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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

By Ben Shapiro

Step into the charged political arena with Ben Shapiro and special guests Chip Roy, Vera Jourova, Donald Trump, James Carville, Bernie Sanders, and Ajay Banga in "The Ben Shapiro Show." In this episode, Shapiro delves deep into the transformative shifts within the Biden administration's immigration policies. As Biden tentatively steps back from his formerly progressive platform amidst troubling poll numbers and GOP pressures, Shapiro keenly dissects the intricate details of newly emerging bipartisan negotiations and the realpolitik driving these changes.

Beyond America's borders, Shapiro turns a critical lens towards the muddled American foreign policy in the Middle East, exposing the precarious handling of Iran's increasing militaristic ventures and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Concurrently, back on domestic shores, Donald Trump's legal tribulations churn as a constant undertone to his possible 2024 presidential bid. Shapiro offers strategic insight on Trump's VP selection process, examining potential impacts on vital voter demographics. With a blend of sharp analysis and illustrious commentary, this episode unravels the complex tapestry of U.S. politics both at home and abroad.

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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

1-Page Summary

Biden's Political Reality on Immigration

President Biden, facing declining poll numbers and political pressure, has begun to renegotiate his immigration policies with the GOP. Shapiro observes that Biden has likely formed an understanding with Mexico's President to manage the migrant surge, coinciding with the U.S. election cycles and a decrease in border encounters. This agreement potentially includes a significant financial commitment from the U.S. for border management.

Despite his earlier progressive views, Biden seems to be distancing himself from these stances, driven by poor polling outcomes. With 68% of a CBS News poll expressing dissatisfaction with his border policies, Biden is debating Senate compromises that may lead to stricter asylum regulations at the southern border. Shapiro suggests that Republicans have effectively backed Biden into a corner on immigration, potentially forcing him to concede more ground than comfortable.

Impact of No Coherent Middle East Policy

The Middle East presents an escalating security challenge, with Iran at the forefront, carrying out military operations that threaten regional stability. Shapiro criticizes Bernie Sanders for inaccurately portraying Israel's conflict as a war with all Palestinians, neglecting the reality of Israel's efforts to extend humanitarian aid amidst conflict.

Shapiro casts the Biden administration's approach to the Middle East as unclear and inconsistent, especially concerning Iran and regional tensions. The occasional military responses and the U.S. pressure on Israel are deemed ineffective, lacking a definitive strategy to counteract Iran-backed aggression and to bring stability to the region. This lack of direction from the Biden administration raises concerns about the future of the Middle East.

Donald Trump's legal woes continue to unfold in the backdrop of his political endeavors. Shapiro reports that Trump sharply criticized the judge overseeing the defamation lawsuit filed by E. Jean Carroll. Trump's dismissive remarks about the judge and complaints about trial scheduling reflect his typical combative approach.

In anticipation of the 2024 presidential race, Trump has narrowed his Vice President shortlist to three notable supporters. Elise Stefanik emerges as a loyalist with a more centrist voting record. J.D. Vance brings an angle that caters to nationalist conservative views, while Nikki Haley offers a moderate option with strong foreign policy credentials. Shapiro hints at the strategic choice Trump faces, particularly when considering the evangelical electorate, an area where Mike Pence previously provided strength.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • E. Jean Carroll, a writer and columnist, accused Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s. Trump denied the allegations and criticized Carroll, calling her a liar. Carroll filed a defamation lawsuit against Trump for his remarks, claiming they damaged her reputation. The legal battle between Carroll and Trump has been ongoing, with Trump's comments and actions during the case drawing attention.
  • The Vice President shortlist for Trump's 2024 presidential race includes Elise Stefanik, J.D. Vance, and Nikki Haley. Stefanik is known for her loyalty and centrist voting record, Vance appeals to nationalist conservative views, and Haley offers a moderate stance with strong foreign policy experience. Trump's choice of running mate is crucial for appealing to different segments of the electorate, especially considering the influence of the evangelical voter base.

Counterarguments

  • Biden's shift in immigration policy could be seen as a pragmatic response to a complex issue rather than simply a reaction to poll numbers.
  • The financial commitment for border management could be part of a broader, more humane strategy to address the root causes of migration.
  • Stricter asylum regulations could be argued as necessary to ensure that the asylum system is not overwhelmed and can function effectively for those in genuine need.
  • The pressure from Republicans on immigration might be interpreted as a reflection of their constituents' concerns, which Biden is taking into account in a bipartisan approach.
  • The Biden administration's Middle East policy might be characterized as cautious and adaptive to a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape rather than inconsistent.
  • Bernie Sanders' comments on Israel and Palestine could be understood as an attempt to highlight the plight of Palestinians, even if it simplifies the complexity of the conflict.
  • The lack of a definitive strategy in the Middle East could be due to the inherent difficulties in creating a one-size-fits-all approach in a region with diverse political and social dynamics.
  • Trump's criticism of the legal system could be seen as an exercise of his right to free speech and to question the fairness of the proceedings against him.
  • The selection of a Vice President is a strategic decision for any candidate, and Trump's consideration of different profiles could be a way to balance the ticket and appeal to a broader electorate.
  • The evangelical electorate is just one segment of voters, and Trump's choice for Vice President might also aim to address other key demographics and issues.

