First published: 2022

Preface to the Paperback Edition
Introduction
Part I — The Protective Edifice and the Demolition Crew

Chapter 1 — The Protective Edifice
Chapter 2 — The Demolition Crew

Part II — Demolition Strategies

Chapter 3 — Appointing Toxic Leaders
Chapter 4 — Dismantling Agencies
Chapter 5 — Denigrating Expertise
Chapter 6 — Stepping on the Brake
Chapter 7 — Shifting into Reverse
Chapter 8 — Sophisticated Sabotage
Chapter 9 — Promiscuous Permitting
Chapter 10 — Failure to Enforce
Chapter 11 — Impediments to Demolition

Part III — The Demolition Agenda for the Second Trump Administration

Chapter 12 — What to Expect from the Second Trump Administration

Part IV — Rebuilding the Protective Edifice

Chapter 13 — Saving and Enhancing Protective Government

Acknowledgments
Notes

Now revised with a new preface and final chapter on what to expect from the current administration and how we can secure a thriving collective future--both socially and economically. In the wake of a return to Trump-era governance, Demolition Agenda is more urgent than ever, revealing the ministration's destruction of our government institutions--exposing Americans to greater risks while empowering corporate interests. Thomas O. McGarity, author, legal scholar, and former president of Center for Progressive Reform, profiles the toxic leaders and intricate strategies that the Trump administration employed to rid the government of protective policies and institutions--harming the health of a nation and accelerating climate change and economic turmoil. Including: Scott Pruitt's corruption scandal at the EPA; Elaine Chao's weakening of transportation safety measures; Ryan Zinke's stint as secretary of the interior before he faced eighteen federal inquiries and was fired; And the actions and impacts of other controversial figures such as Rick Perry, Betsy DeVos, Sonny Perdue, and Andrew Puzder. While chronicling these abuses of power that defined the first Trump administration, McGarity also provides precise clarity on what we can continue to expect from the rest of his current term, what further harm can be done, and what this means for the future of our nation. While harrowing at times, Demolition Agenda ends hopefully, with a new chapter that provides a road map for future progressive politicians to reinstate a safe, healthy, and equitable society for all Americans--and most importantly, regain their trust