Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words Victor Davis Hanson: Why I’m Tired of Mitt Romey’s ‘Fake Magnanimity’
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Dec 27, 2025 
Victor Davis Hanson, a distinguished historian and senior contributor to The Daily Signal, discusses the 'fake magnanimity' of wealthy elites like Mitt Romney, who advocate for higher taxes while enjoying unique financial advantages. He critiques rampant federal welfare spending, the migration of affluent taxpayers from high-tax states like California, and the necessity of enforcing immigration laws. Hanson also addresses the persistent threat of Hamas in Israel and argues for the tough measures sometimes needed in urban warfare against embedded militants.
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Empty Towns No Longer, Yet Work Declines
- Victor describes seeing full stores at 10 a.m. in poor towns, suggesting many able-bodied people are not working. He connects local observation to broader critiques of welfare incentives and fraud.
Elite 'Magnanimity' Rings Hollow
- Wealthy public calls for higher taxes are often performative rather than sacrificial. Victor Davis Hanson argues elites can pay more directly or alter their investment behavior instead of moral posturing.
Use Laws To Deter Welfare Dependency
- Enforce existing immigration sponsorship laws to deter dependence on public benefits. Victor Davis Hanson supports HHS clawbacks to restore the law's deterrent effect.
