Opinion | Americans Don’t Want War With Iran. Trump Doesn’t Care.

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by Michelle Goldberg

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article contrasts former President George W. Bush's approach to justifying war in Iraq with Donald Trump's current stance on a potential conflict with Iran. While Bush's administration engaged in significant efforts to sway public opinion through deceptive tactics like leaking false intelligence and misleading congressional debates, Trump appears indifferent to such measures. Unlike Bush, who recognized the importance of convincing the American people, Trump is bypassing traditional democratic processes, raising concerns about his commitment to transparency and public consent. The article highlights that Trump's administration is preparing for a significant military campaign against Iran without seeking authorization from Congress or adequately informing the public. This lack of communication has led to uncertainty about the objectives of such a war, with no clear explanation provided on why it might be necessary. The buildup of military forces in the region and reports suggesting potential strikes as soon as this weekend underscore the urgency, yet there is little indication that the administration values public or congressional input. This approach raises alarms about the erosion of democratic norms, as Trump seems willing to engage in major military actions without justifying them to either Congress or the American people. The article suggests that such behavior reflects an autocratic tendency, diminishing trust in government and setting a concerning precedent for future decisions. The lack of transparency not only undermines public confidence but also questions the administration's

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026