BREAKING: Kamala Picks Radical Walz as VP, and Value of Free Speech, with Justice Neil Gorsuch, Rich Lowry, and Batya Ungar-Sargon | Ep. 856
Aug 6, 2024
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Rich Lowry, a leading voice at National Review, and Batya Ungar-Sargon, author of 'Second Class,' dive into Kamala Harris's controversial pick of Tim Walz as VP. They discuss the implications of his military record, progressive policies, and how the choice might shape the 2024 election. Then, Justice Neil Gorsuch offers insights on Supreme Court dynamics and the increasing challenges of modern legislation, stressing the vital role of free speech amid today's political climate. The conversation is a deep exploration of integrity, image, and governance.
Kamala Harris's selection of Tim Walz as her VP reflects the Democratic Party's shift towards more radical left policies, potentially alienating moderate voters.
Concerns surrounding Walz's military service record and progressive policies signal significant challenges for his appeal in the upcoming 2024 election.
Justice Neil Gorsuch emphasizes the critical role of free speech and the dangers of government overreach in modern American law and society.
Deep dives
Kamala Harris's VP Selection
Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the 2024 presidential election, a decision that left some political analysts surprised, as many believed a more moderate choice, such as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, would be favorable. Harris's choice raises eyebrows not only due to Walz's radical political stances but also because of the growing anti-Semitism within the Democratic Party. Some commentators suggest Harris may have avoided choosing Shapiro due to his strong Jewish identity, which may not fit the progressive narrative of the party. The decision reflects a significant shift in the party's alignment, as it increasingly embraces far-left ideologies, exemplified by leaders like Ilhan Omar.
Walz's Controversial Policies
Governor Walz is associated with a range of progressive policies, such as giving driver's licenses and free tuition to undocumented immigrants, raising concerns about taxpayer burdens and the prioritization of illegal immigrants over citizens. His support for radical gender identity policies, including allowing minors to undergo life-altering surgeries without parental consent, has further polarized opinions about him. Critics argue that these policies are indicative of a growing radicalization within the Democratic Party that aligns with the ideals of their left-wing base, rather than appealing to a moderate or independent electorate. This could pose significant challenges for his viability as a national candidate, particularly in a competitive election climate.
Accusations Against Walz's Military Service
A significant controversy surrounding Walz is related to accusations of misleading voters about his military service record, specifically that he dodged deployment during the Iraq War. Critics claim he exaggerated his service details for political advantage, leading to claims of 'stolen valor.' These allegations could severely damage his public image as he faces scrutiny in the upcoming election. The potential fallout from these accusations is substantial, especially considering the respect military service holds among American voters, particularly in a national election context.
The Impact of Radical Left Policies
The choice of Walz as a running mate for Harris is seen as a reflection of the Democratic Party’s ongoing embrace of radical left policies, which some argue alienates moderate and traditional Democratic voters. His stances signal a continued trend within the party to cater increasingly to its progressive base, sidelining more centrist voices. This shift is troubling for some who fear it could lead to an electoral backlash, as moderate voters may feel disenfranchised by the party’s leftward drift. The implications for the party's strategy heading into the election are significant, raising questions about its ability to secure critical swing states.
JD Vance as a Political Foe
Walz's upcoming political battles against JD Vance, who is recognized for his military service and staunch conservative views, are expected to highlight sharp contrasts in values and governance. Vance's campaign is anticipated to leverage Walz's controversial policies and military service accusations to paint him as out of touch with mainstream Americans. Vance's approach, which focuses on patriotic themes and traditional values, aims to connect with voters who may be disillusioned with the current administration's policies. The personal dynamics of their debates could play a crucial role in shaping voter perceptions as the election approaches.
Wider Themes of Government Overreach
The broader discussion within the podcast centers on concerns of government overreach and the implications of increasingly radical policies being enacted at various levels of government. The current political climate is characterized by fears that agencies and officials are wielding excessive power, leading to a bending of laws and regulations that unintentionally harms everyday citizens. Examples cited include stringent regulations that disproportionately affect small businesses and ordinary Americans, which contribute to rising dissatisfaction with government effectiveness. These concerns echo throughout the political landscape, raising critical questions about accountability and the balance of power in a democratic society.
Megyn Kelly is joined by National Review's Rich Lowry and Batya Ungar-Sargon, author of "Second Class," to discuss Kamala's pick of MN Gov. Tim Walz as her VP, why she didn't pick PA Gov. Josh Shapiro, how Shapiro's Jewish heritage was a factor, the rumblings about Shapiro's political ambition, the controversy over Harris' VP pick Gov. Tim Walz's military record, why the issue could become a major factor in the 2024 election, JD Vance's military service, Walz' radical progressive policies, his lack of action during the Minneapolis BLM riots, his extreme support of COVID lockdowns, and more. Then Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, author of "Over Ruled," joins to discuss what he and his Supreme Court colleagues really talk about behind closed doors, the decorum and friendship they share, how modern law-making contradicts the founders' vision, specific ways too many laws make it harder for Americans to live their lives, some of the craziest overreaching laws in America, how important free speech is in America, the importance of disagreement and discussion, the increased rhetoric about the Supreme Court justices that led to protests outside his house, what he thought when he saw the assassination attempt of Trump, the importance of faith for him personally but not professionally, and more.