Podcast Summary
Recap of Idaho murders investigation, holiday story, and 2024 news preview with Ben Shapiro: The Megyn Kelly Show returned from break with a recap of the Idaho quadruple murders investigation, a heartwarming holiday story, a preview of major news events in 2024, and a light-hearted anecdote about their dog.
The Megyn Kelly Show returned after the holiday break with a recap of their investigation into the Idaho quadruple murders, a heartfelt story about a Christmas with family and pets, and a preview of the significant news events expected in 2024, including the Iowa caucuses, New Hampshire primary, potential debates, and the US Supreme Court's role in the 2024 presidential campaign regarding Trump's eligibility to be on the ballot. A humorous anecdote about their dog Strudwick consuming an excessive amount of dog treats almost causing a health emergency also added to the light-hearted start of the show. Ben Shapiro, editor emeritus at The Daily Wire and host of The Ben Shapiro Show, joined Megyn Kelly to discuss these topics in depth.
Border crisis reaches unprecedented levels under Biden: Over 300,000 immigrant encounters in Dec 2021, triple the number in 2019, causing concern among Democrats and Hispanic voters, leading to calls for action and a shift in voter support
The border crisis under President Biden has reached unprecedented levels, with over 300,000 immigrant encounters in December 2021 alone. This is more than triple the number during the same month in 2019 under President Trump. The situation has become so dire that even Democratic mayors in blue cities are now feeling the impact, leading to growing calls for action to secure the border. Hispanic voters, a key Democratic demographic, have also turned against Biden on this issue, with a recent poll showing a 15-point swing in favor of Trump. These numbers suggest that many voters who once supported Biden have left his camp on this issue. The border crisis is not only a humanitarian concern but also a political one for the Biden administration.
Border crisis impacting Biden's approval rating: Biden's handling of the border crisis could impact the 2024 election, as his approval rating drops among Hispanics and the American people want a secure border
The border crisis is a significant issue for President Biden, and his handling of it could greatly impact the 2024 election. Biden currently has an advantage among voters, but his approval rating drops significantly among Hispanics due to the border situation. Trump, who has consistently made the border a key issue, could use this to his advantage in future elections if Biden fails to address the crisis. The number of illegal immigrants entering the country has increased dramatically, and many are coming from regions outside of the traditional "northern triangle." Biden's unwillingness or inability to secure the border is holding up important aid packages, and his refusal to do so is perplexing to many. The American people are not in favor of an open border, and this is a weak point for Biden in the polling data. There are various reasons why some in the Democratic party may support an open border, but these views are not representative of the American people as a whole.
Politics and Public Expectations: Misalignment and Complexity: Political decisions may not align with public expectations or logic, as shown by the current presidency's extreme left-wing policies and the divisive issue of gender-affirming care for minors, where inconsistencies among governors and potential conflicts of interest exist.
Political decisions and actions may not always align with public expectations or make logical sense. The current presidency serves as an example, with the president implementing extreme left-wing policies despite previously rejecting them. Another topic discussed was the controversial issue of gender-affirming care for minors. While some states have approved it, others have banned it. The inconsistency among governors, even in red states, highlights the complexity and divisiveness of this issue. A surprising development was Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's refusal to ban gender-affirming care, despite receiving significant donations from hospitals that perform these procedures. This raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the prioritization of political support over the well-being of minors. Overall, the discussion underscores the need for clear, thoughtful decision-making in politics and the importance of considering the long-term implications of policies and actions.
Debate over preferred pronouns and gender identity: The debate over preferred pronouns and gender identity raises questions about balancing respect for individual identities and objective reality, with some arguing it's essential to respect identities while others maintain importance of truth.
The ongoing debate surrounding gender identity and the use of preferred pronouns has become a contentious issue, with some arguing that it's an imposition on others to be compelled to use certain terms. The discussion highlighted an incident where a Delta Airlines employee was accused of misgendering a passenger, leading to a heated exchange. Critics argue that this push for the use of preferred pronouns is part of a larger societal shift towards prioritizing feelings over objective reality, leading to accusations of erasure when one's preferred identity is not recognized. The debate also raises questions about the limits of tolerance and acceptance, with some arguing that it's essential to respect individual identities while others maintain that it's important not to compromise objective truth. Ultimately, the issue underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and understanding to find a balance between respecting individual identities and upholding objective reality.
