Today, Explained: When Carter Called Out America

Released on December 30, 2024 by Vox

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Today, Explained, hosts Sean Ramis and Noel King delve deep into one of President Jimmy Carter's most pivotal moments—the so-called "Malaise" speech. Accompanied by historian and author Kevin Matson, the episode unpacks the significance of Carter's address, its impact on American society, and its lasting legacy on political discourse.

President Carter’s Crisis of Confidence Speech

On a hot summer night in 1979, President Jimmy Carter took to the Oval Office television to address the nation amidst growing economic and social turmoil. This speech, often mislabeled as the "Malaise" speech, tackled the undercurrents of America's discontent without ever vocalizing the term "malaise."

Sean Ramis [00:00]: "Most people refer to it as the Malaise speech, even though he never says the word well."

Addressing Consumerism and Individualism

Carter confronted the burgeoning issues of consumerism and individualism, arguing that America’s relentless pursuit of material wealth was leading to an unsustainable and fractured society.

Kevin Matson [00:34]: "Capitalism, consumerism and the want of things was creating an unsustainable world... pointing to Americans that something had to be changed in the way that they behaved on a daily basis."

Historian insights reveal Carter's emphasis on a "crisis of confidence" that threatened the nation's very soul.

Historian [00:43]: "It is a crisis that strikes at the very heart and soul and spirit of our national world."

The 1979 Energy Crisis and Public Reaction

The speech was delivered against the backdrop of the 1979 energy crisis, marked by long gasoline lines and widespread shortages that incited frustration and desperation among Americans.

Kevin Matson [04:14]: "It's July 15, 1979. The thing that Carter just stated is pointing to something that's really disturbing to a lot of Americans, which are these long gas lines that are forming at gas stations."

The chaos at gas stations epitomized the erosion of social order, with instances of violence and selfishness highlighting the depth of the crisis.

Kevin Matson [04:42]: "People are getting fist fights... total chaos."

Carter’s Call for Sacrifice and Unity

Carter proposed tangible solutions, urging Americans to adopt energy conservation measures and reduce reliance on foreign oil. He exemplified personal commitment by installing solar panels on the White House and advocating for everyday sacrifices.

Kevin Matson [06:26]: "He did install solar panels on the White House... he's actually putting his money where his mouth is."

Carter's rhetoric was imbued with a sense of urgency and responsibility, framing the nation's challenges as a collective struggle requiring unified action.

Historian [07:33]: "This is not a message of happiness or reassurance, but it is the truth, and it is a war."

Immediate Impact and Public Response

Initially, the speech garnered a positive response, with Carter's approval ratings increasing as Americans expressed willingness to heed his call for change.

Kevin Matson [16:25]: "The speech boosts Carter's polling by about 10%. People react favorably and say, yeah, I'm ready to do this."

However, the tide quickly turned as Carter's decision to fire his entire cabinet shortly after the speech led to a sharp decline in his popularity.

Kevin Matson [17:06]: "Jimmy Carter fires his entire cabinet... his polls drop down."

The use of the term "malaise" by the media further cemented the speech's controversial legacy, effectively turning it into a political liability.

Political Ramifications and the Rise of Reagan

Carter's candid acknowledgment of national weaknesses contrasted sharply with Ronald Reagan's optimistic and confident demeanor. Reagan capitalized on this dichotomy, presenting himself as a leader who exuded unwavering confidence without delving into introspection.

Kevin Matson [20:57]: "Reagan represents the make believe idea that there really is no energy crisis."

This stark difference in leadership styles contributed to Carter's downfall in the 1980 election, as voters gravitated towards Reagan's reassuring optimism over Carter's somber realism.

Legacy and Relevance Today

Kevin Matson reflects on the enduring relevance of Carter's "crisis of confidence" speech, drawing parallels to contemporary political and social challenges. He highlights a yearning among the public for leaders who are honest, forthcoming, and capable of uniting the nation through shared sacrifice.

Kevin Matson [24:17]: "There are people who are yearning for getting around all the polarization, confronting problems seriously, and finding some sense of unity in a process of self sacrifice."

Despite the passage of nearly five decades, the core message of Carter's speech—addressing systemic issues through collective effort—resonates in today's polarized climate, suggesting that the struggle for confidence and unity remains an ongoing challenge.

Conclusion

The episode concludes by affirming the profound impact of Carter's speech on both his political trajectory and the broader American psyche. Kevin Matson emphasizes Carter's dedication to public service post-presidency, underscoring his belief in the power of individual and collective action to effect meaningful change.

Kevin Matson [22:52]: "His life after losing was full of public service... improving his society other than Jimmy Carter."

This historical examination not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history but also invites listeners to reflect on the enduring quest for national confidence and solidarity.

Notable Quotes

• Sean Ramis [00:00]: "Most people refer to it as the Malaise speech, even though he never says the word well."
• Kevin Matson [00:34]: "Capitalism, consumerism and the want of things was creating an unsustainable world..."
• Historian [00:43]: "It is a crisis that strikes at the very heart and soul and spirit of our national world."
• Kevin Matson [04:14]: "It's July 15, 1979. The thing that Carter just stated is pointing to something that's really disturbing to a lot of Americans..."
• Historian [07:33]: "This is not a message of happiness or reassurance, but it is the truth, and it is a war."
• Kevin Matson [16:25]: "The speech boosts Carter's polling by about 10%. People react favorably and say, yeah, I'm ready to do this."
• Kevin Matson [20:57]: "Reagan represents the make believe idea that there really is no energy crisis."
• Kevin Matson [24:17]: "There are people who are yearning for getting around all the polarization, confronting problems seriously..."
• Kevin Matson [22:52]: "His life after losing was full of public service... improving his society other than Jimmy Carter."

Final Thoughts

When Carter Called Out America offers a nuanced exploration of a defining moment in presidential history. By revisiting Carter's earnest plea for a more conscientious and unified America, the episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of leadership, public trust, and the enduring struggle to balance individualism with collective responsibility.

Episode Credits:

• Edited by: Matthew Collette and Miranda Kennedy
• Produced by: Gillian Weinberger
• Mixed by: Paul Robert Mounsey and Rob Byers
• Fact-Checked by: Serena Solon and Laura Bullard

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