Podcast Title: The Michael Knowles Show
Host: Michael Knowles, The Daily Wire
Episode: Ep. 1751 - "They Spit, We Hit": Trump Sends Marines to LA Riots
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Overview
In Episode 1751 of The Michael Knowles Show, host Michael Knowles delves into the tumultuous events unfolding in Los Angeles as President Donald Trump deploys both the National Guard and Marines to address violent riots. Knowles analyzes the political maneuvers, contrasts Democratic and Republican responses, and explores broader societal trends, including generational shifts in alcohol consumption and the role of prominent figures like Vice President J.D. Vance and Congresswoman Maxine Waters. The episode is rich with pointed commentary, strategic insights, and notable quotes that encapsulate the ongoing cultural and political battles.
Trump’s Strategic Deployment in Los Angeles
Knowles begins by highlighting President Trump’s decisive action in response to the riots in Los Angeles, emphasizing the strategic deployment of both the National Guard and 700 U.S. Marines to protect federal buildings.
- Quote:
“If they spit, we will hit.”
– President Donald Trump [Timestamp: 04:15]
Knowles praises Trump’s approach, asserting that it not only addresses the immediate crisis but also positions him favorably against Democratic narratives.
- Key Points:
- Democratic Accusations: Democrats allege that Trump orchestrates the response to enhance Republican standing while tarnishing Democratic reputation.
- Governor Gavin Newsom’s Opposition: Newsom is actively suing Trump over the deployment, reflecting the tension between state and federal authorities.
- Public Support: Knowles argues that the majority of Americans support the National Guard and Marines, aligning with Trump’s actions to maintain order.
Democratic Narratives vs. Ground Realities
The episode critiques Democratic leaders like Maxine Waters and media figures who downplay the violence associated with the current protests.
- Maxine Waters’ Claims:
“There'd been no violence where anybody that was protesting hit anybody, shot anybody, threatened anybody.”
– Maxine Waters [Timestamp: 12:27]
Knowles counters by presenting evidence of escalating violence, including assaults on police officers and property damage, thereby discrediting Waters' assertions.
- Key Points:
- Contradictory Statements: Democrats advocate for peaceful protests while simultaneously being associated with inciting violence.
- Historical Comparison: Knowles references the 1960s protests at Kent State, illustrating that public reaction has historically favored law enforcement over protesters.
- Police Chief’s Testimony:
“We saw individuals out there shooting commercial grade fireworks at our officers. That can kill you.”
– LAPD Police Chief [Timestamp: 22:10]
Vice President J.D. Vance’s Political Acumen
Knowles discusses Vice President J.D. Vance’s adeptness in engaging with young conservatives, highlighting a specific interaction on Twitter that showcases Vance’s relatability and strategic positioning.
-
Notable Interaction:
Vance responds to a tweet from a men’s fashion critic who admitted to being an illegal immigrant by humorously suggesting deporting the critic in exchange for amnesty for all illegal aliens. -
Key Points:
- Vance’s Appeal: His online fluency and connection with younger conservatives position him as a strong contender for future leadership.
- Strategic Messaging: By addressing specific grievances and showcasing a tough stance on immigration, Vance strengthens his political base.
- Quote:
“I am willing to offer amnesty and indeed citizenship to all estimated 16 million illegal aliens in this country, including Ms. 13 and Trend. If we can deport the Caddy liberal Twitter account, the men’s style guy. That's my deal.”
– Michael Knowles [Timestamp: 34:45]
Generational Shifts: Gen Z and Alcohol Consumption
A significant portion of the episode examines a study indicating a drastic decline in alcohol consumption among Generation Z (Gen Z), which Knowles interprets as a concerning trend rather than a purely positive one.
-
Key Statistics:
- Boomers: $25 billion annually
- Gen X: $23 billion annually
- Millennials: $23.5 billion annually
- Gen Z: $3.13 billion annually
-
Key Points:
- Isolation and Substance Use: Knowles associates lower alcohol consumption with increased isolation and marijuana use, viewing it as a negative societal shift.
- Social Consequences: He argues that alcohol acts as a social lubricant, essential for human sociability, whereas marijuana encourages isolation.
- Quote:
“Abstinence can be fine. It can even be good. But as this generational trend, I think this is not a good sign.”
– Michael Knowles [Timestamp: 35:50]
Coco Gauff and the Redefinition of Patriotism
The episode transitions to discuss tennis star Coco Gauff’s comments on patriotism, critiquing her perspective as indicative of broader liberal attitudes toward national identity.
-
Gauff’s Statement:
“I'm proud to be American and I'm proud to represent the Americans that look like me and people who kind of support the things that I support.”
– Coco Gauff [Timestamp: 40:32] -
Knowles’ Analysis:
- Redefining Patriotism: He argues that Gauff’s view shifts patriotism from a universal love of country to selective pride based on race.
- Leftist Ideology: He contends that such perspectives reflect a lack of genuine patriotism and align with leftist tendencies to prioritize identity over national unity.
- Quote:
“Patriotism is love of country, including your countrymen who don't look like you.”
– Michael Knowles [Timestamp: 41:32]
Concluding Insights and Political Implications
In wrapping up, Knowles emphasizes the political advantages Trump gains through his firm stance against the riots, contrasting it with Democratic policies that inadvertently foster voter loss through perceived lawlessness.
- Key Points:
- Unified Republican Strategy: Trump’s actions consolidate support across various conservative factions, enhancing his political capital.
- Democratic Voter Loss: Ongoing violence and chaotic responses by Democrats lead to diminishing support among the electorate.
- Final Thoughts:
“The longer this goes on, I think the worse it's gonna look for Democrats. So far, Trump's played it perfectly. He should ramp up the pressure.”
– Michael Knowles [Timestamp: 48:15]
Notable Quotes Summary
-
President Trump:
“If they spit, we will hit.”
[04:15] -
Maxine Waters:
“There'd been no violence where anybody that was protesting hit anybody, shot anybody, threatened anybody.”
[12:27] -
LAPD Police Chief:
“What we've seen is getting increasingly worse and more violent. Tonight we had individuals out there shooting commercial grade fireworks at our officers. That can kill you.”
[22:10] -
Michael Knowles on Immigration and Vance:
“If we can deport the Caddy liberal Twitter account, the men’s style guy. That's my deal.”
[34:45] -
Michael Knowles on Gen Z Alcohol Consumption:
“Abstinence can be fine. It can even be good. But as this generational trend, I think this is not a good sign.”
[35:50] -
Coco Gauff:
“I'm proud to be American and I'm proud to represent the Americans that look like me and people who kind of support the things that I support.”
[40:32] -
Michael Knowles on Patriotism:
“Patriotism is love of country, including your countrymen who don't look like you.”
[41:32] -
Michael Knowles on Democratic Strategies:
“The longer this goes on, I think the worse it's gonna look for Democrats. So far, Trump's played it perfectly. He should ramp up the pressure.”
[48:15]
Conclusion
Episode 1751 of The Michael Knowles Show offers a fervent analysis of the current political climate, particularly focusing on President Trump’s handling of the LA riots and the contrasting Democratic responses. Knowles intertwines immediate political events with broader societal trends, presenting a narrative that underscores the deepening political divide in America. Through strategic commentary and incisive critique, the episode underscores the complexities of modern conservatism and the evolving challenges it faces.