Podcasts > The Ben Shapiro Show > OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

By Ben Shapiro

In this episode of The Ben Shapiro Show, Shapiro reflects on the divisive O.J. Simpson murder trial and the racial tensions surrounding the acquittal verdict. He examines the prosecution's evidence against Simpson and the defense's tactics to exploit racial divides in the jury. The episode also delves into economic challenges under the Biden administration, including persistent inflation outpacing wage growth, and the public's disapproval of Biden's economic policies.

Additionally, Shapiro discusses the Republican divide over proposed changes to FISA surveillance laws, with some pushing for stricter restrictions while others caution against compromising national security. The episode offers an unvarnished exploration of these contentious issues through Shapiro's conservative lens.

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

1-Page Summary

O.J. Simpson Murder Case and Acquittal

Overwhelming Evidence

According to Ben Shapiro, the evidence of Simpson's guilt was overwhelming. There was a history of alleged abuse, his blood and hair at the crime scene, bloody socks and a bloody glove containing DNA from both victims. Shapiro argues the extensive evidence points to Simpson's involvement in the gruesome murders.

Racial Exploitation by Defense

Shapiro contends Simpson's "dream team" defense exploited racial tensions in Los Angeles after the Rodney King verdict. Their approach was designed to influence the jury, using tactics like Johnnie Cochran's "If it doesn't fit, you must acquit" regarding the bloody glove.

Acquittal as Miscarriage of Justice

For Shapiro, the acquittal represents a profound miscarriage of justice, with the jury choosing to acquit Simpson despite the overwhelming evidence. He characterizes it as an unrighteous instance of jury nullification influenced by racial politics.

Racial Division Over Verdict

Contrasting Views on Guilt

Shapiro recalls a racial split in reactions to the verdict, with non-white youths celebratory while white youths were shocked. Only 22% of Black Americans saw Simpson as guilty in 1994, compared to 63% of white Americans.

Many Blacks Saw Simpson as Victim of Racism

The transcript reveals that many in the Black community perceived Simpson as a victim of racial targeting by the police, an idea Shapiro suggests the political left propagated during the trial.

Widening Racial Divides

In Shapiro's view, the trial and acquittal dramatically exacerbated racial tensions in America by transforming the case into a racial issue. The persistent racial divide in perceptions of guilt and the justice system is concerning to him.

Biden's Economic Struggles

Persistent Inflation Outpacing Wages

Under Biden, Shapiro emphasizes inflation has become a serious issue. Housing costs have skyrocketed while inflation outpaces wage growth, causing real wages to stagnate around 1%.

Public Economic Disapproval

This economic pain has led to public disapproval of Biden's economic management. Opinion polls suggest the upcoming election will be a referendum on Biden's presidency, especially regarding the economy.

Blaming Global Factors Over Policies

Shapiro argues Biden wrongly blames global factors instead of his policies for economic woes. Data indicates more people favor Trump's economic performance over Biden's approach.

FISA Republican Divisions

Hardliners Want More Restrictions

Some Republicans want heightened restrictions on monitoring Americans under FISA, requiring warrants for searching American data. Rep. Greene has threatened pushback against the bill without such changes.

Moderates Warn Losing Powers Risks Security

Other moderates like Rep. Johnson warn letting FISA expire could jeopardize security and leave Republicans blamed if an attack occurs without FISA's capabilities.

