Podcast Summary: The Victor Davis Hanson Show
Episode: Left-leaning Politicos With Eyes Wide Open and WWII Defense of the Soviets
Release Date: November 2, 2024
Hosts: Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler

Introduction

In this episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show, hosts Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler delve into contemporary political dynamics, focusing on the Washington Post's decision not to endorse any candidate and its implications. Additionally, they explore the intricacies of the upcoming elections in Pennsylvania and conclude with an in-depth analysis of the German invasion of Russia during World War II.

Washington Post's Endorsement Decision

Discussion on Jeff Bezos and the Washington Post:

Victor Davis Hanson begins by addressing Jeff Bezos's decision to instruct the Washington Post not to endorse any candidate, highlighting the financial strains faced by the publication.

[04:26] Victor Davis Hansen: "They think that these publishers and owners are just, what, anonymous race or ghost, they don't exist... we are not going to get into the politics because I have businesses to run."

Hanson criticizes the Washington Post for its repetitive and biased coverage, suggesting that economic losses prompted the editorial shift.

[07:51] Victor Davis Hansen: "They think they own it."

He further discusses the lack of humility among Washington Post columnists and the unrealistic expectations of their market value, emphasizing that the publication's decline is a direct result of persistent bias.

[11:42] Victor Davis Hansen: "I don't think they could be liberal as they were in the past... They're just blatant."

Hanson underscores that the Washington Post's loss of integrity has led to decreased readership and substantial financial losses.

Pennsylvania Elections Analysis

Fetterman's Concerns and Polling Insights:

Transitioning to the political landscape in Pennsylvania, Hanson analyzes recent statements by Fetterman regarding Trump's support base in the state.

[18:48] Victor Davis Hansen: "He's starting to see the rallies are very good. This is where he was almost killed."

Hanson explains that Fetterman's observation reflects a broader pattern where quiet support may be more substantial than overt enthusiasm. He also critiques polling methodologies, suggesting that certain polls may be skewed to favor one candidate.

[22:03] Victor Davis Hansen: "He seems to be finishing much better than her, but of course, we have three days left to go, so who knows what."

Hanson posits that Trump might have a better chance than polls suggest, especially in battleground states like Pennsylvania.

World War II: German Invasion of Russia

Historical Analysis:

In the middle segment, Victor Davis Hansen provides a comprehensive overview of the German invasion of Russia, discussing the strategic miscalculations and logistical challenges that led to Germany's downfall.

[27:57] Victor Davis Hansen: "They were using the calculus of World War I... They didn't understand there was at least 4 million other troops that could join the fray."

Hanson outlines seven key factors contributing to Germany's failure, including overextension, lack of intelligence on Soviet equipment, inadequate winter preparations, and the massive influx of Soviet troops bolstered by Allied aid.

He details the turning points, such as the Battle of Stalingrad and Operation Bagration, which marked the beginning of Germany's retreat and eventual collapse.

[44:26] Victor Davis Hansen: "World War II is largely a story of Germans and Japanese killing Russians, Jews and Chinese."

Hanson emphasizes the pivotal role of Allied support in sustaining the Soviet Union's war effort, arguing that without it, the outcome of the war might have been drastically different.

Contemporary Political Issues

Abortion and Women's Votes:

The hosts shift focus to current political campaigns, specifically addressing Gretchen Whitmer's appeal to women voters through the abortion issue.

[52:59] Victor Davis Hansen: "Yes. And does that really buy her a lot of women votes?"

Hanson critiques the narrow focus on abortion, arguing that it fails to address broader concerns affecting women, such as economic stability and safety.

[60:38] Victor Davis Hansen: "The black community is still voting 75% for unlimited abortions for a party that has a history of using abortion as sort of a selective Darwinism."

He connects historical movements to present-day political strategies, highlighting the complexity and divisiveness surrounding the abortion debate.

Antisemitism and Political Rhetoric:

Hanson and Fowler discuss a contentious article from Newsweek claiming Trump poses a danger to American Jews. Hanson refutes these claims by presenting evidence of Trump's support for Jewish communities and his administration's policies favoring Israel.

[61:32] Victor Davis Hansen: "Trump did things that make you very unpopular in the Middle East with Arab American and Muslim communities and with Europe..."

He argues that antisemitic incidents are more prevalent within left-leaning groups rather than stemming from Trump's base.

[66:59] Victor Davis Hansen: "I saw Ben Shapiro posters and they had begone with an insecticide can IE Holocaust gas... it's left wing, left wing, left wing, left wing."

Immigration and Assimilation

Listener's Concerns and Societal Integration:

Addressing a listener's concern about losing faith in the democratic process, Hanson emphasizes the importance of staying engaged rather than abandoning the country.

[69:16] Victor Davis Hansen: "I would very carefully and investigate what life is like in Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, etc."

He discusses the challenges of immigration, stressing the necessity of assimilation and cultural integration for societal harmony.

[76:52] Victor Davis Hansen: "And I am with you on that... We are enriched under those conditions with immigrants."

Hanson advocates for measured and legal immigration policies that promote diversity without compromising national cohesion.

Conclusion

In this episode, Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler provide a multifaceted discussion covering media bias, electoral strategies, historical warfare analysis, and pressing social issues such as abortion and immigration. Through incisive commentary and evidence-based arguments, they offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of both historical events and their contemporary implications.

Notable Quotes:

1. Victor Davis Hansen on Washington Post’s Strategy:

   "[04:26] They think that these publishers and owners are just, what, anonymous race or ghost, they don't exist..."

2. Hanson on Polling in Pennsylvania:

   "[22:03] He seems to be finishing much better than her, but of course, we have three days left to go, so who knows what."

3. Historical Insight on WWII:

   "[27:57] They were using the calculus of World War I... They didn't understand there was at least 4 million other troops that could join the fray."

4. On Abortion and Political Strategy:

   "[52:59] Yes. And does that really buy her a lot of women votes?"

5. Refuting Antisemitism Claims:

   "[66:59] Yeah, it sure does."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the episode, providing a clear and comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the podcast.