Summary of "Ep. 1508 - 2025 Just Started And Things Are Already Getting Crazy" on The Matt Walsh Show

Release Date: January 6, 2025
Host: Matt Walsh, The Daily Wire

1. Introduction and Current Events

In the first episode of 2025, Matt Walsh returns from a long Christmas break to address pressing issues unfolding both domestically and internationally. He briefly mentions Justin Trudeau's unexpected resignation from the Canadian political scene, attributing it to Trudeau's perceived incompetence, with a promise to delve deeper into the story in future episodes.

2. The Decline of New York City's Subway System

Matt opens the discussion by highlighting the alarming state of New York City's subway system. He paints a grim picture of increasing violence, citing incidents of passengers being stabbed, assaulted, and even burned alive within the subway tunnels. He emphasizes the significant drop in subway ridership, noting a "more than 25%" decrease compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Key Points:

• Violent Incidents: Matt underscores the rise in violent attacks, mentioning a particularly gruesome case where a woman was burned alive on a train.
• Government Response: He criticizes New York's administration for its ineffective handling of the situation, arguing that instead of cracking down on known criminals like Jamar Banks—a man with "87 prior arrests" involved in transit stabbings—the city opts for policies that inadvertently exacerbate the problem.

Notable Quote:

"Now, if you didn't hear about that. A few weeks ago, a woman was burned alive on a train in New York in front of a crowd of people. This is what's happening now in the third world country known as New York City."
— Matt Walsh [00:00]

3. Congestion Pricing: A Flawed Solution

As a supposed remedy to the declining subway usage, New York City has implemented a congestion pricing scheme. Matt critiques this policy, arguing that it's a regressive tax designed to force more citizens into the already perilous subway system.

Details of Congestion Pricing:

• Scope: Applies to vehicles entering Manhattan between 60th Street and the Battery.
• Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends.
• Cost: $9 per day for passenger and small commercial vehicles.

Public Reaction: Matt references a Siena College survey indicating that nearly two-thirds of New Yorkers oppose the $15 congestion toll. Despite protests and public outcry, the policy remains in effect, leading to scenes where citizens irrationally celebrate the imposition of the toll.

Notable Quotes:

"They’re expressing outrage over the sudden decision by Governor Hochul to put congestion pricing on an indefinite pause."
— Unnamed Protester [09:59]

"You're a stranger screaming like a maniac and asking to unleash a torrent of diarrhea in my bathroom. And you want to do that while I try to eat the food that you delivered to me, no less."
— Matt Walsh [38:25]

Matt argues that instead of enforcing stricter law enforcement to curb subway violence, the city administration opts to financially burden its citizens, thereby socially engineering them into using the subway regardless of safety concerns.

4. Controversial Recipients of the Medal of Freedom

One of the most contentious topics Matt addresses is President Joe Biden's decision to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to figures like Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and even fictional characters like Darth Vader.

Matt's Critique:

• George Soros: Matt vehemently opposes Soros receiving the honor, labeling him as a "supervillain" whose actions have, in his view, harmed the country by supporting politicians who fail to address crime effectively.

• Alternative Suggestions: In a sarcastic tone, Matt suggests alternative recipients he believes are more deserving, including Daniel Penny, Derek Chauvin, and Kyle Rittenhouse, highlighting what he perceives as their significant contributions or actions.

Notable Quotes:

"George Soros next to Barack Obama, has inflicted more harm on this country than probably any other single human being living in the world today, maybe ever giving him a Medal of Freedom."
— Matt Walsh [28:00]

"If we’re giving the Medal of Freedom just to troll people at this point, I’ll volunteer to take. I’ll take one. You can give one to me."
— Matt Walsh [28:30]

Matt contends that awarding such honors to controversial figures undermines the integrity of the Medal of Freedom, turning it into a tool for political trolling rather than genuine recognition of service to the nation.

5. President Biden's Commutation of Death Sentences

Matt delves into President Biden's controversial decision to commute the death sentences of 37 out of 40 federal death row inmates, sparing only three individuals: Dzhokar Tsarnaev (Boston Marathon bomber), Robert Bowers (Pittsburgh synagogue shooter), and Dylann Roof (Charleston church shooter).

Matt's Concerns:

• Arbitrary Decisions: He questions the rationale behind sparing some violent criminals while allowing others to remain on death row, highlighting the perceived inconsistency and lack of logic in the decision.

• Moral Implications: Matt expresses frustration over the moral stance that allows certain heinous crimes to be punished while others receive clemency, painting it as a deep moral failing.

Notable Quotes:

"But three? The three who still have to die are Boston Marathon bomber Zokar Tsarnaev... and Dylann Roof... They are all evil monsters... But are they worse than a guy who murdered or ordered the deaths of 12 people, including kids?"
— Matt Walsh [31:00]

"It's so arbitrary. So, going back to this again. This guy killed 12 people. Dylann Roof killed nine. The other guy won't be executed in Roof will. Why?"
— Matt Walsh [32:00]

Matt argues that Biden's actions betray the victims and their families, labeling the commutations as injustices that prioritize political correctness over true justice.

6. Viral Video Debate: Delivery Driver's Bathroom Request

Transitioning to a lighter yet socially significant topic, Matt discusses a viral video where a delivery driver urgently requests to use a customer's bathroom. The exchange sparks debates about societal trust and personal safety.

Matt's Perspective:

• Safety Concerns: He emphasizes the dangers of letting strangers into one's home, especially under suspicious circumstances.

• Societal Breakdown: Matt attributes such interactions to a broader decline in societal trust, contrasting it with past generations where such requests might have been handled differently.

Notable Quote:

"This is partly the sad result of living in a low trust society. Maybe in a different time and place, maybe you consider letting a stranger use your bathroom."
— Matt Walsh [34:00]

Matt uses this scenario to illustrate the increasing apprehension and distrust prevalent in modern society, arguing that personal safety concerns have rightfully led to stricter boundaries.

7. Daily Cancellation: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

In his segment of daily cancellations, Matt Walsh vehemently criticizes the latest installment of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. He goes as far as to announce the cancellation of "Sonic the Hedgehog 3," deeming it a poor-quality film unsuitable even for its intended young audience.

Key Criticisms:

• Poor Writing and Performances: Matt lambastes the film's narrative inconsistencies, subpar acting—particularly criticizing voice actors like Keanu Reeves—and illogical plot developments.

• Cultural Impact: He contrasts the film with classics like "Iron Giant," asserting that children's movies can and should possess high artistic merit and quality.

Notable Quotes:

"I have to tell you, I'm surprised this is even a conversation as important as it is, because for me, this would be the easiest no in the history of no's."
— Matt Walsh [38:25]

"This is the kind of movie that bores you to the point of putting you to sleep, but also annoys you at the same time. It’s kind of an odd combination to be both sleepy and deeply irritated simultaneously."
— Matt Walsh [40:00]

Matt's thorough deconstruction of the film serves as his way of "cancelling" it, urging his audience to reject media that fails to meet acceptable standards of quality and storytelling.

8. Conclusion

Matt wraps up the episode by reiterating his frustrations with current societal and political issues, underscoring the perceived failures of leadership and the decline of societal norms. He emphasizes the ongoing battle for truth and justice, encouraging his listeners to stay vigilant and informed.

Overall, Episode 1508 of The Matt Walsh Show presents a critical examination of early 2025's socio-political landscape, with Matt Walsh delivering his signature no-holds-barred commentary on issues ranging from urban infrastructure failures and controversial political decisions to cultural critiques of popular media. His incorporation of notable quotes and timestamped references provides a vivid portrayal of the episode's discussions, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the host's perspectives and arguments.