PBD Podcast Ep. 687 Summary: Lee Zeldin on Epstein Claim, Trump & Mamdani, Real Cloud Seeding, and EPA Leadership

Date: November 20, 2025
Host: Patrick Bet-David (PBD)
Guest: Rep. Lee Zeldin, EPA Administrator, former NY Congressman, gubernatorial candidate

Main Theme

This episode features an in-depth interview with Lee Zeldin, currently serving as EPA Administrator. The discussion pivots between Zeldin’s recent involvement in a viral controversy over an Epstein donor claim, the political dynamics surrounding New York City's new mayor and his upcoming meeting with President Trump, the realities and misconceptions around cloud seeding and weather manipulation, and substantial insights into modern U.S. energy, environment, and regulatory policy.

1. Jasmine Crockett's "Epstein Donor" Claim: Setting the Record Straight

Key Discussion Points

Viral Accusation: Rep. Jasmine Crockett claimed at a House hearing that Zeldin (and others) received donations from Jeffrey Epstein.
The Reality: Zeldin and the host break down that FEC records show a physician named Jeffrey Epstein donated after the financier’s death, making the claim baseless.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“The first reaction was like, I'm pretty sure that Jeffrey Epstein never donated to me.... The date of the donation is after that Jeffrey Epstein was dead.” (03:14)
Host on the ridiculousness:
“Which doctor? Dr. Jeffrey Epstein. ... That guy has to change some part of his name.” (04:06)
On Crockett’s defense:
“If you don't know yet, then you do more research before you go to the floor of the House of Representatives.” – Zeldin (07:12)

Memorable Moments

The Office Space “Michael Bolton” callback, underscoring how people with notorious names bear unfair burdens (04:27).
Crockett’s unrepentant media appearances and her “20-minute” Google search rationale (05:18-07:12).

Timestamps:

[02:34] Crockett’s original statement
[03:14] Zeldin’s reaction
[04:06-04:27] Comic relief on shared names
[05:18] Crockett’s CNN interview defense
[07:12] Zeldin’s advice for lawmakers

2. Trump–Mamdani NYC Summit and NY Politics

Key Discussion Points

Context: Zoran Kwame Mamdani recently won NYC’s mayoral race and is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House. Tension rises from his openly leftist platform.
Trump’s Approach: Zeldin, with close knowledge of Trump, explains Trump’s deep investment in NYC’s future and outlines his expectations: “He genuinely wants to help, but don’t expect this president to play along with the destruction of the city.” (13:00)
Political Strategy: Discussion on Mamdani’s priorities—whether he’s seeking real city improvements or playing to the primary base and AOC’s far-left movement.
Impact of Tax and Policy Shifts: Concerns arise about raising taxes driving business and high earners out of NY. The “billionaire flight” scenario (14:00-15:00).

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“What’s more important to Mamdani? Is it to get reelected ...or is his priority, right now, the future of New York City? If it’s the latter, he needs President Trump a lot.” (16:20)
On Trump's accessibility:
“President Trump…is so accessible and a great listener. There’s a great opportunity for Mamdani to come in to state a case...” (18:36)
Host on the optics:
“If all of a sudden now there seems to be mushy, mushy friendly, they're going to be like, wait a minute. You. You're a traitor.” (24:03)

Memorable Moments

Speculation on whether AOC will ever meet with Trump.
Parallel drawn between Mamdani and Zelensky as politicians savvy about narrative and optics.
The “Full Schumer” and “Full Zeldin” stories about rigorous political campaigning (35:00).

Timestamps:

[11:44] Zeldin on Trump’s personal stake in NYC
[16:20] Strategic crossroads for Mamdani
[18:36-20:28] Trump as coalition-builder
[24:03-25:32] Political optics of Mamdani–Trump meeting

3. Hochul, Stefanik & the Battle for NY’s Governor’s Seat

Key Discussion Points

2022 Governor’s Race Recap: Zeldin discusses nearly beating Hochul (lost by 5.7%), significant given NY’s Democratic tilt.
Current Political Landscape: Elise Stefanik’s challenge lags in recent polling, highlighting the uphill battle for Republicans in NY State.
Lessons: Effective messaging on voters’ actual top issues (crime, economy), not just the politician’s chosen topics.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“If we get more than 35% of the vote in New York City...it starts to become impossible to lose.” (32:40)
On messaging:
“If you asked me at the end of the campaign, what are the top three issues? ...I would have said, whatever the top three issues are of the people.” (34:33)
Hochul’s debate gaffe:
“I don't know why that's so important to you.” [re: locking up criminals] (36:42)

Memorable Moments

Playing Hochul’s debate clip (36:14–37:34), showing her seeming disconnect from public safety concerns.

