Real Clear

The Welfare Industrial Complex

SUBSCRIBEFormer Attorney General William Barr and the constitutional debates of the 14th. Meanwhile, we unpack the bloated Welfare Industrial Complex, unveiling the stark contrasts in governmental growth and fiscal strategies across states. We scrutinize how New York and California's expansionist approach to social support for marginalized groups stands in relief against Texas's budget surplus, despite similar social strains. WSJ Article by Allysia FinelyWith the financial weight of state decisions often falling on a select few, we ponder the possible shift towards economic conservatism if all citizens felt the sting of policies firsthand. The conversation navigates through the socioeconomic landscape of state management, challenging listeners to consider the disparities in tax burdens and how they could reshape the national dialogue on welfare and immigration. Join us for a rigorous exploration of these pressing issues, inviting a contemplation of fiscal responsibility and its implications for shared prosperity. Support the show

Reilly & Klein: The World at the end of 2023

International politics with Professor Wilford Reilly, a keen observer of the global stage, as we dissect the potential unraveling of Pax Americana and its impact on world safety. In a time of escalating conflict and shifting power dynamics, our latest Real Clear Podcast episode delves into the fragile nature of the world order. We're confronted with the possibility of a future devoid of cohesive leadership, as emerging giants China and India challenge the established norms, while we ponder the resilience of the laws of war in preventing chaos.Amidst the backdrop of a world in flux, we turn our gaze inward, assessing how America's preoccupation with domestic issues may be a double-edged sword. As European economies struggle and Japan faces stagnation, Professor Reilly and I scrutinize the American tendency to focus on the trivial. We question the endurance of corporate social responsibility in the face of pragmatic competitors and speculate on the necessity for national unity in the face of international upheavals.Wrapping up our thought-provoking session, we tackle the thorny issues surrounding public figures, sifting through the sensationalist mire that often obscures the truth. From rumors shadowing Obama's past to the legal mazes confronting Trump, we shine a light on the curious timing of allegations, the complexities of legal battles, and the wider repercussions these narratives hold for the American political tapestry. Professor Reilly lends his expert analysis, guiding us through the intricacies of these controversies with precision and insight. Join us for a conversation that promises to be as enlightening as it is critical. Support the show

The Battle for American Psychoanalysis

Controversy within the American Psychoanalytic Association concerning racism?  I challenge the report released by the American Psychoanalytic Association organization, highlighting its lack of empirical evidence and the potentially damaging repercussions of its suggestions. One such proposal is the appointment of a race czar at every institution - a concept I find worth questioning. I believe that addressing societal and political issues should hinge on tangible evidence, not personal convictions. This is the only way to promote real progress. Support the show

Immigration, Biden/Trump, GOP Debate Coverage

Careful analysis and frank discussions as we dissect the aftermath of the third Republican debate. We'll walk you through the performances of Desantis, Nikki Haley, Ramaswami,  evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, and discussing why Desantis emerged victorious. Curious about Donald Trump being the GOP's nominee for the 2024 election? We'll delve into this controversial decision and offer reflections on its wisdom – or lack thereof. We're also shedding light on a worrying video that puts the spotlight squarely on Biden's health - with an astounding 75% of voters questioning his fitness for presidency - and the implications for our political landscape.America's political scene and its far-reaching effects on global trade and the dollar's value. The recent United States credit rating downgrade by Moody's is a hot topic, and we're here to explore its impact.  And of course, we can't ignore one of the burning issues of our time - immigration.  Support the show

Trump Ahead in Swing States, World Conflict, Cultural Division

Are we hurtling towards a political abyss or is it just the echo chamber of social media magnifying our divisions? Is fear driving our political choices, and could we see the unprecedented spectacle of a presidential campaign conducted from home arrest or prison? We assess the striking poll results pointing towards Trump's lead over Biden in key swing states. Witness the unveiling of the wolf as we discuss the rise of radicalization, the escalating international conflicts, and the perceived lack of stable leadership at home.Then, we'll cast a discerning eye on the unsettling surge in anti-Semitism and hate crimes – a disturbing phenomenon that's casting a shadow over our society. We'll look to the future and consider the potential scenarios for the 2024 election, which may even include a Trump campaign conducted from home arrest or prison. Explore the question we've all been asking: are we watching the fracturing of an empire, or has social media simply made us more aware of our divisions? It's an episode of Real Clear Podcast that promises to challenge your perspectives and leave you pondering what lies ahead for our great nation. Support the show