Belief in reparations as a solution to societal issues without addressing root causes is misguided: The belief in reparations as a solution to societal issues, such as crime or poverty, without addressing the root causes is a dangerous and misguided approach. Focusing on merit and accountability, rather than quotas and DEI structures, is essential for genuine progress.
The belief in providing reparations as a solution to societal issues, such as crime or poverty, without addressing the root causes, is a dangerous and misguided approach. This was discussed in relation to Chicago's new mayor, Brandon Johnson, who proposes reparations as a means to lower the city's crime rate. However, there is no evidence to support this connection. Instead, decisions and actions individuals take in their lives significantly impact their likelihood of escaping poverty. The welfare system, which aims to alleviate the consequences of poor decisions, does not change the underlying decision-making structure. This concept was criticized for reducing people to the color of their skin and promoting a corrupt thought process present in many major institutions, including academia. The example of Claudine Gay, who was caught in a plagiarism scandal but remains in her position as Harvard's president, illustrates this issue. The focus on diversity quotas and DEI structures in institutions, rather than merit and accountability, has led to a destruction of higher education.
Harvard's inconsistent application of academic standards in DEI cases: Harvard's DEI initiatives have led to inconsistent application of academic standards, favoritism, and hypocrisy, damaging the university's reputation and potentially undermining the achievements of black students.
The current state of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in universities, using Harvard as an example, has led to a culture where individuals are given immunity based on their race and political beliefs, disregarding academic and ethical standards. This was highlighted in the case of Claudine Gay, the president of MIT, who has faced allegations of plagiarism and was appointed despite having fewer scholarly accomplishments compared to her predecessors. The inconsistent application of academic standards, as seen in the treatment of scholars like Larry Summers, Roland Fryer, and a dean who represented Harvey Weinstein, raises concerns about favoritism and hypocrisy within these institutions. The situation at Harvard is damaging the reputation of the university and potentially undermining the achievements of black students. The immunity that comes with being a left-wing Harvard black woman seems to be unbreakable, leading to a lack of accountability for those in positions of power. The inconsistencies in the application of academic standards and the politicization of university life are significant issues that need to be addressed.
Divide Among Conservative Right on Foreign Policy and Domestic Issues: Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro represent opposing views within the conservative right on foreign policy and domestic issues, leading to heated exchanges. The current situation is more pronounced due to Trump's inconsistent ideology, but both share a love for America.
There is a significant divide within the conservative right, with figures like Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro holding opposing views on foreign policy and the importance of addressing domestic issues. The disagreements have led to heated exchanges, with Tucker accusing Ben of not caring about the country, a claim Ben denies. Ben, who has family in the US for over a century and is not a neocon, sees this as a fractured right with no clear ideological leader. While there have always been disagreements within conservative circles, the current situation is more pronounced due to Donald Trump's lack of a consistent ideology. Despite the disagreements, both Tucker and Ben share a love for America.
Impact of Foreign Policy on Americans and Domestic Politics: A hawkish realist emphasizes the importance of US involvement in global conflicts, while expressing concern about domestic polarization and potential post-election unrest.
Foreign policy and events happening far away can significantly impact American citizens. The speaker, who identifies as a hawkish realist, believes the United States should not isolate itself from global conflicts, especially those that threaten freedom of the seas and global trade. Regarding domestic politics, the speaker expresses concern about the ongoing attempts to delegitimize the Supreme Court and the potential for widespread unrest following the 2024 election. The polarization in society and the erosion of intermediate institutions make it difficult to bridge gaps and create a united front, potentially leading to a dangerous and divisive post-election environment.
US Supreme Court unlikely to rule for Trump impeachment, Trump remains GOP frontrunner: Despite DeSantis gaining ground, Trump's base support and potential consolidation of votes make him a strong contender to win the GOP nomination, while the Supreme Court's decision not to rule for Trump's impeachment leaves him free to campaign.
The US Supreme Court is unlikely to rule in favor of impeaching former President Trump based on the 14th Amendment, and Trump remains the dominant figure in the GOP primary race. Despite DeSantis gaining ground on Haley, Trump's popularity among the Republican base is strong, and a potential DeSantis dropout could lead to a significant boost for Trump. Additionally, Haley's support from establishment Republicans may split the anti-Trump vote, making it difficult for her to gain ground. The primary process could potentially extend beyond South Carolina if DeSantis manages an upset win in Iowa, but Trump's base support and potential consolidation of votes make him a strong contender to win the nomination.
Chris Christie's Unnecessary Bid for Relevance in Republican Primary: Christie's criticism of Nikki Haley and alleged political interference in Hunter Biden's case could overshadow Joe Biden's reelection campaign, despite his own weak chances in the primary.
