The David Pakman Show – Episode Summary

Episode Date: November 26, 2025

Title: "Leaked call exposes Trump as approval craters, Republicans raise alarm"

Episode Overview

In this episode, David Pakman breaks down explosive news of a leaked call in which Donald Trump's envoy explains to Russian officials how to manipulate Trump with flattery. Pakman analyzes the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy, Trump's cratering approval in Republican states, chaos within his administration, and widespread concern among GOP operatives about the approaching 2026 midterm elections.

The show combines sharp political analysis, media critique, and a critical look at the facts and spin surrounding the Trump administration’s actions, approval ratings, and prospects for his party.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Leaked Call: How to Manipulate Trump (05:56–12:12)

Bombshell Revelation: A leaked phone call catches Trump envoy Steve Witkoff coaching Putin’s advisor Yuri Ushakov on exactly how to flatter Trump—suggesting praise for Trump's supposed Gaza deal would soften him for a Russia-friendly peace plan on Ukraine.
Pakman’s Analysis:
- This isn’t about diplomatic strategy, but pure ego massaging—a humiliation and a serious national security risk.
- Quote:
  
  “Our adversaries are quickly learning...our foreign policy is powered by memes, vanity, compliments, and ego massaging. That’s a real national security risk.”
  (09:59, David Pakman)
Transcript Excerpt Highlights:
- Witkoff: “Here’s how you placate Trump...tell him he’s a genius. Tell him his deal in Gaza is just brilliant.”
- Ushakov: “We will say this, we will say that, we will say whatever.”
Trump’s Reaction:
- Instead of denying or disciplining, Trump says, “This is negotiation.” (11:53)
- Pakman’s Analysis:
  
  “Trump doesn’t even understand that he got played. That is what makes him such an easy mark.”
  (12:12, David Pakman)

2. Trump’s Losses & Disconnection from Reality (13:06–18:12)

On Ukraine Peace Deal:
- Trump claims Russia’s only “concession” is “they stop fighting”—ignoring that the deal lets Russia keep seized Ukrainian land.
- Quote:
  
  “The word ‘more’ there is doing some heavy lifting, because this deal lets Russia keep a bunch of the territory that it stole.”
  (13:30, David Pakman)
On Trade and Tariffs:
- Pakman points out Trump takes credit for marginally restoring trade with China after his own tariffs previously tanked soybean sales.
- Quote:
  
  “Trump set a massive blaze and now he’s putting out the shed. The fire is off in the shed, even though it’s still burning in the house. And Trump wants to be greeted as a hero for partially putting out that fire.”
  (14:59, David Pakman)

3. Domestic Turmoil: FBI and Losing Political Cases (16:25–18:12)

On Comey and James Prosecutions:
- Trump refuses to admit defeat after prosecutions are tossed, insisting, “They got out on a technicality...if you look at the actual charges, boy are they guilty.” (16:26, Political Analyst 2, as Trump)
On FBI Director Cash Patel:
- Scandal surrounds Patel for misuse of resources; insiders expect Trump to replace him soon, despite Trump insisting Patel is “doing a great job.” (17:24–18:12)

4. Trump's Shrinking Schedule and Visible Decline (40:56–51:09)

Pulled Back from Duty:
- NYT investigation shows Trump’s public schedule reduced by 40% compared to his prior term, often working only noon to 5 PM, with diminished extracurriculars (even golf).
- Quote:
  
  “Trump’s day is often now not starting until after lunch anymore...How can you run the most powerful government on earth from noon to 5?”
  (41:59, David Pakman)
Comparison with Biden:
- The right once obsessed over Biden’s early “lids,” but now ignores Trump’s sharper decline.
- Quote:
  
  “If Biden had a 40% schedule reduction...would they shrug?...Well, we know the answer because we saw it while Biden was president.”
  (46:56, David Pakman)
Physical & Cognitive Decline:
- Increasingly slurred speech, falling asleep in meetings, unexplained medical visits add to reports from experts.

