Topic: Samuel Francis

A 1996 memo by advisor Samuel Francis to Pat Buchanan is analyzed for its accurate prediction of the rise of Trump-style populism. The essay describes a "middle American" demographic suffering from economic decline and social alienation that the conservative elite ignored. The hosts discuss how Trump's platform addresses these long-standing grievances regarding trade, immigration, and the "free lunch economy" of Washington D.C.

Conservative Catholic Supreme Court Justices Scalia, Alito, and Thomas reportedly declined to attend Pope Francis's historic joint meeting of Congress. While no official reason was given, the hosts speculate that these justices may disagree with the Pope's political stances. ABC News is noted for being "all in" on the Pope coverage while highlighting this judicial absence.