Is the US in a Political Revolution? (with Ian Bremmer) - Stay Tuned with Preet Recap

Podcast: Stay Tuned with Preet

Published: 2026-01-08

Duration: 1 hr 6 min

Guests: Ian Bremmer

Summary

Ian Bremmer presents his Top Risks Report for 2026, identifying a 'political revolution' in the U.S. as the top risk, driven by Trump's efforts to dismantle traditional checks and balances. The episode delves into the implications of this and other geopolitical risks like the Donro Doctrine and water scarcity.

What Happened

Ian Bremmer, founder of Eurasia Group, discusses the Top Risks Report for 2026, which places a potential 'political revolution' in the United States as the greatest risk. Bremmer describes this revolution as an attempt by Donald Trump to dismantle checks on his power, fundamentally altering the U.S. political system. He compares this to historical revolutions in China and the Soviet Union, emphasizing the uncertainty in what the U.S. political landscape will look like post-revolution.

A significant part of the discussion focuses on the new 'Donro Doctrine,' a foreign policy strategy attributed to Trump. This doctrine is seen as an extension of the Monroe Doctrine, but with broader implications, potentially undermining U.S. credibility with its allies. Bremmer argues that unilateral actions by the U.S., such as those in Venezuela, could weaken alliances and embolden rivals like China.

Regarding Venezuela, Bremmer predicts that the U.S. action is fueled by Trump's desire to remove Nicolás Maduro, rather than concerns about oil or drugs. He notes that figures like Marco Rubio and Stephen Miller have influenced this policy direction, suggesting a raid to bring Maduro to face justice in the U.S.

Bremmer also highlights risks involving energy, water scarcity, and state capitalism with American characteristics as major concerns. He warns that water scarcity, especially between India and Pakistan, could lead to increased regional tensions and radicalization.

The conversation touches on the role of AI as a geopolitical risk, mentioning China's deflation trap and how it could affect global economic dynamics. Bremmer stresses the importance of understanding these risks in a global context, as they have implications for regions beyond the U.S., including Canada, Europe, and Brazil.

In a different segment, Preet Bharara answers listener questions about the prosecution of Nicolás Maduro in New York, explaining that the Southern District of New York often handles international cases due to financial transactions linked to the city. He also reflects on the educational impact of the 'Schoolhouse Rock' series, particularly its lessons on American governance.

Key Insights