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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

By Ben Shapiro

Dive into "The Ben Shapiro Show" where Ben Shapiro, accompanied by a panel featuring Donald Trump, Kara Swisher, Susan Glasser, Mike Gallagher, and several journalists along with appearances by Jen Psaki and Benjamin Netanyahu, tackle a mosaic of current political and technological issues. The discussion opens with Trump's unique brand of humor in politics, examining its dual role as both an attraction to his base and fodder for critics who fear it trivializes the gravity of political discourse. The conversation pivots to the intertwined issues of free speech and regulation in the digital age, a topic intensified by the actions of tech companies following the Capitol Hill riot.

Shifting from domestic to international concerns, the panel analyzes setbacks in US foreign policy under the Biden administration with incidents in Niger, Russia, and Israel painting a picture of a complex geopolitical landscape. Touching on technology, the uncertain destiny of TikTok in the US market brings to light the deep-seated tug-of-war between national security considerations and business interests. This episode peels back the layers of these pressing topics, presenting a wide-ranging exploration of the intricate balance between humor, politics, and the struggle over who controls the digital public square.

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

1-Page Summary

Trump's Appeal as a Humorous Political Figure

Donald Trump's humor plays a pivotal role in his political appeal, engaging his base and attracting criticism simultaneously. Ben Shapiro and Politico recognize his humor as a key element of his rhetorical strategy. Trump's humorous labeling of MS-13 gang members as "animals" exemplifies his style, which gains traction among supporters. However, his comedic tactics are challenged by critics who argue that they normalize extreme rhetoric and undermine the seriousness of important political matters. Shapiro highlights that Trump's humor can belittle opponents and make them appear less credible, potentially weakening the public's perception of political adversaries and institutions.

Calls to Censor Speech and Humor Critics See as "Dangerous"

In the aftermath of the Capitol Hill riot, tech companies took action against election misinformation, suspending accounts like Trump's. This sparked discussions about free speech and the role of tech companies. Trump's allies advocate for platforms to remain neutral, fearing censorship, while the Biden administration has retreated from certain speech regulation plans in light of these controversies. These events underscore the delicate balance between curbing misinformation and upholding free speech, a fundamental American principle.

Foreign Policy Setbacks Under the Biden Administration

The Biden administration faces foreign policy challenges, evident in developments in Niger, Russia, and Israel. Niger has cut its counterterrorism alliance with the US, sparked by allegations of a secret uranium deal with Iran and the growing presence of Russian military trainers. Putin's hold on power in Russia appears to be tightening after a vote where he won 88% of the votes. In Israel, pressure from the US for elections raises questions about US-Israeli relations, while Israel's plans for operations against Hamas in Rafah prompt reviews from US officials. These instances showcase various obstacles confronting the Biden administration in the international arena.

Future of TikTok in the US Still Uncertain

The fate of TikTok in the US is unresolved, with a potential forced sale of its Chinese-owned parent company, ByteDance, over national security risks being discussed. Quantifying the impracticality of a forced sale within six months, it may lead to a ban if not resolved. China is reluctant to relinquish control of TikTok's algorithms, seeing them as a strategic asset, and rather than a sale, might shut down TikTok. Alternatives like Project Texas are considered, aiming to supervise TicTok's operations without requiring a full divestment, as the debate on the app's future in the US market continues.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator known for his strong views on free speech and conservative values. He often critiques mainstream media and liberal perspectives, providing a counterpoint to more left-leaning narratives. Shapiro's analysis of Trump's humor in politics reflects his broader stance on political discourse and the role of humor in shaping public opinion. His perspective offers insight into how Trump's comedic approach can influence public perception and political dynamics.

