When MAGA comes between families in the US - The Straits Times

In this episode, US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with two special guests who have seen how the Make America Great Again movement has produced strains in personal relationships and divided families.

Synopsis: Once every month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and geopolitical talking points.

On Nov 3, the US held its midterm elections. The Democrats won back control of both houses of Congress, dealing a crushing defeat to MAGA. But for Americans experiencing strains in relationships with MAGA family members, it’s not so easy to turn the page.

In this episode, US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar chats with two special guests. They have come up close with President Donald Trump’s famous political movement, Make America Great Again (MAGA) and have mixed feelings.

Julianna Forlano is a clinical psychotherapist based in Philadelphia. Since September 2025, she has been leading a support group for people across America whose close relationships have been disrupted by MAGA. She holds a master’s degree in social work and is an adjunct professor in the Department of Communications at Montclair State University.

Brian Post is a retired corporate employee living in Appleton, Wisconsin. He shares how hard he has tried to make peace after seeing his family torn apart by MAGA. 

22:00 What is a circle of moral concern?

39:00 Will Brian celebrate Thanksgiving with family?

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Host: Bhagyashree Garekar (bhagya@sph.com.sg) 

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