The Rubin Report: “‘Shark Tank’ Legend Notices Something About Trump’s Canada Plan No One Noticed”

Release Date: March 13, 2025
Host: Dave Rubin
Guest: Kevin O'Leary (Mr. Wonderful)

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Rubin Report, host Dave Rubin delves deep into the intricacies of the ongoing trade war between the United States and Canada. Joining him is Kevin O'Leary, renowned as Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank, who brings forth insightful perspectives on the current economic landscape and former President Donald Trump's nuanced plans for Canada. Rubin also addresses significant political developments, critiques mainstream media narratives, and engages with his audience through a dynamic community Q&A session.

The US-Canada Trade War and Tariff Dynamics

Kevin O'Leary's Vision for US-Canada Economic Relations

Kevin O'Leary, a prominent supporter of Trump’s economic policies, articulates a vision for a harmonious economic union between the United States and Canada. He emphasizes the potential benefits of eliminating tariffs to foster a more balanced trade relationship:

Kevin O'Leary [02:54]: "The signal that Trump's put out multiple times is what an incredible economic union could be formed if we eradicated tariffs and joined the two economies, not buying the country and making Canadians Americans. Sovereignty is off the table."

O'Leary argues that removing tariffs will create a mutually beneficial environment where both nations can thrive without compromising their sovereignty. He suggests that such an economic partnership would enhance competitiveness against global powers like China.

Trump’s Tariff Policy: A Negotiation Strategy

Dave Rubin dissects Trump’s tariff strategy, highlighting its role as a negotiation tool rather than a mere revenue generator:

Dave Rubin [03:04]: "Trump ultimately wants to eradicate tariffs. There's very few, well, I suppose there's somebody, but I don't think there's that many people who know much about economics that want trade wars and tariff wars."

Rubin emphasizes that Trump’s tariffs are aimed at leveling the playing field, ensuring that the U.S. is not disadvantaged in international trade agreements. He underscores the importance of eliminating tariffs to promote fair trade practices.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tax Elimination

Howard Lutnick, representing the Commerce Department, shares his stance on reducing or eliminating taxes for individuals earning below $150,000:

Howard Lutnick [06:28]: "The signal that Trump's put out multiple times is what an incredible economic union could be formed if we eradicated tariffs and joined the two economies... let them pay a membership fee... Let them pay. How about we, you and I, and every single person we know pay less?"

Rubin critically assesses Lutnick’s proposal, questioning the practicality and potential socioeconomic implications of tax elimination. He points out the challenges in implementing such policies, including the possibility of class warfare emerging from tax disparities.

Elon Musk: Hero or Villain?

Media Criticism and Vandalism Concerns

The conversation shifts to Elon Musk, who Rubin portrays as a target of media aggression and domestic protests:

Dave Rubin [10:43]: "Here is Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explaining that even more. And this is really fascinating, and I'm shocked that the lefties aren't on board this one."

Rubin defends Musk against accusations of incompetence and vandalism at Tesla facilities, attributing the backlash to a broader media conspiracy aimed at destabilizing influential American companies.

Lawrence O'Donnell’s Critique of Musk

Lawrence O'Donnell of MSNBC provides a scathing critique of Musk’s understanding of American society and business practices:

Lawrence O'Donnell [16:25]: "Elon Musk does not understand the country where he now lives... He grew up in white South Africa, going to a segregated elementary school and high school where he learned nothing about American history, American law, American free enterprise."

Rubin vehemently counters O'Donnell’s remarks, labeling him derogatorily and questioning the authenticity of his criticisms:

Dave Rubin [17:26]: "Lawrence O'Donnell, you're a fucking retard and I'm going light on you right there."

Rubin further praises Musk as a visionary, emphasizing his contributions to transportation and climate change innovations while denouncing the media’s portrayal of him.

Marco Rubio and National Security

Rubio’s Stance on Hamas-Supporting Green Card Holders

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Senator Marco Rubio and his decisive actions against Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian national with ties to Hamas:

Marco Rubio [23:29]: "We can deny you that if you tell us when you apply... If you actually end up doing that once you're in this country on such a visa, we will revoke it. And if you end up having a green card... we're going to kick you out."

