Added: Oct 16, 2024

In this podcast episode, Ben Shapiro delves into the current state of Kamala Harris's campaign, highlighting her struggles and the implications of recent polling data. The discussion begins with an analysis of Harris's position in the race against Donald Trump, particularly in swing states where she appears to be trailing. Shapiro cites a Harvard Harris poll indicating that Trump holds a slight lead over Harris, with significant challenges for her campaign, especially among male voters and specific demographic groups.

Polling Insights and Voter Demographics

Shapiro emphasizes the importance of voter demographics, noting that Harris's support among black voters and men is particularly weak. He points out that while she has a slight lead among likely voters, this advantage diminishes among registered voters. The podcast discusses how independents and male voters are leaning towards Trump, with Harris struggling to connect with these groups. Shapiro argues that Harris's campaign lacks appeal, particularly among traditional male voters who are put off by what he describes as an "anti-male tenor" in her messaging.

Desperation Moves and Media Engagement

As the conversation progresses, Shapiro discusses Harris's recent attempts to engage with more critical media outlets, including an upcoming interview with Brett Baier on Fox News. He suggests that this move is a sign of desperation, as Harris has primarily limited her interviews to friendly platforms like CNN and CBS. He expresses skepticism about her ability to handle tough questions, predicting that if the interview goes poorly, it could severely damage her campaign.

The podcast also touches on Harris's efforts to appeal to men, which Shapiro argues are misguided. He critiques a new ad campaign aimed at changing perceptions of masculinity, suggesting that it fails to resonate with the target audience. He believes that the ad's message, which seems to scold traditional masculinity, is unlikely to win over male voters.

Plagiarism Allegations

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to discussing allegations of plagiarism against Kamala Harris. Shapiro references an investigation by Chris Rufo, which claims that Harris plagiarized multiple sections of her book "Smart on Crime." He highlights the severity of these allegations, comparing them to past instances of plagiarism that have derailed political careers. He argues that this revelation underscores Harris's lack of substance and originality, portraying her as an "empty vessel" without genuine ideas or policies.

The discussion of plagiarism leads to a broader critique of Harris's character and qualifications. Shapiro asserts that her history of borrowing ideas without proper attribution reflects a deeper issue of authenticity in her political persona. He contrasts her with other political figures, suggesting that Harris's inability to present original thoughts or policies makes her a weak candidate.

Campaign Strategies and Future Prospects

Shapiro continues to analyze Harris's campaign strategies, noting her attempts to shore up support among black men through policy proposals that include forgivable loans and mentorship programs. He critiques these efforts as potentially illegal and ineffective, arguing that they reflect a desperate attempt to buy support rather than earn it through genuine engagement.

The podcast also touches on the broader implications of Harris's campaign for the Democratic Party. Shapiro suggests that the party's reliance on identity politics and its failure to connect with key demographic groups, such as black men, could have significant consequences in the upcoming election. He points out that the Democratic Party has historically taken these voters for granted, and Harris's struggles may signal a larger issue within the party.

International Context and Domestic Policy

As the conversation shifts to international affairs, Shapiro discusses the potential geopolitical ramifications of a Harris presidency. He raises concerns about how adversaries like China and Iran might exploit a perceived weakness in U.S. leadership during the election period. He warns that these nations may take aggressive actions, such as military maneuvers around Taiwan or nuclear advancements in Iran, while the U.S. is preoccupied with its domestic political landscape.

The podcast concludes with a reflection on the current state of the Biden administration's foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and Iran. Shapiro criticizes the administration's approach to Israel, suggesting that it undermines the country's security and emboldens its adversaries. He argues that the Biden administration's attempts to restrain Israel's military actions could lead to increased instability in the region.

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