The Commentary Magazine Podcast Bad Republican Political Ploys
11 snips
Feb 2, 2026 A surprising Texas special-election loss and what it reveals about Republican tactics and turnout. Debates over party strategy, redistricting backfires, and personalization around national leaders. Landmark legal fallout tied to transgender healthcare and questions about clinical accountability. New attention to the Epstein file releases and their wider ramifications. A tribute to Catherine O'Hara's memorable career.
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Redistricting Backfired In Texas
- The Texas special election revealed GOP self-inflicted strategic errors that flipped a red district to Democrats.
- John Podhoretz warns mid-decade redistricting and political theatrics can backfire and energize opponents.
Revolutionary Hubris Versus Political Hacks
- Trump-style revolutionary politics rejects seasoned operatives and often spurns local expertise.
- Abe Greenwald argues that hubris works until a policy must be sustained over time.
Get Experienced Operatives Involved
- Avoid experimental nationwide political maneuvers without ground-level certainty and experienced counsel.
- John Podhoretz advises installing seasoned operatives who counsel restraint and knowledge of local politics.