Podcasts > Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News > Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

By Rachel Maddow

Dive into an illuminating discussion on "Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News," where Joyce Vance, Lawrence O'Donnell, Trymaine Lee, and a host of other prominent speakers dissect multifaceted issues impacting the political landscape. This episode uncovers the pervasive reach of Russian disinformation entangled with American politics, particularly the fabricated allegations against President Biden and his son. While such claims have been debunked, figures like Jamie Raskin and Frank Figliuzzi critique the perpetuation of these falsehoods by certain Republicans, considering the possibility of legal repercussions for those knowingly spreading Kremlin's propaganda.

The conversation takes a serious turn into America's painful history with speakers like O'Donnell and Lee exploring the tragic expropriation of Black wealth, shedding light on the systematic injustices that stripped away generational riches from Black communities. Coupled with an analysis of President Biden's reelection prospects amid the 'Dump Biden' debate, this episode offers a holistic view of the current state of American governance. O'Donnell challenges the misinformed correlations between a president's public demeanor and effectiveness, invoking historical examples to assert that true presidential merit often remains unseen by the public eye. Join this riveting discourse on "Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News," and untangle the complex web of deceit, history, and the future of American presidency.

Listen to the original

Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Feb 22, 2024 episode of the Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News

Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.

Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

1-Page Summary

Russian Disinformation

The indictment of Alexander Smirnov, who lied to the FBI about President Biden and his son after meeting with Russian intelligence, underscores the ongoing issue of Russian disinformation affecting American politics. Congressman Jamie Raskin highlighted that the impeachment investigation of the Bidens was based on falsified claims associated with Russian intelligence. In light of this, Republicans are criticized for continuing to disseminate lies about the Bidens, with Frank Figliuzzi calling attention to their role in spreading Russian disinformation. Kirschner supports Daniel Goldman's view that legal action should be considered against those spreading Russian propaganda, suggesting a potential conspiracy to defraud the United States.

Trump’s lawyers are reportedly in urgent need of securing $450 million to cover a civil fraud judgment. Efforts to solicit companies for financial assistance in posting the required appeal bond have been met with difficulty, as seen by Trump's $5 million payment to the court. Moreover, Governor Brian Kemp has testified before a special prosecutor, affirming adherence to the law and stating that elected officials, including Trump, are not above it.

Black Wealth Expropriation

Lawrence O'Donnell and Tremaine Lee highlight the systemic expropriation of Black wealth in America. They discuss historical government actions that dispossessed Black Americans of land and wealth. Eminent domain was used to seize properties like Silas White’s beachfront and Bruce's Beach, depriving Black families and communities of generational wealth. Furthermore, they examine government policies that have systematically stripped Black Americans of wealth through discriminatory housing practices like redlining and unfair taxation systems. The impact of such policies continues to affect the economic stability of Black communities, leaving a legacy of lost wealth and concealed truths.

Presidential Campaign

President Biden appears in a strong position for re-election with formidable fundraising achievements and a lead in the polls. Lawrence O'Donnell reports that the Democratic Party lacks a 'Plan B' strategy or organized opposition to Biden’s candidacy. Speculative alternatives, such as Gavin Newsom, show polling deficits and have not indicated any presidential campaign initiatives. Additionally, changing the Democratic nominee at the convention could harm the party’s prospects. O'Donnell stresses that historical instances of contested conventions have typically resulted in general election losses, emphasizing the risks involved in shifting the nomination away from Biden, who currently benefits from substantial fundraising and broad support.

