BREAKING: Kamala Picks WALZ For VP

Added: Aug 7, 2024

The Significance of Passing Over Josh Shapiro

Shapiro spends considerable time analyzing why Harris did not choose Josh Shapiro as her running mate, despite him being a popular governor of the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania. He asserts that the main reason is because Shapiro is Jewish, and the Democratic party's progressive base has become increasingly anti-Semitic and anti-Israel. Shapiro cites comments from several Democratic politicians expressing dismay that Shapiro was being held to a different standard due to his religion. He argues this reveals the mask has slipped on the Democrats' claims of moderation and inclusivity.

Tim Walz's Background and Record

The host then delves into Tim Walz's background and record as governor of Minnesota. He describes Walz as essentially "Bernie Sanders with a Fargo accent" - a radical leftist who has implemented numerous progressive policies in Minnesota. These include establishing a carbon-free electrical grid goal, passing paid family leave, transgender rights protections, and marijuana legalization. Shapiro also criticizes Walz's handling of the 2020 riots in Minneapolis following George Floyd's death, accusing him of allowing rioters to burn down the city. He argues that by choosing such a radical running mate, Harris has undermined her attempts to portray herself as a moderate.

Economic Turmoil and Market Downturn

Shapiro transitions to discussing the major stock market downturn that occurred the day before, with the Dow dropping over 1,000 points. He links this to fears of a coming recession and the unwinding of speculative investments, particularly in AI and tech stocks. The host argues that the Biden-Harris administration owns this economic turmoil, and that Harris will now be held responsible for the state of the economy as the de facto Democratic nominee. He plays clips of Harris previously celebrating "Bidenomics" and argues this will come back to haunt her campaign.

Foreign Policy Challenges and Middle East Tensions

The podcast then covers the growing tensions in the Middle East, with Iran threatening retaliation against Israel and attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq. Shapiro criticizes the Biden administration's handling of foreign policy, accusing them of weakness and coddling Iran while distancing from allies like Israel and Saudi Arabia. He argues that Harris, as part of the administration, shares responsibility for this dangerous situation. The host plays a clip of Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling for "all parties" to de-escalate, which Shapiro mocks as useless equivocation.

Media Coverage and Campaign Strategy

Throughout the episode, Shapiro repeatedly criticizes the media for failing to ask Harris tough questions since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee. He notes it has been 17 days without Harris facing any serious press scrutiny. The host argues that the Trump campaign must seize this opportunity to define Harris and Walz as radical leftists before the media can craft a more moderate image. He advises the Republicans to focus laser-like on portraying this as the most extreme Democratic ticket in history, rather than getting bogged down in other issues.

Analysis of Current Polling and Electoral Map

Shapiro examines recent polling that shows Harris with a very slim lead over Trump nationally. He expresses optimism that Harris has not opened up a larger lead despite weeks of positive media coverage and no tough questions. The host analyzes the electoral map, noting that Pennsylvania remains crucial and that Harris passing over Josh Shapiro may hurt her chances there. He also discusses the Democrats' "blue wall" strategy and questions whether Walz will actually help in Midwestern swing states.

Interview with Michael Knowles

In the latter portion of the episode, Shapiro interviews fellow conservative commentator Michael Knowles to get his reaction to the Walz pick. Knowles agrees it was a major unforced error by Harris that reveals her true radical nature. They discuss why Harris may have made this choice, speculating it was to appease the progressive base and avoid protests at the Democratic convention. Knowles also notes it shows Harris' political incompetence, reminding listeners of her failed 2020 primary campaign. Both hosts express optimism that this pick opens up lines of attack for Republicans.

Reasons Behind Rejecting Other Potential Picks

Shapiro and Knowles discuss why Harris may have passed over other potential running mates like Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona. They cite rumors of potential scandals with Kelly, as well as Harris' weak polling in Arizona making it less strategic. The hosts argue Harris is still focused on shoring up the Midwest rather than expanding into Sun Belt states. They see the Walz pick as an attempt at Midwestern appeal, but one that ultimately fails by embracing radicalism over moderation.

Implications for the Campaign Going Forward

In concluding the episode, Shapiro reiterates his view that this vice presidential pick reveals Harris' true radical nature and political incompetence. He argues it shows she will run a base turnout strategy rather than trying to appeal to moderates and swing voters. The host expresses optimism that this opens up clear lines of attack for Republicans if they stay disciplined in their messaging. He advises the Trump campaign to relentlessly portray Harris-Walz as the most extreme ticket in history and tie them to economic troubles and foreign policy failures.

Final Thoughts

Shapiro ends by emphasizing the high stakes of the election, with major economic and foreign policy challenges looming. He argues Harris has shown her cards as a radical leftist with this pick, and that Republicans must seize the opportunity to define her before the media can craft a more moderate image. The host expresses cautious optimism about GOP chances but warns they must run a disciplined campaign focused solely on Harris and Walz rather than getting distracted by other issues. Overall, Shapiro views the Walz pick as a major misstep that reveals Harris' true nature and gives Republicans a clear opening for the general election campaign.