Trump, Greene Opposition Hampers Compromise

Former President Trump and Rep. Greene have openly attacked the bill, with Trump calling for termination of FISA. Their opposition undermines efforts to reach a compromise according to Shapiro.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator known for his strong opinions on various issues. In the text, Shapiro's perspective is highlighted regarding the O.J. Simpson murder case, racial tensions surrounding the trial, economic struggles under President Biden, and divisions within the Republican Party over FISA surveillance laws. Shapiro's views often align with conservative ideologies and he is known for his critical analysis of current events and policies.
  • O.J. Simpson, a former NFL player, was accused of the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in 1994. The trial became highly publicized due to Simpson's fame and the racial tensions it exposed. Simpson was acquitted in a controversial verdict that divided public opinion along racial lines and raised questions about the justice system.
  • The Rodney King verdict was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, where four LAPD officers were acquitted of using excessive force against King, a Black motorist. The acquittal sparked widespread outrage and protests due to the video evidence showing the officers beating King. This event heightened racial tensions in Los Angeles and beyond, setting the stage for the racial dynamics that played a role in O.J. Simpson's murder trial and acquittal. The defense team in Simpson's trial, led by Johnnie Cochran, strategically used the lingering anger and distrust towards the justice system following the Rodney King verdict to their advantage, framing Simpson as a victim of racial bias in the criminal justice system.
  • Under President Biden, there have been concerns about rising inflation rates outpacing wage growth, leading to stagnant real wages. Housing costs have notably increased during this time. Public dissatisfaction with Biden's economic management has been growing, with many viewing the upcoming election as a judgment on his handling of the economy. Biden has faced criticism for attributing economic challenges to global factors rather than his own policies.
  • The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is a U.S. law that governs the surveillance of foreign powers and agents within the United States for national security purposes. It establishes procedures for the physical and electronic surveillance and collection of foreign intelligence information. The text mentions divisions within the Republican party regarding FISA, with some members advocating for more restrictions on surveillance to protect civil liberties, while others argue that limiting FISA's powers could compromise national security. Former President Trump and Rep. Greene are noted for their opposition to the bill, which complicates efforts to find a compromise on FISA-related issues.

Counterarguments

  • The evidence in the O.J. Simpson case, while substantial, was subject to scrutiny regarding the handling and collection, leading some to argue that reasonable doubt was a justifiable basis for acquittal.
  • The defense's strategy in the Simpson trial can be seen as a legitimate use of the adversarial system, where the defense's job is to challenge the prosecution's case and seek any reasonable doubt.
  • The jury's decision in the Simpson case could be defended as an exercise of their legal right to decide based on the evidence and arguments presented to them in court, free from external pressures.
  • The differing reactions to the Simpson verdict can be understood in the context of differing lived experiences and perspectives on the criminal justice system among different racial groups.
  • The perception of Simpson as a victim of racial targeting reflects broader concerns about systemic racism in law enforcement, which some argue should not be dismissed as mere political rhetoric.
  • The Simpson trial's impact on racial tensions might also be seen as a reflection of pre-existing issues in American society rather than the cause of new divisions.
  • Economic challenges under Biden's administration, such as inflation, can be argued to have complex causes, including unprecedented global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions, not solely domestic policies.
  • Public disapproval of economic management can be influenced by a variety of factors, including media portrayal and public perception, which may not always align with economic data or policy effectiveness.
  • The debate over FISA and surveillance powers reflects a legitimate tension between national security interests and civil liberties, with valid arguments on both sides regarding the balance between the two.
  • Opposition to the FISA bill by figures like Trump and Greene can be seen as part of the democratic process, where elected officials represent the views of their constituents and advocate for policy changes accordingly.

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

O.J. Simpson Murder Case History and Controversial Acquittal

The O.J. Simpson murder case remains one of the most dissected and controversial legal proceedings in American history, marked by overwhelming evidence and a contentious verdict that some believe represents a miscarriage of justice.

The evidence against Simpson was overwhelming

Ben Shapiro weighs in on the evidence presented during the trial, labeling it as "overwhelming." The evidence against O.J. Simpson included a history of alleged abuse, with Nicole Brown Simpson previously calling the police expressing fear of being killed by him. At the crime scene, blood drops containing Simpson's genetic markers were found, along with Simpson's bloody shoe prints. Simpson had a cut on his hand when interviewed by the police, presumed to be the source of the blood found at the scene. A bloody glove, matching one found on Simpson's property and containing genetic markers from Simpson, Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman, was discovered at the murder site. Hairs similar to Simpson's were found in a knit cap at the crime scene and on Ronald Goldman's shirt, and bloody shoe prints matched the size 12 Bruno Magli shoes that Simpson owned. Bloodied socks in Simpson's bedroom also contained genetic markers tied to both him and Nicole Brown Simpson.

