Podcasts > The Ben Shapiro Show > Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

By Ben Shapiro

Dive into the world of policy and politics on The Ben Shapiro Show, where the host and his array of guests dissect some of the most contentious topics at the heart of American discourse. From the Biden administration's immigration and energy policies to high-stakes legal battles surrounding former President Trump, this episode offers a critical look at current events shaping the nation. Hear Ben Shapiro's incisive commentary on the Supreme Court's support for Texas' border security laws, the perceived inconsistencies in the administration's Middle East interventions, and the economic consequences of energy strategy decisions. This discussion isn't just limited to policy—it’s an exploration of the geopolitical chessboard influencing global relations and domestic prosperity.

As election seasons loom, The Ben Shapiro Show also turns a discerning eye towards the strategies and controversies burbling within the Republican Party. The show assesses the potency of Trump's endorsements in the party primaries and the broader electoral implications, debating whether loyalty to individual figures overshadows the push for candidates with mass appeal. With Shapiro at the helm, the episode critiques the GOP's navigation of its political roadmap amidst the turbulence of the 2022 interim and in anticipation of the 2024 presidential race. Tune in for a comprehensive dialogue with guests including Mark Milley, Jack Keane, and others, analyzing the dynamics of power and the shifting sands of American politics.

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Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

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Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

1-Page Summary

Biden Administration Policies on Immigration, Energy, and Mideast

Biden administration faces criticism for a range of actions, including immigration policies that are perceived to be open-border, critiques of the Afghanistan withdrawal, and energy decisions that arguably undermine U.S. energy independence. Ben Shapiro, in particular, has voiced his opposition to these policies and decisions. The Supreme Court decision allowing Texas to enact border security laws is contested by Mexico, accentuating tensions over immigration. The administration's differing approaches to conflicts in Ukraine and Israel highlight discrepancies in foreign policy. Energy policies, including a pause on LNG exports and a reduction in offshore oil and gas leasing, draw fire for their economic impacts, particularly from Shapiro who believes they contribute to high oil prices and weaken U.S. energy sovereignty.

Investigations and Lawsuits Targeting Trump and His Allies

Legal challenges continue to shadow Donald Trump and his associates. Peter Navarro's jailing for contempt of Congress sparks discussions of unequal treatment compared to past administration officials. Ben Shapiro points to precedent cases like Eric Holder's and Alejandro Mayorkas', who faced contempt but not incarceration. Stormy Daniels' claims of receiving hush money out of fear for her life, which Shapiro regards with skepticism, also contribute to the contentious narrative surrounding Trump. The debate over Trump's alleged antisemitism is reignited as Shapiro defends him against accusations by Democrats, emphasizing Trump's pro-Israel actions and Jewish familial ties.

2022 and 2024 Elections and Trump's Endorsements

Trump’s influence in the GOP highlights his role as a kingmaker, with his endorsement contributing to Bernie Moreno's Ohio Senate primary victory. Shapiro, however, stresses that Trump's endorsements do not guarantee success in general elections. Moreno's electability is questioned given his controversial past and shifting political positions. Shapiro critiques the Republican Party for prioritizing loyalty to Trump over candidates' broader appeal, suggesting this could hinder their performance in upcoming elections. Trump's endorsement strategy and its impact on the Republican Party’s electoral success are scrutinized amidst the complex political landscape of 2022 and the approaching 2024 elections.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator known for his strong criticisms of liberal policies and politicians. He often voices opposition to Biden administration policies, particularly on immigration, energy, and foreign affairs. Shapiro's viewpoints are influential in conservative circles, and he is known for his articulate and sometimes controversial commentary on current events and political issues. His perspectives on topics like Trump's controversies, the 2022 and 2024 elections, and the Republican Party's direction are widely followed and debated in the media.
  • Legal challenges against Donald Trump and his associates have continued post-administration, with figures like Peter Navarro facing consequences like jail time for contempt of Congress. Comparisons have been drawn to past cases involving officials like Eric Holder and Alejandro Mayorkas, who faced contempt but not incarceration. Stormy Daniels' allegations of receiving hush money have added to the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding Trump. Additionally, debates over Trump's alleged antisemitism have resurfaced, with discussions focusing on his actions, statements, and relationships with the Jewish community.
  • Stormy Daniels is an adult film actress who claimed to have had an affair with former President Donald Trump. She alleged that she received hush money to keep quiet about the affair, which became a subject of legal and media scrutiny. The controversy surrounding her claims added to the broader narrative of legal challenges and controversies involving Trump and his associates. Ben Shapiro, a conservative commentator, has expressed skepticism about Daniels' claims and their implications.
  • Trump's alleged antisemitism stems from various controversial statements and actions during his presidency that some critics interpreted as discriminatory or insensitive towards Jewish people. However, supporters point to his pro-Israel policies and family ties to Jews to refute these claims. The debate over Trump's alleged antisemitism remains contentious, with differing interpretations based on his rhetoric and policies related to the Jewish community.
  • Bernie Moreno, a businessman and politician, has faced scrutiny for his business dealings and financial history. His political positions have shifted over time, leading to questions about his consistency and core beliefs. These factors have contributed to concerns about his credibility and trustworthiness among voters and critics.

