Episode 4419: Trump Goes After The Elite Institutions; Calls Off Israeli Airstrike
Apr 17, 2025
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Todd Bensman, a Senior National Security Fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies, dives into the intriguing interplay between elite institutions and government policies. He discusses the pressures faced by universities amid funding cuts and the political implications of illegal immigration. Bensman also explores the complex geopolitics of the Middle East, highlighting President Trump's diplomatic strategies versus military actions. Additionally, he reviews recent immigration enforcement proposals and the evolving public sentiment on immigration policies.
The Trump administration's financial deal with El Salvador raises ethical concerns regarding the legal rights of undocumented immigrants and due process.
Public opinion on immigration has shifted towards more aggressive deportation policies, aligning with Trump's approach and boosting his approval ratings.
The trend of undermining higher education institutions highlights a serious threat to academic autonomy and the rule of law within the U.S.
Deep dives
Government Deal with El Salvador
The government of El Salvador has entered into a financial arrangement with the Trump administration, which involves receiving $15 million to house undocumented immigrants who have been denied due process in the U.S. This deal raises concerns as it appears to ignore the legal rights of those involved, particularly in the case of an individual named Kilmar. Critics argue that this arrangement allows El Salvador to detain individuals without committing any crimes, highlighting a troubling disregard for judicial decisions. The ongoing scrutiny of this situation suggests that public pressure may eventually lead to the release of those unfairly detained.
Shifts in Public Opinion on Immigration
Public sentiment regarding immigration has shifted significantly, with a growing majority of Americans now favoring aggressive deportation policies. In 2016, only 38% of voters supported efforts to deport all undocumented immigrants, but by 2025, this figure has risen to 56%. This shift aligns more closely with Donald Trump’s stance on immigration, contributing to an increase in his approval ratings on this issue. As a result, many voters now perceive the country as heading in a positive direction concerning immigration policy.
Attacks on Higher Education Institutions
There is a concerted effort among some political factions to undermine and delegitimize American higher education institutions, particularly those viewed as promoting progressive ideologies. Reports suggest that President Trump has directed the IRS to revoke tax-exempt statuses from institutions like Harvard, particularly after they refused to comply with his demands. This kind of pressure has prompted many universities to begin forming alliances for mutual defense against potential governmental attacks, essentially creating collective agreements to stand against these encroachments. The need for these pacts underscores a worrying trend where certain political ideologies threaten the autonomy of academic institutions.
Disregard for Judicial Authority
The administration has increasingly shown a pattern of ignoring judicial authority and court orders, which is becoming normalized behavior that raises significant constitutional concerns. There are indications that various lawsuits against the administration, including cases backed by organizations traditionally aligned with constitutional principles, are not receiving the necessary attention. The trend reflects a broader problem where Congress may have inadvertently ceded its power due to partisan divisions. This growing disregard for the legal framework could lead to significant ramifications for governance and the rule of law in the United States.
Collective Resistance Against Political Bullying
In the face of political pressure and potential funding cuts, organizations and states are encouraged to band together in collective action rather than conceding to demands. The notion that appeasement will lead to avoidance of further bullying is dismissed, advocating instead for a united front to stand firm against political intimidation. This strategy emphasizes the importance of strength in numbers and the necessity for a proactive approach to safeguarding institutional integrity. The call for solidarity highlights the ongoing struggle between authority and the entities being pressured, advocating for a proactive stance in defending against overreach.