Timestamps:

[32:40] Zeldin explains NYC electoral math
[36:14] Hochul's crime debate clip

4. Affordability, Partisan Divides, and MAGA Social Media Influence

Key Discussion Points

Affordability as a New Litmus Test: Soaring loan rejection impact, creative mortgage solutions (50-year, mortgage portability) as election issues.
MAGA Social Media Factions: Zeldin acknowledges rising influence of conservative digital voices, especially for youth, and the need for Republican leaders to meet audiences where they are.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We really need to do a better job...meeting them where they are...or else the wrong answers start winning.” (52:40)
On young voters:
“Politics is a sport today, ...a contact sport like never before.” – Host (53:27)

Timestamps:

[40:36] Economic anxiety’s impact on 2026, 2028
[52:40–53:27] Social media’s growing electoral power

5. EPA Priorities: Deregulation, Environmental Goals & Wildfire Response

Key Discussion Points

Zeldin’s EPA Mandate: Cooperative federalism, deregulation, empowering states for land/air/water management, unprecedented budget cutting.
Operational Reforms: $30B in annual savings, closing EPA Museum, reducing staff from 16,000 to 12,500, canceling grants, media subs, and inefficient programs.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We [Trump EPA] choose to both protect the environment and grow the economy. We choose both...We will do more deregulation in one year than entire federal governments ...have done across all agencies combined.” (57:34)
On California wildfires:
“The federal government has done everything...the slow rolling of all permits ...it's bullshit.” (62:00, 66:33)

Memorable Moments

Zeldin vents on slow state/local permit processes in CA, calls them “bullshit,” and discusses potential dangers if federal government overreaches into local zoning (69:14–71:15).

Timestamps:

[54:24–57:34] Zeldin’s rundown of EPA pillars, deregulation
[62:00] CA wildfire response and frustration with regulations
[69:14–71:15] Local vs. federal authority debate

6. Cloud Seeding and Geoengineering: Reality vs. Conspiracy

Key Discussion Points

Cloud Seeding is Real: Multiple states legalize it; it's not a conspiracy, but Zeldin warns against “playing God with the weather.”
Concerns: Foreign adversaries could use climate tech for election interference.
Geoengineering Oversight: Calls for accurate, honest communication about what’s real, what’s not.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“Cloud seeding is real. It’s been legalized in a bunch of United States states. ...It is not a conspiracy theory.” (87:39–87:46)
“I do not agree at all with the idea that humans should be playing God with the weather.” (74:03)
On public communication:
“If 10% of your argument is not accurate, you will undermine the other 90 to 95%... Just don’t do that.” (87:44)

Memorable Moments

Discussion about Iran’s and Dubai’s weather modification efforts—leading to massive flooding (85:25–87:39).
Zeldin’s commitment to keep answering public questions transparently despite government reluctance in the past.

Timestamps:

[74:03–77:02] Cloud seeding legality and science
[85:25–87:39] Weather warfare, geoengineering risks

7. The Case for Nuclear and American Energy Dominance

Key Discussion Points

America Needs More Baseload Energy: Nuclear, natural gas, and smart grid integration.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Emerging projects, environmental efficiencies.
Recycling Advances & US Independence: Advanced plastic recycling, rare earth mining, and building domestic supply chain autonomy.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We need a lot more baseload power in this country and we need more nuclear... The people who are talking about wind...as a substitute for baseload power are just so out of touch.” (93:42)

Timestamps:

[93:42–98:40] Nuclear, AI, and energy infrastructure

8. Leadership Reflections: Trump’s Work Ethic, Negotiation Tips

Key Discussion Points

Trump’s Style: Relentless energy, accessibility, and expectation for competence and loyalty.
Negotiating with Trump: Authenticity and substance matter; do not lead with confrontation unless you want it.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“He is...the alpha male in every room... If you have a good idea, he’s going to hear you out. If it’s terrible, he’ll let you know.” (104:31)

Timestamps:

[100:52–106:44] Trump stories and negotiating style

9. Closing: Recommendations, Faith, and Family

Movie Suggestion: Host recommends “Truth and Treason” to Zeldin and family, given Zeldin’s interfaith background.
Acknowledgments: Mutual respect; audience support noted.

