The American Mind Podcast

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is being accused of war crimes after allegedly making a so-called “double-tap” strike against Venezuelan drug traffickers. But it may just be a double distraction, allowing critics of Trump both to avoid more serious questions about immigration policy and to pull attention from the tragic shooting of two National Guards in DC by an Afghani national. This week, the guys are joined again by Matthew Peterson to discuss US operations in South America and the Left’s unsubtle hints that soldiers might need to disobey orders. Plus: Kash Patel as FBI Director: the right man for the wrong job?Recommended:“What Brought the Trump Administration to the Brink with the Venezuelan Regime,” by Joshua Treviño & Melissa FordNever Enough: America’s Limitless Welfare State, by William VoegeliOur American Queen: The Rise and Ruin of Kate Chase, by Thomas Klingenstein This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit claremontinstitute.substack.com

In this lively discussion, Matthew Peterson, a noted political analyst and cultural commentator, joins to dissect a recent meeting between Donald Trump and Zohran Mamdani. They explore Trump's media-savvy strategy to appeal to younger voters, the dynamics within the conservative movement, and the challenges of addressing Antifa's actions post-domestic-terrorist designation. The conversation also covers the complexities of messaging in politics, the role of voters versus influencers, and the awkward state of intra-right factions. Plus, festive reflections and cultural recommendations round out the talk!

Matthew Peterson, a Washington fellow at the Claremont Institute, dives into the current political landscape following a disappointing election for Republicans. He discusses the Trump Administration's struggle for direction and the need for clear messaging to re-energize the MAGA base. The conversation turns to Olivia Nuzzi’s scandalous memoir, revealing a troubling side of media culture. They also explore the challenges facing the administration, such as internal divisions and voter confidence, alongside cultural recommendations ranging from sci-fi literature to films.

Matthew Peterson, a political commentator and journalist, joins the discussion on the ongoing government shutdown and its implications. He argues that the federal budgeting process is failing, necessitating major reforms. The conversation shifts to recent election outcomes, highlighting significant victories that may signal political trends leading up to the midterms. They also delve into the unresolved mystery of the January 6 pipe bombs, examining investigative leads and why the case remains open. Cultural recommendations wrap up this insightful dialogue.

The recent embrace of Nick Fuentes by Tucker Carlson stirs controversy and creates rifts on the Right. The hosts discuss the implications of Fuentes' influence and whether the movement should engage with rather than silence extremist views. They explore the alarming details of Operation Arctic Frost, an FBI probe targeting GOP communications. The show's debate also touches on the rising anti-Semitism in America and the importance of dismantling bureaucratic power to prevent a leftward drift. Tune in for recommended media and more!

A significant shakeup at ICE sees half of its leadership reassigned, sparking debate on deportation strategies ahead of the midterms. The discussion dives into how public opinion and media shape immigration enforcement. Karine Jean-Pierre’s interview offers insights into identity politics and competency in the Biden administration. Meanwhile, the hosts explore the cultural phenomenon of 'gooning,' its impact on society, and potential conservative policy responses to online addictions. Finally, they share recommendations to counter cultural decline.

The latest round of “No Kings!” rallies, reportedly attended by 7 million—average attendee, per Axios, mid-40s and female—took to the streets this weekend in protest of…what monarchy, exactly? This week, three kings—Ryan, Matt, and Spencer—discuss progressive populism, John Bolton’s indictment for alleged mishandling of classified intelligence, and Zohran Mamdani’s likely victory despite a weak performance in New York’s mayoral debate. Plus: more cultural recommendations!Recommended media:The Claremont Institute Standing Athwart HistoryHasan Piker Is Flirting With the RevolutionBehind the Curtain: The Most Unprecedented Presidency in 250 YearsThe Camp of the Saints This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit claremontinstitute.substack.com

In a stirring climax to Trump’s middle east negotiations, 20 Israeli hostages were released back to their families after 738 days in brutal captivity. This week, hosts Spencer and Mike discuss the success of Trump’s plan thus far, the failure of previous efforts in the region, and the likelihood of lasting peace. Meanwhile, unguarded messages from a Young Republican group chat have leaked to the media. Is this more evidence of political hatred on the level of Jay Jones’s texts, or just edgy kids doing what edgy kids do? Plus: The Supreme Court takes up oral arguments again, and more cultural recommendations!Recommended reading:Leaked messages expose Young Republicans’ racist chatGorgias: Encomium of Helen This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit claremontinstitute.substack.com

Trump has a twenty-point plan to end the war in Gaza, emphasizing demilitarization and the release of hostages. On the two-year anniversary of the October 7 attack, the guys contemplate the plan’s prospects for success, Netanyahu’s political future, and domestic reactions. Meanwhile back home, leaked texts from Virginia Democrat Jay Jones express hair-raisingly violent fantasies about “fascist” conservative opponents and their families, epitomizing the Left’s bloodlust problem. Plus: Gen Z’s devolution of marriage structures, and more cultural recommendations!Cultural recommendations:Vibe Shift: Quantum Supremacy Guy Wins Physics NobelJay Jones’s Texts Are a Frightening Peek into a Bleak Moral WorldviewWhat Does Gen Z Divorce Look Like?Annihilation: A NovelAristophanes: Four Plays: Clouds, Birds, Lysistrata, Women of the Assembly This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit claremontinstitute.substack.com

This week, Matthew Peterson of The Blaze jumps in to discuss Pete Hegseth’s forceful declaration of war on DEI initiatives, including separate PT standards for women. Then the guys crack open Kamala Harris’s apologia for her campaign in 107 Days, comprising a list of all the people responsible for the election loss who are not named Kamala Harris. Late candidacy? Biden’s fault. Bad interviews? The host’s fault. Not elected? The people’s fault. Meanwhile, the AI firm Friend publicizes its attempt to supplant real human interaction, raising concerns about Big Tech fueling—and preying on—the mentally unwell. Plus: more cultural recommendations!Reading recommendations:Identity in the Trenches, by Will ThibeauThe Constant Battle, by Kamala HarrisFighting Enemies Foreign and Domestic, edited by Ryan P. WilliamsInforming Statecraft, by Angelo CodevillaI Hate My Friend This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit claremontinstitute.substack.com