Alyson and Breht discuss fallout from the Presidential Debate, internal party struggles, and Israeli society's divisions. They touch on Biden's health concerns, resistance to populism, dangers of fascism in the U.S., and Netanyahu's preference for Trump over Biden in Israeli politics.
Growing panic among Democratic elites regarding Biden's cognitive decline and calls for his resignation reflect party's internal divisions
Challenges in realigning political landscape highlighted by exclusion of third party candidates from mainstream debates
Rising authoritarian tendencies in American society underscore the need for bottom-up struggles against fascism and militarization
Deep dives
Debate Fallout and Democratic Party Discord
The fallout from the recent debate has intensified the divisions within the Democratic Party, revealing concerns about Biden's incoherence and weak performance. Calls for Biden to step down due to his cognitive decline have escalated within the party, reflecting a growing panic among Democratic elites. The lack of a clear alternative candidate and the party's focus on centrist figures like Kamala Harris or Buttigieg signify a struggle within the party to navigate the current crisis and potential realignment.
Third Party Dismissal and Realignment Challenges
The discussion on third parties, like RFK Jr.'s potential candidacy, highlights the significant challenges faced in realigning the political landscape. The exclusion of third party candidates from mainstream debates underscores the bipartisan effort to maintain the two-party system. Despite discontent with both major parties among the populace, the institutional constraints and corporate influence pose obstacles to any substantial realignment efforts.
Growing Social Divisions and Fascism Concerns
The widening social divisions and economic disparities in American society raise concerns about the emergence of more authoritarian and militarized tendencies. The current foundations being laid, such as criminalizing homelessness and escalating incarceration rates, point towards a potential shift towards a more oppressive state system. While some view fascism as inherent in the American system, the growing trends towards militarization and violence underscore the need for bottom-up struggles and mass movements to combat authoritarian threats and strive for a more equitable future.
Democratic Party's Role in Shift Towards Fascism
The discussion delves into the Democratic Party's responsibility for the rise of fascism, emphasizing how their neoliberal centrism makes the fascist project appealing. The refusal to shift leftward and the demonization of the left by Democrats are highlighted as major contributors to the potential emergence of fascism.
Internal Contradictions in Israeli Society
The podcast explores internal contradictions in Israeli society, focusing on the conflict between military rationalists and settler factions. Issues such as Hezbollah attacks on settlements and the potential for a broader regional war are discussed, shedding light on the complex dynamics within Israeli politics and the impact on ongoing war mongering.
Alyson and Breht reflect on the pathetic Presidential Debate, analyze the fallout from the debate, and then reflect on some major internal divisions within both American and Israeli societies.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
