Podcast Summary: The Megyn Kelly Show | Episode 954: Biden's Lies Exposed as He Pardons Hunter, and Media Smears of Pete Hegseth
Host/Author: SiriusXM
Release Date: December 2, 2024
Introduction
In Episode 954 of The Megyn Kelly Show, host Megyn Kelly delves into the controversial decision by President Joe Biden to pardon his son, Hunter Biden. She is joined by notable guests Charles C.W. Cooke, Rich Lowry from National Review, and Marcia Clark, the famed prosecutor known for her role in the O.J. Simpson trial. The discussion critically examines Biden's actions, media responses, and broader political implications, including the smear campaign against Pete Hegseth's Defense Secretary nomination.
1. Biden's Pardon of Hunter Biden
Host's Critique: Megyn Kelly opens the episode with a vehement condemnation of President Biden’s decision to pardon Hunter Biden, labeling it as a blatant lie and a breach of trust. She states, "This guy is an abject liar... He was in on his son's crimes" (00:43).
Guests' Analysis:
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Rich Lowry (05:53): Agrees with Kelly, emphasizing Biden's history of dishonesty and framing the pardon as consistent with his "dishonest hack" persona. Lowry highlights Biden's repeated false assurances about not pardoning Hunter.
“This is a proper and fitting coda to his sordid career.” (06:36)
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Charles C.W. Cooke (08:11): Discusses Biden's policies on gun and drug crimes, contrasting them with his actions towards Hunter Biden. Cooke criticizes the selective application of justice, arguing that Hunter was treated differently due to his father's influence.
“It's an extraordinary example of corruption.” (08:11)
Notable Quotes:
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Megyn Kelly: “Joe Biden repeatedly lied about this... He might pardon him.” (00:43)
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Rich Lowry: “This is a proper and fitting coda to his sordid career.” (06:36)
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Charles C.W. Cooke: “This is a great example of corruption.” (08:11)
2. Implications for Trump and the Justice System
Kelly raises concerns about how Biden’s actions might influence former President Donald Trump’s approach to pardoning J6 defendants. The discussion suggests that Biden’s pardon could embolden Trump to continue his pattern of undermining the Justice Department.
Key Points:
- The contrast between Biden's public commitment to the rule of law and his personal actions.
- Potential precedent set for Trump’s future pardons.
- The undermining of democratic norms and public trust.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Lowry: “He is not pardoning his son... He is living what it means to have a rule of law.” (28:17)
3. Media’s Response to Biden’s Pardon
The podcast critiques the media's reception of Biden’s pardon, highlighting perceived double standards and lack of accountability.
Examples:
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MSNBC Personalities: Kelly cites Molly Jong-Fast's mute reaction to the pardon announcement, implying media complicity or obliviousness.
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Articles and Statements: Guests criticize media figures like Mika Brzezinski and Stephanie Ruhle for not adequately addressing the implications of the pardon.
Notable Quotes:
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Megyn Kelly: “Protect norms and institutions.” (38:29)
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Rich Lowry: “When Joe Biden lies... he just can't tell the truth to the public.” (29:15)
4. Pete Hegseth’s Defense Secretary Nomination and Media Smears
The show transitions to discussing Pete Hegseth’s nomination for Defense Secretary, focusing on negative media coverage and leaked personal communications.
Discussion Points:
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New York Times Reporting: Coverage of Hegseth's personal life, including a leaked email from his mother criticizing his behavior during a divorce.
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Controversial Allegations: Accusations from the New York Times about Hegseth's alleged misconduct in veterans' organizations, which guests argue are either exaggerated or fabricated.
Guest Opinions:
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Rich Lowry (60:12): Suggests that Hegseth’s personal issues shouldn’t disqualify him unless they impact his professional capabilities.
“His nomination is problematic.” (61:49)
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Charles C.W. Cooke (73:03): Defends Hegseth, arguing that personal indiscretions should not outweigh his qualifications and service.
Notable Quotes:
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Marcia Clark: “How can Republicans keep making this argument now that now that Joe Biden has really put it out there, where's Hunter?” (74:15)
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Rich Lowry: “I think he'll get confirmed because I think anyone who doesn't is not totally crazy.” (75:22)
5. Cash Patel’s Potential FBI Directorship
The conversation shifts to Cash Patel’s candidacy for FBI Director, with skepticism about his qualifications and concerns regarding his association with Trump and extremist rhetoric.
Discussion Points:
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Steve Bannon Clip (80:10): Patel speaks aggressively about targeting conspirators in government and media.
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Guest Insights:
- Charles C.W. Cooke: Criticizes Patel’s approach, labeling the FBI as a corrupt institution needing dismantling.
- Rich Lowry: Believes Patel might get confirmed but expresses concerns about his radical views and potential for chaos within the bureau.
Notable Quotes:
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Steve Bannon (80:10): “We will go after you, whether it's criminally or civilly.” (80:21)
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Charles C.W. Cooke: “The FBI is a disaster... I think it's a paper tiger.” (73:03)
6. Conversation with Marcia Clark on Trial by Ambush
Closing the episode, Megyn Kelly interviews Marcia Clark about her new book, Trial by Ambush: Murder, Injustice, and the Truth about the Case of Barbara Graham. Clark discusses the flawed trial of Barbara Graham, highlighting media bias and prosecutorial misconduct.
Key Topics:
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Barbara Graham’s Trial: Clark reveals how media sensationalism and prosecutorial overreach led to Graham’s wrongful conviction and execution.
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Media Manipulation: The role of tabloid-style reporting in shaping public perception and undermining fair trial principles.
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Prosecutorial Failures: Clark emphasizes the withholding of crucial evidence from the defense, exemplifying systemic injustices.
Notable Quotes:
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Marcia Clark: “They deliberately hid that statement. That was a real horrible thing.” (100:36)
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Megyn Kelly: “She was set up to fail very clearly by a media that was selling a bunch of copy based on these descriptions of her.” (101:35)
Conclusion
Episode 954 of The Megyn Kelly Show presents a scathing critique of President Biden’s decision to pardon Hunter Biden, examining the implications for political accountability and media bias. The discussion extends to the controversial nomination of Pete Hegseth and the potential directorship of Cash Patel at the FBI, highlighting concerns over integrity and systemic corruption. The episode culminates with Marcia Clark’s insights into media manipulation and prosecutorial misconduct through the lens of her new book.
Notable Final Quotes:
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Rich Lowry: “Joe Biden just made clear his son Hunter is above the law.” (46:56)
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Marcia Clark: “You have to always think about what's right and what's fair.” (100:43)
Key Takeaways:
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Biden's Pardon: Viewed as a breach of trust and a continuation of perceived dishonesty.
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Media's Role: Criticized for double standards and failure to hold powerful figures accountable.
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Nomination Controversies: Highlighted the potential for personal indiscretions to impact high-level appointments.
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Systemic Issues: Emphasized the need for judicial and prosecutorial reforms to prevent miscarriages of justice.
Recommendations for Listeners:
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Critically evaluate media narratives and seek multiple perspectives on political actions.
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Reflect on the importance of accountability regardless of political affiliation.
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Consider reading Marcia Clark’s Trial by Ambush for an in-depth understanding of media and prosecutorial biases in high-profile cases.
References:
- Trial by Ambush: Murder, Injustice, and the Truth about the Case of Barbara Graham by Marcia Clark
- National Review Articles by Rich Lowry and Charles C.W. Cooke
- Episode Transcript Timestamps