Summary of "Gaetz Tulsi RFK: An Infernal Golden Braid" – The Commentary Magazine Podcast

Release Date: November 14, 2024
Host: John Podhoretz, Editor of Commentary Magazine
Participants: Christine Rosen, Matthew Continetti, Seth Mandel, Abe Greenwald

Introduction

The episode titled "Gaetz Tulsi RFK: An Infernal Golden Braid" delves into the intricate and controversial landscape of recent political nominations, notably focusing on Matt Gaetz’s potential appointment as Attorney General and Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination for Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Hosted by John Podhoretz, the discussion features Commentary Magazine’s prominent columnists and editors, including Christine Rosen, Matthew Continetti, Seth Mandel, and Abe Greenwald.

Notable Quotes:

• John Podhoretz [00:52]: "Hope for the best. Welcome to the Commentary Magazine daily podcast."
• Christine Rosen [01:56]: "If you know what painting that is."

Matt Gaetz’s Nomination for Attorney General

Overview: Matthew Continetti initiates the discussion by highlighting the contentious nature of Matt Gaetz’s nomination for Attorney General. Continetti references online commentary, noting critiques from figures like Mickey Kaus and Senator John Fetterman, who describes Gaetz as "God tier level trolling of the United States Senate by President Trump" ([03:20]). He underscores the political maneuvering involved, particularly the Senate’s potential to block the nomination through a vice-presidential tie-breaker if up to three senators oppose it ([04:50]).

Senate Dynamics: Continetti elaborates on the Senate’s reaction, pointing out John Thune’s election as Senate leader, which signals a more establishment-friendly approach that might not uniformly support Gaetz. He also references likability and internal Senate politics, mentioning Rick Scott’s lack of support despite his MAGA alignment ([05:33]).

John Podhoretz’s Insights: Podhoretz discusses personal attacks against Gaetz, citing comments from Senator Mark Wayne Mullins about Gaetz’s behavior and character ([07:44]). He argues that Gaetz’s polarizing nature extends beyond MAGA support, affecting his standing in broader Republican circles.

Seth Mandel’s Critique: Seth Mandel criticizes Gaetz’s capability to manage the vast Department of Justice (DOJ), labeling him a "rodeo clown" who lacks strategic experience and comparing his performative attitudes to those of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ([08:55]). Mandel doubts Gaetz’s ability to effectively lead such a critical department, emphasizing his abrasive nature and lack of management skills ([09:20]).

Abe Greenwald’s Perspective: Abe Greenwald reflects on Trump’s integration of performative aspects with policy, suggesting that Trump’s nomination of Gaetz represents a fusion of theatrics and governance rather than a strategic appointment ([10:24]).

Notable Quotes:

• Matthew Continetti [03:20]: "Vote for Gates. So let's just go down the whip count."
• Seth Mandel [08:55]: "He brought down a speaker, but then when it was time to find someone to replace him, he's like, eh."

Tulsi Gabbard’s Nomination for Director of National Intelligence

Overview: The discussion shifts to Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination for DNI. Continetti describes her as "the most dovish national security pick" and critiques her past positions, including her perceived apologism for the Assad regime and perceived sympathies towards Russia ([40:07]). He acknowledges her communication skills but questions her suitability for the role given her controversial statements and lack of traditional intelligence background.

Role and Power of DNI: John Podhoretz provides an analysis of the DNI’s role, emphasizing its coordinating function among various intelligence agencies without significant enforcement powers. He suggests that Gabbard’s position, while symbolically significant, may lack substantive influence due to the bureaucratic limitations inherent in the role ([43:40]).

Christine Rosen’s Concerns: Christine Rosen raises alarms about Gabbard’s stance on antisemitism, particularly her opposition to the IHRA definition of antisemitism. She fears that Gabbard may undermine civil rights protections for Jews on campuses, aligning her with figures like Candace Owens who dismiss such definitions as threats to free speech ([24:07]).

Seth Mandel’s Doubts: Mandel questions Gabbard’s qualifications and security clearance eligibility, citing her past claims of being on the no-fly list and her controversial visits to Syria. He doubts her capability to perform the duties required by the DNI role effectively ([46:41]).

Matthew Continetti’s Final Thoughts: Continetti underscores the multifaceted responsibilities of the DOJ, highlighting that Gabbard will need to address a wide array of issues beyond her polarizing foreign policy views. He emphasizes the importance of her upcoming confirmation hearings to address these competencies ([25:08]).

Notable Quotes:

• Christine Rosen [16:19]: "I need to hear from him that he is committed to fighting antisemitism on American campuses."
• Seth Mandel [44:15]: "This is not someone with the management or strategic experience to clean house in a department."

