What Ben Franklin and Thomas Paine Would Think About America in 2026, with Jonathan Turley
From Megyn Kelly
The discussion explores the perspectives of historical figures Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine on contemporary America, highlighting their potential reactions to modern societal issues such as immigration and cultural behaviors. It examines Paine's transformative journey from failure to key revolutionary figure, emphasizing Franklin's role in recognizing and nurturing his talents, while reflecting on how the founders would likely be shocked by the current state of the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Franklin would likely be aghast at today's Puritanical irony: skin is in, but liberties are on the decline.
- Common Sense ignited a revolution; today's polarized America may be crying out for its own revolutionary voice.
- The French Revolution consumed its leaders; will today's ideological factions minimize dissent or devour their own?
- Franklin saw potential in failure; today's leaders might overlook genius hidden behind perceived inadequacies and failures.
- From Enlightenment ideals to calls for constitutional amendments, are we edging toward an era of governance by emotion?
Mentioned in This Episode
- Thomas Paine (person)
- Benny (grandson of Benjamin Franklin) (person)
- Common Sense (book)
- Rage of the Republic (book)
- Nature Journal of Medicine (book)
- Congressman Adam Smith (person)
- James Madison (person)
- Birch Gold Group (company)
- John Quincy Adams (person)
- Marcus de Lafayette (person)