"This is an industry where -- there's some people who help each other out -- for the most part, when a guy gets a job, usually somebody else has to lose it. That's usually how that works."
Additionally, the company gave the election machine firm 2,000 shares of preferred stock as part of the settlement in advance of the IPO for Newsmax expected later this year.
"People have received me well, and I'm humbled by that. I have no idea why they would find me to be compelling and interesting to stick around, but I am really appreciative of that."
Douthat’s opinion-writing background, which I once viewed as a liability, actually helped him here. He thinks about big questions for a living. Therefore, he knew where to push Trump beyond the usual talking points.
"I get to talk about sports on a daily basis. I haven't lost the fandom for these teams. This is what I want to do, be as successful as possible. And do it for as long as I possibly can."