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World War III: China Edition

By Ben Shapiro

Dive into the complexities of global politics and domestic challenges in "The Ben Shapiro Show," featuring a candid discussion led by Ben Shapiro with insights from various speakers. Ben Shapiro brings his critique on President Biden's foreign policy stance toward China, juxtaposing the leniency of the current administration's language directives with the previous administration's tougher tactics. As U.S. troops assist Taiwan amidst China's growing military assertiveness, Shapiro navigates through the geopolitics of microchip production and Taiwan's strategic importance, unraveling the delicate balancing act of U.S.-China relations and its implications for global stability.

Meanwhile, Shapiro shifts focus to the home front, dissecting the escalating squatting crisis in America. He spotlights New York's housing laws through the predicament of Queens homeowner Adele Andelaro, setting the stage for a broader conversation about property rights and the spectrum of state-level responses, such as Florida's stringent countermeasures. Additionally, the episode delves into the controversial hearings on Hunter Biden's foreign business ventures, with Tony Babulinski's claims stirring up a political storm and partisan defenses. "The Ben Shapiro Show" challenges listeners to consider the multifaceted dynamics of international diplomacy and domestic policies playing out on today's political stage.

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World War III: China Edition

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World War III: China Edition

1-Page Summary

Tensions Rising With China Over Taiwan

Ben Shapiro criticizes President Biden’s foreign policy as weak, suggesting it emboldens adversaries like China. He is particularly concerned about the administration’s internal directive to intelligence officers to avoid using certain phrases like "Salafi jihadist," which he sees as a sign of weakness with potential international repercussions. U.S. troops are stationed in Taiwan to train Taiwanese forces following the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023, which is a response to China's aggressive military posturing, including jet incursions and advancing hypersonic missile capabilities. Shapiro warns that China's aggression and ambitions, particularly concerning microchip production, could lead to conflict and believes that Taiwan plays an integral role in U.S. military superiority. Contrasting the hardline tariffs on Chinese imports by the previous administration, Shapiro views Biden’s more conciliatory approach as potentially increasing the risk of conflict. Additionally, he mentions the U.S. proposing alternatives to Israeli strikes in Gaza, suggesting a shift in the American Middle East policy.

America's Squatting Crisis Reaching Boiling Point

Shapiro addresses the critical levels of America’s squatting crisis, especially highlighted by New York’s housing laws that enable squatters to easily claim residency, complicating eviction processes. He shares the anecdote of homeowner Adele Andelaro in Queens, highlighting the challenges homeowners face, including New York’s laws that protect squatter claims and forbid utility shutoffs or lock changes without a court order. Contrarily, Florida has taken robust measures against squatting with House Bill 621, which allows for immediate eviction by the Sheriff's Office and criminal charges against squatters, marking a significant shift from New York’s policy and demonstrating Florida’s protection of property owners' rights.

