The Chris Cuomo Project: Matt Taibbi on the TRUTH Behind Russiagate

Host: Chris Cuomo
Guest: Matt Taibbi, Independent Journalist, Racket News
Release Date: August 12, 2025

1. Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Chris Cuomo Project, veteran journalist Chris Cuomo welcomes Matt Taibbi, a renowned independent journalist known for his incisive reporting on political scandals. Taibbi, the force behind Racket News on Substack, delves deep into the complexities of the Russiagate investigation, offering insights that challenge mainstream narratives.

2. FISA Warrants and the Steele Dossier

The conversation kicks off at [03:10] when Chris Cuomo probes Taibbi on the discrepancies in the FISA warrants related to Russiagate. Taibbi explains the gravity of the situation:

Matt Taibbi ([04:04]): "The lie is they referenced the paid opposition research document, the Steele dossier, and they kind of double buttered their own bread by referring to a news article as if it supported the dossier, when in fact the news article quoted the dossier's author. So they were essentially double quoting the same source."

Taibbi emphasizes the power of FISA authorities and how their misuse can lead to extensive surveillance without proper oversight. He highlights the lack of transparency and the critical omission of Carter Page's status as a CIA informant in the warrant applications.

3. George Papadopoulos and the Origin of the Inquiry

At [05:39], the discussion shifts to George Papadopoulos, a pivotal figure in initiating the Russiagate investigation. Taibbi clarifies common misconceptions:

Matt Taibbi ([05:57]): "He actually never said dirt and he never said anything about thousands of emails. Downer himself said that."

Cuomo challenges the narrative, prompting Taibbi to shed light on Papadopoulos's interactions with Joseph Mifsud, a figure whose intentions remain ambiguous. Taibbi points out that the investigation was already looming over Trump associates before Papadopoulos's admissions, suggesting deeper underlying motives.

4. The Role of John Brennan and Potential Perjury

Cuomo raises concerns about John Brennan's involvement and possible legal implications at [07:43]:

Matt Taibbi ([07:46]): "Yes, for sure. I mean, I will. I shouldn't say that definitively. I mean, I think the case for perjury is extremely strong."

Taibbi accuses Brennan of misleading Congress regarding the Steele dossier's influence on the intelligence community's assessments, implying that this deception could constitute perjury. The discussion underscores the potential legal fallout from such actions and questions the integrity of those leading the investigation.

5. Indictments and Lawfare

At [10:00], the conversation delves into the likelihood of indictments arising from the Russiagate probe. Taibbi expresses skepticism about the substance of potential charges:

Matt Taibbi ([10:39]): "I think that there will be significant indictments. I just don't know what for."

However, he acknowledges pressures within the system to prosecute, suggesting that political motivations may overshadow genuine legal concerns. The notion of "lawfare"—using legal systems to achieve political ends—becomes a central theme in their discussion.

6. Durham Report and Its Implications

Cuomo critiques the Durham Report at [16:59], pointing out its selective disclosures and perceived biases:

Matt Taibbi ([18:53]): "He did take out the most explosive stuff and put it in a classified annex. And that stuff is, I think very newsworthy and raises an awful lot of questions and also completely recasts what the story is."

Both hosts express frustration over the Durham Report's handling of sensitive information, particularly its treatment of Hillary Clinton's knowledge of FBI activities related to opposition research on Trump. This omission fuels suspicions of ulterior motives behind the investigation.

7. Media Responsibility and the Role of Independent Journalism

Transitioning to media dynamics at [44:16], Cuomo and Taibbi discuss the evolving landscape of journalism. Taibbi advocates for a diverse media ecosystem, blending traditional investigative journalism with independent voices like podcasts:

Matt Taibbi ([45:24]): "I think you need to have both things. They're not mutually exclusive."

Cuomo echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for standards in media to combat misinformation and conspiracy theories proliferating on digital platforms. The dialogue highlights the critical role of responsible journalism in maintaining public trust.

8. The Future of Russiagate in Politics

As the episode progresses to [43:20], the hosts contemplate the lasting impact of Russiagate on American politics, particularly in the midterm elections. Taibbi predicts that Russiagate will remain a potent political tool:

Matt Taibbi ([43:29]): "For Donald Trump, this is a winning issue on two fronts for him politically."

Cuomo shares concerns about the prolonged focus on such investigations detracting from pressing national issues like immigration and economic policies, potentially deepening societal divisions.

9. Closing Remarks

In the episode's conclusion, Chris Cuomo and Matt Taibbi reflect on the complexities of the Russiagate saga. They acknowledge the murky waters of political investigations and the essential need for accountability without succumbing to partisan lawfare. Their closing thoughts call for a balanced approach to governance and media, striving towards a more informed and less divided society.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Taibbi ([04:04]): "The lie is they referenced the paid opposition research document, the Steele dossier..."
• Matt Taibbi ([07:46]): "I think the case for perjury is extremely strong."
• Matt Taibbi ([10:39]): "I think that there will be significant indictments. I just don't know what for."
• Matt Taibbi ([18:53]): "He did take out the most explosive stuff and put it in a classified annex..."
• Matt Taibbi ([43:29]): "For Donald Trump, this is a winning issue on two fronts for him politically."
• Matt Taibbi ([45:24]): "I think you need to have both things. They're not mutually exclusive."

This episode of The Chris Cuomo Project offers a thorough examination of the Russiagate investigation through Matt Taibbi's critical lens. By dissecting the intricacies of FISA warrants, the Steele dossier, and the broader implications of political lawfare, Taibbi and Cuomo provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of one of the most contentious political probes in recent history.