Overview of I Warned You (Ep. 2636)
Dan Bongino reflects on a poor election result for Republicans, urging listeners to regroup and focus on voter turnout. He argues that Democrats are already divided over their priorities and the failed effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He also honors veterans, criticizes media framing on Iran, and calls on Republicans to use their remaining time in Congress to pass legislation and confirm judges.
Election Results and Voter Turnout
Bongino says Republicans should acknowledge the loss, learn from it, and get back to work. He argues that elections often turn on turnout, not complicated analysis, and repeats his “10, 10, and 10” appeal: bring 10 people to vote, email 10 people, and call 10 people.
He points to a North Carolina state Senate race decided by 228 votes, which he says determined control of the chamber, as evidence that individual votes can matter. He urges Republicans to begin registering and mobilizing voters well before the next election, particularly for midterms.
Democratic Infighting and Policy Priorities
Bongino interprets Democrats’ disputes over the failed Hegseth impeachment effort as an early sign of internal division. He highlights criticism among Democrats about the vote, including reports that 11 members did not attend, and says the party is already arguing over whether its first priority should be leadership or a more ambitious policy agenda.
He also argues that some voters who supported Democrats over affordability may be surprised by the policies their elected officials pursue. Citing bills he says were prefiled in Texas, he criticizes proposals involving firearms, taxes, Medicaid, energy, immigration enforcement, and school choice. These examples support his broader warning that voters should examine candidates’ records and agendas rather than rely on campaign messaging.
Media Framing and Foreign Policy
Bongino uses Marco Rubio’s response to a question about a “stalemate” with Iran to illustrate his view that journalists sometimes embed assumptions in their questions. He argues that viewers should examine the premise before accepting a media narrative.
He also criticizes incoming New Jersey congressman Adam Hamawy’s comments about Iran, saying Hamawy failed to clearly identify Iran as an adversary despite its history of attacks on Americans. Bongino further plays Rep. Jason Crow describing the Hegseth impeachment as a way to press for a change in leadership, which Bongino says is not a constitutional basis for impeachment.
The Republican Agenda for the Next 60 Days
Bongino urges Republicans to use their remaining time with congressional majorities to confirm judicial nominees and advance permitting reform. He cites Senator Rick Scott’s call for senators to work seven days a week to finish judicial confirmations before Democrats take control in January.
He also tells listeners not to mistake discussion of immigration policy for a change in administration policy. He cites Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin’s assurance that amnesty is not on the table and says President Trump’s record should be judged by its results.
Veterans Day and National Security
Bongino dedicates part of the episode to thanking veterans and service members, recalling his time at Bagram Air Base and emphasizing the sacrifices made by those who serve. He also plays President Trump’s Veterans Day remarks honoring American service members.
Later, Bongino criticizes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s statement that security risks in Canada’s partnership with China are much lower than those associated with the United States. He calls the comparison troubling given Canada’s reliance on U.S. security.
Key Takeaways
- Bongino urges Republicans to accept the election result and start rebuilding turnout now.
- He sees the failed impeachment effort as a source of Democratic infighting and a distraction from affordability.
- He encourages listeners to question the framing of political questions and examine candidates’ actual agendas.
- He calls on Republicans to use their remaining time in Congress to confirm judges and advance legislation.
- He closes by honoring veterans and expressing concern about the state of international security relationships.