Chris Christie's involvement in the Republican primary race is seen as unnecessary and potentially self-destructive, given his past actions in politics. Christy's criticism of Nikki Haley, including her past praise of Donald Trump, is viewed as a desperate attempt to regain relevance and reputation, despite having no real chance in the race. The whistleblowers' allegations of political interference in the Hunter Biden tax case are a significant concern, as they claim that a sweetheart plea deal was attempted for the first son, which would have given him immunity on all but minor charges. These whistleblowers have faced repeated smear campaigns, but their claims have proven to be accurate, as evidenced by Hunter Biden's subsequent indictment. The ongoing legal troubles surrounding Hunter Biden threaten to overshadow his father's reelection campaign, making January a critical month for politics and the law.
IRS Whistleblowers Feel Vindicated by Hunter Biden's Tax Evasion Indictment: IRS whistleblowers believe Hunter Biden received preferential treatment in tax evasion case, calling for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the Delaware US Attorney's Office.
The IRS whistleblowers, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, feel vindicated by the recent felony indictment against Hunter Biden for tax evasion, as they believe the equal treatment of taxpayers was not being upheld in his case. They have emphasized that if a regular citizen had committed similar tax offenses, they would have been prosecuted. The indictment includes charges of tax evasion and filing false returns, contradicting Biden's team's claims that this was a civil issue and no taxes were owed. The whistleblowers argue that these charges would not have been brought against an average citizen, and they call for a thorough investigation into the conduct of David Weiss and his team at the Delaware US Attorney's Office.
US Attorney for Delaware denied authority to prosecute in California and Washington D.C.: The US Attorney for Delaware, David Weiss, misrepresented his lack of authority to bring charges in California and Washington D.C. during an investigation into Hunter Biden's alleged financial misconduct, contradicting statements made by then-Attorney General Merrick Garland.
During an investigation into alleged financial misconduct by Hunter Biden, David Weiss, the US Attorney for Delaware, claimed he didn't have the authority to bring charges in California and Washington D.C., despite having investigated crimes committed in those jurisdictions. Gary, a key figure in the investigation, documented this admission in his notes. However, Merrick Garland, the Attorney General at the time, publicly denied Gary's claims, stating that Weiss had full authority to prosecute anywhere. Later, under oath during congressional testimony, Weiss admitted that he had indeed requested but been denied special permission to bring charges in California and Washington D.C. This revelation confirmed that Garland's earlier denials were not truthful.
FBI met with Merrick Garland over Hunter Biden case, but contradictory statements and delays raised concerns: Merrick Garland's contradictory statements and delays in handling Hunter Biden's case, despite evidence of potential federal crimes, raised concerns of political influence and negatively impacted the DOJ's reputation
The October 2020 meeting between the FBI and Merrick Garland regarding potential charges against Hunter Biden was significant because Garland's statements under oath contradicted other officials' confirmations that DOJ tax division approval was required before charges could be filed. Additionally, Garland's attempts to charge the case in DC and later in California were met with resistance, and he only requested special charging authority once Biden's appointee took office. The delay in bringing the case to California despite the lack of change in facts or laws raises concerns of political influence. If charges had been brought against Hunter Biden in 2014 and 2015, an investigation into potential federal crimes could have been pursued in court, but the statute of limitations expired. The inconsistencies and delays in handling the case have negatively impacted the DOJ's reputation.
IRS Agents' Findings on Hunter Biden's Business Dealings Dismissed by Biden Supporters: Despite extensive evidence, IRS agents' findings on Hunter Biden's business dealings during 2014-2015 were dismissed and ignored by Democrats and Biden supporters, leading to their removal from the case and replacement with a special counsel.
The Biden administration and their allies have avoided bringing charges related to Hunter Biden's business dealings during the years 2014 and 2015, which could have been controversial and raised investigative paths. Two IRS agents, Joseph Ziegler and Gary Shablik, testified about their findings during these years, but were met with criticism and dismissal from Democrats and Biden supporters. Dan Goldman, a chief Biden cheerleader, implied that the agents were confused and incompetent, despite their extensive evidence and whistleblower claims. The agents were eventually removed from the case and replaced with a special counsel, David Weiss, who ultimately brought charges based on earlier, unexpired conduct. The agents' reputations have been tarnished, and it may be difficult for them to regain normalcy. They have provided extensive evidence and testimony, and it is important for the public to read through these documents to understand the full context of the situation.
