Podcast Summary: "Does New York Have a Cuban Future?" – The Charlie Kirk Show

Introduction

In the July 3, 2025, episode of The Charlie Kirk Show titled "Does New York Have a Cuban Future?", host Charlie Kirk delves into pressing political and economic issues facing America today. The episode features insightful discussions with political analyst Mark Halperin and guest Benny Johnson, focusing on tax policies, income inequality, the rise of socialism in American cities, and the impact of government-run systems, drawing parallels with Cuba's economic model.

Discussion with Mark Halperin: Tax Policies and Income Inequality

Charlie Kirk invites Mark Halperin, editor-in-chief of Two Way TV and host of The Mark Halperin Show, to discuss the complexities surrounding tax legislation and its political ramifications.

• Historical Context of Tax Increases: Halperin reflects on past administrations, noting, “Obama actually passed two pretty big pieces of legislation, stimulus and the auto bailout... [which] had a lot of positives” (03:35). He contrasts this with current efforts, highlighting the partisan nature of recent tax proposals.

• President Trump's Tax Proposal: Kirk questions why Trump's suggestion to raise taxes on high-income earners was "dead on arrival" (07:22). Halperin explains, “...Republicans just feel. We are the low tax party. We just cannot deviate” (08:34), emphasizing the party’s entrenched identity against tax increases.

• Impact on Income Inequality: The conversation shifts to the broader issue of income inequality. Halperin states, “We have income inequality in this country... We need a plan for that” (11:16). He underscores the moral and economic imperatives to address the growing wealth gap, asserting it's a bipartisan concern.

• Balancing Ideology and Economics: Kirk advises against strict ideological stances on economic policies, suggesting a pragmatic approach: “Economics should be a means towards a national end” (12:00). Halperin agrees, advocating for policies that promote economic stability and fairness without rigid adherence to partisan lines.

Interview with Benny Johnson: Lessons from Cuba and the Threat of Socialism

Benny Johnson, host of The Benny Show, shares his experiences from a documentary visit to Cuba, drawing stark comparisons between Cuban socialism and proposed policies in New York City under Mayor Zorhan Mamdani.

• Cuba’s Struggles Under Socialism: Johnson vividly describes the deteriorating conditions in Havana, stating, “It's like going through ruins... Socialism is popular in America now. What do you think of socialism?” (21:09). He highlights the inefficiencies of government-run grocery stores, where “every single item there was just government owned stamps on everything” (21:31).

• Threat to New York City: Drawing parallels, Johnson warns of Mamdani’s policies in New York, suggesting they mirror Cuba’s failed socialist model. He raises concerns about Mamdani’s proposals to tax individuals based on skin color, which he claims could lead to significant economic and social issues (30:15).

• Critique of AOC’s Authenticity: The conversation shifts to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), with Johnson challenging her working-class credentials. He asserts, “she was raised in a leafy, clean and beautiful suburb... she is a total and complete fraud” (27:08), questioning the authenticity of her persona and its influence on her political stance.

• Combating Rising Socialism: Johnson echoes Trump's stance, stating, “Trump told me yesterday he's just going to put him [Mamdani] in jail” (30:15). However, he admits uncertainty about effectively countering these policies, emphasizing the need for robust Republican strategies to prevent the spread of socialist ideologies.

Promotion of TurningPoint USA Events: Student Action Summit

Throughout the episode, Charlie Kirk promotes the upcoming Student Action Summit (SAS2025.com) in Tampa, Florida, highlighting its significance as a pivotal event for conservative youth and activists. Notable speakers include Pete Hegseth, Kristi Noem, Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Donald Trump Jr., and Steve Bannon, among others. Kirk emphasizes the summit as a platform for unity, conviction, and action within the movement.

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with reflections on America's economic future and the importance of grassroots activism in combating rising socialist trends. Benny Johnson reiterates the strength and resilience of the conservative movement, stating, “...we answer to you, the American people. And it's our great honor to do that” (36:41). Kirk encourages listeners to engage with TurningPoint USA and participate in upcoming events to support the movement's goals.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Halperin (03:35): “Obama actually passed two pretty big pieces of legislation, stimulus and the auto bailout... [which] had a lot of positives.”

• Charlie Kirk (07:22): “President Trump's original solution was, look, we should raise taxes on high income earners. But Mark, just remind our audience that was so dead on arrival once it hit the House and the Senate.”

• Mark Halperin (11:16): “We have income inequality in this country... We need a plan for that.”

• Benny Johnson (21:09): “Socialism is popular in America now. What do you think of socialism?”

• Benny Johnson (27:08): “She is a total and complete fraud. The working class Bronx girl is a liar.”

• Benny Johnson (30:15): “Mamdani is proposing multiple policies that are patently illegal... Mamdani wants to tax people based on their skin color.”

• Charlie Kirk (36:41): “...we answer to you, the American people. And it's our great honor to do that.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Charlie Kirk Show provides a critical examination of current political and economic challenges, emphasizing the need for conservative leadership to address income inequality and prevent the rise of socialism in American cities. Through engaging discussions with Mark Halperin and Benny Johnson, Kirk underscores the importance of grassroots activism and strategic policy-making in shaping America's future.