As Washington prepares for the possibility of Donald Trump’s return to power, a somber mood envelops the capital, manifesting in gallows humor and discussions of escape routes.
Amidst jokes about fleeing to Portugal, Australia, or Canada, there’s an underlying unease among many in the political elite.
The fear stems from Trump’s rhetoric of vengeance and authoritarianism, promising to root out perceived enemies and prosecute adversaries if given a second chance at the presidency.
This talk has sparked genuine concern, with some contemplating self-imposed exile to evade potential repercussions.
Amid Gallows Humor and Escape Talks, D.C. Faces the Grim Reality of a Second Trump Term
Former Trump administration official Miles Taylor notes a recent surge in these conversations, with people recognizing the potential for a “slash and burn” approach under a second Trump term.
Trump’s disruptive stance appeals to his base as he positions himself against the establishment, stoking anxieties among Washington insiders.
While some dismiss these concerns as exaggerated, others take them seriously. Representative Stephanie Murphy humorously mentions Portugal as her escape plan, highlighting the dark irony of contemplating refuge from political persecution, a reality she experienced in her childhood fleeing Vietnam.
Trump ally David Urban attributes the panic to an inability to see past Trump’s bluster, dismissing it as “Trump derangement syndrome.” He argues that checks and balances would temper any extreme actions, maintaining the stability of democracy.
Yet, for many in Washington, the specter of Trump’s return looms large. Discussions of escape routes are not merely attention-seeking tactics but genuine expressions of concern.
Despite the familiar rhetoric of leaving the country in the face of political defeat, the seriousness of the current discourse underscores the gravity of the situation.
Prominent figures, including current and former officials, diplomats, and journalists, contemplate contingency plans, from researching ancestral ties for foreign passports to scouting properties abroad.
While some express optimism in the resilience of American institutions, others take practical steps to prepare for the worst-case scenario.
In the face of uncertainty, there’s a mix of gallows humor and genuine apprehension gripping Washington.
Whether these fears materialize remains to be seen, but the mere possibility of a Trump resurgence has prompted soul-searching and contingency planning among the political elite.
