling Loretta or something. Even the later Capitol Police suicides! Have you seen Wray evade questions about how many FBI actors playing Trump supporters were present ? Did you catch the FACT that WI Supreme Court determined process for 2020 selection was illegal & couldn't be used in 2022? How about the other state supreme Court? How about the evidence that Blinken wrote the letter over 50 Intel Ops signed saying Hunters laptop was Russian Disinformation.? Yet Hunter is now suing repair shop for taking HIS laptop. Our country is being absolutely destroyed by career cabal back in power. Maybe you should check yourself before you WRECK yourself in WW3 cause it's on our doorstep and people around the world are laughing.

[@rap4880]

💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@oliviaturner7388]

Very articulate, forensic, surgical, and extremely well delivered. Brilliance plus the command of this language, and his subject matter! I’m in awe! This is my 3rd time of watching this documentary, but it never ceases to amaze me!

[@markruffner9143]

This is such a good interview. A must watch in my opinion.

[@Elizabeth-mp6tr]

This interview is incredibly insightful, to the decline of USA democracy.

[@clintmal5630]

It hasn’t been a real President since Calvin Coolidge. That’s the bottom line

[@Yarrb53]

NOT A DEMOCRACY ! NUMBNUTS !

[@umelokarnes5460]

👍👍

[@McLKeith]

Ted Cruz ended up "holding Mussolini's jacket". And as he said "history will not be kind to him".

[@ruthlieberman7157]

Not to mention, TFG must still thinks Cruz’s wife is ugly 😂

[@ahlivetuhsidamaro150]

Great analogy

[@daverobinson6110]

And he will be re elected for life for his trouble. He's not interested in history, he's interested in power.

[@tomsimo9272]

@@ruthlieberman7157 zx vv I

[@lindakelley2676]

Ted needs a new mirror.

[@hannw7]

Wow... this is fascinating and frightening!

[@stevelounsbery3481]

Apparently our elected Representatives have forgotten they take an OATH to SUPPORT & DEFEND our CONSTITUTION from all enemies foreign and domestic. The moment they show they don’t support that oath over party …. It’s time for Americans to choose a new Representative

[@sharingmythoughts1552]

Thank you, Frontline, for sharing this interview.

[@Johnny53kgb-nsa]

I'm a swing voter, an independent. I've voted for about the same amount of Democrat's as I have for Republican's. The politicians that continually fed these lies, knowing the consequences, are a disgrace to our country. Word's have consequences. Our elections are legitimate, and our Democracy depends on this.

[@g0679]

Few swingers are so open.

[@catladyfromky4142]

g0679 But they're the most fun.

[@shootbarney]

First off it’s a constitutional republic. The election was rigged. If you can’t see it you are a big part of the problem. See Seth Keshel’s breakdown of the election by state if you care about seeing both sides of an argument.

[@ThawinginVA]

Remember this quote? 'Whatever they accuse you of is actually what they are doing '

[@alphacentauri.6871]

Thanks Firinglineshow!!! Thanks Tim Alberta!!! Like you said before, we need a miracle in our Country !!!💜👏👏👏👏💜🌈. Share and share Tim Alberta!!👏

[@sircharlessinderhorn3452]

I never thought I’d see such weakness in politicians entrusted to be our leaders.

[@billwalsh388]

They're in a cult. I don't know what to say beyond that.

[@cathichristian4142]

@@billwalsh388 That is the only thing that makes sense to me. I think some are all in and some are being bullied to stay in and some are evil and ambitious.

[@DanielMulloy-bg6gw]

Right, just total cowards.

[@HereComesElSon]

BRILLIANT IN ALL RESPECTS An interview loaded with brilliant analysis and revelatory savvy as I have seldom seen before.

[@mfitzgerald130]

History often repeats itself, Hitler and putrid putin for example trump and ah trump and umm , ok you got me just Trump and trump.

[@ajcbng8289]

Frontline viewing should be a requirement for high school students. You know, since Civics education has ceased to be. Also Math, dictionaries, scholastic book fairs, etc. apparently.

