The fallout from Biden’s debate performance
Digest
The episode of GPS, the Global Public Square, delves into the aftermath of the presidential debate, where President Biden's performance raised concerns about his competence and prompted calls for him to withdraw from the race. The panel discusses the potential consequences of Biden's performance and the possibility of a Democratic convention to choose a new nominee. The episode also features an interview with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who argues that the US Congress should disinvite Prime Minister Netanyahu from speaking to it, citing Netanyahu's lack of commitment to peace and his use of the address to strengthen his domestic position. Barak also expresses concerns about the potential for a wider war in the North with Hezbollah. The episode concludes with an interview with Rabbi Sharon Brous, who discusses the rise of anti-Semitism and the generational divide among American Jews regarding Israel and the Palestinian conflict. She emphasizes the importance of upholding core values of justice and dignity for all people, even in times of conflict. The episode ends with Farid Zakaria's take on the case for optimism, highlighting the global preference for Western values and the importance of addressing challenges openly and honestly.
Outlines
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Introduction
This Chapter introduces the episode of GPS, the Global Public Square, hosted by Farid Zakaria. It sets the stage for the discussion on the fallout from the presidential debate and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
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Biden's Debate Performance and its Fallout
This Chapter focuses on the analysis of President Biden's performance in the presidential debate. The panel, including David From and Edward Luce, discusses the concerns raised about Biden's competence and the calls for him to drop out of the race. They debate the potential consequences of Biden's performance and the possibility of a Democratic convention to choose a new nominee.
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Ehud Barak on Netanyahu's Invitation to Congress
This Chapter features an interview with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. He argues that the US Congress should disinvite Prime Minister Netanyahu from speaking to it, citing Netanyahu's lack of commitment to peace and his use of the address to strengthen his domestic position. Barak also expresses concerns about the potential for a wider war in the North with Hezbollah.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Rabbi Sharon Brous on Anti-Semitism and Generational Divide
This Chapter features an interview with Rabbi Sharon Brous, who discusses the rise of anti-Semitism and the generational divide among American Jews regarding Israel and the Palestinian conflict. She emphasizes the importance of upholding core values of justice and dignity for all people, even in times of conflict.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Farid Zakaria's Case for Optimism
This Chapter concludes the episode with Farid Zakaria's take on the case for optimism. He highlights the global preference for Western values and the importance of addressing challenges openly and honestly.
Keywords
President Biden
Joe Biden is the 46th and current president of the United States. He previously served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Biden is a member of the Democratic Party and has been a prominent figure in American politics for over five decades. He is known for his moderate political views and his focus on bipartisanship.
Donald Trump
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. Trump is a member of the Republican Party and is known for his controversial and divisive rhetoric. He is a prominent figure in American politics and has been a subject of much debate and scrutiny.
Presidential Debate
A presidential debate is a formal meeting between candidates for the office of president of the United States. Debates are typically held during the election season and provide voters with an opportunity to hear the candidates' positions on key issues. Debates are often televised and are a major event in the election cycle.
Ehud Barak
Ehud Barak is an Israeli politician and former military officer who served as the 10th Prime Minister of Israel from 1999 to 2001. He is a member of the Labor Party and is known for his military background and his efforts to achieve peace with the Palestinians. Barak was a key figure in the Oslo Accords, which aimed to establish a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Benjamin Netanyahu
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician who has served as Prime Minister of Israel for a record 15 years, making him the longest-serving prime minister in Israeli history. He is a member of the Likud party and is known for his right-wing political views. Netanyahu is a controversial figure, both domestically and internationally, and his policies have been criticized by many.
Israel-Palestine Conflict
The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-standing and complex dispute between Israelis and Palestinians over the control of the land in the region. The conflict has its roots in the early 20th century, when Jewish Zionists began to immigrate to Palestine, which was then under British rule. The conflict escalated after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, and has continued to this day, with numerous wars, uprisings, and negotiations.
Anti-Semitism
Anti-Semitism is hostility or discrimination against Jews. It is a form of racism and prejudice that has been prevalent throughout history. Anti-Semitism can manifest in various ways, including verbal abuse, physical violence, and economic boycotts. It is a serious problem that continues to affect Jewish communities around the world.
Generational Divide
A generational divide refers to the differences in values, beliefs, and attitudes between different generations. These differences can be significant and can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Generational divides are often seen in politics, culture, and social issues.
Optimism
Optimism is a positive outlook on life and a belief that things will turn out well. It is a state of mind that can help people cope with challenges and setbacks. Optimism is often associated with hope, resilience, and a belief in the future.
Western Values
Western values are a set of principles and beliefs that are commonly associated with Western culture. These values include democracy, individual liberty, human rights, and the rule of law. Western values are often contrasted with other sets of values, such as those found in authoritarian or totalitarian regimes.
Q&A
What are the main concerns raised about President Biden's performance in the presidential debate?
The main concerns raised about President Biden's performance in the presidential debate are his competence and his ability to handle the demands of the presidency. Some critics argue that his performance confirmed their suspicions about his age and mental acuity, while others believe that it raises serious questions about his ability to effectively lead the country.
What are the potential consequences of Biden's performance in the debate?
The potential consequences of Biden's performance in the debate are significant. Some Democrats are calling for him to drop out of the race, while others are urging him to stay in and fight for the nomination. There is also a possibility that the Democratic Party could hold a convention to choose a new nominee, although this would be a risky and potentially divisive move.
Why does Ehud Barak believe that the US Congress should disinvite Prime Minister Netanyahu from speaking to it?
Ehud Barak believes that the US Congress should disinvite Prime Minister Netanyahu from speaking to it because he believes that Netanyahu is not committed to peace and that he will use the address to strengthen his domestic position. Barak also expresses concerns about the potential for a wider war in the North with Hezbollah.
What is the generational divide among American Jews regarding Israel and the Palestinian conflict?
The generational divide among American Jews regarding Israel and the Palestinian conflict is evident in the differing perspectives on the conflict. Older generations tend to view Israel as a David in a sea of powerful nations, while younger generations are more critical of Israel's policies and its lack of commitment to peace. This divide is often attributed to the changing political landscape and the growing awareness of the Palestinian perspective.
What is Farid Zakaria's case for optimism?
Farid Zakaria's case for optimism is based on the global preference for Western values and the importance of addressing challenges openly and honestly. He believes that despite the challenges facing the world, the West's commitment to democracy, individual liberty, and human rights will ultimately prevail. He also argues that the United States, despite its internal divisions, is still a powerful and influential nation that can overcome its challenges.
Show Notes
Today on the show, Fareed is joined by Financial Times columnist Edward Luce and staff writer at The Atlantic David Frum to discuss the fallout from Thursday night’s presidential debate. Should Biden drop out of the race? They discuss the calculations taking place within the Democratic Party and the stakes of a potential second Trump term.
Next, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert talks to Fareed about why Olmert believes the US Congress should rescind its invitation for PM Netanyahu to speak to a joint session. They also discuss the potential for a devastating war with Lebanon.
Finally, Rabbi Sharon Brous joins the show to discuss the frightening rise in antisemitism and how American Jews are grappling with their identities as the war in Gaza drags on.
GUESTS: Edward Luce (@EdwardGLuce), David Frum (@davidfrum), Ehud Olmert, Rabbi Sharon Brous (@SharonBrous)
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