Lawmakers accuse Donald Trump of running White House like a 'mob boss': Report
WASHINGTON, DC: Ever since Donald Trump returned to the White House for his second term in January 2025, the political climate has become more chaotic than ever.
With confusion mounting and critics speaking out, lawmakers are comparing Trump’s leadership style to that of a "mob boss," alleging he uses intimidation to control his party and dominate the political stage.
In a detailed report in Vanity Fair, it described Trump's way as "The Godfather Presidency."
Democratic Rep Jamie Raskin says Donald Trump turned GOP into a 'mafia operation'
Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin raised concerns about Donald Trump’s tight grip over the Republican Party, saying it’s like a "mafia operation,” during a conversation with Sam Tanenhaus for the Vanity Fair report.
It may also be due to a rumor going around about Republicans' "control of the Treasury’s payment" to Blue states and how they want to spend on them.
He described a culture of fear spreading across the party, where GOP members are scared to defy Trump due to threats of retaliation.
Raskin further shared that Republican newcomers face intense pressure to comply.
“If you’re a freshman Republican and they’re telling you Elon Musk will drop $5 million to defeat you in a primary… you’re not going to mess with them anymore,” he said.
He added, "You’re just going to get in line like sheep. But remember, the longer it goes on, the more power they have over you.”
Elon Musk's exit has shifted Republican Party's command under Donald Trump
Tech billionaire Elon Musk, who became an adviser to Donald Trump at the start of his second term, has now distanced himself from the president.
Once presenting themselves as united political forces, the two have fallen out following public disputes and clashing agendas.
Following Musk's exit from the administration, the Republican Party has reportedly shifted under Trump’s command, favoring only those who prove their loyalty to the 79-year-old president.
Many traditional conservatives have either adjusted their views or lost influence, making room for MAGA supporters to take center stage.
Those loyal to Trump are often seen in front of cameras, leading press events, and enjoying privileges tied to his brand of politics. Despite multiple legal battles and two impeachments, Trump’s supporters now see him as a “folk hero.”
Sam Tanenhaus says Donald Trump is now seen as ‘mythically big’
In the Vanity Fair article, Sam Tanenhaus wrote that Donald Trump is widely recognized as the most dominant political figure of the 21st century, comparing him to former presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan.
“As mythically big as Franklin Roosevelt or Ronald Reagan were in the 20th,” Tanenhaus wrote.
Still, the president continues to draw sharp criticism. Detractors accuse him of leading the country into authoritarianism and running his administration like a "cult," as per the Vanity Fair report.
For Trump, maintaining his legacy is a key priority, with an aggressive media strategy and strict expectations of loyalty from allies.
Donald Trump says military school gave him discipline after a rebellious childhood
Donald Trump’s leadership style is believed to reflect his upbringing under Fred Trump, a harsh real estate mogul in New York. His older brother, Fred Trump Jr, died due to complications from alcoholism, an event that deeply affected Donald Trump.
“My father thought it would be good for discipline reasons. I was just somebody who was rebellious,” Trump told Sky News while recalling his time at military school. He also shared how Freddy’s death left a lasting void in his life.
Many believe that Trump’s transactional way of operating — demanding loyalty and expecting returns — comes from those early life experiences.
“Most of the people on this stage, I’ve given a lot of money to,” Trump once said during a GOP debate, as per Inquister. “When they call, I give. And when I need something from them… they’re there for me.”
Trump, known for his bold ambitions, has shared his desire to have his face carved onto Mount Rushmore. While no steps have been taken toward that goal, it remains to be seen how he may get it done, as experts have turned down the suggestion.