Counterarguments

  • Biden administration's immigration policies aim to balance border security with humane treatment of migrants and asylum seekers.
  • The Afghanistan withdrawal was a complex decision with bipartisan support to end a prolonged conflict.
  • Energy decisions may prioritize long-term sustainability and environmental concerns over short-term energy independence.
  • The Supreme Court decision on Texas border security laws reflects the ongoing debate over states' rights versus federal authority in immigration matters.
  • The administration's differing approaches to Ukraine and Israel may be based on distinct geopolitical contexts and strategic interests.
  • Energy policies may seek to diversify energy sources and invest in renewable energy to mitigate climate change and future economic impacts.
  • Legal challenges against any former president or associates should be based on the rule of law and due process, regardless of political affiliation.
  • Discussions of unequal treatment in legal matters should consider the specifics of each case and the evidence presented.
  • Allegations of misconduct, such as those involving Stormy Daniels, should be addressed through the legal system with respect for due process.
  • Accusations of antisemitism should be carefully evaluated based on evidence and the individual's record, not solely on political rhetoric.
  • Trump's endorsements in primaries may reflect his influence within the GOP and the preferences of the party's base.
  • The Republican Party's focus on loyalty may be seen as a strategy to maintain party unity and support among its base.
  • The impact of Trump's endorsement strategy on the Republican Party's electoral success can only be fully assessed after the elections take place.

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Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

Biden Administration Policies on Immigration, Energy, and Mideast

Various topics around the Biden administration, including immigration policies, the withdrawal from Afghanistan, and energy independence, are under scrutiny, with particular attention to the responses and actions taken by President Biden and his administration.

Biden's Open Border Policies

Supreme Court Ruling Allowing Texas to Enforce Border

Ben Shapiro claims the Biden administration is promoting open border policies and trying to prevent states like Texas from enforcing their border security laws. This assertion comes after the Supreme Court rejected an emergency appeal from the Biden administration, allowing Texas to enforce SB4—a state law criminalizing illegal border crossing and permitting state officials to conduct arrests and deportations. Mexico, however, stated it would not accept deportees from Texas and condemned the law, emphasizing its own sovereign right to protect Mexican nationals in the U.S. and manage border policies independently.

Criticism of Biden Administration's Withdrawal from Afghanistan

Testimony from Generals McKenzie and Milley

Shapiro draws parallels between perceived mismanagement issues, particularly criticizing the administration's actions around Afghanistan, comparing the scenario to what he sees as a lack of a credible plan for aiding Ukraine. Generationals McKenzie and Milley provided testimony that became a focal point in assessing the administration's military and foreign policy decisions. Shapiro points to inconsistency in the administration's demands for military action plans, observing different standards applied to Ukraine and Israel.

Biden Policies Undermining U.S. Energy Independence

Pause on Liquefied Natural Gas Exports

The Biden administration has faced criticism for ...

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Biden Administration Policies on Immigration, Energy, and Mideast

