The Victor Davis Hanson Show Episode: Mexico, MeToo No More, the Left’s Meager Pickin’s Release Date: March 6, 2025

Overview

In this compelling episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show, hosts Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler delve into pressing political and social issues shaping contemporary America. The discussion navigates through the complexities of U.S.-Mexico relations, the ramifications of the MeToo movement, and a critical analysis of the current left-wing strategies. With incisive commentary and insightful perspectives, Hanson and Fowler unpack the challenges and dynamics at the heart of these contentious topics.

U.S.-Mexico Relations and Pete Hegseth’s Stance Timestamp: [07:20]

The episode opens with an in-depth conversation about former military leader Pete Hegseth’s assertive remarks on U.S.-Mexico relations. Hegseth has been vocal about the need for America to take a firmer stance against Mexico's inability to control violent gangs and the influx of drugs, particularly fentanyl, crossing the border. Hanson draws historical parallels to the U.S. military interventions in Mexico during the early 20th century, highlighting the persistent challenges in curbing cartel activities.

Victor Davis Hanson ([08:00]): "The problem is Mexico is not in full control of their own country... Over the past decade, cartel profits have siphoned off nearly $270 billion from the United States."

Hanson emphasizes the economic and security implications, citing how cartel-driven drug trade and illegal immigration have strained U.S. resources and border integrity. The hosts discuss Mexico’s complex relationship with China, trade imbalances, and the political maneuvers that complicate bilateral efforts to address these issues.

The MeToo Movement and Its Impact on Society Timestamp: [17:14]

Transitioning to the MeToo movement, Hanson critiques its influence on societal norms and the perception of masculinity. He argues that the movement has inadvertently contributed to a climate of distrust and fear among young men, leading to a decline in traditional courtship and family structures.

Victor Davis Hanson ([19:44]): "Young men are being told they're sexual assailants, toxic masculinity, and they've kind of dropped out."

Hanson discusses the broader cultural conflicts arising from the movement, including the tension between progressive sexual ethics and the traditional values upheld by many Americans. He also touches on high-profile cases and their ramifications on due process and personal reputations.

Critique of Left-Wing Strategies and Democratic Policies Timestamp: [22:07]

The conversation shifts to a critical analysis of the Democratic Party’s strategies and policies. Hanson contends that the left lacks a cohesive alternative agenda, relying instead on partisan tactics and cultural warfare to maintain power. He references Mark Halperin’s observations on the inability of Democrats to grasp the widespread MAGA movement's motivations and the frustration stemming from perceived governmental overreach.

Victor Davis Hanson ([25:37]): "The current left is not left. They're Jacobin revolutionary people who want perpetual power."

Hanson outlines what he perceives as the left's transactional approach to governance, highlighting issues such as the filibuster, electoral reforms, and judiciary appointments as mere tools to consolidate power rather than genuine policy initiatives aimed at national betterment.

Jeff Bezos and the Transformation of the Washington Post Timestamp: [38:26]

A notable segment discusses Jeff Bezos’s acquisition of The Washington Post and his subsequent editorial policy changes. Hanson praises Bezos for steering the publication towards a focus on free markets and free speech, distancing it from what he describes as "left-wing lunatics."

Victor Davis Hanson ([59:10]): "Jeff Bezos... changed the editorial policy. We're only going to talk about free expression and the wonderful capital system."

This shift has led to discontent among traditional pundits and contributors who align with leftist ideologies, causing resignations and controversies within the publication. Hanson views this as a positive move towards journalistic integrity and economic realism.

Campus Activism and Anti-Israel Protests Timestamp: [67:00]

Hanson and Fowler address the escalating activism on college campuses, specifically highlighting recent incidents at Barnard College and Columbia University. They criticize the anti-Israel protests and the disruptive tactics employed by student activists, arguing that such actions undermine academic integrity and safety.

Victor Davis Hanson ([68:52]): "Anyone that thinks this BS happening on campus is over, that the anti-Semitic students on campus is over. It's not over."

Hanson underscores the importance of enforcing university policies and legal measures to maintain order and protect the rights of all students, emphasizing that passive tolerance of such disruptions only emboldens extremist behavior.

Listener Feedback and Final Thoughts Timestamp: [75:54]

Towards the end, the hosts share listener feedback, highlighting appreciation for the show’s insights and its role in providing clarity amidst societal turmoil. They touch upon personal anecdotes related to fitness and pet ownership, adding a relatable and personable dimension to the discourse.

Listener Comment (Timestamps vary): "I owe VDH a huge debt of gratitude for keeping me sane during the incredible turmoil of the past few years... Today's episode about the complexities of the Ukraine war and the dynamics around Trump's efforts to end it was incredibly insightful."

Hanson echoes the sentiment, reaffirming his commitment to addressing critical issues and fostering informed discussions to guide listeners through complex political landscapes.

Conclusion

This episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show offers a thorough examination of U.S.-Mexico relations, the unintended consequences of the MeToo movement, and a sharp critique of left-wing political strategies. Through historical context and contemporary analysis, Hanson and Fowler provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of these multifaceted issues, encouraging informed discourse and proactive solutions.

Notable Quotes:

• [08:00] Victor Davis Hanson: "The problem is Mexico is not in full control of their own country... Over the past decade, cartel profits have siphoned off nearly $270 billion from the United States."

• [19:44] Victor Davis Hanson: "Young men are being told they're sexual assailants, toxic masculinity, and they've kind of dropped out."

• [25:37] Victor Davis Hanson: "The current left is not left. They're Jacobin revolutionary people who want perpetual power."

• [59:10] Victor Davis Hanson: "Jeff Bezos... changed the editorial policy. We're only going to talk about free expression and the wonderful capital system."

• [68:52] Victor Davis Hanson: "Anyone that thinks this BS happening on campus is over, that the anti-Semitic students on campus is over. It's not over."