Journalists Say Trump Wields Power More Freely in 2nd Term as Loyalists Tighten White House
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 18
Journalists Say Trump Wields Power More Freely in 2nd Term as Loyalists Tighten White House
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 18
Summary
Atlantic reporters said Trump has returned as a more "unfettered" president, more comfortable using the levers of power after what they called a historic political comeback.
Susie Wiles and Stephen Miller were cited as key reasons: Wiles for imposing discipline and Miller for helping design a bigger, faster and more ruthless second-term operation.
That tighter structure has reduced leaks and made it harder for reporters to get inside-the-room details, with journalists describing a White House that now operates as a unified body.
Missy Ryan said the Pentagon has gone months without a formal press briefing, though Michael Scherer argued the administration still offers more access than the tightly controlled Obama and Biden White Houses.
Scherer said Trump also appears driven by legacy in what he framed as a last chance to make his mark, giving the second term a more deliberate and nostalgic tone.
As the Pentagon quietly abandons international civilian protection protocols, how will this sudden operational shift reshape global military alliances?