Key Takeaways

Viral accusations can quickly unravel with a bit of due diligence—and unintended humor when names overlap.
Trump’s leadership style and accessibility are distinct, demanding both strategic acumen and genuine concern from counterparts.
Issues like crime, affordability, and energy resonate across electoral cycles; effective messaging requires listening to constituents.
Geoengineering and weather modification are no longer fringe conspiracy topics; they are real policy concerns with national security implications.
The EPA under Zeldin and Trump is actively cutting budget, deregulating, and seeking cooperative federalism.
Politics is increasingly shaped by online influencers and youth engagement, making digital voice cohesion crucial for future victories.

Select Quote Highlights

“Cloud seeding is real. It’s been legalized in a bunch of United States states... It is not a conspiracy theory.”
— Lee Zeldin (87:39)

“He is the alpha male in every room... If you sit down at that table, and you want to work with him? He’s ready to help.”
— Lee Zeldin, on negotiating with Trump (104:31)

"The President does not sleep. He does not stop working for the American public."
— Lee Zeldin (100:52)

End of Summary

PBD Podcast Ep. 687 Summary: Lee Zeldin on Epstein Claim, Trump & Mamdani, Real Cloud Seeding, and EPA Leadership

Date: November 20, 2025
Host: Patrick Bet-David (PBD)
Guest: Rep. Lee Zeldin, EPA Administrator, former NY Congressman, gubernatorial candidate

Main Theme

1. Jasmine Crockett's "Epstein Donor" Claim: Setting the Record Straight

Key Discussion Points

Viral Accusation: Rep. Jasmine Crockett claimed at a House hearing that Zeldin (and others) received donations from Jeffrey Epstein.
The Reality: Zeldin and the host break down that FEC records show a physician named Jeffrey Epstein donated after the financier’s death, making the claim baseless.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“The first reaction was like, I'm pretty sure that Jeffrey Epstein never donated to me.... The date of the donation is after that Jeffrey Epstein was dead.” (03:14)
Host on the ridiculousness:
“Which doctor? Dr. Jeffrey Epstein. ... That guy has to change some part of his name.” (04:06)
On Crockett’s defense:
“If you don't know yet, then you do more research before you go to the floor of the House of Representatives.” – Zeldin (07:12)

Memorable Moments

The Office Space “Michael Bolton” callback, underscoring how people with notorious names bear unfair burdens (04:27).
Crockett’s unrepentant media appearances and her “20-minute” Google search rationale (05:18-07:12).

Timestamps:

[02:34] Crockett’s original statement
[03:14] Zeldin’s reaction
[04:06-04:27] Comic relief on shared names
[05:18] Crockett’s CNN interview defense
[07:12] Zeldin’s advice for lawmakers

2. Trump–Mamdani NYC Summit and NY Politics

Key Discussion Points

Context: Zoran Kwame Mamdani recently won NYC’s mayoral race and is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House. Tension rises from his openly leftist platform.
Trump’s Approach: Zeldin, with close knowledge of Trump, explains Trump’s deep investment in NYC’s future and outlines his expectations: “He genuinely wants to help, but don’t expect this president to play along with the destruction of the city.” (13:00)
Political Strategy: Discussion on Mamdani’s priorities—whether he’s seeking real city improvements or playing to the primary base and AOC’s far-left movement.
Impact of Tax and Policy Shifts: Concerns arise about raising taxes driving business and high earners out of NY. The “billionaire flight” scenario (14:00-15:00).

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“What’s more important to Mamdani? Is it to get reelected ...or is his priority, right now, the future of New York City? If it’s the latter, he needs President Trump a lot.” (16:20)
On Trump's accessibility:
“President Trump…is so accessible and a great listener. There’s a great opportunity for Mamdani to come in to state a case...” (18:36)
Host on the optics:
“If all of a sudden now there seems to be mushy, mushy friendly, they're going to be like, wait a minute. You. You're a traitor.” (24:03)

Memorable Moments

Speculation on whether AOC will ever meet with Trump.
Parallel drawn between Mamdani and Zelensky as politicians savvy about narrative and optics.
The “Full Schumer” and “Full Zeldin” stories about rigorous political campaigning (35:00).

