The Victor Davis Hanson Show
Episode: Goldberg Leak, Crockett Crass, and PBS Mea Culpa
Release Date: March 28, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show, hosts Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler delve into a series of pressing political and social issues. From the contentious leak involving Jeffrey Goldberg to the abrasive rhetoric of Democratic figures like Jasmine Crockett, and the recent admissions from PBS and NPR leaders, the discussion is both robust and unfiltered.
Goldberg Leak and Its Implications
Timestamp: [03:17]
Victor Hanson begins by dissecting a complex narrative surrounding a leak to Jeffrey Goldberg concerning a strike against the Houthis. He criticizes the handling of confidential communications, emphasizing the supposed negligence of key Trump administration figures who failed to properly secure sensitive information.
"So it's very reminiscent of General Stanley McChrystal... under Article 88, if you publicly disparage the president of the United States..." - Victor Davis Hanson
Hanson draws parallels between historical military leaks and the current situation, highlighting potential breaches in national security protocols. He underscores the need for intensive investigations to hold accountable those who may have compromised confidential communications.
Successful Houthi Strike and Regional Stability
Timestamp: [19:32]
Hanson shifts focus to the recent successful military strike against the Houthis, praising its efficacy in reclaiming control over the Red Sea. He notes that such actions are pivotal in restoring freedom of navigation and countering Iranian influence in the region.
"They used jet aircraft, which were much with smart weaponry... I think they're going to lose their power grid." - Victor Davis Hanson
He anticipates that this military move will weaken Houthi capabilities and reduce their support from regional powers like Iran, thereby contributing to greater regional stability.
Jasmine Crockett’s Controversial Remarks
Timestamp: [23:50]
The discussion turns to Jasmine Crockett, a rising figure in the Democratic Party, who has recently made derogatory comments about Governor Abbott. Hanson condemns her remarks, particularly her insensitive reference to Abbott's paralysis.
"She also said he was not hot. He's a mess. And then she lied and said she was not referring to his tragic accident..." - Victor Davis Hanson
Hanson criticizes Crockett's lack of empathy and questions her suitability as a leader, suggesting that such crassness undermines the Democratic Party's credibility.
Democratic Party’s Strategy and Internal Conflicts
Timestamp: [35:49]
Victor Hanson analyzes the Democratic Party's internal dynamics, pointing out the high approval ratings of media outlets like CNN despite significant losses in elections. He attributes this to the party's focus on radicalism and confrontation rather than addressing core issues affecting the middle and lower classes.
"They have a big megaphone... But they're bleeding. They're bleeding." - Victor Davis Hanson
Hanson argues that the Democratic leadership is out of touch with the electorate, emphasizing policies that alienate key demographics such as African American and Hispanic males, who have shown increasing support for Trump.
Immigration Rulings and Their Impact
Timestamp: [40:16]
The conversation shifts to recent judicial rulings mandating the continuation of refugee admissions under Biden’s administration. Hanson critiques these decisions, suggesting that the incoming influx of immigrants may not align with genuine refugee criteria and instead serves corporate interests.
"Why don't you do this? Judges, why don't you say that if somebody came in here illegally and they're residing illegally, then it's legal to rectify that illegality and send them back?" - Victor Davis Hanson
He calls for stricter immigration controls and accountability among judges to prevent what he perceives as overreach in immigration policies.
Trump’s Foreign Investment and Economic Policies
Timestamp: [50:35]
Hanson discusses former President Donald Trump's efforts to attract foreign investment back to the United States through tariff policies. Highlighting Hyundai's significant investment in a new steel plant, he underscores the potential for job creation and economic revitalization.
"He's saying, let's just try to help the middle class... If Elon can cut 500 billion and he can get this $3 trillion in investment here and he can deregulate..." - Victor Davis Hanson
He praises Trump's approach as a means to strengthen the middle class and reduce dependence on foreign economies, positioning it as a countermeasure against globalization’s adverse effects on American manufacturing and employment.
PBS and NPR Leadership Admissions
Timestamp: [63:37]
In a critical examination of public broadcasting, Hanson addresses recent admissions by NPR and PBS CEOs regarding their handling of controversial stories, particularly the laptop story. He accuses these organizations of bias and failure to pursue journalistic integrity.
"When you look at the Wall Street Journal... They have a big megaphone... But they're bleeding. They're bleeding." - Victor Davis Hanson
Hanson contends that PBS and NPR are outdated institutions struggling to compete in the modern media landscape, arguing that federal funding should be reevaluated given their perceived lack of objectivity and relevance.
Animal Abuse and Public Safety Concerns
Timestamp: [77:32]
The hosts discuss a recent FBI crackdown on a dog fighting ring led by an ex-NFL player. Hanson shares personal anecdotes about the dangers posed by stray and aggressive dogs, particularly pit bulls, advocating for stricter animal control measures.
"Once I saw my then 6 year old daughter going out there and the pit bull was so kind. And then the next day..." - Victor Davis Hanson
He emphasizes the need for accountability among dog owners and the importance of preventing animal abuse to ensure community safety.
California’s Socioeconomic Decline
Timestamp: [83:00]
Victor Hanson responds to listener Michael Chu’s critique of California’s deteriorating socioeconomic landscape. He paints a bleak picture of the state’s policies leading to increased poverty, homelessness, and high taxes, likening it to a medieval society with vast inequality.
"It's a medieval society... They think they're God on earth, they're heaven on earth. And they're not, they're increasingly satanic." - Victor Davis Hanson
Hanson laments the loss of the middle class and the overwhelming influence of wealthy elites in California, advocating for policy reforms to restore balance and affordability.
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler provide a critical lens on current political and social issues, emphasizing accountability, economic revitalization, and the importance of maintaining national security. Hanson’s perspectives challenge prevailing narratives, urging listeners to reconsider mainstream media portrayals and advocate for policies that support the middle class and uphold traditional values.
Notable Quotes
- "We're going to attack your endowment because you're not nonprofit, disinterested to your ideological factors." - Victor Davis Hanson ([67:59])
- "They think they’re God on earth, they’re heaven on earth. And they’re not, they’re increasingly satanic." - Victor Davis Hanson ([83:00])
- "We have all the money, we owe. We can address it." - Victor Davis Hanson ([57:02])
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn by Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler. The inclusion of notable quotes with timestamps provides listeners with direct excerpts that underscore the hosts' viewpoints.