The Commentary Magazine Podcast: "The Conspiracists Have Their Day" - Detailed Summary

Release Date: January 31, 2025

Introduction and Main Theme

In the January 31, 2025 episode of The Commentary Magazine Podcast, host John Podhoretz sets the stage for a critical discussion on the proliferation and acceptance of conspiracy theories amidst recent national disasters. Joined by executive editor Abe Greenwald, social commentary columnist Christine Rosen, senior editor Seth Mandel, and special guest James B. Meggs, the panel delves into how conspiracy theories have infiltrated public discourse and influenced political dynamics in the United States.

Current Events and Rise of Conspiracy Theories

Podhoretz begins by highlighting several recent disasters, including wildfires, a midair collision in Washington D.C., and drone incidents in New Jersey. He points out the administration’s struggle to quell public fear and skepticism regarding these events. Notably, when White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt clarified that the New Jersey drone attack was a U.S. military experiment, it inadvertently fueled conspiracy theories.

John Podhoretz [01:40]: "Why is the administration struggling to reassure the public... which was a conspiracy theory that started to develop that got nipped in the bud by Trump."

COVID-19 Lab Leak Theory and Suppression

The conversation shifts to the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically the debate over its origins. Meggs recounts how the lab leak theory gained traction despite official suppression efforts, underscoring the challenges in countering such theories once they take hold.

James B. Meggs [04:17]: "We've given the permission structure for everybody to throw out any theory they feel like immediately upon any incident."

Podhoretz adds that Commentary Magazine had been advocating for the lab leak perspective, suggesting it was a legitimate conspiracy that was unfairly dismissed by mainstream narratives.

John Podhoretz [05:50]: "There was there was a conspiracy to say that it was a conspiracy theory... and it was incredibly effective for at least a year."

RFK Jr.'s Nomination and Conspiracy Issues

The discussion pivots to the political arena, focusing on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination for Health and Human Services Secretary. Podhoretz criticizes Kennedy for promoting unfounded conspiracy theories about vaccines, questioning his suitability for a high-ranking government position.

John Podhoretz [12:08]: "...RFK Jr coming along saying, wow, this does seem to be engineered to make sure that Ashkenazic Jews don't get it."

Tulsi Gabbard’s Position and Challenges

Seth Mandel and Christine Rosen express concerns over Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination, highlighting her faltering during congressional hearings, particularly regarding her stance on Edward Snowden and vaccine conspiracies.

Christine Rosen [22:14]: "When questioned about her questioning of a particular instance... she was asserting that it wasn't Assad based on reading cranks."

Rosen emphasizes that Gabbard's inability to decisively label Snowden a traitor undermines her credibility and suitability for the role.

Trump’s Influence on Conspiracy Theories and Federal Policies

The panel examines former President Donald Trump's role in normalizing conspiracy theories. Podhoretz argues that Trump's impulsive statements, such as linking DEI policies to aviation accidents, serve to validate and amplify conspiratorial thinking among his base.

Ryan Reynolds [39:27]: "He exists at the realm of the performative on all of these questions... he's happy to embrace these very recent converts from the Democratic Party like RFK Jr."

Meggs elaborates on how Trump's background in New York real estate—a zero-sum environment—might predispose him to view politics through a conspiratorial lens.

James B. Meggs [39:27]: "One is a person, whom you see three times a week wins. And so this leads to conspiracy theorizing because there are conspiracies."

Effects on National Competence and Safety

The discussion highlights the tension between diversity initiatives and operational competence within federal agencies, particularly the FAA. The panelists express concern that prioritizing diversity over merit could compromise national safety, exemplified by the recent air traffic control disaster.

John Podhoretz [44:19]: "...prioritize X, it means in some sense you're going to deprioritize Y."

Meggs provides a detailed account of how DEI policies may have contributed to understaffing and inadequate training within the FAA, increasing the likelihood of human error.

James B. Meggs [39:27]: "...the tower at Reagan was not only understaffed..."

2020 Election and Biden's Conspiracy Issues

The conversation returns to the 2020 election, focusing on alleged conspiracies by the Biden campaign to suppress damaging information about Hunter Biden. Podhoretz criticizes media and tech companies for their alleged collusion in attempting to undermine Trump's reelection efforts, further fueling public distrust.

John Podhoretz [59:02]: "...they participated in illicit efforts to get him out of American public life, they're now literally doing emoluments to get themselves right."

Reynolds adds that such actions intensify existing conspiracy theories about election fraud and governmental manipulation.

Ryan Reynolds [60:34]: "...they were easily dupes. And they're national. They're supposed to be professional."

Reflections and Conclusions

As the episode draws to a close, the panel reflects on the broader implications of widespread conspiracy belief systems. They caution that the erosion of trust in governmental institutions and expertise undermines national solidarity and effective governance.

John Podhoretz [52:52]: "...this is exactly what will undermine long term efforts to really shift some of these conversations in a direction that if you're conservative... you want to see the country move."

Cultural Segment: Movie Recommendation

In a lighter yet still relevant segment, Christine Rosen recommends the 1962 cult film The World's Greatest Sinner. Despite acknowledging its poor construction, Rosen praises its prophetic themes and suggests it as a fascinating historical document that echoes contemporary societal issues.

Christine Rosen [65:35]: "It is completely riveting, somewhat grotesque... Martin Scorsese is also a fan."

Closing Remarks

John Podhoretz wraps up the episode by urging listeners to engage thoughtfully with the content discussed, emphasizing the importance of discerning truth amidst a sea of conspiracy theories. The panel maintains a somber tone, reflecting the gravity of the topics covered and the potential long-term impact on American society and governance.

John Podhoretz [65:35]: "...keep the candle burning."

Notable Quotes with Speaker Attribution:

• John Podhoretz [05:50]:

  "There was a conspiracy to say that it was a conspiracy theory... and it was incredibly effective for at least a year."

• Christine Rosen [22:14]:

  "When questioned about her questioning of a particular instance... she was asserting that it wasn't Assad based on reading cranks."

• Ryan Reynolds [39:27]:

  "He exists at the realm of the performative on all of these questions... he's happy to embrace these very recent converts from the Democratic Party like RFK Jr."

• James B. Meggs [39:27]:

  "One is a person, whom you see three times a week wins. And so this leads to conspiracy theorizing because there are conspiracies."

• John Podhoretz [44:19]:

  "...prioritize X, it means in some sense you're going to deprioritize Y."

• Christine Rosen [65:35]:

  "It is completely riveting, somewhat grotesque... Martin Scorsese is also a fan."

Conclusion

The episode "The Conspiracists Have Their Day" provides a comprehensive analysis of the entrenchment of conspiracy theories in American politics and society. Through incisive dialogue, the panel underscores the detrimental effects of such beliefs on national security, governance, and public trust. The discussion serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining a well-informed and cohesive society amid pervasive misinformation.