Podcast Summary: The Jim Acosta Show
Episode Title: Army Veteran and Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gunnell on Trump Disrespecting the Fallen at Arlington National Cemetery and Michael Cohen Returns for Michael Monday
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: Jim Acosta
Introduction
On this poignant Memorial Day episode of The Jim Acosta Show, host Jim Acosta delves into the troubling actions of former President Donald Trump during solemn national observances. Acosta is joined by two distinguished guests: former Capitol Police officer and Army Sergeant Aquilino Gunnell, a hero from January 6th, and former Trump advisor Michael Cohen, returning for a segment dubbed "Michael Monday." The conversation centers around Trump's disrespectful behavior at Arlington National Cemetery and West Point, the implications for national honor, and the ongoing fallout from the January 6th insurrection.
Donald Trump's Conduct on Memorial Day
Disrespect at Arlington National Cemetery
Jim Acosta opens the episode by condemning Trump's actions on Memorial Day, highlighting his inappropriate focus on personal achievements rather than honoring the fallen.
Jim Acosta [00:49]: "To me, it's not a place to do politics. Unfortunately, Trump was there earlier today. He was bragging that the World Cup and the Olympics will be happening in the US while he is president... God did that."
Trump's Comments at West Point
Acosta continues to criticize Trump’s remarks at West Point, where he derailed a traditional commencement address with irrelevant anecdotes about "trophy wives" and yachts.
Jim Acosta [02:37]: "Could you say trophy wife? I guess we can say a trophy wife... It didn’t work out too well."
Guest Segment: Sergeant Aquilino Gunnell
Disdain for the Fallen and Military Tradition
Sergeant Gunnell articulates his frustration with Trump's disregard for military sacrifices and the sanctity of places like Arlington.
Aquilino Gunnell [01:40]: "He belittled everybody who goes against his will... it's a grotesque way to dishonor and put shame on the sacrifices of those who pay the ultimate price."
January 6th and the Capitoline Police
Gunnell shares his harrowing experiences defending the Capitol on January 6th, emphasizing the bravery required to protect elected officials amidst chaos.
Aquilino Gunnell [14:24]: "It was a hand-to-hand medieval battle that we were having."
Critique of Government Actions Post-January 6th
He criticizes the Trump administration’s pardons and settlements that undermine the sacrifices made by law enforcement during the insurrection.
Aquilino Gunnell [19:07]: "That's a serious dishonoring... All that was promised versus what was delivered."
Personal Sacrifices and Determination
Gunnell discusses the personal toll the events took on him, including injuries and the loss of his career, yet he remains steadfast in his commitment to honor and truth.
Aquilino Gunnell [22:37]: "It's exhausting emotionally and physically, but I know that there are not a lot of people standing up and being outspoken out there."
Guest Segment: Michael Cohen – Michael Monday
Memorial Day Reflections
Michael Cohen echoes the sentiments of honoring fallen heroes, contrasting the solemnity of Memorial Day with Trump's derogatory remarks.
Michael Cohen [28:07]: "These moments are sacred. They were real."
Criticism of Trump's Leadership
Cohen vehemently criticizes Trump's lack of accountability and his detrimental impact on American values and democratic norms.
Michael Cohen [30:31]: "He certainly would not put himself in jeopardy for anyone... it's red meat for his MAGA supporters."
Impact on International Relations
He discusses Trump's ineffective stance on international issues, particularly his handling of relations with Vladimir Putin and the implications for global democracy.
Michael Cohen [46:32]: "Just pick up the phone... I promise you one thing, I'm not psychic, but I am 100% certain and willing to put money on it..."
Personal Stories and Emotional Appeal
Cohen shares personal anecdotes from his time working in Congress and the emotional weight of honoring fallen service members.
Michael Cohen [43:14]: "I remember their faces... tears rolling down their faces as they stood saluting their fallen brethren."
Host's Conclusion
Jim Acosta wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of honoring military sacrifices and condemning Trump's actions. He emphasizes the resilience and determination of veterans like Gunnell and Cohen to continue speaking out against dishonor and for the preservation of democratic values.
Jim Acosta [26:50]: "We're not going to let that happen... We're going to keep speaking out because that is the right and good thing to do."
Call to Action
Acosta invites listeners to participate in an upcoming live town hall event, encouraging continued engagement and support for those defending democracy and national honor.
Jim Acosta [26:50]: "If you're in the Washington D.C. area that you will join me on Monday, June 2nd... we're going to have a live town hall."
Notable Quotes
- Jim Acosta [00:49]: "To me, it's not a place to do politics... God did that."
- Aquilino Gunnell [01:40]: "It's a grotesque way to dishonor and put shame on the sacrifices of those who pay the ultimate price."
- Michael Cohen [28:07]: "These moments are sacred. They were real."
- Aquilino Gunnell [14:24]: "It was a hand-to-hand medieval battle that we were having."
- Michael Cohen [30:31]: "It's red meat for his MAGA supporters."
- Jim Acosta [26:50]: "We're going to keep speaking out because that is the right and good thing to do."
Conclusion
This Memorial Day episode of The Jim Acosta Show serves as a fervent call to honor the sacrifices of military and law enforcement personnel while vehemently criticizing Donald Trump's actions that undermine national reverence and democratic integrity. Through heartfelt testimonials and incisive commentary, hosts and guests alike emphasize the enduring importance of truth, honor, and resilience in the face of political disrespect and national challenges.