Summary of "Free Thinking Through the Fourth Turning with Sasha Stone"
Episode: "The Day I Called Trump 'My President'"
Release Date: July 13, 2025

In this poignant episode, Sacha Stone delves into the seismic political and cultural shifts that have transpired one year after the tragic Butler, Pennsylvania rally where an assassination attempt on Donald Trump occurred. Through a blend of firsthand accounts, expert commentary, and personal reflections, Stone explores the enduring impact of the event on both the MAGA movement and the broader American sociopolitical landscape.

1. The Butler Rally and Assassination Attempt

Stone opens the episode by recounting the events of the Butler rally, a significant moment in MAGA history. The rally was notably marked by a shooting incident that nearly claimed Trump's life and resulted in the death of a bystander, Corey Comperatore.

• Tucker Carlson's Perspective (00:55)
  Carlson provides a detailed backdrop of Butler, Pennsylvania, highlighting its decline and the disconnect between the town's residents and the professional class in major cities. He emphasizes the resilience and loyalty of Butler's citizens to Trump despite widespread negative perceptions:

  "Millions of Americans sincerely love Donald Trump. They love him in spite of everything they've heard... Donald Trump is and has always been a living indictment of the people who run this country."
  (00:55)

• Detailed Account of the Shooting (05:22 - 07:07)
  The episode meticulously describes the chaotic moments during the rally when Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old armed with an AR15, opened fire. Despite the immediate danger, Trump's quick reflexes and the rapid response of the Secret Service ensured his safety, albeit at the cost of Comperatore's life and injuries to others.

  "Donald Trump reaches up with his hand. The first bullet pierces the upper part of his right ear... Secret Service agents swarm the former president and shield him with their bodies."
  (05:22 - 06:56)

2. Community Aftermath and Corey's Legacy

One year post-Butler, Stone reflects on the community's efforts to honor Corey Comperatore, who became a symbol of sacrifice during the tragic event.

• Tribute to Corey Comperatore (10:15 - 12:20)
  COREy's family organizes "Corey's Cruise," a motorcycle ride celebrating his life and contributions as a volunteer firefighter and community member. His daughters, Allison and Kaylee, express deep gratitude for the recognition and the collective memory of his heroism.

  "He was so involved in the community... He would be in support of this. 110%."
  (10:37)

• Selina Zito's Account (12:20 - 14:44)
  Author Selina Zito provides an in-depth narrative of Butler's significance and Trump's unique connection to the town. Her insights emphasize the cultural and historical importance of Butler in understanding Trump's appeal.

  "He'd cry at the end of the night when nobody was looking... One year after Butler, it has been promises made and promises kept for people like me."
  (12:20 - 14:44)

3. Political Climate and Inner Conflicts Within MAGA

Stone examines the internal dynamics and challenges facing the MAGA movement a year after the Butler incident, highlighting skepticism, shifting loyalties, and emerging fractures.

• Changing Allegiances (22:20 - 24:06)
  The episode features accounts of MAGA supporters like Andrew Schultz, who express disillusionment with Trump's administration, citing unmet promises and policy reversals.

  "I voted for none of this. He's doing the exact opposite of everything I voted for."
  (23:46)

• Epstein Files and Conspiracy Theories (17:27 - 23:59)
  The discussion delves into the contentious issues surrounding the Epstein files, with figures like Selena Zito criticizing the handling and suppression of information. The conversation touches on broader themes of political corruption and media manipulation.

  "Why didn't these radical left lunatics release the Epstein files?"
  (21:27)

• Tucker Carlson's Critique (20:21 - 22:20)
  Carlson laments the diversion of focus from pressing domestic issues to controversial social policies, particularly targeting transgender participation in sports.

  "I want to see a country I recognize. I don't want to see people sleeping on the sidewalk... Good. I'm so glad."
  (20:21)

4. Social Issues: Transgender Policies and Healthcare

Stone addresses the contentious debates surrounding transgender rights and healthcare, underscoring the polarized viewpoints and legislative battles.

• Trans Youth's Testimony (14:44 - 16:10)
  An unnamed transgender youth shares a harrowing account of medical transition, highlighting the physical and psychological repercussions that were glossed over by professionals and institutions.

  "He didn't tell me that taking cross sex hormones and undergoing major surgery at 14 years old could leave me with pelvic floor dysfunction."
  (14:44)

• Legal Battles Over Transgender Sports (16:10 - 17:27)
  The episode covers the Trump administration's lawsuit against California's Department of Education for allowing transgender girls to compete in girls' sports, framing it as a violation of federal law and a demeaning policy.

  "They are forcing recognition of boys as girls... redefining speaking self-evident truth as an act of punishable heresy."
  (22:20)

5. Reflections and Personal Journey

In the concluding segments, Stone shares her personal transformation from a former Democrat and Leftist into a critic seeking to understand the opposing side, ultimately supporting Trump.

• Humanizing the Opposite Side (29:02 - 32:12)
  Stone narrates her journey of attending Trump's rallies, initially viewing him skeptically, but gradually recognizing the shared humanity and genuine support behind his persona. The assassination attempt catalyzed her deeper reflection on political divides and the necessity of understanding one's adversaries.

  "If I'd never left the doomsday bunker and found my way to watching a MAGA rally, I'd have never humanized Trump either."
  (32:12)

• Final Thoughts on Political Unity and Future Outlook (32:12 - 38:21)
  Stone emphasizes the importance of solidarity within political movements and the challenges posed by internal conflicts and external opposition. She underscores the resilience of the MAGA base despite attempts to fragment the movement through high-profile scandals and legal battles.

  "One year after Butler, I know I made the right choice when I voted for Trump. I'll be forever grateful to him for rescuing this country."
  (32:12)

6. Musical Interlude and Closing Remarks

The episode transitions into a musical segment featuring an original song that echoes the tumultuous emotions surrounding the Butler event and the ongoing political strife. The lyrics convey themes of loss, love, and lingering tensions.

Key Takeaways

• Enduring Loyalty to Trump: Despite widespread negative portrayals, significant segments of the American population remain steadfastly loyal to Donald Trump, viewing him as a bulwark against perceived societal decay.

• Community Resilience: The Butler community's tribute to Corey Comperatore underscores the profound personal losses wrought by political violence and the collective efforts to maintain solidarity and remembrance.

• Internal MAGA Divisions: The episode highlights growing dissent within the MAGA movement, with supporters reevaluating their allegiance based on unmet expectations and evolving political stances.

• Contentious Social Policies: Debates over transgender rights and healthcare reflect deeper societal rifts, with legislative actions serving as flashpoints for broader ideological battles.

• Personal Transformation: Sacha Stone's journey from leftist critique to a nuanced understanding of MAGA supporters exemplifies the complexities of political realignment and the human capacity for empathy across ideological divides.

Notable Quotes:

• "Millions of Americans sincerely love Donald Trump. They love him in spite of everything they've heard." — Tucker Carlson (00:55)

• "He would be in support of this. 110%." — Allison Comperatore (10:55)

• "I voted for none of this. He's doing the exact opposite of everything I voted for." — Andrew Schultz (23:46)

• "If I'd never left the doomsday bunker and found my way to watching a MAGA rally, I'd have never humanized Trump either." — Sacha Stone (32:12)

This comprehensive exploration offers listeners a deep dive into the complexities of post-Butler political dynamics, personal transformations, and the enduring tensions shaping America's cultural and political fabric.