The Dan Bongino Show: Episode 2375 – Bitter CNN Goes After Me

Release Date: November 21, 2024

In Episode 2375 of The Dan Bongino Show, host Dan Bongino delves into his contentious relationship with mainstream media, particularly focusing on CNN's recent critique of his "Cutesy Time is Over" theory. The episode is a robust exploration of Bongino's perspectives on media bias, identity politics, COVID-19's political impact, and the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during this episode.

1. CNN's Critique of "Cutesy Time is Over"

Timestamp: [00:03] – [04:23]

Dan Bongino opens the show by addressing a technical glitch and swiftly transitions to the central issue: CNN's portrayal of his "Cutesy Time is Over" theory. He expresses surprise and skepticism about CNN's interest in his theory, highlighting that it signifies the mainstream acceptance of his narrative.

• Notable Quote:

  "Cutesy time is over. We led the way and a lot of people are recognizing that." – Dan Bongino [04:23]

Bongino emphasizes his fair game status, asserting that as a media personality, any coverage is part of the territory he navigates without personal resentment towards the critics.

2. "Cutesy Time is Over" Theory Explained

Timestamp: [04:23] – [15:28]

Bongino elaborates on his "Cutesy Time is Over" theory, positioning it as a pivotal shift away from conciliatory politics towards a more assertive MAGA agenda. He criticizes both liberal and establishment Republican rhetoric, advocating for policies that reinforce a permanent (or semi-permanent) Republican majority.

• Key Points:

  • Rejection of Establishment Rhetoric: Bongino argues that both liberal and certain Republican factions have failed to address core American issues, necessitating a decisive political realignment.
  • Identity Politics Critique: He vehemently opposes identity politics, labeling it as divisive and detrimental to national cohesion.

• Notable Quote:

  "But identity politics is such a winner for you guys on the left. I want to fund a pack." – Dan Bongino [15:28]

Bongino also touches upon the role of conservative media and his strategic alliances within the MAGA movement, asserting the growing influence and effectiveness of grassroots conservative activism.

3. The Schism Within the Democratic Party

Timestamp: [15:28] – [36:23]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing internal divisions within the Democratic Party. Bongino highlights incidents involving Democratic figures like Jasmine Crockett and criticizes their adherence to identity politics and election denialism.

• Key Highlights:

  • Jasmine Crockett's Actions: Bongino scrutinizes Crockett's stance on ballot counting and accuses her of attempting to undermine electoral integrity.
  • Leadership Commentary: He praises Republican figures like Scott Pressler for their role in solidifying Republican influence in traditionally Democratic regions like Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

• Notable Quote:

  "The schism on the left is real. You are the news now. This was a clear cut segment ever where they could have righted a wrong and they didn't." – Dan Bongino [32:47]

This segment underscores Bongino's belief that the Democratic Party's internal conflicts and focus on divisive issues are weakening their political standing, thereby favoring a MAGA resurgence.

4. COVID-19's Political Impact

Timestamp: [36:23] – [44:13]

Bongino delves into the ramifications of COVID-19 policies on American politics, framing the pandemic response as both a political tyranny and a catalyst for the freedom and liberty movement.

• Key Points:

  • COVID Tyranny: He labels the pandemic response as the most egregious political overreach in decades, criticizing mask mandates and vaccine rollouts as violations of personal freedoms.
  • Political Realignment: Bongino posits that the COVID-19 policies alienated a significant portion of the electorate, driving them towards the MAGA movement.

• Notable Quote:

  "The COVID tyranny... turned more normies over to the MAGA movement than anything else." – Dan Bongino [44:13]

Bongino attributes the shift in public sentiment and political loyalty to the government's handling of the pandemic, suggesting that this has irreparably damaged trust in mainstream institutions and science.

5. The Rise of New Media and Decline of Mainstream Media

Timestamp: [44:13] – [56:08]

Transitioning to media dynamics, Bongino discusses the ascendancy of new media platforms over traditional outlets like MSNBC and Morning Joe.

• Key Points:

  • Media Consumption Trends: Citing Pew Research Center data, he notes that a growing number of Americans, especially younger demographics, are turning to influencers and social media for news.
  • Mainstream Media's Decline: Bongino criticizes traditional media for losing credibility, with only 31% of its audience trusting their reporting.
  • Empowerment through New Media: He champions platforms like Rumble, emphasizing their role in disrupting established media narratives and empowering conservative voices.

• Notable Quote:

  "Only one in five adults regularly get their news from influencers. On social media, the number is even higher among younger Americans." – Dan Bongino [56:08]

Bongino celebrates the loyalty of his audience and underscores the importance of leveraging new media to sustain and grow the conservative movement, contrasting it with the perceived stagnation of traditional media channels.

6. Conclusion and Forward Look

In wrapping up the episode, Bongino reinforces his optimism about the future trajectory of the MAGA movement. He highlights ongoing political shifts, praises emerging conservative leaders, and reiterates the importance of continued resistance against liberal policies.

• Key Takeaways:

  • MAGA Realignment: Bongino cites factors such as population shifts from liberal to conservative states and declining mainstream media influence as indicators of a sustained MAGA realignment.
  • Call to Action: He urges listeners to stay informed, support conservative initiatives, and leverage new media platforms to amplify their voices.

• Notable Quote:

  "The trend lines for us are all positive. You did this. You chose your source of media as all of those outlets. The math matters." – Dan Bongino

Bongino concludes with a reaffirmation of the show's mission to inform and mobilize the conservative base, expressing gratitude for the audience's support and loyalty.

Final Thoughts

Episode 2375 of The Dan Bongino Show offers a fervent critique of mainstream media and progressive politics, framing them as obstacles to American prosperity and unity. Through incisive commentary and strategic analysis, Bongino advocates for a robust MAGA strategy aimed at reversing current political trends. The episode serves as both a rallying cry for conservatives and a detailed exposition of the perceived failings of the Democratic Party and traditional media outlets.