Frontline Season 39 Episode 3
Frontline
Season 39

Ep 3. America's Great Divide: From Obama To Trump, Pt. 2

  • January 14, 2020

America's Great Divide: From Obama to Trump, Pt. 2 is the third episode of the 39th season of Frontline, an award-winning documentary series that examines pressing issues using in-depth reporting, interviews, and analysis. In this episode, Frontline continues its exploration of the political and cultural rifts that have deepened in the United States since the election of Donald Trump as president.

The episode examines the aftermath of Trump's election, focusing on how his rhetoric and policies have impacted American democracy, race relations, and the media landscape. Through interviews with political strategists, journalists, activists, and ordinary Americans, Frontline presents a nuanced and complex picture of the current political climate.

One of the main themes of the episode is the impact of Trump's rhetoric on race relations and identity politics. Frontline explores how Trump's campaign tapped into a sense of white resentment and fear, stoking divisions between different racial and ethnic groups. The episode also examines the rise of the alt-right, a loosely-defined movement of far-right activists who have embraced white nationalism and anti-Semitic conspiracy theories.

Another major topic in the episode is the media's role in the current political climate. Frontline interviews journalists and media analysts to examine how the rise of the internet and social media have transformed the news landscape. They explore the impact of "fake news" and "alternative facts" on public opinion, as well as the challenges facing traditional news outlets in the era of Trump.

The episode also delves into the political maneuvering surrounding Trump's policies, including his attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, roll back environmental regulations, and implement a travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries. Frontline examines the role of Congress, the courts, and public protest in shaping the debate.

Throughout the episode, Frontline provides a deep and richly textured portrait of the current political landscape in the United States. They examine the ways in which long-standing cultural and economic divides have been exacerbated by Trump's presidency, and offer insight into the challenges facing the country as it moves forward.

Overall, America's Great Divide: From Obama to Trump, Pt. 2 is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of some of the most pressing issues facing the country today. By bringing together a wide range of perspectives and experiences, Frontline presents a nuanced and complex view of the United States in the age of Trump.

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Description
  • First Aired
    January 14, 2020
  • Language
    English