The MeidasTouch Podcast: Episode Summary Episode Title: MeidasTouch RESPONDS to MAJOR Breaking News Release Date: January 14, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas address the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and the ensuing political turmoil fueled by MAGA Republicans' disinformation campaigns. The brothers blend humor, brotherly banter, and a steadfast commitment to supporting democracy to dissect the current crisis and its broader implications for American politics and society.

Impact of the LA Wildfires

Jordy's Personal Experience At [05:40], Jordy shares his harrowing experience during the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. He recounts being evacuated due to mandatory orders, the proximity of the fires to his home, and the rapid response of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Despite being one of the "luckiest" residents, Jordy expresses deep concern for those less fortunate and highlights the emotional toll of witnessing widespread devastation.

Jordy [05:40]:
"It's been so incredibly frustrating and demoralizing... watching all the devastation that has been wrought as a result of these fires, these winds."

Community Resilience Jordy draws parallels between the current wildfire crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the community's resilience and the solidarity among Los Angeles residents. He underscores the importance of accurate information and the detrimental effects of rampant disinformation during such crises.

Jordy [07:00]:
"It reminds me of like the COVID era, when you're kind of in survival mode... trying to hear from the experts, and then at the same time getting this deluge of disinformation, this deluge of lies."

MAGA Republicans and the Spread of Disinformation

Criticism of MAGA Tactics Brett and Jordy delve into the actions of MAGA Republicans, particularly focusing on Speaker of the House Mike Johnson's response to the wildfires. They condemn Johnson's suggestion of imposing conditions on federal aid to California, labeling it as "vile" and "despicable."

Brett [09:22]:
"It's so vile. It's so despicable to see... it's just absolutely reprehensible when... making everything about politics."

Weaponization of Disinformation The brothers argue that MAGA Republicans are weaponizing lies and disinformation to manipulate public perception and political outcomes. They highlight how these tactics undermine competent governance and endanger lives by distracting from the real issues at hand.

Brett [17:09]:
"It's that the truth really doesn't matter. They try to get these lies out there so quickly and the lies spread and the lies actually affect people."

Gavin Newsom’s Response to Disinformation

Governor Newsom as a Counterforce Ben and Brett commend California Governor Gavin Newsom for his effective communication strategies in combating MAGA disinformation. They showcase a video clip where Newsom addresses the false claims linking the Delta Smelt to the wildfires, emphasizing the accuracy and transparency of his administration’s response.

Brett [13:56]:
"He ends it so quickly once he didn't get the answer he wanted. And he's been one of the biggest spreaders of all these."

Strategic Communication The discussion highlights how Newsom leverages social media to counteract misinformation, providing a "masterclass" in modern political communication. Brett praises Newsom’s ability to disseminate truthful information effectively, despite algorithmic challenges that often favor sensationalist and false narratives.

Brett [17:45]:
"Gavin Newsom lined up the resources... And this is exactly what people who are running these accounts for the Democrats, for anybody who stands for truth, need to be doing."

Upcoming Community Support Event

Pasadena Aid Initiative At [09:22], Brett announces an event co-sponsored by the podcast to support those affected by the Eaton fires in Pasadena. Scheduled for January 15th at 12:30 PM, the event will provide free meals, including burgers and pizza, to first responders, police officers, firefighters, and impacted individuals.

Brett [09:22]:
"We're going to be working with this firm there, Mendez and Sanchez. ... It's a free meal on us and on Mendez and Sanchez."

Community Engagement Jordy and Brett emphasize the importance of community solidarity during crises, encouraging listeners to participate if safe and to prioritize those directly affected over seeking free food.

Jordy [70:14]:
"If you've been impacted, if you're a first responder, police, firefighters, you know, we're trying to help out as best we can."

Political Analysis and Media Critique

Dissecting MAGA's Narrative The podcast delves into the inconsistencies and manipulative tactics employed by MAGA Republicans, particularly focusing on broken promises and shifting narratives. Brett criticizes how Trump and his allies use disinformation to distract from policy failures and to create division.

Brett [32:54]:
"It's horrifying that MAGA and the MAGA party has made the political calculation... to spread misinformation and disinformation, actually put Americans lives more at Danger."

Comparing Political Figures The hosts compare President Biden’s governance with Trump’s approach, highlighting Biden’s record on job creation, economic stability, and foreign policy achievements. They argue that Biden's administration focuses on factual progress, contrasting sharply with the deceptive strategies of MAGA Republicans.

Brett [40:27]:
"President Biden delivered an important foreign policy speech today... it's been an honor to have that historical record of that final interview with President Biden."

Analyzing Key Political Statements The episode includes analysis of statements from Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, critiquing his inconsistent and unfulfilling commitments to peace negotiations.

Brett [41:21]:
"We'll set the conditions for the president and then he'll eventually get to a position where he'll be talking to President Putin... I predict that guy's not going to last that long in the Trump administration."

Closing Remarks and Future Coverage

Acknowledging the Support Network The brothers express gratitude to their listeners, the "Midas Mighty," and acknowledge the support from subscribers and sponsors that enable them to continue combating disinformation and supporting democratic values.

Brett [52:04]:
"Shout out to our sponsors... Thank you for the Midas Mighty."

Upcoming Topics and Events Looking ahead, the podcast previews coverage of upcoming cabinet confirmation hearings and other significant political events, encouraging listeners to stay engaged through their various platforms.

Brett [60:31]:
"We have the confirmation hearings. Tune in for the confirmation hearings. Our coverage here on the Midas Touch Network."

Final Encouragement to Combat Lies The episode concludes with a strong call to action for listeners to support pro-democracy efforts, leave positive reviews, and continue spreading truthful information to counteract the pervasive disinformation.

Brett [71:02]:
"We need to combat the lies, folks. We need to combat the disinformation. We need to lead with honesty, with integrity, with positivity."

Notable Quotes

• Jordy [07:00]:
  "It reminds me of like the COVID era, when you're kind of in survival mode... trying to hear from the experts, and then at the same time getting this deluge of disinformation, this deluge of lies."

• Brett [09:22]:
  "It's so vile. It's so despicable to see... making everything about politics."

• Brett [17:45]:
  "Gavin Newsom lined up the resources... need to be doing."

• Brett [32:54]:
  "It's horrifying that MAGA and the MAGA party has made the political calculation... to spread misinformation and disinformation, actually put Americans lives more at Danger."

• Brett [60:31]:
  "We have the confirmation hearings. Tune in for the confirmation hearings. Our coverage here on the Midas Touch Network."

Conclusion

In this impactful episode, The MeidasTouch Podcast provides a critical examination of the intersection between natural disasters and political manipulation. Through vivid personal accounts, sharp political analysis, and a steadfast dedication to truth, the Meiselas brothers underscore the importance of unity and factual discourse in safeguarding democracy and supporting affected communities.

For more detailed insights and ongoing coverage, listeners are encouraged to follow The MeidasTouch Podcast on their preferred platforms and join the "Midas Mighty" community.