The MeidasTouch Podcast: Memorial Day Special (5/27/25)

Hosted by Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas of the MeidasTouch Network

Introduction

In this special Memorial Day edition, the Meiselas brothers delve deep into pressing political issues, focusing primarily on the actions and rhetoric of former President Donald Trump and their implications for American democracy. The episode is marked by fervent discussions on media bias, fiscal irresponsibility, the erosion of democratic values, and the international repercussions of domestic policies.

Trump’s Memorial Day Activities and Impact

Ben Meiselas initiates the conversation by reflecting on the Memorial Day parade in his town, highlighting the presence of pro-Trump elements that overshadowed the solemnity of the occasion.

"The town Republican club had their own kind of crew, and they made it so Trumpy... playing the YMCA song, it just left a certain feeling with me." [00:04:17]

Ben expresses concern over the normalization of such behavior, emphasizing the importance of advocating for diversity and inclusion in community events.

Media Reporting and Bias

A significant portion of the episode criticizes corporate media's portrayal of Trump’s speeches, arguing that they downplay or misrepresent his actual statements.

Ben contrasts Bloomberg's summary of Trump's West Point speech with the reality:

"Bloomberg reporter Jennifer Dooley wrote about... 'Do what you love, Think big, work hard...'" [00:08:10]

Jordy vehemently disagrees, asserting that Trump's actual remarks were far more deranged and detrimental to the country's leadership standards.

"Corporate media out there to lie and make things up about what Donald Trump is saying... it's absolute lunacy." [00:11:49]

Brett further criticizes the New York Times' neutral headline versus the Independent's accurate depiction, underscoring the media's role in softening Trump's aggressive rhetoric.

International Implications of Trump’s Policies

The brothers discuss how Trump's actions and statements have strained international relations and affected global perceptions of the U.S.

Ben highlights the repercussions of Trump's actions on global alliances:

"Canada is aligning with the Commonwealth of the UK of Australia and saying that it is now looking towards them and Commonwealth nations and looking away from the United States." [00:22:23]

Jordi emphasizes the brain drain risk, noting that negative policies deter international students and talented individuals from contributing to the U.S. economy and innovation.

"We're going to be driving the best and brightest minds away right now all for Donald Trump's ego." [00:25:32]

Budget Bill and Deficit Concerns

The discussion shifts to the disastrous budget bill proposed by Trump and his allies, which threatens to exacerbate the nation's deficit.

Brett criticizes the bill for its potential to spiral the deficit into trillions:

"It's like putting $4 trillion to the deficit... it's just a total, complete disaster." [00:42:55]

Ben echoes these sentiments, predicting an unsustainable increase in national debt:

"I predicted 20, 30 trillion debt... it's the biggest debt deficit bomb that we have ever seen." [00:42:55]

The brothers argue that the bill not only harms the economy but also targets essential services like Medicaid and SNAP, endangering millions who rely on them.

Impact on Latino Communities: Cuban and Venezuelan Status

A critical segment addresses the revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Cuban and Venezuelan immigrants under Trump, highlighting the severe consequences for these communities.

Jordy passionately condemns the administration's stance:

"We don't want y'all... It's an anti-American thing." [00:26:47]

Ben discusses the broader impacts, including the strain on family units and potential brain drain as international students reconsider studying in the U.S.

"Cubans, Venezuelans should have a right to be protected... we're letting you know when Xi Jinping is not meeting or talking with Donald Trump." [00:37:20]

Authoritarianism and Democracy

The brothers draw parallels between Trump's authoritarian tendencies and global shifts toward right-wing fascism, warning of the erosion of democratic values.

Brett compares Trump to communist leaders, emphasizing his manipulative tactics:

"Donald Trump is most similar to a communist leader in one of these countries than we have seen in American history." [00:48:34]

Jordy underscores the importance of resisting authoritarianism and defending democratic institutions, citing examples from various countries where similar threats are emerging.

Key Highlights and Notable Quotes

• Ben on Trump’s Misrepresentation of Speech:

  "He didn't say any of that ever... exact opposite of what we should be teaching... future leaders in general." [00:08:10]

• Jordy on Media Gaslighting:

  "I'm just simply asking, please, just report on what he's actually saying because it's bizarro land and people need to actually see this stuff." [00:12:01]

• Brett on Fiscal Irresponsibility:

  "Adding $4 trillion to the deficit. I'm adding like $20 trillion in debt... it's just so insane." [00:42:55]

• Jordy on TPS Revocation Impact:

  "That's an anti-American thing... it's so infuriating to me at my core." [00:26:47]

• Ben on Authoritarian Shifts:

  "You're allowing this individual to move the Overton window so far to the right... it's how we normalize that behavior." [00:09:10]

Conclusion

The Meidaselas brothers conclude the episode by reiterating the importance of vigilance in protecting democracy, criticizing authoritarian influences, and advocating for responsible fiscal policies. They honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by emphasizing sacrifice and the fight for democratic values.

Ben closes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of fallen soldiers and a commitment to upholding the ideals they fought for:

"It's nothing in comparison to what people who have fought and died for our country have done... honoring the memory of those who fought for our country and fought for our democracy against Nazis, against fascists, against authoritarians." [00:65:23]

Summary

In this Memorial Day special, The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a robust critique of Donald Trump's actions and their detrimental effects on American democracy and international relations. The brothers emphasize the role of unbiased media, the dangers of authoritarianism, and the urgent need for fiscal responsibility. Through passionate discourse and compelling evidence, they call for collective action to resist and oppose forces that threaten the nation's foundational values.