What “deep state” does he keep talking about? The essential

The term “deep state” generally conjures up a secret illuminati that is the real power behind the curtains – made up of spies, criminals, military leaders and businessmen.

In the world of US President Donald Trump, this now refers to civil servants who have worked for the government for years.

These are “legacies” of previous administrations, and they block his agenda and policy reversals. At least that's the mantra he repeats at his nationwide campaign rallies.

But is Trump using this construction as a punching bag to present himself as an outsider who fights the powers that be?

The “deep state” has become a permanent fixture in America’s culture wars, and Trump is using it to energize his base.

So, what is the reality of the “deep state” in American politics? Join Steve Clemons as he moderates a discussion on the ramifications of the president's constant diatribes against government bureaucrats and diplomats.

Guests:

Elaine Kamarck – Director, Center for Effective Public Management at the Brookings Institution

Adolfo Franco – Republican strategist and former U.S. Agency for International Development executive

John Neffinger – Former Communications Director, Democratic National Committee

– Subscribe to our channel: http://aje.io/AJSubscribe
– Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish
– Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera
– Visit our website: https://www.aljazeera.com/

#AlJazeeraEnglish #US #Trump