[@lisamcdonald2877]

Correct, with the exception of Math. STEM is the be-all and end-all. Geography is nonexistent, with History minimally addressed.

[@sharonjoy6234]

What impressed me was Tim's book, The Kingdom the Power and the Glory. I wish he would run for President on the independent or interdependent party. Whatever represents the middle of the bird between the 2 wings. To Unite the United States, To correct the break in the liberty bell so that freedom will reign Throughout the land In a pleasant way.

[@erinball7781]

I really loved this book!!

[@robinantonio8870]

Only in America can a person who hasn't held govt office be president regardless of lack of experience or credentials. And look what happened- Trump.

[@carnivaltym]

Idk how true much of what he says was going on in the minds of Republican politicians is true and how much is supposition, but, by God, it has the ring of truth. Very interesting analysis.

[@freedomofreligion3248]

Alberta remarked, "Sanford knowing Trump lacked things like, '...reason, and compromise, and nuance, the very things that make a constitutional republic work...." is notable. And, from here, a memorable understatement. Many intuitions and hunches were solidified by Alberta's astute telling; thank you.

[@okmmauh]

There is no honest debate without freedom of speech

[@ogyaherd9667]

@@okmmauh but not if one side is full of sophistry!

[@johnhbaldwin9178]

The people of this nation need to see Trump in handcuffs going to jail. In that way the old adage that "no one is above the law" can be realized as truthful in the minds of those who think they may be above the law.

[@velikovskysghost]

@John H Baldwin I'd be jumping with joy if I got to see that, and by the way the whole world is watching us right now and we need to stand up against these bullies and put them in their place if we're to stay a world leader!

[@lindakelley2676]

I’m guessing Trump will never spend a day in prison even when indicted. He will be in eternal litigation until he’s dead tho and exposed.

[@annastracke5259]

I am hugely impressed by Mr Alberta- such clarity of thoughts, such wise interpretations, I will buy at least one of his books !!

[@robohauler]

Nothing but respect for this man. A real soldier, honorable 💯 %

[@allaboutlove2295]

Kudos to Tim Alberta. Absolutely brilliant analysis of Trump’s term in office. It all makes perfect sense👏👏👏👏👏

[@jillfeatherman5523]

I’m a republican and he described perfectly the feelings I have towards the republican ruling class.

[@carolinemaybe]

Legit question. I get that you can’t stand the elite of the Party but how do you feel about trump at this point.

[@kateskeys]

Change parties- there is only the party of trump. Republicans don’t exist anymore

[@bebygirl2784]

Im so sick of the republican lies, I was a lifetime Republican until the stop the steal lies started, Trump has been claiming the “stolen” card throughout his career of lying, he even claimed Hillary stole the election before he found out he won, he has a history of it.

[@goldcic]

Are you still a Trumpet? I was a Republican. Trump never was and never will be.

[@johnf8064]

I was, words have meaning.

[@1962terri]

Such a brilliant American journalist! wow just wow! thank you for the truth!

[@nittygritty-ew1ql]

very insightful ... America needs a change in Presidential candidates

[@hippopotamus6765]

Without doubt, this commentary provides the best insights I've heard on this subject.

[@ab-zh5ml]

because it is exactly what you wanted to hear. You want to hear stupid stuff like this. You love being lied to. It feeds your tds.

[@MB-yq3bj]

Such an eye opening for someone who came to this country as an immigrant. Human nature never ceases to surprise… I thought politics is a bit different in this country… such a disappointment. Thank you Frontline for educating us and teaching critical thinking.

[@bonsummers2657]

It's the Democrats which are the main problem of the current era. The Republicans were dumbshits in the WBush era,… that's why I voted for Obama. Trump is the best for the current era,… for the sake of best quality nationhood and world politics.

[@Thegonagle]

The price of freedom, my fellow American, is eternal vigilance.

