Podcasts > PBD Podcast > Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

By Patrick Bet-David

In this episode of the PBD Podcast, former congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard shares her perspective on various domestic and foreign policy issues. She criticizes the growing extremism within the Democratic Party, prompting her exit. Gabbard also weighs in on the potential charges facing Donald Trump and Patrick Bet-David's view of her as a strong vice-presidential pick.

The conversation delves into US foreign policy, with Gabbard warning against rhetoric about using nuclear weapons and questioning the objectives and oversight of the $95 billion Ukraine aid package. Domestic issues such as the economy, inflation, abortion policies, and campus indoctrination are also discussed.

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

1-Page Summary

Election 2024 Outlook

Former congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard criticizes growing extremism within the Democratic Party, prompting her exit. She expresses concerns over Donald Trump facing charges yet retaining a loyal base. Patrick Bet-David views Gabbard as a strong potential VP pick to appeal to independents.

U.S. Foreign Policy Issues

Gabbard warns against rhetoric about using nuclear weapons, emphasizing diplomacy's importance. She questions the $95B Ukraine aid package's objectives and oversight, suggesting border security should be prioritized over foreign wars spending.

Domestic Policy Issues

Tulsi Gabbard and others highlight the disconnect between Biden administration rhetoric on the economy and Americans' struggles with inflation. Sosnick implies the abortion debate distracts from failures on key issues, while Gabbard shares Trump's view of letting states decide abortion policies.

Campus Indoctrination and Woke Ideology

Examining anti-Israel protests, Gabbard cites examples as indicative of misinformation and indoctrination on campuses. She criticizes the administration's purported lack of strategy against radical Islamist ideology like Hamas, which she likens to ISIS, due to fears of being called Islamophobic.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Patrick Bet-David is a prominent entrepreneur and media personality known for his insights on business, politics, and current events. He often provides commentary on various issues, including the political landscape and potential candidates for different roles. In this context, his view on Tulsi Gabbard as a strong potential vice-presidential pick suggests he sees her as a candidate who could attract independent voters and bring unique strengths to a political ticket. Bet-David's perspective adds a layer of analysis to Gabbard's political trajectory and the dynamics of the 2024 election.
  • Tulsi Gabbard and others point out a discrepancy between the Biden administration's positive economic messaging and the real struggles Americans face due to inflation. The concern is that the administration's rhetoric may not align with the economic challenges experienced by the public. This highlights a disconnect between the government's portrayal of the economy and the actual financial difficulties many Americans are encountering. Gabbard and critics suggest that the administration needs to address these inflation-related issues more directly in its economic policies and messaging.
  • Tulsi Gabbard has criticized what she perceives as misinformation and indoctrination on college campuses, particularly in the context of anti-Israel protests. She has raised concerns about the lack of a clear strategy against radical Islamist ideologies like Hamas, drawing parallels to ISIS. Gabbard's remarks suggest she believes there is a reluctance to address these issues due to fears of being labeled as Islamophobic.
  • Hamas and ISIS are both extremist groups with radical ideologies, but they operate in different regions and contexts. Comparing them can be controversial due to the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. There is a concern that criticizing Hamas may be misconstrued as being critical of Islam as a whole, leading to accusations of Islamophobia. This fear can sometimes hinder open discussions about the actions and ideologies of groups like Hamas.

Counterarguments

  • Gabbard's criticism of extremism in the Democratic Party could be countered by arguing that the party's positions reflect the evolving priorities and values of its constituents.
  • The concern about Trump retaining a loyal base despite charges could be met with the argument that the legal process should be separate from political support, and that individuals are entitled to their political preferences.
  • The idea of Gabbard as a VP pick to appeal to independents might be challenged by suggesting that her views may not align closely enough with those of the broader electorate or the presidential candidate she would be running with.
  • While Gabbard emphasizes diplomacy over nuclear rhetoric, others might argue that strong deterrence language is necessary to maintain global stability and prevent adversaries from miscalculating.
  • The questioning of the Ukraine aid package could be countered by emphasizing the strategic importance of supporting Ukraine for global security and the principles of national sovereignty and democracy.
  • The suggestion to prioritize border security over foreign wars spending could be met with the argument that international engagement and aid can be crucial for addressing the root causes of migration and border security issues.
  • The criticism of the Biden administration's handling of the economy and inflation could be countered by pointing out the global factors contributing to inflation and the measures the administration has taken to address it.
  • The implication that the abortion debate distracts from other issues could be challenged by asserting that reproductive rights are a fundamental issue for many Americans and deserve significant attention.
  • The view of letting states decide abortion policies might be countered by the argument that reproductive rights should be protected at the federal level to ensure equal access for all Americans.
  • The characterization of anti-Israel protests as campus indoctrination could be met with the argument that such protests are a form of free speech and critical engagement with complex international issues.
  • The criticism of the administration's strategy against radical Islamist ideology could be countered by highlighting the complexities of addressing such ideologies without infringing on civil liberties or stigmatizing entire communities.
  • The likening of Hamas to ISIS and the criticism of fears of being called Islamophobic could be challenged by emphasizing the importance of nuanced approaches to different groups and the need to avoid conflating Islam with terrorism.

