Recode Decode: General Michael Hayden on Donald Trump’s ‘assault on intelligence’

Post-Truth

Kara Swisher and General Michael Hayden explore the rise of the post-truth phenomenon, where emotions and beliefs overshadow objective facts. Hayden argues that President Trump is not the cause but a symptom of this trend, exploiting a societal shift towards decision-making based on feelings and tribal loyalty rather than data and evidence 1. This shift is not confined to the U.S. but is seen globally, fueled by rapid technological changes and information overload 1.

The proximate cause was what the president was saying and doing. But, you know, you can't get two or three thoughts into that without realizing that President Trump is effect, not cause.

--- General Michael Hayden

Hayden highlights the unprecedented dynamics where American institutions are holding their ground against executive overreach, despite the lack of congressional checks 2.

   

Belief vs. Evidence

In the current political climate, beliefs often override evidence, leading to decisions based on instinct rather than facts. General Michael Hayden shares an anecdote about a conversation in Pittsburgh, where many believed in the unfounded claim that Barack Obama wiretapped Trump Tower, illustrating how popular opinion can overshadow factual evidence 3. This trend is evident in policy decisions, such as the refugee ban, which was based on a narrative rather than data, posing dangers by reinforcing extremist narratives 4.

The president has a near preternatural confidence in his own instincts. And, you know, and he freely admits he doesn't read and he doesn't have patience for briefings.

--- General Michael Hayden

Hayden notes that President Trump's decision-making often contradicts intelligence briefings, relying instead on instinctual responses 5.

   

Trust in Intelligence

Trust in intelligence is crucial for national security, yet it is increasingly undermined in a post-truth environment. General Michael Hayden emphasizes the importance of pursuing objective reality, acknowledging that intelligence is an imperfect but necessary endeavor 6. Despite past errors, such as the Iraq WMD assessment, intelligence aims to provide a factual basis for policy decisions 6.

My life experience is these are highly talented, professional, dedicated Americans working under the rule of law to do the best possible job they can.

--- General Michael Hayden

However, the effectiveness of intelligence is often contingent on the willingness of policymakers to engage with it, which varies with each administration 7. Hayden points out that while intelligence agencies strive to remain relevant to policymakers, the current political climate has politicized their work, complicating their role 8.