The Red Tory mission is to critically make sense of our world while having fun doing so. We’re committed to public education, sharing knowledge, and public poli...
20: Trump, Truth, and Tactics: Analyzing Media and Politics with Bill Fox
The latest podcast episode features Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg in conversation with Bill Fox, addressing the multifaceted challenges that contemporary political entities face in an evolving landscape. The episode opens with a profound examination of polling insights provided by David Shore, revealing a concerning trend: the Democratic Party's erosion of support among blue-collar constituents and a notable decline in backing from black and Hispanic voters, particularly among young males. Shore's analysis suggests that Gen Z may represent a generational shift towards conservatism, a stark contrast to the progressive inclinations of millennials, raising critical implications for future electoral strategies and party alignments.The conversation progresses to scrutinize the strategic media choices undertaken by political leaders, particularly the decision by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre to forgo traditional media engagements in favor of collaborating with social media influencers. This development signifies a pivotal transformation in the political communication landscape, echoing tactics previously employed by Donald Trump, and illustrates a shift away from conventional media reliance as a primary mechanism for narrative dissemination. Hirsh, Gregg, and Fox delve into the ramifications of this shift, contemplating how political narratives are reshaped in the absence of traditional media's influence and the potential consequences for democratic engagement and voter mobilization.In addition, the trio reflects on the evolving nature of journalism itself, emphasizing the necessity for media practitioners to adapt to the realities of a digital-first environment. Bill Fox articulates a call for journalism to transcend superficial reporting, advocating for an approach that prioritizes truth and context over sensationalism. This conversation touches on the essential role that journalists must play in fostering informed public discourse and maintaining accountability within democratic institutions. The episode serves not only as a critical analysis of current political and media dynamics but also as a clarion call for a renewed commitment to integrity and depth in both journalism and political engagement.Takeaways: The podcast discusses the evolving landscape of political communication, emphasizing the shift from traditional media to social media platforms. Bill Fox highlights the significance of understanding demographics, particularly how young voters are influencing political dynamics. The conversation reveals that legacy media's declining relevance is forcing political parties to adapt their strategies to engage directly with voters. The guests explore the implications of Pierre Poilievre's campaign decisions, particularly the omission of a press bus and reliance on influencers. Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg reflect on how media's focus on sensationalism undermines the integrity of political journalism. The discussion underscores the need for journalism to pivot towards a truth-focused model, moving beyond mere reporting to contextual analysis. Companies mentioned in this episode: Blue Rose Research Democrats Liberals Conservative Pierre Poilievre John F. Kennedy Joe Rogan Paul brothers Donald Trump Twitter Elon Musk National Democratic Institute Yemen
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19: Trump's Trolling: How American Politics Shapes Canadian Elections
In a detailed examination of the Canadian political landscape as the federal election looms, Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg engage in a critical dialogue that interweaves historical context with contemporary analysis. The conversation begins with an exploration of the Liberal Party's unexpected polling gains, which serve as a stark contrast to their previous standing. Hirsh and Gregg articulate the inefficiencies of the Conservative vote, which is burdened by its geographical distribution, thus rendering the Liberal's slight lead in popular support potentially transformative in terms of seat distribution in Parliament. The discussion also touches on the character and competence dichotomy in political leadership, highlighting the challenges that Carney may face in an environment that increasingly values relatability and emotional connection over mere technical proficiency. The speakers incisively draw parallels to past political figures, reflecting on how personal charisma and public perception can significantly influence electoral outcomes. In this way, the episode not only provides a snapshot of the current political landscape but also invites listeners to consider the broader implications of these dynamics on future governance in Canada.Takeaways: This episode examines the current political landscape as Canada approaches a federal election, drawing parallels with the ongoing electoral chaos in the United States. The discussion highlights the significant shift in public opinion towards the Liberal Party and its implications for the upcoming election results. The speakers emphasize the importance of character versus competence in political leadership, particularly regarding Mark Carney's candidacy. Campaigns are shown to matter greatly as voter identification with political parties declines, leading to increased volatility in electoral outcomes. The impact of Donald Trump's presence in the news cycle is assessed, noting how it complicates the opposition's efforts to gain traction. The podcast reflects on the contrasting fortunes of political candidates and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing political environment.
