Added: Aug 27, 2024

In this podcast episode, Ben SHapiro delves into the current state of the 2024 election, highlighting the close race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Recent polling indicates that Harris has gained a slight lead, but the race remains extremely tight, particularly in key battleground states like Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, North Carolina, and Georgia. Shapiro emphasizes that for Trump to reclaim the presidency, he must secure North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and one of either Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, or Michigan.

Kamala Harris's Campaign Strategy

The discussion shifts to Kamala Harris's campaign strategy, which has been characterized by a notable absence of direct engagement with the media. Shapiro points out that Harris has gone 37 days without answering serious questions about her record as Vice President or her plans moving forward. This lack of transparency is seen as a deliberate tactic to avoid scrutiny, allowing her to present herself as a fresh face while distancing herself from the Biden administration's policies. Shapiro criticizes this approach, arguing that it undermines the democratic process by preventing voters from understanding her positions.

Harris Gains Major Financial Support

Shapiro also highlights the significant financial backing Harris has received, raising $540 million in just four weeks. This influx of cash is attributed to major donors who had previously withheld support for Biden, indicating a strategic pivot within the Democratic Party to rally behind Harris. Shapiro argues that this is a classic example of the Democratic machine at work, prioritizing party unity and electoral success over genuine policy discussions.

The Role of the Media

The podcast further explores the media's complicity in Harris's campaign strategy. Shapiro notes that the media has largely refrained from challenging her on her past positions or her role in the Biden administration. Instead, they have focused on portraying her as a unifying figure capable of appealing to moderates and independents. This narrative is contrasted with the Republican Party's more chaotic approach, which Shapiro describes as a "bleep show" compared to the Democrats' well-oiled machine.

Harris Campaign's Debate Strategy

Shapiro also discusses the upcoming presidential debates, emphasizing that Harris's campaign is attempting to change the rules to their advantage. They want the microphones to remain hot throughout the debate, allowing for interruptions and real-time fact-checking, which Shapiro believes is a tactic to throw Trump off his game.

RFK Jr.'s Endorsement of Trump

A significant development in the political landscape is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s endorsement of Donald Trump. Shapiro notes that Kennedy, who had been polling between 3% and 8%, formally announced his support for Trump during a speech that criticized the Democratic Party's handling of the election process. Kennedy's endorsement is seen as a potential game-changer, as it could sway undecided voters and further energize Trump's base.

Shapiro highlights Kennedy's critique of the DNC's tactics, which he claims were designed to suppress serious challenges to Biden's candidacy. This endorsement is framed as a significant moment in the campaign, especially given the media's lack of coverage surrounding it. Shapiro argues that if the roles were reversed, and a third-party candidate endorsed Harris, it would have dominated the news cycle.

The Challenges Ahead for Trump

As the podcast progresses, Shapiro emphasizes the challenges Trump faces in the upcoming election. Despite Kennedy's endorsement, Trump must navigate a media landscape that is overwhelmingly supportive of Harris. Shapiro points out that the media has largely ignored Biden's absence from the campaign trail, with Biden's schedule showing little activity. This lack of coverage allows Harris to step into the spotlight without facing the same level of scrutiny.

Fed Rate Cuts and Politics

Shapiro also discusses the Federal Reserve's recent comments about potential rate cuts, suggesting that these moves are politically motivated to benefit the Democrats ahead of the election. The implication is that the economic landscape is being manipulated to create a favorable environment for Harris's campaign.

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