The MeidasTouch Podcast: President Biden EXCLUSIVE Interview Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: The MeidasTouch Podcast
• Host/Author: MeidasTouch Network (Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas)
• Episode: President Biden EXCLUSIVE Interview with MeidasTouch
• Release Date: December 19, 2024

Introduction

In this exclusive episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, the Meiselas brothers secure a high-profile interview with President Joseph Biden. Conducted in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, the conversation delves deep into Biden's tenure, his accomplishments, foreign policy, media relations, and his vision for America’s future. The interview furnishes listeners with an insider’s perspective on Biden’s reflections as his term nears its end.

Biden's Major Accomplishments

Economic Growth and Infrastructure

President Biden begins by outlining his administration's focus on revitalizing the American economy through a "middle out and bottom up" approach, emphasizing the creation of opportunities for ordinary people rather than relying on "trickle down" economics.

"We have the strongest economy in the world by any measure." ([03:02])

Key achievements include:

• Infrastructure and Climate Initiatives: Investments in infrastructure, transportation, and climate change mitigation.
• Prescription Drug Pricing Reform: Efforts to lower prescription drug costs, aligning U.S. prices with those in other countries.
• Support for Veterans: Enhanced care and opportunities for veterans and their families.
• Domestic Manufacturing Boost: Encouraging domestic production, particularly in critical sectors like semiconductor manufacturing to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.

"We want to get results immediately... the only protected entity was Medicare could not negotiate with drug companies." ([03:02])

Job Creation

Biden highlights the creation of over 16 million jobs through the Infrastructure Act and Inflation Reduction Act, surpassing job creation numbers from previous administrations.

"The Infrastructure Act, Inflation Reduction act created over 16 million jobs more than any president." ([06:27])

Election Performance and Public Perception

Despite the administration’s achievements, some union leaders and rank-and-file workers voted for the opposition. Biden addresses this by emphasizing the long-term nature of policy impacts and the administration’s investments in red states.

"What we've done is going to take a little bit of time." ([06:58])

He expresses confidence that the benefits of his policies will eventually resonate with the American public, fostering greater unity.

Foreign Policy and NATO

Strengthening NATO and Global Leadership

Biden discusses his efforts to reinforce NATO, including persuading Sweden and another country sharing an extensive border with Russia to join the alliance, thereby strengthening its stance against Russian aggression.

"We were able to convince two countries, Sweden and a country with an 800 mile border along the Russian border to join NATO." ([10:30])

Stance Against Russia and China

He underscores the administration’s commitment to countering threats from Russia and China, advocating for continued investment in America's infrastructure and environmental protections to maintain global leadership.

"How can we lead the world without the best infrastructure in the world... we have to demonstrate that we're prepared to continue to do our part." ([10:30])

Response to Potential Policy Changes by Successors

Biden expresses skepticism about the feasibility of "Project 2025," an initiative he believes would cause significant economic harm by cutting government employees and undermining his administration’s achievements.

"It's devastating. I think if Project 2025 came along... I don't think it can take hold." ([23:14])

Transition of Power and Presidential Inauguration

Handling the Transition Gracefully

Despite tensions with his successor, Biden maintains a commitment to a smooth transition, inviting the incoming president to the White House.

"Because it's who we are as a nation. It's how we're supposed to be." ([12:47])

He emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic norms and ensuring that the transition remains functional despite personal differences.

Media Coverage and Public Communication

Critique of Traditional Media

Biden comments on the evolving media landscape, noting a decline in traditional newspaper readership and the challenges posed by the digital age.

"The media's changed drastically... Technology is changing everything." ([14:17])

He praises The MeidasTouch Podcast for its truthful and engaging approach, recognizing the importance of adapting communication strategies to reach a modern audience.

Current Initiatives and Future Plans

Women's Health and Social Justice

Biden outlines ongoing efforts to fund women's health initiatives and address social justice issues, including criminal justice reform and providing fair opportunities for all Americans.

"We're changing in the near term that will provide for greater equity and fairness." ([16:11])

Environmental Leadership

He remains committed to combating climate change, highlighting the rejoining of international environmental groups and advocating for job creation within the green economy.

"I think environment, I think jobs, I don't think restrictions on jobs, it's jobs creating thousands of good paying jobs dealing with environmental concerns." ([16:11])

Legacy and Final Reflections

Defining His Legacy

Biden aspires to be remembered for fulfilling his promises, restoring America's global leadership, and fostering an economy that benefits the middle and working classes.

"I kept my word that when I said I was going to do something, I did." ([29:35])

Optimism for the Future

Despite challenges, Biden remains hopeful about America's future, driven by his belief in the American people's capacity to achieve greater good.

"I have enormous faith, enormous faith in the American people to end up being in the right place." ([30:19])

Conclusion

President Biden’s interview with The MeidasTouch Podcast offers an in-depth look at his administration’s accomplishments, challenges, and vision for the future. From economic reforms and infrastructure investments to strengthening international alliances and addressing media dynamics, Biden articulates a comprehensive approach to governance aimed at benefiting ordinary Americans and maintaining global leadership. His reflections underscore a commitment to unity, fairness, and continued advocacy for environmental and social justice issues as his term concludes.

Notable Quotes:

• Joseph Biden ([02:05]): "That's not America. That's not who the hell we are. We're not going away. I'm not going away."

• Joseph Biden ([06:58]): "I think the failure to connect between what was happening to the economy as a whole and what's going to happen to the middle class Americans as a consequence? What we've done is going to take a little bit of time."

• Joseph Biden ([12:47]): "The fact that he doesn't abide by the rules of the democracy we've established is not my concern. My job is to make a transition workable and available."

• Joseph Biden ([14:17]): "The media's changed drastically. Not bad or good, just changed in a fundamental way."

• Joseph Biden ([29:35]): "I kept my word that when I said I was going to do something, I did, and that my focus has always been about how to give ordinary people a shot."

• Joseph Biden ([30:19]): "I have enormous faith, enormous faith in the American people to end up being in the right place."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key themes and insights from the exclusive interview, providing valuable context and understanding for listeners and non-listeners alike.