Morning Wire: Tariff Retaliation Threats & FBI Busts MS-13 Leader | Afternoon Update Summary

Released on April 3, 2025

Hosts:

• John Bickley – Editor-in-Chief, The Daily Wire
• Georgia Howe – Co-host

1. Introduction to Key Topics

John Bickley opens the episode by outlining the main stories of the day:

• Tariff Retaliation Threats: In response to President Trump's new tariffs.
• FBI Arrest of MS-13 Leader: A significant law enforcement action against gang activity.
• New York City Mayor Eric Adams' Reelection Strategy: Shifts in the political landscape following legal developments.

2. Tariff Retaliation and Global Trade Tensions

Georgia Howe delves into the international response to President Trump's reciprocal tariffs policy:

• Affected Nations: The European Union and China have signaled intentions to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports.

• Diplomatic Actions: EU ambassadors are scheduled to convene to discuss countermeasures against the new tariffs.

• U.S. Treasury's Stance: Treasury Secretary Scott Besant advises caution to other nations regarding tariff escalations.

  Notable Quote:

  "My advice to every country right now is do not retaliate. Sit back, take it in, let's see how it goes. Because if you retaliate, there will be escalation. If you don't retaliate, this is the high water mark."
  — Scott Besant, Treasury Secretary [01:05]

Market Impact:

• The announcement of the tariffs triggered significant market volatility.

  • Dow Jones Industrial Average: Dropped over 1,300 points (↓3%).
  • S&P 500: Fell by 3.6%.
  • Nasdaq: Tumbled nearly 4.7%.

• Sector Performance:

  • Loss Leaders: Consumer discretionary, energy, and technology sectors.
  • Gains: Staples sector experienced slight increases.

3. Ford's "From America for America" Campaign

Georgia Howe highlights Ford's strategic move to bolster sales amidst economic uncertainties:

• Campaign Details:
  • Employee Pricing: U.S. shoppers can purchase most 2024 and 2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles below dealer invoice prices until June 2.
  • Exclusions: Select models like the 2025 Expedition, Navigator Raptor, and Super Duty trucks are not included.
  • Electric Vehicles: Buyers receive a free home charger and standard installation through the end of June.

Corporate Statement:

"We make the most cars here, we employ the most, we export the most. And so we here at Ford we're in a good position to address customers' concerns and give them a really great deal on a great vehicle."
— Ford Representative [02:17]

4. FBI's Arrest of High-Ranking MS-13 Member

A significant law enforcement triumph against organized crime was reported:

Pam Bondi, Attorney General, provides comprehensive details:

• Arrestee: Joel Vargas Escobar from El Salvador.

• Charges:

  • Racketeering conspiracy related to 11 murders.
  • Two counts of murder in aid of racketeering.
  • Multiple gun charges.

• Background:

  • Vargas Escobar was illegally residing in the U.S. and had been deported previously in 2018.
  • Allegedly part of MS-13's command structure in Las Vegas and California.

Notable Quote:

"The American people are safer following the arrest of yet another MS-13 leader. This terrorist entered our country illegally and is accused of orchestrating 11 murders under President Trump's leadership. We will not rest until this terrorist organization is completely dismantled and its members are behind bars."
— Pam Bondi, Attorney General [02:49]

5. Severe Weather Impact in the Midwest

Georgia Howe reports on the devastating weather events affecting several states:

• Casualties and Damage:

  • Tennessee: At least six fatalities.
  • Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana: Multiple injuries and significant flood damage.

• Tornado Activity:

  • A massive tornado struck near Lake City, Arkansas; no fatalities reported but extensive property damage.

• Government Response:

  • Governors of Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri have declared states of emergency.

• Forecast:

  • The storm system is projected to move northeast over the weekend, impacting Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York.

6. New York City Mayor Eric Adams' Reelection Strategy

Political dynamics in New York City take center stage as Mayor Eric Adams adjusts his election approach:

• Decision to Run as Independent:

  • Adams announces he will bypass the Democratic primary to focus on the November general election.

• Legal Context:

  • Decision follows a federal judge's dismissal of his corruption case, which was related to accepting payments and gifts from foreign nationals.

• Campaign Implications:

  • Despite legal setbacks, Adams remains in the race but faces polling challenges.

Notable Quote:

"Though I am still a Democrat, I am announcing that I will forego the Democratic primary for mayor and appeal directly to all New Yorkers as an independent candidate in the general election."
— Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City [05:02]

• Polling Situation:
  • Adams lags behind other Democratic contenders, with former Governor Andrew Cuomo leading in popularity polls.

7. Viral Birthday Wish from a 104-Year-Old Veteran

A heartwarming social media moment brings a spotlight on veteran Denver Moore:

• Denver Moore's Appeal:
  • A World War II veteran turned 104 seeks President Trump's attendance at his upcoming birthday party.

Notable Quote:

"President Trump, my name is Denver Moore. I'm going to be 104 in May and I'm inviting you to my birthday party. I got to vote for you again and I hope I can vote for you some more."
— Denver Moore, Ohio Veteran [05:37]

• Social Media Impact:

  • The TikTok video has garnered over 700,000 views.

• Event Plans:

  • Celebration scheduled for May 17th in Canal, Fulton.
  • Nationwide supporters are actively sending well wishes.

8. Conclusion and Additional Stories

John Bickley wraps up the update by mentioning other significant stories covered in earlier segments:

• Trump's Tariff Policy: Unveiling and its economic implications.
• FBI and Corruption Evidence: New developments impacting law enforcement credibility.
• U.S. Pressure on Britain: Efforts to protect free speech amidst international tensions.

He encourages listeners to visit dailywire.com for more detailed coverage and previews the next edition of MORNING Wire.

Note: This summary excludes sponsorship messages and focuses solely on the content discussed during the podcast episode.