The MeidasTouch Podcast: Episode Summary Title: Congressman Jared Moskowitz on Trump’s Latest Scams
Release Date: May 4, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosted by Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas, the brothers engage in their trademark blend of humor and incisive political analysis. The episode features a candid conversation with Democratic Congressmember Jared Moskowitz, who delves deep into the latest controversies surrounding former President Donald Trump and his family's business dealings. Throughout the discussion, the brothers and Moskowitz offer critical insights into the current political landscape, the effectiveness of government initiatives like DOGE, and pressing issues related to disaster management.

Allegations Against the Trump Family

The episode kicks off with Ben Meiselas addressing the lack of mainstream media coverage on alleged criminal activities within the Trump family. [02:29] Ben states, “I haven't seen one headline in a major corporate news thing saying Trump crime family,” highlighting a perceived media silence. He refers to a video produced by the MeidasTouch Network five years prior, titled The Trump Crime Family, which accuses the family of engaging in various illicit activities.

A guest speaker joins to bolster these claims, stating at [03:19], “The family is a criminal enterprise,” and further elaborates on connections to Russian mobsters and corrupt oligarchs using Trump properties for money laundering and other criminal operations. [04:00] The discussion touches upon Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner’s substantial income while serving as unpaid White House advisers, with [03:55] Moskowitz asserting, “Is a guy didn’t have a job but now he's taking in millions and plenty of it.”

[04:10] Ben emphasizes the ongoing issues, mentioning “Eric Trump foundation charity golf events meant to raise money for children with cancer. Hundreds of thousands of dollars went to the Trump family business.” This segment underscores the brothers' framing of the Trump family as a deeply entrenched criminal network.

Current Political Climate and Approval Ratings

Transitioning to the broader political environment, Moskowitz discusses the president’s approval ratings and the public's perception. At [07:56], Ben observes, “Americans, other than, you know, look, 35% of the MAGA crew, they're not going to move. But independents and Americans are saying that that's not happening.” This sentiment is echoed by Moskowitz, who explains at [07:36], “Trump has immunity that the Supreme Court gave him. So, yes, this is a giant grift.”

Moskowitz critiques Trump’s messaging, particularly his disjointed statements about the economy. He cites an instance where Trump claimed gas prices were the lowest ever at [07:53], only for Americans to see contradictory data at the pump. Moskowitz argues that such statements reveal Trump’s detachment from reality and the effectiveness of factual rebuttals.

Discussion on DOGE Caucus and Policy Failures

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the DOGE Caucus, a legislative initiative intended to address government waste and improve efficiency. At [11:43], Moskowitz bluntly declares, “DOGE is a complete and utter failure.” He outlines the caucus's original goals to reduce government spending and protect essential programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

Moskowitz details the lack of engagement from the executive branch, stating, “Elon never included the DOGE Caucus. We never got any of our ideas. It was completely run out of the executive branch.” He also highlights the financial mismanagement, revealing that supposed savings were overshadowed by increased costs: “They claim they saved 160 billion, but it actually cost us 135 billion to save the 160.”

Further critique includes the inefficacy of government departments post-DOGE, with Moskowitz noting at [11:43], “There's not a single department that's more efficient,” and emphasizing the ongoing struggles within agencies like the State Department and FAA to maintain operations without adequate staffing and resources.

FEMA and Disaster Management Concerns

The conversation shifts to disaster preparedness and the role of FEMA under the current administration. At [16:58], Moskowitz expresses deep concern over proposed changes to FEMA: “If they actually do what Kristi Noem wants to do with FEMA, which is get rid of it... It’ll make it worse.” He underscores the critical importance of FEMA in disaster response, sharing personal experiences from Hurricane Michael to illustrate the agency’s vital role.

Moskowitz warns that dismantling FEMA would have catastrophic consequences for states prone to natural disasters, saying, “If they actually do what Kristi Noem wants to do with FEMA... it'll make it worse.” He advocates for necessary reforms to enhance efficiency without abolishing the agency, ensuring that disaster response remains robust and effective.

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Ben Meiselas underscores the importance of addressing underreported issues. He states at [19:21], “That's why I asked that question at the end. I think sometimes the most important things are the questions that are least asked.” The conversation with Congressman Moskowitz highlights ongoing political struggles, the failure of certain government initiatives, and the pressing need for effective disaster management.

Moskowitz's insights provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the complexities within the current political framework and the challenges faced in combating corruption and ensuring governmental efficiency. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to stay informed and engaged with the issues that matter most.

Notable Quotes

• Ben Meiselas [02:29]: “I haven't seen one headline in a major corporate news thing saying Trump crime family.”
• Guest Speaker [03:19]: “The family is a criminal enterprise.”
• Congressmember Jared Moskowitz [04:10]: “It's a crime family.”
• Ben Meiselas [07:36]: “What I think is the most important point there also, though, in addition to the fact that that's corrupt and unlawful and all of that, how the American is feeling right now...”
• Moskowitz [11:43]: “DOGE is a complete and utter failure.”
• Moskowitz [16:58]: “If they actually do what Kristi Noem wants to do with FEMA... it'll make it worse.”

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a thorough examination of alleged corruption within the Trump family, critiques of governmental initiatives like DOGE, and serious concerns about FEMA’s future. Through the incisive dialogue between the Meiselas brothers and Congressman Jared Moskowitz, listeners gain valuable perspectives on the intersection of politics, governance, and accountability. The episode serves as a crucial resource for those seeking to understand the current political dynamics and the ongoing efforts to safeguard democracy and public welfare.