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18: Competence vs. Character
The exchange between Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg captures the zeitgeist of a politically fatigued society grappling with the weight of current global events. Hirsh's candid admission of exhaustion sets the tone for a conversation rife with introspection and analysis. The duo articulates the emotional toll of contemporary issues, from the war in Ukraine to the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, emphasizing the paralyzing anxiety that has infiltrated the lives of many North Americans. Gregg underscores the staggering reality that a significant portion of the population is struggling with sleep disturbances, highlighting a broader malaise that speaks to the deep-seated concerns about the future. As they navigate through these pressing issues, the discussion pivots towards Canadian politics, particularly the inauguration of Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney's ascent to leadership is framed as a critical juncture, marked by a strategic departure from traditional alliances and a proactive approach to forging new international partnerships. Hirsh and Gregg posit that Carney's leadership style, defined by competence and a clear vision, could serve as a model for effective governance in an increasingly complex world. The conversation ultimately suggests that amidst the fatigue and uncertainty, there lies the potential for renewal and effective leadership that could guide society through these tumultuous times.Takeaways: The rapid pace of news and events is contributing to a collective sense of fatigue among the public. Political leaders, such as Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney, are prioritizing building new alliances beyond traditional partners. The complexities of global geopolitics are becoming increasingly evident, requiring innovative strategies to address them effectively. There is a notable shift in the perception of Donald Trump, as some begin to see a calculated economic strategy rather than outright paranoia. The evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party reveal significant divisions and a struggle for coherent leadership. The effectiveness of political discourse is impeded by the lack of unity and clear messaging among Democratic leaders.
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17: Democrats Debate While Authoritarianism Rises
The discourse between Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg delves deeply into the contemporary political landscape of the United States, emphasizing the troubling resurgence of authoritarianism. The discussion begins by reflecting upon Francis Fukuyama's notion of the 'end of history' following the fall of the Berlin Wall, which has now transformed into a context of renewed ideological strife. This conversation illustrates how the political realm is increasingly characterized by a clash of ideologies, with both Hirsh and Gregg expressing concern over the fragmentation within the Democratic Party. They elucidate the internal conflicts evident in the divergent strategies adopted by various factions, such as moderates and progressives, with figures like Gavin Newsom and Bernie Sanders emerging as focal points in the debate over the party's future direction. The episode underscores the ramifications of these internal divisions as they potentially pave the way for a more authoritarian regime, driven by polarizing tactics and rhetoric that prioritize attention over substantive policy discussions.As the dialogue unfolds, Hirsh and Gregg analyze the implications of the Democratic Party’s current trajectory. They articulate a sense of urgency regarding the need for a cohesive strategy that transcends mere attention-seeking behavior. The discussion touches upon the broader societal implications of this political fragmentation, particularly as it relates to the electorate's growing disillusionment with traditional political structures. The speakers argue that the Democrats risk alienating a significant portion of their base if they fail to effectively communicate their values and engage with the electorate in a meaningful way. The episode concludes with a contemplation of the potential long-term consequences of this authoritarian trend, raising critical questions about the viability of democratic institutions and the future of political engagement in America.In a poignant examination of the current political milieu, Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg articulate their apprehensions regarding the rise of authoritarianism in the United States. They commence their analysis by referencing Fukuyama's assertion of a conclusive ideological consensus post-Cold War, which is now being dismantled in light of contemporary political developments. The discussion navigates through the complexities of party dynamics, particularly within the Democratic Party, which is grappling with a cacophony of voices advocating for divergent strategies. Hirsh notes the observable rift between moderate and progressive factions, exemplified by the contrasting approaches of leaders such as Newsom and Sanders, thereby raising concerns about the party's ability to present a united front against authoritarian tendencies.The speakers further explore the ramifications of this internal discord, scrutinizing how it may inadvertently facilitate the rise of authoritarian figures who capitalize on political polarization. They emphasize the necessity for the Democratic Party to reevaluate its strategies, urging a shift from attention-seeking antics to authentic engagement with constituents. The episode culminates in a dire warning about the potential erosion of democratic principles if the party cannot navigate its internal challenges effectively. Hirsh and Gregg's dialogue serves as a clarion call, urging listeners to remain vigilant in the face of rising authoritarianism and to advocate for a political discourse that prioritizes unity and democratic values.Takeaways: The notion of the 'end of history' has evolved, revealing a resurgence of competing ideologies in contemporary politics. The Democratic Party is experiencing significant internal divisions, complicating their strategy to unify ahead of upcoming elections. Recent political dynamics suggest a potential rise in authoritarianism as various factions vie for influence...