Timestamps:

[11:44] Zeldin on Trump’s personal stake in NYC
[16:20] Strategic crossroads for Mamdani
[18:36-20:28] Trump as coalition-builder
[24:03-25:32] Political optics of Mamdani–Trump meeting

3. Hochul, Stefanik & the Battle for NY’s Governor’s Seat

Key Discussion Points

2022 Governor’s Race Recap: Zeldin discusses nearly beating Hochul (lost by 5.7%), significant given NY’s Democratic tilt.
Current Political Landscape: Elise Stefanik’s challenge lags in recent polling, highlighting the uphill battle for Republicans in NY State.
Lessons: Effective messaging on voters’ actual top issues (crime, economy), not just the politician’s chosen topics.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“If we get more than 35% of the vote in New York City...it starts to become impossible to lose.” (32:40)
On messaging:
“If you asked me at the end of the campaign, what are the top three issues? ...I would have said, whatever the top three issues are of the people.” (34:33)
Hochul’s debate gaffe:
“I don't know why that's so important to you.” [re: locking up criminals] (36:42)

Memorable Moments

Playing Hochul’s debate clip (36:14–37:34), showing her seeming disconnect from public safety concerns.

Timestamps:

[32:40] Zeldin explains NYC electoral math
[36:14] Hochul's crime debate clip

4. Affordability, Partisan Divides, and MAGA Social Media Influence

Key Discussion Points

Affordability as a New Litmus Test: Soaring loan rejection impact, creative mortgage solutions (50-year, mortgage portability) as election issues.
MAGA Social Media Factions: Zeldin acknowledges rising influence of conservative digital voices, especially for youth, and the need for Republican leaders to meet audiences where they are.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We really need to do a better job...meeting them where they are...or else the wrong answers start winning.” (52:40)
On young voters:
“Politics is a sport today, ...a contact sport like never before.” – Host (53:27)

Timestamps:

[40:36] Economic anxiety’s impact on 2026, 2028
[52:40–53:27] Social media’s growing electoral power

5. EPA Priorities: Deregulation, Environmental Goals & Wildfire Response

Key Discussion Points

Zeldin’s EPA Mandate: Cooperative federalism, deregulation, empowering states for land/air/water management, unprecedented budget cutting.
Operational Reforms: $30B in annual savings, closing EPA Museum, reducing staff from 16,000 to 12,500, canceling grants, media subs, and inefficient programs.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We [Trump EPA] choose to both protect the environment and grow the economy. We choose both...We will do more deregulation in one year than entire federal governments ...have done across all agencies combined.” (57:34)
On California wildfires:
“The federal government has done everything...the slow rolling of all permits ...it's bullshit.” (62:00, 66:33)

Memorable Moments

Zeldin vents on slow state/local permit processes in CA, calls them “bullshit,” and discusses potential dangers if federal government overreaches into local zoning (69:14–71:15).

Timestamps:

[54:24–57:34] Zeldin’s rundown of EPA pillars, deregulation
[62:00] CA wildfire response and frustration with regulations
[69:14–71:15] Local vs. federal authority debate

6. Cloud Seeding and Geoengineering: Reality vs. Conspiracy

Key Discussion Points

Cloud Seeding is Real: Multiple states legalize it; it's not a conspiracy, but Zeldin warns against “playing God with the weather.”
Concerns: Foreign adversaries could use climate tech for election interference.
Geoengineering Oversight: Calls for accurate, honest communication about what’s real, what’s not.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“Cloud seeding is real. It’s been legalized in a bunch of United States states. ...It is not a conspiracy theory.” (87:39–87:46)
“I do not agree at all with the idea that humans should be playing God with the weather.” (74:03)
On public communication:
“If 10% of your argument is not accurate, you will undermine the other 90 to 95%... Just don’t do that.” (87:44)

Memorable Moments

Discussion about Iran’s and Dubai’s weather modification efforts—leading to massive flooding (85:25–87:39).
Zeldin’s commitment to keep answering public questions transparently despite government reluctance in the past.