Trump’s Confirmation Strategy and Political Maneuvering

Trump’s Historical Context: Podhoretz and Continetti discuss Trump’s historical patterns in handling nominations, comparing Matt Gaetz’s potential confirmation battle to previous appointments like Brett Kavanaugh. They debate whether Trump will actively defend Gaetz or distance himself based on past behaviors, such as his reluctance to back former Attorney General Bill Barr vehemently ([36:15]).

Potential Outcomes: The hosts consider various scenarios, including the possibility that Gaetz or Gabbard might not contend effectively in confirmation hearings, especially if they fail to adequately address senators' concerns. Podhoretz speculates that Trump might withdraw the nomination if negative information surfaces during the hearings ([32:16]).

Internal MAGA Dynamics: Mandel and Continetti reflect on internal MAGA politics, noting that certain loyalists like Mitch McConnell may not support all of Trump’s controversial nominees. This internal dissent could play a significant role in the confirmation outcomes ([34:19]).

Notable Quotes:

• John Podhoretz [16:19]: "I do hope that when Gates comes before the Judiciary Committee for his confirmation hearing that one of the senators brings this question up."
• Matthew Continetti [22:18]: "Please, get Matt Gaetz, Tulsi Gabbard, these nominations are not going to be easy lifts."

Policy Issues and Antisemitism Concerns

IHRA Definition of Antisemitism: A significant portion of the discussion centers on the IHRA definition of antisemitism and Gaetz’s potential opposition to it. Rosen explains how opposing such definitions could signal a broader neglect of civil rights protections for Jewish Americans and critique Gabbard’s stances as reflections of Trump’s distrust towards bureaucratic institutions ([22:22]; [28:30]).

Implications for Civil Rights: Christine Rosen emphasizes the broader implications of Gaetz’s opposition, suggesting that it may lead to the DOJ undermining existing civil rights frameworks designed to protect minority groups ([26:01]).

Notable Quotes:

• John Podhoretz [28:20]: "That’s a very radical thing to say. It is a very radical."
• Christine Rosen [28:31]: "He’s intended to be nominated to replace Merrick Garland."

Final Thoughts and Broader Political Reflections

Cultural Commentary: The latter part of the episode transitions into broader cultural reflections, including a discussion on the "Sopranos" documentary. The hosts draw parallels between the show's themes and contemporary political climates, particularly in relation to leadership and moral ambiguity.

Predictions and Recommendations: Continetti recommends the documentary “Difficult Men” by Brett Martin, which explores the rise of complex, often flawed male protagonists in late 90s television and their cultural implications, drawing connections to current political figures and sentiments ([60:11]).

Closure: The episode wraps up with reflections on Trump's influence on Washington, the unpredictable nature of his nominations, and the ongoing cultural and political shifts shaping the current landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Matthew Continetti [62:25]: "I was reassured by that. And finally, there was a great SNL clip in this documentary..."
• John Podhoretz [58:56]: "If you think that Trump is going to institute a fascist regime. Why aren't you getting in your car and driving to Canada?"

Conclusions and Insights

The episode "Gaetz Tulsi RFK: An Infernal Golden Braid" offers a comprehensive exploration of the complexities surrounding recent high-profile political nominations. Through incisive commentary and robust debate, the hosts dissect the potential ramifications of appointing figures like Matt Gaetz and Tulsi Gabbard to pivotal government roles. Key takeaways include:

1. Polarization and Confirmation Challenges: Gaetz’s and Gabbard’s nominations are emblematic of the broader polarization within the Senate and government, highlighting the significant hurdles they face in securing confirmation.

2. Impact of Leadership Styles: The contrasting leadership styles and capabilities of nominees are scrutinized, with concerns raised about their ability to effectively manage and oversee critical departments like the DOJ and DNI.

3. Policy Implications: The discussion underscores the potential policy shifts that could arise from these nominations, particularly regarding civil rights protections and national security strategies.

4. Cultural and Political Parallels: The hosts draw meaningful parallels between cultural productions like "The Sopranos" and current political dynamics, suggesting that media and politics are increasingly intertwined in shaping public perception and policy.

5. Future Political Landscape: Predictions indicate continued turbulence and uncertainty in the political arena, driven by contentious nominations and shifting power structures within the Senate and broader government institutions.

Overall, the episode provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the intricate web of political maneuvers, ideological battles, and personal dynamics that define the current state of American governance.

Final Notable Quote:

• John Podhoretz [55:38]: "The look on Biden's face. I don't think that you can question now that this was a coup..."

End of Summary