The Destructionists: The Twenty-Five Year Crack-Up of the Republican Party Dana Milbank

In Dana Milbank's incisive critique, he chronicles the Republican Party's trajectory over a quarter-century, from its ambitious "Contract with America" to the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Milbank contends that the party, once rooted in the ideals of Lincoln and Reagan, has regressed into a haven for white supremacists, conspiracy theorists, and authoritarianism.

Milbank dissects the roles of influential figures like Newt Gingrich, Karl Rove, Mitch McConnell, and Rudy Giuliani in the party's evolution. He meticulously documents the descent into political violence and the embrace of conspiracy theories, culminating in the shocking events of January 6, 2021.

Through exhaustive research and analysis, Milbank presents a damning portrayal of the GOP's shift towards extremism and its unyielding pursuit of power. His work serves as a stark warning about the perils of political polarization and the erosion of democratic norms in the United States. Milbank's critique underscores the urgent need for accountability and a reevaluation of the principles guiding American politics.