Gary Franks: Epstein, Nixon, The Godfather, and The Apprentice

A Nostalgic Reflection on Pop Culture and Politics

There’s something undeniably powerful about the way certain movies, TV shows, and political figures can leave a lasting impression. For many, The Godfather, The Apprentice, and former President Richard Nixon are more than just cultural references—they’re symbols of power, influence, and moral ambiguity. These elements have not only shaped our collective memory but also seem to be making a return in today’s political landscape.

The Godfather, often considered one of the greatest films of all time, has a way of mirroring real-world events. When I think of Donald Trump, I’m immediately drawn to the character of Michael Corleone. Like the godfather, Trump has a tendency to make offers that are hard to refuse—whether it's through his business deals or his political maneuvering. Universities like Columbia and Brown have found themselves in situations where they couldn’t say no, much like the characters in the film.

Michael Corleone is known for taking out his enemies, whether real or perceived. Similarly, Trump has a history of targeting those who oppose him, often without facing any consequences. In fact, these actions sometimes bolster his image rather than damage it. This pattern of behavior echoes the themes seen in The Godfather II, where the godfather sends his lawyer to meet with a convicted friend in prison. The lawyer thanks the individual for their silence and encourages them to “let it go” in exchange for family support.

Today, we see a similar dynamic playing out with Trump’s former personal lawyer, now Deputy Attorney General of the Justice Department, meeting with Ghislane Maxwell, a convicted felon. The reasons behind this meeting remain unclear, but it raises questions about transparency and accountability. The Jeffrey Epstein files, which detail Epstein’s heinous crimes, should be released without revealing the identities of the victims. These crimes, which involved sexually molesting young girls, are comparable to the abuses committed by Catholic priests against boys.

Public sentiment is clear: 81% of Americans blame Trump for withholding the Epstein files from public scrutiny. Despite distractions and partisan narratives, the American people are increasingly aware of the truth. After meeting with Trump’s former lawyer, Maxwell was moved to a low-security prison in Texas, a facility once known as a "country club prison." Today, such facilities resemble campus-like environments with dormitories. It’s a stark contrast to the severity of her crimes.

During this same period, another historical moment resurfaced. Richard Nixon, after stepping down from the presidency following impeachment proceedings, famously claimed, “When the president does it, that means it’s not illegal.” This statement shocked the nation and reflected a dangerous precedent. Decades later, the Supreme Court nearly echoed Nixon’s words by granting presidential immunity for “official acts.” This decision opened the door for future presidents to act with impunity, potentially leading to unchecked power and abuse.

Nixon and Trump share several troubling similarities. Both used racial strategies to gain political support. Nixon’s “southern strategy” was rooted in racism, while Trump frequently makes unnecessary and unprovoked racial attacks. Neither leader pushed for diversity or integration; instead, they were content with segregation. Both faced impeachment, and history will ultimately determine their place among U.S. presidents.

I also find it interesting how The Apprentice, one of Trump’s most popular projects, continues to influence current events. The show’s contestants were often more focused on sucking up to Trump than on actual qualifications. The selection process was based on who could please him the most, not on skill or experience. This mirrors the current administration, where loyalty often takes precedence over competence.

Many of Trump’s cabinet members lack the expertise needed for their roles, much like the contestants on The Apprentice. If you present Trump with employment numbers he dislikes, you might hear the infamous words, “You’re fired!” This dynamic was on full display when Trump questioned Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell live on television. It felt like a re-run of The Apprentice, but it backfired spectacularly.

From The Godfather to The Apprentice and the disgraced Nixon, there’s a recurring theme of power, manipulation, and moral compromise. As we reflect on these moments, it’s clear that the past continues to shape the present in ways we may not fully understand. Whether we’re looking at politics, entertainment, or the broader social landscape, the echoes of these figures and stories remain strong.