Why Obama’s White House didn’t ‘see Trump coming’
Barack Obama’s aides reportedly failed to anticipate Donald Trump’s rise as a political force, according to a newly released oral history of the Obama years. The book depicts Trump as a wildcard who disrupted traditional Democratic and Republican playbooks, catching many senior officials off guard.
The volumes recount internal misgivings about Trump’s appeal, including his ability to appeal to working-class voters and his mastery of media coverage. They reflect a broader sense within the White House of underestimating Trump’s durability and political traction.
Authors portray a presidency focused on defined policy goals and coalition-building, with Trump’s unconventional approach ultimately challenging established assumptions and reshaping the 2016 electoral landscape.
Developing story.