The DSR Network Words Matter: From Arby’s to Subway - a Week in Review
Aug 14, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Norm Ornstein, a prominent political scientist known for his insights into American politics, joins host David Rothkopf. They dive deep into the politically charged deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., questioning the motivations behind it. The duo compares the treatment of a Subway protester to those from January 6th and explores the bizarre saga involving Laura Loomer and Arby’s. With a blend of absurdity and seriousness, they tackle rising authoritarianism while sprinkling in humor from the quirks of current events.
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Troop Deployments Are Political Theater
- Norm Ornstein argues the federal troop deployments are performative and politically motivated rather than for real public safety.
- He warns the deployments disrupt Guardspeople's lives and place untrained personnel into policing roles with dangerous consequences.
Sandwich Protest Highlighting Double Standards
- David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein joke about a protester wielding a Subway sandwich to highlight absurdity in responses to unrest.
- They use the sandwich gag to contrast how January 6 attackers were treated versus minor protesters now.
Pundit Normalization Enables Authoritarian Precedents
- David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein say pundits normalize authoritarian moves by treating them as political strategy rather than constitutional violations.
- They warn that normalizing troop uses and federal overreach sets precedents enabling martial law and election interference later.