The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary: "Panicked Trump Gets Unglued as Protests Grow"

Release Date: June 11, 2025

In this intense episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the escalating political tensions in the United States, focusing on former President Donald Trump's recent maneuvers and the growing protests against his influence. The brothers combine sharp political analysis with their signature brotherly banter, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the current political climate.

1. Trump's Militarization of Los Angeles

Ben Meiselas opens the discussion by addressing the alarming presence of military forces in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. He paints a vivid picture of Trump's America, highlighting the federalization of the National Guard and the deployment of Marines into major cities.

Ben Meiselas [01:04]: "Those are tanks rolling through Washington, D.C. That's what Donald Trump's America looks like as he federalizes the National Guard and sends the Marines into Los Angeles."

Ben criticizes Trump's tactics, portraying them as authoritarian and questioning the President's judgment in involving active military personnel in domestic affairs.

2. Governor Gavin Newsom's Response

The podcast shifts focus to California Governor Gavin Newsom's reaction to Trump's actions. Ben shares an exclusive clip of Newsom's address, emphasizing the Governor's commitment to maintaining public safety without the heavy hand of federal military intervention.

Gavin Newsom [05:13]: "Thanks to our law enforcement officers and the majority of Angelenos who protested peacefully, the situation was winding down and was concentrated in just a few square blocks downtown... We do not want our streets militarized by our own armed forces."

Governor Newsom praises local law enforcement and peaceful protesters, contrasting sharply with Trump's aggressive stance.

3. Stephen Miller's Aggressive Rhetoric

Ben introduces Stephen Miller, Trump's communications director, critiquing his combative approach towards the media and critics. Highlighting Miller's background and recent statements, Ben underscores the toxic nature of his rhetoric.

Ben Meiselas [06:01]: "Stephen Miller was running for student government in high school... he always had hate in his heart."

He plays a clip of Miller's high school speech, reinforcing his long-standing aggressive demeanor.

4. Trump's FEMA Strategy Shifts

The conversation delves into Trump's recent statements about FEMA, where he advocates for downscaling federal responsibilities and transferring them to state governments. Ben questions the feasibility of this move, especially in the context of disaster management and funding.

Donald Trump [08:16]: "We want to wean off of FEMA and we want to bring it down to the state level a little bit like education."

Ben challenges this strategy by citing the disproportionate funding FEMA requires, using Hurricane Katrina as an example to illustrate the impracticality of state-level management without substantial resources.

5. Immigration and Guantanamo Bay Plans

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Trump's controversial plans to significantly increase the number of undocumented migrants sent to Guantanamo Bay. Ben highlights alarming plans to transfer up to 9,000 individuals, a stark increase from previous numbers.

Ben Meiselas [06:01]: "The Trump regime is planning to dramatically ramp up sending undocumented migrants to Guantanamo Bay starting this week, with at least 9,000 people being vetted for transfer."

He criticizes the inhumane treatment of migrants and the retrogressive use of Guantanamo Bay, a facility originally reserved for the most severe terrorist threats, now being repurposed for undocumented immigrants.

6. US-China Trade Negotiations

Ben touches upon the ongoing trade negotiations between the U.S. and China, emphasizing the fragility and ambiguity of the recent agreements. He references comments from economic experts to illustrate the superficial nature of the current framework.

Ben Meiselas [07:25]: "Justin Wolfer says the US and Chinese negotiators have negotiated a handshake agreement to seek sign off to agree that they previously agreed. Agreement is still their agreed upon agreement."

This section highlights the uncertainty and skepticism surrounding the effectiveness of the Trump administration's trade policies.

7. Media and Independent Resistance

Highlighting the role of independent media, Ben praises outlets like The MeidasTouch Network for their resilience and commitment to truth in an era of increasing media manipulation and state-controlled narratives.

Ben Meiselas [08:36]: "The opposition is here. The resistance grows. Independent media is leading the way."

He underscores the importance of platforms that challenge the mainstream media's portrayal of events and provide unbiased reporting.

8. Epstein Conspiracies and Political Ties

Ben delves into the controversial connections between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, alleging Trump's involvement in illicit activities. He discusses the implications of these associations and the lack of accountability within the Trump regime.

Ben Meiselas [06:01]: "The majority of Americans recognize... that Donald Trump is on the Epstein list and he's involved with Epstein."

This segment adds another layer to the multifaceted critique of Trump's administration, intertwining political corruption with personal misconduct.

9. Economic Implications and Military Spending

The podcast also examines the financial ramifications of Trump's militaristic strategies, questioning the inflated costs associated with deploying troops and the potential economic strain it imposes.

Ben Meiselas [07:25]: "Military parade over the weekend is only going to cost... I think it's going to cost like half a billion dollars."

Ben is critical of the administration's attempts to downplay these expenditures, suggesting a significant misuse of federal funds.

10. Call to Action and Closing Remarks

In the concluding segments, Ben urges listeners to remain vigilant and proactive in opposing authoritarian tendencies within the government. He emphasizes the power of collective resistance and the pivotal role of independent media in safeguarding democracy.

Ben Meiselas [08:36]: "We're not scared of the regime. We're not scared to call Donald Trump a felon... We're speaking the truth. That's all you can do right now."

He encourages the audience to support independent media outlets and stay informed through reliable sources.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Meiselas [01:04]: "Those are tanks rolling through Washington, D.C. That's what Donald Trump's America looks like..."

• Gavin Newsom [05:13]: "We do not want our streets militarized by our own armed forces."

• Donald Trump [07:06]: "If there's any protester wants to come out, they will be met with very big force."

• Ben Meiselas [08:16]: "We want to wean off of FEMA and bring it down to the state level... But where will the states get the funding from?"

Conclusion

In "Panicked Trump Gets Unglued as Protests Grow," The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a scathing critique of Donald Trump's strategies to undermine democratic institutions and escalate authoritarian control. Through detailed analysis and compelling arguments, the Meiselas brothers shed light on the pressing issues facing the nation, from military overreach and flawed disaster management to questionable trade deals and deep-seated political corruption. The episode serves as a rallying cry for listeners to support independent media and actively resist the erosion of democratic values.

For those seeking a blend of insightful political commentary and engaging discussion, this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast is a must-listen.