Podcast Summary: "And, This is Secretary Leon Panetta"
Podcast Information:
- Title: This is Gavin Newsom
- Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
- Episode: And, This is Secretary Leon Panetta
- Release Date: July 1, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of "This is Gavin Newsom," Governor Gavin Newsom engages in an in-depth conversation with former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. The discussion navigates through critical national and state issues, providing listeners with insights from Panetta's extensive experience in government and defense.
Deployment of Military Personnel in Los Angeles
The episode opens with Newsom addressing the significant deployment of nearly 5,000 military personnel, including federalized National Guard members and active-duty Marines, to the streets of Los Angeles. This deployment raises important questions about the role and mission of the military at the state level.
Notable Quote:
- Gavin Newsom (02:48): “... thousands and thousands of former National Guard men and women that were working to do drug interdiction, working on the border on behalf of the state...”
Panetta responds by emphasizing the traditional role of the military in defending against foreign adversaries, expressing concern over their use in law enforcement and state-level missions.
Notable Quote:
- Leon Panetta (04:32): “...the role of the military is basically to defend this country from foreign adversaries...”
Politicization of the Military and Recent Events
The conversation delves into recent events, including President Trump's speech at Fort Bragg, which featured a military parade intertwined with political campaigning. Panetta criticizes this fusion of military presence with political agendas, arguing it undermines the integrity and respect owed to military personnel.
Notable Quotes:
- Gavin Newsom (09:30): “...the President of the United States... using them for political purposes...”
- Leon Panetta (11:06): “...the President needs to respect the role of our men and women in uniform, not use them for political purposes...”
Panetta underscores the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between the military's role and political activities to preserve national security and public trust.
Dysfunction in Congress and Bipartisanship
Shifting focus to the legislative branch, Newsom and Panetta explore the current state of Congress, highlighting its diminished role as a check on executive power. Panetta laments the lack of bipartisan cooperation, contrasting it with past eras where Democrats and Republicans worked together to achieve significant legislative milestones.
Notable Quotes:
- Leon Panetta (20:18): “...the institutions they created to provide that check and balance, they themselves are being tested. Congress... are not standing up and really being a check in our system right now.”
- Gavin Newsom (26:23): “...what’s your assessment, where we are and how the hell do we get out of this moment?”
Panetta reflects on his tenure in Congress, recalling successful bipartisan efforts during the Clinton administration, and expresses concern over the increasing partisanship that hampers effective governance.
Historical Cooperation vs. Present Partisanship
Panetta shares anecdotes from his time working with notable political figures like Newt Gingrich, illustrating how cooperation was once achievable even amidst political differences. He attributes the current political gridlock to a departure from these collaborative principles, emphasizing the need for leadership that prioritizes consensus over crisis-driven governance.
Notable Quotes:
- Leon Panetta (34:02): “...Newt was really struggling to try to get the Republicans in power and he was willing to undermine the institution of the House of Representatives...”
- Gavin Newsom (43:41): “...the American people believe in American values and they believe in the rule of law and they believe in the Constitution. That’s why this country is going to survive.”
Panetta remains hopeful that the foundational values of democracy and the active participation of citizens can restore functional governance.
Assault on Knowledge and Censorship Concerns
The discussion transitions to contemporary challenges within military academies, particularly the reported censorship and book bans at institutions like West Point. Panetta voices his concern over attempts to limit exposure to diverse viewpoints, arguing that such actions undermine the openness and educational integrity essential for preparing future military leaders.
Notable Quotes:
- Leon Panetta (40:39): “...the ability to listen, the ability to have a say, the ability to enjoy different points of view is what our freedom, what the American dream is all about.”
- Leon Panetta (43:41): “...we are going to get back to the values of our democracy that made us strong.”
Panetta emphasizes that embracing diverse perspectives is crucial for maintaining the strength and resilience of democratic institutions.
Closing Thoughts: Optimism for Democracy
Despite highlighting significant challenges, both Newsom and Panetta conclude the episode with an optimistic outlook. Panetta stresses the enduring strength of American democratic values and the pivotal role of informed and active citizenship in overcoming political and institutional crises.
Notable Quotes:
- Leon Panetta (44:50): “I really do believe that ultimately the American people do not want a king as president. They want a president who understands that his oath to the Constitution has to come first.”
- Gavin Newsom (48:42): “I'm going to bookmark that. That's a point of optimism.”
Panetta’s faith in the American people’s ability to uphold democratic principles serves as a beacon of hope for restoring functional and balanced governance.
Conclusion
This episode of "This is Gavin Newsom" offers a thorough examination of the intersections between military deployment, political integrity, congressional functionality, and educational freedoms within military institutions. Through the seasoned perspective of Leon Panetta, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the current political landscape and the pathways toward reinforcing the democratic framework.