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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

Biden's Political Reality on Immigration

President Biden appears to be renegotiating his stance on immigration due to various pressures, including poor polling and election year politics.

Biden discussing compromises with GOP on immigration reform

Shapiro speculates that President Biden may have reached an agreement with the President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, to stem the flow of migrants at the U.S. border, aligning with U.S. election timing, a drop in migrant encounters, and reports of increased Mexican enforcement at the border. Mexico's reported actions, such as relocating migrants away from the U.S. border and intercepting northbound immigrants, are seen as the result of U.S. pressure, possibly backed by financial support. López Obrador has suggested a $20 billion aid package to be shared among Mexico and other countries for this purpose.

Biden moving away from progressive stances due to bad polls on immigration

Shapiro discusses Biden's shift on immigration as a response to unfavorable polling, referencing a CBS News poll showing that 68% of people surveyed disapprove of his border policies. Despite his discomfort with the "Remain in Mexico" policy, Biden is considering modifications with an eye on migr ...

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Biden's Political Reality on Immigration

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The CBS News poll mentioned in the text showed that 68% of people surveyed disapproved of President Biden's border policies. This data indicates a significant level of public dissatisfaction with how the administration is handling immigration issues. The negative polling results are a key factor influencing Biden's potential shift in approach towards immigration reform.
  • The "Remain in Mexico" policy, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), was implemented by the Trump administration in 2019. It required asylum seekers arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border to wait in Mexico for their immigration court hearings in the United States. This policy aimed to deter illegal immigration and reduce the strain on the U.S. immigration system. Critics argued that it put vulnerable individuals at risk and violated international asylum norms. The Biden administration initially sought to end the policy but faced challenges due to legal and logistical complexities, leading to discussions about potential modifications rather than an outright repeal.
  • The Senate deals being discussed in the text are related to potential modifications to asylum claim limitations at the southern U.S. border. These deals are part of negotiations between President Biden and Senate members to address immigration issues. The discussions aim to find a balance between border security concerns and ensuring the safety of migrants seeking asylum in the United States. The specifics of these potential deals are not detailed in the text, but they suggest a willingness to make concessions to address the challenges at the border.
  • Republicans have cornered President Biden on immigration by highlighting public dissatisfaction with his border policies, particularly regarding the "Remain in Mexico" policy. This pressure has led Biden to consider compromises and modifications to address concerns about border security and migrant safety. The unfavorable polling ...

Counterarguments

  • The renegotiation of Biden's stance on immigration could be seen as a pragmatic approach to governance, adapting to the changing political landscape and public opinion rather than a simple capitulation to poor polling and election year politics.
  • Cooperation with Mexico on immigration could be part of a broader, more humane strategy to address the root causes of migration and not solely a result of U.S. pressure or financial incentives.
  • The $20 billion aid package suggested by López Obrador might be a proactive step towards a more collaborative and regional approach to migration, rather than a direct response to U.S. demands.
  • The shift in Biden's immigration stance could be interpreted as an attempt to find a middle ground that balances the enforcement of immigration laws with the protection of migrants' rights, rather than a straightforward move away from progressive stances.
  • Disapproval in polls may not accurately reflect the complexity of immigration issues or the long-term effects of policy changes, and thus may not be the best metric for policy decisions.
  • Modifications to the "Remain in Mexico" policy could be aimed at improving the policy's implementation and ensuring compliance with international obligations regarding asylum seekers.
  • Discussions about imposing asylum claim limitations might include safeguards to protect the legal rights of asylum seekers and ensure that legitimate claims are fairly adjudicated.
  • Reforming the as ...

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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

Impact of No Coherent Middle East Policy

The situation in the Middle East is complex, with Iran's military actions affecting various countries, and the U.S. under the Biden administration lacks a clear plan to manage the situation. Shapiro criticizes Bernie Sanders' statements about Israel and the handling of the situation by the Biden administration and expresses concern about stability in the region.

Continued threats from Iran against multiple countries

Iran has been testing its military capabilities, launching an attack that prompted a rare airstrike response from Pakistan. Additionally, Iran-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis are attacking Israel and maritime targets in the Red Sea. These developments are seen as a challenge to regional stability.

