The Dispatch Podcast Corrupting Influences | Roundtable
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Dec 5, 2025 
David French, a sharp legal mind and conservative commentator, joins forces with Jonah Goldberg, a political analyst known for his insightful takes, and Kevin Williamson, a seasoned writer focusing on law and culture. They delve into the controversial 'double tap' airstrike order and its potential violations of war laws. Discussions take a critical turn towards the rhetoric in conservative media, including Megyn Kelly's provocative statements. The trio also examines the complex issues surrounding pardons, warning of their risks and historical abuses that could undermine institutional integrity.
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Double-Tap Strikes Raise War-Law Concerns
- The September Caribbean strikes raised serious legal red flags about double-tap attacks and targeting shipwrecked survivors.
- David French highlights the DoD law of war manual explicitly forbids orders to destroy shipwrecked individuals.
Second-Strike Justification Requires Evidence
- A lawful second strike requires clear evidence the vessel remained a combatant and could continue its mission.
- David French says video and provenance will be critical to justify the administration's changing explanations.
War Rhetoric As Political Pretext
- Administration messaging often uses pretextual arguments tailored for political audiences, not factual clarity.
- Jonah Goldberg argues the 'war' language is used for authority while avoiding real legal consequences.