Podcast Summary: "Will We Ever Return to Normal?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson
• Host/Author: Premiere Networks
• Episode: Will We Ever Return to Normal?
• Release Date: December 8, 2020

Introduction

In the December 8, 2020 episode titled "Will We Ever Return to Normal?" of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson, hosts Ted Cruz and Michael Knowles engage in a candid discussion about the state of America amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. They explore themes such as governmental policies, the impact of lockdowns, political hypocrisy, and the broader question of societal norms in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Key Discussion Points

1. The Concept of the "New Normal"

   The conversation kicks off with the central question: "When will we be able to return to normal?" asked by Ted Cruz at [00:28]. Both hosts express skepticism about the possibility of returning to pre-pandemic norms.

   • Michael Knowles emphasizes the temporary nature of crises, likening the situation to kidney stones: "This insanity will end." ([00:19])

   • Ted Cruz echoes this sentiment but raises concerns about the lasting changes imposed by political decisions: "Are we in the new normal?" ([00:28])

2. Political Hypocrisy and Lockdowns

   A significant portion of the discussion centers around perceived hypocrisy among Democratic politicians regarding COVID-19 lockdowns and personal behavior.

   • Michael Knowles criticizes Democratic use of the pandemic for political gain: "There was no doubt there were a lot of Democratic politicians using this crisis for political advantage by decreeing shutdown, shutting down churches, exercising extraordinary power." ([01:42])

   • Ted Cruz provides specific examples, such as the Governor of California dining at a restaurant despite advocating for closures: "He decrees all of these mandates and then goes to a very fancy restaurant..." ([04:19])

   • The hosts highlight incidents where politicians failed to adhere to their own guidelines, undermining public trust: "Don't go out. Stay home. This Thanksgiving, you need to stay home... he literally went from making that announcement, jumped on a private plane, flew to Mexico with a bunch of his buddies." ([05:02])

3. Impact of Lockdowns on Communities and the Arts

   The discussion delves into the detrimental effects of lockdowns on various sectors, particularly the arts and small businesses.

   • Michael Knowles laments the shutdown of Broadway and its impact on artists: "Broadway... it's been shut down for six months. And if you're a mega superstar, you'll be fine... what about all the lighting guys? What about the set designers?" ([17:45])

   • The conversation also touches on the struggles of family-owned businesses due to prolonged closures: "Bars, live event venues... two, three generations that have been obliterated." ([18:09])

4. Death Penalty and Justice System Reforms

   Moving beyond the pandemic, the hosts discuss the potential shifts in the justice system under a Biden administration.

   • Ted Cruz raises concerns about the Department of Justice enforcing stricter measures: "Attorney General Bill Barr has been behind the scenes... ramping up justice over the next month or two." ([19:26])

   • Michael Knowles advocates for the execution of individuals on federal death row, arguing against perceived leniency: "What you can't differ about is what current law is current law. In a number of states, the death penalty is the ultimate punishment." ([20:02])

5. Supreme Court and Long-Term Implications

   The hosts briefly discuss the long-term impact of political decisions on the judiciary.

   • Michael Knowles warns against the Democrats' efforts to influence the Supreme Court, suggesting it could cause "fundamental structural damage": "The most consequential thing is if the Democrats succeed In packing the U.S. supreme Court, I think that does fundamental structural damage." ([26:09])

Notable Quotes

• Michael Knowles [00:19]: "This insanity will end."

• Ted Cruz [04:19]: "He decrees all of these mandates and then goes to a very fancy restaurant..."

• Michael Knowles [17:45]: "Broadway... it's been shut down for six months."

• Michael Knowles [20:02]: "What you can't differ about is what current law is current law."

• Michael Knowles [26:09]: "If the Democrats succeed In packing the U.S. supreme Court, I think that does fundamental structural damage."

Insights and Analysis

Ted Cruz and Michael Knowles provide a conservative perspective on the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the political landscape. They critique the inconsistency and alleged misuse of emergency powers by Democratic leaders, highlighting instances where officials failed to adhere to the very rules they imposed on the public. This hypocrisy, they argue, erodes trust in government and complicates efforts to manage the crisis effectively.

The hosts also express concern over the long-term implications of political decisions, particularly regarding the justice system and the Supreme Court. They fear that a Biden administration could lead to significant shifts in policy and judicial appointments that may have enduring impacts on American society.

Conclusions

The episode "Will We Ever Return to Normal?" underscores the uncertainty and frustration felt by many amidst the pandemic. Ted Cruz and Michael Knowles articulate a desire for a return to pre-pandemic normalcy but acknowledge the complexities introduced by political actions and societal changes. They advocate for accountability among leaders and caution against policies that may have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate crisis.

Final Thoughts

For listeners who missed the episode, this summary encapsulates the critical examination of governmental responses to COVID-19, the importance of maintaining trust in public institutions, and the broader implications for American societal norms and governance. The hosts’ perspectives offer a lens through which to evaluate current events and consider their potential trajectories in shaping the future of the United States.