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

Election 2024 Outlook

With the next U.S. Presidential election already generating anticipation and speculation, several key factors and figures are shaping the landscape, including Tulsi Gabbard and Donald Trump.

Tulsi Gabbard Leaving the Democratic Party

Patrick Bet-David assesses Tulsi Gabbard's history with the Democratic Party, from being the vice chair of the DNC to her support for Bernie Sanders. Despite her previous support for Joe Biden and criticisms of Donald Trump, Tulsi Gabbard eventually left the Democratic Party.

Why Tulsi left the Democrats: Growing extremism and disdain for the Constitution

Gabbard describes her departure from the Democratic Party as a response to what she perceives as growing extremism and opposition to freedom within the ranks. The Democratic Party, she argues, has discarded the Constitution and is undermining the rule of law and politicizing government agencies for power. Adam Sosnick weighs in, implying that her departure underscores a lack of loyalty to the party, while Gabbard insists on her loyalty to the country over any single political entity. She criticizes the Biden-Harris administration for destroying the country and taking away freedoms, with policies like open borders.

Donald Trump's Chances in 2024

Tulsi Gabbard and Adam Sosnick ponder Donald Trump's prospects in the upcoming 2024 election.

Trump's continued support and loyal following

Trump has maintained a "huge base of support that’s very, very loyal," a sentiment echoed by Gabbard and Sosnick. Despite facing multiple felony charges and financial challenges, Trump remains motivated to run for office, fueled by the intention to serve the country informed by the knowledge gained during his previous term. Additionally, he's aware of the significance of appointing leaders with courage, hinting at a strategy to strengthen his campaign.

However, Gabbard outlines her concerns about potential complacency among voters and stresses the need for Trump's campaign to avoid assumptions of victory and work on expanding his support base. She highlights the importance of reaching out to the significant portion of voters unaffiliated with any party and those feeling alienated by the Democratic Party, encouraging efforts to keep voters informed about the candidates' records.

Tulsi Gabbard as Potential VP Pick

Patrick Bet-David and Gabbard herself explore her potential as a VP nominee.

Her qualifications: military service, political experience, courage

Tulsi Gabbard, highlighted as a congresswoman, military veteran, and former presidential candidate, brings a robust portfolio to the table. With 21 years of military service and the distinction of being a state representative at just 21, Gabbard’s foreign policy expertise and leadership exposure suggest she's well-qualified for the role.

Patrick Bet-David regards Gabbard as fearless and a potential game-changer, potentially bringing strategic advantages to an election campaign. He and Sosnick discuss her qualifications and her ability to remain steadfast against political heavyweights, underscoring her mi ...

