The heated debate between Douglas Murray and Dave Smith on Joe Rogan’s podcast exposed a growing rift on the Right. Murray, a staunch defender of Israel, clashed with Smith, an anti-war comedian, over who gets to speak on complex issues like the Gaza conflict. Rogan initially tried to stay neutral but later called out Murray’s “expert” argument as hypocritical.
Murray argued that too many unqualified voices dominate serious discussions, especially about Israel. He blasted Rogan for giving platforms to conspiracy theorists and armchair historians who spread misinformation. Smith shot back, saying everyday Americans have every right to question elites—even without fancy degrees.
Rogan eventually took Smith’s side, mocking Murray’s appeal to expertise. “You’re not an expert either!” Rogan said, pointing out Murray’s English degree hardly qualifies him as a Middle East scholar. The host accused elites of failing regular people time and again, from COVID mandates to botched foreign policies.
The fallout split conservatives. Traditional hawks rallied behind Murray, praising his defense of Israel and Western values. Libertarians cheered Smith for challenging gatekeepers and speaking truth to power. Both sides agree the establishment has failed, but they clash on solutions.
Murray doubled down, saying real-world experience—like his reporting from war zones—trumps Twitter activism. He warned that dismissing expertise entirely lets lies like “Israeli genocide” spread unchecked. For patriots, truth still matters, and facts aren’t up for debate.
Smith’s attacks on Israel struck a nerve, especially from a Jewish voice. Critics called it a betrayal, accusing him of parroting Hamas propaganda. Supporters hailed him as a brave truth-teller unafraid to challenge “groupthink.” The Left, meanwhile, happily watches the Right tear itself apart.
Rogan’s role as referee highlights a cultural shift. Ordinary Americans are done being lectured by out-of-touch academics and media elites. They want raw, unfiltered debates—even if messy. The days of trusting institutions are over, and populists are leading the charge.
This clash isn’t just about Gaza. It’s about who controls the narrative in a post-truth world. Murray fights for facts and tradition. Smith champions free speech and skepticism. Both love America, but only one side can win. For conservatives, the path forward starts with unity—not infighting.