Podcast Summary: "An Old Guy Wearing Apricot Makeup" – Deadline: White House with Nicolle Wallace
Release Date: June 17, 2025
In this compelling episode of "Deadline: White House," host Nicolle Wallace delves deep into the escalating tensions between the Trump administration and California Governor Gavin Newsom, explores the aggressive immigration policies under the Trump administration, examines internal conflicts within the Republican Party, and scrutinizes Trump's tumultuous economic strategies. The episode also features insightful discussions with key guests, shedding light on the broader implications for American democracy and governance.
1. Legal Showdown: Trump Administration vs. Governor Newsom
The episode opens with a high-stakes legal battle as California seeks to regain control of the 4,000 National Guard troops deployed by the Trump administration to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles. Governor Newsom argues that Trump's move to federalize the National Guard is both unconstitutional and an authoritarian overreach.
Governor Gavin Newsom [00:20]: "Authoritarian regimes begin by targeting the most vulnerable, but they do not stop there. Trump and his loyalists thrive on division because it allows them to consolidate power and exert even greater control."
California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alongside Governor Newsom, appeals to a three-judge panel to return the National Guard troops under state command, emphasizing the threat such actions pose to democracy nationwide.
2. Immigration Crackdown and Political Repercussions
The discussion shifts to the controversial arrest of Brad Lander, a New York City mayoral candidate, by ICE agents inside an immigration court. Lander was detained without a warrant, sparking outrage and highlighting the aggressive stance of Trump’s immigration policies against Democratic officials.
Brad Lander [05:01]: "I will let go when I see a warrant. You don't have the authority to arrest U.S. citizens."
Nicolle Wallace moderates a conversation with NBC News correspondent Jacob Soboroff, political strategist Sarah Longwell, and MSNBC analyst John Heilman to dissect the implications of such aggressive enforcement tactics.
Sarah Longwell [12:39]: "Trump has always done this. When the going gets tough for Trump, he gets tough on immigration."
Longwell argues that Trump's strategy aims to solidify his base by demonstrating unwavering commitment to immigration enforcement, despite growing public disapproval.
3. Internal Struggles within the Republican Party
A poignant segment features Senator Alex Padilla recounting his harrowing experience of being forcibly removed from a press conference by Trump’s immigration officials. This incident underscores the deep divisions and the erosion of political decorum within the Republican Party.
Senator Alex Padilla [02:40]: "I was forced to the ground. I was first on my knees and then flat on my chest... I pray you never have a moment like this."
The episode further explores the distressing behavior of Republican Senator Mike Lee, who faced backlash for his disinformation following a politically motivated assassination in Minnesota. The confrontational exchange between Senator Tina Smith and Senator Lee exemplifies the toxic rhetoric permeating Capitol Hill.
Senator Tina Smith's Chief of Staff [25:42]: "This is important that he understands... the consequence of what his words have on people who are going through so much pain and trauma."
4. Economic Turmoil: Trade Wars and Institutional Erosion
Turning to economic issues, Nicolle Wallace discusses the detrimental impact of Trump’s trade and tariff policies. The administration’s inconsistent approach has led to significant economic uncertainty, undermining American exceptionalism and deterring long-term investment.
Gene Sperling [50:30]: "Donald Trump can do all kinds of announcements... but the reality is, for CEOs all over this country and the world, the United States advantage on its fidelity to the rule of law and economic norms is gone."
Charlotte Howard from The Economist and MSNBC's Matt Dowd provide a detailed analysis of how Trump's disregard for economic norms and institutional integrity is harming both domestic and global economies.
Charlotte Howard [60:37]: "Trump's policies add up to fundamental incoherence in his management of the economy."
5. Judicial Resistance and Institutional Defiance
A significant legal victory is highlighted as a federal judge rules against Trump's cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), labeling them as "illegal void" and the "worst example of racial discrimination" he has witnessed in his 40-year tenure.
Judge William Young [Another Break Segment]: "I have never seen government racial discrimination like this. I am hesitant to draw that conclusion, but I have an unflinching obligation to do so."
This ruling emphasizes the judiciary's role as a check against executive overreach, reinforcing the integrity of American institutions despite political pressures.
6. Personal Victory: E. Jean Carroll's Legal Triumph
The episode concludes with an inspiring segment featuring writer E. Jean Carroll, who discusses her legal battles against Donald Trump. Carroll highlights her recent court victories, awarding her over $88 million in damages for defamation and abuse.
E. Jean Carroll [76:57]: "I, Eugene Carroll, pledged to make Trump very, very mad by giving most of the $100 million to all the things he hates... I'm going to be giving money to it."
Carroll's resilience and determination serve as a testament to individual courage in the face of powerful opposition, symbolizing a broader pushback against Trump's destructive influence.
Conclusion
"An Old Guy Wearing Apricot Makeup" provides a comprehensive and incisive examination of the multifaceted challenges facing American democracy under the Trump administration. From legal battles and immigration controversies to economic mismanagement and internal party conflicts, Nicolle Wallace and her guests offer a nuanced analysis of the current political landscape. Notable quotes and firsthand accounts enrich the discussion, making the episode a valuable resource for listeners seeking clarity on these pressing issues.