Counterarguments

  • Trump's humor may not be a universally positive aspect of his appeal; some may view it as unprofessional or inappropriate for a political leader.
  • Labeling MS-13 gang members as "animals" could be seen as dehumanizing and not conducive to productive discourse on crime and immigration policy.
  • The argument that Trump's comedic tactics normalize extreme rhetoric could be countered by suggesting that humor is a common tool in political discourse and that audiences can distinguish between jokes and policy positions.
  • The notion that Trump's humor diminishes the credibility of opponents could be met with the idea that political figures have long used satire and ridicule without necessarily undermining the democratic process.
  • The actions of tech companies post-Capitol Hill riot can be defended as responsible stewardship to prevent the spread of harmful misinformation, rather than censorship.
  • The Biden administration's adjustments to speech regulation plans could be seen as a pragmatic response to complex issues surrounding free speech and misinformation, rather than a retreat.
  • Foreign policy challenges faced by the Biden administration could be viewed as typical of any administration and not necessarily indicative of a broader failure or setback.
  • The situation in Niger could be interpreted as a reflection of the complexities of international relations and not solely as a failure of U.S. foreign policy.
  • Putin's electoral victory could be scrutinized for fairness and legitimacy, given Russia's history of electoral manipulation.
  • The pressure for elections in Israel and the review of operations against Hamas could be part of a broader strategy to promote stability and peace in the region.
  • The discussions around TikTok's future in the U.S. could be seen as a necessary measure to protect national security, rather than an unwarranted interference in the free market.
  • China's reluctance to give up control of TikTok's algorithms could be understood as a legitimate protection of its business interests.
  • Project Texas could be viewed as a creative solution that balances national security concerns with the benefits of TikTok's service to U.S. consumers.

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

Trump's Appeal as a Humorous Political Figure

Donald Trump's unique appeal as a political figure has often been attributed to his use of humor, which resonates with his base while simultaneously unsettling critics who see it as a tool to normalize extreme rhetoric and undermine traditional political institutions.

Trump's effective use of humor and "insider-outsider" rhetorical style

Ben Shapiro and Politico reflect on Trump’s political rhetoric, acknowledging that his particular brand of humor has been a significant part of his appeal.

Examples of Trump's humorous rally speeches and debate performances

Trump's effectiveness in using language humorously is evident when he refers to MS-13 gang members as "animals." This kind of statement can be humorous to his followers, who share an "insider-outsider" perspective and resonate with the language used. Trump's humor is also on display during rallies and debates, where his off-the-cuff remarks draw laughter and camaraderie among his supporters.

Media and critics say his humor normalizes extreme rhetoric

Politico claims that Trump's comedic approach might normalize his controversial behavior. Critics and experts in rhetoric suggest his humor desensitizes supporters to his more extreme comments and proposals by turning serious issues into laughing matters. Ben Shapiro echoes this by referring to how Trump's rhetoric is seen as a tool to deflect from his more authoritarian actions or statements.

Humor seen as undermining institutions and political opponents

Critics argue that Trump’s use of humor allows him to belittle his opponents effectively, turning them into jokes rather than legitimate adversaries. Shapiro reflects on instances where the media did not respond to Trump's jokes about his political opponents, implying that by ignoring such comments, the media might be unknowingly normalizing Trump's behavior.

Shapiro also expresses how Trump’s humorous ...

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Trump's Appeal as a Humorous Political Figure

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Trump's "insider-outsider" rhetorical style involves presenting himself as both an insider who understands the concerns of the common people and an outsider who challenges the established political norms and elites. This approach allows him to connect with his base by portraying himself as someone who is not part of the traditional political establishment while also claiming to have insights into its workings. Trump's use of this style helps him appeal to voters who feel disenfranchised by mainstream politics and seek a candidate who they perceive as being different from typical politicians.
  • In 2018, President Trump referred to members of the MS-13 gang as "animals" during a White House roundtable discussion on immigration and sanctuary cities. This statement sparked controversy as critics argued it dehumanized immigrants and fueled anti-immigrant sentiments. Trump's remarks were seen as part of his broader stance on immigration enforcement and border security.
  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator known for his strong views on various issues. He often provides commentary on current events and political figures, offering a perspective aligned with his conservative beliefs. Shapiro's analysis of Trump's humor and rhetoric sheds light on how some view Trump's approach as potentially problematic in terms of normalizing extreme behavior and undermining political opponents. Shapiro's insights are significant in understanding the broader discourse surrounding Trump's use of humor in politics.
  • The January 6th committee members were part of a congressional committee established to investigate the events surrounding the January 6th Capitol riot in the United States. Former President Donald Trump's comment suggesting that these committee members should be jailed is a controversial statem ...

Counterarguments

  • Trump's use of humor may not resonate with his base as much as his policy positions and leadership style.
  • Some may argue that humor is a common tool among politicians and Trump's use of it is not unique or particularly effective.
  • It could be suggested that Trump's humor is often misunderstood or taken out of context by critics, leading to an overestimation of its impact.
  • The claim that Trump's humor normalizes extreme rhetoric could be countered by the idea that humor is a traditional part of political discourse and that the public can distinguish between jokes and serious policy discussions.
  • The effectiveness of Trump's humor in undermining political institutions could be debated, with some suggesting that institutions are robust enough to withstand satirical or humorous attacks.
  • The idea that Trump's humor belittles opponents could be met with the counterargument that political satire and ridicule have long been tools used by all sides in political debates.
  • The perception of Trump being in control due to laughter at rallies could be countered by the argumen ...

