The MeidasTouch Podcast – Episode: "Trump Faces PISSED OFF USA over his LIES"
Release Date: December 10, 2024

Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Network: MeidasTouch Network

Introduction

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, the Meiselas brothers delve into a range of pressing political and social issues, combining insightful analysis with their characteristic humor and brotherly banter. The primary focus revolves around former President Donald Trump's recent actions and their implications both domestically and internationally.

Trump's Misappropriation of Dr. Jill Biden's Image (00:54 - 13:56)

Ben Mycel opens the discussion by addressing a controversial move by Donald Trump: advertising his new line of perfumes and colognes using First Lady Dr. Jill Biden's image without her consent. Ben highlights the legal implications of such actions, stating:

"Donald Trump is using Dr. Jill Biden's image. Here's what it says just so you can all see for yourself. It says, a fragrance your enemies can't resist. Despicable, disgusting, and just so unbecoming of the United States presidency" (02:15).

Key Points:

• Legal Ramifications: Ben explains the concept of misappropriation of name, image, and likeness, a violation that could potentially cost Trump up to $100 million if Dr. Jill Biden decides to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations.
• Comparative Analysis: The brothers draw parallels between Trump and dictators like Bashar Al Assad, emphasizing Trump's inappropriate use of public images and the creation of propaganda-like advertisements.
• Public Reaction: Brett and Jordy express frustration over the normalization of such actions by corporate media, calling for stronger deterrents against Trump's behavior.

Notable Quote:

"It's a stain on the United States of America and it deserves to be covered with seriousness and in the appropriate legal context." – Ben Mycel (12:45)

International Affairs: Syria and Russian Dynamics (13:56 - 35:34)

The conversation shifts to international politics, focusing on the situation in Syria and the weakening stance of Vladimir Putin.

Ben Mycel discusses President Biden's efforts in Syria, highlighting the balance between seeking peace and preventing the resurgence of ISIS. He critiques Putin's strategies, noting:

"Vladimir Putin never seemed weaker. So what's he doing? He knows how to play Donald Trump like a fiddle." (09:30)

Key Points:

• Macron's Diplomacy: Ben praises French President Emmanuel Macron for his strategic maneuvering during Trump's visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, using it as a platform to subtly align with Ukrainian interests.
• Putin's Tactics: The brothers analyze Putin's use of nuclear blackmail and propaganda to manipulate public perception and maintain his influence, particularly through televised displays featuring Russian oligarchs.
• Impact of Media: Brett emphasizes how Fox News propagates these international dynamics to bolster Trump's image, comparing it to authoritarian propaganda tactics.

Notable Quote:

"It's like, really, where they're kind of embarrassing." – Jordy on Melania's corporate endorsements (16:05)

Trump's Interview with Meet the Press (35:34 - 58:45)

Ben Mycel critiques Donald Trump's recent appearance on Meet the Press, describing it as "American propaganda" and highlighting the lack of accountability during the interview.

Key Points:

• Lack of Pushback: The hosts lament the media's failure to challenge Trump's false statements, allowing him to propagate lies without consequence.
• Future Implications: Brett and Jordy discuss the potential damage to democratic institutions when media personalities do not hold leaders accountable, exacerbating public misinformation.

Notable Quote:

"It's an embarrassing interview from just the questions that were asked." – Ben Mycel (10:20)

Domestic Affairs: Economic Disparities and IRS Reforms (58:45 - 65:20)

The focus turns to domestic economic issues, particularly the job report under President Biden and the contrasting approaches to the IRS between the Biden and Trump administrations.

Ben Mycel highlights the creation of 227,000 jobs in November and praises Biden's administration for reducing the national deficit and enhancing IRS efficiency. He contrasts this with Trump's mismanagement:

"Trump created a micro stick. It's like a tiny stick policy. It's act loud and obnoxious, but you have no real power." (22:50)

Key Points:

• Economic Growth vs. Wealth Disparity: The hosts acknowledge the job creation numbers but critique the persistent economic inequalities, pointing out that CEO salaries have surged while minimum wages remain stagnant.
• IRS Improvements: Ben details how Biden's reforms have made the IRS more efficient, increasing the detection of tax evasion among the wealthy and improving taxpayer services.
• Republican Opposition: Brett and Jordy discuss how Republicans exploit culture wars to distract from economic issues, undermining the progress made in economic reforms and IRS enhancements.

Notable Quote:

"They are taking away your Social Security, they are taking away your Medicare, they are taking away your... your kid and your future grandkids' opportunities." – Ben Mycel (55:12)

Culture Wars as a Smokescreen for Class Struggle (65:20 - Conclusion)

Brett and Jordy explore the notion that culture wars are being used to divert attention from deeper economic and class issues. They argue that the focus on social issues like transgender rights and immigration serves to distract the public from the increasing wealth gap and legislative attacks on social safety nets.

Key Points:

• Divisive Tactics: The brothers assert that making divisive social issues a focal point is a deliberate strategy to prevent unified action against economic inequities.
• Media Manipulation: They emphasize the role of major media outlets and billionaires in perpetuating this division to maintain control over information flows and public discourse.
• Call to Action: The hosts urge listeners to recognize and resist these tactics by focusing on substantive economic reforms and supporting democratic institutions.

Notable Quote:

"The culture war is a smokescreen for, I think, a class war. And it's an asymmetrical warfare because the people who are being beaten down by the billionaires kind of don't even... they feel angry." – Ben Mycel (60:43)

Conclusion and Community Engagement (65:35 - End)

The episode concludes with the brothers encouraging listeners to join their Patreon community for exclusive discussions and updates. They reinforce the importance of collective action and staying informed to combat the systemic issues discussed throughout the episode.

Closing Remarks:

"We're gonna win with joy, we're gonna win with facts. We're gonna win with strength when the time comes, but we're gonna win with this community and you're a major part of it." – Ben Mycel (64:42)

Key Takeaways

• Legal Accountability: Trump's misuse of Dr. Jill Biden's image for commercial gain could lead to significant legal repercussions.
• International Strategy: Macron's diplomatic finesse contrasts sharply with Trump's more self-serving actions, highlighting effective leadership.
• Economic Reforms vs. Distracting Divisions: While the Biden administration makes strides in economic reforms and IRS efficiency, Republicans employ culture wars to divert attention from economic disparities.
• Role of Media and Billionaires: Control over information by media moguls and billionaires is central to maintaining socio-economic divides and suppressing unified opposition.
• Call for Unity and Action: The Meiselas brothers emphasize the need for informed, collective action to support democracy and address systemic inequities.

Notable Quotes

1. Ben Mycel (02:15):
   "Donald Trump is using Dr. Jill Biden's image. ... despicable, disgusting, and just so unbecoming of the United States presidency."

2. Jordy (16:05):
   "It doesn't say anything of that on this. And normally if you were going to do that, you would listen to the charity it was going to go to."

3. Ben Mycel (22:50):
   "Trump created a micro stick. It's like a tiny stick policy. It's act loud and obnoxious, but you have no real power."

4. Ben Mycel (55:12):
   "They are taking away your Social Security, they are taking away your Medicare, they are taking away your... your kid and your future grandkids' opportunities."

5. Ben Mycel (60:43):
   "The culture war is a smokescreen for, I think, a class war. ... they feel angry."

6. Ben Mycel (64:42):
   "We're gonna win with joy, we're gonna win with facts. ... you’re a major part of it."

Note: For exclusive content and to engage with the MeidasMighty community, listeners are encouraged to join the Patreon at patreon.com/MidasTouch.