Shapiro recounts the murder of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, suggesting Simpson went over to Nicole's house to murder her. This assertion is reinforced by the discovery of a glove stained with O.J.'s blood. Moreover, Simpson's involvement in a highly publicized police chase, which interrupted the 1994 NBA finals, added to the sensational nature of the case. Shapiro describes the array of evidence presented against Simpson, including the bloody evidence and alleged history of abuse, despite the murder weapon, a knife, never being found.

The "dream team" defense exploited racial tensions for acquittal

Ben Shapiro contends that Simpson's legal defense, often referred to as the "dream team," exploited racial narratives to achieve O.J. Simpson's acquittal. The racial tensions, especially significant in Los Angeles post the Rodney King verdict, were a palpable part of the trial's ba ...

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O.J. Simpson Murder Case History and Controversial Acquittal

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ben Shapiro is a conservative political commentator known for his strong opinions and analysis on various issues. In the context of the O.J. Simpson case, Shapiro has criticized the legal proceedings and the acquittal of Simpson, highlighting what he sees as flaws in the defense's tactics and the jury's decision. Shapiro's views on the case reflect his broader perspectives on justice, race relations, and the legal system in the United States. His commentary often sparks debate and controversy due to his outspoken and sometimes polarizing viewpoints.
  • The Rodney King verdict in 1992 involved the acquittal of four white police officers in the beating of Rodney King, a black man, captured on video. The acquittal led to widespread outrage and protests in Los Angeles due to perceived racial injustice. The event exacerbated existing racial tensions in the city, culminating in the 1992 Los Angeles riots, marked by violence, looting, and civil unrest. These tensions lingered in the city's social fabric and were significant during O.J. Simpson's murder trial in 1995.
  • Jury nullifi ...

Counterarguments

  • The forensic evidence, while substantial, was subject to scrutiny regarding the handling and chain of custody, which the defense argued could have led to contamination or tampering.
  • The defense argued that the bloody glove did not fit Simpson's hand, suggesting that it may not have been his or that it had been tampered with.
  • The jury may have had reasonable doubt due to the way the evidence was presented, the potential for evidence tampering, and the credibility of the Los Angeles Police Department, which was under significant scrutiny at the time.
  • The role of racial dynamics in the trial can be seen as a reflection of systemic issues within the criminal justice system rather than a mere strategy by the defense team.
  • The "dream team" defense's use of the phrase "If it doesn't fit, you must acquit" can be interpreted as a legitimate defense strategy highlighting reasonable doubt.
  • The jury's decision to acquit may hav ...

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

Reasons for and Reactions to Simpson's Acquittal along Racial Lines

The O.J. Simpson trial revealed a stark division between White and Black Americans' perceptions of his guilt and the justice system.

White and Black Americans had vastly different views on Simpson's guilt

Shapiro reflects on the moment the O.J. Simpson verdict was announced, noting a clear racial divide in reactions. He recalls, "every kid who was not white was celebratory about the verdict. And every kid who was white was sort of shocked by the verdict." This split in views echoed throughout the country, with 63% of white Americans thinking Simpson was guilty in 1994 compared to only 22% of Black Americans. By 1997, this belief increased among white Americans to 82% while only slightly higher among Black Americans to 31%. The gap persisted but narrowed over time; by 2015, 57% of Black Americans said Simpson was guilty.

Many Black Americans saw Simpson as a victim of racism

The podcast transcript reveals that many in the Black community saw Simpson as a cause célèbre and a victim of racial targeting by the police, which Shapiro suggests the political left painted during the trial.

A juror in the O.J. Simpson case suggested racial motivations could have influenced the jury's decision, partially due to racially controversial events beforehand. Shapiro comments that after the murder of two white people, Simpson's case was suddenly perceived as a racial cause, encapsulating the narrative of Black victimhood in America.