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Election 2024 Outlook

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tulsi Gabbard was a prominent figure within the Democratic Party, serving as the vice chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Over time, she became known for her support of Bernie Sanders during the 2016 Democratic primaries. Despite her initial support for Joe Biden, Gabbard eventually distanced herself from the Democratic Party, citing concerns about what she perceived as growing extremism and a departure from constitutional principles. This led to her decision to leave the party and pursue a more independent political path.
  • Tulsi Gabbard left the Democratic Party due to her concerns about what she perceived as growing extremism within the party and its departure from principles she valued, such as upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. She criticized the party for what she saw as politicizing government agencies for power and undermining freedoms. Gabbard emphasized her loyalty to the country over any single political entity and expressed her discontent with the direction the Democratic Party was taking under the Biden-Harris administration.
  • Tulsi Gabbard expressed concerns about growing extremism within the Democratic Party, citing what she perceives as a shift towards policies that she believes undermine constitutional principles and the rule of law. She criticized the party for what she sees as a departure from traditional values and a politicization of government agencies for power. Gabbard's departure from the party was influenced by her belief that the Democratic Party was moving towards more extreme positions that she felt were detrimental to the country.
  • Tulsi Gabbard criticizes the Biden-Harris administration for what she perceives as policies that harm the country and restrict freedoms, such as open borders. She believes that the administration is undermining the rule of law and politicizing government agencies for power. Gabbard expresses concerns about the direction the administration is taking the country, particularly in terms of its impact on individual liberties and the Constitution.
  • Trump has faced various legal challenges, including investigations into his business dealings, tax returns, and potential conflicts of interest. These legal issues have led to lawsuits, investigations by authorities, and ongoing court battles. Additionally, Trump has encountered financial challenges, such as debts, bankruptcies in his businesses, and controversies surrounding his financial disclosures. These legal and financial challenges have been significant factors in shaping the political landscape around Trump and hi ...

Counterarguments

  • Tulsi Gabbard's perception of growing extremism within the Democratic Party is subjective and may not reflect the views of all members or the party's overall direction.
  • The claim that the Democratic Party has discarded the Constitution and is undermining the rule of law could be contested by pointing out legislative and policy efforts that aim to uphold constitutional values.
  • Criticisms of the Biden-Harris administration's policies, such as open borders, may not take into account the complexities of immigration policy and the balance between security and humanitarian concerns.
  • Donald Trump's loyal base of support is not universally seen as a positive, with some arguing that it reflects deep political divisions and may not be sufficient for electoral success.
  • Trump's motivation to run for office and his intention to appoint leaders with courage could be seen as subjective and not necessarily indicative of effective governance or policy success.
  • Concerns about voter complacency could be countered by evidence of high voter engagement and turnout in recent elections.
  • While Gabbard's military service and political experience are significant, some may argue that these alone do not automatically qualify her for the vice presidency or that other candidates may have equally or more relevant experience.
  • Gabbard's appeal to independents and disenchanted Democr ...

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

U.S. Foreign Policy Issues

Tulsi Gabbard and other commentators discuss several critical issues in the realm of U.S. foreign policy, ranging from escalating tensions with Russia to domestic priorities overshadowed by foreign wars spending.

Escalating Tensions with Russia and Threat of Nuclear War

Dangers of careless rhetoric about use of nuclear weapons

Tulsi Gabbard warns against the severe implications of using nuclear weapons, stating their power today significantly exceeds the bombs used in Nagasaki and Hiroshima. She criticizes those in Washington and TV pundits who carelessly talk about nuclear weapon use, implying a nuclear war could be won. Gabbard points out the danger of such rhetoric and emphasizes the critical importance of carefully considered actions in foreign policy.

Importance of diplomacy and negotiating peace

Gabbard stresses the importance of reducing nuclear weapon proliferation and engaging with global leaders, referencing JFK's efforts to secure humanity's safety and lower nuclear war risks. She mentions that Russia has shifted from a no first strike policy to one where they may use nuclear weapons if facing an existential threat, highlighting the necessity for diplomatic engagements and negotiations for peace.

Massive Spending on Foreign Wars vs. Domestic Priorities

Questions about objectives and oversight around Ukraine aid

Gabbard expresses her concerns over the lack of accountability with a recent $95 billion U.S. spending package, over $60 billion of which is going to Ukraine. She questions the objectives and how this substantial spending will serve U.S. interests or help to end the war, emphasizing the need for clear outcomes from such aid.

Securing the border as a higher priority for national security

Gabbard implies that immigration and border issues are neglected, alluding to the situation at the border and suggesting it should be a higher national security priority. There is an ongoing debate about the allo ...