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • SB4 is a Texas state law that criminalizes illegal border crossing and allows state officials to arrest and deport individuals who cross the border unlawfully. The law was the subject of a Supreme Court ruling that rejected an emergency appeal from the Biden administration, enabling Texas to enforce SB4. Mexico has expressed opposition to the law, refusing to accept deportees from Texas and emphasizing its own sovereignty in managing border policies independently. Critics like Ben Shapiro argue that the Biden administration's stance on SB4 reflects a broader debate on immigration policies and border security.
  • Mexico stated it would not accept deportees from Texas due to the state's law criminalizing illegal border crossing. Mexico emphasized its sovereign right to protect its nationals in the U.S. and manage border policies independently. This stance was in response to the Supreme Court allowing Texas to enforce SB4, which permits state officials to conduct arrests and deportations.
  • Generals McKenzie and Milley provided testimony regarding the Biden administration's military and foreign policy decisions, particularly in relation to the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Their testimonies were significant in assessing the handling of the situation and the decision-making processes involved. Critics, like Ben Shapiro, have pointed to these testimonies to highlight perceived mismanagement issues and inconsistencies in the administration's approach to military actions. The generals' insights have been used to evaluate the administration's strategies and responses in Afghanistan and other foreign policy matters.
  • The criticism of the lack of a credible plan for aiding Ukraine stems from concerns over the perceived inconsistency in the Biden administration's approach to military assistance, particularly in comparison to other geopolitical situations like Israel. This criticism suggests that there may be doubts about the clarity and effectiveness of the strategies or support the administration has in place for assisting Ukraine in its challenges. The mention of a credible plan highlights the need for a well-defined and robust strategy to address Ukraine's needs and potential threats in a manner that is seen as reliable and effective. This critique implies a call for more transparent and coherent actions from the administration regarding its commitments and assistance to Ukraine.
  • European allies are exploring alternative sources of liquefied natural gas (LNG) due to supply cuts from Russia. This situation arises from geopolitical tensions or disagreements between Russia and certain European countries. The search for alternative LNG sources is driven by the need to ensure energy security and reduce dependence on a single supplier. Diversifying LNG sources helps mitigate risks associated with disruptions in supply chains.
  • Reducing offshore oil and ga ...

Counterarguments

  • The Biden administration's approach to immigration is not accurately described as "open border policies," but rather as an attempt to reform the immigration system to be more humane and efficient, while still enforcing border security.
  • The Supreme Court ruling on Texas SB4 does not necessarily reflect the federal government's stance on immigration but rather addresses the legal question of state versus federal jurisdiction.
  • Mexico's refusal to accept deportees from Texas could be seen as an exercise of its sovereign rights and a call for bilateral cooperation on immigration issues.
  • The withdrawal from Afghanistan was a complex decision with bipartisan support, acknowledging the prolonged nature of the conflict and the desire to end America's "forever wars."
  • The testimony of Generals McKenzie and Milley may offer insights into the challenges faced during the withdrawal, but it does not necessarily indicate a lack of overall strategic competence by the administration.
  • The administration's approach to Ukraine could be seen as cautious and measured, aiming to avoid direct military confrontation with Russia while supporting Ukraine through sanctions and aid.
  • The pause on pending approvals of liquefied natural gas exports may be part of a broader strategy to assess environmental impacts and long-term energy policy rather than a move against energy independence.
  • The reduction in offshore oil and gas leasing could be part of a transition towards cl ...

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Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

Investigations and Lawsuits Targeting Trump and His Allies

The political controversy continues as former Trump aide Peter Navarro faces jail time, Stormy Daniels fears for her life, and President Trump's actions and intentions come under scrutiny.

Peter Navarro Going to Jail for Contempt of Congress

Peter Navarro, a significant figure within the Trump administration, has been sentenced to jail for contempt of Congress after ignoring a subpoena from the committee investigating the attack on January 6th. Although Eric Holder and Alejandro Mayorkas faced similar charges, they were never jailed. Shapiro notes that Navarro and Steve Bannon are the only officials known to have been jailed over such a charge. Navarro himself points out the potential unfairness of his jail sentence, hinting at a bias against Trump.

Contrast with Past Administration Officials Held in Contempt

Ben Shapiro contrasts Navarro's situation with previous administration officials, such as Eric Holder and Alejandro Mayorkas, who were held in contempt but did not face jail time. Shapiro suggests that jailing Navarro is for the sake of creating headlines about Trump aides being imprisoned over the January 6th events.

Stormy Daniels Claiming She Feared for Her Life from Trump

Stormy Daniels has publicly claimed that she accepted hush money from Donald Trump out of fear for her life, suggesting people had been killed for political reasons, and she wanted to protect herself and her family. Ben Shapiro expresses skepticism over Daniels’ claim of fearing that Trump would have her killed, and he criticizes the media for lending her credibility.

Media Articles Praising the "Deep State" Bureaucracy

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Democrats Making Unsubstantiated Claims About Trump's Alleged Ant ...