House GOP Holding Hearings on Hunter Biden Corruption

The House GOP’s hearings on Hunter Biden's business dealings raise new claims about President Joe Biden’s involvement. Shapiro draws attention to Tony Babulinski’s testimony, a former business associate of Hunter Biden, who implicated "the big guy," suggested to be Joe Biden, in a pay-for-play scandal. Babulinski accuses the president of involvement in various corrupt activities, though without specifying crimes. The Democrats respond by framing the allegations as Russian disinformation, using testimony from Lev Parnas, who asserts that the claims originate from Russian propaganda. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries accuses his Republican colleagues of politicizing the situation, insinuating that the allegations are similarly politicized and echo the Russian disinformation narrative.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Salafi jihadism is a Sunni Islamist ideology advocating for a global caliphate through military jihadist actions against various targets. It emerged from the Afghan jihad against the Soviet Union and evolved to target perceived enemies of Islam, including the United States and Muslim-majority governments. Salafi jihadists follow a hybrid ideology combining Salafism and militant jihadism, often clashing with mainstream Salafi scholars who promote political quietism. This movement has seen fluctuations in influence over the years, with some periods of growth and decline.
  • The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is a crucial annual U.S. federal law that outlines the budget and policies for the Department of Defense. It is passed by Congress to determine defense funding levels, allocate resources, and establish defense-related policies. The NDAA plays a significant role in shaping the U.S. military's capabilities and operations. The Act is a key legislative tool used to support and oversee national defense priorities and initiatives.
  • Hypersonic missile capabilities refer to missiles that travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. These missiles are extremely fast and maneuverable, making them difficult to defend against using traditional missile defense systems. Countries like China investing in hypersonic technology raise concerns about their ability to strike targets with unprecedented speed and precision, posing significant challenges to existing defense strategies.
  • Taiwan is a significant player in the global semiconductor industry, with companies like TSMC leading in advanced chip manufacturing. The country's expertise in microchip production is crucial for various technologies, including smartphones, computers, and defense systems. China's interest in Taiwan extends to its semiconductor capabilities, as controlling this sector would enhance China's technological and military prowess. The strategic importance of Taiwan in microchip production has implications for global supply chains and geopolitical power dynamics.
  • The previous administration, under President Donald Trump, implemented aggressive tariffs on a wide range of Chinese imports as part of its trade policy. These tariffs were aimed at addressing trade imbalances, intellectual property issues, and other trade-related concerns between the U.S. and China. The tariffs led to a trade war between the two countries, impacting various industries and causing economic tensions. The approach was a departure from traditional trade practices and aimed to pressure China into changing its trade practices.
  • House Bill 621 in Florida allows for immediate eviction by the Sheriff's Office and criminal charges against squatters. This bill marks a significant departure from New York's policies on squatting. It aims to protect property owners' rights and streamline the process of removing squatters from properties. The bill provides a more robust legal framework to address the issue of squatting in Florida.
  • Tony Bobulinski, a former business associate of Hunter Biden, claimed that Joe Biden was involved in a pay-for-play scandal related to business dealings. Bobulinski alleged that Joe Biden was referred to as "the big guy" in communications discussing financial arrangements. The allegations suggest a potential conflict of interest involving Joe Biden and his family's business activities. These claims have been a subject of political controversy and debate.
  • Lev Parnas, a former associate of Rudy Giuliani, testified that the allegations against Hunter Biden were part of a Russian disinformation campaign. Parnas claimed that the accusations were not credible and were being used to influence American politics. Democrats used Parnas's testimony to argue that the claims against Hunter Biden were politically motivated and not based on factual evidence. The suggestion was that the allegations were being weaponized for political gain and were not rooted in genuine concerns about corruption.

Counterarguments

  • The Biden administration's foreign policy may be characterized by a more diplomatic and multilateral approach, which could be seen as a strategic method to manage international relations, including with China.
  • The directive to intelligence officers to avoid certain phrases might be intended to foster a more inclusive and less inflammatory language that could aid in counterterrorism efforts and international relations.
  • The presence of U.S. troops in Taiwan could be viewed as a necessary deterrent against potential aggression and a means to maintain stability in the region.
  • The U.S. government's efforts to ensure a secure supply chain for microchips and other critical technologies could be seen as a strategic move to maintain technological superiority and economic security.
  • Biden's approach towards China might be part of a broader strategy to engage China on various fronts, including economic, diplomatic, and military, to prevent conflict rather than increase its risk.
  • The proposed alternatives to Israeli strikes in Gaza could reflect an attempt to reduce civilian casualties and find a more sustainable solution to the conflict.
  • The squatting crisis in America, particularly in New York, may require a balanced approach that protects the rights of property owners while also addressing the needs of the homeless and housing insecure populations.
  • Florida's House Bill 621 might be criticized for potentially infringing on the rights of individuals who may have legitimate claims to residency or who may be unjustly labeled as squatters.
  • The hearings on Hunter Biden's business dealings could be seen as a legitimate exercise of congressional oversight, provided they are conducted fairly and based on substantiated evidence.
  • The framing of allegations as Russian disinformation could be challenged if there is credible evidence to support the claims made against Hunter and Joe Biden.
  • Accusations of politicization could be countered by arguing that investigating potential corruption is a non-partisan issue that is in the public interest, regardless of the political affiliations of those involved.

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World War III: China Edition

Tensions Rising With China Over Taiwan

The debate over President Biden's foreign policy strength comes to the fore as U.S.-China relations remain fraught over Taiwan.

Biden shows "weakness" in foreign policy

Shapiro offers a scathing critique of President Biden, attributing perceived weakness to the Biden administration, potentially emboldening adversaries like China. He disapproves of the president's rhetoric and foreign policy direction, equating it with an unwillingness to confront geopolitical realities. Specifically, Shapiro cites an exclusive story about an internal directive within the Biden administration's intelligence community, advising officers to refrain from using phrases like "Salafi jihadist," "jihadist," "Islamic extremist," and "radical Islamists." Shapiro interprets this as a problematic indication of weakness that could have international repercussions.

China advancing military capabilities, threatening Taiwan

Moving to the situation with Taiwan, it has been confirmed that U.S. troops are stationed on the islands within the Taiwan Strait. Following the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023, these troops are there to train Taiwanese forces. Meanwhile, China's military posturing continues unabated, with frequent jet incursions near the Taiwan Strait and advancements in hypersonic missile tests, intensifying the threat to Taiwan.

