The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Processing...
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Podcast: The MeidasTouch Podcast
1. Introduction and Context
The episode begins with Ben Meiselas addressing the current political climate, particularly focusing on former President Donald Trump's ongoing influence and actions. The brothers emphasize the weakening stance of Trump despite the concluded election, highlighting his continued efforts to disrupt democratic principles.
2. Media Coverage and Political Integrity
Ben criticizes mainstream media outlets like "Morning Joe," accusing them of abandoning their values by aligning too closely with Trump. He states:
Ben Meiselas [00:24]: "It's sad to see shows that I liked, like Morning Joe with Joe and Mika announcing early in the morning that they went to Mar a Lago to reset and improve their relationships with Donald Trump... We will hold the line. We will support and defend our Constitution and our democracy."
Brett and Jordy echo these sentiments, expressing disappointment over media figures abandoning their integrity:
Brett Meiselas [03:59]: "It's just baffling to me how you could just throw away your values... it's just so ominous and a very grim sign."
Jordy Meiselas [05:51]: "People will inevitably let you down... but values, ideals, and principles... could be your North Star."
3. Immigration and Mass Deportations
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Trump's aggressive immigration policies. Ben highlights Trump's intention to declare a national emergency to enforce mass deportations, asserting that such actions would erode trust between Americans and the military:
Ben Meiselas [07:52]: "He's going to use the military against the people in this country... that's what Donald Trump wants to do."
Brett adds his concerns about the feasibility and morality of deporting millions, including law-abiding citizens:
Brett Meiselas [15:56]: "He's doing mass deportations. Pack your bags... there are 11 to 13 million undocumented workers in this country."
4. Appointment of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General
The brothers delve into the controversy surrounding Trump's nomination of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, citing multiple sexual assault allegations against him:
Brett Meiselas [20:28]: "Matt Gates is an alleged sex criminal... how could he possibly pick a person like Matt Gaetz?"
They critique the administration's choices, labeling the appointments as incompetently motivated and dangerously corrupt:
Brett Meiselas [50:42]: "We got Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein's best friend as president. We got Matt Gaetz running for Attorney General right now."
5. Economic Policies and Recession Concerns
Ben discusses the economic repercussions of Trump's policies, highlighting a looming recession exacerbated by his administration's decisions:
Ben Meiselas [29:13]: "All of Donald Trump's promises, his lies about bringing back factories... There was quite literally a manufacturing recession."
Brett counters optimism among Trump supporters regarding economic revival, pointing out Trump's track record of economic mismanagement:
Brett Meiselas [22:51]: "He's going to be great for the economy. It's like, didn't we try these arguments last time? You ran the economy into the ground."
6. Climate Change and Energy Policies
The episode shifts focus to climate change, commending President Biden's efforts to balance environmental initiatives with economic growth:
Brett Meiselas [67:43]: "Climate change is real and making sure we take efforts to protect our climate."
Jordy contrasts this with Trump's hostile stance towards climate science, criticizing his appointment of Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy:
Jordy Meiselas [68:58]: "Donald Trump put somebody in his cabinet, someone named Chris Wright, as Secretary of Energy, who is hostile towards climate change science."
7. Corporate Media and Oligarchy Concerns
A recurring theme is the critique of corporate media's alignment with billionaire interests, particularly those of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The brothers argue that this relationship undermines unbiased reporting and democratic values:
Ben Meiselas [55:48]: "Where is it? I thought this seemed to got a."
Brett Meiselas [62:54]: "Trump is putting people in charge of these various departments... it's the epitome of corruption."
Jordy emphasizes the importance of independent media like The MeidasTouch Network in countering corporate media's influence:
Jordy Meiselas [62:19]: "Independent media outlets like the Midas Touch Network are so crucial to this moment of time."
8. Conclusion and Call to Action
In closing, the brothers urge listeners to remain steadfast in supporting democracy and resisting authoritarian trends. Ben reassures the audience of their commitment to fighting for democratic principles:
Ben Meiselas [60:26]: "I'm going to fight for you. I'm going to fight for democracy... But that's what I'm going to do."
Brett reinforces the power of individual voices in shaping policy and protecting societal gains:
Brett Meiselas [71:16]: "Your voice matters more than ever... use your voice and use your platform to get out the message."
Jordy concludes by highlighting the importance of collective action and maintaining momentum in the fight against authoritarianism:
Jordy Meiselas [73:06]: "Midas Mighty Love this report."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Ben Meiselas [00:24]: "Do not obey in advance. Do not surrender. Hold the line. Support democracy..."
- Brett Meiselas [03:59]: "It's just baffling to me how you could just throw away your values..."
- Ben Meiselas [07:52]: "He's going to use the military against the people in this country..."
- Brett Meiselas [15:56]: "He's doing mass deportations. Pack your bags..."
- Ben Meiselas [20:28]: "Matt Gates is an alleged sex criminal..."
- Brett Meiselas [22:51]: "He's going to be great for the economy..."
- Jordy Meiselas [62:19]: "Independent media outlets like the Midas Touch Network are so crucial to this moment of time."
- Ben Meiselas [60:26]: "I'm going to fight for you. I'm going to fight for democracy..."
- Brett Meiselas [71:16]: "Your voice matters more than ever..."
Final Thoughts
The MeidasTouch Podcast episode "Processing..." presents a critical analysis of the current political landscape, focusing on Trump's continued influence, media complicity, and threats to democratic institutions. The Meiselas brothers advocate for unwavering support of democratic values, transparent media, and active civic engagement to counteract authoritarian tendencies.
For more in-depth discussions and live interactions, listeners are encouraged to join the Patreon Zoom meetings at patreon.com/MidasTouch.