Why Conspiracy Theories Continue: JFK, Epstein, and America’s Quest for Answers

Hey folks, it’s your Common Sense Ohio crew here, back with some reflections from our latest episode. We get into some pretty meaty topics this week, with everything from Lincoln’s legacy to Epstein files and the power of mass delusion in the digital age. Let’s hit the highlights.

We kick things off with a nod to the Gettysburg Address, since Steve Palmer can’t pass up a good “This Day in History.” Sure, we all remember that “four score and seven years ago” bit, but the real meat, as Steve Palmer pointed out, is Lincoln’s rallying cry for unfinished work. That’s a message we both feel resonates today—our nation’s progress is always a work in progress, and each generation has a role in moving things forward, even when it’s messy and uncomfortable.

What’s going on with the collective American psyche? Why do so many young folks seem to lose faith in our country’s founding virtues, only seeing the flaws? Is it education, or something deeper? We think it’s critical to look at history honestly, but also give ourselves and our nation some grace. Mistakes were made, but America has also repeatedly fought to right its wrongs.

Of course, we couldn’t resist wading into the Epstein file debate. Should all those files be released? Steve acknowledges the risks: reputations can be destroyed by speculation baked into raw FBI notes—but full transparency does seem like the only way to clear the cloud of conspiracy. In the balance, we ended up somewhere between “let it fly” and “can we ever really know the whole truth?”

Our conversation wraps with a look at the wild swings of mass delusion in today’s world—thanks to Buck Sexton's upcoming book for the inspiration. Whether it’s COVID, environmental alarmism, or the mythic promise of socialism, these narratives can sweep the world with lightning speed, amplified by the internet.

Whether we agree, disagree, or land in the messy middle, one thing’s for sure: common sense is always worth chasing here in Ohio (and beyond). Let us know what you think, and don’t forget to check out the backlog at commonsenseohioshow.com!

00:00 "Dedication to Unfinished Work"

06:27 "Understanding America's Complex History"

07:38 "Understanding Human Struggle and Growth"

12:37 Epstein FBI Files Debate

13:56 "Epstein Speculation vs. Proof"

17:57 Larry Summers, Epstein Connection

22:36 Transparency Solves Political Dilemmas

23:26 "Speculation on Epstein Investigation Files"

27:52 "Not a Legal Precedent"

31:44 "Propaganda's Global Digital Reach"

35:39 "Reassessing COVID Response Attitudes"

37:16 "Critique of Socialism and Leadership"

40:04 "Trump Administration Economic Gimmicks"

44:27 "Linda McMahon Closing Education Department"

46:16 "Federal vs. Local Education Debate"

49:35 "Whole Language vs. Phonics"

52:48 "James Garfield: Speech to Presidency"

56:00 "Reluctant but Principled President"

#Conspiracies #Gettysburgaddress #Education #Epstein #Socialism #Lincoln #History #Government #Reform #America