[@billisaacs702]

I'm sorry you're disappointed. You have come to America at a crucial time, when a progressive (better known as communist) movement within the Democrat party has taken control and is attempting to subvert our republic. All you have to do is look at the last year (since you posted this) to see the lengths to which they will go. Frontline is just another controlled media outlet although they do a better job of appearing to be non partisan than for instance, MSNBC. If you need clarity in this situation, consider that the Democrat party has smeared, bankrupted and jailed their political opponents -- all in the name of "democracy". This is not our history. Politics is different in America or was until 2020. It has gotten downright third world, thanks to the Democrat party, in the last two years.

[@B_Bodziak]

I have lived in the US since being a teenager in the 80s, and I have never seen US politics as painfully divided as it is currently. While Americans may have been divided on specific issues and even divided by party, but I have not seen our legislators also be just as divided. For a representative democracy like the US to work, legislators MUST compromise in order to get anything done. BUT, we currently have a significant number of members of Congress who apparently don't understand that compromise is necessary and are completely unwilling to reach across the aisle. Just yesterday, Marjorie Traitor Greene claimed in an interview that she is going to call for a vote to remove the newly-elected Speaker because he agreed to pass a Bill that keeps the government funded for another month while the House works to pass a 2024 budget. She is claiming that since Democrats wanted to keep the government open/funded, Speaker Johnson essentially "gave the Democrats what they wanted". How utterly juvenile of her. Additionally, Speaker Johnson let it slip in a Fox interview that Trump told him not to allow the Republican-sponsored proposed immigration reform bill to pass because it might actually resolve the "border crisis" and he (Trump) doesn't want to make Biden look good. In other words, Trump and Johnson confirmed what I've known for 35-40 years-- Republicans don't sponsor nor vote to pass any type of immigration reform because they want to use "immigration reform" as a campaign platform and talking point during every election. Republicans aren't interested in fixing anything because that's ALL they have as talking points.

[@stradaveriusfiddle]

Very possibly, the most informed, insightful, informative, and HONEST person who I have been able to listen to about the tragic turn of tides in Washington D.C. since 2015. Thank you, Tim Alberta!

[@ChristopherDusseldorp]

Haha!!! You foool!! He’s completely full of bs!

[@stradaveriusfiddle]

@@ChristopherDusseldorp Really, how? Can you please list five or ten things that he mentioned that you can set the record straight about? Just brief subject descriptions for starters would be nice. That could be a valuable service to so many people here.

[@LordOfLight]

Translation: "He told me everything I wanted to hear".

[@genejones2629]

@@LordOfLight That is so sad, I know you are better than that.

[@LordOfLight]

@@genejones2629 Nope, I'm not better than that; and judging by your crude attempt to patronise, neither are you. - not by a long way I'd say.

[@jjaffee]

I live in southern Florida. And though I’m not a registered Democrat, I always vote left. I am surrounded by and have a good relationship with so many Republicans. I spend a lot of time, since Trump, trying to think of a way to gently shed light. I think about the arguments I could make that would expose the truth. But, it’s like quicksand. The more you struggle, the deeper you sink. The more we punish him for being himself the more his believers come to his aid. They see us democratic voters as bullies. They love Trump because he’s a fighter. They see him as brave. It’s so frustrating. These are my neighbors, many of whom I love. These are my friends, who believe Trump deserves loyalty. I know one thing, exposing trumps weaknesses by calling them out, it’s not going to heal our country. When we point at his flaws, it needs to be done in a way where it doesn’t look like we are pointing. We need to lead them to discover the truth on their own. I used to sit down with my therapist, and she would never give me advice. She would only listen. Sometimes she would just ask one question. And that question would be the only thing she would say in the entire session. I think this is the approach we need to take with our neighbors. We need to ask them a pointed question and leave it at that. We just need to get them thinking on their own again.

[@NickBannan37]

this is just an enfxcellent and brilliant summary of the last years of our craven political landscape

[@aaronwright6058]

Thank you for this information! Now I see what has happened. That , and what cable news had said, time, and time again, what has happened to our Representative Democracy. This is dangerous!

