In a special program, Raheem Kassam and Ben Bergquam discussed the shared values of populism in the United Kingdom and the United States. They highlighted the importance of these movements and the critical political juncture both nations face.
Kassam and Bergquam began by discussing the dire state of affairs under President Joe Biden’s administration. Kassam remarked, “Joe Biden has undermined our entire traditional system and created a lack of faith in the American system for all Americans.” Bergquam echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the impact on law enforcement and community safety: “He has undermined our ability to keep our neighborhoods and our communities safe by imposing outrageous policies.”
The conversation then shifted to the importance of reclaiming America and the role of leadership in this effort. Bergquam stressed, “There is nothing more important than to make sure we reclaim America and get it back to our children and our grandchildren.” Both commentators underscored the significance of putting someone like President Trump back in office. Bergquam stated, “We need to vote and put someone in office like President Trump, who we know is dedicated to giving back to us our quality of life.”
Kassam and Bergquam discussed the broader global populist movements, drawing parallels between the United States and the United Kingdom. Kassam noted that the parliamentary seat of Clacton-on-Sea had become a focal point for the European populist-nationalist movement. He explained, “This is the parliamentary seat where Brexit leader Nigel Farage has chosen to stand under the banner of his new Reform UK party.”
The discussion delved into the failures of traditional conservative parties in both countries. Kassam critiqued the Tory party, saying, “We’ve had 14 years of Conservative Party government, but it’s governed as a center to far-left party.” Kassam highlighted the frustration among the populace: “People are all frustrated. They’re all sick of their government, sick of the Tories, and the Labor Party.”
Bergquam compared the 2016 Trump campaign to Farage’s current efforts, emphasizing the need for inspirational leadership.
He remarked, “What Trump has done in America is really a political rock concert, and it’s more about what Trump inspires within us.”
Kassam added that the British community seeks someone with their back, much like Americans view Trump: “The British Community is looking for somebody who actually has their back in the same way America sees Trump having their back.”
Kassam and Bergquam also touched upon the broader populist movements across Europe, particularly in France. Kassam noted, “People thought that Marine Le Pen’s National Rally would never get near power, but in the last four or five years, they’ve matured immensely as a party and have thrashed Macron’s globalist party at the ballot box.”
Watch:
LIVE: GLOBAL POPULISM SPECIAL WITH BEN BERGQUAM AND RAHEEM KASSAM