Scott analyzes how Trump's damaging tariffs are not just a personal quirk but a predictable result of right-wing populism's strategy of bypassing institutional checks, arguing this makes the left a better starting point for reform despite its own flaws. Longer summary

Scott argues that Trump's tariffs are not just a personal quirk but a predictable consequence of right-wing populist ideology, which seeks to bypass institutional checks and balances. He explains how populism's strategy of circumventing institutions and cultivating loyalty makes it impossible to stop bad policies when they arise. The post compares this to how the institutional left would handle similar situations, uses the current tariff situation as evidence that the populist approach is more dangerous, and concludes that the left, despite its own problems, might be a better starting point for reform. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander endorses Harris, Oliver, or Stein for the 2024 US presidential election, arguing against Trump's authoritarianism while acknowledging and countering arguments that Democrats may be more subtly authoritarian. Longer summary

Scott Alexander endorses Kamala Harris, Oliver, or Stein for the 2024 US presidential election, recommending Harris in swing states and Harris or a third-party candidate in safe states. He argues against Trump primarily on the grounds of authoritarianism, comparing the threat to Hugo Chavez's Venezuela. Scott acknowledges the strongest counter-argument that Democrats may be more subtly authoritarian, but ultimately rejects it for four reasons: the importance of punishing clear norm violations, current political headwinds favoring the right, personal integrity, and Trump's own authoritarian tendencies. The post ends with a reflection on the psychological tendency to view elections as a two-character drama between oneself and the Democratic Party, urging readers to consider the full comparison between candidates. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander reviews a book about Hugo Chavez, analyzing his rise to power, rule, and impact on Venezuela, while drawing parallels to other populist leaders. Longer summary

Scott Alexander reviews 'Comandante', a book about Hugo Chavez's rise to power and rule in Venezuela. The review describes Chavez as a charismatic showman who used populist tactics, media control, and oil wealth to consolidate power, while implementing policies that ultimately damaged Venezuela's economy and institutions. Scott draws parallels between Chavez and other populist leaders, particularly Donald Trump, and reflects on the vulnerabilities of democratic systems to such figures. Shorter summary