
The David Frum Show When Conservatism Meant Freedom
33 snips
Oct 15, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Lord Charles Moore, an esteemed British journalist and authorized biographer of Margaret Thatcher, reveals the formidable legacy of Thatcher's leadership. He reflects on her rise as Britain's first female prime minister and her partnership with Reagan that shaped modern conservatism. The conversation dives into her economic reforms, the push for privatization, and her unique stance on nationalism versus libertarianism. Moore shares vital lessons from Thatcher's disciplined approach, highlighting her lasting influence on today’s political landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Shutdowns Are Quasi-Elections Over Rule Of Law
- Government shutdowns function as a quasi-election testing the rule of law, not just budget disputes.
- Who started a shutdown matters less than the political purpose and public sympathy behind it.
Deals Need Enforceability When The Executive Renegs
- Deals with an administration that claims it will ignore appropriations require stricter enforceable mechanisms.
- Law-based constraints matter more when the executive signals it won't honor bargains.
Waiting Months For A Phone Under Nationalization
- Charles Moore recounts waiting months for a landline under British nationalized telecoms in 1979.
- His editor jumped bureaucratic queues by calling the chairman so Moore could get a phone quickly.



