Mamdani Gets Unexpected Ally

The podcast criticizes the conservative movement for elevating non-conservative 'pod bros' like Andrew Schultz to thought leader status, especially after Schultz platformed socialist Zoran Mamdani, despite Mamdani's radical views and the potential societal damage of far-left policies.

• Prioritize avoiding catastrophic policy damage over electoral win probability when evaluating candidates.

• Do not mistake 'anti-left' sentiment for genuine conservative ideological commitment or leadership.

• Uncritically platforming radical figures can inadvertently legitimize harmful political views.

Elevating new converts or 'pod bros' to conservative thought leaders is deemed a mistake, particularly when these figures, like Andrew Schultz, do not align with conservative principles and may even platform radical socialists. The speaker argues that the long-term damage from socialist policies, even with a lower probability of winning power, is astronomically higher than from moderate politicians. Distinguishing between those genuinely committed to conservatism and those merely reacting against the left is crucial for the movement's leadership and future direction.

Risk of Socialist Leadership

• 00:00:05 Prioritizing a less damaging outcome, even if it carries a slightly higher risk of losing, is preferable to the catastrophic potential of a socialist leader. While a socialist candidate like Bernie Sanders or AOC might have a lower chance of winning, the societal damage from their policies would be astronomically higher compared to more moderate figures like Joe Biden or Gavin Newsom. This risk assessment underscores the danger of the Democratic Party falling to the 'wild left Democratic socialists', even if their immediate electoral prospects seem diminished.

Misplacing Conservative Thought Leaders

• 00:01:55 A significant error in politics involves treating new converts or 'Manosphere pod bros' to the conservative cause as legitimate thought leaders, despite their lack of deep ideological commitment. These individuals often react to left-wing excesses without embracing conservative principles, leading to 'ping-ponging' between political positions rather than providing stable leadership. Attributing genuine conservative thought leadership to those who are merely anti-left is misguided and detrimental to the movement's long-term coherence and direction.

Andrew Schultz and Zoran Mamdani

• 00:04:30 Comedian Andrew Schultz, despite being a talented performer, is criticized for platforming Zoran Mamdani, an 'overt socialist with jihadist leanings,' on his podcast. Schultz, who does not identify as a conservative thought leader, glossed over Mamdani’s radical views, including his support for 'Globalize the Intifada' and refusal to condemn Hamas, along with past associations with a Hamas front group. This episode highlights the dangers of conservatives elevating popular figures who do not share their core principles, as it can inadvertently amplify radical voices.

Economic Consequences of Policy

• 00:06:48 The notion that New Yorkers, particularly mobile high-income earners, would not flee a 'two percent' tax increase is challenged, citing historical precedent and personal experience. While a single small increase might not be the sole cause, the belief in a steepening trajectory of income tax increases often prompts relocation, as demonstrated by companies and individuals moving to zero-state income tax states. Assuming mobile classes will not respond to increased taxation ignores economic realities and the cumulative impact of such policies.