On the Media: "Indicted (again)" – A Comprehensive Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: On the Media
• Host/Author: WNYC Studios
• Description: The Peabody Award-winning podcast explores the intricacies of media production, scrutinizes media coverage of major stories, and delves into the underlying political narratives shaping our consumption of news.
• Episode: Indicted (again)
• Release Date: June 16, 2023

Introduction

In the "Indicted (again)" episode of On the Media, hosts Brooke Gladstone and James Fallows dissect the recent indictment of former President Donald Trump related to his handling of classified documents. Released on June 16, 2023, the episode delves deep into the legal implications, media coverage, and the broader political climate surrounding the case.

Trump’s Indictment and Legal Context

Brooke Gladstone opens the discussion by highlighting Trump's arraignment on charges under the Espionage and Obstruction statutes, which could potentially result in decades of imprisonment (00:02). James Fallows notes that Trump pleaded not guilty to 37 federal charges via his attorney, Todd Blanche (02:26).

Eric Levitz, a guest on the episode, provides context by comparing Trump's indictment to that of Hillary Clinton and other past officials who handled classified information. He emphasizes that unlike Trump, these individuals were not prosecuted despite similar or worse conduct:

"The DOJ chose not to bring charges in a single one of those mishandlings of classified documents. Not a single count. He was given a chance... like, look, you've been holding onto this stuff for months, but if you just give them back now, we're not going to bring charges." (08:21)

Media Coverage and Political Narratives

The hosts discuss how major networks like CNN and MSNBC selectively broadcast Trump's responses, often censoring his statements to fit their narratives. Brooke Gladstone points out that while Trump maintains his innocence, media channels frame his actions within a broader context of political maneuvering:

"Trump has now documented resistance to returning them sets him apart... he continues to say he, quote, did everything right." (02:55)

James Fallows and Eric Levitz explore the double standards in media and political responses, highlighting that while Trump faces legal repercussions, figures like Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton have not been similarly prosecuted. Levitz provides an illustrative comparison, recounting the case of Asia Janay Leverello, who served three months for mishandling classified documents, in contrast to Trump's lenient treatment.

Fascism and the Slow Civil War

A significant portion of the episode features a discussion with Jeff Charlotte, author of Scenes from a Slow Civil War. Charlotte and Fallows examine the rise of fascist elements within American society, arguing that a powerful minority is fostering a climate conducive to fascism. Charlotte describes the phenomenon as:

"A great mass of fringe which is making the fabric of what I think we can plausibly and without hyperbola argue is an American fascist movement now." (16:13)

Charlotte elaborates on how political rhetoric, particularly from Trump, has transformed dissent and hate into a form of "patriotic love," effectively mobilizing support for extremist ideologies. He draws parallels to historical instances of fascism, emphasizing the role of "militant eroticism" and performative violence in cultivating a fascist culture.

"The cult of personality, the idea that a strongman leader alone can fix it... a persecuted in-group, a mysterious out-group... a rhetoric of violence, but of pleasure and violence." (27:41)

Election Tropes and Media Influence

The conversation shifts to the role of media in shaping political narratives, specifically focusing on recurring tropes used during elections. Eric Levitz critiques the media's reliance on tropes like the "new savior," "forgotten voters," and the notion that "this is the most important election ever." He argues that these narratives oversimplify complex electoral dynamics and often fail to capture the underlying societal shifts.

Levitz reflects on historical campaigns, such as John F. Kennedy’s charismatic appeal and Jimmy Carter’s honest rhetoric, illustrating how media narratives have long favored candidates who fit certain archetypes. He warns that these tropes can distort public perception and obscure the real issues at stake.

"America is in trouble and always has been. And the question is, how does the quotient and the forces leading to trouble match the forces that are resisting that trouble?" (28:35)

The Ongoing Struggle and the Role of Media

In concluding segments, Levitz and Charlotte discuss the persistent nature of societal struggles and the media's role in either highlighting or obscuring these conflicts. They emphasize that democracy requires active engagement and that media should focus on fostering understanding rather than perpetuating fear or sensationalism.

"Democracy is not something you have. You have to actually go and do it. Right. I think about that group, the Three Percenters... fascism. It's a minority, but it has a hold of more than 3%." (29:09)

Charlotte asserts that media must move beyond crisis narratives to recognize the ongoing nature of societal challenges, advocating for a more nuanced and proactive approach to journalism.

Conclusion

The "Indicted (again)" episode of On the Media provides a thorough examination of Donald Trump's legal issues, the media's role in shaping political narratives, and the broader implications for American democracy. Through incisive analysis and expert commentary, Gladstone and Fallows shed light on the complexities of media influence, the dangers of political extremism, and the enduring struggles within the nation's political landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Donald Trump on Indictment:

  "Today we witness the most evil and heinous abuse of power in the history of our country..." (03:24)

• Jeff Charlotte on Fascism:

  "This is a reference to driving out the money changers. Jesus driving out the money changers..." (21:12)

• James Fallows on Trump’s Rhetoric:

  "This is how Trump uses rallies. He is not a leader. He's riding this undertow." (32:10)

Timestamps:

• 00:02 – Introduction to Trump’s indictment
• 02:26 – Trump's plea and legal charges
• 02:55 – Comparison to other officials
• 08:21 – Analysis of DOJ’s leniency towards Trump
• 16:13 – Rise of American fascism
• 27:41 – Characteristics of fascist rhetoric
• 28:35 – Persistent societal struggles
• 29:09 – Importance of active democracy
• 32:10 – Trump’s utilization of political undertow

This episode serves as a critical resource for understanding the intersection of media, politics, and societal shifts in contemporary America, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on pressing national issues.