Presidency and Age

Contrary to common belief, Lawrence O'Donnell insists the presidency’s effectiveness is not accurately reflected by the occupant's television appearances. Arguing that key decisions often occur in private and are more significant than public "performances," O'Donnell challenges the narrative that televised presence equates to presidential capability. He recalls past presidents who were effective leaders despite age-related health issues, including Roosevelt who skillfully negotiated war strategies and the formation of the United Nations during World War II. Bi-partisan testimony affirms President Biden's strong decision-making abilities, further countering the notion that age impairs cognitive function or leadership efficacy.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The impeachment investigation of the Bidens in 2023 centered on allegations of corruption involving President Joe Biden and his family, particularly his son Hunter Biden's business dealings. Republicans led the inquiry, aiming to establish connections between Hunter's financial activities and Joe Biden, suggesting corrupt practices. Despite investigations finding no direct evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden, the inquiry proceeded, culminating in a resolution formalizing the investigation in December 2023.
  • Frank Figliuzzi is a former FBI assistant director for counterintelligence. He is known for his expertise in national security matters and often provides analysis on news networks. Daniel Goldman is a former federal prosecutor who served as the lead counsel for the Democrats during the first impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump. He is recognized for his legal expertise and commentary on legal issues related to politics and government.
  • A civil fraud judgment is a legal ruling that determines someone is liable for committing fraud in a civil court case. An appeal bond is a type of financial guarantee required when a party wants to appeal a court decision. It ensures that if the appeal is unsuccessful, the party appealing will have the funds available to cover the original judgment amount.
  • Lawrence O'Donnell is a television host, political commentator, and writer known for his work on MSNBC. Tremaine Lee is a journalist and correspondent who has covered various social and political issues. They often collaborate on discussing and analyzing current events, particularly focusing on topics related to politics, social justice, and systemic issues in America.
  • Eminent domain is the government's power to acquire private property for public use, with compensation to the owner. Silas White's beachfront property was seized through eminent domain, a legal process that allowed the government to take his land for public projects or development. This action historically led to the dispossession of Black Americans from valuable properties, contributing to the systemic expropriation of Black wealth. The use of eminent domain in cases like Silas White's beachfront highlights a dark chapter in American history where Black families were unjustly deprived of their assets.
  • Bruce's Beach was an African-American beach resort in Manhattan Beach, California, owned by Charles and Willa Bruce. It was seized through eminent domain by the city council in 1924, leading to its closure and eventual redevelopment. The property remained undeveloped for decades until efforts were made to return the land to the Bruce family in recent years.
  • Redlining is a discriminatory practice where financial services are denied to certain neighborhoods, often based on racial demographics. This practice has historically targeted minority communities, particularly African-Americans, by restricting access to credit, insurance, and other services. Redlining contributes to economic disparities and perpetuates inequality by limiting opportunities for wealth accumulation and community development. It is a form of systemic racism that has had lasting effects on housing and economic opportunities for marginalized groups.
  • Gavin Newsom is the current Governor of California, serving since 2019. He previously held positions as the Lieutenant Governor of California and the Mayor of San Francisco. Newsom is a member of the Democratic Party and has a background in business, particularly in the hospitality industry with his PlumpJack Group.
  • A contested convention occurs when a political party fails to choose a nominee on the first round of delegate voting at the party's nominating convention. If no candidate secures a majority of delegates' votes after the initial ballot, the convention becomes contested. Delegates may then switch their allegiance to different candidates in subsequent rounds of voting, potentially leading to a clear majority for one candidate. The term "brokered convention" is often used interchangeably with contested convention, reflecting a historical process of negotiation and deal-making among party leaders to determine the nominee.
  • During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt played a crucial role in negotiating and strategizing military operations with his military advisors and allies. He made key decisions on troop deployments, military campaigns, and overall war tactics to ensure the Allied forces' success against the Axis powers. Roosevelt's leadership in coordinating military strategies helped shape the direction of the war and contributed significantly to the eventual victory of the Allies. His diplomatic skills and strategic vision were instrumental in navigating the complexities of the global conflict.
  • Bi-partisan testimony is when individuals from different political parties provide statements or evidence on a particular issue. It indicates that both Democrats and Republicans, or members of multiple political parties, have come together to support or provide information on a specific matter. This type of testimony is significant as it shows a level of agreement or collaboration across party lines, which can lend credibility and broader support to the information being presented.

Counterarguments

  • The indictment of Alexander Smirnov may not necessarily prove a widespread issue of Russian disinformation, as it could be an isolated incident.
  • Some may argue that the impeachment investigation of the Bidens, while possibly influenced by Russian disinformation, also raised legitimate questions that warranted examination.
  • Republicans might contend that their scrutiny of the Bidens is based on genuine concerns about corruption and not merely the spread of disinformation.
  • There could be a debate about the balance between free speech and the legal implications of spreading what is deemed propaganda, with some advocating for caution in how such legal actions are pursued.
  • Trump's lawyers' need for $450 million could be seen as a legal challenge rather than an indication of any wrongdoing on Trump's part.
  • While Governor Brian Kemp asserts that no one is above the law, some may argue that the legal processes involving Trump are politically motivated.
  • Discussions on the systemic expropriation of Black wealth might be met with counterarguments emphasizing individual responsibility and economic choices, though these views can be controversial and may overlook historical context.
  • Some may argue that current government policies are aimed at correcting past injustices and that progress has been made in addressing the wealth gap.
  • While President Biden may appear strong for re-election, others might argue that new leadership could bring fresh ideas and energy to the Democratic Party.
  • The lack of a 'Plan B' strategy could be defended by some as a sign of party unity and confidence in the incumbent president.
  • The potential harm of changing the Democratic nominee at the convention could be countered by the argument that a contested convention could energize the party base if there is significant support for an alternative candidate.
  • The effectiveness of the presidency might be argued to indeed correlate with public appearances, as they are a key aspect of leadership and communication with the public.
  • While past presidents have led effectively despite health issues, some may argue that the demands of the modern presidency require a high level of public engagement and transparency about the president's health.
  • Bi-partisan testimony about President Biden's decision-making abilities could be met with skepticism from those who believe that age-related decline is a legitimate concern for presidential candidates.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