[@Yarrb53]

Representative Constitutional Republic ! NOT A DEMOCRACY ! You don't even know your form of Government, but you're an Expert on it ? But don't feel bad, that brain dead Moron, they installed in the Peoples House, doesn't know either !

[@aaronwright6058]

Actually, it is a Representative Democracy, as compared to a direct democracy. We choose our representatives, and they take part in legislation, and not us as individuals. Be civil, courteous, informative……… There has been no need to insult a Veteran, who took the oath, and is also an Eagle Scout. I would normally have ignored your hostility, and unnecessary correction, but This needs to be said: The person you rudely rebuke may have made more sacrifices for our Republic than you will ever have. Courtesy, and goodness aren’t weaknesses; They are a sign of Class, and intelligence.

[@matthew-jy5jp]

These are some of the best interviews. These journalist know all the right questions to ask.

[@AbbieHoffmansGhost]

Tim may be the most well-spoken person I've ever listened to which makes his words even more frightening.

[@truegodofthunder]

You can't see it Tim, but you are getting a standing ovation from at least one person.... me. Truth after truth after truth. Logical, obvious TRUTH.

[@marybess2464]

The segments with Tim Alberta are GREAT REPORTING! The backstories are fascinating.

[@skronked]

This guy is my hero! "They didn't stand up"

[@DetroitAnalog]

Truth telling... how refreshing.

[@catcadenza2493]

Tim Alberta is very insightful

[@depoquest7928]

This such a great series! To bad none of the people who need to see it, I doubt will. Thanks, Frontline.

[@elmonty79beta]

When you have people who simply have a spirit of contradiction there is little hope. They simply go against anything the other side says to ensure they "stick it to them". No logic or reason, but just because...

[@billwalsh388]

It's important information that needs to be out there.

[@kateskeys]

If they do. They’ll call it fake news.

[@paul..6018]

I'm watching it and I'm impressed with the way the story has been told. Life gets crazy sometimes, and tough to navigate, but I totally agree. As a friend told me once, everyday above ground is a good day That crosses my mind probably three or four times a week and it is very comforting and it is real and it has teeth and it's beautiful

[@sundayhinojosa8114]

Vote Blue for freedom of the Republic

[@heathersoper6923]

This is so good 😊 I’m in the UK and have never had all this explained until now.

[@blondiegreeneyes4802]

I'm sorry for your loss of Queen Elizabeth.

[@sosky4366]

Incredibly insightful and well spoken Tim Alberta! Thoroughly enjoyed this interview.

[@patrickcarpenter4524]

so grateful for all these interviews. thank you, thank you, thank you! it is so fascinating to watch these people and to not only draw the larger conclusions, but to also draw subtle conclusions as to which professions seem to be most acutely aware of the depths of the travesty within DC and across the nation. the one point that i would like for historical record and the need for accountability, is to name names, not just the main characters, but the voting records and those who are on record as perpetuating the lie to their constituents and to cable news outlets. this is about lies - let us identify the liars big and small. it's not petty if it's about the destruction of faith in the system of a democratic government.

[@sueblood7793]

Yup. When exposing the Liars start with the Big Guy and work thru the entire cabinet . Throw in the CIA and FBI and you're making a start.

[@jameshw9751]

@@sueblood7793You’re likely a believer in The Former Guy: the most prolific liar in modern history.

[@rap4880]

💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@rap4880]

​@@sueblood7793- the entire leadership of the Republican Party, from Trump on down to the lowest officer in the nation, are a bunch of pathological liars. They lie about EVERYTHING.

[@SwisstedChef2018]

Love to hearing the truth. Tim nails it.

[@caseymmmaher]

This interview was incredible. Brilliant speaker. Thank you Frontline. What would we do without you?!?

[@superclaymaster]

There’s a bunch of good media creators getting started. You do have to look for them though.

