Podcast Summary: The Commentary Magazine Podcast – "Nihilists on Parade"
Episode Information:
- Title: Nihilists on Parade
- Release Date: June 11, 2025
- Host/Author: Commentary Magazine
- Description: Commentary is America's premier monthly magazine of opinion: General, yet Jewish. Highly variegated, with a unifying perspective. Listen to The Commentary Magazine Podcast, along with more than 40 other original podcasts, at Ricochet.com. No paid subscription required.
Overview
In the June 11, 2025 episode of The Commentary Magazine Podcast titled "Nihilists on Parade," host Noah Rothman, along with panelists Seth Mandel, John Podhoretz, Matthew Continetti, and Abe Greenwald, delves into the tumultuous state of American politics. The discussion centers around the rising nihilistic tendencies within the Democratic Party, the internal conflicts exacerbated by external pressures such as Governor Gavin Newsom's recent actions, and the broader implications for upcoming elections.
1. Personal Anecdotes and Opening Remarks
Noah Rothman opens the episode with a heartfelt personal story, celebrating his daughter Shayna’s 21st birthday. This personal touch sets a reflective tone before transitioning to the episode's main political discourse.
Notable Quote:
- Noah Rothman [00:25]: "It's awe-inspiring, and it reminds you of the wonders of being alive and the miracle that it is to be alive and to get to a moment like this."
2. California's Political Turmoil
The conversation shifts to California, focusing on Governor Gavin Newsom's recent speech and actions. Rothman criticizes the Governor's portrayal of Donald Trump and the implications of activating the National Guard.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Rothman [03:58]: "Trump is now activated, you know, essentially the shock troops of his authoritarian revolution."
- Seth Mandel [05:43]: "There's a French Laundry joke in there somewhere..."
The panelists discuss the symbolic imagery in Newsom's speech, such as the California flag's bear seemingly attacking, and debate the effectiveness and motivations behind the Governor's stance against Trump.
3. Internal Struggles Within the Democratic Party
The panelists explore the Democratic Party's internal conflicts, particularly the tension between progressive elements and more moderate members. Rothman highlights the emergence of figures like Cory Booker and Gavin Newsom as symbols of this discord.
Notable Quotes:
- Matthew Continetti [05:43]: "Very authoritarian of her. Very authoritarian."
- Noah Rothman [07:08]: "Remember, they were terrible in the year that the Democrats won in 2020."
The discussion points to the Democratic Party's inability to reconcile differing ideologies, leading to a fragmented front that struggles to present a cohesive policy agenda.
4. The Rise of Nihilism in Left-Wing Movements
A significant portion of the episode addresses the rise of nihilistic attitudes within left-wing movements, characterized by destructive protests and anti-establishment sentiments. The panelists express concern over the potential for these movements to undermine democratic institutions.
Notable Quotes:
- Matthew Continetti [33:36]: "It's a very alarming trend and should be opposed."
- Noah Rothman [35:36]: "Public is screaming what it thinks."
This segment underscores the dangers of nihilism, emphasizing how it erodes trust in governance and promotes chaos over constructive political discourse.
5. Tulsi Gabbard's Controversial Video
The panelists analyze a provocative video released by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, which criticizes the United States' historical and current military actions. They debate the video's implications for national security and its reception among different political factions.
Notable Quotes:
- Matthew Continetti [61:33]: "Her visit [...] was the peg for this three-minute long, slickly produced video..."
- John Podhoretz [68:07]: "We need to start celebrating that."
Gabbard's video is portrayed as a reflection of deep-seated anti-nationalist sentiments that pose a threat to America's global standing and internal solidarity.
6. Implications for Future Elections
Looking ahead, the panelists discuss how the current political climate may influence upcoming elections, particularly focusing on gubernatorial races like New Jersey's. The instability within the Democratic Party is seen as a potential advantage for Republican candidates.
Notable Quotes:
- Seth Mandel [53:14]: "She will be an extraordinary test case."
- Matthew Continetti [70:05]: "This is maybe the worst thing I think he's ever said openly."
The analysis suggests that Democratic candidates may struggle to unify their base, making them vulnerable in swing states and competitive districts.
7. The Decline of Political Parties' Authority
The conversation culminates with the panelists reflecting on the erosion of centralized authority within major political parties. This decline has led to an increase in extreme positions and a weakening of traditional party structures.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Rothman [57:28]: "The central point is Tulsi Gabbard is attacking the United States..."
- John Podhoretz [26:44]: "He tacks in the other direction and says, oh no, no, we're going to defend flouting the law and breaking the law."
They argue that without strong party leadership, both Democrats and Republicans are more susceptible to internal fragmentation and external manipulation.
Conclusion
In "Nihilists on Parade," The Commentary Magazine Podcast provides a critical examination of the current state of American politics, highlighting the internal strife within the Democratic Party, the rise of nihilistic movements on the left, and the challenges these pose to democratic institutions and future elections. The panelists emphasize the need for cohesive leadership and realistic policy-making to address the nation's pressing issues effectively.
Final Notable Quote:
- Noah Rothman [69:38]: "And so I'm saying this, you can have something a little honorable about that and B, Republicans are going to dominate the politics of this country for an entire generation."
Key Takeaways:
- Internal Conflicts: The Democratic Party is grappling with ideological splits, hindering its ability to present a unified front.
- Nihilism on the Left: Rising destructive protest movements threaten democratic stability and promote chaos over constructive change.
- Impact of Leadership: Figures like Gavin Newsom and Tulsi Gabbard exemplify the challenges of balancing progressive ideals with pragmatic governance.
- Future Elections: The current political turbulence may benefit Republican candidates in upcoming elections due to Democratic fragmentation.
- Erosion of Party Authority: The weakening centralized control within major parties leads to increased extremism and instability.
Presented by:
The Commentary Magazine Podcast
Available on Ricochet.com and other major podcast platforms.