Podcast Summary: "The Redefinition of Marriage"

Podcast: The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson
Host: Premiere Networks
Episode Title: The Redefinition of Marriage
Release Date: July 22, 2022

I. Introduction

In the episode titled "The Redefinition of Marriage," hosted by Ben Ferguson on The 47 Morning Update, Ferguson delves into the contentious debate surrounding the Supreme Court's Obergefell decision and its implications on the definition of marriage in the United States. Engaging in a robust discussion with political commentator Liz Wheeler, the episode explores the intersection of constitutional interpretation, political strategy, and societal values.

II. The Redefinition of Marriage

A. Obergefell Decision and Its Critique Liz Wheeler initiates the conversation by addressing the backlash against their views on marriage, emphasizing that her stance aligns with conservative interpretations of the Constitution. She states:

“Obergefell was clearly wrong. It was wrongly decided, which is exactly what I said the day it came down.”
(04:26)

Wheeler critiques the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, arguing that marriage should be defined through the democratic process rather than judicial decree. She underscores that the decision was an overreach by the Court, bypassing the will of the electorate in favor of an imposition of what she terms “a brand new right.”

B. Media and Political Reaction The hosts discuss the media's role in amplifying their viewpoints, often leading to misrepresentation and political repercussions. Wheeler highlights how a snippet from their subscriber-only show was taken out of context, resulting in Senator Chuck Schumer labeling her as "unhinged" on the Senate floor.

“All of the lefty Twitter activists, all of the corrupt corporate media ignored that entire discussion.”
(06:31)

C. House Vote to Define Marriage The conversation shifts to a recent House vote where 47 Republican members supported a bill to enshrine a traditional definition of marriage federally. Wheeler explains the political maneuvering behind this vote, suggesting it serves as a strategic distraction from other Democratic policy failures.

“The entire reason Democrats are having this vote is for political messaging and really to distract from every other aspect of their agenda.”
(11:04)

D. Prospects of a Senate Vote Discussing the likelihood of the bill advancing in the Senate, Wheeler expresses skepticism. She notes that while the House action was a significant move, the Senate may not follow suit unless there's substantial Republican support, which remains uncertain.

“If it comes up to move to proceed to the bill, we'll take 60 votes. That's the standard rule in the Senate.”
(12:55)

III. Electoral Count Act Reform

A listener's question about proposed reforms to the Electoral Count Act is addressed. Wheeler expresses distrust towards the Democrats’ intentions, suggesting that the reforms may undermine constitutional safeguards rather than strengthen electoral integrity.

“Democrats and a lot of wobbly Republicans who are really unhappy about January 6th... don't like that idea.”
(16:37)

IV. January 6 Prosecutions

The hosts critique the Department of Justice's handling of January 6th defendants, contrasting it with perceived leniency towards individuals who disrupted Capitol proceedings for satirical purposes, such as Stephen Colbert's staffers.

“The Biden Department of Justice is fundamentally corrupt and political. It is politicized. It is weaponized.”
(18:29)

Wheeler advocates for fair treatment, emphasizing that only those who committed acts of violence should be prosecuted, while peaceful protesters deserve constitutional protections.

V. Cultural Discussions

A. Cookie Monster Incident A listener raises a cultural question regarding an incident where Cookie Monster allegedly ignored African American children seeking high fives. Wheeler condemns the behavior, asserting that all children deserve equal treatment.

“All children deserve a high five. I'm pro child.”
(26:08)

B. Brad Pitt's Fashion Choice Another listener queries whether Senator Cruz plans to embrace changing fashion norms after Brad Pitt wore a skirt. Wheeler humorously declines, expressing no interest in adopting such styles.

“I got no interest in wearing a skirt... It actually sounds kind of cold.”
(31:43)

VI. Other Topics

A. Judicial Clerkships Addressing a law student's inquiry, Wheeler emphasizes the importance of clerking for federal judges, sharing personal experiences from her time clerking for Judge Mike Ludig and Chief Justice William Rehnquist. She highlights how these experiences provide invaluable insights into legal processes and judicial decision-making.

“If you want to be a litigator, it's the single most important thing you can do.”
(36:26)

B. Antichrist in the Bible When asked about the Antichrist's existence today, Wheeler expresses uncertainty, noting the ambiguity of biblical prophecies and advocating for focusing on positive societal contributions rather than speculative eschatology.

“The world could end tomorrow... we have work to do.”
(38:39)

VII. Conclusion

Wrapping up, the hosts return to political strategizing, discussing potential Democratic tactics to divert attention from pressing issues like inflation and immigration by reigniting concerns over health-related matters such as COVID-19. They express confidence in Republican resilience against these distractions.

“Republicans are winning 50 to 70 seats in the House... they're desperate to change the topic to anything.”
(42:22)

The episode concludes with a light-hearted exchange and a brief promotional segment, maintaining the show's blend of serious political discourse and satirical commentary.

Notable Quotes

• Liz Wheeler on Obergefell Decision:
  “Obergefell was clearly wrong. It was wrongly decided, which is exactly what I said the day it came down.”
  (04:26)

• Discussion on Media Amplification:
  “All of the lefty Twitter activists, all of the corrupt corporate media ignored that entire discussion.”
  (06:31)

• House Vote Strategic Purpose:
  “The entire reason Democrats are having this vote is for political messaging and really to distract from every other aspect of their agenda.”
  (11:04)

• Judicial Clerkships Importance:
  “If you want to be a litigator, it's the single most important thing you can do.”
  (36:26)

Conclusion

"The Redefinition of Marriage" episode of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson offers a comprehensive exploration of the ongoing debate over marriage laws, the interplay between judicial decisions and democratic processes, and the broader political strategies at play. Through incisive commentary and strategic analysis, Ben Ferguson and Liz Wheeler provide listeners with a nuanced perspective on one of America's most divisive social issues.