6 chapters across the catalog
A discussion on the advanced age of 2020 candidates leads to an anecdote about Nancy Reagan's use of astrology. It is claimed that Ronald Reagan's swearing-in as Governor of California was scheduled for shortly after midnight based on an astrologer's advice regarding "power times."
John Bolton's Influence and the 40-Year Presidential Cycle
Reports indicate National Security Advisor John Bolton is exerting strong influence over President Trump's Syrian policy, contrasting with the caution of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. Dvorak discusses an 80-year historical cycle where "great" presidents emerge every 40 years (1940, 1980, 2020). They also recall Nancy Reagan's use of astrology to manage Ronald Reagan's schedule.
Hillary Clinton, Nancy Reagan AIDS Comments Controversy
Hillary Clinton apologized after falsely praising Ronald and Nancy Reagan for starting a "national conversation" on HIV/AIDS in the 1980s. Critics noted that President Reagan did not publicly address the epidemic until late in his second term, and the gay community was historically outraged by the administration's silence. The discussion provides context on the 1980s medical landscape and the slow federal response to the crisis.
Ronald Reagan Historical Parallel, Mental Health Policy
Following the news of Nancy Reagan's death, the hosts discuss Ronald Reagan's tenure as Governor of California. They recount how he campaigned on a "blue ribbon panel" to investigate student riots but ultimately focused on closing state mental institutions, a move that had long-lasting social consequences.
Hillary Clinton as Presumptive Successor and Show Outro
President Obama's jokes at the Correspondents Dinner are interpreted as an unofficial endorsement of Hillary Clinton as his successor, potentially snubbing Joe Biden. The hosts debunk the President's claim that Fox News promotes "birther" theories about his birth in Kenya, attributing those claims to right-wing talk radio instead. The segment concludes with a critique of the "phony" social interactions at the dinner and a transition to show credits.
Fairness Doctrine History and Right-Wing Talk Radio
The Fairness Doctrine, which required broadcasters to provide balanced coverage of controversial issues, is discussed in the context of its 1987 repeal under the Reagan administration. Democrats like Nancy Pelosi are reportedly interested in reinstating the policy to counter the influence of right-wing talk radio figures like Rush Limbaugh and Michael Savage. The hosts argue that talk radio is primarily entertainment and did not dictate the 2020 election outcome.
