Free Thinking Through the Fourth Turning with Sasha Stone

Episode Title: The Epstein Files Are a Gift to the Democrats
Release Date: July 17, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of "Free Thinking Through the Fourth Turning," host Sacha Stone delves into the controversial topic of the Jeffrey Epstein files and their significant political ramifications. Stone argues that the release and ongoing scrutiny of these files present a strategic advantage for Democrats, potentially undermining former President Donald Trump's base. Through a mixture of personal insights, curated tweets, and expert opinions, the episode dissects the multifaceted impact of the Epstein scandal on contemporary American politics.

Democrats' Opportunism in the Epstein Scandal

Stone opens the discussion by asserting that the Epstein files serve as a "gift to the Democrats," providing them with a powerful tool to attack Trump's legacy and dismantle the MAGA movement. She highlights the persistent media focus on Epstein, drawing parallels to the earlier Clinton email scandal:

Sacha Stone [00:00]: "...it will go with the Epstein files...[They] didn't even have to lift a finger... MAGA did it all on their own."

Drawing from a tweet by Neera Tandon at [02:15], Stone emphasizes the DOJ's mishandling of the Epstein files as a "biggest political disaster" for the current administration, suggesting that officials like Pam Bondi are protecting significant interests:

Neera Tandon [02:15]: "The DOJ handling of the Epstein files is the biggest political disaster to hit this administration."

Similarly, Ben Rhodes is quoted at [03:40], reflecting Trump's dismissal of Epstein as a mere "hoax," further fueling Democratic narratives:

Ben Rhodes [03:40]: "These scams and hoaxes are all the Democrats are good at... They are no good at governing."

Trump’s Stance and Its Impact

Trump's approach to the Epstein files is portrayed as dismissive, branding the scandal a "Democratic hoax" and refusing to engage substantively with the issue. Stone cites a tweet by Dinesh D'Souza at [04:50], which underscores Trump's narrative that the Epstein files are used by Democrats to dismantle his support base:

Dinesh D'Souza [04:50]: "The left and the Democrats are seizing on the Epstein issue like a drowning man grabbing onto a tree branch."

Stone critiques Trump's strategy, noting his reluctance to campaign on the Epstein scandal despite its potential to resonate with his base. She reflects on a quote from Bridget at [07:27]:

Bridget [07:27]: "He didn't campaign on it and never talked about it at rallies... how many of his supporters actually care about this if he never campaigned on it?"

This disconnect is further analyzed through Trump's own words during a press interaction, where he vehemently denies the existence of a damaging list tied to Epstein:

Donald Trump [26:05]: "He won't release the list cuz he's on the list."

Media's Role in Perpetuating the Epstein Narrative

Stone critiques the media's relentless focus on the Epstein files, likening it to their treatment of past scandals such as the Clinton emails and the MeToo movement. She argues that the media's fixation on salacious details detracts from more substantive issues like climate change and policy failures:

Sacha Stone [12:01]: "She’s never backed off of a story, no matter who it might hurt politically... But that was the message they took from 2016."

Stone points out that the media's agenda aligns with Democratic interests, ensuring that the Epstein story remains in the public eye to maintain political pressure on Trump and his allies.

Conspiracy Theories and Their Implications

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to dissecting the role of conspiracy theories surrounding the Epstein files. Drawing on insights from Dr. Grande at [30:45], Stone explores how Trump's handling of the scandal has inadvertently fueled unfounded theories, potentially alienating rational constituents while emboldening die-hard conspiracists:

Dr. Grande [30:45]: "There is no such thing as a satisfied conspiracy theorist... They will never forgive Trump for failing to release them."

Dr. Grande further explains the lifecycle of conspiracy theories, emphasizing that once a seed is planted, it perpetuates indefinitely, regardless of evidence or governmental transparency.

Internal Frictions within Trump's Base

Stone highlights emerging fractures within Trump's support base, particularly among MAGA influencers who are beginning to distance themselves from Trump due to the Epstein files controversy. Referencing a tumultuous Truth Social post at [23:33], she notes the growing disillusionment among staunch supporters:

Sacha Stone [23:33]: "There is a real fracture in the President's base and some of his most ardent supporters."

Influencers like Benny Johnson have publicly criticized Trump, indicating a significant shift in the internal dynamics of the MAGA movement. This internal strife is portrayed as a strategic victory for Democrats, who can leverage these divisions to weaken Trump's political influence.

Broader Cultural and Political Commentary

Stone offers a historical perspective, comparing the current Epstein scandal's impact to past political sexual scandals, such as Bill Clinton's affair with Monica Lewinsky. She argues that while Democrats historically tolerated such misconduct for political gain, the Epstein files now pose a more existential threat to their coalition:

Sacha Stone [29:16]: "The left used to be the side that didn't care about married men cavorting on an island with barely legal sex workers... But the Epstein case... might be what the Democrats hope for."

Stone underscores the depth of the Epstein scandal's potential to fracture Democratic alliances, drawing a stark contrast to previous scandals that, while damaging, did not threaten the party's core cohesion.

Conclusion: The Future of the Epstein Files in American Politics

In concluding the episode, Stone posits that the Epstein files represent a pivotal moment in American politics, with the potential to redefine power structures and influence upcoming elections. She warns that as the left continues to exploit the scandal, the long-term implications could be severe, leading to the "rise and fall of a once mighty empire." Stone calls for listeners to remain vigilant and true to their beliefs amidst the ongoing political turmoil:

Sacha Stone [36:20]: "No, this is only the beginning and everyone knows it. The left knows it most of all."

The episode wraps up with a reflective commentary on how deeply entrenched conspiracy theories and political opportunism could reshape the future landscape, leaving listeners with a poignant reminder to "thine own self be true."

Notable Quotes:

• Sacha Stone [00:00]: "The Epstein files are a gift to the Democrats."
• Neera Tandon [02:15]: "The DOJ handling of the Epstein files is the biggest political disaster to hit this administration."
• Ben Rhodes [03:40]: "These scams and hoaxes are all the Democrats are good at."
• Dinesh D'Souza [04:50]: "The left and the Democrats are seizing on the Epstein issue like a drowning man grabbing onto a tree branch."
• Dr. Grande [30:45]: "There is no such thing as a satisfied conspiracy theorist."
• Sacha Stone [36:20]: "No, this is only the beginning and everyone knows it."

Final Thoughts

Sacha Stone's in-depth analysis in this episode sheds light on the intricate interplay between political strategy, media influence, and public perception surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files. By positioning the scandal as a strategic advantage for Democrats, Stone invites listeners to reconsider the broader implications of ongoing political narratives and their impact on the fabric of American democracy.

For more insights and detailed essays, visit sashastone.substack.com.