Summary of "TRUMP'S TANTRUM BACKFIRES: Lawsuit is 'the stupidest thing he could have done,' says legal expert"
Podcast: The Briefing with Jen Psaki
Host: Jen Psaki / MSNBC
Release Date: July 19, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki, the discussion centers around former President Donald Trump's recent defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and its implications for both Trump and the broader media landscape. Legal experts, political commentators, and media analysts provide in-depth analysis of the lawsuit's potential impact, the media's response, and the ongoing political fallout.
Trump's Defamation Lawsuit Against The Wall Street Journal
Timestamp: [01:00]
Jimmy Jam introduces the main topic: Donald Trump's defamation lawsuit filed against The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones, Rupert Murdoch, and two journalists. The lawsuit alleges that a WSJ article claiming Trump sent Jeffrey Epstein a lewd letter on Epstein's 50th birthday has caused "billions of dollars" in reputational damage to Trump. Although Trump denies the veracity of the letter, the lawsuit seeks $10 billion in damages and a jury trial, indicating a prolonged legal battle.
Notable Quote:
"Donald Trump filed a defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal... he is seeking $10 billion in relief." — Jimmy Jam [01:00]
The Streisand Effect and Media Coverage
Timestamp: [03:00]
The conversation shifts to the Streisand Effect, illustrating how Trump's lawsuit may inadvertently amplify media attention on the Epstein-TRUMP connection. Historical reference is made to Barbra Streisand’s lawsuit, which unintentionally increased public interest in her home’s aerial photograph.
Notable Quote:
"Maybe the Streisand effect is now the Trump effect because right now Trump is triggering the Streisand effect left and right." — Jimmy Jam [03:30]
Conservative Media's Response
Timestamp: [05:00]
Fox News, traditionally a stronghold for conservative viewpoints, has notably reduced its coverage of the Epstein story. Laura Ingraham's initial intent to cover the WSJ report was abandoned, raising questions about potential pressure from higher-ups within the network.
Notable Quote:
"She's basically making the case, much as Donald Trump did a week ago, that nobody really cares about the Epstein story." — Jimmy Jam [06:32]
Public Opinion and Bipartisan Concern
Timestamp: [07:00]
Contrary to Trump's assertions that the Epstein story lacks public interest, CNN polling indicates significant bipartisan concern. 40% of Republicans express dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the issue, and only 17% of Americans approve of his actions in this matter.
Notable Quote:
"Polling from CNN this week shows that this story is one of the few issues that both Democrats and Republicans care about." — Jimmy Jam [07:00]
Expert Analysis: Harry Lippman and Brandi Zadrozny
Timestamp: [08:30]
Harry Lippman, a former U.S. Attorney, and Brandi Zadrozny, a senior MSNBC reporter, provide critical insights into Trump's lawsuit:
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Harry Lippman describes the lawsuit as "the single stupidest thing" Trump could have done, predicting it will backfire and further entrench his legal troubles. He emphasizes the high standard required for defamation and doubts Trump's chances of success.
Notable Quote:
"He’s in quicksand. Deeper and deeper, the truth will out." — Harry Lippman [08:30] -
Brandi Zadrozny discusses Trump's strategy of suing media outlets to manipulate public perception and maintain support among his base. She notes that while some MAGA influencers may adjust their narratives, the broader base remains steadfast in believing negative reports about Trump.
Notable Quote:
"It really has changed the conversation for Trump’s the MAGA influencers, but not for the MAGA true believers." — Brandi Zadrozny [10:14]
DOJ's Motion to Release Grand Jury Materials
Timestamp: [12:29]
The Department of Justice's (DOJ) motion to release grand jury materials related to the Epstein and Maxwell indictments is scrutinized. Legal experts argue that even if released, these materials are unlikely to contain the comprehensive information demanded by Trump’s supporters.
Notable Quote:
"There's basically no chance that what they have there is the sort of thing that MAGA is clamoring for." — Harry Lippman [13:13]
Bipartisan Efforts and Congressional Actions
Timestamp: [17:07]
Democratic Congressman Hank Johnson discusses a bipartisan resolution urging the DOJ to release more comprehensive Epstein-related documents. Despite Republican opposition, Johnson remains optimistic about sustained advocacy for transparency.
Notable Quote:
"I don't think that their efforts are going to be successful because the American people mean business about these records." — Hank Johnson [18:04]
Media Landscape and CBS's Cancellation of Stephen Colbert
Timestamp: [23:24]
The sudden cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show on CBS is analyzed. While CBS cites financial reasons, experts speculate political motivations, especially in light of recent settlements between CBS and Trump. Concerns are raised about the chilling effect on media outlets that criticize the administration.
Notable Quote:
"It is worth noting that Stephen Colbert recently took aim at CBS's efforts to settle a lawsuit with the president." — Jimmy Jam [23:24]
Judicial Appointments and DOJ Practices
Timestamp: [37:33]
Rachel Rossi, former Deputy Associate Attorney General, criticizes the DOJ’s handling of high-profile cases, such as the Brett Hankinson sentencing related to the Breonna Taylor case. She highlights a pattern of leniency towards political allies and aggressive prosecution of Trump’s opponents.
Notable Quote:
"What we're seeing with the Breonna Taylor sentencing memorandum filed today is simply that this administration is very clear about who they are going to support and who they are not going to support." — Rachel Rossi [37:33]
Trump's Denial of Drawing Skills
Timestamp: [43:00]
In a lighter yet telling moment, Trump's claim that he has "never drawn a picture in his life" is countered with evidence of his signed artworks, including donations to charity and a famous unsigned drawing on a hurricane projection map.
Notable Quote:
"Now, without weighing in on the merits of his complaint against the Wall Street Journal, I would just like to address the assertion that Donald Trump never wrote a picture in his life." — Jimmy Jam [43:00]
Conclusion
The episode underscores the increasingly contentious relationship between Donald Trump and the media, highlighting strategic missteps, media suppression, and ongoing political battles. Legal experts warn that Trump's actions may ultimately exacerbate his legal challenges, while media analysts express concern over potential pressures leading to reduced media criticism of the administration.
End of Summary