Next Up with Mark Halperin: "Why the Epstein Story is Sticking, Ro Khanna’s Quest for Answers, and What the Media is Ignoring"
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Host: MK Media

Introduction and Overview

In this episode of Next Up with Mark Halperin, host Mark Halperin delves into the persistent intrigue surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case, discussing its political ramifications and the media's role in shaping the narrative. Halperin introduces Congressman Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California, who has emerged as a leading advocate for transparency regarding Epstein-related materials. The episode also explores Tulsi Gabbard’s controversial allegations against former President Barack Obama and examines the broader implications for American politics.

Mark Halperin’s Monologue: The Epstein-Tulsi Gabbard Connection

[00:02 - 26:35]

Mark Halperin begins by expressing his confusion over the enduring prominence of the Epstein story and Tulsi Gabbard’s recent accusations against Barack Obama. He posits a potential connection involving Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, questioning whether Trump is attempting to divert attention due to fear of emerging incriminating details.

Notable Quote:
"There's something going on with Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. Is it what critics say, which is he's terrified of what might come out about him, or is it simpler than that?"
— Mark Halperin [05:45]

Halperin highlights the bipartisan effort led by Congressman Ro Khanna and Republican co-sponsors like Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene to force the release of Epstein-related documents. He emphasizes the significance of making these materials public to address public demand for accountability among elites.

Interview with Congressman Ro Khanna

[29:06 - 45:47]

Ro Khanna discusses his unexpected emergence as a key figure in pushing for transparency on the Epstein case. He explains that his longstanding commitment to political reform and transparency naturally led him to champion this issue. Khanna underscores the symbolic importance of the Epstein story in representing broader concerns about elite accountability and systemic corruption.

Key Points:

• Symbolism of Epstein Case:
  "It's become a symbol for transparency... whether our country is protecting the rich and powerful at the expense of ordinary people."
  — Ro Khanna [33:12]

• Bipartisan Support and Challenges:
  Khanna notes the unusual bipartisan support, including 11 Republicans, and expresses disappointment in Speaker Mike Johnson's obstruction, attributing it to pressure from the White House.

• Impact on Trust in Government:
  He connects the Epstein case to broader societal issues of trust and accountability, emphasizing that resolving this case is crucial for restoring faith in governmental institutions.

Notable Quote:
"If we don't have basic trust in government, how are you going to support my economic patriotism or certainly or Medicare for all when people don't trust the government to be working for them?"
— Ro Khanna [44:10]

Discussion with Botjungar Sargon and Dan Turntine

[48:24 - 72:15]

After the interview, Halperin engages with his colleagues Botjungar Sargon and Dan Turntine to dissect the connections between the Epstein narrative and Tulsi Gabbard’s accusations against Barack Obama.

Key Topics:

1. Tulsi Gabbard’s Accusations:
   Sargon and Turntine express skepticism regarding the timing and motivations behind Gabbard’s allegations, suggesting potential political maneuvering to divert attention from the Epstein story.

   Notable Quote:
   "The timing certainly seems suspicious."
   — Botjungar Sargon [50:27]

2. Impact of Russiagate:
   The conversation shifts to the Russiagate scandal, with Turntine criticizing the narrative as a distraction orchestrated by elites to undermine Trump’s populist movement.

   Notable Quote:
   "The idea that this is a smoking gun actually undermines the crime of Russiagate."
   — Botjungar Sargon [56:20]

3. Trump’s Trade Deal with Japan:
   Turntine highlights a significant but underreported accomplishment of the Trump administration—a trade deal with Japan that could have lasting positive impacts on American families.

   Notable Quote:
   "It's an extraordinary deal that previous presidents wouldn't even dream to try for it."
   — Dan Turntine [66:34]

4. Rapid Round and Final Thoughts:
   The segment concludes with a rapid-fire round where colleagues share their preferences and opinions on political figures, reflecting the candid and often contentious dynamics within the conversation.

Conclusion

Mark Halperin wraps up the episode by affirming the ongoing significance of the Epstein story and its entanglement with high-profile political figures. He underscores the necessity for unbiased and thorough media coverage to uncover the truth and restore public trust in government institutions.

Final Quote:
"I want to talk about the origins of the relationship. I would ask him about what he liked about Jeffrey Epstein, why did they like spending time together, and then clear the air about what he knew about Epstein's conduct."
— Mark Halperin [45:50]

Key Takeaways

• Bipartisan Efforts for Transparency: Congressman Ro Khanna leads a diverse coalition pushing for the release of Epstein-related documents, symbolizing broader demands for accountability among elites.

• Political Diversions and Accusations: Tulsi Gabbard’s allegations against Barack Obama are scrutinized as potential distractions from the Epstein narrative, raising questions about underlying political strategies.

• Media’s Role: The episode emphasizes the media’s critical role in providing unbiased coverage to ensure that significant stories like Epstein’s do not fade away unnoticed.

• Undervalued Political Achievements: Discussions highlight notable but underreported accomplishments, such as Trump’s trade deal with Japan, suggesting a need for balanced recognition of political successes.

Listeners who missed this episode can catch all the detailed discussions and insights by subscribing to Next Up with Mark Halperin on their preferred podcast platform or watching it on YouTube. Stay informed with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.