Summary of "A Look Back At 2024 | Ben’s Best Moments" – The Ben Shapiro Show
Release Date: December 30, 2024
Introduction
In the episode titled "A Look Back At 2024 | Ben’s Best Moments," Ben Shapiro provides a comprehensive recap of the tumultuous and event-packed year of 2024. From high-profile collaborations and viral moments to significant political events and personal interactions, Shapiro highlights the key moments that defined the year. This summary captures the essence of the discussions, notable quotes, and the overarching themes that Ben Shapiro emphasizes throughout the episode.
January Highlights: Auschwitz Visit and Elon Musk Collaboration
Timestamp: [00:00] – [03:28]
Ben Shapiro begins the year by recounting an extraordinary week in January where he embarked on a profound journey to Auschwitz with tech magnate Elon Musk. This visit was initiated following a prior discussion on anti-Semitism on Musk’s X forum in 2023, where Musk expressed interest in visiting the historic site.
Ben Shapiro: “Walking the grounds of Auschwitz and then walking the grounds more specifically of Birkenau… was an amazing, amazing experience.” [02:48]
During their visit, Shapiro and Musk engaged in a thought-provoking conversation covering topics from artificial intelligence and space exploration to free speech and innovation.
Elon Musk: “Free speech is the bedrock of democracy and free speech is what allows atrocities to be called out and for people to be aware of them.” [01:53]
Shapiro also delves into the topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), presenting it as a fading and legally questionable concept.
Ben Shapiro: “DEI effectively is a conspiracy theory… it is actually illegal because it discriminates on the basis of race, sexual preference, and all sorts of other things.” [02:02]
Debates and Music Ventures
Timestamp: [03:28] – [05:06]
In the same week as the Auschwitz visit, Shapiro participated in a three-hour debate with internet streamer Destiny on Lex Friedman's show. The debate delved into various subjects, including Donald Trump’s foreign and domestic policies.
Ben Shapiro: “I don't think any amount of changes in the schools will create two-parent households.” [04:11]
Additionally, Shapiro explored his foray into music by releasing the rap single "Facts" featuring Tom McDonald. The collaboration was both a humorous and strategic move, leading to significant chart success.
Tom McDonald: “They're been taken down. They've all been replaced with BLM flags or a rainbow.” [04:43]
Shapiro reflects on the unlikely success of the single, highlighting its rapid rise to the top of the hip hop and Billboard charts.
Border Crisis Reporting
Timestamp: [05:06] – [12:24]
Shapiro takes listeners through a harrowing experience reporting on the southern border crisis. He visits a Native American reservation in Arizona, riding along with Brandon Judd, the newly appointed ambassador to Chile and head of the National Border Patrol Officers Union. The trip reveals alarming deficiencies in border security under the Biden administration, including sightings of Mexican drug cartel drones and rampant drug issues.
Ben Shapiro: “It was a shocking experience, frankly, to watch Mexican drug cartel drones flying above the American border.” [05:06]
Shapiro also documents the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis in Camden, New Jersey, and Kensington, Philadelphia, describing these areas as nearly unmanageable with rampant open-air drug markets and violent drug use.
Congressional Testimony and Media Censorship
Timestamp: [12:24] – [19:39]
In July, Shapiro testifies before Congress regarding the manipulative practices of the organization Garm and the Global Alliance for Responsible Media. His testimony reveals how advertisers and social media platforms systematically excluded conservative voices, leading to a broader crackdown on free speech.
Destiny: “How about banning the abortion pill? That's part of Project 2025. Do you support that part?” [12:24]
Shapiro’s efforts contribute to the disbandment of Garm, effectively dismantling the censorship network. This segment also includes his contentious exchange with Congressman Eric Swalwell, where Shapiro defends his personal views and religious beliefs.
Political Engagements and Debates
Timestamp: [13:05] – [19:39]
Throughout the year, Shapiro is actively involved in political discourse and events. Highlights include:
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Fundraising for President Trump: Shapiro hosts and co-sponsors events supporting Trump, praising his charisma and strategic acumen.
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Interviews with RFK Jr. and Javier Milei: Engaging with RFK Jr., the nominee for Health and Human Services, Shapiro explores public health and government policies. Conversations with Javier Milei, President of Argentina, highlight Milei’s economic reforms and their potential global influence.
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Debates on Various Platforms: Shapiro participates in viral debates on platforms like Jubilee and Free Press, tackling topics from abortion definitions to the impact of DEI. Notable debates include a heated exchange with Sam Harris on the election and Trump’s candidacy.
Sam Harris: “I think we lose sight of just how not normal Trump is as a candidate.” [18:46]
Shapiro also highlights the premiere of “Am I Racist?” by Matt Walsh, celebrating its success and cultural impact.
Election Cycle and Assassination Attempts
Timestamp: [16:35] – [19:39]
The 2024 election cycle is marked by unprecedented events, including two assassination attempts on Donald Trump. Shapiro narrates these harrowing moments, emphasizing their impact on the political landscape and the Republican Party's resilience.
Ben Shapiro: “If Donald Trump had actually been assassinated live on television… can you imagine that?” [13:29]
Despite the chaos, Trump secures victories in key senate races, bolstering Republican optimism.
Final Reflections and Looking Ahead
As the year concludes, Shapiro reflects on the accomplishments and challenges of 2024. He expresses optimism for the future, hinting at major plans for 2025, including the inauguration of a new president and ongoing political endeavors.
Ben Shapiro: “There's all sorts of great stuff coming in the new year. So if you thought 2024 was busy, just wait until 2025.” [19:35]
Conclusion
The episode "A Look Back At 2024 | Ben’s Best Moments" serves as an extensive review of Ben Shapiro's impactful year. Through collaborations, political activism, media interactions, and personal ventures, Shapiro encapsulates a year of significant events and sets the stage for an even more dynamic 2025. This reflection not only highlights his role in shaping conservative discourse but also underscores his commitment to addressing pressing societal issues.
Notable Quotes
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Elon Musk on Free Speech:
“Free speech is the bedrock of democracy and free speech is what allows atrocities to be called out and for people to be aware of them.” [01:53]
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Ben Shapiro on DEI:
“DEI effectively is a conspiracy theory… it is actually illegal because it discriminates on the basis of race, sexual preference, and all sorts of other things.” [02:02]
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Sam Harris on Trump:
“I think we lose sight of just how not normal Trump is as a candidate.” [18:46]
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Ben Shapiro on 2025:
“If you thought 2024 was busy, just wait until 2025.” [19:35]
This summary encapsulates the key moments and discussions from Ben Shapiro's reflective episode, providing an insightful overview for those who have not listened to the full podcast.