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U.S. Foreign Policy Issues

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tulsi Gabbard is a former U.S. Representative from Hawaii who served from 2013 to 2021. She is known for her non-interventionist foreign policy views and has been critical of U.S. military interventions abroad. Gabbard, a Democrat, has also advocated for progressive policies such as Medicare for All and criminal justice reform. She ran for the Democratic nomination for President in 2020.
  • The $95 billion U.S. spending package mentioned in the text is a significant allocation of funds, with over $60 billion designated for Ukraine. Tulsi Gabbard raises concerns about the lack of accountability and clear objectives surrounding this substantial spending, particularly questioning how it aligns with U.S. interests and the goal of ending the war in Ukraine. This spending package has sparked debates about the prioritization of foreign aid over domestic needs like border security, with some commentators highlighting the need for transparency and clarity in such allocations. The context of this spending package underscores ongoing discussions about the balance between foreign policy expenditures and addressing domestic priorities.
  • The discussions on U.S. foreign policy hig ...

Counterarguments

  • The use of nuclear weapons is a complex issue, and while careless rhetoric is dangerous, some argue that a certain level of deterrence rhetoric is necessary to maintain global stability and prevent adversaries from considering nuclear aggression.
  • Diplomacy is crucial, but some experts contend that it must be backed by a credible threat of force to be effective, especially with adversaries who may only respond to strength.
  • Regarding the spending on foreign wars, some argue that aid to Ukraine is an investment in global security and the defense of democratic principles, which indirectly serves U.S. interests by preventing the spread of authoritarianism and maintaining international order.
  • While border security is important, others argue that it should not be viewed in isolation and that foreign aid can address root causes of migration by stabilizing regions and reducing the push factors that lead to people fleeing their home countries.
  • The evaluation of foreign spending ...

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

Domestic Policy Issues

The economy, inflation, and abortion rights debate are key domestic policy issues providing a stark contrast between media narratives and people's lived experiences.

The Economy and Inflation

Concerns are being raised about the disconnect between administration rhetoric and the economic realities faced by Americans.

Contrast between administration rhetoric and people's realities

Tulsi Gabbard, Tom Ellsworth, and Patrick Bet-David discuss the disparity between the administration's claims that "Bidenomics is working" and the actual day-to-day struggles of American families with inflation. Ellsworth highlights troubling economic indicators like slowing GDP growth and rising consumer credit debt. Gabbard notes that high living costs are exacerbated by government bureaucracy and overregulation, particularly in her home state of Hawaii.

Biden economics failing working families

Bet-David brings up concerns about President Biden's proposal to hike the capital gains rate, which contradicts the needs of small business owners. There is evidence of policymakers being out of touch, such as the impact of the tax code revisions on average business owners. Additionally, Gabbard criticizes the government's perspective of seeing increased taxes as revenue without considering the effect on citizens.

Abortion Rights Debate

There are indications that the abortion rights conversation is being used to divert voters' attention from pressing issues.

Efforts to distract voters from failures on real ...

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Domestic Policy Issues

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tulsi Gabbard is a former U.S. Representative from Hawaii known for her independent views within the Democratic Party. Tom Ellsworth is an entrepreneur and commentator on economic issues. Patrick Bet-David is a business owner and media personality who often discusses economic and political topics.
  • The impact of tax code revisions on average business owners can affect their bottom line by changing how much they owe in taxes, impacting their ability to reinvest in their businesses, hire more employees, or expand operations. These revisions can alter deductions, credits, and tax rates, influencing the overall financial health and decision-making of small business owners. Understanding these changes is crucial for businesses to adapt their financial strategies and remain competitive in the evolving tax landscape. The complexity and scope of tax code revisions can vary, leading to differing impacts on businesses depending on their size, structure, and industry.
  • Roe v. Wade was a significant 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that established a woman's constitutional right to have an abortion. The ruling invalidated many state laws restricting abortion and ignited ongoing debates about the legality and regulation of abortion in the United States. The case was brought by a woman using the pseudonym "Jane Roe" who challenged Texas laws prohibiting most abortions. The decision was based on the interpretation of the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendme ...

Counterarguments

  • The administration may argue that economic policies take time to show results and that immediate indicators do not fully capture long-term benefits.
  • It could be argued that slowing GDP growth is a natural economic cycle or a result of external factors beyond the administration's control.
  • Rising consumer credit debt might be influenced by factors other than government policies, such as personal financial management or broader economic trends.
  • Some economists might support increased regulation as necessary for consumer protection, environmental standards, or to prevent market abuses.
  • The proposal to hike the capital gains rate could be defended as a measure to ensure fair taxation, where wealthier individuals contribute a proportionate share to public revenues.
  • The complexity of the tax code might be seen as necessary to address various economic activities fairly and to close loopholes.
  • The government might view increased taxes as a necessary step to fund essential services and investments in public goods that benefit society as a whole.
  • The focus on abortion rights could be seen as addressing a fundamental issue of personal autonomy and human r ...