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

Calls to Censor Speech and Humor Critics See as "Dangerous"

Recent attempts to manage and mitigate the spread of election misinformation have led to intense discussions and pushback related to free speech and the role of tech companies.

Attempts to hold tech companies accountable for election misinformation

Following the Capitol Hill riot on January 6, the push to counteract misinformation integral to the day's events intensifies. Social media companies respond by suspending former President Donald J. Trump and several of his allies from platforms that had been used to disseminate false claims about Trump’s electoral defeat.

Trump allies fight back against platforms labeling election claims false

Shapiro references a New York Times article that covers how Trump's allies are now challenging these efforts to filter election lies online. They advocate that social media platforms should remain neutral channels for communication, resisting censorship and the influence of groups tied to left-wing politics. Trump and his allies launch a counter-offensive, denouncing what they see as a dangerous move to censor conservative voices. This counter-movement has significantly dampened the momentum to protect elections from the rampant disinformation that characterizes modern social media.

Biden admin abandons some sp ...

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Calls to Censor Speech and Humor Critics See as "Dangerous"

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • On January 6, 2021, a violent mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. This attack disrupted the certification of the 2020 presidential election results and resulted in multiple injuries and deaths. The rioters breached security barriers, vandalized the Capitol building, and clashed with law enforcement officers. The event led to widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the security of democratic institutions in the United States.
  • The counter-movement by Trump's allies against efforts to filter election lies online involves their opposition to social media platforms labeling false election claims. They argue for platforms to remain neutral and resist censorship, claiming that such actions stifle conservative voices. This resistance has slowed down efforts to combat misinformation on social media platforms. The allies of former President Trump view these filtering efforts as a threat to free speech and a means to suppress their viewpoints.
  • The speech regulation plans proposed by the Biden administration aimed to address misinformation and protect democratic processes. These plans faced backlash due to concerns about potential infringement on political speech. As a result, the administration stepped back from some of these p ...

Counterarguments

  • Social media companies have a responsibility to prevent the spread of misinformation, but there is debate over the best way to do this without overstepping on free speech rights.
  • The concept of neutrality on social media platforms is contentious, as some argue that neutrality can enable the spread of harmful misinformation if not checked.
  • The claim of censorship of conservative voices may overlook the broader issue of enforcing policies against misinformation, regardless of political affiliation.
  • The Biden administration's retraction of speech regulation plans could be seen as a failure to address the ...

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

Foreign Policy Setbacks Under the Biden Administration

The Biden administration has experienced setbacks in foreign policy, as evidenced by recent events in Niger, Russia, and Israel.

Niger ends counterterrorism cooperation with the US

Iran sought secret uranium access deal with Niger

The Wall Street Journal reported that Niger decided to terminate its counterterrorism alliance with the United States. This decision followed US accusations that Niger's ruling junta was exploring a secret deal to allow Iran access to its uranium reserves. This has raised concerns with US officials, who also criticized Niger for the lack of progress in returning to an elected government and raised alarms about the arrival of Russian military trainers and equipment in Niger. The termination could affect a $110 million US surveillance drones base and could force the withdrawal of over 600 American troops.

Iran had been attempting to make a deal with Niger for access to uranium, and discussions between the two countries advanced significantly, turning international heads.

Putin consolidates power in Russia after extending his rule

Vladimir Putin has extended his tenure after a vote that was reported to be predetermined, with Putin garnering 88% of the vote according to preliminary results. This development coincides with Putin's comments on state television regarding Alexei Navalny's death, which he called an "unfortunate incident."

Pressure on Israel to hold elections although it frequently has them

Criticism for potential operation against Hamas in Rafah

US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer spoke about Israel needing another election, igniting speculation about US pressure to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ben Shapiro critiques this stance, observing a unity government in Israel that includes Benny Gantz, who might succeed if elections were held. Shapiro argues against the portrayal of Netanyahu as a Putin-esque figure wanting to cancel elections, noting that Israel regularly holds elections.

Ben Shapiro also remarks on Dana Bash's changed questioning during ...