Russian Disinformation

The discussion of Russian disinformation and its impact on American politics touches on the indictment of a key individual, the implications for Congressional members spreading disinformation, and the legal troubles of Trump’s lawyers.

Ongoing Republican dependence on lies and disinformation from Russian sources

The conversation about Russian disinformation covers notable developments in the political landscape involving Republican members of Congress and their dependence on discredited sources.

Indictment of key witness against Bidens for lying to FBI after meeting Russian intelligence

Prosecutors have indicted an individual named Alexander Smirnov for making false statements to the FBI about President Biden and his son, Hunter. This comes after Smirnov reportedly met with Russian intelligence officials and is now said to be "actively peddling new lies that could impact US elections." Jamie Raskin alluded to how the impeachment investigation’s foundation, centered on claims made by a key witness, turned out to be false and likely concocted with Russian intelligence.

Republicans continue lying about Bidens despite discredited witness

Despite the discredit to their key witness through indictment, there is a concern that Republicans plan to persist in conveying falsehoods about the Bidens. Frank Figliuzzi pointed out that GOP members who continue to promote information from this discredited source are participating in spreading Russian disinformation.

Potential criminal liability for members of Congress spreading Russian lies and propaganda

Kirschner, echoing Congressman Daniel Goldman, suggests that if GOP members keep disseminating lies derived from Russian propaganda, there should be a criminal investigation into whether they are conspiring to defraud the United States and interfere in elections.

Investigations into Trump lawyers possibly soliciting companies to help cover $450M fraud judgment

There are reports that Trump's legal team is urgently attempting to generate a staggering $450 million, which includes prejudgment interest, to cover a civil fraud judgment. His lawyers have reached out to several compan ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Russian Disinformation

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The connection between Russian disinformation and the legal troubles of Trump's lawyers lies in the broader context of ongoing investigations and legal challenges faced by individuals associated with the Trump administration. These legal troubles are part of a complex web of legal issues that have emerged following various events and actions involving key figures in American politics. The intertwining of Russian disinformation and legal matters related to Trump's lawyers underscores the intricate and multifaceted nature of contemporary political and legal landscapes. The link between these two seemingly disparate elements highlights the interconnectedness of different aspects of high-profile cases and investigations in the current political climate.
  • Governor Brian Kemp's testimony is significant as it sheds light on Trump's efforts to overturn the election results in ...

Counterarguments

  • The indictment of Alexander Smirnov may not necessarily prove a widespread issue of disinformation within the Republican party; it could be an isolated incident.
  • The persistence of some Republicans in discussing the Bidens could be driven by genuine concerns or unanswered questions they believe have not been adequately addressed, rather than an intent to spread disinformation.
  • The suggestion of criminal liability for members of Congress could raise concerns about freedom of speech and the potential for such measures to be used to silence political opposition.
  • The efforts of Trump's legal team to raise funds to cover a civil fraud judgment ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

Black Wealth Expropriation

Lawrence O'Donnell and Tremaine Lee delve into the historical context and ongoing consequences of Black wealth expropriation in America, revealing a pattern of government actions that stripped Black Americans of land, property, and potential generational wealth.

History of government seizing land and property from Black Americans

The long history of injustices is often overlooked as many families have ceased discussing the trauma associated with such seizures, leading to a forgotten or buried legacy.

Beachfront property seizure by eminent domain in Santa Monica, CA that deprived generations of wealth

O'Donnell and Lee draw parallels between two well-known instances of property seizure. Silas White's beachfront property in Santa Monica was taken by the government using the mechanism of eminent domain. This act deprived the family—and, by extension, the broader community—of a valuable asset and the wealth that would have followed for generations.