The acquittal widened racial divides in the U.S.

In Shapiro's analysis, the Simpson trial and the subsequent acquittal exacerbated racial tensions in the United Sta ...

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Reasons for and Reactions to Simpson's Acquittal along Racial Lines

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A "cause célèbre" is a controversial issue or incident that sparks widespread public debate and attention. The term can be used to describe legal cases that gain significant public interest and scrutiny. It originated from a French phrase meaning "famous case" and is commonly used in English to highlight noteworthy or contentious events. The term can be applied to cases that have historical significance or are surrounded by scandal or conspiracy theories.
  • The O.J. Simpson trial had lasting implications for current racial politics by highlighting and exacerbating existing racial tensions in the United States. The case became a focal point for discussions on race, justice, and perceptions of guilt, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on racial inequalit ...

Counterarguments

  • The perception of Simpson's guilt or innocence may be more nuanced than a simple racial divide, with individuals of all races holding a variety of opinions based on the evidence presented, their trust in the legal system, and personal experiences with law enforcement.
  • While many Black Americans may have seen Simpson as a victim of racism, others might have believed in his guilt or innocence based on the legal proceedings and evidence, rather than racial solidarity.
  • The suggestion that the acquittal widened racial divides could be countered by the view that the divides were already present and the trial merely brought them to the forefront of public consciousness.
  • The differential in perceptions of guilt and justice might not solely be attributed to race; factors such as m ...

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

Biden's Struggles With the Economy, Inflation, and Public Perception

As President Joe Biden navigates the challenges of national economic management, Shapiro, Teixeira, and Long assess his administration's performance amid rising inflation and public scrutiny.

Inflation persists and outpaces wage growth

Shapiro stresses that under Biden’s presidency, inflation has become a persistent issue affecting Americans’ cost of living. Mortgage rates have escalated to nearly 7%, starkly higher than the 3-4% rates observed in the past. This surge, noted with the 6.88% average on the standard 30-year fixed mortgage, has implications for the housing market’s affordability.

Roy Teixeira articulates that regardless of declines from inflationary peaks, voters are still feeling economic discomfort, with the impacts felt sharply by working-class voters. Inflation peaked at 9% in June 2022, an apex not observed since 1981, thereby diminishing living standards across the board.

Adding to this, Heather Long's data suggest that the inflation rate has eclipsed growth in average hourly earnings. With spikes in costs—rent and meat increasing by 20%, restaurant and grocery bills by around 21%, electricity by 28%, gas by 35%, and eggs by 37%, compared to a modest 15% rise in hourly wages—the average American is confronted with a tangible economic squeeze. As inflation persists, real wages see only a near 1% increase through November.

Americans feel economic pain and disapprove of Biden's management

Resultantly, Biden faces setbacks in opinion polls, with the upcoming election viewed as a referendum on his presidential stewardship, particularly regarding the economic sphere. As inflation continues unabated, it casts a shadow on the public’s perception of the economy’s trajectory.

The dateline for a much-hoped-for "soft landing,” posited by the Federal Reserve through interest rate decreases, remains uncertain amid enduring inflation, cas ...

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Biden's Struggles With the Economy, Inflation, and Public Perception

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A "soft landing" in economics refers to a scenario where the economy transitions smoothly from a period of rapid growth to a more sustainable pace without experiencing a recession or significant downturn. It involves policymakers implementing measures to prevent overheating and inflation while maintaining stable economic growth. The goal is to achieve a controlled slowdown to avoid abrupt disruptions or crises in the economy. It is a term often used by central banks and policymakers to describe their efforts to manage economic cycles effectively.
  • The comparison of presidential records on economic issues involves evaluating how different presidents have managed the economy during their time in office. This assessment typically considers factors like economic growth, unemployment rates, inflation levels, and the impact of policies implemented by each administration. By comparing these records, analysts and voters can gauge the effectiveness of economic strategies and decisions made by past and current presidents.
  • The Marquette Law School Poll is a widely respected public opinion poll in Wisconsin conducted by the Marquette University Law School. It regularly surveys residents on various political and social issues, including approval ratings of elected officials, economic sentiment, and other relevant topics. The poll is known for its rigorous methodology and is often cited by media outl ...

