Podcast Summary: The Glenn Beck Program Episode: Is DC Ignoring Trump’s Jan. 6 Pardons?! Guests: Senator Mike Lee & Alan Dershowitz
Release Date: January 21, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Glenn Beck Program, hosted by the Blaze Podcast Network, Glenn Beck delves into the controversial topic of former President Donald Trump's pardons issued for individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot. Joining him are Senator Mike Lee from Utah and renowned Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz. The discussion centers on the District of Columbia's apparent inaction regarding these pardons, the implications for American justice, and the broader political and social ramifications.

DC's Response to Trump's Jan 6 Pardons

Glenn Beck initiates the conversation by highlighting what he perceives as DC's disregard for Trump's pardons related to the January 6th events. He expresses frustration over the lack of immediate releases despite the official pardons being in place.

Glenn Beck [44:43]: "DC's government has no right to exist constitutionally. Congress shouldn't have delegated its lawmaking authority over DC. It's time to take it back."

Senator Mike Lee elaborates on the constitutional basis for DC's lack of autonomy and criticizes the local government's handling of the pardons.

Sen. Mike Lee [45:14]: "Trump's directive was that they were to be released immediately... So we're still trying to get names, numbers, and verify that this is how this is happening, but from what we can tell, they haven't complied with it yet."

The discussion underscores the tension between federal directives and DC's local administration, with Beck and Lee advocating for the repeal of DC home rule to restore Congressional authority.

Legislative and Legal Perspectives on Pardons

Alan Dershowitz joins the conversation to provide a legal analysis of the pardons. He expresses concern over the precedent set by issuing blanket pardons, particularly for individuals who may not have been formally charged with crimes.

Alan Dershowitz [65:34]: "If we can end lawfare, then we may see an end to these promiscuous use of pardons as well..."

Dershowitz contrasts Biden's pardons with historical precedents, questioning the motivations and implications of such actions. He emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in the justice system.

Alan Dershowitz [72:04]: "The Constitution doesn't mention executive orders. It just gives power to the President and allows him to have that power."

The guests discuss the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress, with a consensus on the need for more checks and balances to prevent potential abuses of pardon powers.

Media Critique and Its Role

Throughout the episode, Glenn Beck and his co-host Stu Burguiere critique mainstream media outlets, particularly CNN and MSNBC, accusing them of bias and inefficiency in reporting on the pardons and other political matters.

Glenn Beck [29:04]: "They have high tax rates, they spend like crazy in education. They've got one of the most failing school systems in the entire country."

Stu Burguiere echoes this sentiment, lamenting the media's focus on sensationalism over substantive reporting.

Stu Burguiere [70:03]: "They're not going to learn, Glenn. I mean, you look at how Americans are tuning them out..."

The guests advocate for alternative media sources and express skepticism about the mainstream media's ability to adapt to changing political landscapes.

Implications and Future Outlook

As the discussion progresses, Senator Mike Lee touches upon the potential impacts of the pardons on future investigations into figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci and others involved in the COVID-19 response.

Mike Lee [53:32]: "Which if we can subpoena the heck out of these guys and get the truth out of them."

Alan Dershowitz supports this by suggesting that the pardons might actually facilitate more transparent investigations by removing the fear of prosecution.

Alan Dershowitz [56:44]: "He has to go in front of congressional committees and they are controlled by Republicans now. And he can be asked for disclosure of all of his records."

The episode concludes on an optimistic note, with guests expressing hope that Trump’s administration will restore integrity and accountability within the government.

Alan Dershowitz [75:10]: "I am much more optimistic about our country."

Notable Quotes

• Glenn Beck [44:43]: "DC's government has no right to exist constitutionally. Congress shouldn't have delegated its lawmaking authority over DC. It's time to take it back."
• Sen. Mike Lee [45:14]: "Trump's directive was that they were to be released immediately... So we're still trying to get names, numbers, and verify that this is how this is happening, but from what we can tell, they haven't complied with it yet."
• Alan Dershowitz [65:34]: "If we can end lawfare, then we may see an end to these promiscuous use of pardons as well..."
• Glenn Beck [29:04]: "They have high tax rates, they spend like crazy in education. They've got one of the most failing school systems in the entire country."
• Mike Lee [53:32]: "Which if we can subpoena the heck out of these guys and get the truth out of them."

Conclusion

This episode of The Glenn Beck Program presents a critical examination of former President Trump's pardons related to the January 6th Capitol riot, questioning the effectiveness and intentions behind them. With insights from Senator Mike Lee and Alan Dershowitz, the discussion highlights concerns over DC's governance, the role of the media, and the future of American justice and accountability. The guests advocate for stronger Congressional oversight and express optimism about the direction of the new Trump administration in addressing systemic issues within the government.