5. Trump’s Unfactual Claims and Public Meltdowns (47:16–50:48)

False Claims at Turkey Pardon:
- Trump declares D.C. had “not a single murder in six months”—blatantly false (8 murders in October alone).
- On Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker:
  - Trump calls him a “big fat slob,” highlighting his tendency towards personal insult.
- Ego & Authoritarian Bluster:
  - Rambling about crime reduction and deploying the National Guard; stories often disconnected from reality.
- Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon:
  - Trump appears confused while pardoning the turkeys, “Let’s go and give Gobble Waddle...Waddles, by the way, is missing in action. But that’s okay...”
    (50:48, Donald Trump)

6. Approval Ratings Plummet in Red States, GOP Panic (28:17–29:17, 63:23–66:53)

Statistical Collapse:
- Trump’s net approval now negative in 20 states he easily won in 2024. Oklahoma, once +27, now -7—a 34-point swing.
- Quote:
  
  “That is a shift so large it is almost unprecedented.”
  (28:17, David Pakman)
- Only Idaho sees a net positive Trump approval.
Electoral Implications:
- Fox poll: 76% of voters say economy is not doing well.
- Democrats up in Congressional ballot by 2 points since shutdown.
Republican Alarm:
- Laura Ingraham warns, “The midterms right now look ugly...” and, “We are sliding towards total destruction in 2026 unless something changes.” (63:23)
- Pakman explains midterm history: "For presidents with approval under 50, the party in power loses 37 seats..." (65:25, David Pakman)

7. 2028 GOP: JD Vance as Trumpism's Future? (34:24–35:08)

Turning Point USA (TPUSA) Moves:
- Erica Kirk confirms TPUSA is already “laying the groundwork for JD [Vance] to be the nominee in 2028.” (35:08, Erica Kirk)
- Pakman draws distinction:
  
  “Vance is not really Trump’s guy...He’s Peter Thiel’s guy.”
  (36:15, David Pakman)
- Predicts a possible future: “If JD Vance does end up leading the Republican Party...it’s going to be potentially even more authoritarian...shaped by the ideological fantasies of tech oligarchs...” (36:45, David Pakman)

8. Media Spin, Messaging, and Gas Price “Relativism” (53:34–59:36)

Thanksgiving Meal & Walmart:
- Thanksgiving dinners are “cheaper” this year only because meals are smaller and brand-name products replaced with generics.
- Pakman’s Critique:
  
  “It’s not about elitism...it’s objectively cheaper [because] they’re using cheaper products.” (54:01, David Pakman)
Fox News on Gas Prices:
- Reporter says, “People have conflicting views about gas prices” (despite showing the price is essentially unchanged—$3.05/gal).
- Pakman’s Take:
  
  “Fox is suggesting gas prices are like a movie review...some people believe gas is cheap, some people believe gas is expensive.”
  (59:36, David Pakman)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Trump’s Foreign Policy Vulnerability:

“Whoever flatters Trump the most gets what they want. If praising Trump gets you American concessions, then our allies should be terrified, and our adversaries are taking notes.”
(09:21, David Pakman)
On Red State Approval Collapse:

“This is not a one state issue. This is not a regional decline. This is a broad national collapse.”
(28:28, David Pakman)
On “Gas Prices Are an Opinion”:

“Gas prices are not a vibe...A gallon of gas doesn’t cost what you feel it costs when you wake up in the morning.”
(59:36, David Pakman)
Laura Ingraham Raises Alarm:

“The midterms right now look ugly unless the Republicans really get serious.”
(63:23, Laura Ingraham)
Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon Weirdness:

“Let’s go and give Gobble Waddle. Waddles, by the way, is missing in action. But that’s okay. We’ll pretend Waddle is here...”
(50:48, Donald Trump)

Timestamps for Important Segments

Leaked Trump-Russia call breakdown: 05:56–12:12
Trump’s responses & failures (trade, Comey prosecutions): 13:06–18:12
Cash Patel’s looming ouster (FBI chaos): 18:14–21:29
JD Vance and post-Trump MAGA: 34:24–36:45
Trump’s schedule shrink & cognitive concerns: 40:56–46:56
Turkey pardon & Trump’s public blunders: 47:16–51:09
GOP panic over midterms & historic context: 63:23–66:53
Thanksgiving meal “cost” & gas price fact/spin: 53:34–59:36

