In this podcast episode, Ben Shapiro delves into a series of significant events, including a tragic midair collision involving an American Airlines passenger jet and a military helicopter, as well as the controversial nomination hearing of Robert F. Kennedy Junior for Secretary of Health and Human Services. The episode also touches on President Trump's executive actions, immigration policies, and the ongoing political landscape.

Tragic Midair Collision

The podcast opens with a shocking report about an American Airlines passenger jet that crashed into a military helicopter while attempting to land at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of all 64 people on board, including members of the U.S. figure skating community, has raised serious concerns about air traffic safety in one of the most heavily monitored airspaces in the country. Shapiro emphasizes the rarity of such accidents in the U.S., which boasts one of the safest aviation systems globally. He expresses condolences for the victims' families and anticipates that this tragedy will prompt significant changes in how air traffic is managed around sensitive areas like Reagan National.

RFK Jr.'s Nomination Hearing

The discussion then shifts to RFK Junior's nomination hearing, where he faced scrutiny from both Democrats and Republicans. Shapiro notes that RFK Junior has become a controversial figure due to his past positions on vaccines and abortion. During the hearing, he attempted to clarify his stance, asserting that he does not intend to ban foods or impose strict regulations on Americans' dietary choices. Instead, he advocates for "radical transparency" in health policies, promising to provide Congress with immediate access to information.

RFK Junior also addressed his previous comments on vaccines, stating that he supports vaccines like the measles and polio vaccines while acknowledging that all vaccines have potential side effects. He further distanced himself from his past pro-choice stance, aligning himself with President Trump's pro-life policies. Shapiro highlights the absurdity of some Democratic attacks on RFK Junior, particularly a moment when Senator Bernie Sanders fixated on a baby onesie that read "unvaxxed, unafraid." This exchange, which Shapiro describes as comical, underscores the Democrats' struggle to effectively challenge RFK Junior in the hearing.

Political Landscape and Democratic Responses

Shapiro critiques the Democratic Party's current state, suggesting that their fixation on RFK Junior reflects a broader failure to connect with mainstream voters. He points out that many Democrats who once supported RFK Junior have turned against him due to partisan politics. The podcast also touches on the Democrats' reliance on extreme figures like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, which Shapiro argues has alienated traditional voters.

In contrast, he praises RFK Junior's ability to articulate his views and navigate the contentious political landscape. Shapiro believes that RFK Junior's commitment to transparency and accountability could resonate with voters who are tired of the status quo.

President Trump's Executive Actions

The podcast transitions to President Trump's recent executive actions, which aim to reshape various policies, including immigration and education. Shapiro discusses Trump's signing of the Lakan Riley Act, designed to crack down on criminal illegal immigration. This act allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for harm caused by illegal immigrants and mandates the detention of illegal immigrants involved in crimes.

Trump's administration is also reportedly planning to use Guantanamo Bay as a facility for detaining the worst criminal illegal immigrants, a move that Shapiro believes will be popular among Americans concerned about crime and safety. He emphasizes that Trump's approach to immigration is markedly different from previous administrations, focusing on mass deportations and strict enforcement of immigration laws.

In addition to immigration, Shapiro highlights Trump's executive order aimed at ending racial indoctrination in K-12 education. This order seeks to eliminate policies that promote divisive ideologies and protect parental rights in education. Shapiro argues that this move aligns with the desires of many parents who want their children to receive a balanced education free from political agendas.

The Role of the EPA and Federal Spending

The podcast also features a discussion about the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its new administrator, Lee Zeldin. Shapiro notes that Zeldin's priorities include protecting human health and the environment while ensuring that economic concerns are addressed. He emphasizes the need for common-sense solutions that do not hinder American jobs or economic growth.

Zeldin's commitment to transparency and accountability within the EPA is highlighted, as he aims to prevent wasteful spending and ensure that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. Shapiro expresses optimism about Zeldin's approach, suggesting that it could lead to a more efficient and responsible EPA.

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