The Josh Hammer Show – April 13, 2026

Host: Mark Davis (filling in for Josh Hammer)
Episode Theme: War With Iran Escalates & Dem Hypocrisy

Episode Overview

Mark Davis, veteran Texas talk radio host, sits in for Josh Hammer, examining America's war with Iran, the fallout from Eric Swalwell's sex scandal and withdrawal from the California gubernatorial race, sharp Catholic opposition to the war from Pope Leo XIV, and the unifying delight at the Artemis space crew's return. Davis blends incisive conservative commentary with personal anecdotes and direct criticism of perceived left-wing hypocrisy and moral confusion, especially within the Democratic Party and among U.S. Catholic leadership.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. War With Iran: Escalation, Motivation, and Risks

[03:30–12:20]

U.S. Strategy & Iranian Regime:
Davis stresses the challenge in negotiating with Iran, differentiating them from past adversaries like the Soviets or China. He claims Iranian theocracy—specifically the mullahs—are uniquely willing to accept death and martyrdom, making traditional deterrence elusive.
- “Dealing with the Iranians is not like dealing with the Soviets… not like dealing with the Chinese… I don't believe on a day-to-day basis that they are stoked about dying. …This Iranian regime, I don't know, man.” (06:44)
Regime Change and Military Success:
Supports ongoing war efforts, argues that much of Iran’s military has been “obliterated,” and suggests more might be needed to "defang" Iran as a nuclear threat.
Face-Saving Diplomacy:
Discusses the theory that the U.S. could forcibly remove uranium from Iran, allowing the regime to save face while sanctions are lifted.
Trump as a “Persian Strongman”:
Observes Trump’s messaging style in the conflict and asserts that, despite controversial tactics and imagery (e.g., “Trump as Jesus” meme), conservative, especially evangelical, support remains strong.
- “He’s still my favorite. President Reagan was great. Trump comes along at a much more consequential and important time.” (10:33)

Notable Quote:

“Peace is not defined by everyone laying down their arms. Peace is what you get when the good guys win.”
– Mark Davis (30:44)

2. Eric Swalwell Sex Scandal and Democratic Power Plays

[13:24–23:20]

Swalwell’s Fall and Hypocrisy:
Davis expresses little sympathy for Swalwell, whom he calls “execrable,” yet argues that due process is necessary. He critiques Democrats for allegedly only demanding accountability now that Swalwell endangered party prospects in the “jungle primary.”
Jayapal’s ‘Believe Women’ Stance:
Plays and critiques Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s comments, suggesting her calls for Swalwell to drop out are driven by both survivor advocacy and a cynical power calculus.
- “She's all in for the credibility of these stories without totally knowing that they're true. Why? Power play in California, man.” (20:24)
Steve Hilton Commentary:
Hilton slams the Democratic establishment for supporting Swalwell despite his behavior, then turning on him for political expediency.
- “These career politicians…have contempt for the voters. …And the other thing that's unbelievable is…all these people…pretend now to be outraged…they endorsed him anyway.” (21:26)
Due Process & Political Expediency:
Raises the issue of whether lawmakers should be expelled before conviction; notes party-driven double standards in such cases.

Notable Quote:

“Consistency requires me to apply the same standard that I would if this had happened to somebody I actually admire. …If it is [true], let the wheels turn.”
– Mark Davis (17:45)

3. Pope Leo XIV and Catholic Opposition to the War

[24:23–34:23]

Catholic Doctrine and “Just War”:
Cardinal Robert McElroy and Pope Leo XIV voice opposition to the U.S.-Iran war on 60 Minutes, citing Catholic Just War principles—arguing this war fails those tests.
- “Under Catholic teaching, this is not a just war.” – Cardinal McElroy (26:08)
- Pope: "Ask all people of goodwill to search always for peace and not violence…to reject war, especially a war which…is not resolving anything." (29:01)
Davis’s Critique:
Blasts Vatican statements as divorced from biblical morality and from history, arguing peace cannot exist with unchecked evil. He draws parallels to WWII, the American Revolution, and Israel, suggesting some wars are necessary for true peace.
- “From the Pope, really? …Peace is what you get when the good guys win.” (30:37)
Accusations of Anti-Trump Bias:
Attributes some Catholic opposition more to animus toward Trump than true theological arguments.

