Washington insiders role-played a second Trump presidency. Can it save democracy?

In a DC-area hotel, Democrats and Republicans met to wargame five scenarios they say are not unrealistic'

It is the afternoon of 20 January 2025 and Donald Trump is in his White House dining room, glued to the same TV where he sat transfixed as the January 6 attack on the US Capitol unfolded four years ago. This morning, he completed one of the most spectacular political comebacks in US history, reciting the oath of office at the inauguration ceremony that returned him to the most powerful job on Earth.

His political resurrection has caused turmoil in the transition period, and massive anti-Trump demonstrations have erupted in several big cities. In his inaugural address, the 47th president makes clear his intention to deal with his detractors: They are rioting in the streets. We are not safe. Make our cities safe again!" he commands.