Episode Takeaways

Major National Security Concern: The leaked call confirms foreign leaders can manipulate Trump with targeted praise, undermining American interests.
Administration in Disarray: Internal leaks, high-level rumors (FBI, prosecutions), and staff chaos highlight instability.
Approval Freefall: Trump faces cratering support even in traditional red states, stirring GOP fears ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Dwindling Stamina and Public Confusion: Trump’s sharply reduced schedule, decline in cognitive performance, and bizarre public appearances mirror concerns once weaponized against Biden.
GOP’s Future & Vance’s Rise: Turning Point USA is pushing JD Vance as the next standard bearer, but Pakman warns this may mean a shift from populist Trumpism to a more technocratic, oligarch-driven MAGA 2.0.
Media Manipulation: Gas prices and inflation used as political footballs—conservative outlets promote “opinions” on indisputable facts to protect perceptions.
Warning for Democrats & Republicans: Pakman believes anti-corruption is the best bipartisan rallying point as GOP fractures become clear, and the 2026 midterms loom.

This episode offers an in-depth, critical, and sometimes darkly comic look at the mounting crises and contradictions at the heart of the Trump presidency and Republican politics in late 2025, pulling no punches on the risks for American democracy.

The David Pakman Show – Episode Summary

Episode Date: November 26, 2025

Title: "Leaked call exposes Trump as approval craters, Republicans raise alarm"

Episode Overview

The show combines sharp political analysis, media critique, and a critical look at the facts and spin surrounding the Trump administration’s actions, approval ratings, and prospects for his party.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Leaked Call: How to Manipulate Trump (05:56–12:12)

Bombshell Revelation: A leaked phone call catches Trump envoy Steve Witkoff coaching Putin’s advisor Yuri Ushakov on exactly how to flatter Trump—suggesting praise for Trump's supposed Gaza deal would soften him for a Russia-friendly peace plan on Ukraine.
Pakman’s Analysis:
- This isn’t about diplomatic strategy, but pure ego massaging—a humiliation and a serious national security risk.
- Quote:
  
  “Our adversaries are quickly learning...our foreign policy is powered by memes, vanity, compliments, and ego massaging. That’s a real national security risk.”
  (09:59, David Pakman)
Transcript Excerpt Highlights:
- Witkoff: “Here’s how you placate Trump...tell him he’s a genius. Tell him his deal in Gaza is just brilliant.”
- Ushakov: “We will say this, we will say that, we will say whatever.”
Trump’s Reaction:
- Instead of denying or disciplining, Trump says, “This is negotiation.” (11:53)
- Pakman’s Analysis:
  
  “Trump doesn’t even understand that he got played. That is what makes him such an easy mark.”
  (12:12, David Pakman)

2. Trump’s Losses & Disconnection from Reality (13:06–18:12)

On Ukraine Peace Deal:
- Trump claims Russia’s only “concession” is “they stop fighting”—ignoring that the deal lets Russia keep seized Ukrainian land.
- Quote:
  
  “The word ‘more’ there is doing some heavy lifting, because this deal lets Russia keep a bunch of the territory that it stole.”
  (13:30, David Pakman)
On Trade and Tariffs:
- Pakman points out Trump takes credit for marginally restoring trade with China after his own tariffs previously tanked soybean sales.
- Quote:
  
  “Trump set a massive blaze and now he’s putting out the shed. The fire is off in the shed, even though it’s still burning in the house. And Trump wants to be greeted as a hero for partially putting out that fire.”
  (14:59, David Pakman)

3. Domestic Turmoil: FBI and Losing Political Cases (16:25–18:12)

On Comey and James Prosecutions:
- Trump refuses to admit defeat after prosecutions are tossed, insisting, “They got out on a technicality...if you look at the actual charges, boy are they guilty.” (16:26, Political Analyst 2, as Trump)
On FBI Director Cash Patel:
- Scandal surrounds Patel for misuse of resources; insiders expect Trump to replace him soon, despite Trump insisting Patel is “doing a great job.” (17:24–18:12)

