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The United States is deeply divided, but traditional explanations like race, class, religion, or culture don’t fully explain the near 50–50 political split. The core fracture may be better understood as belonging versus threat. One side sees social change as progress, expanding inclusion and strengthening democracy, while the other views it as a danger to family, culture, safety, and survival. This framework applies across issues like immigration, race, abortion, gender, religion, economics, and guns.
After the September 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk, some quickly claimed the event was staged or evidence fabricated, with influencers spreading these false narratives. This pattern, seen in past events from political attacks to Sandy Hook, fosters skepticism of facts and empowers strongmen who demand blind loyalty. Psychological needs and tribal loyalties make conspiratorial explanations appealing, while social media rewards outrage over accuracy.
Vice President JD Vance sparked outrage in Michigan, by joking about the potential killing of innocent fishermen during U.S. military operations. Vance framed the absence of drug boats as a success, quipping that even fishermen might fear being targeted.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene attacked her own party, telling supporters not to expect Republicans to solve national problems and advocating a “peaceful national divorce.” She framed Charlie Kirk’s assassination as a spiritual revival and urged followers to trust God and family over government.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Donald Trump over a lie-riddled Truth Social post about low-income housing, telling him to “take your dementia meds, Grandpa.” The comments highlighted Trump’s memory lapses and confusion, while his allies insist he is in peak condition.
Finally, Sarah Matthews, former Trump White House Deputy Press Secretary, joins us for a Substack Live to discuss threats to free speech, citing Kimmel’s suspension and media self-censorship under Trump. She critiques selective White House briefings on Epstein and Trump’s health, and notes that traditional conservatives view JD Vance as a tamer continuation of Trump.
On today’s bonus show:
Right-wing media figures react to Jimmy Kimmel getting suspended by ABC over comments about Trump’s reaction to Charlie Kirk’s assassination. And Kamala Harris revealed she considered Pete Buttigieg as a running mate in 2024 but decided against it, fearing a ticket with both a woman of color and a gay man would be too risky.
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When Pete is talking he just seems smart, aware to me. I wouldn’t know he is gay if no one mentioned it. Not that it matters.
My thinking is the only reason Kamala didn’t win is because the felon cheated. He does that. There’s not an honest bone in his body.
He’s done it before, he did it again, to stay out of prison.
Pete is highly qualified. He is brilliant, calm, respectful, a hard worker, open minded, logical, he has a beautiful family that stands beside him, and he would have made a great vice president. Hell, he would make a great president!!! Go Pete!!!