Summary of The Ben Shapiro Show - Episode 2245 Release Date: July 24, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 2245 of The Ben Shapiro Show, Ben Shapiro delves into significant political revelations and ongoing controversies. The episode centers on Tulsi Gabbard’s explosive claims regarding the Obama administration’s manipulation of intelligence related to Russiagate, updates on the Jeffrey Epstein case, and a substantial settlement with Columbia University. Additionally, Shapiro discusses the Trump administration's economic policies, including tax cuts and tariff adjustments, and touches upon the divisive topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the Democratic Party.

Tulsi Gabbard’s Allegations Against the Obama Administration

Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), has accused the Obama administration of orchestrating a faulty intelligence assessment to advance the Russiagate narrative. According to Gabbard, declassified documents reveal that intelligence officials deliberately falsified information to conclude that Russia interfered in the 2016 U.S. election to aid Donald Trump’s victory.

Key Points:

• Doctored Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA): Gabbard claims the Obama administration manipulated the ICA to assert high-confidence judgments that Russia preferred Trump over Clinton, thereby setting the stage for the Mueller investigation.

• House Intelligence Committee Report: Released alongside Gabbard’s statements, this report corroborates her claims by highlighting inconsistencies and flaws in the ICA, particularly questioning the evidence that Russia aimed to boost Trump’s chances.

Notable Quotes:

• Tulsi Gabbard (00:51): “I wasn't ready to be forgotten.”
• Unnamed DNI Official (02:30): “There is irrefutable evidence that detail how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false.”
• Unnamed DNI Official (03:33): “The expressed intent and what followed afterward can only be described as a years long coup and a treasonous conspiracy against the American people, our republic, and an attempt to undermine President Trump's administration.” (04:07)

Analysis: Shapiro acknowledges the gravity of Gabbard’s allegations but cautions against overselling the case. He draws parallels to past instances where overselling led to public disappointment, such as the Epstein files controversy handled by Pam Bondi. Shapiro emphasizes the need for substantial evidence before pursuing criminal charges like treason against former President Obama.

Jeffrey Epstein Case Developments

The Epstein saga continues to capture public attention, with recent legal maneuvers highlighting the complexities of releasing sensitive information.

Key Points:

• Grand Jury Transcripts Denied: U.S. District Court Judge Robin Rosenberg denied the DOJ's request to release Epstein’s grand jury transcripts, citing strict confidentiality rules.

• Subpoenas for Ghislaine Maxwell and Others: Representative James Comer is arranging subpoenas for Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s convicted associate, to depose her regarding her activities and connections.

• Media and Political Reactions: Claims circulate that the DOJ’s withholding of Epstein files is to protect individuals like President Trump, who had associations with Epstein.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Tracy (38:50): “What do you mean by personal relationships?”
• Ben Shapiro (39:12): “At least today I'm going to have to assert my 5th, 6th and 14th amendment right, sir.” (39:12)

Discussion with Michael Tracy: Independent journalist Michael Tracy provides a critical perspective on the Epstein files, arguing that much of the public’s fascination stems from oversold narratives and questionable credibility of some accusers. Tracy emphasizes the need for thorough, evidence-based investigation rather than speculative conspiracies.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Tracy (46:21): “There was some dissension within the federal Prosecutor's office in South Florida about the best manner in which to approach the Epstein prosecution.”

Settlement with Columbia University

The Trump administration secured a significant settlement with Columbia University, compelling the Ivy League institution to address allegations of discriminatory practices.

Key Points:

• Monetary Settlement: Columbia agreed to pay over $220 million and implement measures to reverse racially discriminatory practices.

• Independent Monitoring: The settlement mandates independent oversight to ensure Columbia complies with merit-based hiring and admissions, eliminating affirmative action policies.

• Policy Changes: Columbia must ban masked protests, maintain a trained security force, and relocate disciplinary matters to the Office of the Provost.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Shapiro: “They are using that as a lever to get these universities to abide by the law.” (75:24)

Analysis: Shapiro views the settlement as a victory for the Trump administration, asserting that it forces prestigious institutions like Columbia to adhere strictly to legal standards, thereby promoting fairness and equality.

Economic Policies: Tax Cuts and Tariffs

Shapiro discusses the Trump administration's recent economic actions, highlighting the successes and criticisms of tax reforms and tariff policies.

Key Points:

• Family Tax Cuts: Successfully passed, these cuts are touted as significant relief for American families, preventing the largest tax hike in history.

• Tariff Adjustments: The administration has normalized previously high tariffs, such as the 15% tariff on Japanese exports, which the markets received positively as a reduction from anticipated higher rates.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Shapiro (79:40): “Is this good economic policy? I don't think these tariffs at 15%, 10%, 20% are going to accomplish the goal of reshoring large scale manufacturing in the United States.”

Analysis: While acknowledging the market's positive reaction to lowered tariffs, Shapiro criticizes the long-term efficacy of such policies, suggesting they may lead to higher consumer prices without achieving the intended goal of revitalizing American manufacturing.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the Democratic Party

The episode touches upon the Democratic Party's strong advocacy for DEI initiatives and the internal divisions this creates.

Key Points:

• DEI Advocacy: Prominent Democrats, including Maya Wiley and Ayanna Pressley, emphasize the essential role of DEI in building a strong, inclusive America.

• Shapiro’s Critique: Shapiro argues that the Democratic focus on DEI, equating group disparities solely to inequity, alienates some voters and leads to a loss in political support.

Notable Quotes:

• Maya Wiley (83:18): “Diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a nice to have. It is a must have.”
• Ayanna Pressley (83:54): “DEI is essential to ensuring our children are afforded a better future than their ancestors.”

Analysis: Shapiro contends that the Democratic Party's heavy emphasis on DEI can be counterproductive, suggesting it fosters resentment and divisiveness rather than unity. He advocates for a more balanced approach to addressing inequalities.

Closing Remarks: Brian Kohberger Case

Towards the episode’s conclusion, Shapiro briefly mentions the sentencing of Brian Kohberger, a high-profile murder case, indicating further discussions available for members.

Key Points:

• Brian Kohberger Sentencing: The case has concluded with his conviction and sentencing, representing ongoing coverage of significant criminal cases.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Shapiro: “Remember, in order to watch, you have to be a member. If you're not a member, become a member.”

Conclusion

Episode 2245 of The Ben Shapiro Show provides a comprehensive analysis of recent political and legal developments, focusing on Tulsi Gabbard’s allegations against the Obama administration, updates on the Epstein case, the Trump administration’s settlement with Columbia University, and discussions on economic policies and DEI initiatives. Through detailed discourse and expert commentary, Shapiro emphasizes the importance of evidence-based conclusions and cautions against the pitfalls of overselling contentious issues.

Note: This summary is intended to provide an overview of the key discussions and insights from the podcast episode based on the provided transcript. For a complete understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.