Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words RealClear Politics' Fight for Free Speech with David DesRosiers | Victor Davis Hanson
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Jan 15, 2026 David DesRosiers, president of the RealClearFoundation and publisher of RealClear Politics, dives into the importance of viewpoint diversity in today's media landscape. He discusses the challenges RealClear faces, including advertising blacklists due to its open stance. DesRosiers also unveils the Samizdat Prize, which honors those courageously upholding free speech. With insights on restoring open discourse and addressing current media bias, he highlights notable recipients of the prize and their impact on free expression.
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Viewpoint Diversity As Civic Method
- RealClear curates rival, reputable viewpoints on the same topics to force readers out of partisan echo chambers.
- David DesRosiers argues this viewpoint diversity restores a civic ‘scientific method’ for resolving public disputes.
Polling Average As A Stabilizer
- The RealClear polling average constrains extreme polling claims and remains broadly predictive of election outcomes.
- DesRosiers says the average keeps polling within guardrails and prevents polls from creating manufactured political climates.
Advertisers Used To Silence Dissent
- RealClear has been placed on advertiser 'do not buy' lists because it presents perspectives advertisers dislike.
- DesRosiers recounts advertising-starvation as a de facto punishment for showing conservative or contrarian views.