Shapiro delves into the potential catastrophic consequences of Chinese miscalculation. He suggests that China's aggression could lead to conflict if they wrongly assume the Biden administration will not respond. Furthermore, Shapiro sees China's military ambitions, particularly regarding the control of high-end microchip production—a sector in which Taiwan dominates globally—as central to this tension. He theorizes that China’s strategy could be to pressure Taiwan into electing a more China-friendly government to gain access to these microchips without direct conflict.

Shapiro also emphasizes Taiwan's strategic importance b ...

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Tensions Rising With China Over Taiwan

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Shapiro criticizes President Biden's foreign policy for perceived weakness, citing concerns about the administration's reluctance to use certain terms related to extremism and its approach towards China, which he believes could embolden adversaries like China. He highlights a directive within the intelligence community as an example of this perceived weakness, suggesting it could have negative international implications. Additionally, Shapiro expresses worry about Biden's conciliatory stance towards China, contrasting it with the previous administration's more aggressive tactics, which he believes could increase the risk of conflict.
  • Taiwan is a global leader in high-end microchip production, a critical component in various technologies. Control over this sector is strategically important for national security and economic competitiveness. The advanced microchips manufactured in Taiwan are essential for industries like electronics, defense, and telecommunications. This dominance gives Taiwan significant leverage in global supply chains and technological advancements.
  • Taiwan's democratic status is significant to the U.S. as it aligns with American values and interests in supporting democratic nations. This alignment fosters a closer relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan, including military cooperation and strategic partnerships. Taiwan's democratic governance also enhances regional stability and security, which ...

Counterarguments

  • Biden's approach to foreign policy may be more strategic and cautious rather than weak, aiming to avoid unnecessary escalation and to engage in diplomacy.
  • Refraining from using phrases like "Salafi jihadist" and "Islamic extremist" could be part of a broader strategy to avoid alienating moderate Muslims and to prevent the alienation of potential allies in the fight against terrorism.
  • The presence of U.S. troops in Taiwan could be seen as a strong deterrent against Chinese aggression, rather than a sign of weakness.
  • China's military advancements are concerning, but they may also be part of a modernization program that is typical of rising powers, not necessarily an immediate precursor to aggression.
  • The assumption that China will miscalculate U.S. responses could underestimate the diplomatic channels and mutual understanding between the two nations.
  • The strategy of pressuring Taiwan into electing a more China-friendly government is speculative and may not reflect the complex internal dynamics and democratic processes of Taiwan.
  • The strategic importance of Taiwan is recognized, but engagement with China could also be part of a broader strategy to ensure stability in the region and to avoid direct confrontation.
  • Tariffs on Chinese vehicle imports b ...

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World War III: China Edition

America's Squatting Crisis Reaching Boiling Point

America faces a squatting crisis, with startling instances of families being ousted by squatters, reaching critical levels as indicated by recent reports.

New York's squatting laws enable illegal occupants

Shapiro points out that in New York City, squatters can easily take over temporarily empty apartments or houses. Local laws in New York require a court order before an eviction can take place, causing a major hurdle in removing unlawful occupants. Even with police involvement and changed locks, there have been situations where squatters simply return; the problems are seen as civil landlord-tenant disputes that are to be resolved through the housing court system, not directly by the police.

A homeowner named Adele Andelaro experienced such an ordeal in Flushing, Queens, where she found squatters in her home. After 30 days, squatters in New York are seen as if they had merely overstayed on rent, rather than never having rented in the first place.

New York law further complicates the matter by prohibiting homeowners from turning off utilities, changing locks, or removing the possessions of someone who claims to be a tenant — even if that person has never paid rent. There are even reports of social media users on platforms like TikTok offering advice on how to exploit these laws to squat in someone’s home.

Shapiro criticizes the state's squatting laws, particularly in New York and California, accusing them of lacking respect for property rights and enabling unlawful occupation of properties.

Florida passes law to stop squatters' rights

Meanwhile, Florida lawmakers are taking a stanc ...

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America's Squatting Crisis Reaching Boiling Point

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Squatting is when someone occupies a property without the owner's permission. Laws around squatting vary by location, with some places having stricter regulations to protect property owners. Squatting can lead to legal disputes between property owners and squatters, often requiring court intervention for resolution. In some cases, laws may offer protections to squatters, making it challenging for property owners to remove them.
  • In New York, laws make it challenging to evict squatters due to the requirement of a court order, leading to delays and difficulties for property owners. On the other hand, Florida has passed legislation like House Bill 621, which allows property owners to swiftly remove unauthorized occupants with the help of law enforcement. Florida's laws impose criminal charges for squatting-related offenses, emphasizing a stricter approach compared to New York's more complex legal procedures.
  • In Florida, the House Bill 621 empowers property owners to have unauthorized occupants immediately removed by the Sheriff's Office. The bill classifies causing property damage as a second-degree felony and fraudulently selling or leasing a property as a first-degree felony. This means that squatters in Florida can face severe criminal charges for their illegal actions. The Sheriff must serve notice and evict unauthorized occupants promptly, showing Florida's commitment to protecting property owners' rights. ...

