The MeidasTouch Podcast – Episode Released on June 10, 2025
Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Podcast Description:
Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas bring their unique backgrounds to deliver a blend of brotherly banter, comedy, and in-depth news coverage focused on supporting democracy. Their approach has garnered a massive following, making them influential voices in political discourse.
1. Introduction and Episode Overview
The episode kicks off immediately diving into pressing political issues without the typical advertisements, intros, or outros. The brothers set the stage for a robust discussion on the escalating tensions between former President Donald Trump and the state of California.
2. Donald Trump's Escalation Against California
Ben Meiselas leads the conversation, passionately detailing Trump's aggressive tactics against California. He outlines how Trump has moved from ICE raids targeting non-criminal immigrants to threatening the use of the National Guard and possibly the Marines against American citizens.
- Ben (00:28):
“Donald Trump is terrorizing America... he's going to war with America.”
Key Points:
- ICE Raids: Targeting hardworking migrants instead of criminals, disrupting communities, and inciting fear.
- Provocative Actions: Trump's intentional escalation to provoke violence and chaos, culminating in the unlawful federalization of the National Guard.
- Legal Response: California has filed a lawsuit against Trump's actions, marking an unprecedented state-versus-federal conflict.
- Personal Anecdotes: Ben shares personal connections, highlighting the human impact of these raids on families and communities.
3. MAGA Republicans and the Disastrous Budget Bill
Brett Meiselas delves into the GOP's budget bill, emphasizing its catastrophic impact on healthcare and wealth distribution.
- Brett (27:38):
“The MAGA Republicans are pushing through a disastrous budget bill that's going to take away health care from 15 million Americans.”
Key Points:
- Health Care Cuts: The bill aims to strip health care from 15 million low-income Americans.
- Wealth Transfer: Trillions in tax cuts favoring the wealthiest individuals at the expense of essential services for the working class.
- Economic Inequity: Brett criticizes the bill as the largest wealth transfer in American history, exacerbating economic disparities.
4. ICE Raids and Community Impact
Ben provides a detailed account of the ICE raids in Los Angeles, underscoring the targeted demographics and the resultant community trauma.
- Ben (06:43):
“These are people who are paying their taxes and showing up at court... tearing families apart.”
Key Points:
- Targeted Areas: Focused on neighborhoods with large immigrant populations, including Home Depot parking lots and factories.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Families, including pregnant women and middle school students, are being detained without criminal records.
- Police Response: LAPD praised for maintaining order, contrasting sharply with Trump's portrayal of chaos.
5. Responses from MAGA Allies and Political Figures
The episode includes clips and discussions about various political figures, highlighting the internal conflicts within the Republican Party and their support for Trump's authoritarian maneuvers.
- Ben (39:51):
“IF you put your whole community through this, all you've got is that you're heartbroken. You've destroyed lives.”
Key Points:
- Congresswoman Salazar's Betrayal: Initially a staunch Trump supporter, she now opposes the mass deportations affecting her Cuban and Venezuelan constituents.
- Kamala Harris's Warnings: Harris has publicly criticized Trump, labeling his actions as dangerously authoritarian.
6. Analysis of Media and Propaganda
The brothers critique both mainstream and right-wing media for spreading misinformation and enabling Trump's agenda.
- Brett (46:16):
“The Hill publishes both sides because they give credence to both sides no matter what is true and what is false.”
Key Points:
- Media Complicity: Both sides media platforms amplify Trump's disinformation, weakening public understanding.
- Propaganda Tactics: Trump and his allies use selective clips and exaggerated narratives to create a false image of nationwide chaos.
7. Governor Gavin Newsom's Stand Against Trump
Ben praises Governor Newsom for his steadfast resistance against Trump's attempts to undermine California's authority.
- Ben (60:26):
“Governor Newsom has been very proactive... swatting down the lies that prop up this MAGA cesspool online.”
Key Points:
- Leadership: Newsom effectively counters Trump's misinformation, maintaining stability in California.
- Communication Strategy: Utilizes digital media adeptly to disseminate factual information swiftly.
8. Upcoming Challenges and Call to Action
As the episode nears its end, the Meiselas brothers discuss the impending challenges, including Trump's planned military parade and the ongoing budget bill negotiations.
- Jordy (72:19):
“This is a great episode, powerful episode. We covered a lot of information.”
Key Points:
- Military Parade: Trump's planned parade symbolizes his authoritarian ambitions, drawing parallels to historical dictatorships.
- Budget Bill Chaos: Ongoing struggles within the GOP to pass the bill showcase internal party conflicts and leadership failures.
- Community Vigilance: Emphasis on the importance of staying informed, peaceful protest, and fighting back against disinformation.
9. Conclusion and Final Remarks
In their closing remarks, the brothers reinforce the necessity of community support, remaining vigilant against authoritarian threats, and promoting factual information.
- Ben (75:33):
“It's not going to be easy. But we at the Midas Touch Network will be there every single step of the way.”
Key Takeaways:
- Solidarity: Encouragement for listeners to stay united and proactive in combating misinformation and authoritarianism.
- Subscription Push: A call to action for listeners to subscribe and support the podcast to continue their mission of truth and democracy support.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Ben (00:28):
“Donald Trump is terrorizing America... he's going to war with America.” -
Brett (27:38):
“The MAGA Republicans are pushing through a disastrous budget bill that's going to take away health care from 15 million Americans.” -
Ben (06:43):
“These are people who are paying their taxes and showing up at court... tearing families apart.” -
Ben (39:51):
“If you put your whole community through this, all you've got is that you're heartbroken. You've destroyed lives.” -
Brett (46:16):
“The Hill publishes both sides because they give credence to both sides no matter what is true and what is false.” -
Ben (60:26):
“Governor Newsom has been very proactive... swatting down the lies that prop up this MAGA cesspool online.” -
Jordy (72:19):
“This is a great episode, powerful episode. We covered a lot of information.” -
Ben (75:33):
“It's not going to be easy. But we at the Midas Touch Network will be there every single step of the way.”
Final Thoughts
This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast presents a fervent critique of Donald Trump's ongoing attempts to destabilize California and his broader authoritarian ambitions. Through detailed analysis, personal anecdotes, and a call for community action, the Meiselas brothers aim to inform and mobilize their listeners against the erosion of democratic principles.
Listeners who missed the episode can benefit from its comprehensive overview of the current political climate, the strategies employed by Trump and his allies, and the resilient stance of California's leadership in defending democracy.
For those seeking an unfiltered and passionate discussion on American politics, The MeidasTouch Podcast continues to be a vital resource in the quest for truth and democratic integrity.