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16: The Power of Disinformation vs Authentic Dialogue
The episode featuring Jesse Hirsh, Allan Gregg, and Jim Hoggan presents a nuanced exploration of contemporary political dynamics and the pervasive influence of misinformation on public discourse. The dialogue begins with a recognition of a temporary reduction in the frenetic pace of news, allowing political figures some respite for reflection. This pause in the news cycle serves as a backdrop for analyzing the current political landscape, particularly in relation to trade policies and the shifting dynamics between Canada and the United States. The speakers articulate an awareness of the tumultuous environment created by recent tariff discussions, emphasizing the need for strategic communication as nations navigate complex international relationships.As the discussion unfolds, the speakers confront the troubling trend of declining trust in political institutions, citing disheartening statistics that reveal an alarming decrease in public confidence. The conversation highlights that only a mere 8% of the population holds a favorable view of politicians, underscoring a pervasive sentiment of disillusionment. This decline in trust is contextualized within a broader narrative of growing cynicism, where the normalization of deceit has come to characterize political engagement. The trio articulates a palpable concern regarding the implications of this shift, suggesting that the erosion of ethical boundaries has irrevocably altered the public's expectations of political leaders.Jim Hoggan's insights into the importance of reciprocity in communication further enrich this discourse. He posits that fostering respect and understanding is paramount in bridging divides within a polarized society. The episode culminates in a profound reflection on the necessity for authenticity in political discourse, challenging listeners to consider their roles in shaping a more constructive environment. The conversation serves as a timely reminder of the collective responsibility to promote integrity and genuine engagement in public life, urging an urgent reevaluation of how political communication is conducted in an era defined by divisive rhetoric and misinformation.Takeaways: The current political climate exhibits a notable shift towards extreme polarization, with the left and right increasingly distanced from mutual understanding. Jim Hoggan highlights the importance of reciprocity in public discourse, emphasizing that genuine listening can reduce polarization and foster meaningful dialogue. Alan Gregg articulates a decline in public trust in politicians, with a stark decrease in favorable impressions of political figures over the past decades. The hosts discuss the implications of Doug Ford's recent policy decisions, suggesting that political leaders must adapt to the evolving dynamics of international relations. The conversation reflects on the necessity for politicians to engage in authentic communication, moving away from divisive rhetoric to foster a more inclusive political environment. The episode concludes with a contemplation on the role of public opinion and the media in shaping the narrative around political discourse, particularly in relation to recent events in Canada.
The Red Tory mission is to critically make sense of our world while having fun doing so. We’re committed to public education, sharing knowledge, and public policy debates. As researchers our current view is that nothing is sacred when so much is uncertain.
For most people, the world seems to be an increasingly chaotic and confusing place. That’s because it is.
In “Red-Tory,” Jesse Hirsh and Allan Gregg—two inquisitive friends from different generations—team up to untangle the chaos. With decades of experience analyzing, navigating, and explaining the intersection of technological and socio-political change, they bring sharp insights and a bit of humor to the news-driven topics shaping our lives.
The conversations are rooted in and riff off the two newsletters written by each co-host. Jesse’s “Future of Authority” identifies undercurrents behind current news that reflect his deep interest in and understanding of new theories and developments in technology and intelligence – ideas that are not widely known or covered by traditional media. Allan’s “Vanity and Learning” reflects on inflection points in politics and history over the last 70 years and how these trends resonate and continue to shape events to this day.
The effect is one of a techno-cultural anthropologist bringing his findings to an older guy, with an impressive resume and a continued love of learning, and together they explore the antecedents and evolution of popular (but often below-the-headline) trends.
Together, they connect the dots in an open-ended conversation or a two-on-one interview with guests who provide unique perspectives on the issues at hand.
With each episode, “Red-Tory” offers clarity, curiosity, and connection in a world where those qualities are increasingly rare. Tune in as Jesse and Allan make sense of the chaos—and have fun along the way.
Canada - english