Legal AF Podcast Summary
Episode: Panicked Trump’s Lawsuit Over Epstein Secrets Instantly Backfires
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Host: Michael Popak
Produced by: MeidasTouch Network
Overview
In this episode of Legal AF, hosted by Michael Popak, the discussion centers around former President Donald Trump’s recent lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and the broader implications tied to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Popak delves into the strategic missteps of Trump's legal actions, the media's relentless scrutiny, and the role of Judge Darren Gales in the unfolding legal drama.
Trump’s Lawsuit Against WSJ: A Strategic Misstep
Popak begins by critiquing Trump's decision to sue the WSJ, arguing it was a "dumbest strategic move" aimed at diverting attention from Epstein's predatory activities [00:55]. He contends that the lawsuit serves to distract from the narrative of Trump's alleged cover-up of Epstein's misconduct.
“One of the dumbest strategic moves I've ever seen Donald Trump make was to file this particular lawsuit and take on this particular media empire...” [00:55]
Intended Diversion
Trump's lawsuit targets a WSJ article highlighting a 2003 birthday card linked to Epstein. Popak suggests that Trump hoped to "change the narrative" by disputing the card's authenticity, thereby deflecting criticism and media focus.
“If he thought that was going to work because the Wall Street Journal ran an article on the front page about Donald Trump hand making a birthday card... he thought that by filing the lawsuit... this was gonna change the narrative. Forget it.” [00:55]
Media's Escalating Scrutiny
Following the lawsuit, WSJ's reporting prompted other major outlets like The New York Times to intensify their investigation into Trump's connections with Epstein. Popak notes a "hit a day" approach by the NYT in linking Trump to Epstein's illicit activities.
“New York Times is doing a hit a day against Donald Trump... making it almost impossible to believe that he did not know that Jeffrey Epstein... was also preying on and raping girls.” [00:55]
Judge Darren Gales: A Pivotal Figure
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Judge Darren Gales, assigned to oversee the Trump vs. Murdoch lawsuit. Popak highlights Gales' impeccable reputation and fairness, stressing that his appointment adds complexity to Trump's legal challenges.
“Judge Gales is a phenomenal judge and you may recall that he was the judge that presided over the case that Donald Trump filed against Michael Cohen...” [00:55]
Strategic Choice of Venue
Popak questions Trump's decision to file the lawsuit in Miami, a jurisdiction he describes as "random", rather than a more favorable division like West Palm, which could have potentially swayed the case in Trump's favor.
“Why didn't he do that? You've heard me. And I'll, if not, I'll tell you straight. I think it's because he did not want Cannon for this case in case he has to elevate her...” [00:55]
Implications of the Lawsuit
Popak explores the potential outcomes of the lawsuit, anticipating motions to dismiss based on the defamation claims. He emphasizes that Trump, as the plaintiff, bears the burden of proof and that the case will likely expose more damaging information about Trump's ties to Epstein.
“Donald Trump can't allege actual malice, which is a requirement for a public figure and defamation... He carries the burden of trying to get your complaint to survive a motion to dismiss...” [00:55]
Trump’s Legal Strategies and Challenges
The episode further examines Trump's legal maneuvering, including his reliance on attorney Alejandro Brito and the predictable challenges he faces in court. Popak underscores that Trump’s past legal confrontations, particularly with Michael Cohen, did not end favorably for him, suggesting a similar trajectory in the current case.
“Brito knows Gales well, the lawyer for Donald Trump, because he already lost in front of him, if you will, in the Cohen case.” [00:55]
Future Projections and Ongoing Reporting
Looking ahead, Popak hints at upcoming interviews and analyses, including discussions with Michael Cohen about his experiences with Judge Gales. He assures listeners that Legal AF will continue to provide in-depth coverage and independent reporting on these legal battles.
“I'm going to get Michael Cohen to join me on Legal A to talk about his experience in front of Judge Gales and, and that'll better inform my reporting here on Legal AF...” [00:55]
Conclusion
Michael Popak concludes by reiterating the importance of independent media and legal analysis in holding powerful figures accountable. He encourages listeners to support the Midas Touch Network and stay tuned for further updates on the Trump vs. Murdoch case and its broader implications.
“Corporate media is loping off heads to try to satisfy Donald Trump left and right... We need your support.” [00:55]
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Missteps: Trump's lawsuit against WSJ is viewed as a flawed strategy to divert attention from Epstein-related scandals.
- Media Response: WSJ's reporting triggered a domino effect, intensifying scrutiny from other major media outlets.
- Judicial Oversight: Judge Darren Gales' assignment to the case adds a layer of complexity and impartiality that could challenge Trump's legal efforts.
- Legal Burden: As the plaintiff, Trump faces significant hurdles in proving his defamation claims against WSJ.
- Ongoing Coverage: Legal AF commits to providing continuous, independent analysis and updates on this high-profile case.
Notable Quotes
- “One of the dumbest strategic moves I've ever seen Donald Trump make was to file this particular lawsuit and take on this particular media empire...” [00:55]
- “If he thought that was going to work... he thought that by filing the lawsuit... this was gonna change the narrative. Forget it.” [00:55]
- “New York Times is doing a hit a day against Donald Trump... making it almost impossible to believe that he did not know that Jeffrey Epstein... was also preying on and raping girls.” [00:55]
- “Trump... filed this case in Miami. There's 18 or 20 judges that he could have pulled. He pulled randomly.” [00:55]
- “Donald Trump can't allege actual malice, which is a requirement for a public figure and defamation...” [00:55]
This summary encapsulates the critical analysis and insights shared by Michael Popak in the Legal AF podcast episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the legal dynamics surrounding Trump's lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal and its broader implications within the Epstein narrative.