Podcast Summary: The Ben Shapiro Show - Ep. 2148: The Epstein File Release FIASCO

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Ben Shapiro Show
• Host/Author: The Daily Wire
• Episode: Ep. 2148 - The Epstein File Release FIASCO
• Release Date: February 28, 2025
• Description: The Ben Shapiro Show delivers comprehensive conservative analysis on current events, culture, and politics with no spin or nonsense, Monday through Friday.

Introduction

In Episode 2148, titled "The Epstein File Release FIASCO," Ben Shapiro tackles the controversial release of Jeffrey Epstein's files, critiques the handling of the situation by the Trump administration, and emphasizes the administration's broader priorities. The episode also features discussions on the arrival of Andrew and Tristan Tate in the United States, an interview with Vivek Ramaswamy about his gubernatorial run in Ohio, and a breakdown of the recent Academy Awards nominations.

The Epstein File Release Fiasco

[00:00] Ben Shapiro: Ben begins the episode by drawing parallels between the recent Epstein file release and General Rivera's infamous vault opening attempt, suggesting that the recent event has similarly failed to deliver substantial new information. He expresses frustration over the lack of transparency and demands a full, unredacted disclosure of Epstein's files to uncover the truth behind Epstein's operations and connections.

Key Points:

• Pam Bondi's Announcement: Ben discusses Attorney General Pam Bondi’s announcement about releasing new Epstein files, which subsequently turned out to be underwhelming. Bondi stated, “[03:11]... you're going to see some Epstein information being released by my office.”

• Social Media Influencers' Involvement: The release involved social media influencers displaying binders purporting to contain new Epstein information. However, the binders held no new material, leading to public disappointment and skepticism.

• Bondi's Letter to Kash Patel: Ben highlights a letter from Pam Bondi to FBI Director Kash Patel, accusing the New York FBI office of withholding thousands of Epstein-related documents. Bondi stated, “[03:36]... there’s evidence of underlings who may be getting rid of documents.”

  Notable Quote:

  “By 8:00am Tomorrow, February 28th, the FBI will deliver the full and complete Epstein files to my office...” ([03:11]).

[02:36] Emily Austin: Emily Austin, a journalist and TV host, joins the discussion to provide insights into the mishandling of the Epstein file release. She explains that the release was disorganized, with binders handed out to influencers without substantial new information, ultimately undermining the seriousness of the disclosure.

Key Points:

• Unplanned Release: Emily clarifies that the distribution of binders was unplanned and not intended to leak significant new information. The binders primarily contained flight logs, contact lists, and victims' information without exposing any new allegations or evidence.

• Public and Internal Reactions: The absence of new information led to public outrage and intensified Bondi’s accusations against the FBI. Emily notes the irony in expecting journalists to be outraged at the content of the binders rather than the FBI’s alleged obstruction.

Notable Quote:

“The kind of release strategy was weird. And then when it turned out there was nothing in it, then the repercussions began.” ([02:39]).

Discussion with Emily Austin

[15:14] Emily Austin: Emily provides a detailed account of the events surrounding the Epstein file release. She describes the briefing at the White House where conservatives and independent journalists received the binders and later realized the lack of new information. Bondi’s subsequent public accusation against the FBI further complicated the narrative, shifting blame away from her office.

Key Points:

• Briefing Environment: The briefing intended to provide transparency ended up distributing underwhelming binders, leading to confusion and frustration among the attendees.

• Bondi’s Public Letter: Bondi’s letter publicly accuses the FBI of withholding documents, which Emily suggests is a tactic to shift blame and create a narrative of obstruction without concrete evidence.

Notable Quote:

“It was a step in the right direction. But all the outrage towards the media personalities that were there rather than the FBI corrupt agents...” ([16:21]).

Andrew and Tristan Tate's Arrival in the United States

[19:25] Ben Shapiro: Ben shifts the conversation to the controversial arrival of Andrew and Tristan Tate in the United States. He critiques the Trump administration’s purported involvement in securing their release from Romanian custody, labeling them as dangerous individuals with criminal backgrounds.

Key Points:

• Background of the Tate Brothers: Andrew and Tristan Tate are known for their criminal accusations, including rape and human trafficking. Their arrival in the U.S. has sparked debate over the administration's judgment.

• Political Reactions: President Trump publicly denied involvement, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed opposition to their presence, emphasizing that Florida does not welcome individuals accused of sex trafficking.

Notable Quote:

“Anyone who is celebrating their arrival in America has a screw loose, because these are some of the worst people in the world.” ([20:28]).

