Dark Money Under Scrutiny, Media Lies on China & Democratic Disarray

Summary

The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson Episode: Dark Money Under Scrutiny, Media Lies on China & Democratic Disarray Release Date: April 25, 2025

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Introduction

In the April 25, 2025, episode of The 47 Morning Update hosted by Ben Ferguson, three pivotal political narratives dominate the discourse: President Donald Trump's recent directive to investigate the Democratic fundraising platform ActBlue, the media's portrayal of U.S.-China trade negotiations, and significant turmoil within the Democratic Party. This detailed summary delves into each of these topics, highlighting key discussions, insights, and notable quotes from the episode.

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1. Trump Orders Investigation into ActBlue

Overview: Ben Ferguson opens the episode by addressing President Trump’s executive order directing the Justice Department to investigate ActBlue, a prominent Democratic fundraising platform. This move has sparked significant controversy and backlash from Democratic leaders who view it as an unlawful attack on democratic processes.

Key Points:

• Executive Order Details: President Trump has tasked Attorney General Pam Bondi, in consultation with the Treasury Department, to probe allegations that ActBlue facilitated illegal campaign donations, including straw and foreign contributions, which are against federal law. The investigation is mandated to report findings within 180 days.

  Notable Quote:

  "President Donald Trump has ordered the Justice Department moments ago to investigate the Democratic Party's top fundraising platform." ([00:30])

• Reaction from Democrats: Democratic leaders, including the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee chairwoman and the Democratic National Committee chair, have condemned the executive order. They describe it as part of a broader White House strategy to suppress political opposition.

  Notable Quote:

  "Democrats, of course, are condemning the move and ActBlue called it an impressive use of power by the White House." ([05:00])

• GOP Support: The Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Watley, welcomed the investigation, labeling ActBlue’s practices as a "dark money scam" that has persisted for too long.

• Impact on Democracy: Ferguson emphasizes that Trump’s actions aim to ensure adherence to legal campaign financing, portraying ActBlue’s potential violations as a threat to American democracy.

Analysis: Ferguson suggests that this investigation could unearth more significant issues within Democratic fundraising practices, potentially reshaping the political landscape. He underscores the historical reliance of Democrats on ActBlue for small donor contributions and anticipates further developments as the investigation unfolds.

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2. Media Misinformation on U.S.-China Trade Talks

Overview: The second segment critiques mainstream media narratives regarding the status of trade negotiations between the United States and China. Ferguson argues that the media is downplaying Trump's progress in negotiating favorable trade deals, thereby undermining the President's efforts.

Key Points:

• Contrasting Narratives: While China officially denies ongoing trade talks, Trump asserts that negotiations are indeed in progress, dismissing Chinese claims as state-sponsored propaganda.

  Notable Quote:

  "China is trying to save face, especially in their own country and they are saying that there are not trade negotiations that are actually going on." ([05:37])

• Market Response: Ferguson highlights a positive reaction from the stock market, noting that the Dow Jones surged nearly 500 points, closing above 40,000 for the first time since April 15. This uptick is attributed to investor confidence in Trump's negotiations yielding favorable outcomes.

  Notable Quote:

  "The stock market is believing Donald Trump... investors... are saying, yes, there is in fact progress in the U.S.-China trade relations." ([07:13])

• Media Critique: He criticizes the media for allegedly trying to discredit Trump by labeling his statements about trade talks as "fake news," drawing parallels to previous media mishaps like the Russian collusion and Hunter Biden laptop stories.

  Notable Quote:

  "If you think the media is going to tell you the truth about this issue, they're not. Because they hate Donald Trump and they want to do anything they can to undermine him and to hurt him." ([08:30])

• Future Trade Deals: Ferguson anticipates the imminent rollout of multiple trade agreements with various countries, facilitated by the Trump administration’s active negotiations in Washington, D.C.

Analysis: Ferguson asserts that despite official denials from China, the tangible benefits reflected in the stock market indicate genuine progress in trade relations. He urges listeners to remain skeptical of mainstream media reports, positioning Trump’s administration as effectively advancing America’s economic interests against misleading media narratives.

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3. Democratic Party in Turmoil

Overview: The final segment focuses on the internal crisis within the Democratic Party, highlighting plummeting approval ratings for Democratic leaders like Chuck Schumer and growing dissatisfaction among Democrats regarding their party’s direction.

Key Points:

• Poll Results: Recent polls show a dramatic decline in trust towards Democratic leaders. For instance, confidence in congressional Democratic leaders to manage the economy has dropped from 80% to 39%, the lowest ever recorded by Gallup polling.