Monthly Klein & Reilly: Israel, Leftism, Biden, Trump

 Join us as notable Political Science Professor Wilfred Reilly from Kentucky State University unravels the impact of various western ideologies within the context of the Israeli-Gaza conflict. We examine the American response to the conflict, notably the permeation of the Black Lives Matter meme and the influence of pro-Palestine rallies on college campuses. Professor Riley provides an insightful commentary on how these events mirror a profound indoctrination within American colleges and its potential policy implications.In a world where diplomacy plays a pivotal role, our discussion veers towards evaluating the roles of Joe Biden and John Kirby. We dissect their interactions with the press and consider the domino effect it may have on escalating global conflicts. Paying heed to Professor Reilly's expertise, we delve into the necessity for strategic global players, particularly in handling the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine.Lastly, we shift our lens to scrutinize the US presidential election, throwing focus on the advanced age of candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump. From pondering the implications of their health on their campaigns and potential leadership to questioning the very notion of democracy, this episode is a deep dive into the shifting international order. Listen in as we grapple with the potential of large-scale wars, genocide, and the consequential impact on our society. Support the show

Compassion and Contempt in Response to Chaos and Antisemitism

Have we ever stopped to really ponder about the rising global tensions, the escalating divisions and the disturbing increase in violence against Jews? In this climate of conflict, can understanding, compassion, and a touch of pity work towards coexistence and harmony? As your host, I grapple with these distressing realities, exploring everything from the violent outbursts between pro-Israel and pro-Hamas protesters to questions surrounding modern parenting in an age where acceptance of intifada on US soil is growing. We'll discuss the complexities of compassion, the challenges of a divided society, and the role each one of us has to play in shaping an understanding, unified community.Switching gears, I delve into the digital blackout that seems to have enveloped the youth of today. With their reality increasingly becoming a virtual one, how do we connect with our neighbors who are less engaged with the physical world? I uncover the essence of compassion, the impact of Marxist class struggle on societal perceptions, and the critical importance of making contact with reality for the growth of our community. I invite you to join me as we navigate this complex landscape, aiming to stimulate thought, inspire discussion and spark action towards unity and understanding. Support the show

No Country for Old Men, Biden, Violent Revolutionaries

We embark on a hard-hitting exploration of the present state of America's social movements and politics, with an intense focus on the growing undercurrent of what we believe to be violent revolutionary ideologies hidden beneath the veil of 'wokeness'. We'll wrestle with the terrifying reality of increasing support for horrifying atrocities against the Jewish state, particularly within the confines of American college campuses. As we dissect the controversial role of the Black Lives Matter movement, we'll urge for an end to donations and question its alignment with these violent ideologies. From masculinity to fatherhood, we'll raise the alarm over an alarming lack of maturity and accountability plaguing our younger generations. We'll journey through the halls of Ivy League colleges, unmasking a brewing concoction of indoctrination and entitlement. As we scrutinize President Biden's leadership, we'll examine troubling signs from his public appearances which hint at deeper concerns about his cognitive abilities. As we wrap up, we'll leave you with a spine-tingling question: Are we inching towards a violent revolution and is there anyone brave enough to step up and stop it? Support the show

Did Palestine Not Birth Hamas?

Every action carries a ripple effect, and today we're keen to uncover various links in the Palestinian-Israeli war.  How could Palestinians be separate from Hamas, the elected government? We'll examine this through the lens of history, exploring the lesser-known alliance between Nazi Germany and the Palestinian state and the disturbing anti-Semitic wave that's surfacing on the American left. A candid discussion awaits, as we ask  whether the intersectionalist ideology is blurring our understanding of the situation.  Support the show

Israeli-Palestinian: Evil or Context?

Can evil truly exist, or does it merely hinge on context and positionality? From the escalating conflict in the Middle East, we face a monstrous question that seeks to unravel the fabric of our moral compass. I lead you through the war-torn alleys of Gaza, and the streets of Israel, spotlighting the alarming  terrorism against the Israeli people, and challenging the deeply unsettling support for Hamas in parts of the western world. We question the academic tradition of contextualism, revealing its dangerous potential to equivocate the actions of the Israeli state and Hamas. We don't shy away from the harsh realities in the second half of this episode, which is laden with heavy stories of suffering from the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian war. We shed light on the devastating consequences of war on the Palestinian people, wrought by the atrocities of Hamas. Join us as we delve into the controversial removal of evidence of atrocities by Google, and contemplate the future of the Middle East. This episode will leave you teetering on the edge of a philosophical precipice, grappling with the question: is there such a thing as evil, or is there just context and positionality? It's a thought-provoking discussion, not for the faint of heart. Support the show