Media

Chuck Todd: The 2010s ‘probably the worst decade in American politics’ in our lifetimes

by Joe Concha - 12/18/19 4:19 PM ET

NBC’s Chuck Todd said the past decade has “probably been the worst decade in American politics, certainly in our lifetimes” on Wednesday while noting how “unremarkable” the day felt ahead of President Trump’s likely impeachment in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives.

The remarks come as the Democratic-controlled House debates impeaching President Trump. The vote later Wednesday is expected to be almost exclusively along party lines. The two articles of impeachment include abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

“I was struck both just last night and this morning how unremarkable today has suddenly felt, suddenly feels,” Todd began. “And I say that because it is remarkable what’s happening — it is historic, what’s happening.”

“Basically, this has probably been the worst decade in American politics, certainly in our lifetimes,” the “Meet the Press” moderator continued. “Maybe the ’50s and ’60s had periods like this, but a sustained decade of decline.”

“Our politics has so declined, starting in 2010, to where we are today, and in some ways this is a fitting end to what has been this sort of toxic decade for American politics,” Todd later concluded.

“It is a sad commentary, Chuck. Thanks very much,” replied “NBC Nightly News” anchor Lester Holt in ending the segment.

House Democrats are bringing impeachment to a vote on Wednesday after months of congressional investigations into Trump’s dealings with Ukraine.

The president will be in Battle Creek, Mich., for a campaign rally as impeachment votes wrap up.

Tags Chuck Todd Donald Trump