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Tulsi Gabbard: Abortion, Nuclear War Feud, Trump’s VP Pick | PBD Podcast | Ep. 402

Campus Indoctrination and Woke Ideology

The discussion, including insights from Tulsi Gabbard, centers around concerns of indoctrination on college campuses and a purported rise in 'woke' ideology affecting both educational content and broader policy issues.

Anti-Israel Protests Based on Misinformation

In relation to anti-Israel protests on campuses, some cases exemplify misinformation and a lack of understanding among protestors. Gabbard points out actions like an individual wearing a mask outside during an anti-Israel protest as indicative of a skewed education and a misunderstanding of the issues protested.

The threat of radical Islamist ideology

Gabbard delves into the subject of Islamist ideology, labeling Hamas as a terrorist organization with similarities to Al-Qaeda and ISIS. She expresses the view that these groups are not only involved in violent conflicts but are also waging an ideological war with the end goal of establishing Islamic rule globally.

Lack of big picture strategy from the administration

While Gabbard doesn't use terms like "campus indoctrination" directly, she implies that campuses could be part of a larger problem stemming from what she perceives as the Biden-Harris administration’s lack of an effective overarching strategy. She criticizes the administration for being overly cautious in addressing radical Islam due to fears of being labeled Islamophobic. Gabbard raises concerns about the clari ...

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Campus Indoctrination and Woke Ideology

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Woke" ideology is a term used to describe a heightened awareness of social injustices and systemic inequalities, particularly related to race, gender, and other marginalized identities. It often involves advocating for social change, challenging traditional power structures, and promoting inclusivity and diversity. Critics of "woke" ideology argue that it can lead to excessive political correctness, censorship, and division in society.
  • Tulsi Gabbard is a former U.S. Representative from Hawaii who has been known for her independent and sometimes controversial views on foreign policy, particularly regarding the Middle East. She has been critical of certain Islamist groups like Hamas and has advocated for a more nuanced approach to U.S. involvement in the region. Gabbard has also been vocal about what she perceives as issues related to political correctness and 'woke' ideology, often calling for a more pragmatic and less ideologically driven approach to policy-making. Her perspectives on these topics have generated both support and criticism from various quarters.
  • The connection between campus indoctrination and broader policy issues lies in the concern that ideologies promoted on college campuses can influence societal beliefs and government decisions. Politicians like Tulsi Gabbard suggest that the prevalence of 'woke' ideology in academia may impact how policymakers approach international relations, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This link implies that what students learn and advocate for on campuses can potentially shape future political strategies and diplomatic stances.
  • The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-standing dispute over land and governance in the Middle East. It involves competing claims to the same territory by Israelis and Palestinians, with deep historical, religious, and political roots. The conflict has led to numerous wars, violence, and ongoing tensions, with both sides seeking international recognition and support for their respective causes. Protests related to this conflict often reflect the complexities of the issues involved, including differing narratives, grievances, and aspirations of the Israeli and Palestinian populations.
  • Radical Islamist ideology, as discussed in the text, involves extremist interpretations of Islam that seek to establish Islamic rule globally through violent means. Groups like Hamas, Al-Qaeda, and ISIS are considered terrorist organizations due to their use of violence to achieve their ideological goals. Comparisons between these groups highlight their shared tactics of violence and their ideological motivations rooted in a distorted interpretation of Islam. The discussion underscores the threat posed by these groups not only through physical violence but also through their ideological warfare aimed at imposing their belie ...

Counterarguments

  • Anti-Israel protests on campuses may be driven by a variety of perspectives and concerns about human rights, and not necessarily by misinformation.
  • The labeling of groups as terrorist organizations is often subject to international debate and can reflect geopolitical biases.
  • The aim of Islamist groups varies widely, and not all groups have the goal of establishing global Islamic rule.
  • The Biden-Harris administration may have a nuanced strategy that is not immediately apparent or is being developed through diplomatic channels.
  • Policies regarding Palestine may be part of a complex international strategy that balances various interests and long-term goals.
  • President ...

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