  Notable Quote:

  "Take a look nationally. Hello, Democrats on Dem leaders in Congress... have been slashed in half to just 39%." ([10:38])

• Chuck Schumer’s Decline: In New York, Chuck Schumer’s favorable rating among Democrats has fallen from 73% to 52%, signaling significant dissatisfaction within his home state.

  Notable Quote:

  "I never thought I'd see the day in which just 52% of New York Democrats review Chuck Schumer favorably." ([11:05])

• Leadership Challenges: Ferguson points out that even prominent Democrats like Dick Durbin are questioning Joe Biden’s leadership, with remarks suggesting a lack of readiness to step aside.

  Notable Quote:

  "Dick Durbin takes a shot at Joe Biden saying, 'You want to leave when you can still walk out the front door and not be carried out the back door.'" ([13:17])

• Public Support for Trump: Contrasting the Democrats’ struggles, polls indicate strong public support for Trump’s initiatives, with a majority of Americans, including independents and some Democrats, backing his policies on the economy, immigration, and national security.

  Notable Quote:

  "According to a Harvard Harris poll conducted in February, the majority of Americans expressed support for President Donald Trump's initiatives across the board." ([12:15])

Analysis: Ferguson highlights a fracturing Democratic Party grappling with low approval ratings and internal dissent, juxtaposed against robust public support for Trump’s administration. He suggests that the Democrats’ inability to inspire confidence among their base is leading to a leadership crisis, further weakening their political standing.

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Conclusion

Ben Ferguson's episode of The 47 Morning Update presents a critical examination of current political dynamics, emphasizing President Trump's strategic moves against Democratic fundraising practices, challenging media narratives on international trade, and spotlighting significant unrest within the Democratic Party. Through incisive commentary and supporting evidence, Ferguson conveys a narrative of shifting political power and underscores the challenges facing the Democrats as they contend with internal and external pressures.

For listeners seeking an unfiltered perspective on American politics, this episode offers comprehensive insights into the intersecting issues shaping the nation's political landscape.

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Notable Quotes Recap:

• “President Donald Trump has ordered the Justice Department moments ago to investigate the Democratic Party's top fundraising platform.” ([00:30])
• “China is trying to save face...” ([05:37])
• “The stock market is believing Donald Trump...” ([07:13])
• “If you think the media is going to tell you the truth about this issue, they're not.” ([08:30])
• “Take a look nationally. ... have been slashed in half to just 39%.” ([10:38])
• “I never thought I'd see the day in which just 52% of New York Democrats review Chuck Schumer favorably.” ([11:05])
• “You want to leave when you can still walk out the front door and not be carried out the back door.” ([13:17])
• “According to a Harvard Harris poll conducted in February, the majority of Americans expressed support for President Donald Trump's initiatives across the board.” ([12:15])

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Stay Informed: To keep up with the latest political developments and receive in-depth analysis, subscribe to The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson on the iHeartRadio app or your preferred podcast platform.

Transcript

[Ryan]

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[Unknown]

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[Chuck Schumer]

Wasn't that delicious?

[Ben Ferguson]

So good. Your bill, ladies. I got it. No, I got it. Seriously, I insist. I insisted first.

[Ryan]

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[Unknown]

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[Ben Ferguson]

Okay.

[Unknown]

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[Ben Ferguson]

Rock, paper, scissors.

[Ryan]

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[Ben Ferguson]

No.

[Unknown]

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[Ryan]

Clarify with whom the US is speaking with China. They're saying it's fake news that trade talks are happening.

[Unknown]

Well, they had a meeting this morning so I can tell you it doesn't matter who they is. They had meetings this morning and we've been meeting with China. So I think you have. Jeff, as usual, I think you have your reporting wrong.

You're listening to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson.

[Ben Ferguson]

