Paul Krugman Reflects on 25 Years of Declining Trust in Leadership

The Nobel-winning economist ends his New York Times tenure with a critique of eroded optimism and a call for accountability.

Paul Krugman has retired as a New York Times columnist after nearly 25 years, reflecting on the shift from optimism in 2000 to widespread anger and distrust today.
Krugman attributes much of this transformation to a collapse of public trust in elites, including political leaders, financial institutions, and tech billionaires.
He highlights key moments such as the Iraq War, the 2008 financial crisis, and the European debt crisis as turning points in eroding faith in leadership.
Krugman criticizes the rise of resentment among billionaires, who he argues are frustrated by diminished public admiration despite their wealth.
While acknowledging the grim state of current affairs, he expresses hope that public accountability and truthful leadership could pave the way to a better future.