Investigation into Hunter Biden's business dealings raises concerns of influence-peddling and enrichment within the Biden family: Despite political interference, evidence suggests a link between Joe Biden and Hunter's business dealings involving millions of dollars, foreign business leaders, and apparent attempts to hide involvement.
The investigation into Hunter Biden's business dealings raised serious concerns about potential influence-peddling and enrichment within the Biden family. Key moments included emails discussing deals worth millions of dollars, meetings with foreign business leaders, and apparent attempts to hide the involvement of Joe Biden. However, the investigation was hampered by political interference, with evidence related to Joe Biden being off-limits and leads not being followed. Despite this, there is evidence suggesting a link between Joe Biden and these business dealings, including the involvement of CEFC and James Biden in financial transactions. Ultimately, the lack of transparency and accountability in these matters highlights the need for further investigation and reform to prevent such situations from occurring in the future.
DOJ faces allegations of obstructing Hunter Biden investigations: The Biden DOJ is under scrutiny for obstructing investigations into Hunter Biden's business dealings, with witnesses reportedly obstructed and limited access to documents, hindering progress.
The Department of Justice under the Biden administration is facing allegations of obstructing investigations related to Hunter Biden's business dealings. The timing of a $3,000,000 payment from CEFC to Hunter Biden post-Joe Biden's tenure as Vice President raises questions, and witnesses have reportedly been obstructed in their testimony. For instance, Leslie Wolf, a deputy of the prosecutor David Weiss, reportedly refused to answer questions about the case during her testimony to the House investigators. The lack of access to witnesses and documents, as well as the narrow line of questioning allowed in public settings, hampers the investigation's progress. The hope is that Congress will push for depositions behind closed doors to allow both sides ample time to ask questions and uncover the truth, restoring faith in the Department of Justice.
FBI Witness Intimidation and Harvard President Resignation: FBI witness intimidation halts investigation progress, Harvard President resigns over plagiarism allegations, Hunter Biden refuses to testify and sues IRS, calls for transparency, accountability, and fixing issues in both IRS investigation and Harvard University.
The FBI witness in the IRS investigation is unable to answer more questions due to intimidation or restrictions, leading to frustration and a call for a special counsel to investigate US Attorney David Weiss. The discussion also touched on the Harvard President, Claudine Gay, who resigned amidst allegations of plagiarism and insensitivity towards hate speech. Another point raised was the refusal of Hunter Biden to testify in a closed-door session and his subsequent filing of a lawsuit against the IRS. The overall sentiment expressed was a need for transparency, accountability, and a focus on fixing issues in both the IRS investigation and Harvard University.
IRS Dispute Over Biden Tax Info: Confidential Information Allegedly Leaked: An ongoing legal dispute between a taxpayer and the IRS involves claims that confidential taxpayer information related to President Biden was intentionally leaked, leading to a civil lawsuit. The debate goes beyond just Biden's case and raises concerns about DOJ equity and high-ranking officials' involvement.
There is an ongoing legal dispute between a taxpayer and the IRS regarding the alleged disclosure of confidential taxpayer information related to President Joe Biden. The taxpayer, represented by Gary O'Connor and Chuck Grassley's office, claims that IRS employees and others intentionally and repeatedly disseminated Biden's protected tax return information, leading to a civil lawsuit. Biden's team denies any wrongdoing and maintains that they did not discuss his son's overseas business dealings. The narrative surrounding Biden's involvement in his son's business dealings has evolved over time, with new evidence and witness testimony coming to light. The court will ultimately decide whether the IRS followed the law in disclosing the information. The debate goes beyond just Hunter Biden's case and raises concerns about Department of Justice equity and the involvement of high-ranking officials.
Biden family financial dealings and potential tax evasion: Failure to thoroughly investigate Biden family's business transactions involving potential tax evasion could result in an incomplete investigation, raising questions about their dealings
Hunter Biden's financial dealings with various entities, including Burisma and CEFC, were often labeled as loans to avoid taxation. However, if someone is holding equity for another person, that is a taxable event for both parties. The failure to fully investigate these transactions could result in an incomplete and thorough investigation. Evidence suggests that Hunter Biden received money from James Biden, which was also claimed to be a loan. It's important to note that these transactions are significant because they involve potential tax evasion and raise questions about the Biden family's business dealings. The discussion also highlighted the importance of following investigative routes to uncover the truth and ensure transparency. The guests on the show commended the efforts of the investigative team for their dedication to uncovering the facts.