Trump Administration's Priorities vs. Distractions

[04:00] Ben Shapiro: Ben argues that the Epstein file release and the Tate brothers' arrival are unnecessary distractions from the Trump administration’s essential objectives. He emphasizes the need to focus on rebuilding the American military, economy, controlling national debt, eliminating DEI initiatives from the federal government, and reshaping foreign policy to address rising threats like China.

Key Points:

• Focus Areas:
  • Military Rebuilding: Strengthening national defense capabilities.
  • Economic Growth: Promoting economic dynamism and reducing bureaucratic obstacles.
  • Debt Control: Implementing measures to manage and reduce national debt.
  • DEI Reduction: Removing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives from federal operations.
  • Foreign Policy: Concentrating on threats from nations like China.

Notable Quote:

“We need to rebuild the American military. We need to rebuild the American economy and unleash its dynamism.” ([01:20]).

Interview with Vivek Ramaswamy: Running for Ohio Governor

[34:02] Ben Shapiro: Ben interviews Vivek Ramaswamy, who has announced his candidacy for the Ohio governorship. Ramaswamy outlines his motivations and policy priorities, emphasizing conservative principles and economic reform.

Key Points:

• Motivation for Running: Ramaswamy seeks to address state-level issues that he believes are more effectively managed at the state rather than federal level, aligning with President Trump's strategies.

• Policy Priorities:

  • Zero Tax State: Working towards eliminating state taxes to boost economic growth.
  • Property Tax Reduction: Aiming to lower property taxes to alleviate the financial burden on residents.
  • Regulatory Overhaul: Simplifying and reducing regulations to foster business growth and attract entrepreneurs.
  • Natural Gas Exploration: Expediting permits to exploit Ohio’s natural resources.
  • Education Reform: Focusing on improving educational outcomes in math, reading, and writing, while opposing DEI and "woke" policies.

Notable Quote:

“I want Ohio to be the state that leads the way where freedom is our heritage, excellence is our destiny.” ([42:32]).

Oscar Breakdown with Phil

[43:52] Ben Shapiro: Ben and Phil delve into the recent Academy Awards nominations, reviewing and critiquing various Best Picture contenders. Ben provides candid assessments of the nominated films, often criticizing their political undertones and perceived flaws.

Key Points:

• Critique of Nominated Films:

  • Anora: Critiqued as an awful film despite its Palme d'Or win.
  • The Brutalist: Acknowledged for excellent acting and direction but criticized for its political messaging.
  • Conclave: Viewed as lacking substance and coherence, focusing on an implausible plot twist.
  • Wicked: Recognized as an acceptable film amidst a weak nomination pool.
  • Nickel Boys & The Substance: Discussed with critical insights on their thematic executions and narrative structures.

• Overall Assessment: Ben expresses disappointment in the quality and political messaging of the nominated films, viewing them as reflective of Hollywood's current ideological leanings rather than artistic merit.

Notable Quote:

“The Brutalist is beautifully shot, it's really well directed, the acting is across the board excellent. Guy Pearce particularly is terrific in this film...” ([46:44]).

Conclusion

In Episode 2148, Ben Shapiro delivers a thorough critique of the mishandled release of Epstein's files, highlighting issues of transparency and bureaucratic obstruction. He underscores the importance of the Trump administration focusing on significant national priorities rather than getting sidetracked by controversies that ultimately lack substance. The episode also features a forward-looking perspective with Vivek Ramaswamy’s gubernatorial campaign, emphasizing his commitment to conservative economic and educational reforms in Ohio. The discussion concludes with a critical analysis of the Oscars, reflecting Ben’s skepticism towards Hollywood's current creative directions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

1. Ben Shapiro on AG Pam Bondi's Announcement:

   “There are well over... over 250, actually. So we have to make sure that their identity is protected and their personal information.” ([02:39]).

2. Ben Shapiro on Distractions:

   “We need to rebuild the American military. We need to rebuild the American economy and unleash its dynamism.” ([01:20]).

3. Vivek Ramaswamy on Governing Ohio:

   “I want Ohio to be the state that leads the way where freedom is our heritage, excellence is our destiny.” ([42:32]).

4. Ben Shapiro on Hollywood Films:

   “The Brutalist is beautifully shot, it's really well directed, the acting is across the board excellent.” ([46:44]).

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from Episode 2148 of The Ben Shapiro Show, providing listeners and non-listeners alike with a comprehensive overview of the episode’s main topics and viewpoints.