Memorable Moment:

“Were we wrong to take down Hitler?...Should we have just sat down and had dialogue with Imperial Japan?”
– Mark Davis (31:09)

4. Artemis Crew's Return: Awe, Faith, and American Unity

[35:27–45:25]

National Pride and the Power of Exploration:
Davis describes the Artemis mission’s successful completion as a rare unifying moment, evoking his own lifelong passion for space and its deep resonance across generations.
Personal Stories:
Shares moving details—like Commander Reid Wiseman being a single father and pilot Victor Glover’s public expressions of faith.
- “This was not easy being 200,000 plus miles away from home…When you're out there, you just want to get back to your families and your friends. It's a special thing to be a human and it's a special thing to be on planet Earth.” – Reid Wiseman (40:02)
- “When this started on April 3rd, I wanted to thank God in public, and I want to thank God again… it’s too big to just be in one body.” – Victor Glover (41:31)
Historical Perspective:
Reflects on how past moon landings gradually lost public excitement, but hopes the Artemis program will rekindle broad national enthusiasm and inspire youth—including Josh Hammer himself, who wrote a column on Artemis.
Outlook for Artemis 3 & Beyond:
Shares excitement for looming milestones: further missions set for the mid-to-late 2020s.

Notable Quote:

“What I really loved was…four human beings…explored…just the very first molecules of this vast universe created by God.”
– Mark Davis (36:24)

Timestamps for Important Segments

| Segment | Timestamp | |------------------------------------------------|--------------| | U.S.–Iran War Discussion | 03:30–12:20 | | Evangelical Support for Trump Despite Controversy | 10:33 | | Eric Swalwell Scandal & Democrat Response | 13:24–23:20 | | Pramila Jayapal & Steve Hilton Respond | 19:02–22:48 | | Expulsion and Due Process in Scandal | 22:48–23:20 | | Pope Leo XIV/Catholic View on Iran War | 24:23–34:23 | | Davis Critiques Vatican Statements | 30:37–34:23 | | Artemis Crew Return & Reflections | 35:27–45:25 | | Emotional Quotes from Artemis Crew | 40:02–43:00 |

Memorable Quotes

On Iranian Regime:
“Dealing with the Iranians is not like dealing with the Soviets… This Iranian regime, I don't know, man.”
– Mark Davis (06:44)
On Trump’s Support:
“He’s still my favorite. President Reagan was great. Trump comes along at a much more consequential and important time.”
– Mark Davis (10:33)
On Due Process and Scandal:
“Consistency requires me to apply the same standard that I would if this had happened to somebody I actually admire.”
– Mark Davis (17:45)
On War and Morality:
“Peace is what you get when the good guys win.”
– Mark Davis (30:44)
Artemis Commander’s Reflection:
“When you’re out there, you just want to get back to your families… It's a special thing to be a human and it's a special thing to be on planet Earth.”
– Reid Wiseman (40:02)

Tone and Structure

Language and Tone:
The episode blends irreverent humor, personal nostalgia, and old-fashioned polemic. Davis draws clear lines between good and evil, right and wrong, frequently referencing his faith and appealing to patriotism.
Style:
Exuberant, discursive, and occasionally combative—especially toward left-wing figures and the Catholic establishment’s stance on war. Balances seriousness with light, emotive moments around the Artemis mission.
Speaker Attribution:
Quotes are clearly tagged, with timestamps to orient listeners to key moments.

In Summary

This episode distills the combative, at times raucous energy of New Right podcasting as Mark Davis fills in for Josh Hammer. It sharply critiques both geopolitical adversaries and domestic political opponents, insists on conservative and evangelical Christian perspectives, and finds rare, transcendent optimism in America’s space endeavors.

The Josh Hammer Show – April 13, 2026

Host: Mark Davis (filling in for Josh Hammer)
Episode Theme: War With Iran Escalates & Dem Hypocrisy

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. War With Iran: Escalation, Motivation, and Risks

[03:30–12:20]

U.S. Strategy & Iranian Regime:
Davis stresses the challenge in negotiating with Iran, differentiating them from past adversaries like the Soviets or China. He claims Iranian theocracy—specifically the mullahs—are uniquely willing to accept death and martyrdom, making traditional deterrence elusive.
- “Dealing with the Iranians is not like dealing with the Soviets… not like dealing with the Chinese… I don't believe on a day-to-day basis that they are stoked about dying. …This Iranian regime, I don't know, man.” (06:44)
Regime Change and Military Success:
Supports ongoing war efforts, argues that much of Iran’s military has been “obliterated,” and suggests more might be needed to "defang" Iran as a nuclear threat.
Face-Saving Diplomacy:
Discusses the theory that the U.S. could forcibly remove uranium from Iran, allowing the regime to save face while sanctions are lifted.
Trump as a “Persian Strongman”:
Observes Trump’s messaging style in the conflict and asserts that, despite controversial tactics and imagery (e.g., “Trump as Jesus” meme), conservative, especially evangelical, support remains strong.
- “He’s still my favorite. President Reagan was great. Trump comes along at a much more consequential and important time.” (10:33)

Notable Quote:

“Peace is not defined by everyone laying down their arms. Peace is what you get when the good guys win.”
– Mark Davis (30:44)

2. Eric Swalwell Sex Scandal and Democratic Power Plays

[13:24–23:20]

