The Point Special: One-on-one with Seymour Hersh

Summary

In this compelling interview, Seymour Hersh, an investigative journalist, delves into U.S. foreign policy, media transparency, and the war in Ukraine. He criticizes the current administration's handling of Russia, China, and the situation in Ukraine, while emphasizing the need for accountability and deeper investigations. Hersh expresses concerns about the erosion of constitutional principles and the role of intelligence agencies in uncovering truths. Despite his disillusionment with the political landscape, he remains committed to speaking out against injustices, offering sharp critiques of both media and political figures.

Takeaways

• 😀 Seymour Hersh critiques the Biden administration's handling of the Ukraine war and Russia's aggression, suggesting that fear of losing Europe's support over Russian gas influenced decisions.
• 😀 Hersh believes that if a similar situation involving China were to arise, media coverage would be far more extensive and critical, highlighting a double standard in reporting.
• 😀 Over 60% of Americans are reportedly against the massive spending on the Ukraine war, showing a lack of public support for continued financial aid to Ukraine.
• 😀 Hersh expresses his concerns about the devaluation of the Constitution, particularly under the Trump administration, pointing to the erosion of democratic principles.
• 😀 Despite his criticism of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Hersh emphasizes the importance of professional diplomacy rather than personal animosity in international relations.
• 😀 Hersh argues that the lack of proper editorial oversight in modern media leads to misinformation, reflecting his earlier stance on editors being too controlling and unnecessary.
• 😀 The journalist questions the role of the U.S. government in holding Russia accountable for the war, suggesting that higher levels of transparency are needed.
• 😀 Hersh recounts his own history of uncovering difficult stories, highlighting his persistence in reporting despite resistance, and reflects on his sense of patriotism toward the U.S.
• 😀 He suggests that the U.S. president has the power to uncover the truth about events like the Nord Stream pipeline attack by simply tasking intelligence agencies to investigate.
• 😀 Hersh underscores the significance of critical thinking, a product of his education and upbringing, as an essential part of understanding and reporting on complex political issues.

Q & A

What is Seymour Hersh's main critique of the Biden administration's handling of Russia?

Seymour Hersh critiques the Biden administration for its actions regarding Russia, particularly its lack of a clear reason for certain decisions. He argues that some of these actions were motivated by fear of Europe potentially distancing itself from the U.S. due to reliance on Russian gas, rather than strategic or principled reasoning.

How does Seymour Hersh view the media's coverage of U.S. relations with China?

Hersh points out that the tough rhetoric from U.S. officials regarding China is not covered prominently in the media, especially when compared to the extensive coverage of other international matters. He suggests that the media often downplays critical issues involving countries that are considered threats to the United States, such as China.

What is Seymour Hersh's opinion on public support for the war in Ukraine?

Hersh acknowledges that while he supports Ukraine in its war with Russia, he notes that a significant portion of the U.S. public is skeptical about the ongoing financial and military support for Ukraine. He cites polls showing that over 60% of Americans disapprove of the money being spent on the war.

What does Seymour Hersh say about the role of the U.S. Constitution in contemporary American politics?

Hersh expresses concern that the U.S. Constitution has been devalued, particularly during the Trump administration. He argues that Trump’s actions and rhetoric have contributed to a fear-driven atmosphere that undermines the principles of the Constitution and democratic norms.

How does Seymour Hersh view his role as a journalist in relation to government and political power?

Hersh sees his role as a journalist as one of holding power accountable, even when it means challenging political figures and institutions. He reflects on his past work, including investigative pieces, and stresses the importance of critical thinking and speaking out when government actions are wrong.

What is Seymour Hersh’s approach to self-publishing and editorial oversight?

Hersh practices a form of self-publishing, where he maintains editorial independence, but still works with a prominent editor and fact-checkers from respected outlets. He believes in high-quality journalism without relying on traditional editorial structures.

What event does Seymour Hersh reflect on when discussing his past work and its challenges?

Hersh reflects on his reporting about a massacre by American troops, where 500 individuals were killed, and the difficulties he faced in getting the story published. Despite widespread denial, he persevered, and his reporting became a significant piece of investigative journalism.

What does Seymour Hersh mean by 'the monster' created by Donald Trump?

Hersh refers to the 'monster' created by Trump as the toxic political climate of fear and division in the U.S. He believes that Trump’s rhetoric and actions have deepened divisions and fostered an atmosphere where critical thinking and constitutional principles are undermined.

Does Seymour Hersh believe the U.S. government will ever fully disclose the truth about certain international matters?

No, Hersh believes that the U.S. government, under the current administration, will never fully disclose the truth about certain sensitive matters, such as the alleged involvement in the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline. He suggests that even if the truth is known, it will remain undisclosed due to political reasons.

How does Seymour Hersh suggest the U.S. president could get to the bottom of the Nord Stream issue?

Hersh suggests that the President could ask the American intelligence community to investigate the issue, particularly through the Office of National Intelligence and the CIA. He believes that these agencies have the necessary expertise and resources to uncover the truth, but implies that the President may already know the answer and chooses not to pursue it.