Opinion | Inside Trump’s ‘Royal Court’

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by Ezra Klein and Jack McCordick

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Inside Trump’s "Royal Court": A Shift in White House Dynamics The Atlantic's Ashley Parker and Michael Scherer provide an insightful look into how Donald Trump's White House operates during his second term, contrasting it with the chaos of his first. While the first term was marked by factional infighting and constant leaks, the second term has seen a more loyal staff and less visible internal conflict. This shift has resulted in a focus on executing significant actions rather than reporting on internal drama. The authors highlight how Trump's White House has evolved into what they describe as a "royal court," where loyalty to Trump is paramount. Decisions are made with minimal leaks, but key questions remain: who influences Trump? How do his advisors shape his decisions? And who ultimately wields power—Trump himself or those around him? Parker and Scherer emphasize the importance of understanding these dynamics, especially as major events like the Minneapolis protests and Venezuela tensions unfold. Their expertise in covering Trump and his inner circle makes them uniquely qualified to shed light on how decisions are made and whether they align with Trump's agenda or serve other interests. This exploration of power and decision-making within Trump’s White House is crucial for anyone seeking to understand the administration’s actions and motivations. By examining the balance between loyalty and self-interest among Trump’s advisors, the piece offers valuable insights into the inner workings of one of the most scrutinized presidencies in modern history.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026