Political commentator Josh Kraushaar joins Charlie Sykes to discuss the alarming support for Hamas within a segment of the left, rise of extremism and anti-Semitism, lack of visceral reaction to Hamas atrocities, censure of Rashida Tlaib, divide in the Republican Party, and criticism of public figure's past comments and tribalization.
There is a significant increase in anti-Israel sentiment among younger demographics on the left, with extremist views being celebrated on college campuses.
Universities and social media platforms like TikTok play a role in normalizing and propagating extremist views on Israel, creating a dangerous environment for radical ideologies to flourish among young people.
Deep dives
The Rise of Extremism on the Left
There is a growing problem within the left, particularly among younger demographics, of individuals rationalizing and minimizing the actions of Hamas and exhibiting anti-Israel sentiment. This problem is not limited to a few fringe figures, but is widespread on college campuses, with student groups openly celebrating the massacre of Jews. Anti-Semitic incidents have surged, with a 388% increase since October 7th. Universities, previously seen as hotbeds of radicalism, are now fostering extreme ideologies and anti-Israel sentiment. The rise of social media platforms like TikTok has further fueled the spread of extremist views, with the platform becoming a major news source for younger Americans. There is a concerning gap between older progressives who support Israel and the younger demographic, especially among 18-24 year-olds, where support for Hamas and a negative view of Israel is growing.
The Callousness and Depravity of Extremist Views
The extremist views expressed on college campuses, where students celebrate the worst atrocities committed by Hamas and rip down posters seeking attention for kidnapped Israeli civilians, highlights a shocking level of callousness and depravity. Extremist activists view themselves as revolutionaries, rationalizing violence and atrocities as necessary for their cause. This behavior is driven by ideologies promoted on campuses, where being anti-Israel is bundled with social justice causes. Social media platforms like TikTok further propagate these extremist views, becoming the main source of news for younger demographics. The combination of radical ideologies and unchecked social media consumption has created a dangerous environment on college campuses.
The Failure of Universities and the Impact of Social Media
Universities have played a role in normalizing extremist views, with professors and administrators failing to condemn Hamas or show moral clarity about acts of terrorism. Radical ideologies are propagated, with being anti-Israel becoming a prerequisite for being a true progressive. The teaching of critical race theory and other extreme ideologies has contributed to this shift. Additionally, the prominence of social media, particularly TikTok, has amplified these radical views among young people. TikTok has become a primary source of news for 18-24 year-olds, exposing them to anti-Israel propaganda and misinformation. The combination of university influence and social media consumption has contributed to the rise of extremism on the left.
The Challenges Faced by Speaker Mike Johnson
Mike Johnson, the newly elected Speaker of the House for the Republicans, faces significant challenges within his party. The Republican Party is divided between the MAGA wing and more traditional conservatives, creating ideological rifts that will not be easy to overcome. Johnson's support from the MAGA wing could give him some running room, but there is still a risk of facing the same dysfunction that plagued the party during the leadership vacancy. Additionally, issues surrounding Ukraine and Israel pose potential breaking points within the Republican Party, as members confront the divisive question of whether to fund both or prioritize one over the other. Striking a balanced approach and navigating these challenges will be key for Johnson's leadership.
The vast majority of Democrats support Israel, but a very loud, younger segment on the left is lending its support to the terrorist group Hamas—with marches on university campuses, extremist slogans, and outright hatred toward Jews. Josh Kraushaar joins Charlie Sykes for the weekend pod.
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