Podcast Summary: Part Of The Problem – "The LA Riots"

Host: Dave Smith
Guest: Robbie Bernstein
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Platform: GaS Digital Network

Introduction

In the June 10, 2025 episode of "Part Of The Problem", host Dave Smith engages in a profound discussion with his co-host Robbie Bernstein about the recent Los Angeles riots. The conversation delves into the deployment of the National Guard, the nuances of immigration policy under different administrations, and the broader implications for Libertarian principles.

The LA Riots: A Historic Perspective

Dave opens the discussion by highlighting the unprecedented nature of the current LA riots. He notes,

"It is the first time that the National Guard has been deployed to break up riots since the LA riots of the '90s. And this was pretty crazy to me." (00:31)

This deployment marks a significant shift, especially since it bypasses the state government's opposition—a first since the civil rights era in Selma.

National Guard Deployment and Government Dynamics

Dave elaborates on the complexities surrounding the National Guard's intervention:

"Rob is the first time that the National Guard has been deployed against the wishes of the state government." (00:31)

Robbie adds context by referencing media narratives:

"There was also the COVID element... rioting in the name of racism protected you from COVID which also just amplified the cartoonish behavior of the press." (07:40)

The hosts discuss how past and present administrations handle riots, emphasizing the political ramifications of swift versus delayed responses.

Comparing Current Riots to 2020 Protests

Dave draws parallels between the current riots and the 2020 George Floyd protests:

"The riots also became a thing that became fodder to mock the corporate media... They're not quite doing that or they're not laying it on as thick this time." (07:40)

Robbie critiques the media's portrayal, suggesting a disconnect between reported narratives and on-the-ground realities.

Immigration Policy Under Trump vs. Biden

A significant portion of the discussion centers around immigration enforcement:

"While there has been broad support in the abstract for deportations, there is the real potential for Donald Trump to fall into something here." (04:19)

Robbie emphasizes the economic necessity of immigrant labor, referencing interviews with economists like David Stockman:

"David Stockman... immigrants are actually so important to our country." (15:57)

The conversation navigates the delicate balance between enforcing immigration laws and recognizing the indispensable role of immigrants in various industries.

Libertarian Views on Riots and Property Rights

Dave asserts a firm Libertarian stance against riots, linking them directly to violations of property rights and the non-aggression principle:

"What is a riot other than the biggest threat to property rights and the non-aggression principle?" (11:32)

Robbie concurs, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between peaceful protests and violent riots, and the challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining this balance.

Human Psychology and the Dynamics of Riots

The hosts explore the psychological underpinnings of riots, referencing early propaganda theories:

"In riots, people will do things that they would never personally do. There's some sort of an energy to the crowd." (40:10)

Robbie recommends the book "A Crowd", highlighting how group dynamics can lead individuals to act out of character during riots.

Impact on Political Landscape

Dave and Robbie analyze how the handling of the LA riots could influence political fortunes, particularly for Donald Trump:

"This is why Kamala Harris, in her 2020 presidential campaign... this was a big factor in it, was that in 2020 there was just a different atmosphere." (54:23)

They posit that decisive action against riots may bolster Trump's standing among voters who favor law and order, while indecisiveness could undermine Democratic campaigns.

Child Labor and Societal Structures

In a thought-provoking segment, Dave transitions to discussing child labor, critiquing state-imposed societal norms:

"This is not an organic function of the market at all. This is totally like top down imposed by the state..." (54:42)

He argues for the reintroduction of manual labor roles for teenagers, suggesting it could instill responsibility and provide valuable life experiences.

Robbie humorously responds:

"Cue the headline, Dave Smith wants to put the six year olds to work." (61:37)

However, he acknowledges the merits of having young individuals engage in manual labor, sharing personal experiences to illustrate the benefits.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Dave and Robbie reiterating their positions on the necessity of opposing riots, enforcing immigration laws, and reconsidering societal norms around work and education. They emphasize the importance of maintaining order to preserve civil liberties and uphold Libertarian values.

Notable Quotes

• Dave Smith (00:31):
  "It is the first time that the National Guard has been deployed to break up riots since the LA riots of the '90s."

• Robbie Bernstein (07:40):
  "Rioting in the name of racism protected you from COVID which also just amplified the cartoonish behavior of the press."

• Dave Smith (11:32):
  "What is a riot other than the biggest threat to property rights and the non-aggression principle?"

• Robbie Bernstein (40:10):
  "In riots, people will do things that they would never personally do. There's some sort of an energy to the crowd."

Final Thoughts

Dave and Robbie provide a comprehensive analysis of the LA riots, weaving in historical context, political strategy, and Libertarian ideology. Their discussion offers listeners a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding civil unrest, government intervention, and societal norms.

For more insights and in-depth discussions, subscribe to "Part Of The Problem" at https://partoftheproblem.com.

Timestamp Guide: Clickable timestamps are placeholders and would typically link to the respective parts of the podcast.