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Foreign Policy Setbacks Under the Biden Administration

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The termination of the counterterrorism alliance between Niger and the US was due to US accusations of Niger exploring a secret deal with Iran for access to its uranium reserves. This decision raised concerns about the lack of progress towards a return to an elected government in Niger and the presence of Russian military trainers and equipment in the country. The termination could impact a significant US surveillance drones base and lead to the withdrawal of American troops from Niger. Iran's attempts to secure access to Niger's uranium reserves were a key factor in the strained relationship between Niger and the US.
  • Iran seeking a uranium access deal with Niger is significant due to the potential implications for nuclear proliferation and regional stability. Uranium is a key component in nuclear weapons development, and Iran's interest in Niger's uranium reserves raises concerns about its nuclear ambitions. Such a deal could also impact international relations and alliances, especially given the existing tensions between Iran and the United States.
  • Vladimir Putin extended his rule in Russia after a vote that many considered predetermined, with him reportedly receiving 88% of the vote. This move allowed Putin to continue consolidating power in Russia, raising concerns about the state of democracy and political opposition in the country. The circumstances surrounding Putin's extended rule have sparked criticism and questions about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in Russia. Putin's extended tenure has implications for the political landscape in Russia and its relations with other countries.
  • US pressure on Israel to hold elections stems from concerns over the actions of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the potential impact on regional stability. Criticis ...

Counterarguments

  • The termination of Niger's counterterrorism cooperation with the US could be seen as a strategic realignment rather than a setback, with Niger possibly seeking to diversify its international partnerships.
  • The US criticism of Niger's slow progress towards an elected government may not consider the complex political and security challenges that the country faces.
  • The impact of the termination on the US surveillance drones base and troop withdrawal could be mitigated by reallocating resources to other regions or through diplomatic efforts to renew cooperation.
  • Discussions between Iran and Niger for uranium access may be within the rights of sovereign nations to pursue their own economic and strategic interests.
  • The vote extending Putin's rule in Russia, while reported as predetermined, could be argued to reflect the support of a segment of the Russian population, and the legitimacy of the vote may be contested within Russia itself.
  • The characterization of Putin's comments on Alexei Navalny's death could be interpreted differently, potentially as an attempt to downplay the incident to avoid further international scrutiny.
  • The suggestion that Israel needs another election could be based on concerns about democratic processes and governance, rather than an attempt to oust Netanyahu.
  • The comparison of Netanyahu to Putin may be intended to highlight concerns ab ...

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“BLOODBATH!” The Fake News Strikes Again

Future of TikTok in the US Still Uncertain

The future of TikTok in the United States remains in limbo as discussions about its ownership and control continue to unfold.

Forced sale in 6 months could be impractical and lead to a ban

Gallagher brings attention to the possibility of a forced sale of TikTok by its parent company, ByteDance, as a measure to alleviate national security concerns, given the algorithm’s opaque nature. He stresses the urgency of resolving TikTok's ownership due to the national security threat it poses and the proximate election season.

However, China is not expected to allow the sale of its stake in TikTok or its algorithms, perceiving the app as a strategic asset.

China won't give up control of TikTok's algorithms and data

ByteDance is seen as a conduit for the Chinese government and is, therefore, unlikely to cede control over significant resources like TikTok’s algorithms, essential to China's strategic operations. Speculation abounds that China m ...

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Future of TikTok in the US Still Uncertain

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The ownership and control issues surrounding TikTok in the United States stem from concerns about national security due to the app's Chinese ownership by ByteDance. There are discussions about potentially forcing a sale of TikTok to address these concerns, but China is hesitant to give up control over TikTok's algorithms and data, viewing them as strategic assets. This reluctance could lead to a ban on TikTok in the U.S. if a resolution is not reached. Various strategies, like Project Texas, are being considered to address these concerns without requiring complete divestment by Chinese stakeholders.
  • ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has close ties to the Chinese government due to its origin in China. In China, tech companies are expected to cooperate with government regulations and policies, an ...

Counterarguments

  • The forced sale of TikTok might not be as impractical as suggested if a suitable buyer is found and the transaction is expedited through a streamlined process.
  • China's refusal to allow the sale of its stake in TikTok or its algorithms could be reconsidered if the right economic or political incentives are presented.
  • ByteDance's control over TikTok's algorithms and data might be negotiable, especially if failing to do so would result in a ban that significantly impacts their market and financial interests.
  • The assumption that China would rather shut down TikTok than share its technology may not take into account the ...

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