Welcome to Trump’s Mafia State

In this episode, the columnist M. Gessen argues that when it comes to America’s institutions, President Trump is taking a page out of a Soviet-style playbook.

Thoughts? Emails us at theopinions@nytimes.com.

This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Vishakha Darbha. It was edited by Alison Bruzek and Annie-Rose Strasser. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Jillian Weinberger. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Isaac Jones, Sonia Herrero and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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