Timestamps:

[74:03–77:02] Cloud seeding legality and science
[85:25–87:39] Weather warfare, geoengineering risks

7. The Case for Nuclear and American Energy Dominance

Key Discussion Points

America Needs More Baseload Energy: Nuclear, natural gas, and smart grid integration.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Emerging projects, environmental efficiencies.
Recycling Advances & US Independence: Advanced plastic recycling, rare earth mining, and building domestic supply chain autonomy.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“We need a lot more baseload power in this country and we need more nuclear... The people who are talking about wind...as a substitute for baseload power are just so out of touch.” (93:42)

Timestamps:

[93:42–98:40] Nuclear, AI, and energy infrastructure

8. Leadership Reflections: Trump’s Work Ethic, Negotiation Tips

Key Discussion Points

Trump’s Style: Relentless energy, accessibility, and expectation for competence and loyalty.
Negotiating with Trump: Authenticity and substance matter; do not lead with confrontation unless you want it.

Notable Quotes

Zeldin:
“He is...the alpha male in every room... If you have a good idea, he’s going to hear you out. If it’s terrible, he’ll let you know.” (104:31)

Timestamps:

[100:52–106:44] Trump stories and negotiating style

9. Closing: Recommendations, Faith, and Family

Movie Suggestion: Host recommends “Truth and Treason” to Zeldin and family, given Zeldin’s interfaith background.
Acknowledgments: Mutual respect; audience support noted.

Key Takeaways

Viral accusations can quickly unravel with a bit of due diligence—and unintended humor when names overlap.
Trump’s leadership style and accessibility are distinct, demanding both strategic acumen and genuine concern from counterparts.
Issues like crime, affordability, and energy resonate across electoral cycles; effective messaging requires listening to constituents.
Geoengineering and weather modification are no longer fringe conspiracy topics; they are real policy concerns with national security implications.
The EPA under Zeldin and Trump is actively cutting budget, deregulating, and seeking cooperative federalism.
Politics is increasingly shaped by online influencers and youth engagement, making digital voice cohesion crucial for future victories.

Select Quote Highlights

“Cloud seeding is real. It’s been legalized in a bunch of United States states... It is not a conspiracy theory.”
— Lee Zeldin (87:39)

“He is the alpha male in every room... If you sit down at that table, and you want to work with him? He’s ready to help.”
— Lee Zeldin, on negotiating with Trump (104:31)

"The President does not sleep. He does not stop working for the American public."
— Lee Zeldin (100:52)

End of Summary

Lee Zeldin: Jasmine Crockett's Epstein Claim, Trump Meets Mamdani + Cloud Seeding Is REAL! | PBD Podcast | Ep. 687

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Summary

PBD Podcast Ep. 687 Summary: Lee Zeldin on Epstein Claim, Trump & Mamdani, Real Cloud Seeding, and EPA Leadership

Main Theme

1. Jasmine Crockett's "Epstein Donor" Claim: Setting the Record Straight

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

2. Trump–Mamdani NYC Summit and NY Politics

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

3. Hochul, Stefanik & the Battle for NY’s Governor’s Seat

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

4. Affordability, Partisan Divides, and MAGA Social Media Influence

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

5. EPA Priorities: Deregulation, Environmental Goals & Wildfire Response

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

6. Cloud Seeding and Geoengineering: Reality vs. Conspiracy

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

7. The Case for Nuclear and American Energy Dominance

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

8. Leadership Reflections: Trump’s Work Ethic, Negotiation Tips

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

9. Closing: Recommendations, Faith, and Family

Key Takeaways

Select Quote Highlights

Summary

PBD Podcast Ep. 687 Summary: Lee Zeldin on Epstein Claim, Trump & Mamdani, Real Cloud Seeding, and EPA Leadership

Main Theme

1. Jasmine Crockett's "Epstein Donor" Claim: Setting the Record Straight

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

2. Trump–Mamdani NYC Summit and NY Politics

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

3. Hochul, Stefanik & the Battle for NY’s Governor’s Seat

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

4. Affordability, Partisan Divides, and MAGA Social Media Influence

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

5. EPA Priorities: Deregulation, Environmental Goals & Wildfire Response

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

6. Cloud Seeding and Geoengineering: Reality vs. Conspiracy

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

Memorable Moments

7. The Case for Nuclear and American Energy Dominance

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

8. Leadership Reflections: Trump’s Work Ethic, Negotiation Tips

Key Discussion Points

Notable Quotes

9. Closing: Recommendations, Faith, and Family

Key Takeaways

Select Quote Highlights