Swalwell’s Fall and Hypocrisy:
Davis expresses little sympathy for Swalwell, whom he calls “execrable,” yet argues that due process is necessary. He critiques Democrats for allegedly only demanding accountability now that Swalwell endangered party prospects in the “jungle primary.”
Jayapal’s ‘Believe Women’ Stance:
Plays and critiques Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s comments, suggesting her calls for Swalwell to drop out are driven by both survivor advocacy and a cynical power calculus.
- “She's all in for the credibility of these stories without totally knowing that they're true. Why? Power play in California, man.” (20:24)
Steve Hilton Commentary:
Hilton slams the Democratic establishment for supporting Swalwell despite his behavior, then turning on him for political expediency.
- “These career politicians…have contempt for the voters. …And the other thing that's unbelievable is…all these people…pretend now to be outraged…they endorsed him anyway.” (21:26)
Due Process & Political Expediency:
Raises the issue of whether lawmakers should be expelled before conviction; notes party-driven double standards in such cases.

Notable Quote:

“Consistency requires me to apply the same standard that I would if this had happened to somebody I actually admire. …If it is [true], let the wheels turn.”
– Mark Davis (17:45)

3. Pope Leo XIV and Catholic Opposition to the War

[24:23–34:23]

Catholic Doctrine and “Just War”:
Cardinal Robert McElroy and Pope Leo XIV voice opposition to the U.S.-Iran war on 60 Minutes, citing Catholic Just War principles—arguing this war fails those tests.
- “Under Catholic teaching, this is not a just war.” – Cardinal McElroy (26:08)
- Pope: "Ask all people of goodwill to search always for peace and not violence…to reject war, especially a war which…is not resolving anything." (29:01)
Davis’s Critique:
Blasts Vatican statements as divorced from biblical morality and from history, arguing peace cannot exist with unchecked evil. He draws parallels to WWII, the American Revolution, and Israel, suggesting some wars are necessary for true peace.
- “From the Pope, really? …Peace is what you get when the good guys win.” (30:37)
Accusations of Anti-Trump Bias:
Attributes some Catholic opposition more to animus toward Trump than true theological arguments.

Memorable Moment:

“Were we wrong to take down Hitler?...Should we have just sat down and had dialogue with Imperial Japan?”
– Mark Davis (31:09)

4. Artemis Crew's Return: Awe, Faith, and American Unity

[35:27–45:25]

National Pride and the Power of Exploration:
Davis describes the Artemis mission’s successful completion as a rare unifying moment, evoking his own lifelong passion for space and its deep resonance across generations.
Personal Stories:
Shares moving details—like Commander Reid Wiseman being a single father and pilot Victor Glover’s public expressions of faith.
- “This was not easy being 200,000 plus miles away from home…When you're out there, you just want to get back to your families and your friends. It's a special thing to be a human and it's a special thing to be on planet Earth.” – Reid Wiseman (40:02)
- “When this started on April 3rd, I wanted to thank God in public, and I want to thank God again… it’s too big to just be in one body.” – Victor Glover (41:31)
Historical Perspective:
Reflects on how past moon landings gradually lost public excitement, but hopes the Artemis program will rekindle broad national enthusiasm and inspire youth—including Josh Hammer himself, who wrote a column on Artemis.
Outlook for Artemis 3 & Beyond:
Shares excitement for looming milestones: further missions set for the mid-to-late 2020s.

Notable Quote:

“What I really loved was…four human beings…explored…just the very first molecules of this vast universe created by God.”
– Mark Davis (36:24)

Timestamps for Important Segments

Memorable Quotes

On Iranian Regime:
“Dealing with the Iranians is not like dealing with the Soviets… This Iranian regime, I don't know, man.”
– Mark Davis (06:44)
On Trump’s Support:
“He’s still my favorite. President Reagan was great. Trump comes along at a much more consequential and important time.”
– Mark Davis (10:33)
On Due Process and Scandal:
“Consistency requires me to apply the same standard that I would if this had happened to somebody I actually admire.”
– Mark Davis (17:45)
On War and Morality:
“Peace is what you get when the good guys win.”
– Mark Davis (30:44)
Artemis Commander’s Reflection:
“When you’re out there, you just want to get back to your families… It's a special thing to be a human and it's a special thing to be on planet Earth.”
– Reid Wiseman (40:02)

Tone and Structure

Language and Tone:
The episode blends irreverent humor, personal nostalgia, and old-fashioned polemic. Davis draws clear lines between good and evil, right and wrong, frequently referencing his faith and appealing to patriotism.
Style:
Exuberant, discursive, and occasionally combative—especially toward left-wing figures and the Catholic establishment’s stance on war. Balances seriousness with light, emotive moments around the Artemis mission.
Speaker Attribution:
Quotes are clearly tagged, with timestamps to orient listeners to key moments.