DeSantis Links Crony Capitalism to Youth Support for Socialism

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has criticized Republicans for promoting crony capitalist policies, which he argues are contributing to young people’s favorable view of socialism. During an interview on the Sage Steele Show, DeSantis explained that the failure of the ‘screaming socialism’ strategy in the midterm elections was due in part to young voters’ positive perception of socialism compared to capitalism.

Education and Government Influence

DeSantis noted that while part of the reason for this perception is the education provided by universities, a larger factor is how young people compare socialism to crony capitalism. He described the situation as a ‘corporatist Republicans who propagate’ crony capitalism, calling them ‘the best kind of indirect supporters of socialism.’

‘So, here’s the issue. I think — obviously like a guy like me, if I see a socialist candidate, it’s an easy thing for me to vote no,’ DeSantis said. ‘I mean, like, it’s not even a question. But the question is, for kind of the broader electorate who aren’t as partisan, is just screaming socialism going to work? Obviously, it didn’t work in this election, and why? I think the reason is, young people have a very positive view of socialism compared to capitalism.’

Competitive Markets vs. Corporate Influence

DeSantis argued that young people are not seeing the benefits of competitive markets and free enterprise. Instead, they are witnessing a handful of companies with outsized influence over the economy and society. He pointed to the example of the Republicans in Washington seeking a 10-year amnesty for big tech, which would limit regulatory oversight over artificial intelligence.

‘If you have a competitive market and you truly have free enterprise, that’s going to benefit small businesses, that’s going to benefit individuals,’ DeSantis continued. ‘You are going to see the standard of living rise. The problem is, these young people really aren’t seeing that. They’re seeing just a handful of companies that have an outsized influence on our economy and on our society, and they see government policy.’

Risk of Socialism Without Contrast

DeSantis warned that if there is no clear contrast between freedom and socialism, society could end up embracing socialism. He emphasized that when people are presented with a choice between cronyism and socialism, they often opt for socialism because it appears as though the government is stepping in on behalf of people.

Source: Breitbart