In a special series leading up to Election Day, “The Daily” will explore what a second Trump presidency would look like, and what it could mean for American democracy.

Since he began his latest campaign, former President Donald J. Trump’s message has changed, becoming darker, angrier and more focused on those out to get him than it ever was before.

Charles Homans, who covers national politics for The Times, has been studying the evolution of Mr. Trump’s message, and what exactly it means to his supporters and for the country.

Guest: Charles Homans, who covers national politics for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• No major American presidential candidate has talked as Mr. Trump now does at his rallies — not Richard Nixon, not George Wallace, not even Mr. Trump himself.
• The first night of the Republican National Convention sought to strike a new note. But some of the lyrics were familiar.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.