The Commentary Magazine Podcast: "Trump the Neocon?"

Release Date: July 8, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Trump the Neocon?", John Podhoretz, Matthew Continetti, and Abe Greenwald delve deep into the complexities of former President Donald Trump's foreign policy legacy, particularly in relation to neoconservatism. The discussion navigates through Trump's interactions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his stance on Iran and Russia, and the evolving dynamics within the MAGA movement.

1. Trump’s Foreign Policy and Relationship with Netanyahu

The conversation opens with Podhoretz highlighting a recent White House meeting between Trump and Netanyahu. He notes Trump's consistent support for Israel and compares his relationship with Netanyahu to historical alliances such as that between Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher.

John Podhoretz [06:34]: "The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu is similar to the relationship between Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher or even FDR and Winston Churchill. It is an extremely tight relationship. They seem to have not only genuine affection but similar worldviews with one another."

Matthew Continetti adds that Netanyahu has been visiting the White House more frequently than any other world leader, emphasizing the strength of their alliance.

Matthew Continetti [10:30]: "BB Biden is a big figure too. He's visited the White House now three times in six months. That's more trips than any other world leader."

Abe Greenwald reinforces the notion by pointing out the widespread admiration for Trump among Israelis, including those advocating for an end to the war and the return of hostages.

Abe Greenwald [14:31]: "There's an incredible groundswell of affection for Trump there as well."

2. Ceasefire and the Future for Gaza

Podhoretz discusses the administration's approach to Gaza, referencing a plan dubbed "Mara Gaza," which suggests relocating the population of Gaza to secure areas to eliminate Hamas's influence.

John Podhoretz [07:32]: "It now appears that the Trump administration is all in on its own proposal to say not only can't Hamas remain in power, but the lives of Gazans are going to be changed in order for Israel to achieve the security that it needs."

Continetti highlights the complexities of negotiating with Hamas, noting that Israel has set non-negotiable terms, such as the corridor and a permanent end to hostilities post-ceasefire.

Matthew Continetti [14:31]: "Israel can't agree to either of those titles."

Abe Greenwald adds perspective on Israel's internal dynamics, suggesting that Netanyahu's strategies have garnered additional domestic support, even among those who may oppose him politically.

Abe Greenwald [15:19]: "Trump is universally popular in Israel because they're giving him credit for the Iran strike and helping get hostages out."

3. Comparison with Reagan’s Foreign Policy

The hosts draw parallels between Trump's actions and those of President Ronald Reagan, particularly in the use of military force to achieve strategic objectives without extensive ground deployments.

John Podhoretz [28:31]: "The problem with the 'you want to make peace, prepare for war,' which is what Trump learned with Iran, is that you prepare for war to make peace, and then if it's clear that the belligerent on the other side has no interest in standing down because of your preparations, you either have to act or look impotent."

Matthew Continetti contrasts Reagan's ideologically driven human rights agenda with Trump's more realistic, albeit aggressive, approach focusing on national greatness and prosperity.

Matthew Continetti [30:54]: "Reagan was extremely reluctant to deploy U.S. forces. He was very reluctant, however, with Donald Trump, he's willing to use it."

4. Internal MAGA Dynamics and Future Challenges

The discussion transitions to internal challenges within the MAGA movement. Continetti warns of potential primary challengers like J.D. Vance in the 2028 Republican primaries, especially if immigration reforms occur.

Matthew Continetti [49:48]: "On immigration, Trump has also always been clear. Right now, if you listen to MAGA folks, there is a great deal of worry over some type of immigration reform."

Podhoretz echoes these sentiments, suggesting that internal factions may seek to challenge Trump's dominance within the party.

John Podhoretz [52:07]: "No matter what, there's going to be some sort of MAGA plus challenge to MAGA in the future."

5. The Epstein Case and Its Implications

A significant portion of the episode addresses the controversial death of Jeffrey Epstein. The hosts express skepticism towards official statements dismissing conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein's demise.

John Podhoretz [72:20]: "If anything deserves a conspiracy theory to have arisen around it, it is the Jeffrey Epstein story."

Continetti discusses the political fallout within the administration, particularly surrounding Attorney General Pam Bondi, and the broader implications for public trust.

Matthew Continetti [75:05]: "And the truth, you're absolutely right. The evidence is he hanged himself."

6. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and NATO

While not deeply explored, the conversation briefly touches upon other international figures like Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and their interactions with NATO, highlighting the multifaceted nature of global alliances and conflicts.

7. Trump’s Approach to Ukraine and Russia

The hosts analyze Trump's stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing his frustration with Putin's intransigence and the resumption of defensive weapon shipments to Ukraine under his administration.

Matthew Continetti [65:41]: "Putin's not doing it. And he, it took him until this week, maybe, and maybe he'll change his tune next week. So maybe I'm wrong to say he's not negotiating in good faith."

Podhoretz underscores the long-term perspective on the conflict, suggesting that the eventual outcome will reveal Putin's miscalculations.

John Podhoretz [86:38]: "This is an Israel-first foreign policy. Tucker Carlson and suck on it, buddy."

Conclusion

The episode "Trump the Neocon?" offers a comprehensive examination of Donald Trump's foreign policy legacy, drawing historical parallels and assessing current geopolitical strategies. Through insightful discussions, Podhoretz, Continetti, and Greenwald provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between domestic political factions and international relations under Trump's influence.

Notable Quotes:

• John Podhoretz [06:34]: "The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu is similar to the relationship between Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher or even FDR and Winston Churchill."

• Matthew Continetti [14:31]: "Israel can't agree to either of those titles."

• Abe Greenwald [15:19]: "Trump is universally popular in Israel because they're giving him credit for the Iran strike and helping get hostages out."

• John Podhoretz [28:31]: "If you want to make peace, prepare for war."

• John Podhoretz [72:20]: "If anything deserves a conspiracy theory to have arisen around it, it is the Jeffrey Epstein story."

This episode serves as an essential listen for those interested in understanding the evolving dynamics of American foreign policy, the enduring ties between Trump and Israeli leadership, and the internal challenges facing the MAGA movement as they navigate a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.