[@mikewhite4560]

Read AMERICAN CARNAGE by Tim

[@Toquer88]

Without him, we might have a balanced discussion.

[@democracianoesgratis]

@@Toquer88 and without you we could save democracy

[@Toquer88]

@@democracianoesgratis Right? Because Democrats didn't claim Trump was an illegitimate president from the day he was elected. Democrat forces and deep state actors committed the greatest political hoax in the history of this country with the Russia Hoax. Because Democrats have voted to decertify electors for at least the last 4 presidential elections they have lost. Because Democrats stirred up a bullshit impeachment because a Ukrainian investigation might hurt the Democrat candidate. Democrats fight voter UD. Democrat run districts and counties and states made last minute changes to voting methods and security measures. I e. they ignore signature rules, accept late ballots, kick out poll watchers. Sorry if I don't find Democrats to be the arbiters of true democracy.

[@lindalambertson6294]

We desperately need to demand decency, honesty, intelligence, a willingness to work across the isle again, and people who show respect to the positions that they have been entrusted with. We have to let our government know we will not put up with using our White House as cover for criminal behavior. Or use our Senate, Congress or any other position in government for their gain over the good of the country. ENOUGH!! Make calls, write letters and vote! 🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸

[@stregalilith]

Tim Alberta has a deep understanding of the dynamics of power and politics and knows so much about Washington DC it's a joy to listen to him. His ability to translate what he knows to the rest of us in a fascinating and compelling way is wonderful.

[@LostLeftyLimb]

Ive been watching these segments regularly and it’s some of the best “how did this happen” content out. So in-depth, and honest. Desperately needed in the time of sound bite “journalism”. PBS is such a valuable public institution.

[@adrienbancroft7895]

It really doesn't get any better then Frontline. Can't even recall a close second.

[@billwalsh388]

We should be asking survivors of the T.hird Reich

[@B_Bodziak]

​@@billwalsh388 There aren't many left who weren't very young children at the time. If you want to see something terrifying, have a look at Project 2025 and what they're planning to do with the very next Republican POTUS.

[@melflo4651]

Powerful interview

[@redbhdfw104]

He’s a brilliant commentator.

[@DennisRichardH]

It is Mano a mano, which means hand to hand. The misquote “Mano y mano” means hand AND hand… which is not the phrase intended.

[@patj4952]

Tim Alberta is spot on. This interview opens up the psyche of the Rethug party and what they are willing to do to retain power and how corruptible they are.

[@Shinobi33]

Lol by any chance have you had a chance to check the Elon Musk Twitter data dump? You know the company wide effort to collude with the DNC and media to censor conservatives and anyone they deemed an enemy to their agenda. Any comments?

[@OnthelevelwithTracyToffton]

Funny how we find out 3 mths later when Elon buys Twitter and we find out what the Democrat party or the Dumbocrat party was hiding the whole time! 😂

[@terrytaylor9460]

@@OnthelevelwithTracyToffton What an elementary response! (He hit me first) how Trumpian!

[@lisadobecki2641]

PBS needs to add thr fact that there was no Russia collusion and it was a fake dossier bought and paid for by Hillary Clinton and what the CIA and fbi did

[@rhondabryant667]

Amen!!

[@seguelawrencedoering394]

Tim Alberta is so articulate. Can’t wait to read his book.

[@clarkindee]

I watched this entire interview -- brilliant guy. How do we restore confidence in our democracy? After the GOP has done everything it can to trash that faith. That should be the work of our entire generation.

[@johnlocke8389]

Sorry, but you sound extremely brainwashed. Wake up and smell the stench of endemic corruption on both sides.

[@MarioIArguello]

Very illuminating, ever citizen should see these documentaries. It is very comforting to hear some of the very same concerns that I am certain thousands of people had and have when it comes to DT.

