The Victor Davis Hanson Show - Episode: "Terror Attack, Kash, and Homeless" (Released January 3, 2025)

In this compelling episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show, hosts Victor Davis Hanson and Jack Fowler delve deep into pressing national security issues, critique current administrative policies, and explore the ongoing homelessness crisis in California. The episode, titled "Terror Attack, Kash, and Homeless," offers a robust discussion filled with insightful analysis, notable quotes, and thought-provoking conclusions.

1. Recent Terrorist Attacks and Administration Response

The episode opens with Hanson and Fowler addressing two recent terrorist incidents: a tragic attack in New Orleans during New Year's Eve celebrations that resulted in 15 fatalities, and a bomb explosion outside Trump Tower in Las Vegas. Hanson highlights the similarities between these events and others globally, questioning the current administration's capability to effectively handle such threats.

Victor Davis Hanson [01:42]: "This administration is not up to it, just like the Obama administration is not up to it. Policing our borders, deterring terrorists."

Hanson criticizes President Biden's focus on foreign engagements over domestic security, suggesting that his frequent absences from the White House undermine national safety efforts.

2. Critique of FBI and DEI Policies

Hanson further critiques the FBI's response to the attacks, pointing out the delayed and confused statements from FBI Director Christopher Wray. He argues that institutional policies, particularly those influenced by Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, have weakened law enforcement effectiveness.

Victor Davis Hanson [03:17]: "The administration has open borders and we know that it has institutionalized DEI."

He contends that DEI policies dilute the FBI's ability to respond decisively to threats, citing the mishandling of initial terrorist classifications as evidence of systemic failings.

3. Immigration, Radicalization, and Terrorism

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the link between immigration policies, cultural assimilation challenges, and the rise of radicalization among certain immigrant groups. Hanson posits that DEI's victim-centric approach inadvertently fosters resentment among immigrants, making them more susceptible to extremist ideologies.

Victor Davis Hanson [06:50]: "As they start to absorb American culture, they start making excuses for the unhappiness in their own lives... they rediscover Islam as a crutch, as a refuge, as an escape."

He emphasizes that frustration and lack of opportunity can lead individuals to blame systemic issues, ultimately channeling their anger into violent actions.

4. Defunding the Police and Law Enforcement Challenges

The conversation shifts to the impact of "defunding the police" and the broader "woke" movement on law enforcement's ability to maintain public safety. Hanson argues that reduced police budgets and heightened accountability concerns have created an environment where officers are hesitant to act decisively.

Victor Davis Hanson [11:06]: "We're in the aftermath of defund the police... hesitation, a reluctance."

He warns that this lack of confidence and support within police forces hampers their capacity to respond effectively to emergencies, as evidenced by a recent incident where a woman was attacked in the subway with little police intervention.

5. Commutation of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed's Sentence

Hanson critiques the Biden administration's decision to commute the plea deal of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the orchestrator of the 9/11 attacks. He expresses outrage over the administration's inability to uphold legal commitments, arguing that it sends a dangerous message about accountability for mass murderers.

Victor Davis Hanson [18:13]: "Here you have a mass murderer responsible for killing 3,000 people, and we can't carry out his sentence."

He contends that such actions undermine the justice system and embolden future terrorists.

6. Israel-Gaza Conflict and International Organizations

The hosts examine Israel's renewed military operations in Gaza and criticize the World Health Organization (WHO) for siding with Hamas. Hanson argues that international organizations often unfairly support terrorist groups, undermining global security.

Victor Davis Hanson [22:25]: "World Health Organization has weighed in on behalf of Hamas... they're siding with Hamas."

He urges stronger support for Israel and condemns organizations that fail to hold Hamas accountable for its actions.

7. Appointment of Kash Patel as FBI Director

Hanson discusses the controversial appointment of Kash Patel as the FBI Director, noting the protests from staffers and the broader implications for the agency's future. He anticipates that Patel's leadership will mark a significant shift towards more robust and uncompromising law enforcement strategies.

Victor Davis Hanson [30:38]: "This paves the way for confirmations... Kash Patel at FBI, Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence..."

He underscores the need for competent leadership to restore the FBI's effectiveness amidst rising security threats.

8. Homelessness Crisis in California Under Governor Gavin Newsom

A substantial segment is dedicated to the worsening homelessness situation in California, despite Governor Gavin Newsom's $27 billion expenditure aimed at alleviating the issue. Hanson criticizes the misallocation of funds and the ineffectiveness of current policies, arguing that Newsom's approach has only exacerbated the problem.

Victor Davis Hanson [34:21]: "California could have built two fleet carriers... but we spend it on homeless people."

He calls for alternative solutions, such as direct financial assistance to the homeless, and highlights the political instability caused by Newsom's policies.

9. Political Implications and Future Outlook

In the concluding sections, Hanson reflects on the broader political landscape, expressing skepticism about the left's continued influence and the resilience of extremist groups. He remains pessimistic about the likelihood of civil war but warns of the left's potential resurgence.

Victor Davis Hanson [54:25]: "I never thought there'd be a violent civil war. I still don't."

Hanson emphasizes the necessity for a balanced and pragmatic approach to governance, advocating for policies that prioritize national security, economic stability, and social cohesion.

Notable Quotes:

• [02:12] Victor Davis Hanson: "The first is this administration is not up to it... Policing our borders, deterring terrorists."

• [06:07] Victor Davis Hanson: "They understand that they have plugged into the DEI industry and they are victims. You cannot criticize them on the basis of what they do."

• [14:09] Victor Davis Hanson: "This is a society without consequences."

• [22:46] Victor Davis Hanson: "They would have just bombed the hospital. But they're now being blamed by the World Health Organization for attacking a medical facility."

• [34:21] Victor Davis Hanson: "California could have built two fleet carriers... but we spend it on homeless people."

Conclusion

This episode of The Victor Davis Hanson Show provides a critical examination of the United States' current challenges in national security, law enforcement, immigration policies, and social welfare. Through incisive analysis and pointed critiques, Hanson and Fowler underscore the urgent need for policy reforms to address these multifaceted issues effectively.

For more insights and detailed discussions, listeners can visit Victor's website at victorhansen.com or follow him on social media platforms like X and Facebook.