The MeidasTouch Podcast

Biden’s Grace vs. Trump’s Disgrace with Beto O’Rourke and Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Jan 22, 2021

Beto O'Rourke, a former Congressman and advocate for voter engagement in Texas, discusses his organization's impact and critiques Ted Cruz. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian and author, shares insights on the dangers of authoritarianism and parallels between Trump and historical strongmen. They delve into the absurdities of QAnon, the significance of peaceful protests for democracy, and the importance of combating misinformation in today's political climate. Their conversations highlight hope amidst challenges and the necessity for accountability in leadership.

01:33:49

Creator website

Episode guests

Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Beto O'Rourke

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

A New Dawn: Reflections on Inauguration Day

11min

Political Responses and Trump's Legacy

13min

Reflections on Hope and Democracy

21min

Humor and Serious Inquiries in the Face of Misinformation

2min

Defending Democracy: Combating Disinformation

5min

Fashion Choices and Conspiracy Theories: A Discussion of Trump's Aftermath

2min

The Absurdities of QAnon and Political Disillusionment

12min

Trump and Authoritarian Parallels

10min

10.

Navigating Political Landscape: Hope and Concerns in American Democracy

2min

11.

Media Landscape Shifts: Trump to Biden

7min

It's a big day! The Meidas Brothers celebrate the inauguration of President Joe Biden and try to make sense of the sudden return to normalcy, as he who shall not be named leaves in utter disgrace. The brothers discuss highlights the Inauguration, including the breathtaking speech by Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. Former Congressman, Senate and Presidential Candidate, and founder of Powered by People Beto O'Rourke then joins the pod to discuss the work of his organization in Texas, the horrible human known as Ted Cruz, and the enduring legacy of the peaceful protests of Colin Kaepernick. The brothers then discuss the shattered reality of QAnon supporters before having a fascinating conversation with professor of history and Italian studies at New York University and Author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Ruth Ben-Ghiat. The brothers finish the show by showing more examples of the return to normalcy, including Thursday's press briefing with Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Learn more about Beto O'Rourke's organization Powered by People here: https://poweredxpeople.org/

Buy Ruth Ben-Ghiat's book here: https://wwnorton.com/books/strongmen

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