Rubin lauds Rubio’s firm stance on national security, portraying it as a necessary measure to protect American sovereignty and condemn those who intend to undermine it.

Analysis of Rubio’s Policies

Rubin praises Rubio for his unwavering commitment to American values, criticizing the left for their leniency towards individuals like Khalil who threaten national stability:

Dave Rubin [25:24]: "This has nothing to do with free speech... No one has a right to a green card in the United States. And guess what? They are finding out that this guy is connected to all sorts of organizations that are calling for violence and much more."

Rubin underscores the importance of upholding stringent immigration policies to prevent the infiltration of extremist elements, framing Rubio’s actions as a pivotal moment in his political career.

Media Narratives and Hypocrisy

Hypocrisy of Mainstream Media

Rubin critiques mainstream media outlets like MSNBC and CNN for their biased narratives and failure to objectively address issues related to free speech and national security:

Dave Rubin [18:34]: "Lawrence O'Donnell, you're a fucking retard and I'm going light on you right there. You're Just an awful human being."

He accuses these media personalities of lacking authenticity and serving corporate interests rather than engaging in genuine discourse.

Double Standards in Media Coverage

Rubin highlights the double standards in media coverage, particularly in how they handle figures like Elon Musk compared to others. He argues that the media unfairly targets Musk while ignoring similar behaviors from other political figures:

Dave Rubin [18:48]: "Elon Musk is one of the most interesting people in America... What happened, guys? Is it that Elon Musk ripped off the mask and said I'm a white supremacist Nazi...?"

Rubin’s passionate defense of Musk serves as a broader critique of media biases that prioritize sensationalism over factual reporting.

Community Q&A: Audience Engagement

Questions on Government Layoffs and Privatization

Rubin addresses audience questions regarding government layoffs and the potential impact on competent employees:

Listener “Cool Mom” [45:27]: "Is this my mom? What are some good jobs all the bureaucrats for?"

Rubin discusses the necessity of privatization and competition in the private sector to replace laid-off government employees, emphasizing efficiency and accountability.

Discussion on Hate Crimes and Free Speech

Another question tackles the issue of hate crimes in relation to anti-Semitic protests at universities:

Listener “Lynn”: "Why is it that protesting and attacking Jews at Columbia and Barnard and spewing anti Semitic remarks are not considered hate crimes?"

Rubin clarifies the distinction between hate speech and organized, violent disruptions, arguing that actions undermining public safety and education extend beyond free speech protections.

Comments on Transgender Issues vs. Past Anorexia Trends

A listener inquires about the social shifts from anorexia in the 80s to current transgender trends:

Listener “Gold Z62” [45:27]: "Do you think the girls who would have been anorexic in the 80s are trans today?"

Rubin acknowledges the transformation in societal challenges, suggesting that evolving social dynamics necessitate ongoing discourse and understanding.

Conclusion

Dave Rubin's episode of The Rubin Report offers a robust exploration of critical issues affecting American society and international relations. From dissecting the complexities of the US-Canada trade war and advocating for fair tariffs to championing national security through stringent immigration policies, Rubin provides a platform for candid discussions often sidelined by mainstream media. His interactions with Kevin O'Leary and critical assessments of figures like Elon Musk and Marco Rubio underscore a commitment to free speech, economic fairness, and national integrity. The engaging community Q&A session further amplifies Rubin's focus on resonating with his audience's concerns, solidifying The Rubin Report as a beacon for unfiltered and thought-provoking dialogue.

Notable Quotes:

• Kevin O'Leary [02:54]: "The signal that Trump's put out multiple times is what an incredible economic union could be formed if we eradicated tariffs and joined the two economies, not buying the country and making Canadians Americans. Sovereignty is off the table."

• Howard Lutnick [06:28]: "Let them pay. How about we, you and I, and every single person we know pay less?"

• Lawrence O'Donnell [16:25]: "Elon Musk does not understand the country where he now lives..."

• Marco Rubio [23:29]: "If you actually end up doing that once you're in this country on such a visa, we will revoke it."

This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the essential discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn by Dave Rubin and his guest, Kevin O'Leary. The inclusion of direct quotes with timestamps provides authenticity and depth to the analysis, ensuring that even those who haven't listened can grasp the critical points covered.