Summary of “One Big Beautiful America” – Commentary Magazine Podcast (July 3, 2025)

Introduction and Context

Hosted by John Podhoretz, the “One Big Beautiful America” episode brings together key figures from Commentary Magazine, including Executive Editor Abe Greenwald, Washington Commentary columnist Matthew Continetti, and Social Commentary columnist Christine Rosen. The primary focus centers on the passage of a significant legislative package referred to as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and its implications for conservatism and American politics.

Passage of the "One Big Beautiful Bill"

John Podhoretz opens the discussion by highlighting the successful passage of the bill after a long House session. He references his colleague Matt Continetti’s podcast with Jonah Goldberg on the history of conservatism, setting the stage for a deeper dive into the bill's conservative credentials.

"Does it matter as a practical, philosophical or even political matter that it would not be precise to describe it as a conservative piece of legislation?"
— John Podhoretz [00:49]

Conservative Elements and Policy Analysis

Matthew Continetti analyzes the bill, acknowledging that while it may not be entirely conservative, it contains several components that align with longstanding conservative policies. He emphasizes the permanence of the Trump tax cuts as a key conservative achievement.

"The Trump tax cut of 2017 permanent… conservatives oppose carve outs and special interest deductions in the tax code as a rule."
— Matthew Continetti [04:05]

Tax Policy and Economic Implications

Continetti contrasts the current bill with previous tax policies, noting that the permanence of these tax cuts prevents Democrats from easily raising taxes on higher earners. He critiques provisions like the removal of taxes on tips and overtime, arguing they are more populist than conservative.

"No tax on tips, no tax on overtime. These would not be conservative provisions. They're certainly more populist working-class ones."
— Matthew Continetti [04:05]

Immigration Provisions

The discussion shifts to immigration, where Continetti supports the bill’s stricter border security measures, aligning them with conservative priorities on rule of law and citizenship. However, he acknowledges internal tensions within conservatism regarding these provisions.

"These immigration provisions advance conservative aims about the importance of border security, about the importance of the rule of law, the importance of citizenship."
— Matthew Continetti [06:08]

Welfare and Medicaid Reform

Continetti delves into the bill’s impact on Medicaid, portraying it as welfare reform aimed at limiting benefits to those truly in need. He criticizes the expansion of Medicaid under previous administrations and supports the bill’s efforts to constrain its growth.

"Medicaid should be a targeted program for the elderly in nursing homes and for the working poor… it has become an entitlement program."
— Matthew Continetti [07:27]

Abe Greenwald adds that the bill reflects a shifting Republican coalition increasingly composed of working-class voters, necessitating compromises on traditional conservative principles.

"This bill represents… the very rapidly shifting coalition of voters towards the Republican Party who are more working class… reflected in some of the not traditionally conservative principles of this bill."
— Abe Greenwald [06:08]

Political Strategy and Messaging

Christine Rosen raises concerns about whether the bill aligns with a larger conservative project or if it’s merely a collection of political wins influenced by the MAGA movement. She warns against conflating political victories with genuine conservative philosophy.

"The project seems to be advancing MAGA, which has woven through it all sorts of conservative elements and some very elements that are antithetical to conservatism as well."
— Christine Rosen [09:13]

Podhoretz responds by distinguishing between philosophical conservatism and practical political maneuvers, emphasizing the necessity for political parties to secure victories to maintain relevance and support.

"The conservative party to a different philosophical standard… both parties want to score wins."
— John Podhoretz [10:25]

Praise for Speaker of the House Mike Johnson

A significant portion of the discussion lauds Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, for his effective leadership in passing the bill despite low recognition prior to his tenure. Podhoretz and Greenwald commend his composed and principled approach, contrasting him with previous speakers.

"Mike Johnson sort of seems to have this preternatural ability… I think it's an extraordinary accomplishment."
— Matthew Continetti [35:21]

Greenwald highlights Johnson’s integrity and steady presence as crucial for navigating the narrow Republican majority and complex legislative challenges.

"He is not using Congress as a platform to make himself famous… he is doing what I think the role calls for."
— John Podhoretz [39:26]

Patriotism and America's Identity

The conversation transitions to a broader reflection on American patriotism, especially in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The panelists discuss the importance of fostering national pride and countering narratives that undermine America’s foundational values.

"Love of country is a normal thing… that somehow the liberals and Democrats have completely lost that thread."
— John Podhoretz [52:42]

Christine Rosen and Continetti emphasize the need for a balanced view that respects both the creedal and cultural aspects of American identity, advocating for a renewed celebration of national values.

"We are the oldest, we have survived, and yet we are still the youngest. We are still the most experimental."
— John Podhoretz [34:51]

Future Political Landscape

Continetti and Greenwald explore the potential political gains from the bill, suggesting it positions Republicans favorably for upcoming elections by addressing key issues like taxation, border security, and Medicaid reform. They also speculate on how leaders like J.D. Vance might shape the party’s future stance on patriotism and national identity.

"The Republican Party's coalition is in flux… need to reaffirm the classic patriotism."
— Abe Greenwald [57:27]

Conclusion and Final Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Podhoretz reflects on the significance of the bill’s passage for the Republican Party and American conservatism. He underscores the importance of maintaining national pride and implementing policies that resonate with the evolving voter base.

"Happy 249th birthday of America. And let's all join together in celebrating this march, this on Russian March toward the 250th and with hopes that it will be a transcendent and powerfully meaningful event for this country."
— John Podhoretz [59:42]

Key Takeaways

• The “One Big Beautiful Bill” incorporates both conservative and populist elements, reflecting a shifting Republican coalition.
• Permanent tax cuts and stricter immigration controls are seen as significant conservative victories.
• Medicaid reform is portrayed as necessary welfare reform to prevent misuse of benefits.
• Speaker Mike Johnson receives high praise for his leadership and effective passage of legislation.
• The panel emphasizes the importance of fostering American patriotism in anticipation of the 250th anniversary.
• The bill’s passage is positioned as a strategic advantage for the Republican Party in future elections.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "Does it matter as a practical, philosophical or even political matter that it would not be precise to describe it as a conservative piece of legislation?"
  — John Podhoretz [00:49]

• "Medicaid should be a targeted program for the elderly in nursing homes and for the working poor… it has become an entitlement program."
  — Matthew Continetti [07:27]

• "The project seems to be advancing MAGA, which has woven through it all sorts of conservative elements and some very elements that are antithetical to conservatism as well."
  — Christine Rosen [09:13]

• "Mike Johnson sort of seems to have this preternatural ability… I think it's an extraordinary accomplishment."
  — Matthew Continetti [35:21]

• "Love of country is a normal thing… that somehow the liberals and Democrats have completely lost that thread."
  — John Podhoretz [52:42]

• "Happy 249th birthday of America. And let's all join together in celebrating this march, this on Russian March toward the 250th and with hopes that it will be a transcendent and powerfully meaningful event for this country."
  — John Podhoretz [59:42]

Conclusion

The episode “One Big Beautiful America” offers a comprehensive analysis of the newly passed legislative package, exploring its alignment with conservative principles amidst a changing political landscape. Through insightful discussions, the panel underscores the importance of strategic policy-making, effective leadership, and national pride in shaping the future of American conservatism.