Podcast Summary: "Is Political Violence Becoming Normal?" with Arizona AG Kris Mayes

Podcast Information:

• Title: Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know
• Host: 186k Films
• Episode: Is Political Violence Becoming Normal? with Arizona AG Kris Mayes
• Release Date: July 18, 2025
• Description: Two-time Peabody Award-winning comedian and noted IBS sufferer Hasan Minhaj engages with prominent figures in politics, culture, and tech, posing questions that blend thought-provoking insights with absurdity. In each episode, Hasan fosters a respectful yet inquisitive dialogue, aiming to explore beyond conventional talking points.

Introduction to Arizona’s Political Landscape

The episode kicks off with Hasan Piker highlighting the precarious political balance in Arizona. He paints a vivid picture of the state as a battleground where Democratic and Republican forces are in a constant tug-of-war.

Hasan Piker [00:21]:

"Arizona Attorney General Chris Mayes won her 2022 election by just 280 votes... It is the Jean Claude Van Damme doing the splits between two 18 wheelers of state."

This metaphor underscores Arizona’s divided political climate, emphasizing the narrow margins and the state's role as a microcosm of broader national tensions.

Chris Mayes: A Political Journey

Chris Mayes’s political trajectory is a focal point of the discussion. Originally a Republican, he switched to the Democratic Party in 2019, becoming the first in Arizona's history to win a statewide election under both banners. This switch was primarily motivated by his opposition to the Trump administration’s immigration policies.

Chris Mayes [03:27]:

"This is not John McCain's Republican Party anymore... It's why I left."

His departure from the Republican Party underscores the deep ideological rifts and the perceived hijacking of the party by MAGA and right-wing factions.

The Normalization of Violent Political Rhetoric

The conversation delves into the increasing prevalence of violent rhetoric in American politics, tracing its roots back to pivotal moments like the 2011 assassination attempt on Gabby Giffords.

Hasan Piker [03:50]:

"14 years later, do you feel like this sort of violent political rhetoric has now become the norm at White House?"

Chris Mayes concurs, expressing concern that such rhetoric has become standard, particularly among right-wing circles, and links it to events like January 6th.

Chris Mayes [04:04]:

"I don't think it has left let up at all... that language... still is in our politics, primarily on the other side, unfortunately."

Addressing Death Threats and Accountability

A significant portion of the episode focuses on threats against politicians, particularly following Donald Trump’s remarks perceived as death threats towards Liz Cheney.

Hasan Piker [04:57]:

"Donald Trump said something about Liz Cheney at a rally in your state, Arizona, that many people interpreted as a death threat."

Chris Mayes discusses his efforts to investigate these remarks as potential death threats, highlighting the challenges of holding political leaders accountable.

Chris Mayes [05:22]:

"I think that is an attempted coup because it's never happened in our country before."

The Role of Attorney General in Upholding the Law

Chris Mayes emphasizes his commitment to upholding the Constitution and maintaining the rule of law, regardless of political pressures. He highlights his office's work beyond high-profile lawsuits, including combating the fentanyl crisis and protecting consumers and the elderly.

Chris Mayes [08:05]:

"I'm the top law enforcement officer of the state of Arizona... I am going to file a lawsuit to try to stop him or her from violating the Constitution."

Arizona as a Swing State: Demographic Shifts

The discussion shifts to Arizona’s evolving status as a purple swing state, driven by significant migration from states like California and New York.

Chris Mayes [15:03]:

"We're getting... So it's turning us purple. Same thing happened in Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico."

This influx brings political diversity, challenging traditional voting patterns and making Arizona a pivotal battleground in national elections.

Immigration Policy: Balancing Security and Humanity

Immigration emerges as a central theme, with Chris Mayes outlining the complexities of enforcing immigration laws while addressing the humanitarian aspects.

Chris Mayes [22:05]:

"We are not going to tolerate death threats against any elected official, any elections official... We had one county election director who had her dog poisoned to death in Arizona."

He critiques the current administration's approach to immigration, distinguishing between lawful enforcement and what he perceives as indiscriminate deportations.

Hasan Piker [23:58]:

"There's a fissure between what you feel your position on immigration is and what is happening at the federal level."

Fighting the Fentanyl Crisis

A significant concern is the fentanyl crisis, with over half of the fentanyl seized in the U.S. in the past three years being intercepted in Arizona.

Chris Mayes [36:36]:

"More than 50% of all the fentanyl seized in the United States was seized in Arizona in the last three years."

He discusses legislative measures to empower local law enforcement to combat the influx of fentanyl, including the use of drones to intercept drug shipments.

Public Perception and Media Framing

The conversation touches on how immigration and related issues are framed in the media, influencing public perception and policy debates.

Hasan Piker [31:18]:

"The way this is framed. We will see the way politicians and public officials use rhetoric to shape an immigration policy that's going to happen over the next few years."

Chris Mayes agrees, emphasizing the need for balanced discourse that recognizes both the security concerns and the contributions of immigrants to the economy.

Chris Mayes [35:16]:

"We do have to find a way to talk about this... These things can be both true."

Personal Interlude: Thermostat Settings

In a lighter moment, Hasan and Chris share anecdotes about thermostat settings, providing a personal touch to the conversation and showcasing their rapport.

Hasan Piker [38:54]:

"You set your thermostat at 73. Really?"

Chris Mayes [39:03]:

"Not that strict in my house."

Conclusion: Upholding the Rule of Law and Seeking Unity

The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the importance of upholding the rule of law and fostering dialogue across political divides. Chris Mayes advocates for continued efforts to protect democratic institutions and address pressing issues like the fentanyl crisis and immigration reform.

Chris Mayes [35:38]:

"We need to make a decision about visas... But that's sort of, I think, a decision at a federal level."

Hasan Piker [40:08]:

"Listen, General Maze, this was a lot of fun. Thank you so much for being part."

Notable Quotes:

• Hasan Piker [00:21]: "It is the Jean Claude Van Damme doing the splits between two 18 wheelers of state."

• Chris Mayes [03:27]: "This is not John McCain's Republican Party anymore... It's why I left."

• Chris Mayes [04:04]: "I don't think it has left let up at all... that language... still is in our politics, primarily on the other side, unfortunately."

• Chris Mayes [05:22]: "I think that is an attempted coup because it's never happened in our country before."

• Hasan Piker [28:00]: "Because the Republicans, they have kids in cages. But then a Democrat will just go, they're just children in cubicles."

• Chris Mayes [35:16]: "We do have to find a way to talk about this... These things can be both true."

Conclusion:

This episode of "Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know" features a compelling dialogue between Hasan Piker and Arizona Attorney General Chris Mayes, exploring the normalization of political violence, the complexities of Arizona's shifting political landscape, and the multifaceted challenges of immigration policy. Through candid discussions and insightful exchanges, the conversation underscores the urgent need for balanced policy approaches and bipartisan dialogue to address the pressing issues facing Arizona and the broader United States.