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Investigations and Lawsuits Targeting Trump and His Allies

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Peter Navarro, a former Trump aide, faced jail time for ignoring a subpoena related to the investigation into the January 6th attack on the Capitol. Stormy Daniels claimed she accepted hush money from Trump out of fear for her life, suggesting she was threatened due to her interactions with him. Accusations of antisemitism against Trump were scrutinized, with critics pointing to his pro-Israel actions and having Jewish grandchildren as evidence against the claims. The controversy surrounding these figures involves legal issues, personal safety concerns, and political accusations.
  • Ben Shapiro, a conservative commentator, criticizes the treatment of Peter Navarro, suggesting bias against Trump in Navarro's jail sentence. Shapiro questions Stormy Daniels' claim of fearing for her life from Trump and criticizes the media for giving her credibility. He defends Trump against accusations of antisemitism, pointing to Trump's pro-Israel actions and family connections to Judaism. Shapiro also challenges Democrats like Chuck Schumer for their claims of Trump's antisemitism, highlighting what he sees as inconsistencies in their arguments.
  • Eric Holder served as the Attorney General of the United States under President Barack Obama. Alejandro Mayorkas is a politician who has held various government positions, including serving as the Secretary of Homeland Security under President Joe Biden. Chuck Schumer is a prominent Democratic politician who currently serves as the Senate Majority Leader in the United States Senate.
  • The January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol in 2021 was a violent event where a mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol building, leading to chaos, destruction, injuries, and deaths. The attack disrupted the certification of the 2020 presidential election results and was widely condemned as an assault on democracy. It resulted in multiple investigations and legal actions ...

Counterarguments

  • The judicial system is designed to operate independently of political bias, and the sentencing of Peter Navarro could be seen as a reflection of the legal process rather than political targeting.
  • The comparison between Navarro's case and those of Eric Holder and Alejandro Mayorkas might overlook differences in the specifics of their situations, such as the nature of the contempt charges and the context in which they occurred.
  • The media's role is to report on claims and allegations, including those made by Stormy Daniels, and it is up to the public and legal system to assess their credibility.
  • Concerns about antisemitism are serious, and while Trump's pro-Israel actions are noted, some argue that actions supporting Israel do not preclude an individual from holding antisemitic beliefs or making insensitive remarks.
  • The criticism o ...

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Texas CRACKS DOWN on Illegal Immigration

2022 and 2024 Elections and Trump's Endorsements

The political influence of former President Trump remains a focal point in the GOP, particularly as witnessed in recent primaries. Trump's endorsement is a sought-after prize that can sway election outcomes, as seen in Ohio's Senate race.

Ohio Senate Primary Won by Bernie Moreno

Concerns About Moreno's Electability in General Election

President Trump's influence over the Republican Party was apparent when Bernie Moreno won the Ohio Senate primary against opponent State Senator LaRose. This victory was largely seen as a testament to Trump's clout within the GOP. However, analyst Shapiro reflects on the broader electoral context, pointing out that Trump's endorsements throughout the 2022 election cycle generally did not translate into wins for the party.

Beyond the primary win, Shapiro expresses concerns over Moreno's potential performance in the general election. Polling suggests that the incumbent Democratic Senator, Sherrod Brown, holds a five-point lead over Moreno, stirring doubts about his electability.

Shapiro critiques the focus on personal loyalty to Trump over a candidate's viability. He notes that during the primary, Democrats strategically spent money on ads portraying Moreno as excessively conservative, effectively boosting his candidacy among Republican primary voters. From Shapiro's perspective, this could be interpreted as an indirect form of support, aiming to elevate a candidate who might be easier for Brown to defeat in the general election.

Governor Mike DeWine and Senator Rob Portman, both Republicans from Ohio, are cited by Shapiro as harboring reservations about Moreno's capability to successfully challenge Senator Brown. Additional concerns about Moreno's past, particularly a 2009 incident involving ...

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2022 and 2024 Elections and Trump's Endorsements

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • GOP primary voters are typically more conservative and loyal to the party's values. They often prioritize candidates who align closely with their beliefs and support key issues like gun rights, limited government, and lower taxes. Personal endorsements, especially from influential figures like former President Trump, can heavily influence their decision-making process. Understanding the preferences and priorities of these voters is crucial for candidates seeking success in Republican primary elections.
  • In the 2022 election cycle, former Pres ...

Counterarguments

  • Trump's endorsements may energize the Republican base and increase voter turnout, which could be beneficial in both primaries and general elections.
  • The success of a candidate in the primary due to Trump's endorsement could indicate strong support within the party, which might translate to success in the general election.
  • The effectiveness of Trump's endorsements should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, as the political dynamics in each race are unique.
  • Concerns about a candidate's electability are speculative and can be mitigated by effective campaigning and addressing voter issues.
  • The strategy of Democrats to influence Republican primaries by boosting certain candidates may backfire, as voters are unpredictable.
  • Governor DeWine and Senator Portman's reservations may not reflect the broader opinion of the electorate.
  • Past incidents or controversies involving candidates do not always have a lasting impact on their electoral success.
  • Voters may prioritize different issues over a candid ...

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