The Tony Kennett Cast – Episode 372: "Media Giants Prepare for Bankruptcy, Mergers, Cancellations, & Angry Women"
Release Date: July 26, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 372 of The Tony Kennett Cast, host Tony Kennett delves into the tumultuous landscape of modern media, scrutinizes the faltering state of liberal media outlets, and critiques the current Democratic leadership. The episode, rich with commentary and sharp analysis, provides listeners with a comprehensive overview of the challenges facing both media giants and the Democratic Party as the impending midterm elections approach.
1. The Decline of Media Giants
Media Matters Heading Towards Bankruptcy
Tony Kennett opens the discussion by addressing the precarious financial state of Media Matters, a left-wing organization funded by figures like George Soros. Kennett highlights how Media Matters, which once positioned itself as a bulwark against conservative misinformation, is now struggling financially. He sarcastically remarks, “Media Matters is not making tons of money anymore, coincidentally, at the same time that the USAID funding is a little drier than it used to be…” (04:30).
Cable News Ratings Plummet
Kennett presents alarming statistics on the dwindling viewership of major cable news networks. He cites primetime ratings from the week of July 14th, noting that Fox News garnered 2.38 million viewers, while MSNBC and CNN lagged with 923,000 and 498,000 viewers respectively (04:30). He emphasizes that even without considering digital platforms, traditional networks are facing “abysmal” numbers (05:20).
Stephen Colbert’s Financial Impact on CBS
The host discusses the financial strain caused by The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, revealing that the show costs CBS $100 million annually but only generates $60 million in return, resulting in a loss of approximately $40 million each year (05:20). Kennett criticizes Colbert, expressing frustration over his continued presence despite the losses, declaring, “Shedding woodrow… Fever is the ultimate weapon” (11:08).
2. Critique of Liberal Media and Personalities
Rosie O’Donnell’s Rants
Kennett mocks comedian Rosie O’Donnell for her anti-media empire rhetoric, describing her as “yelling about the ultimate Nazi conspiracy” (09:52). He ridicules her historical references and anti-conservative stance, portraying her as out of touch.
Justice Elena Kagan Condemns Violence Against Judges
The discussion shifts to Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan, the least offensive of the liberal justices, who recently condemned violence against judges. Kennett critiques Kagan’s belated stance, pointing out that threats against justices intensified before her condemnation (12:05). He questions the consistency and timing of her statements, suggesting skepticism about her motivations (14:20).
3. Democratic Leadership and Unity Issues
Lack of Unified Leadership
Kennett expresses concern over the Democratic Party's lack of cohesive leadership heading into the midterms. He laments the absence of prominent figures like Chuck Schumer and criticizes leaders such as Hakeem Jeffries and Jasmine Crockett for their ineffective public presence (15:39).
Jasmine Crockett on Gerrymandering
Representative Jasmine Crockett addresses the issue of gerrymandering in Texas, arguing that Republicans are manipulating district boundaries to suppress minority voices. Kennett counters by highlighting the strong approval ratings of Republican Representative Wesley Hunt among diverse demographics, suggesting that Crockett’s fears may be unfounded (25:09).
4. Critical Issues: Planned Parenthood and DEI
Planned Parenthood Under Fire
Ayanna Pressley warns that Republican budget proposals could jeopardize 600 Planned Parenthood centers, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown mothers. Kennett sarcastically downplays the threat, questioning the real impact of these closures and mocking the Democrats’ stance on minority rights (22:11).
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Criticisms
Pressley champions DEI initiatives as essential for justice and progress, while Kennett ridicules these efforts as superficial and excessively focused on demographic categories. He mocks the language and priorities of DEI advocates, suggesting that such initiatives fail to unite Americans (21:03).
5. Support for Palestine and Legislative Performances
Rashida Tlaib’s Pro-Palestine Gestures
The episode highlights Rashida Tlaib’s theatrical support for Palestine, including her musical performances on the House floor. Kennett ridicules her actions, comparing them to memes and accusing her of trivializing serious issues through performative gestures (31:12).