Good Friday morning, Ben Ferguson with you. It's nice to have you on the 47 Morning Update. And a quick reminder, if you have not hit the subscribe or follow or download button button, make sure you do it so you do not miss this show as we put it out every morning. All right, three big stories for you today. First up, Donald Trump has ordered moments ago the Justice Department to investigate Democrats top fundraising platform. You know that platform as a organization called. You ready for this Act Blue. I'll have those details for you coming up in just a moment. Also another big lie. The media wanting you to side with China, the Communist Chinese party instead of believing the President Donald Trump with the negotiations over the tariffs will break down. This big lie and expose exactly what the media was doing to try to get you to stand with China over America. And finally there's a massive revolt within the Democratic Party not because I say so, but because CNN is sounding the alarm and saying that sirens should be going off and Schumer and other Democrats offices as new poll numbers are showing a disaster for the party. We'll have those numbers for you as well. It's the 47 Morning Update and it starts right now. One of the reasons why we do this show is to bring you news before it breaks. The story you're about to hear is a story that has just happened within the last few moments. President Donald Trump has ordered the Justice Department moments ago to investigate the Democratic Party's top fundraising platform. Now, Trump, in this newly signed executive order is directing the Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to investigate allegations that ActBlue has allowed illegal campaign donations. Now, Democrats, of course, are condemning the move and ActBlue called it an impressive use of power by the White House. Now, the Trump administration and GOP's targeting of AgBlue as part of their brazen attack on democracy in America, the organization said, claiming that today's escalation by the White House is blatantly unlawful and needs to be seen for what it is. Donald Trump's latest front is campaign to stamp out all political, electoral and ideological opposition. Act Blue does have something to worry about. Act Blue says they're going to defend themselves. But Trump's order is directing Pam Bonnie, in consultation with the Treasury Department to investigate allegations at the online fundraising platforms and specifically ActBlue have been used by some to make straw or D contributions or foreign contributions to political candidates and or political committees which would be against the law. The findings of the investigation will be reported back within 180 days, according to the executive order signed by Trump. Now, since taking office, Trump has sought to use the powers of the government to make sure that everyone is playing by the rules. Now, just so you know a little bit more about ActBlue, the Democrats have used this for two decades. What do they do? They help power an outpouring of, quote, small donor donations to candidates and causes. They are incredibly successful. Now, the Republican National Committee chairman Michael Watley applauded the investigation, saying in a statement, the Democrats dark money scam has gone on long enough. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee chairwoman and the Democratic National Committee chair and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee chair, as well as the governor's association with the Democratic Party have all come together and denounced the executive order in a joint statement. At the end of the day, we're going to find out exactly what's going on with this dark money and we're going to find out if fact Blue has been undermining the laws in this country and we're going to have Attorney General look at it with this executive order. Now, it's going to be interesting to see what comes out of this and my Gut is we're probably going to have a much bigger story than what I just told you right now.

[Unknown]

Next story number two.

[Ben Ferguson]

So the media is wanting you to believe a big Chinese communist red lie and they want you to believe that China is telling you the truth on what's happening with trade negotiations over the President of the United States of America. Let me explain to you exactly what's happening. China is trying to save face, especially in their own country and they are saying that there is not trade negotiations that are actually going on. China has denied ongoing talks, but Donald Trump says, look, they can say whatever they want with their propaganda in their state sponsored media. I can tell you that we are talking and that we are working towards a deal. Well now the media wants you to believe that Donald Trump is lying to you, that it's all doom and gloom because they want Donald Trump to lose when it comes to fixing the problems with trade. Not because they actually care that much about the issue of trade. They just want Donald Trump to lose because it's Donald Trump. Well, Donald Trump was asked a question about the trade deals going on in negotiations with China. And I want you to listen to what he had to say in his own words.

[Ryan]

Clarify with whom the US is speaking with China. They're saying it's fake news that trade talks are happening.

[Unknown]

Well, they had a meeting this morning, so I can't tell you. It doesn't matter who they is, we may reveal it later, but they had meetings this morning and we've been meeting with China. And so I think you have. Jeff, as usual, I think you have your reporting wrong.

[Ben Ferguson]

Thank you. I love how the President there says, as usual, you have your reporting wrong. Now the media again wants you to side with China and they want you to not believe Donald Trump. But when it comes to dollars, well, the stock market is believing Donald Trump. Despite China's official denial of the ongoing talks, we saw the Dow Jones Industrial average surge nearly 500 points closing above 40,000 for the the first time since April 15, while the S P 500 and Nasdaq also saw significant gains. Why? Because they believe that Donald Trump is telling the truth. And they also understand that China lies whenever they need to to their citizens to save face. Now the market rally reflects basically one thing, optimism that a deal is going to get done soon and the easing trade tensions may benefit also the global economy. Now, while formal negotiat have not been confirmed by both parties, the positive market response indicates that investors and people that tell them what's going on within the political World are saying, yes, there is in fact progress in the U. S. China trade relations. So just remember, when these reports come out from the media, don't forget these are the same people that told you that the Russian collusion story was real. They're the same people that told you that the Hunter Biden laptop story was a lie. And they're also also the same media that sold you a story of 50 plus people that signed their name claiming Russian disinformation with the Hunter Biden laptop story. So if you think the media is going to tell you the truth about this issue, they're not. Why? Because they hate Donald Trump and they want to do anything they can to undermine him and to hurt him. As for China, I expect them to continue to lie. I think the President was making it clear there he doesn't care what they say as long as a better deal gets done for American workers and the American consumer. And that is exactly what the President's plan is. Now you can get excited because we also know that there's dozens of other countries that are in Washington, D.C. right now actively negotiating their trade deals with the President. And what does that mean? In the very near future, you're going to see a rollout of trade deals that are getting done at the White House. I'm telling you right now, it's coming and to happen very soon.

