Podcast Summary: The Megyn Kelly Show – Episode 1109
Title: Biden Cover-Up Continues, Gavin Newsom's Terrible Answer, and Trump's New Epstein Hoax Framing, with Rich Lowry
Host: Megyn Kelly
Guest: Rich Lowry (National Review)
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Platform: SiriusXM
1. Biden Administration Scandal: Doctor and Chief Enforcer Plead the Fifth
Overview:
Megyn Kelly and Rich Lowry delve into the ongoing scandal surrounding President Joe Biden's administration, focusing on the recent congressional testimonies where key figures have invoked the Fifth Amendment.
Key Points:
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Dr. Kevin O'Connor's Deposition:
Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden's personal physician, pleaded the Fifth when questioned by Representative James Comer about the President's cognitive health."[02:20] Megyn Kelly: ... Those two questions are incredibly telling, right."
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Anthony Bernal's Involvement:
Anthony Bernal, described as Jill Biden's "chief enforcer," also invoked the Fifth during his deposition, raising suspicions about his role in any potential cover-up of Biden's alleged mental decline."[10:36] Megyn Kelly: ... the invocation of the fifth raises a possibility that he was actually told to affirmatively cover it up."
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Implications:
Rich Lowry expresses skepticism about the likelihood of the subpoenas leading to significant revelations, suggesting that immunity might be offered to extract truthful testimonies without criminal repercussions."[08:03] Rich Lowry: I don't think they have enough based on that New York Times article."
Notable Quotes:
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Rich Lowry (12:05):
"Incredible. Of whether any unelected official or family members executed the duties of president and whether Joe Biden ever told him to lie about his health." -
Megyn Kelly (13:14):
"He is somebody that enforced what Jill Biden wanted... the idea that he could have served to, you know, January 2029 is one of the most preposterous things the American public has ever been asked to believe."
2. Implications for Democrats and the Presidential Race
Overview:
The discussion transitions to the broader political ramifications of the Biden administration's actions, particularly concerning upcoming elections and potential Democratic candidates' standings.
Key Points:
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Impact on Democratic Candidates:
The scandal could cast long shadows over Democratic figures like Andrew Cuomo and Gavin Newsom, weakening their campaigns and public perception. -
Gavin Newsom's Public Gaffes:
Newsom's inadequate responses to sensitive questions about surgeries on minors and his handling of San Francisco's law enforcement have been highlighted as significant missteps."[19:05] Rich Lowry: ... And you're going to have that flailer with the hands and the stuttering and the come on, man..."
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Andrew Cuomo's Decline:
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's reputation has been severely tarnished due to multiple scandals, making his political future uncertain.
Notable Quotes:
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Megyn Kelly (20:49):
"If there are two things I would advise him on which would seem relatively easy. One, say Biden shouldn't have been running again and people should have blown the whistle on it much earlier." -
Rich Lowry (26:28):
"They won't do it and they're clouding their chances with every mealy mouthed answer."
3. Epstein Controversy and Trump's Positioning
Overview:
The conversation shifts to former President Donald Trump's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, examining how he's framing it as a Democratic hoax and its implications for his support base.
Key Points:
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Trump's Dismissive Stance:
Trump labels the Epstein case as a "Democrat new scam," attempting to discredit the ongoing investigations and dismiss the public's interest in the matter."[46:22] Megyn Kelly: ... I would like to see that also. But I think the Attorney general's credibility is very important..."
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Public Reaction:
Trump's approach may alienate some of his supporters who are still seeking answers about Epstein, potentially weakening his political standing. -
Potential for Increased Transparency:
Both hosts agree that more transparency from the Department of Justice, particularly from Attorney General Pam Bondi, is necessary to quell ongoing suspicions.
Notable Quotes:
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Rich Lowry (50:15):
"Trump gets out there. It's... I don't actually know what Trump is doing with his messaging, because last night I watched the Brett Bear." -
Megyn Kelly (55:48):
"But I don't think it's a good idea to make the connection to the Russia hoax which was about him. So this kind of implies that this also is about him."
4. Immigration Policies and ICE Raids in California
Overview:
Kelly and Lowry discuss recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in California, highlighting the challenges and potential solutions to illegal immigration.
Key Points:
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Recent ICE Raids:
Significant numbers of illegal immigrants, including minors, were arrested during raids at marijuana farms. These actions have sparked debates over the effectiveness and methods of current immigration policies."[70:10] Rich Lowry: ... It's totally crazy. And I should correct myself, I guess."
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E-Verify Implementation:
The speakers advocate for mandatory E-Verify systems to prevent employers from hiring illegal immigrants, thereby reducing the need for extensive ICE operations."[73:04] Megyn Kelly: ... The easiest way to do it is to have a mandatory E verify system where you have to verify that your employees are actually legal."
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Public Perception and Support:
Despite successful raids, public opinion appears divided, with some polls indicating a reluctance to support stringent deportation measures.
Notable Quotes:
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Megyn Kelly (74:02):
"The focus has to be bringing Mamdani's ratings down, making him radioactive, and then maybe a vista opens up where something's possible." -
Rich Lowry (75:33):
"Let me answer. Did they ever say anything about the mass protesters that became criminals on college campuses that threatened Jewish students and took over buildings, destroyed property? They were all wearing masks."
5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Overview:
As the episode wraps up, Kelly and Lowry reflect on the discussed topics, emphasizing the need for accountability, transparency, and effective policy implementation within the current political landscape.
Key Points:
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Need for Accountability:
Both hosts stress the importance of holding public officials accountable to maintain public trust and ensure the integrity of governmental institutions. -
Policy Recommendations:
Implementing E-Verify and enforcing existing immigration laws are highlighted as critical steps toward addressing illegal immigration effectively. -
Future Outlook:
The political implications of these scandals and policy debates are likely to influence upcoming elections and the broader direction of American politics.
Notable Quotes:
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Rich Lowry (62:10):
"It doesn't seem winnable by either side." -
Megyn Kelly (60:22):
"We have so much work yet to be done. So I don't think they're going to be deterred."
Closing Remarks:
Megyn Kelly and Rich Lowry conclude the episode from an impromptu setup at a Colorado airport, expressing optimism about the Republican prospects in the upcoming elections despite the challenges discussed.
"[79:18] Megyn Kelly: ... But I'm just seeing the Runway of how the Republicans chances are gonna look."
Note: This summary excludes all advertisement segments and non-content sections from the original transcript to focus solely on the substantive discussions presented in the episode.