[@Bronzebk]

Wow! This was absolutely engrossing👍🏼

[@patriciahenkleman6241]

Tim , I am a 66 yr old widow and it's nice to know there are young men like you out there telling us Americans how it really is

[@18_rabbit]

exactly! i'm a 'mere' early 50's and in past few yrs have been realizing we need younger ppl to start doing the very intense work that is needed. Of course many ppl of any age can do a ton, but it's just not the same as having all gen's involved, particularly in a moment like this, which has some similarities to the '67 to early '70's period.

[@jean-claudearsenault224]

Telling=Talking=No action

[@Stethacanthus]

​@@jean-claudearsenault224that's incredibly naive. Words without action are more powerful than actions without words. The pen is mightier than the sword. Words give rise to action, and actions give rise to words. Those words can recontextualize those actions and change their effect. That's why the first thing a tyrant takes away is your voice, not your weapons or your tools. That's why the first thing a movement hears is "shut up about it already". If you can't be heard, your actions become "proof" of whatever the pens want to write. You shine a light on corruption: you're a political muckraker who just hates the politician and their base. Help someone escape perseucution: you're denying the people justice against a fugitive. Try to disagree with a figure of authority: you're a subversive agent trying to undermine them. Not everyone needs to speak about this all or the time, but we always need people speaking about this. Otherwise there can be no meaningful action.

[@jean-claudearsenault224]

@@Stethacanthus I'm Acadian, my ancestors came to Canada in 1604, from France. France called the North Americain colony New-France. But France lost New-France to England in 1763, France formally ceded Canada to the British. France was involved with the The 'Seven Years War' just let the New colony go to England. This laid the bicultural foundations of modern Canada. On the other hand the Riff Raff English that came to the US, turned traitor to the Mother land. From 1765 to now, it's went bad to worse. Looks like a second Civil War is hmmm, possible. Traitor.

[@imagrandpa]

A nobody giving an opinion you agree with means nothing!

[@noneya7297]

I love it! 💯 percent accurate

[@jacquelinekirkpatrick8028]

What a magnificent, cogent breakdown of the events of the past four years. I feel privileged to have listened to this man.

[@revealingserendipity9840]

So simple and so truthful. Very well said. Too bad it won't be watched by Republicans who voted for him, lied for ohim and committed crimes for him.

[@jstnaguglu3380]

From a perspective of an european (Slovenia), i do belive USA was on it's lowest point. By far. How is it even possible? Great great interview, indeed.

[@williamyoung9401]

This says it all right there. (1:09:20)

[@18_rabbit]

@@jstnaguglu3380 yep & we here are still unrolling/unwrapping it, through reflection and through the legal investigations which have revealed totally unprecedented crimes against the public trust, by rightwing ideologues and fascists, i.e cowardly enablers of their thug-like overlords such as Trump or DeSantis, who just made a nihilist fascistic homophobic ad, for which he will lose his career, imho.

[@edwardfiorvante6123]

I appreciate this as well! I actually emailed this gentleman and he sent me the Mega Millions numbers. Pure genius and somehow knows the future and is a mind reader.

[@lisa4264]

Every state in America needs to change the elementary curriculum by introducing lessons in government instead of introducing it in 11th grade. Introducing it right along with math, reading, and writing. As it is becoming more evident sons and daughters of congressmen are filling seats in the White House. Why? They had the exposure. Nepotism will breed only contempt for the "masses". Often I heard a politician or media person speak of protecting our "sacred" democracy, but when this country(and seems purposely) omits building block lessons that span over 13 years, it sets us up, we the people" for the failure of democracy. It is the system in which we live and work, and most are only left with opinions coupled with feelings of hopelessness. if Democracy is so important, Washington D.C., then start cultivating constituents that will grow to have the same opportunity as your children.

[@rap4880]

Amen.

[@lisa4264]

@@rap4880 thank you.

[@aviewer9516]

This man is really impressive, so glad this came in my video feed.

[@The-Butcher-Jaegerkorpset]

Wow, an intellectually honest Republican with morals, reason and self-awareness. It is very refreshing. There might be enough of them left in the United States to actually make a baseball team.