[Unknown]

And here is story number three.

[Ben Ferguson]

There's no doubt the polls are showing that the American people are trusting Donald Trump. They're trusting him on trade, they're trusting him on the economy, they're trusting him on energy, and they're trusting him on border issues as well. There's also something else that's happening that's very interesting. For the first time, Donald Trump is now grabbing independent and Democrats saying, we want to stand with you, Mr. President, instead of our own party, the Democratic Party. Now there is a revolt within the Democratic Party not because I say so, but because radical CNN says so. In fact, CNN had a total freakout session about just how bad things are right now for the Democratic Party. And here is what they had to say and their warning to their viewers about just how bad it's really gotten.

[Unknown]

Yeah, this I think is a revolt. A revolt that is going on within the Democratic Party right now. Democrats and their leaders. I mean, take a look nationally. Hello, Democrats on Dem leaders in Congress, the belief that they will do the right thing when it comes to the economy. Last year at this time, 80% believe that the Democratic leaders in Congress would do the right thing when it comes to the economy. Keep in mind, this is Democrats. Look at where we are now. That number has been slashed in half to just 39%.

[Ben Ferguson]

Holy Toledo.

[Unknown]

That is the lowest number by far in Gallup polling. The lowest previous was just 60%, which is 21 points higher than this. Democrats hate, hate, hate, hate what their congressional leaders in Washington are doing right now on the key issue of the day, the economy. And their confidence has fallen through the floor. Mr. Berman.

[Ryan]

All right, Chuck Schumer is the Senate.

[Chuck Schumer]

Democratic leader right now.

[Ryan]

How are feelings about him, particularly in New York?

[Unknown]

Yeah, let's go to the state of New York. What's always on my mind right, we're in the state of New York right now. New York Democrats on Chuck Schumer view him favorably in December of 2024. That was just a few months ago. It was 73%. Look at where that number has fallen to in just a few months. It is now down to just 52%. That is the lowest I could ever find in Siena College on how Democrats in Chuck Schumer's home state view him. And keep in mind, if you're thinking about a primary challenge, it would be a few years away. But Alexandria Ocasio Cortez's favorable rating among Democrats is considerably higher in the 60s, so he is doing quite poorly in his own home state of New York. I never thought I'd see the day in which just 52% of New York Democrats review Chuck Schumer favorably. It's almost unfathomable.

[Ben Ferguson]

Not only is it a disaster for the Democrats right now, but according to a Harvard Harris poll conducted in February, the majority of Americans expressed support for President Donald Trump's initiatives across the board. Reforming government operations with Doge and enhancing national security. The polls are indicating that many independents, including Democrats, are actually proud of what the president is doing right now. And on issues like immigration, President Trump's approval rating is well above 50%. Majority of Americans are saying they stand with the president on strengthening his administration's policy of getting rid of illegal immigrants and securing the southern border. So what is the takeaway from all of this? Well, number one, the Democrats are in disarray. And number two, the American people are loving what Donald Trump is doing now. How bad is it? Chuck Schumer is now having to ask questions as the top Democrat about whether or not he's considering stepping aside. Take a listen.

[Ryan]

But have you given any thought to, to a more specific timeline when it comes to passing the torch yourself? Are you even giving that some thought right now?

[Chuck Schumer]

Right Now, I am focused on showing the American people how bad Trump's economics are for them, how he is putting our democracy risk. And I am totally focused on that. As you said, I was out on Long island today. I have visited all six Republican, six of the seven Republican congressional districts talking about tariffs, talking about the economy, talking about how bad cutting Medicaid would be, particularly in our rural areas. That's my focus and that's what I'm doing. And, you know, so just so I'm.

[Ryan]

Clear, no thought, no conversation about when you might step aside.

[Chuck Schumer]

I'm focusing on the decision that the Republicans in Congress have to make to whether support Trump with these horrible economic policies or not. And we're doing everything we can to show the American people who's on whose side.

[Ben Ferguson]

So let's be clear. Even MSNBC is asking Chuck Schumer, when are you going to step aside? This comes right after Dick Durbin takes a shot at Joe Biden saying, quote, you want to leave when you can still walk out the front door and not be carried out the back door. That's why he's not going to seek reelection. As for who's in charge of the Democratic Party, no one knows at the moment. What we do know is the majority of the American people are saying they know who's in charge of the country and they stand behind him. And his name is Donald J. Trump.

[Unknown]

Thank you for listening to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson. Please make sure you hit subscribe wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. And for more in depth news, also subscribe to the Ben Ferguson Podcast and we will see you back here tomorrow.