Similar seizure of Bruce's Beach property in Manhattan Beach, CA

Likewise, the Bruce's Beach property in Manhattan Beach saw a similar fate. This seizure represented not just an isolated instance of injustice, but a broader pattern of wealth extraction from Black communities.

Government policies that have stripped Black Americans of wealth across generations

The past actions of both federal and state governments involved a series of tactics designed to systematically deprive Black Americans of wealth through various means, including discriminatory housing practices and unfair taxation systems.

Housing discrimination

Redlining, a notorious form of housing discrimination, played a significant role in the expropriation of Black wealth. It restricted where Black Americans could live and receive loans, severely limiting their ability to own property and accumulate wealth.

Unj ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Black Wealth Expropriation

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Eminent domain is a government's authority to take private property for public use, with compensation to the owner. It is typically used for projects like roads, government buildings, and public utilities. In some cases, the government can transfer the property to a private entity for redevelopment if it serves a public purpose. The concept ensures that private property rights are balanced with the needs of the community.
  • Redlining is a discriminatory practice where financial services are denied to neighborhoods with racial minorities, particularly African-Americans. It involves denying credit, insurance, and other services based on the racial makeup of an area. This practice has contributed to economic disparities and limited opportunities for wealth accumulation in minority communities. Redlining is a form of systemic racism that has had lasting impacts on housing and economic inequality in the United States.
  • The Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 was a government initiative during the Civil War that aimed to end slavery by ...

Counterarguments

...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

Presidential Campaign

Current status of 2024 campaign

As we enter the final stretch of what is commonly a four-year presidential campaign, discussions arise concerning the viability of current candidates and potential alternatives.

Biden's strong position based on accomplishments, delegate count, fundraising

O'Donnell starts by explaining the current strong positioning of President Biden in his re-election campaign. With a Quinnipiac poll showing Joe Biden ahead of Donald Trump 49 to 45, and the fact that the Biden-Harris reelection campaign has an impressive $56 million on hand at the end of January—compared to Trump's $30 million—the President appears to be in a firm position for reelection. Furthermore, the Democratic National Committee boasts $24 million, outstripping the Republican National Committee's $8 million. Additional PACs and fundraising committees supporting Biden-Harris add up to $117 million at the start of the year, enhancing his robust fundraising status. In stark contrast, Ezra Klein underscores Biden's viability by pointing to his significant accomplishments, disputing any notion that he should not continue as the nominee.

Lack of organized opposition or "Plan B" strategy within Democratic Party

The practicality of replacing Biden at this juncture seems improbable, as there is no substantial opposing candidate or prepared alternative strategy within the Democratic Party. Politico’s headline casts doubt on the feasibility of a "Plan B," despite acknowledging Biden as likely to remain on the ticket. O'Donnell reinforces this point, indicating that there is no serious consideration within the Democratic Party for an alternative to President Biden's candidacy. Additionally, there's no evidence to suggest that other Democrats, termed potential nominees, have been fundraising for a presidential campaign, further emphasizing the absence of an organized opposition or a "Plan B."

Polling weakness for hypothetical alternatives like Gavin Newsom

O'Donnell refutes media speculation around potential candidates such as Gavin Newsom by highlighting the lack of polls showing Newsom performing better than Biden against Trump. In fact, polls reflect a 10-point deficit for Newsom against Trump, marking significant polling weakness that undermines the notion of him as a viable alt ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Presidential Campaign

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Quinnipiac poll mentioned in the text is a survey conducted by Quinnipiac University to gauge public opinion on political issues, including presidential candidates. The specific poll results cited show Joe Biden leading Donald Trump by a margin of 49% to 45% in a head-to-head matchup. These polls are significant indicators of voter sentiment and can influence perceptions of candidate viability in an election campaign.
  • President Biden's re-election campaign had $56 million on hand at the end of January, while Trump's campaign had $30 million. The Democratic National Committee had $24 million, surpassing the Republican National Committee's $8 million. Biden-Harris had a total of $117 million from various PACs and fundraising committees at the start of the year.
  • The lack of organized opposition or a "Plan B" strategy within the Democratic Party means that there is currently no clear alternative candidate or backup plan in place in case President Biden's candidacy faces significant challenges. This absence of a strong alternative within the party makes it difficult to envision a smooth transition to a different nominee at this stage of the campaign. It suggests that the Democratic Party is heavily reliant on Biden as the primary candidate for the upcoming election, with limited contingency options available. This situation underscores the current dominance of Biden within the party and the challenges associated with considering alternative candidates.
  • A contested convention occurs when no candidate has secured a majority of delegates before the convention. This situation can lead to intense negotiations and multiple rounds of voting to determine the party's nominee. Historical examples, like the 1968 Democratic National Convention, have shown that contested conventions can result in party divisions and weaken the eventual nominee's chances in the general election. The potential for chaos and internal strife during a contested convention can harm the party's unity and public perception, impacting its electoral prospects.
  • Federal campaign fundraising laws regulate how money can be raised and spent in federal elections. T ...

