Getting Hammered® 2020 Vibes as Signaling is Up and Competence Down
Feb 4, 2026
They compare shifting car culture and first-car nostalgia, including Gen Z attitudes toward vehicles. They unpack Texas Democratic primary drama and how influencer signaling shapes campaigns. They critique political messaging at the Grammys and performative activism. They cover city dysfunction from school closures to trash problems and revisit Loudoun County school board controversy. They debate interest in the Winter Olympics.
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Auto Show Observations
- Vic Matus recounts attending the Washington Auto Show and noticing fewer young people and manual transmissions.
- He notes many luxury brands returned and electric cars looked plentiful but had weak demand in resale markets.
Driving Skills May Fade
- Mary Katharine Ham worries driving skills may decline as younger generations drive less and autonomous tech rises.
- She values stick shifts for safety and engagement, saying they reduce distracted driving.
Signaling Over Substance In Texas Race
- Mary Katharine Ham calls the Texas Democratic primary drama a product of 2020-era identity politics and influencer culture.
- She argues racially tinged accusations and influencer-driven leaks are dated tactics that hurt electability in Texas.
