The Daily Beast Podcast: How The Trump-Musk Bromance Ends: Michael Wolff
Release Date: October 31, 2024
Hosts: Joanna Coles and Samantha Bee
Guest: Michael Wolff

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Daily Beast Podcast, hosts Joanna Coles and Samantha Bee delve into the tumultuous landscape of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. With insightful commentary and exclusive interviews, they explore the intricate dynamics between Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and other key players influencing the political arena. The episode features a deep dive with renowned journalist Michael Wolff, whose firsthand experience and provocative insights shed light on the inner workings of Trump's campaign and the broader implications for American democracy.

Steve Bannon's Release and Influence

[09:07] Harry Lambert:
Steve Bannon, Trump's former chief strategist, has recently been released from a four-month incarceration related to the January 6th Capitol riot. His reunion with the Trump campaign marks a significant moment, as Lambert describes Bannon's attempt to regain influence:

“Bannon walks in in his customary barber double shirt, sort of flowing hair, seemingly picked up a tan in prison... This is the Trump playbook.”

Bannon's press conference revealed his continued commitment to Trump's agenda, despite being sidelined by Elon Musk's rising prominence within the MAGA movement. Lambert notes the contrast between Bannon's previous disdain for Musk and his current attempt to align more closely with Trump:

“He has been completely displaced, not just by the people running Trump's campaign... but by Musk himself... an old gangland kingpin coming out of jail and realizing that the gang's been remade without him.”

Washington Post's Endorsement Withdrawal and Bezos' Role

The episode critically examines the Washington Post's recent decision to retract its longstanding endorsement of Kamala Harris. Joanna Coles highlights the financial and reputational struggles faced by the newspaper under Jeff Bezos' ownership:

“They’ve lost between 10 and $30 million... It's extraordinary they can even survive that.”

Harry Lambert discusses the implications of Bezos' focus on his space venture, Blue Origin, suggesting that this shift has contributed to the Post's editorial indecision:

“He stepped down from Amazon day-to-day control to focus on Blue Origin... It's all very well for him to say that, but the reality is... he’s focusing on his space company.”

Michael Wolff's Insights on Trump's Campaign

Michael Wolff provides an unfiltered look into the state of Trump's campaign, emphasizing the chaotic and unpredictable nature of both the candidate and his team.

Internal Campaign Dynamics

Wolff describes the campaign atmosphere as one of constant fluctuation between euphoria and despair, mirroring Trump's unpredictable behavior:

“[Trump] is in the same position that everyone else is. They know absolutely nothing, which is really rare for a presidential campaign... when Donald Trump loses his shit, it's really serious.”

Steve Bannon's Role

Wolff criticizes Bannon's efforts to reassert himself within the campaign, noting his discomfort with elite media interactions and his diminished influence compared to Elon Musk:

“He is a member of the counter elite. He's not in any way actually interested in his base.”

Trump and Elon Musk Dynamics

The hosts and Wolff explore the strained relationship between Trump and Musk, highlighting how Musk's ownership of platforms like X (formerly Twitter) has marginalized Bannon and altered the power dynamics within the MAGA movement:

“Elon has gone on to build a space company that leads in every domain, whereas Blue Origin... has done nothing of any real effect.”

Epstein Relationship

Wolff controversially discusses Trump's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, revealing a deeper, darker connection that has long been overshadowed by other narratives:

“Epstein was a very good source for me when I was writing Fire and Fury. So I thought, let's just put it on the table.”

Interview with Michael Wolff

In an exclusive interview, Michael Wolff articulates his observations on Trump's unwavering influence and the inherent instability within his campaign team.

Campaign's Emotional Rollercoaster

Wolff observes the emotional volatility within the Trump campaign, driven by Trump's erratic behavior:

“They plunge into despair and think that they're gonna lose... when Donald Trump loses his shit, it's really serious.”

Lack of Cohesion and Rationality

He highlights the absence of strategic cohesion, attributing it to Trump's unpredictable leadership style:

“It's almost impossible to understand... there's no sense that he has to cater to anyone.”

Prospects of Trump's Future

Wolff speculates on the potential outcomes for Trump, suggesting that his options are limited and fraught with instability:

“Trump either wins or Trump says he's won.”

Impact of Elon Musk

He underscores Musk's growing influence, contrasting it with Bannon's declining relevance:

“Elon, being Trump's new best friend, will benefit on the space front... Bannon can set things in motion that then ripples... but Musk is atop it.”

Interview with Senator Cory Booker

Senator Cory Booker joins the conversation to discuss his presidential campaign and the pervasive social divisions undermining American unity.

Addressing Social Divisions

Booker emphasizes the importance of rebuilding community and combating loneliness, which he identifies as significant issues exacerbated by social media:

“Men are deeply unhappy. There's a loneliness problem. Less friends, less connection, less community.”

Campaign Strategies and Purpose

He reflects on his motivations for running, focusing on elevating higher virtues and fostering inclusivity over partisan conflicts:

“I felt that in the Democratic field, there was nobody that could carry the urgency I felt... I ran for a real purpose.”

Engagement and Voter Outreach

Booker shares personal anecdotes illustrating the deep-seated political tribalism affecting voter behavior, advocating for direct engagement to bridge divides:

“When you pull the major issues in America, from guns to abortion, we all agree on so much that could advance the cause of our country, but we allow our politics to tear us apart.”

Election Night Plans and Personal Reflections

Joanna Coles and Samantha Bee discuss their election night strategies, emphasizing the high-stakes environment and the emotional toll it takes on everyone involved.

Joanna's Plan
Joanna plans to remain in the newsroom, fully alert and prepared for any election outcome:

“My election night plan is gonna be in the office. The newsroom will be on full alert.”

Samantha's Strategy
Samantha intends to stay busy with friends and personal activities to manage the stress:

“I'm embracing keeping busy. And I'm gonna go to the dentist because that feels very on brand for an election day.”

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on the fragile state of American democracy and the critical importance of voter engagement. Hosts encourage listeners to participate actively in the electoral process to safeguard democratic norms:

“Phone banking is the key... What you do in these final days matter and what will be your best measure of your devotion to this country.”

Joanna and Samantha sign off by urging listeners to support the podcast and stay informed, promising continued in-depth analysis and engaging conversations in future episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Harry Lambert on Bannon:
  “This is the Trump playbook.” ([09:32])

• Michael Wolff on Trump's Campaign:
  “They know absolutely nothing, which is really rare for a presidential campaign.” ([27:38])

• Cory Booker on Community:
  “Men are deeply unhappy. There's a loneliness problem. Less friends, less connection, less community.” ([53:05])

• Joanna Coles on Voter Engagement:
  “Phone banking is the key.” ([57:56])

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners who haven't tuned in.