In a scathing new critique, former US Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has denounced Donald Trump's recent efforts to cement his legacy through various memorialization projects, including placing his image on currency and attaching his name to major sports venues.
A Controversial Push for Immortality
The former Bill Clinton administration official used his popular Substack platform to voice strong opposition to what he characterizes as Trump's dictator-style approach to self-memorialization. Reich specifically referenced Trump's push to appear on a $1 coin and have the Washington Commanders' stadium bear his name, among other potential tributes.
While Reich acknowledged that the former president deserves to be remembered, he emphatically stated this should not be as a heroic figure. The longtime critic of Trump's economic policies and political approach outlined an alternative vision for how history should remember the 45th president.
An Alternative Memorial Proposal
Rather than celebratory honors, Reich proposed constructing a simple building made of iron and cement that would serve as a permanent record of Trump's political legacy. This structure would specifically document what Reich characterizes as attacks on democracy and would list the names of everyone who assisted Trump in these endeavors.
The proposed building would be crowned with the stark words Trump's Treason, making its critical perspective unmistakable. Reich suggested this alternative memorial could occupy space on the White House lawn, specifically replacing the $300 million ballroom that Trump controversially built after razing the East Wing.
The Broader Political Context
This proposal comes amid ongoing national conversations about how to properly document and remember the Trump presidency. Reich's commentary reflects deeper concerns among some political observers about how leaders seek to shape their historical legacies.
The former Labor Secretary's extensive essay provides detailed analysis of Trump's approach to power and legacy-building. Readers can find the complete piece on his Substack newsletter, where he regularly offers commentary on current political and economic developments.
