Digital Social Hour | Episode #1773: "Roger Stone Jr. Breaks Down Power, Politics, and the Next 2 Years"
Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Roger Stone Jr.
Date: January 20, 2026
Episode Overview
In this provocative and politically charged episode, host Sean Kelly sits down with longtime political adviser and strategist Roger Stone Jr. at AmFest. The conversation dives deep into the current political climate, right-wing divisions, conspiracy theories, party loyalty, key figures in American politics, and Stone's perspective on the challenges ahead for the country. Stone is frank and unfiltered, sharing personal anecdotes, sharp critiques of political adversaries, and predictions about the near future of American power and governance.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. The Rise of "Radical Marxist Clique" and the Political Landscape
- Stone warns of a "radical Marxist clique" poised to attempt to take control of the country, viewing this as the primary existential threat over the next two years.
- He frames the event turnout (20,000 to 30,000 young people) as evidence of youth engagement and credits Charlie Kirk for mobilization efforts after his recent assassination.
"We owe it to Charlie to stay focused on the ball, which is saving this country from radical Marxism." — Roger Stone, [00:21]
2. Roger Stone’s Upcoming Book: Bushwhacked
- Stone previews his forthcoming book on the attempted assassination of Ronald Reagan, alleging inconsistencies in the established narrative surrounding John Hinckley Jr.
"John Hinckley Jr. is the accused shooter of Reagan...How. Why then is Reagan shot from above and behind? I'll prove it in the book." — Roger Stone, [01:00]
3. Right-Wing Division and the Assassination of Charlie Kirk
- Stone notes that Kirk’s assassination has further divided the political right.
- Despite not being an "expert on ballistics," Stone calls for attention to the broader threat of leftist movements rather than infighting.
"The worst part about this is that Charlie's dead. That's the worst part." — Roger Stone, [01:22]
"We owe it to Charlie to stay focused on the ball..." — Roger Stone, [01:28]
4. "Deep State" and the Threat to Trump’s Presidency
- Stone frames the "deep state" as a bipartisan but unelected political establishment opposed to Donald Trump’s presidency.
- He predicts a concerted effort to regain congressional control and thus impair Trump’s effectiveness in the final two years of his term.
"...the permanent unelected political establishment ... dominated both parties in America until Donald Trump came along. They didn't expect him to make the greatest comeback in American political history." — Roger Stone, [02:04]
5. Succession Speculations: J.D. Vance and Tulsi Gabbard
- Stone backs J.D. Vance as Trump’s successor and emphasizes the importance of a "strong, viable, attractive vice Presidential candidate," personally suggesting Tulsi Gabbard.
"I don't want to mention any names. Tulsi Gabbard." — Roger Stone, [02:48]
6. The Epstein Files, Political Associations & Scandals
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Stone revisits connections to Jeffrey Epstein, referencing his 2015 book and pointing to flight manifests implicating influential Democrats, most notably Bill Clinton, but claims no Republicans are listed.
"Three eyewitnesses put you [Bill Clinton] on the island under oath." — Roger Stone, [03:13]
"There are no Republicans on that list." — Roger Stone, [03:54] -
Stone also reveals surprise at Steve Bannon’s connection to Epstein, citing newly revealed emails and photos:
"...after Bannon was fired by Trump, he becomes a fixture at Epstein's home in New York, visits his apartment in Paris ... he was coaching Epstein in his public rehabilitation." — Roger Stone, [04:24]
7. Loyalty and Betrayal in Politics
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Stone recounts his personal dealings with Steve Bannon, who testified against him despite earlier denials of knowledge regarding Wikileaks.
"You can imagine my surprise when he showed up at my trial as Robert Mueller's surprise witness ... all of which is a perjurist lie." — Roger Stone, [07:08]
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On loyalty in politics:
"If you want loyalty in politics, get a dog." — Roger Stone, [07:27]
8. Trump’s All-Star Cabinet & Political Outlook
- Stone praises Trump’s assembled team, especially Scott Besson (cryptocurrency advocate), RFK Jr. (critic of Big Pharma), Tulsi Gabbard, and Marco Rubio.
"This is the best cabinet in American history ... including Marco Rubio ... the effectiveness and the efficiency in which he's implemented ... Trump’s agenda ... has been very impressive." — Roger Stone, [08:15]
9. The Volatility of Midterms and Future Predictions
- Stone expresses skepticism that Democrats will necessarily win the midterms, emphasizing volatility in American politics and pointing to Trump’s economic achievements and monetary reform as strengths.
"Anyone who tells you that that's a certainty doesn't understand the volatility of American politics. In politics, a week is a lifetime." — Roger Stone, [09:37]
10. On Impeachment & Accountability
- Stone opines that if Democrats gain control, they will attempt to impeach Trump again.
- When asked who should be in prison but isn't, Stone names John Brennan, Andrew Weissman, Mike Pompeo, and James Comey, alleging their involvement in fabricating the Steele dossier and undermining Trump.
"John Brennan? No question whatsoever. He knew that the Steele dossier was a fraud." — Roger Stone, [10:26]
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- "[On infighting after Charlie Kirk's death] The worst part about this is that Charlie's dead. That's the worst part. ... We owe it to Charlie to stay focused on the ball, which is saving this country from radical Marxism." — Roger Stone, [01:22]
- "If you want loyalty in politics, get a dog." — Roger Stone, [07:27]
- "This is the best cabinet in American history." — Roger Stone, [08:14]
- "[On Bannon’s betrayal] ...all of which is a perjurist lie." — Roger Stone, [07:20]
- "Anyone who tells you that that's a certainty doesn't understand the volatility of American politics. In politics, a week is a lifetime." — Roger Stone, [09:37]
Timestamps for Important Segments
- [00:00–01:22] — Stone on "radical Marxist clique," Charlie Kirk's legacy, and the importance of youth turnout
- [01:38–01:59] — Announcement of his new book, Bushwhacked, and its claims about the Reagan assassination attempt
- [03:04–04:48] — Deep dive into Epstein’s island, Bill Clinton, revelation about Steve Bannon
- [07:08–07:31] — Stone details his perceived betrayal by Steve Bannon and reflects on loyalty in politics
- [08:10–08:56] — Praise for Trump’s new cabinet: Besson, RFK Jr., Gabbard, Rubio
- [09:31–10:20] — Predictions about midterms, economic policies, and Trump’s prospects
- [10:20–11:10] — Stone names major political figures he believes should be prosecuted
Tone and Style
The dialogue maintains the combative, polemic, and occasionally conspiratorial tone characteristic of both the guest and the Digital Social Hour’s brand, interspersed with moments of nostalgia and unapologetic partisanship. Stone projects certainty, historical recall, and a readiness to challenge political norms, while Kelly guides the conversation with pointed, concise questions and moments of agreement.
This episode offers a window into Roger Stone's worldview and political theorizing, making it a must-listen (or read) for anyone following current American political dynamics or interested in the inside baseball of right-wing strategists.
