Podcast Summary: "Red Alert For Dems In The Midwest" on The Five

Episode Information:

• Title: The Five
• Host/Author: FOX News Podcasts
• Episode: Red Alert For Dems In The Midwest
• Release Date: July 17, 2025
• Description: The Five delves into the hottest topics stirring public conversation, featuring diverse voices that dissect, debate, and sometimes debunk the most pressing news stories, controversies, and issues of the day.

1. Introduction: Democrats Facing Midterm Challenges [01:04 - 02:38]

The episode opens with Sandra Smith addressing the current political landscape, highlighting a concerning trend for Democrats ahead of the midterm elections. Recent polling data reveals a stark downturn for Congressional Democrats:

• 19% of respondents approve of how Democrats in Congress are handling their duties.
• A significant 72% express disapproval.

Sandra Smith questions the party's strategy to remedy this decline, noting, “Only 19% approve of the way the Democrats in Congress are handling their job, while 72% disapprove.” The Democrats seem to be adopting a more confrontational and unfiltered approach, reminiscent of former President Trump’s style.

2. Democrats’ Shift Towards Trump-Style Rhetoric [02:38 - 05:35]

The panel discusses how Democrats are attempting to emulate Trump’s direct and aggressive communication tactics. Sandra Smith references a Washington Post headline stating, “Democrats try a new tone: Less scripted, more cursing. Trumpier insults.” This marks a departure from the traditionally polished Democratic media strategy.

Kellyanne Conway questions the feasibility of this approach:

"No. There's only one Trump, and he's proven that again and again." ([07:38])

Jason Crowe and Donna Tree express skepticism, arguing that the Democrats lack the authentic persona and media presence that Trump possesses. Donna Tree humorously compares the Democrats’ attempts to forced authenticity:

“You can't do a podcast with two dudes sitting next to each other on the same couch. I mean, this is production 101.” ([05:32])

3. Analyzing Approval Ratings and Election Prospects [05:35 - 10:13]

The conversation shifts to broader approval ratings and the potential impact on upcoming elections. Sandra Smith notes:

“We can improve. I would never deny that.” ([05:35])

Despite GOP holding a better position with 33% approval, they also face significant disapproval at 60%. Health care remains a critical issue, with Trump holding a 62% disapproval rating for his handling of the sector—a topic poised to dominate the midterms.

Sandra Smith emphasizes the GOP's challenges:

“64% of Americans say the GOP looks out for the interests of the rich, not the average American.” ([07:30])

4. Border Security and Alligator Alcatraz [14:53 - 22:33]

A significant portion of the discussion centers on border security, specifically the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” detention centers. Jessica Tarlov raises concerns about the conditions and administrative practices:

“There are innocent people and sometimes even American citizens that are being picked up by ICE.” ([19:29])

Kellyanne Conway defends the facilities, portraying them as temporary deterrents rather than punitive measures:

“They are meant to be temporary until you can move people where they belong.” ([16:03])

Sandra Smith and Jason Crowe challenge the effectiveness and humanity of these centers, highlighting reports of inhumane conditions and due process issues.

5. Obama’s Efforts to Re-engage Men and Party Identity Crisis [23:11 - 28:39]

The panel critiques former President Obama’s attempts to address men’s issues, suggesting a misalignment with Democratic strategies. Jason Crowe quotes Obama acknowledging the party's oversight:

“We've rightly tried to invest in girls to make sure there's a level playing field, but we haven't been as willing to be intentional about investing in the boys.” ([23:27])

Kellyanne Conway argues that Obama’s approach exacerbates the Democrats’ identity crisis:

“It's a party that doesn't know what women are. It's a party that doesn't realize that many of us who have boys...”( [25:22])

Sandra Smith echoes the sentiment, pointing out the Democratic Party’s struggle to communicate a clear and consistent message to both men and women.

6. Comedy Segment: Shane Gillis at the ESPYs [31:27 - 34:45]

Transitioning to lighter content, the panel discusses comedian Shane Gillis hosting the ESPYs. The event showcased Gillis's unapologetic humor, targeting both political sides:

“He had great Trump jokes about January 6th and Epstein.” ([34:39])

Jessica Tarlov praises Gillis’s balanced approach:

“He was pretty funny. It's shocking that you missed that one.” ([34:16])

7. Relationship Dynamics: Jason Kelce’s Marriage [36:05 - 39:56]

The episode shifts focus to personal dynamics, featuring a segment on NFL star Jason Kelce and his marriage. The discussion revolves around the concept of "nagging" in relationships:

“Tell me to get my lazy up. And take the goddamn trash out.” ([36:37])

Kellyanne Conway expands on the topic, linking it to broader social issues:

“Women are initiating a lot of divorces now...they feel like they're just doing too many things.” ([37:26])

Jason Crowe humorously suggests an evolutionary perspective:

“Nagging has evolutionary roots...it was important for resource gathering.” ([38:23])

8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts [40:55 - End]

In the concluding segment, the panel wraps up with light-hearted banter and reflections on the evening’s discussions. Jason Crowe shares a trivia fact about Napoleon’s height, dispelling common misconceptions:

“Napoleon was actually 5’6”, slightly taller than the average person of his era.” ([41:35])

The episode ends on a playful note, with Sandra Smith and Jessica Tarlov engaging in humorous exchanges, highlighting the show's blend of serious political discourse and comedic relief.

Notable Quotes:

• Sandra Smith: “Only 19% approve of the way the Democrats in Congress are handling their job, while 72% disapprove.” ([02:12])

• Kellyanne Conway: “No. There's only one Trump, and he's proven that again and again.” ([07:38])

• Donna Tree: “You can't do a podcast with two dudes sitting next to each other on the same couch. I mean, this is production 101.” ([05:32])

• Jason Crowe: “I have no idea.” ([13:35])

• Jessica Tarlov: “That does not mean that it is acceptable to be running a facility that dozens of lawmakers... have reported is not 24 hours a day air conditioned.” ([19:14])

• Kellyanne Conway: “What is a man? Great. I am highly aware of what men and women are and how babies are made...” ([28:30])

Conclusion:

In "Red Alert For Dems In The Midwest," The Five presents a critical analysis of the Democratic Party's declining approval ratings and their attempts to recalibrate their political strategies. Through incisive commentary and panelist debates, the episode explores themes of authenticity in political communication, border security controversies, and the party's struggle to resonate with key demographics ahead of the midterm elections. Balancing serious political discourse with moments of humor and personal anecdotes, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive overview of the current challenges facing Democrats in the American political landscape.