6. Foreign Policy Insights with Nick Soleim
Greenland Acquisition Debate
In an insightful segment, Nick Soleim discusses the strategic importance of Greenland and the United States’ potential acquisition of the territory. He outlines historical attempts by the U.S. to acquire Greenland and emphasizes the region’s vast resources and inadequate Danish defense. Kennett and Soleim debate the implications of such a move, considering geopolitical tensions with China and the benefits of establishing a strong U.S. presence in the North Atlantic (39:52).
Critique of Danish Governance
Soleim criticizes Denmark’s lackluster investment in Greenland’s economy and infrastructure, highlighting the strained relationship between Greenlanders and the Danish government. Kennett adds that Danish companies, like Maersk, have consistently turned down investment opportunities in Greenland, exacerbating the territory’s vulnerabilities (52:34).
7. Family Values and Societal Observations
Comparisons with Greenlandic Families
Kennett shares his observations from Greenland, noting the strong family bonds and community-oriented lifestyles of Greenlanders. He contrasts this with what he perceives as the fragmented and individualistic nature of American family life, advocating for a return to traditional family values as a cornerstone of conservatism (54:07).
8. Audience Mail and Q&A
Foreign Policy and Isolationism
Listener David questions whether the U.S. should exit the prolonged Russo-Ukrainian conflict. Kennett responds by advocating for a strategic approach to foreign policy, emphasizing the need to define clear objectives and maintain a strong stance against Russian imperialism without necessarily “propping up” Ukraine (64:19).
Charging Former Presidents
Lucy inquires if former President Obama can be charged in a military court for alleged crimes. Kennett explains the legal impossibilities, noting that Obama cannot be prosecuted in a military court without evidence of acting on behalf of a foreign power. He also speculates that Obama would likely enjoy presidential immunity similar to Trump’s (65:45).
Democrats’ Lack of Ideological Cohesion
Ms. Hood asks why Democrats lack a unifying spokesperson. Kennett attributes this to the party’s fragmented focus on identity politics over substantive ideology, suggesting that without a cohesive platform, Democrats struggle to present a unified front (66:37).
Nuclear Waste Concerns
Renata Earls raises concerns about nuclear waste from clean energy initiatives. Kennett dismisses these fears, detailing the minimal and manageable nature of nuclear waste produced and proposing solutions like space disposal and advanced recycling methods (66:52).
Personal Remarks and Voice Acting
Kennett addresses a listener’s comment about his resemblance to J.D. Vance, weaving humor into his response and highlighting his penchant for voice acting and accents during the show’s segments (64:25).
Conclusion
In this episode, Tony Kennett provides a critical examination of the declining state of liberal media, the disarray within Democratic leadership, and pivotal foreign policy considerations such as the strategic importance of Greenland. Through sharp wit and unfiltered commentary, Kennett underscores the challenges conservatives face in a rapidly changing political and media environment. The episode's blend of serious analysis and satirical segments offers listeners a thorough and engaging exploration of current national issues.
Notable Quotes:
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Tony Kennett on Media Matters:
“Media Matters is not making tons of money anymore… you just blame it on a Nazi fascist takeover of the media” (04:30). -
Kennett on Cable News Ratings:
“When Jasper, the YouTube channel alone on the week of July 14th scored better ratings during primetime than CNN” (05:20). -
On Democratic Leadership:
“We are almost to the point where we are a year after the last presidential election, the Democrats still have no leadership at all” (18:05). -
Justice Kagan’s Condemnation:
“When some of my colleagues... there will be new vulnerabilities” (15:16). -
Kennett on Family Values:
“Conservatism has to mean something. If you're not conserving the way your parents raised you… you're not really conserving anything at all” (56:28).
This episode encapsulates the ongoing struggles and strategic discussions essential for understanding the current political and media climate, providing valuable insights for listeners seeking a conservative perspective.
