Post-Election Analysis: The Rewards of Authenticity and Hard Work

In the November 7, 2024 episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show, hosts Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler engage in a spirited discussion following Donald Trump's unexpected electoral victory. Recorded on November 6th, the day after Election Day, the episode delves into historical comparisons, critiques of current political dynamics, media influence, and the future trajectory of American politics.

1. Introduction: Reflecting on the Election Night

The conversation kicks off with Jack Fowler expressing excitement about the recording and hinting at the significant developments from Election Day.

Jack Fowler: "Something happened yesterday, Victor. Something dang important." [01:42]

2. Historical Parallel: The 1980 Election

Victor draws parallels between Trump's victory and Ronald Reagan's triumph in 1980, highlighting voter fatigue and trust in a candidate who resonated authenticity and hard work.

Victor Davis Hansen: "I think he's probably going to get 53 seats, maybe 54. He's going to retain the House and he's going to win the popular vote. They haven't won that since 2004." [07:29]

3. Trump’s Unexpected Triumph

Despite predictions and media skepticism, Trump's campaign succeeded by appealing directly to voters tired of the status quo, emphasizing hard work and authenticity over political polish.

Victor Davis Hansen: "They thought he couldn't win. He can't win. He's a loser. George Will wrote that. Every column." [07:29]

4. Critique of Democratic Policies and Leadership

The hosts discuss how Democratic policies—ranging from border control failures to electric vehicle mandates—alienated key voter demographics, contributing to their loss.

Victor Davis Hansen: "I'm sick of EV mandates. You know what's really funny, Jack? There were so many." [22:43]

5. Media Bias and the Legacy Media's Downfall

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the legacy media’s relentless negative portrayal of Trump, which ironically may have fueled his support by creating a backlash against perceived media elitism.

Victor Davis Hansen: "You know, and how they didn't believe the President United States called half the country garbage." [69:25]

6. Transformation of the Republican Party

Victor elaborates on the Republican Party's shift towards Trumpism, arguing that traditional Republicans were sidelined in favor of Trump's unconventional approach, leading to internal conflicts and external perceptions of the party.

Victor Davis Hansen: "Trump was a traditional Republican in many ways. He cared about the middle class and they didn't." [51:08]

7. Future Political Landscape: House and Impeachments

The conversation shifts to the potential outcomes in the House of Representatives, with implications of continued Democratic control leading to possible impeachments and ongoing investigations into Trump.

Victor Davis Hansen: "If they win the house in two years, they will impeach Donald Trump just like they did last time." [57:35]

8. Kamala Harris’s Campaign Strategies

Hanson critiques Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign efforts, describing them as insincere and disconnected from voter concerns, which he believes contributed to Democratic losses.

Victor Davis Hansen: "She was a mediocre senator... she could have pulled off your coup later, but maybe she shouldn't." [17:04]

9. Internal GOP Dynamics and Media Personalities

The hosts discuss the internal strife within the GOP, mentioning figures like Bill Kristol and George Will, who struggled to reconcile their traditional views with the party's new direction under Trump.

Victor Davis Hansen: "There is no never Trump. There is only former Republicans who went crazy." [51:27]

10. Defense Policies and the Revolving Door

Hanson criticizes the intertwining of defense contractors with political figures, advocating for structural reforms to eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure objective defense strategies.

Victor Davis Hansen: "The revolving door. Whether it's Raytheon or Lockheed or General Dynamics, Armstrong Rope. It's got to stop." [80:51]

11. Personal Reflections and Anecdotes

Victor shares personal stories, including his son's political awakening influenced by media personalities like Joe Rogan and his own experiences with IRS disputes, illustrating the broader frustrations with governmental institutions.

Victor Davis Hansen: "My son started listening to the regular, you know, Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan... he called me those memes where that crazy woman is screaming." [32:16]

12. Conclusion: The Rewards of Authenticity and Hard Work

In his closing remarks, Victor commends voters who remained steadfast and authentic, emphasizing that their dedication and hard work were pivotal in securing the election outcome.

Victor Davis Hansen: "You knew your vote would matter. And you voted. And the result is on the TV today. So congratulations." [91:31]

Throughout the episode, Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler emphasize the importance of authenticity in leadership, critique the current state of media and political parties, and forecast significant shifts in the American political landscape. Their analysis underscores a belief that genuine connection with voters and resilience against media bias were key factors in Trump's electoral success.

Notable Quotes:

• Jack Fowler: "Something happened yesterday, Victor. Something dang important." [01:42]

• Victor Davis Hansen: "You knew your vote would matter. And you voted. And the result is on the TV today. So congratulations." [91:31]

• Victor Davis Hansen: "They thought he couldn't win. He can't win. He's a loser. George Will wrote that. Every column." [07:29]

• Victor Davis Hansen: "I'm sick of EV mandates." [22:43]

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the episode's key discussions, ensuring clarity and engagement for those who did not listen to the podcast.