S15 EP143: Hour 2 - The V-8
Aug 13, 2026 · 36m
Summary
Erickson argues that the Trump administration’s refusal to appeal a Texas ruling on gun suppressors mirrors Democratic tactics from the Proposition 8 era, warning that such legal precedents will bind future governments. He also discusses the resurgence of V8 engines as consumers reject inefficient regulations, debunking myths about data center water usage. Finally, he expresses concern over Ken Paxton’s lackluster campaign strategy in Texas, citing warnings from political analyst Mark Halperin.
Topics discussed
Introduction and show overview
Precedent matters: Prop 8 and legal history
Clinton era settlements and binding precedents
Texas ruling on NFA suppressors and permits
Reality of suppressors vs. movie myths
Republicans learning tactics from Democrats
Data centers and water usage conspiracy theories
Old Glory Bank ad and progressive vs conservative values
Shower head flow restrictions and hotel complaints
Return of the V8 engine in trucks
Appliance reliability and energy efficiency standards
Cost of ownership for EVs and Cybertrucks
Critique of modern appliance durability
Ken Paxton's Senate race and campaign concerns
Perfectly Snug mattress topper advertisement
Listen ad-free on Castria