The Political Scene | The New Yorker Ben Shapiro Is Waging Battle Inside the MAGA Movement
34 snips
Feb 9, 2026 
Ben Shapiro, conservative commentator and Daily Wire co-founder, sparring with MAGA figures over conspiracies and antisemitism. He critiques Carlson and others, parses the Epstein files versus viral narratives, and explains his emphasis on personal responsibility. Short, sharp conversations on media, political allegiances, and where conservative leadership might head next.
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Conspiratorial Populism Threatens Conservatism
- Ben Shapiro argues the conservative movement faces internal danger from conspiratorial commentators who amplify antisemitic ideas.
- He says calling out figures like Tucker Carlson and others is necessary to preserve conservative norms and truth.
Breitbart's Leadership Shift After Andrew's Death
- Ben recounts joining Breitbart in February 2012 and Andrew Breitbart's sudden death weeks later, which upended leadership.
- He explains Steve Bannon's rise changed the site's editorial direction toward a more combative style.
Trump As A Pragmatic, Non‑Ideological Force
- Shapiro describes Trump as a non-ideological figure whose instincts don't map neatly to traditional labels like Reagan conservatism.
- He says Trump is pragmatic, tries things, and shifts quickly if they fail, making him politically unique.
