Detailed Summary of "The Five" Episode – May 21, 2025
Introduction
In the May 21, 2025 episode of "The Five," hosted by Shannon Bream along with Rosanna Scotto, Harold Ford Jr., Jesse Waters, and Greg Gutfeld, the panel delves into a range of pressing political controversies and current events. The discussion is rich with insights, heated debates, and critical analyses of the political landscape, especially focusing on President Trump’s recent actions and statements, revelations about President Biden’s administration, and the Democratic Party's struggles to find influential voices akin to Joe Rogan.
1. President Trump’s Accusations Against Biden’s Inner Circle [00:00 – 01:33]
Shannon Bream opens the episode by highlighting President Donald Trump's recent tirade against President Joe Biden's inner circle. Trump alleges that Biden is cognitively impaired and accuses his handlers of shielding him from public scrutiny, claiming this constitutes treason at the highest level.
Notable Quote:
President Trump [00:14]:
“Joe Biden was not for open borders. He never talked about open borders where criminals of all kinds, shapes and sizes can flow into our country at will. It was the people that knew he was cognitively impaired and that took over the autopen. They stole the presidency of the United States and put us in great danger. This is treason at the highest level.”
2. Revelations from a New Book on Biden’s Decline [01:33 – 05:17]
The panel discusses a bombshell book unveiling shocking details about President Biden’s declining health and the influence of those around him. Notably, Dick Tapper, one of the authors, claims that Hunter Biden effectively acted as a chief of staff, making crucial decisions behind the scenes.
Notable Quotes:
Harold Ford Jr. [02:09]:
“Hunter was driving the decision making for the family in a way that people, he was almost like a chief of staff. I think he is provably, demonstrably unethical, sleazy and prone to horrible decisions.”
Harold Ford Jr. [02:25]:
“After his brother died, he cheated on his wife with his brother's widow and then got her addicted to crack.”
Jesse Waters criticizes Biden’s recent town hall, suggesting it was staged due to concerns over Biden's ability to articulate his thoughts effectively.
Notable Quote:
Jesse Waters [03:19]:
“This is like a quarterback who can't even make it through practice... They sent him out on Sunday and he gets knocked unconscious on the first drive. Then what happens? You got to send in the backup, Kamala Harris.”
Shannon Bream emphasizes the widespread nature of the dysfunction, noting over 200 people have spoken to the authors, indicating deep-rooted issues within the administration.
Notable Point:
Shannon Bream [05:17]:
“200 plus people have talked to them. Now, it's a question...”
3. Implications for the 2028 Election and Democratic Vetting Process [05:41 – 07:24]
The discussion shifts to the potential impact of these revelations on future elections, particularly the 2028 race. Harold Ford Jr. stresses the necessity for the Democratic Party to enhance its vetting processes to prevent similar scandals.
Notable Point:
Shannon Bream [07:05]:
“Was the idea just to get him elected in 24 and then do the switcheroo with the vice president, did they really think he could go another four years?”
4. Democrats' Struggle to Cultivate Influential Voices Like Joe Rogan [20:15 – 25:22]
The panel criticizes the Democratic Party’s efforts to emulate the success of influential figures like Joe Rogan. They argue that Democrats are failing to create authentic, relatable voices that resonate with younger audiences, unlike Rogan who built his brand organically and maintains a strong, independent presence.
Notable Points:
Jesse Waters [25:42]:
“There's no hidden, undiscovered liberal Rogan just waiting to be discovered.”
Harold Ford Jr. [27:17]:
“...they lost him. And there will never be another Rogan.”
Harold Ford Jr. emphasizes the importance of authenticity, comparing Joe Rogan and Donald Trump as exemplars who communicate directly and effectively without relying on traditional party structures.
Notable Quote:
Harold Ford Jr. [28:42]:
“That's why Joe Rogan is such a powerful, powerful figure...”
5. Secretary Marco Rubio’s Confrontations in Congress [13:24 – 19:49]
Greg Gutfeld and Jesse Waters discuss Secretary of State Marco Rubio's aggressive stance during congressional hearings. They critique Democratic lawmakers for prioritizing grandstanding over substantive dialogue, portraying Rubio as a tough and effective leader confronting the opposition.
Notable Quotes:
Greg Gutfeld [13:24]:
“You presided over the destruction of the health of the American people.”
Jesse Waters [14:15]:
“Please, Senator...”
The exchanges highlight Rubio's confrontational style and the panel's disapproval of the Democrats' handling of these hearings.
6. Elon Musk’s Political Involvement and Announcement [29:01 – 35:25]
The panel covers Elon Musk’s announcement about stepping back from political spending. Greg Gutfeld interprets this move as a response to backlash and media persecution, including being labeled a Nazi. The discussion examines Musk's influence on politics and the broader implications for his businesses.
Notable Quotes:
Greg Gutfeld [29:57]:
“I'm going to do a lot less in the future.”
Harold Ford Jr. [33:58]:
“Don't look down on him...”
Harold Ford Jr. offers a balanced perspective, praising Musk's entrepreneurial achievements while acknowledging the challenges of balancing business with political involvement.
Notable Quote:
Harold Ford Jr. [35:25]:
“...government shouldn't look down on people in business and vice versa.”
7. Gen Z and Honesty in Job Applications [35:46 – 38:44]
The panel discusses a new survey revealing that nearly half of Gen Z applicants admit to lying on their job applications. The conversation centers on the types of embellishments made and the broader implications for workplace integrity.
Notable Points:
Jesse Waters [37:53]:
“...or lying about their height. In your face, Greg.”
Rosanna Scotto [37:29]:
“...you have to use the right words, like Greg said...”
Shannon Bream advises against dishonesty, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic expectations and maintaining integrity.
Notable Quote:
Shannon Bream [37:49]:
“Don't lie. But there is a way to really polish it up and make it look good.”
8. "One More Thing" Segment: Scott Adams’ Cancer Battle [38:48 – 40:54]
In the "One More Thing" segment, Greg Gutfeld discusses the tragic news of Scott Adams, creator of "Dilbert," being diagnosed with incurable cancer. He praises Adams' influence and mentorship, highlighting his personal connection and the positive impact Adams has had on listeners’ lives.
Notable Quote:
Greg Gutfeld [38:56]:
“He's been a mentor of mine. I wake up every morning and I listen to Coffee with Scott Adams, which you can get on YouTube. And it has changed my life.”
Closing Remarks
The episode wraps up with promotional segments and brief mentions of upcoming discussions, maintaining the show's characteristic blend of political commentary and light-hearted banter.
Conclusion
The May 21, 2025 episode of "The Five" provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of significant political issues, including President Trump’s accusations against President Biden’s administration, the influence of Hunter Biden, the Democratic Party’s challenges in cultivating authentic influencers, and Elon Musk’s complex role in politics. The panel's dynamic discussions, enriched with notable quotes and critical insights, offer listeners a thorough understanding of the current political climate and its implications for future elections.