Summary of "Kyle’s Verdict Is In" Episode of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

Release Date: November 25, 2021
Host: Ben Ferguson (hosted by Premiere Networks)
Episode Title: Kyle’s Verdict Is In

I. Introduction

In this compelling episode titled "Kyle’s Verdict Is In," host Ben Ferguson delves deep into the highly controversial trial of Kyle Rittenhouse. Joined by political commentator Liz Wheeler and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, the discussion aims to dissect the multifaceted aspects of the case, including the legal proceedings, media portrayal, and broader societal implications.

II. Breaking Down the Kyle Rittenhouse Case

Background and Events Leading to the Trial

The episode begins with Ted Cruz setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, emphasizing the polarized opinions surrounding it. Cruz states:

"This is Verdict with Ted Cruz... we’re gonna break down the case. What actually happened, what the law says, what the politics says, and what is gonna happen now."
(00:00)

Key Events in Kenosha, Wisconsin

Cruz outlines the events that transpired in Kenosha, highlighting the violent riots following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. He clarifies misconceptions about Rittenhouse's intentions and actions:

"Kyle went there to help protect the stores, help protect the properties that were being burned, that were being looted, and that, sadly, that the local law enforcement was not protecting."
(07:14)

III. Legal Proceedings and Verdict

Charges and Self-Defense Claims

Senator Michael discusses the specific charges against Rittenhouse and the legal rationale for his actions:

"He had six charges... one of the charges that was brought against him was that he was carrying a gun illegally. That charge was dismissed by the trial court as a matter of law."
(14:03)

Courtroom Dynamics and Jury Decision

The conversation touches upon the courtroom atmosphere and the jury's role in reaching a verdict:

"Rosenbaum would have still been alive. Huber would have still been alive. They would have been arrested for being violent criminals and rioting, but they would have still been alive."
(26:40)

IV. Media Portrayal and Political Narratives

Contrasting Media Perspectives

Liz Wheeler and Senator Michael critique the media's portrayal of Rittenhouse, arguing that it lacks factual grounding and is influenced by political bias:

"He was a teenage kid who the press made a public figure... the media and celebrities and Democrats attacking him, he had not done anything to make himself a public figure."
(22:48)

Impact of Political Bias on Public Perception

The hosts discuss how political narratives shape public opinion, often disregarding factual evidence presented during the trial:

"They said it deliberately. They said it repeatedly. And listen, this is something I've been saying for some time... we're gonna call him a Nazi. And who cares what the facts are, because it fits my politics."
(21:50)

V. Implications and Future Considerations

Potential Legal Actions Post-Verdict

The episode explores the possibility of Kyle Rittenhouse pursuing defamation lawsuits against media outlets and public figures who labeled him inaccurately:

"I think Rittenhouse has a very strong case. I think he will file defamation lawsuits... I very much hope the people who were willing to spread lies... I hope we see some very big damages awarded to Kyle Rittenhouse."
(23:08)

Department of Justice's Role and Partisan Concerns

Senator Michael expresses concerns about the Biden administration's Department of Justice potentially reviewing the verdict, viewing it as a partisan maneuver:

"If the Department of Justice went after Rittenhouse, it would be an absolute abuse of power and a partisan abuse of power."
(20:57)

Broader Implications for the Criminal Justice System

The discussion broadens to critique the current state of criminal justice reform, arguing that extreme measures may inadvertently increase public safety risks:

"The dark side of criminal justice reform... people who have done very bad things, who are not reformed, who are gonna do really bad things again, go out and what do they do?"
(32:36)

VI. Conclusion

The episode concludes with a commendation of the jury's courage and a call to uphold the integrity of the justice system amidst rising political and media pressures:

"I just want to praise those 12 men and women for doing the right thing in the face of a real risk of intimidation and violence."
(33:31)

Senator Cruz echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the rarity of moral clarity and the importance of such judicial decisions in maintaining societal order:

"Courage and moral clarity are in short supply. So it's really edifying and gratifying to see people exercise that."
(34:49)

Notable Quotes

• Ted Cruz on Media Misrepresentation:

  "Look, there are people who are actually in a position to know facts. And they decided this 17-year-old's life doesn't matter to me. I'm gonna call him a Nazi."
  (22:48)

• Senator Michael on Legal Standards:

  "The New York Times can say nasty stuff about me... but Rittenhouse has a real argument that he was not a public figure."
  (23:08)

• Liz Wheeler on Future Legal Challenges:

  "They're interested in destroying Kyle Rittenhouse's life, his reputation, his future... They don't care that the jury heard the evidence and has spoken."
  (26:40)

This episode of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson offers a critical analysis of the Kyle Rittenhouse verdict, challenging prevailing media narratives and exploring the intersection of law, politics, and societal perceptions. Through thoughtful dialogue, the hosts advocate for a justice system grounded in factual integrity and warn against the ramifications of politicized legal interpretations.