4. Trump's Shrinking Schedule and Visible Decline (40:56–51:09)

Pulled Back from Duty:
- NYT investigation shows Trump’s public schedule reduced by 40% compared to his prior term, often working only noon to 5 PM, with diminished extracurriculars (even golf).
- Quote:
  
  “Trump’s day is often now not starting until after lunch anymore...How can you run the most powerful government on earth from noon to 5?”
  (41:59, David Pakman)
Comparison with Biden:
- The right once obsessed over Biden’s early “lids,” but now ignores Trump’s sharper decline.
- Quote:
  
  “If Biden had a 40% schedule reduction...would they shrug?...Well, we know the answer because we saw it while Biden was president.”
  (46:56, David Pakman)
Physical & Cognitive Decline:
- Increasingly slurred speech, falling asleep in meetings, unexplained medical visits add to reports from experts.

5. Trump’s Unfactual Claims and Public Meltdowns (47:16–50:48)

False Claims at Turkey Pardon:
- Trump declares D.C. had “not a single murder in six months”—blatantly false (8 murders in October alone).
- On Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker:
  - Trump calls him a “big fat slob,” highlighting his tendency towards personal insult.
- Ego & Authoritarian Bluster:
  - Rambling about crime reduction and deploying the National Guard; stories often disconnected from reality.
- Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon:
  - Trump appears confused while pardoning the turkeys, “Let’s go and give Gobble Waddle...Waddles, by the way, is missing in action. But that’s okay...”
    (50:48, Donald Trump)

6. Approval Ratings Plummet in Red States, GOP Panic (28:17–29:17, 63:23–66:53)

Statistical Collapse:
- Trump’s net approval now negative in 20 states he easily won in 2024. Oklahoma, once +27, now -7—a 34-point swing.
- Quote:
  
  “That is a shift so large it is almost unprecedented.”
  (28:17, David Pakman)
- Only Idaho sees a net positive Trump approval.
Electoral Implications:
- Fox poll: 76% of voters say economy is not doing well.
- Democrats up in Congressional ballot by 2 points since shutdown.
Republican Alarm:
- Laura Ingraham warns, “The midterms right now look ugly...” and, “We are sliding towards total destruction in 2026 unless something changes.” (63:23)
- Pakman explains midterm history: "For presidents with approval under 50, the party in power loses 37 seats..." (65:25, David Pakman)

7. 2028 GOP: JD Vance as Trumpism's Future? (34:24–35:08)

Turning Point USA (TPUSA) Moves:
- Erica Kirk confirms TPUSA is already “laying the groundwork for JD [Vance] to be the nominee in 2028.” (35:08, Erica Kirk)
- Pakman draws distinction:
  
  “Vance is not really Trump’s guy...He’s Peter Thiel’s guy.”
  (36:15, David Pakman)
- Predicts a possible future: “If JD Vance does end up leading the Republican Party...it’s going to be potentially even more authoritarian...shaped by the ideological fantasies of tech oligarchs...” (36:45, David Pakman)

8. Media Spin, Messaging, and Gas Price “Relativism” (53:34–59:36)

Thanksgiving Meal & Walmart:
- Thanksgiving dinners are “cheaper” this year only because meals are smaller and brand-name products replaced with generics.
- Pakman’s Critique:
  
  “It’s not about elitism...it’s objectively cheaper [because] they’re using cheaper products.” (54:01, David Pakman)
Fox News on Gas Prices:
- Reporter says, “People have conflicting views about gas prices” (despite showing the price is essentially unchanged—$3.05/gal).
- Pakman’s Take:
  
  “Fox is suggesting gas prices are like a movie review...some people believe gas is cheap, some people believe gas is expensive.”
  (59:36, David Pakman)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Trump’s Foreign Policy Vulnerability:

“Whoever flatters Trump the most gets what they want. If praising Trump gets you American concessions, then our allies should be terrified, and our adversaries are taking notes.”
(09:21, David Pakman)
On Red State Approval Collapse:

