Summary of "Oligarch Foot Rubs" Episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand

Released on April 23, 2025 | Host: iHeartPodcasts

The "Oligarch Foot Rubs" episode of the Armstrong & Getty On Demand podcast delves into the contentious political landscape surrounding California Congressman Kevin Kiley. The hosts, Ryan Seacrest and Drew Goins, engage in a spirited dialogue with Christina Quinn from the Washington Post's "Try This" podcast, critically examining Kiley's political stance and his defense against allegations of serving oligarchic interests.

1. Introduction to the Controversy

The episode opens with Christina Quinn setting the stage for a heated discussion about Kevin Kiley. She asserts, “[Kevin Kiley] knows that it is deeply unpopular. He knows that it hurts the people of Folsom. But he is not there to serve working families” (02:39). This provocative statement frames the conversation, highlighting the tension between Kiley and progressive figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and Bernie Sanders.

2. Kevin Kiley’s Defense Against Oligarch Allegations

Ryan Seacrest introduces Congressman Kevin Kiley, inviting him to respond to the criticisms. Kiley swiftly rebuts the claims, emphasizing his commitment to fiscal responsibility and educational choice. At 04:27, Kiley states:

“They want their socialists. They believe in open borders. They believe in defunding the police. They believe in essentially attacking and effectively abolishing small businesses or at least making life miserable for them.”

Kiley argues that the socialist policies advocated by AOC and Sanders have led to tangible negative outcomes in California, such as “out of control crime and homelessness and poverty” (05:41).

3. The Reality of Income Inequality in California

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the stark income inequality in California. Kiley highlights:

“California has one of the most, is one of the most highest inequality states in the entire country. So I'd say just look at the reality that we have” (05:41).

He further underscores the impact of bureaucratic red tape on small businesses, noting that excessive permit fees and regulations discourage entrepreneurship, leading to closures of beloved local establishments (08:12). Kiley cites statistics stating, “California has the highest poverty rate in the United States when you factor in the cost of living” (08:55), reinforcing his argument against the effectiveness of current state policies.

4. Critique of Socialist Policies and Their Impact

Kiley positions himself as a proponent of “common sense” solutions contrasting the “radical socialism” he attributes to his political adversaries (07:09). He argues that the policies promoted by AOC and Sanders have not only failed to deliver on their promises but have actively worsened the socio-economic conditions in regions like San Francisco and Oakland.

5. Education System and Academic Freedom

Shifting focus, the conversation transitions to the state of academic freedom and the challenges within the American education system (09:24). Kiley addresses the rise in antisemitism on campuses, describing incidents that threatened student safety and led to widespread campus shutdowns (09:53). He contends that these issues are symptomatic of deeper cultural problems within academia, necessitating "fundamental reforms" to protect free speech and ensure academic integrity.

“Harvard was dead last [in protecting free speech].” (11:27)

6. Anecdotal Insights on Elite Education and Abuse

Drew Goins introduces a historical perspective by recounting brutal practices in early 20th-century elite British private schools, drawing parallels to current criticisms of Kiley. He narrates an account where students were forced into degrading positions, such as acting as footstools for authority figures (15:53). This anecdote serves to illustrate the extent of control and dehumanization that can occur within elite institutions, indirectly questioning the integrity of those in power, including politicians like Kiley.

7. Concluding Remarks and Light-Hearted Banter

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Kiley engage in lighter conversation, diffusing some of the earlier tension. Ryan Seacrest and Drew Goins share humorous exchanges about the unusual practices in elite schools and the metaphorical "foot rubs" associated with oligarchs (14:34). Kiley maintains his composure, reinforcing his commitment to his constituents and dismissing the accusations leveled against him.

Notable Quotes

• Christina Quinn (02:39):

  “Kevin Kiley knows that it is deeply unpopular. He knows that it hurts the people of Folsom. But he is not there to serve working families.”

• Kevin Kiley (04:27):

  “They want their socialists. They believe in open borders. They believe in defunding the police. They believe in essentially attacking and effectively abolishing small businesses or at least making life miserable for them.”

• Kevin Kiley (05:41):

  “California has one of the most, is one of the most highest inequality states in the entire country. So I'd say just look at the reality that we have.”

• Kevin Kiley (11:27):

  “Harvard was dead last [in protecting free speech].”

Conclusion

"Oligarch Foot Rubs" offers a robust exploration of the political dynamics within California, spotlighting Congressman Kevin Kiley's defense against allegations of serving elite interests. Through incisive discussions on income inequality, socialist policies, and the state of academic freedom, the episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing debates shaping American politics. The inclusion of historical anecdotes and light-hearted exchanges further enriches the narrative, making the complex issues accessible and engaging for a broad audience.