The David Pakman Show 9/19/25: Divisions grow and everything becomes a conspiracy
Sep 19, 2025
Sarah Matthews, former Deputy Press Secretary during the Trump administration, joins to discuss the growing divisions in America. She highlights how some view change as a threat while others see it as belonging. They delve into the dangerous spread of conspiracy theories, including reactions to events like the Charlie Kirk shooting. Matthews critiques political figures like JD Vance and Marjorie Taylor Greene for their undermining rhetoric and discusses the media’s role in free speech challenges. An insightful analysis laced with current political commentary!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Belonging Versus Threat Explains Polarization
- The primary political divide is framed as belonging versus threat rather than race, class, or religion.
- Viewing issues through belonging/threat neatly explains positions on immigration, guns, abortion, and more.
Conspiracies Destroy Public Trust
- Conspiracy influencers immediately frame shocking events as staged to erode trust in evidence.
- When everything is labeled fake, public debate collapses and authoritarians can simply ask for trust.
Verify Before Amplifying Shocking Claims
- Check the source, corroboration, and whether claims are falsifiable before sharing.
- Prioritize court documents and independent reporting over influencer speculation.