“This is not a one state issue. This is not a regional decline. This is a broad national collapse.”
(28:28, David Pakman)
On “Gas Prices Are an Opinion”:

“Gas prices are not a vibe...A gallon of gas doesn’t cost what you feel it costs when you wake up in the morning.”
(59:36, David Pakman)
Laura Ingraham Raises Alarm:

“The midterms right now look ugly unless the Republicans really get serious.”
(63:23, Laura Ingraham)
Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon Weirdness:

“Let’s go and give Gobble Waddle. Waddles, by the way, is missing in action. But that’s okay. We’ll pretend Waddle is here...”
(50:48, Donald Trump)

Timestamps for Important Segments

Leaked Trump-Russia call breakdown: 05:56–12:12
Trump’s responses & failures (trade, Comey prosecutions): 13:06–18:12
Cash Patel’s looming ouster (FBI chaos): 18:14–21:29
JD Vance and post-Trump MAGA: 34:24–36:45
Trump’s schedule shrink & cognitive concerns: 40:56–46:56
Turkey pardon & Trump’s public blunders: 47:16–51:09
GOP panic over midterms & historic context: 63:23–66:53
Thanksgiving meal “cost” & gas price fact/spin: 53:34–59:36

Episode Takeaways

Major National Security Concern: The leaked call confirms foreign leaders can manipulate Trump with targeted praise, undermining American interests.
Administration in Disarray: Internal leaks, high-level rumors (FBI, prosecutions), and staff chaos highlight instability.
Approval Freefall: Trump faces cratering support even in traditional red states, stirring GOP fears ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Dwindling Stamina and Public Confusion: Trump’s sharply reduced schedule, decline in cognitive performance, and bizarre public appearances mirror concerns once weaponized against Biden.
GOP’s Future & Vance’s Rise: Turning Point USA is pushing JD Vance as the next standard bearer, but Pakman warns this may mean a shift from populist Trumpism to a more technocratic, oligarch-driven MAGA 2.0.
Media Manipulation: Gas prices and inflation used as political footballs—conservative outlets promote “opinions” on indisputable facts to protect perceptions.
Warning for Democrats & Republicans: Pakman believes anti-corruption is the best bipartisan rallying point as GOP fractures become clear, and the 2026 midterms loom.

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11/26/25: Leaked call exposes Trump as approval craters, Republicans raise alarm

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Summary

The David Pakman Show – Episode Summary

Episode Date: November 26, 2025

Title: "Leaked call exposes Trump as approval craters, Republicans raise alarm"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Leaked Call: How to Manipulate Trump (05:56–12:12)

2. Trump’s Losses & Disconnection from Reality (13:06–18:12)

3. Domestic Turmoil: FBI and Losing Political Cases (16:25–18:12)

4. Trump's Shrinking Schedule and Visible Decline (40:56–51:09)

5. Trump’s Unfactual Claims and Public Meltdowns (47:16–50:48)

6. Approval Ratings Plummet in Red States, GOP Panic (28:17–29:17, 63:23–66:53)

7. 2028 GOP: JD Vance as Trumpism's Future? (34:24–35:08)

8. Media Spin, Messaging, and Gas Price “Relativism” (53:34–59:36)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Episode Takeaways

Summary

The David Pakman Show – Episode Summary

Episode Date: November 26, 2025

Title: "Leaked call exposes Trump as approval craters, Republicans raise alarm"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Leaked Call: How to Manipulate Trump (05:56–12:12)

2. Trump’s Losses & Disconnection from Reality (13:06–18:12)

3. Domestic Turmoil: FBI and Losing Political Cases (16:25–18:12)

4. Trump's Shrinking Schedule and Visible Decline (40:56–51:09)

5. Trump’s Unfactual Claims and Public Meltdowns (47:16–50:48)

6. Approval Ratings Plummet in Red States, GOP Panic (28:17–29:17, 63:23–66:53)

7. 2028 GOP: JD Vance as Trumpism's Future? (34:24–35:08)

8. Media Spin, Messaging, and Gas Price “Relativism” (53:34–59:36)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Episode Takeaways