Americano Victor Davis Hanson on left-wing rage, Musk’s grudge, & America’s identity crisis
Jul 1, 2025
Victor Davis Hanson, a classicist and historian noted for his work on American politics, joins to dissect the political ramifications of Zoran Mamdani’s surprising candidacy win. He dives into the evolving dynamics of the Democratic Party, exploring rising class tensions and the implications of ranked voting. The conversation shifts to the contradictions within leftist academia, highlighting figures who critique systems that elevated them. Hanson also examines Trump's complex economic policies and their effects on international relations, questioning the future of third-party politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mamdani's Appeal and Contradictions
- Zoran Mamdani's win reflects frustrations with a directionless Democratic Party and appeals to a mix of affluent leftists and subsidized poor.
- His incoherent, neo-socialist rhetoric contrasts with his privileged background, causing distrust among traditional working-class voters.
Mamdani's Elite Radicalism
- Mamdani embodies the paradox of elite leftist radicals educated in privileged institutions criticizing meritocracy.
- His charismatic style appeals to progressive urban professionals who long for an Obama-like figure despite policy contradictions.
Mamdani's Support Base Divides
- Mamdani's support divides into wealthy indifferent elites, subsidized poor expecting freebies, and educated metrosexuals feeling underpaid.
- He fails to connect with working-class whites and minorities who view him as privileged and hypocritical.
