Dems Try To Storm Building, CNN Panel Melts Down, and Rise of "Tech Right," with Victor Davis Hanson and Mike Solana | Ep. 1003
Feb 7, 2025
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Victor Davis Hanson, a renowned military historian and commentator, joins tech entrepreneur Mike Solana to tackle hot-button issues. They discuss the Democrats' frantic reactions to federal cuts, highlighting the double standards in political outrage. The conversation shifts to media chaos over Elon Musk's moves and rising 'tech right' sentiments among younger conservatives. The duo critiques the evolving narrative around transgender athletes and cultural contradictions in modern feminism, underscoring a notable shift in societal norms and political discourse.
The podcast highlights the disconnect between the Democratic Party's current initiatives and mainstream voter concerns, particularly regarding government spending and immigration.
Victor Davis Hanson critiques the performative outrage from the left, illustrating a cultural fatigue among Americans over such theatrics.
The emergence of the 'Tech Right' indicates a significant shift in political leanings among tech leaders towards individualism and free speech advocacy.
Recent Super Bowl ads reflect a cultural shift back to traditional comedic values and unapologetic portrayals of masculinity, resonating with a younger audience.
Deep dives
Iconic Food Delivery through Gold Belly
Gold Belly is a popular online platform that allows customers to order and receive iconic foods from renowned restaurants across the United States, shipping them directly to their doors. This service is especially appealing for hosting events, such as the Super Bowl, offering fans a chance to enjoy famous dishes like Philly cheesesteaks or Kansas City barbecue from the comfort of their homes. Customers can take advantage of promotions, including discounts on their first orders, making it an attractive option for food lovers nationwide. The concept merges the excitement of famous culinary experiences with the convenience of modern delivery services.
Megan Kelly's First Super Bowl Experience
Megan Kelly shares her enthusiasm about attending her first Super Bowl, invited by the CEO of YouTube. She expresses excitement about the event, discussing her anticipation of the game weekend atmosphere and the unique experiences that await her. The discussion highlights the cultural significance of the Super Bowl and how it serves as a platform for social commentary through commercials and celebrity appearances. Kelly also mentions that she will provide a behind-the-scenes recap for her audience upon her return.
Free Speech and Big Tech Concerns
The guest, Megan Kelly, addresses her concerns about free speech on platforms like YouTube, particularly regarding content on controversial topics such as transgender issues. She emphasizes the importance of discussing sensitive subjects openly and critiques the potential demonetization of content that challenges prevailing narratives. During her meeting with the YouTube CEO, she raises specific points about the company's policies and expresses hope for positive changes in the landscape of online discourse. Kelly’s candidness reflects a broader desire for more freedom in speech across tech platforms.
Democratic Party Internal Struggles
The conversation shifts to the struggles within the Democratic Party as they deal with financial cuts and internal disputes over positions and policies. The mention of protests related to federal job cuts illustrates the contentious atmosphere and the growing frustration among party members. There is a notable discussion about the apparent disconnect between party leadership and the electorate's sentiments, focusing on issues such as immigration and governmental efficiency. Critics highlight an emerging conflict between the party's traditional base and the new progressive movements.
Victor Davis Hanson on Political Realities
Victor Davis Hanson brings a critical perspective on the current political climate, particularly concerning the Democratic Party's declining approval ratings. He notes that many of the party's initiatives are out of touch with mainstream voters, particularly regarding immigration and government spending. Hanson emphasizes the importance of returning to meritocratic values and the political ramifications of failing to address economic and social issues. He argues that the party’s internal conflict and inability to adapt may lead to its further decline in future elections.
Cultural Changes in Comedy and Advertising
There is an ongoing discussion regarding a return to traditional values in comedy and advertising, as exemplified by recent Super Bowl ads. The preference for more unapologetic expressions of masculinity and humor reflects a cultural shift away from politically correct narratives. Advertisements featuring attractive influences and classic humor demonstrate this new direction, signifying an acceptance of a more authentic portrayal of gender dynamics. This shift is viewed as liberating, as many individuals, particularly young men, feel empowered to embrace their identities without fear of backlash.
Understanding the Tech Right
The emergence of the 'Tech Right' is underscored as a significant cultural development, suggesting a shift in political affiliations among tech industry leaders and influencers. This term encapsulates a growing faction that prioritizes free speech, individualism, and business-friendly policies within the tech landscape. Conversations surrounding the impacts of prominent figures like Peter Thiel and Elon Musk highlight the importance of their influence in shaping a more right-leaning tech culture that counters traditional liberal narratives. As a result, many young tech professionals are now openly embracing their conservative or libertarian views, signaling a shift in the political dynamic in the industry.
The Future of American Politics and Culture
Looking ahead, the discussion emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the political landscape and how individuals will navigate economic populism versus traditional Republican values. The burgeoning understanding of what it means to be a conservative in a rapidly changing cultural environment is at the forefront of many conversations. Acknowledging the growing backlash against wokeness and identity politics, there is a hope that the upcoming years will invite a re-evaluation of societal values among both the political elite and the average American. Ultimately, the perspective is rooted in the belief that clarity in purpose and identity will lead to a more cohesive and effective political and cultural environment.
Megyn Kelly is joined by Victor Davis Hanson, author of "The End of Everything," to discuss Maxine Waters and other Democratic politicians trying to storm the Department of Education, the left's outrage over bureaucratic cuts more than other cultural issues, why Americans are sick of the performative outrage, the left’s latest attempt at defiance of Trump’s executive orders, the stunning speed of the NCAA complying with Trump’s executive order banning men from competing in women’s sports, the latest terrible race-obsessed panel of yelling on CNN, one black female pundit claiming she's the most qualified but least paid there, Jasmine Crockett’s racism on CNN mocking white men, Vogue trashing Melania’s stunning First Lady portrait, Vogue calling Bianca Censori “empowering” for showing up nude to the Grammys, the contradictions in modern feminism, the cultural shift we're seeing with the new Super Bowl ads, Carl’s Jr. back to sexy women in their commercials after eight years away, Bud Light's new ad with the formerly-canceled Shane Gillis, and more. Then Mike Solana, editor of "Pirate Wires," joins to discuss the absurdity of the media’s latest meltdown over Elon Musk’s team helping to cut out government waste, the freakout over one young engineer nicknamed "Big Balls," the dishonesty of the Wired reporting around Musk and Kara Swisher's false punditry, the rise of the “tech right," how Elon influenced this shift, Mark Zuckerberg speaking out now but late to the party, the rise and fall of the left’s war on masculinity, and more.
