Dem Party Imploding, Michelle Obama's Failing Podcast, and Debating Khalil Deportation, with Glenn Greenwald | Ep. 1028
Mar 17, 2025
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Glenn Greenwald, an influential journalist and host of 'System Update,' joins to dissect the Democratic Party's nosedive in approval ratings and their identity crisis post-Trump. He critiques Senator Chris Murphy’s awkward attempts at social media stardom and shares insights on Michelle Obama's struggling podcast, revealing her discontent as First Lady. They also delve into the complexities of Mahmoud Khalil's potential deportation and the media's late acknowledgment of the COVID lab leak theory, highlighting systemic failures and shifting narratives.
The Democratic Party faces a significant leadership crisis, with approval ratings plummeting to record lows of 29%, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among its base.
Michelle Obama's podcast struggles to attract an audience, revealing her discontent as First Lady and highlighting her criticism of Barack's political ambitions.
Debate around Mahmoud Khalil's potential deportation underscores tensions surrounding his controversial role as a spokesperson for the Columbia group.
Recent acknowledgment of the COVID lab leak theory by major media raises questions about their accountability in shaping misinformation during the pandemic.
Deep dives
Rising Tensions Within the Democratic Party
Growing tensions are evident within the Democratic Party, particularly surrounding the leadership of Chuck Schumer. Recent polls reveal a significant decline in support for the party, falling to a record low of 29%, indicating dissatisfaction among its base. This discontent is fueled by perceptions that the party is not fighting hard enough against Republican ideologies or the Trump administration. As frustrations mount, there are discussions on possibly replacing Schumer, highlighting a potential civil war within the party as factions vie for a more assertive leadership approach.
Public Opinion on Democratic Leadership
Polls demonstrate deep divisions regarding who best represents the values of the Democratic Party, with 30% of respondents not identifying any leader. AOC and Kamala Harris are among those receiving minimal support, illustrating a disconnect between elected officials and party supporters. Additionally, Barack Obama, once a figure of strong allegiance, now ties with lesser-known figures, questioning the current leadership's effectiveness. This lack of clear representation reflects a crisis within the party, as constituents seek leaders who resonate with their values and aspirations.
Rules of Engagement and Fighting Trump
Republican strategies during the Obama administration serve as a comparison to current Democratic frustrations, with a clear shift in public expectations towards aggressive opposition rather than bipartisan compromise. The once predominant sentiment favoring collaboration has waned, with 65% of Democrats now advocating for uncompromising stances against the GOP. This evolution indicates a desperate need for strong, unyielding leadership within the party as constituents demand action against perceived threats. The growing call for conflict suggests a shift towards a more combative political strategy in response to past disappointments.
Critique of Kamala Harris's Leadership
Kamala Harris's leadership and effectiveness during her campaign and subsequent tenure have come under heavy scrutiny. Critics argue that her lack of clarity around personal beliefs and values has hindered her political identity, leaving many voters confused about her convictions. Unlike Trump, who is perceived as transparent in his beliefs, Harris has struggled to communicate a clear agenda, leaving her leadership questioned. Meanwhile, as challenges escalate, there is pressure on Harris to offer substantive solutions rather than vague platitudes that fail to resonate with a restless Democratic base.
The Role of Media in Political Discourse
The media's critical role in shaping political narratives has become increasingly contentious, particularly in relation to coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and its origins. Recent acknowledgment from prominent outlets about their previous dismissal of the lab leak theory reflects a significant shift in public discourse. However, many critics contend that these media outlets, which maligned dissenting voices, should also take accountability for their role in shaping misinformation. This tension signals a broader conversation about media credibility and the responsibilities of journalists to present objective realities rather than partisan narratives.
Shifts in Public Health Messaging
The evolving public health messaging surrounding COVID-19 and its origins highlights a significant disconnect between official narratives and public perception. Initial support for ideas denying the lab leak theory has faced backlash as new evidence surfaces, prompting calls for more transparent health communication. The apparent motivations of certain health officials and publications raise questions about the integrity of the information being disseminated during critical moments. As history unfolds, the need for trust and accountability in public health messaging becomes paramount, especially as circumstances continue to change.
Overlooked Voices in the Public Health Debate
The emergence of contrasting voices in public health discourse, especially among those advocating against established narratives, illustrates a growing divergence in opinions and beliefs. Figures like RFK Jr. are gaining traction as public sentiment shifts towards skepticism of established authorities, particularly in regard to the pandemic response. This shift indicates a larger trend where long-standing institutions must grapple with dissenting opinions that challenge conventional wisdom. The rise of alternative voices emphasizes the need for open discussion on public health matters and encourages critical thinking among the population.
Megyn Kelly is joined by Glenn Greenwald, host of Rumble's "System Update," to discuss the Democratic party's plummeting approval ratings in recent polls, how their opposition to Trump has shaped their identity, their lack of unifying vision or agenda, Sen. Chris Murphy’s cringe attempt to act like a social media influencer, the sudden shift in his messaging now that he has a millennial Dem operative girlfriend, whether he's actually the future of the party, Michelle Obama’s new podcast failing to gain an audience so far, her revelation that she hated being First Lady and she didn't want Barack to run for president, her complaints about Barack throughout the first two episodes, the legality surrounding the potential deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, his role as a "spokesperson" for the Columbia group, whether it matters if he supports Hamas, the New York Times finally telling the truth about the COVID lab leak theory in a column, how it's five years too late, and more. Plus Megyn shows how the Megyn Kelly Show revealed the truth about the origin of COVID back in 2022, the failures of corporate media on this issue, and more.