Counterarguments

  • Inflation is a global issue, not unique to the Biden administration, and has been exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, which are beyond the control of any single government.
  • The Federal Reserve, not the Biden administration, primarily manages monetary policy, which includes addressing inflation through interest rate adjustments.
  • The surge in mortgage rates reflects the Federal Reserve's efforts to combat inflation, which can be seen as a necessary step to stabilize the economy in the long term.
  • The comparison of presidential economic records may not account for the different contexts and challenges each administration faced, such as the pandemic's impact during Biden's term.
  • The strong labor market under Biden's administration, with low unemployment rates, could be seen as an indicator of economic resilience and recovery.
  • The Biden administration has implemented policies aimed at long-term economic growth and stability, such as investments in infrastructure and clean energy, which may not yield immediate results but could benefit the economy in the future.
  • Public perception of the economy can be influenced by a variety of factors, including media coverage and political polarization, and may not always reflect the underlying economic data.
  • Blaming policy decisi ...

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OJ Simpson Killed By Cancer

Republican Infighting Over the FISA Reauthorization Bill

Negotiations for the reauthorization of the FISA surveillance bill face significant hurdles as internal disagreements within the Republican caucus prevent the garnering of sufficient votes to push the bill forward.

Renewing surveillance authority has divided Republicans

Hardliners want more restrictions on monitoring Americans

A faction within the Republican caucus is advocating for heightened restrictions on the surveillance of Americans. In response to privacy concerns and to avoid abuse allegations similar to those of the Carter Page case, some Republicans suggest that a warrant should be required for every search of American data within the FISA surveillance network. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has been especially vocal, threatening to introduce a motion to vacate if the bill proceeds without incorporating the changes demanded by herself and allies.

Moderates warn losing powers would risk security

In contrast, moderates within the party are raising alarms about the potential consequences of letting surveillance powers lapse. Mike Johnson, identified by Shapiro as the Speaker of the House, voices support for a balanced proposal, arguing that allowing FISA to expire could jeopardize national security. Johnson warns that should a terror attack hap ...

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Republican Infighting Over the FISA Reauthorization Bill

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is a U.S. law governing the surveillance and collection of foreign intelligence on American soil. It requires authorization for monitoring activities related to foreign powers and agents suspected of espionage or terrorism. FISA established the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) to review surveillance warrant requests. The law has evolved over time to cover various intelligence-gathering methods beyond electronic surveillance.
  • Carter Page was a former foreign-policy adviser to Donald Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign. He became a central figure in investigations regarding alleged ties between Trump associates and Russian officials during the election. Concerns were raised about the FBI's conduct in obtaining FISA warrants to surveil Page, with findings of faults in the process. The controversies surrounding the surveillance of Carter Page have been a focal point in discussions about government surveillance practices and oversight.
  • A motion to vacate is a procedural move in the U.S. House of Representatives that allows a member to bring up a resolution to remove the Speaker of the House from their position. It is a rare and serious action that can be initiated by a member to challenge the leadership of the Speake ...

Counterarguments

  • While heightened restrictions on surveillance could protect privacy, they may also limit the government's ability to quickly respond to national security threats.
  • A motion to vacate could disrupt legislative processes, but it may also be seen as a necessary action to ensure that critical privacy concerns are addressed.
  • The argument that lapsing surveillance powers could jeopardize national security assumes that current powers are both effective and necessary; however, there may be ways to protect national security while also reforming surveillance practices.
  • A balanced proposal is subjective, and what is considered balanced by some may still be seen as overreaching or insufficient by others.
  • The claim that FISA was used illegally against Trump and his campaign is a serious allegat ...

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