Bernie Sanders' false claim about Israel at war with all Palestinians

Ben Shapiro takes issue with Bernie Sanders' claim that Israel is at war with the entire Palestinian people. Shapiro argues that Israel is actively working to protect Palestinian civilians and that Sanders' remarks ignore Israel's efforts to ship humanitarian aid to Gaza, even though the aid is often intercepted by Hama ...

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Impact of No Coherent Middle East Policy

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Iran has been conducting military actions that have raised concerns in the region. These actions include testing its military capabilities and supporting groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis in attacks on various targets. The recent airstrike response from Pakistan was prompted by one of Iran's attacks, highlighting the impact of Iran's actions on neighboring countries. These actions are seen as challenging regional stability and have led to increased tensions in the Middle East.
  • Iran-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis are militant organizations that receive support from Iran. They operate in different regions, with Hamas primarily in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. These groups are known for their anti-Israel and anti-Western ideologies, often engaging in conflicts and attacks against perceived enemies in the region. Their actions are seen as part of Iran's broader strategy to exert influence and destabilize the Middle East.
  • The relationship between Israel and Palestine is characterized by a long-standing conflict over land, security, and political sovereignty. The Isra ...

Counterarguments

  • The Biden administration may argue that its Middle East policy is deliberately nuanced and responsive to the evolving situation, rather than lacking coherence.
  • It could be argued that the complexity of Middle East politics requires a flexible approach rather than a rigid, overarching policy.
  • Some may contend that Iran's actions are a result of its own security concerns and that a diplomatic approach might be more effective than a solely military one.
  • Critics of Shapiro's view on Bernie Sanders' statements might argue that Sanders is highlighting the plight of Palestinians under occupation, rather than accusing Israel of being at war with all Palestinians.
  • There may be an argument that the Biden administration is working behind the scenes through diplomatic channels to stabilize the region, which may not be immediately apparent or publicized.
  • Others might argue that the U.S. should prioritize diplomatic engagement with Iran to re-enter the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as a means to curb Iran's nuclear capabilities and regional aggression.
  • Some could argue that the U.S. support for Israel shoul ...

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The Big Lie Americans Tell Ourselves

Trump's Legal Issues As Campaign Background Noise

Speculation about marks on Trump's hand missing the real issues

There is no information provided regarding speculation about marks on Trump's hand. The real focus lies on his ongoing legal battles and political maneuvers.

Trump ripping the judge in E. Jean Carroll case

In the defamation suit filed by E. Jean Carroll, Ben Shapiro relays that Donald Trump sharply criticized the assigned judge, calling him a "nasty man" and a "Trump hating guy." Trump expressed frustration about scheduling conflicts between attending a funeral and going to the trial, labeling the situation as a disgrace.

Short list for Trump's 2024 VP pick

According to Axios, Trump has narrowed down his potential VP candidates to three. Shapiro discusses the potential candidacies:

  • Elise Stefanik, a Republican Congresswoman from New York and chair of the House GOP conference, is a loyal Trump endorser, being the first member of Congress to do so. Despite right-wing criticism levied at other figures like Nikki Haley for being too moderate, Stefanik’s own voting record, as indicated by her heritage action scores (72% recent and 54% lifetime, with an average House Republican scoring 79%), puts her more liberally than many Republicans.

  • J.D. Vance, another outspoken Trump defender in the Senate, appeals to nationalist ...

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Trump's Legal Issues As Campaign Background Noise

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • E. Jean Carroll accused Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s. In response, Trump denied the allegations and called Carroll a liar. Carroll then filed a defamation lawsuit against Trump for his remarks. The case revolves around whether Trump's statements harmed Carroll's reputation by implying she was lying about the assault.
  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator and author known for his strong support of Republican and right-wing ideologies. In the text, Shapiro is mentioned as relaying information about Donald Trump's legal issues and political activities, providing analysis and commentary on the events surrounding Trump's defamation suit and potential vice-presidential candidates for the 2024 election. Shapiro's perspective often aligns with conservative viewpoints and he is recognized for his articulate and incisive commentary on current affairs.
  • J.D. Vance's evolving policy positions indicate that his views and stances on various political issues have changed over time. This evolution suggests that Vance's perspectives and approaches to governance have shifted or developed in response to different factors or experiences. His changing policy positions may reflect a deeper understanding of complex issues or a response to evolving political landscapes. This adaptability in his policy positions could influence his appeal to different voter demographics.
  • The evangeli ...

Counterarguments

  • The focus on Trump's legal issues might be seen as a distraction from policy discussions that are also important for a presidential campaign.
  • Criticizing a judge could be viewed as an attempt to undermine the judicial process and could reflect poorly on Trump's respect for the separation of powers.
  • The shortlist for Trump's VP pick might not fully represent the diversity of the Republican Party or the broader electorate.
  • Elise Stefanik's more liberal voting record could be a strategic move to appeal to a wider range of voters, rather than a negative aspect.
  • J.D. Vance's evolving policy positions c ...

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