New Book Links Roy Cohn to Trump's Second-Term Abuses

A new book posits that Roy Cohn, Donald Trump's longtime mentor, is the principal architect of the abuses of power anticipated in a potential second Trump administration. Titled "A Cabinet Full of Roy Cohns," the book, authored by journalist and historian David Corn, asserts that Cohn's influence on Trump extends beyond their initial association in the 1970s and 1980s, shaping Trump's approach to law, loyalty, and governance. Corn details Cohn's career as a ruthless lawyer and advisor, known for his aggressive tactics, disregard for legal norms, and cultivation of personal loyalty over institutional integrity. The book draws parallels between Cohn's methods and Trump's own political style, suggesting that a second Trump presidency would likely see a replication and amplification of these traits.

Corn's analysis focuses on how Cohn's philosophy of power, characterized by attacking opponents, undermining institutions, and demanding absolute fealty, has been internalized by Trump. The book examines specific instances from Trump's first term, such as his rhetoric towards the judiciary, the press, and intelligence agencies, as well as his approach to investigations and personnel decisions, arguing these reflect Cohn's playbook. The author contends that if Trump were to win a second term, he would surround himself with individuals who embody Cohn's principles, leading to a presidency that prioritizes personal power and retribution over democratic norms and the rule of law. The book highlights Cohn's role in McCarthyism and his later work with wealthy and powerful clients, showcasing a pattern of behavior that Corn argues Trump has adopted and adapted.

The book's central thesis is that understanding Roy Cohn is crucial to understanding the potential trajectory of a future Trump presidency. Corn argues that Cohn, who died in 1986, left a lasting legacy on Trump's worldview and his understanding of how to wield power. The author meticulously traces Cohn's influence through Trump's business dealings and his political ascent, suggesting that the former president views loyalty as transactional and institutions as obstacles to be overcome or manipulated. The book explores how Cohn's cynical approach to politics and law, which prioritized winning at all costs and personal loyalty above all else, has become a blueprint for Trump's political operations. Corn's research involves extensive archival work and interviews, aiming to provide a comprehensive historical and psychological portrait of Cohn and his enduring impact on one of America's most prominent political figures.

"A Cabinet Full of Roy Cohns" aims to serve as a cautionary tale, warning readers about the potential consequences of a presidency guided by the principles Cohn espoused. The book suggests that Trump's past actions are not isolated incidents but rather consistent with a deeply ingrained modus operandi shaped by his mentor. Corn's narrative emphasizes that Cohn was not merely a lawyer but a strategist who understood how to leverage power and public perception to achieve his goals, often through ethically questionable means. The book's publication comes at a time of heightened political polarization and scrutiny of Trump's past and future intentions, positioning it as a significant contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding his political career and its implications for American democracy. The author's detailed examination of Cohn's life and methods provides a framework for interpreting Trump's behavior and anticipating potential actions in a future administration.