Morning Wire Episode Summary: Public Broadcast Clawback & Biden Aides Stonewall | 07.18.25

Release Date: July 18, 2025
Hosts: John Bickley & Georgia Howe
Podcast: Morning Wire by The Daily Wire

1. Senate Moves to Defund NPR and PBS

The episode opens with a significant development in Washington as the Senate narrowly approves a measure to rescind over $1 billion in taxpayer funding allocated to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports NPR and PBS.

Cabot Phillips, Daily Wire’s senior editor, provides an in-depth analysis:

“For decades now, Republicans have promised on the campaign trail to defund NPR and PBS, viewing them as apparatuses of the Democratic Party that shouldn’t receive taxpayer funding. This time, with President Trump emphasizing it as a priority, the Senate voted 51-48 in favor of the measure” (02:19).

Democratic Perspective: Democrats argue that public broadcasting is essential for maintaining a free press and providing vital services, especially in rural areas. Chuck Schumer emphasized:

“When a flood happens, when a tornado touches down, when a hurricane makes landfall, people need immediate up-to-date alerts to stay safe. It’s a matter of life and death” (03:31).

Republican Counterarguments: Republicans contend that the necessity of NPR and PBS in emergency situations is overstated given the multiple available alert systems today. Tim Graham counters:

“All broadcasters are required to broadcast emergency alerts. Today, everybody's going to get emergency alerts on their cell phone. The idea that you need NPR to learn of a flash flood alert is redundant” (04:04).

Furthermore, Republicans highlight the perceived left-leaning bias of NPR and PBS, arguing that public funding should not support partisan media. Tim Graham presented data showing:

“The PBS NewsHour had a ratio of 42 to 1 in using far-right labels compared to far-left ones, indicating a clear bias” (04:44).

Impact on NPR and PBS: With the Senate's approval, the measure now moves to the House, where it is expected to pass. Cabot Phillips notes:

“Even without the rescinded funds, NPR and PBS will survive as taxpayer dollars account for less than half of their overall funding. However, they will need to rely more on private donations” (05:41).

2. Congressional Investigation into Biden’s Competency: Aides Plead the Fifth

The episode shifts focus to the ongoing congressional investigation into former President Joe Biden’s mental fitness for office. Anthony Bernal, a top aide to First Lady Jill Biden, recently testified before the House Oversight Committee but invoked the Fifth Amendment multiple times, refusing to answer critical questions.

Bernal’s Testimony: During his testimony, Bernal consistently declined to respond to inquiries about President Biden’s competency:

“I respectfully decline to answer the question pursuant to my Fifth Amendment rights under the Constitution” (07:36).

This marks the second instance of a White House official pleading the Fifth in this investigation, following Dr. Kevin O'Connor's similar refusal last week.

Georgia Howe elaborates on the implications:

“If Bernal refused to answer questions about Biden's mental decline, it raises significant concerns and skepticism about the President’s fitness” (10:28).

Influence of Anthony Bernal: Bernal has been a central figure in the Biden administration, serving as the chief of staff to First Lady Jill Biden. Alex Thompson of Axios and Jake Tapper of CNN describe Bernal as:

“A keeper of the flame, Biden's eyes and ears, a protector of myth” (09:04).

His influence extends to critical decision-making processes, making his refusal to testify particularly impactful.

Potential for Compelling Testimony: The Oversight Committee has the option to compel Bernal and Dr. O'Connor to testify by offering immunity from prosecution, which would prevent them from invoking the Fifth Amendment.

Committee Leadership’s Stance: James Comer, Oversight Committee Chairman, expressed determination to uncover the truth:

“If he said under oath that Joe Biden was not in mental decline, then there's a very good likelihood that he's lying” (10:28).

There is also consideration to subpoena Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, which could significantly escalate the investigation.

3. Federal Reserve’s Interest Rate Decision Amid Trump-Powell Tensions

The final segment delves into the Federal Reserve's upcoming interest rate vote, set against a backdrop of tension between President Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

Interview with Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee:

Economic Overview: Goolsbee discusses the latest economic indicators, noting that inflation remains relatively steady with minor fluctuations:

“Inflation is a bit of a mixed bag. While we’ve had mild readings recently, tariffs might slightly increase prices on physical goods” (11:35).

He remains optimistic about the economic trajectory, highlighting strong employment figures and steady growth despite some warning signs.

Trump-Powell Feud: The contentious relationship between President Trump and Jerome Powell centers on the President’s calls for interest rate cuts. Goolsbee emphasizes the importance of Federal Reserve independence:

“The reason all rich countries have an independent central bank is to avoid higher inflation and unemployment. Questioning the Fed’s independence can lead to negative economic outcomes” (12:37).

Interest Rate Outlook: When asked about potential rate cuts, Goolsbee cautiously anticipates:

“Before April 2, my view was that we are close to stable full employment and 2% inflation. Rates could go down more over the next year, despite some policy challenges” (14:35).

Georgia Howe’s Perspective: She underscores the necessity of the Fed adhering to its dual mandate of stabilizing prices and maximizing employment:

“Decisions about interest rates should be rooted in economic conditions, not political pressure” (13:35).

Fed’s Communication Policy: Goolsbee mentions that the Fed will release minutes and transcripts post-meeting, which will provide transparency into their decision-making process.

Conclusion

In this episode of Morning Wire, John Bickley and Georgia Howe cover pivotal issues shaping the national landscape:

1. The Senate's decisive move to defund NPR and PBS reflects long-standing Republican efforts to curb what they perceive as partisan media influence. The outcome could significantly alter the funding and operation of these public broadcasters.

2. The ongoing congressional investigation into President Biden’s mental fitness continues to gain momentum as top aides like Anthony Bernal invoke the Fifth Amendment, raising questions about transparency and accountability within the administration.

3. Economic policies and Federal Reserve decisions remain in the spotlight amid political pressures, particularly the strained relationship between President Trump and Jerome Powell. The insights from Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee provide a nuanced view of potential interest rate adjustments and the importance of maintaining central bank independence.

This comprehensive coverage ensures listeners are well-informed about the latest developments in politics, governance, and economic policy.

Notable Quotes:

• "All broadcasters are required to broadcast emergency alerts. Today, everybody's going to get emergency alerts on their cell phone." — Tim Graham (04:04)

• "If you plead the Fifth to avoid self-incrimination, and you say a president is fit when evidence suggests otherwise, it raises serious doubts." — Georgia Howe (10:28)

• "The Fed's independence is crucial to prevent higher inflation and unemployment." — Georgia Howe (12:37)

This summary captures the essential discussions and insights from the July 18, 2025 episode of Morning Wire, providing a comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the episode.