What really makes a president a strong leader? The author of an explosive book about Donald Trump joins to explain how language shapes our view of leadership. Next, we look at sports betting. It's quickly become a massive industry but at what cost? Finally, our Fun Fact explores a feeling that might seem strangely familiar: déjà vu.
When people describe a leader as "strong," it often has less to do with policies or accomplishments and more to do with language and style. At least that's what Dr. Jennifer Mercieca, a political rhetoric expert at Texas A&M, believes and, to her, Donald Trump is the perfect example. Her book Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump explores how performance and speech have, again, come to dominate American politics.
Then, in the midst of the World Series and an exciting NFL season, we turn to sports betting. In less than a decade, wagering in sports has become a multi-billion dollar business. The industry’s rapid growth thanks to convenient mobile apps and non-stop advertising has attracted new fans while raising questions about its broader effects. What is it doing to sports? Fans? And why is there such a HUGE generational divide in American opinion about it?
Finally, our Fun Fact lightens things up with a topic that might feel oddly familiar — déjà vu.