Counterarguments

  • Squatting laws in places like New York may be designed to protect vulnerable populations from homelessness and provide due process before eviction.
  • The requirement for a court order before eviction ensures that the rights of all parties are considered and that evictions are lawful and justified.
  • Characterizing the situation as a "crisis" may not take into account the broader context of housing shortages and economic factors that contribute to squatting.
  • The laws that prevent homeowners from taking unilateral action against squatters are in place to prevent potential abuses and ensure that any action taken is legal and fair.
  • Social media platforms offering advice on squatting could be seen as a response to a lack of affordable housing and a means of sharing information on tenant rights.
  • Criticisms of state squatting laws may not fully acknowledge the balance that lawmakers are trying to strike between protecting property rights and preventing homelessness.
  • Florida's House Bill 621, while protecting property owners, may also raise concerns about the potential for abuse and the rights of individuals who may have a legitimate claim to occupancy or who ...

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World War III: China Edition

House GOP Holding Hearings on Hunter Biden Corruption

The House GOP is continuing with hearings surrounding Hunter Biden's business dealings, with new claims arising about the involvement of President Joe Biden.

Witnesses allege Joe Biden involved in pay-to-play

James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky and the oversight chair, has waived a longstanding rule to allow members to speak candidly about the president's character. Tony Babulinski, a former business associate of Hunter Biden, testified that Hunter was part of a pay-for-play scandal that involved Joe Biden. Babulinski accuses President Joe Biden of being involved with various corrupt activities, such as RICO and conspiracy, and FARA violations, although he did not specify a particular crime while being questioned.

Ben Shapiro highlights the testimony of Tony Bobulinski, who has done business with Hunter Biden and claims that Hunter kept "10% for the big guy," implying the involvement of President Joe Biden. Toby Bobulinski has also criticized Hunter Biden's defense attorney, accusing them of deception to protect Hunter and Joe Biden.

Democrats claim allegations are Russian disinformation

The narrative of the hearings is riddled with political accusations from both sides. While Republicans bring forth witnesses to support claims of corruption, Democrats counter with allegations of Russian disinformation.

Lev Parnas, a Ukrainian-American businessman and former associate of Rudy Giuliani, has been used by Democrats to argue that the allegations against the Bidens a ...

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House GOP Holding Hearings on Hunter Biden Corruption

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • RICO violations, short for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act violations, involve engaging in a pattern of criminal activity as part of an organized group. This law targets organized crime and allows for the prosecution of individuals involved in ongoing criminal enterprises. Violations can include activities like extortion, fraud, and other illegal schemes conducted by a structured group for financial gain. The RICO Act was enacted in 1970 to combat the influence of organized crime groups like the Mafia.
  • The Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) in the United States defines and regulates individuals or entities acting on behalf of foreign interests within the country. FARA aims to promote transparency by requiring those acting as foreign agents to disclose their activities and relationships. Violations of FARA involve failure to register as a foreign agent or failure to provide accurate disclosures about activities conducted on behalf of a foreign entity. The law was enacted in 1938 to address concerns about foreign influence and propaganda, particularly in times of international tension or conflict.
  • Lev Parnas is a Ukrainian-American businessman and former associate of Rudy Giuliani. He has been involved in the political scene, particularly during the impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump. Parnas has testified about his interactions and experiences related to the allegations against the Bidens, often being used by Democrats to counter claims of corruption. Despite his involvement in high-profile political events, Parnas has faced scrutiny due to his criminal record and the nature of his ...

Counterarguments

  • The hearings may be seen as a legitimate exercise of congressional oversight powers to investigate potential conflicts of interest and corruption.
  • Witnesses' allegations require substantiation through evidence, and testimonies should be scrutinized for accuracy and relevance.
  • The involvement of President Joe Biden in Hunter Biden's business dealings has not been proven, and allegations should not be conflated with guilt without due process.
  • Claims of "10% for the big guy" are serious but need to be backed by concrete evidence to be credible.
  • Criticism of Hunter Biden's defense attorney could be viewed as an attempt to discredit the defense without addressing the substance of the legal arguments.
  • The assertion that allegations are Russian disinformation could be challenged by providing evidence that contradicts the claim or demonstrates a lack of connection to Russian sources.
  • Lev Parnas's credibility may be questioned due to his criminal record, but this does ...

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