The David Pakman Show: June 10, 2025 – "Marines Deployed, De Facto Martial Law, US No Longer Stable"
Hosted by David Pakman, this episode delves into the escalating political and social turmoil in the United States, focusing on the deployment of military forces in Los Angeles, the ensuing legal battles, and the broader implications for American democracy.
1. Introduction: A Nation in Crisis
David Pakman opens the show with a sarcastic remark, highlighting the severe instability plaguing the United States. He sets the tone for a grim discussion about unprecedented governmental actions and societal unrest.
[00:07] David Pakman: "It's one of the darkest people periods certainly that I can remember ever covering what is taking place in the United States."
2. Deployment of Marines and National Guard in Los Angeles
Pakman discusses the alarming decision by the Trump administration to deploy approximately 700 active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton to Los Angeles. This move, aimed at restoring order amid widespread protests, bypasses the standard protocol of state authorization.
[00:07] David Pakman: "The Trump administration is now escalated by deploying the Marines in Los Angeles, California."
He criticizes the justification provided by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who stated that local police efforts were insufficient to manage the protests.
[02:15] Pete Hegseth (paraphrased): "Due to increased threats to federal law enforcement officers and Federal Buildings, approximately 700 active duty US Marines... are being deployed to Los Angeles to restore order."
3. Governor Gavin Newsom's Response and Legal Action
Governor Gavin Newsom vehemently opposes the federal deployment, labeling it an unconstitutional overreach and an abuse of power. In response, California has filed a lawsuit against President Trump, challenging the legality of deploying military forces without state consent.
[06:45] David Pakman: "Governor Gavin Newsom is saying these Marines should not be used as political pawns, that this is a blatant abuse of power. He is suing."
4. Incident Involving CNN Reporter Jason Carroll
A pivotal moment in the episode is the live detention of CNN correspondent Jason Carroll by federal forces during the protests. Pakman emphasizes the gravity of the situation, where a journalist is stripped of their ability to report freely.
[07:20] David Pakman: "This is the United States of America in June 2025."
The transcript captures Carroll's live interrogation and eventual removal:
[07:30] Jason Carroll: "Am I being arrested?"
[07:44] Gavin Newsom (presumably): "You can't come back."
[07:46] David Pakman: "If you come back, then you go."
Pakman interprets this as a fundamental attack on the First Amendment and press freedom, signaling a shift towards authoritarianism.
5. Authoritarian Overtones and Escalation of Power
Pakman draws parallels between the current events and historical instances of government overreach, notably the 1992 Rodney King riots where federal troops were deployed with state approval. He underscores the unprecedented nature of the 2025 deployment, which lacks state authorization and disregards local governance.
[19:25] David Pakman: "California has sued Donald Trump for deploying thousands of National Guard troops to Los Angeles without permission."
6. Trump's Remarks and the Threat to Arrest Governor Newsom
In a forcible assertion of power, President Trump publicly threatens the arrest of Governor Newsom, further blurring the lines between military authority and political vendetta.
[24:50] Donald Trump: "He's done a terrible job."
[25:18] David Pakman: "What crime did Newsom commit? He ran for governor."
Trump's rhetoric exemplifies a disregard for constitutional norms and democratic principles, leveraging military power for political gain.
7. Conflict Between Trump and Elon Musk
The show explores the deteriorating relationship between President Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk. Initially allies, their relationship has soured, with Trump now threatening Musk with severe consequences should he support Democratic initiatives.
[47:00] David Pakman: "Trump is openly warning Elon Musk if he gives money to Democrats, there will be, quote, very serious consequences."
This conflict signifies a broader disintegration within the MAGA coalition, highlighting the fragility of political alliances in the current climate.
8. Speculation on President Trump's Health
Pakman addresses rampant speculation about Trump's health, fueled by ambiguous photographs and lack of transparency from the White House. He critically examines public and media reactions to these speculations.
[61:30] David Pakman: "The appearance of pant legs kind of gathered around some kind of device fueled a lot of speculation."
Pakman stresses the importance of transparency, questioning whether the administration would ever disclose genuine health concerns.
9. Legal and Constitutional Implications
The episode delves into the legal battles arising from the deployment of federal troops, emphasizing the violation of the Tenth Amendment and the separation of powers. Pakman quotes the lawsuit filed by California officials:
[24:55] David Pakman: "This is an inflammatory escalation unsupported by conditions on the ground."
10. Conclusion: A Call to Action
Pakman concludes by framing the current situation as a "dry run for martial law," urging listeners to recognize and resist the encroachment on democratic institutions. He warns of the long-term consequences if such authoritarian measures go unchecked.
[58:10] David Pakman: "We have to fight every single one of these battles on all fronts."
He emphasizes the urgency of mobilizing against these authoritarian tendencies to preserve the foundational principles of the United States.
Key Takeaways:
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Military Overreach: The deployment of active-duty Marines to Los Angeles without state consent marks a significant breach of constitutional norms.
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Erosion of Press Freedom: The detention of journalist Jason Carroll exemplifies the suppression of free press and dissent.
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Authoritarian Drift: President Trump's actions and rhetoric indicate a shift towards authoritarianism, undermining democratic institutions.
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Internal Political Conflicts: The falling out between Trump and Elon Musk reflects broader instability within political alliances.
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Health Transparency Issues: Speculations about Trump's health highlight concerns over governmental transparency and the manipulation of public perception.
This episode serves as a critical examination of the current state of American politics, warning of a potential slide into authoritarianism and calling for immediate action to safeguard democratic values.