Counterarguments

  • While President Biden may have a strong position in terms of fundraising and delegate count, his approval ratings and public opinion could fluctuate significantly before the election, potentially weakening his position.
  • The absence of a "Plan B" strategy might indicate a lack of preparedness within the Democratic Party to adapt to unforeseen circumstances that could impact the viability of Biden's candidacy.
  • Polling data, especially early in a campaign, may not accurately reflect the electorate's final decision, and hypothetical alternatives could gain popularity as the campaign progresses.
  • The notion that changing the nominee at the convention would severely damage the party's prospects is not a certainty; it could also lead to a revitalized campaign if the new nominee resonates better with the electorate.
  • While Newsom may ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
Lawrence on what they don’t tell you about the Dump Biden ‘fantasy’

Presidency and Age

Lawrence O'Donnell addresses the common misconception that the presidency's effectiveness can be gauged solely by the public's perception of the president's televised "performances."

Public perceptions misjudge aspects of job performance

O'Donnell challenges the narrative set by television, emphasizing that it captures only the "performance" aspect of a president's role. He states that the most crucial decisions made by presidents are often in private meetings that aren't broadcasted.

TV cameras only capture "performance" not actual governing decisions

O'Donnell argues that television has fundamentally altered the perceived role of the presidency, leading to a theatrical evaluation by the political press which prioritizes public appearance over actual governing. He contrasts modern televised expectations with past presidents such as Roosevelt, Lincoln, and Washington, suggesting they would have encountered difficulties with the "performance" demands of today's media landscape.

Cognitive fitness in private more important than speechmaking

Furthermore, O'Donnell points out that a president's cognitive fitness and behind-the-scenes decision-making hold more weight than their ability to deliver speeches. Reflecting on historical figures like President Roosevelt, who made significant decisions despite declining health and advanced age, O'Donnell highlights the capacity to lead effectively under challenging circumstances.

Historical comparisons show leaders' effectiveness despite age and declining health In recounting Roosevelt's leadership during World War II and his role in establishing the United Nations, O'Donnell conveys that critical leadership does not solely re ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Presidency and Age

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Lawrence O'Donnell argues that the public's perception of a president's effectiveness is often skewed by what is shown on television, which mainly captures the president's public appearances rather than their behind-the-scenes decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of a president's cognitive fitness and private decision-making over their ability to deliver speeches. O'Donnell uses historical examples like President Roosevelt to illustrate that effective leadership goes beyond physical health and public image, highlighting the significance of critical decision-making in challenging circumstances. Additionally, O'Donnell points out bipartisan recognition of President Biden's strong decision-making skills, particularly in successful negotiations with Republicans, challenging the notion that age necessarily hinders a leader's cognitive abilities or governing efficiency.
  • The comparison highlights how modern presidents face different challenges due to the influence of television on public perception. Past presidents like Roosevelt, Lincoln, and Washington did not have to navigate the same level of scrutiny and performance expectations from the media. The contrast underscores the evolving nature of the presidency in the context of changing communication technologies and media landscap ...

Counterarguments

  • While public perceptions may not capture all aspects of a president's job performance, they are still a relevant indicator of a leader's ability to communicate and connect with the populace, which is an essential aspect of democratic leadership.
  • Although TV cameras focus on the "performance" aspect, transparency and public visibility are important for democratic accountability, and televised appearances can provide insights into a president's priorities and values.
  • Speechmaking and public communication are critical skills for a president, as they can inspire confidence, articulate policy, and rally the nation in times of crisis, which are also key components of leadership.
  • While historical leaders have indeed been effective despite age and health issues, modern presidencies face unique challenges and a faster pace of inform ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free

Create Summaries for anything on the web

Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser

Shortform Extension CTA