Podcast Summary: "Cruzing on Air Force One" The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson Release Date: August 4, 2020
Introduction
In the episode titled "Cruzing on Air Force One," host Ben Ferguson delves into an in-depth conversation with Senator Ted Cruz, exploring a range of pressing political and economic issues. The discussion provides listeners with unfiltered insights into the President's administration, legislative challenges, and the broader political landscape shaping America during the tumultuous year of 2020.
Aboard Air Force One
The episode kicks off with Senator Cruz recounting his recent experience flying on Air Force One. At [00:49], Cruz shares:
"We take the van, we go jump on Air Force One. The president joins us, we take off while we're in the air. So we're headed to Midland, Texas."
Cruz describes the dynamic onboard, contrasting his interactions with former President Barack Obama and current President Donald Trump. Unlike Obama, who maintained a more formal and detached demeanor, Trump is portrayed as highly engaged and personable, actively interacting with accompanying congressional members. Cruz emphasizes the value of his time with the President, highlighting:
"We had probably seven hours of he and I discussing in particular the economic challenges in the country and the legislation moving through the Senate right now. And so it was a propitious time to be there with him." [05:48]
This segment underscores the significance of direct dialogue between the President and key legislative figures, providing a firsthand look at the administration's priorities and strategies.
Economic Relief Legislation
The heart of the discussion centers on the contentious economic relief bills proposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. At [06:05], Senator Cruz begins by critiquing the Democratic approach:
"The Nancy Pelosi $3 trillion bill that they passed a couple of months ago is an absolute monstrosity."
He argues that the bill is more of a "campaign document" than a viable legislative solution, lacking bipartisan support and disregarding fiscal responsibility. Contrasting this, Cruz critiques the Republican response led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell:
"The so-called Republican leadership plan is... only $1 trillion. But it's fundamentally flawed."
Cruz expresses strong opposition to the Republican proposal, emphasizing both the insufficient funding and the misalignment with effective economic recovery strategies. At [07:52], he states:
"As the legislation currently stands, you're not just a no, you're a hell no."
Unemployment Benefits and Economic Incentives
A significant portion of the conversation addresses the impact of enhanced unemployment benefits introduced by Congress. Cruz criticizes the addition of $600 weekly benefits, highlighting the adverse effects on workforce participation. At [12:06], he explains:
"If you’re paid more to do something else, you’re gonna follow the incentives. But that’s terrible for you and it’s terrible for the economy."
Using data from a Cato Institute survey, Cruz underscores his prediction that increased unemployment benefits disincentivize returning to work:
"68% of people nationally right now... are receiving more unemployment than their previous salary. 20% are receiving double their previous salary." [12:06]
He argues that such policies create a "recipe to keep people out of work," ultimately harming both individuals and the broader economy.
Bill Barr Testimony and Congressional Tensions
The episode transitions to discussing the contentious testimony of former Attorney General William Barr before Congress. Cruz criticizes the Democratic approach, describing their interactions as dismissive and obstructive. At [23:31], he recounts:
"They attack you and they don’t give you a chance to respond. We have that conversation."
Cruz also reveals plans for an upcoming Senate hearing on riots, violence, and antifa, promising a more balanced discourse:
"If I’m chairing the hearing, you’re damn well going to get a full chance to respond to each and every attack headed your way." [26:00]
This segment highlights the ongoing friction between Republicans and Democrats in legislative settings, emphasizing Cruz's commitment to fair and thorough discussions.
Future of Urban Centers: Focus on New York City
Addressing concerns about urban centers grappling with increased violence and political unrest, Cruz offers a historical perspective on New York City's resilience. At [28:02], he states:
"New York went through this in the 60s and 70s and we saw rampant crime in New York. New York was facing bankruptcy."
Cruz critiques current Democratic policies under Mayor Bill de Blasio, arguing that radical measures like defunding the NYPD exacerbate urban challenges:
"De Blasio and the radicals have forgotten those lessons. I think they will go through a dark period, and many of our cities may go through a dark period."
However, he remains optimistic about the city's future, drawing parallels to past recoveries:
"When the failures of radical left policies become evident, I think people will turn back to them and say, hey, we want a New York City where you can walk in Central Park again and be safe." [31:01]
Conclusion
Senator Ted Cruz's interview on "Cruzing on Air Force One" provides a comprehensive critique of both Democratic and Republican responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic repercussions. From his firsthand experience with the President aboard Air Force One to his analysis of legislative strategies and urban policy, Cruz offers a staunchly conservative perspective aimed at promoting economic recovery, job creation, and law and order. The episode serves as a valuable resource for listeners seeking an in-depth understanding of the political maneuvers shaping America's path during a crisis.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
[00:49]
"We take the van, we go jump on Air Force One. The president joins us, we take off while we're in the air. So we're headed to Midland, Texas."
-
[05:48]
"We had probably seven hours of he and I discussing in particular the economic challenges in the country and the legislation moving through the Senate right now. And so it was a propitious time to be there with him."
-
[07:52]
"As the legislation currently stands, you're not just a no, you're a hell no."
-
[12:06]
"If you’re paid more to do something else, you’re gonna follow the incentives. But that’s terrible for you and it’s terrible for the economy."
-
[23:31]
"They attack you and they don’t give you a chance to respond. We have that conversation."
-
[26:00]
"If I’m chairing the hearing, you’re damn well going to get a full chance to respond to each and every attack headed your way."
-
[28:02]
"New York went through this in the 60s and 70s and we saw rampant crime in New York. New York was facing bankruptcy."
-
[31:01]
"When the failures of radical left policies become evident, I think people will turn back to them and say, hey, we want a New York City where you can walk in Central Park again and be safe."
Closing Remarks
This episode of "The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson" offers a compelling exploration of current political and economic challenges through the lens of Senator Ted Cruz. By addressing key issues such as legislative effectiveness, unemployment incentives, and urban policy, Cruz provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the strategies and ideologies driving America's response to unprecedented times.