The Daily Beans - Episode: Doxxer In Chief (feat. Ophelia Yheskel) | Released April 24, 2025

Hosts: Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg | Guest: Ophelia Yheskel, Director of External Affairs for the Democratic Governors Association

Introduction

In this episode of The Daily Beans, hosts Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg tackle pressing progressive news topics, ranging from judicial decisions and media independence to trade policies and state-level resistance against federal overreach. A highlight of the episode is an insightful interview with Ophelia Yheskel from the Democratic Governors Association (DGA), who discusses the pivotal role of governors in safeguarding democratic values and countering the Trump administration's policies.

Key News Highlights

1. Judge Sinis' Ruling in the Abrego Garcia Case

• Timestamp [00:00]
• Overview: Allison Gill opens the episode by discussing Judge Sinis' decisive ruling against the Trump Justice Department's obstruction in the Abrego Garcia case. This case epitomizes the judiciary's role in ensuring accountability within the executive branch.
• Notable Quote:
  • Allison Gill [05:02]: "The defendants invoke, in name only, a range of privileges... without providing any supporting information or analysis."

2. Resignation of 60 Minutes' Executive Producer

• Timestamp [17:37]
• Overview: The episode covers the resignation of Bill Owens, the executive producer of 60 Minutes, who cited increasing interference and a lack of editorial independence as reasons for his departure. This move raises concerns about media freedom amidst political pressures.
• Notable Quote:
  • Allison Gill: "This producer quit, citing a lack of independence."

3. Trump Administration's Trade Policies and Tariffs

• Timestamp [14:55]
• Overview: The hosts delve into the Trump administration's contemplation of slashing tariffs on Chinese imports by over 50%, aiming to de-escalate trade tensions with Beijing. This potential tariff reduction is part of a broader strategy affecting international trade dynamics.
• Notable Quote:
  • Dana Goldberg [15:34]: "It's gonna happen again. One senior White House official said that China tariffs were likely to come down between roughly 50% and 65%."

4. Legal Challenges Against Tariffs

• Timestamp [13:17]
• Overview: The U.S. Court of International Trade denied a temporary restraining order from five small businesses affected by Trump's tariffs. While the immediate restraining order was denied, the court is still considering a preliminary injunction that could provide longer-term relief.
• Notable Quote:
  • Dana Goldberg [13:39]: "The temporary restraining order was denied..."

5. Illinois Governor Pritzker's State-Level Actions

• Timestamp [26:25]
• Overview: Governor J.B. Pritzker of Illinois announced a review of all state business dealings with El Salvador, considering a boycott in response to El Salvador's cooperation with Trump’s defiance of court orders regarding migrant treatment.
• Notable Quote:
  • Allison Gill: "Governor Pritzker is reviewing state contracts with El Salvador to counteract federal defiance of court orders."

6. Trump’s Stance on Immigration and DOJ Funding Cuts

• Timestamp [07:15]
• Overview: The Trump administration expressed intentions to deport undocumented immigrants without trials, challenging constitutional due process rights. Concurrently, the Department of Justice terminated funding for the bipartisan Prison Rape Elimination Act, undermining efforts to combat sexual assault in correctional facilities.
• Notable Quotes:
  • Dana Goldberg [07:15]: "Insane fascism."
  • Allison Gill [08:31]: "Mr. Trump falsely claimed that countries like Congo and Venezuela had emptied their prisons into the United States..."

7. Hyattsville Police Department Clarifies Gang Affiliation

• Timestamp [11:31]
• Overview: The Hyattsville Police Department officially stated that Abrego Garcia was never identified as a gang member, countering allegations used to justify his detention and highlighting potential misuse of law enforcement classifications.

8. Pentagon's Makeup Studio Controversy

• Timestamp [17:37]
• Overview: Defense Secretary Pete Kegseth ordered the installation of a makeup studio adjacent to the Pentagon’s press briefing room. Critics raised concerns over the expenditure amidst calls for federal cost-cutting, framing it as an example of misplaced priorities within the administration.
• Notable Quote:
  • Dana Goldberg [18:34]: "No, this is."

Interview with Ophelia Yheskel, Director of External Affairs for the Democratic Governors Association

Timestamp [23:10]

Discussion Highlights:

1. Importance of Democratic Governors:

   • Ophelia Yheskel: Emphasizes that governors are crucial in the current political climate, serving as a bulwark against federal overreach and protecting state constituents’ rights.
   • Notable Quote [24:14]: "Who your governor is has never mattered more than it does right now."

2. Protecting Communities from Federal Policies:

   • Governor Katie Hobbs: Vetoed a bill requiring local law enforcement to assist ICE with deportation policies, showcasing state resistance to federal immigration enforcement tactics.

3. Collaborative Efforts and Information Sharing:

   • Governors frequently communicate to share strategies and best practices, such as Governor Walz’s expansion of school meal programs and Governor Shapiro’s legal actions to unlock federal funds.
   • Notable Quote [29:02]: "They turn to each other for advice quite a lot, actually."

4. Managing Federal Program Dismantling:

   • Governors are preparing to manage programs previously handled federally, advocating for continued state-level support and leveraging legal tools to maintain funding streams.
   • Ophelia Yheskel: Highlights Governor Evers and Governor Shapiro's successes in court to protect state interests.

5. Upcoming Governors' Races:

   • Ophelia Yheskel: Highlights crucial upcoming gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey, emphasizing their significance in maintaining Democratic leadership and countering Republican influence.
   • Notable Quote [31:46]: "We've got two big governor's races this year... really key."

6. Call to Action:

   • Listeners are encouraged to engage with the Democratic Governors Association by texting "DemGovs" to 30201 to support Democratic candidates and initiatives.

Good News Segment

Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg transition to a lighter segment featuring listener submissions, sharing personal stories, photos of pets, and positive community developments. Highlights include:

• Listener Corrections: Clarifications on pronunciations and anecdotes, such as the decline of Donald Trump yard signs in certain areas.
• Personal Stories: Veronica shares her journey as a trans woman and parent, highlighting how the podcast has been a lifeline during stressful political times.
• Community Highlights: Mitch recounts his experience witnessing effective local democracy in Virginia, where public feedback led to the thwarting of a mayor’s attempt to disband the town police department.
• Heartwarming Photos: Listeners share adorable pictures of their pets, adding a personal and uplifting touch to the episode.

Conclusion

Allison Gill and Dana Goldberg wrap up the episode by emphasizing the importance of community action and staying informed. They encourage listeners to continue supporting progressive initiatives and engage with local and state representatives to uphold democratic values.

Final Quotes:

• Allison Gill: "Take care of yourselves, take care of each other, take care of the planet, take care of your mental health, and take care of your family."
• Dana Goldberg: "I'm not with you tomorrow, so I will miss you dearly. But I'll be back in your ears Monday morning."

Credits

The Daily Beans is produced by Alison Gill with Dana Goldberg as co-host. The production team includes Desiree McFarlane (Sound Design and Editing), Joelle Reader (Art and Web Design), and music by They Might Be Giants. The show is part of the MSW Media Network.

For more information or to interact with the hosts, visit mswmedia.com.