You Don’t Defeat Socialism by Giving up on Basic Economics
Podcasts > The Josh Hammer Show
Monday, August 17, 2026
Josh opens the show by tackling a fundamental question: What does it actually mean to be a conservative when it comes to the economy? Josh makes the case that conservatives must both unapologetically defend the basic integrity of capitalism while maintaining and refining some of the nationalist elements of President Trump's political program.
Ryan Girdusky joins Josh to break down another round of polling failures, including what the polls got wrong in Wisconsin with the DSA-backed candidate’s loss and what they missed in Michigan, where a DSA candidate came out on top.
Meanwhile, the civil war inside the Democratic Party continues. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries says he doesn’t support DSA policies—yet continues to support DSA candidates. Josh calls out the contradiction and asks how Democrats can distance themselves from the socialist Left while continuing to help elect its candidates.
Finally, Josh revisits comments made by former Attorney General Eric Holder about his role in the Obama administration as Democrats erupt over recent remarks from Attorney General Todd Blanche. Josh exposes what he sees as another glaring double standard and asks why the rules always seem to change depending on which party controls Washington.
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