The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Trump has Monday Meltdown as He Loses Support
Release Date: February 17, 2025
Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Podcast: The MeidasTouch Podcast
Introduction
In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve into the tumultuous state of former President Donald Trump's support base. Combining sharp political analysis with their signature brotherly banter, the Meiselas brothers dissect Trump's recent actions and declining popularity amidst ongoing national and international challenges.
Trump’s President’s Day Post and Public Image
The episode opens with a critical examination of Donald Trump's recent social media activity on President’s Day. The brothers highlight Trump's controversial post featuring his mug shot alongside his official White House portrait, accompanied by the message:
"They’re not after me, they’re after you. I’m just standing in the way. Happy President’s Day."
— Donald Trump [00:30]
Ben Meiselas criticizes the image as an attempt by Trump to portray himself as a defiant figure despite legal challenges:
"Donald Trump wants to brag that he is a gangster, but he looks so utterly weak and utterly pathetic."
— Ben [02:15]
The brothers also point out the incongruity of Trump’s actions during a national disaster, noting his choice to attend a car race in Florida instead of addressing the crisis:
"After a major storm disaster with fatalities, Trump chose to go to a car race, sending his motorcade around in circles."
— Brett [03:45]
Declining Poll Numbers and Public Fatigue
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Trump's dwindling approval ratings and waning support among younger voters. Referencing a recent Economist YouGov poll, they note:
"Donald Trump has a 46% approval rating, while 48% disapprove of the job he is doing. Among adults under 30, favorable opinions have plummeted from 50% to 39%."
— Jordy [04:10]
Brett emphasizes the mismatch between Trump’s actions and the expected high approval during a presidential honeymoon phase:
"Typically, a new administration enjoys high approval ratings. Trump’s approval should be soaring, but instead, it's declining because he's not addressing critical issues."
— Brett [04:50]
Economic and Foreign Policy Failures
The Meiselas brothers critique Trump's economic policies and foreign relations, highlighting rising prices, housing unaffordability, and instability in international affairs. They point out Trump’s failure to deliver on promises such as lowering prices and ending conflicts:
"Prices are up, housing is less affordable, and gas prices are increasing. Trump hasn't made progress on his economic promises."
— Ben [05:05]
Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his handling of the Ukraine conflict, is scrutinized:
"Trump failed to bring Zelensky and Putin to the negotiating table as promised, resulting in increased tensions and instability."
— Jordy [05:20]
The hosts also discuss Trump's strategy to exclude Europe and Ukraine from negotiations with Russia, drawing parallels to his previous dealings with the Taliban in Afghanistan:
"Trump’s approach is reminiscent of his negotiations with the Taliban—cutting out key stakeholders leads to unfavorable outcomes."
— Ben [06:00]
Internal Administration Struggles
The podcast addresses internal issues within Trump’s administration, including the firing of FAA probationary employees crucial for air traffic control:
"Trump’s decision to fire FAA probationary employees comes shortly after a deadly midair collision, exacerbating concerns over air safety."
— Brett [07:30]
Jordy criticizes the administration’s handling of veteran services, contrasting it with the previous Biden administration's achievements:
"Unlike Biden, who created 16.4 million jobs and improved veteran services, Trump is cutting veteran support and critical infrastructure projects."
— Jordy [08:45]
Commercial Activities and Branding
The brothers highlight Trump’s foray into merchandise sales, including apparel and whiskey branded with his image and slogans like "Dark Maga." They express skepticism about the sincerity and impact of these commercial endeavors:
"Trump is leveraging his image to sell products like based T-shirts and whiskey glasses, but it feels more like propaganda than genuine support."
— Ben [10:15]
International Repercussions and Europe's Response
The episode details the international fallout from Trump’s exclusionary negotiation tactics. Europe’s response includes emergency meetings to formulate a common defense plan in light of Trump's actions:
"Europe is holding emergency meetings in Paris to address being sidelined from negotiations, demonstrating their concern over Trump’s isolationist policies."
— Brett [11:30]
Jordy draws a parallel between Trump’s current strategies and his previous foreign policy failures, reinforcing the negative impact on global stability:
"Trump’s unilateral actions mirror his past mistakes, leading to chaos and weakening international alliances."
— Jordy [12:00]
Conclusion
In wrapping up, the Meiselas brothers express frustration over Trump’s continued focus on self-promotion amidst his administration’s failures. They urge listeners to remain vigilant and support democratic values against what they perceive as Trump’s destabilizing influence.
"Despite the chaos and decline in his support, Trump keeps pushing his agenda through propaganda and merchandise. It’s up to us to hold the line for democracy."
— Ben [13:00]
The episode concludes with the brothers encouraging listeners to subscribe and support their mission to provide unbiased political commentary.
Key Takeaways
- Declining Support: Trump's approval ratings are decreasing, particularly among younger voters, amidst perceived inaction during national crises.
- Policy Failures: Economic promises unmet, rising prices, and ineffective foreign policy strategies undermine Trump's credibility.
- Administration Issues: Internal struggles, such as the firing of FAA employees and cuts to veteran services, highlight deeper systemic problems.
- Commercial Exploitation: Trump’s merchandising efforts are viewed as superficial attempts to maintain relevance and support.
- International Impact: Exclusionary negotiation tactics are causing concern among European allies and destabilizing global relations.
Notable Quotes
- Donald Trump [00:30]: "They’re not after me, they’re after you. I’m just standing in the way. Happy President’s Day."
- Donald Trump [05:26]: "So when I win, I will immediately bring prices down. Starting on day one, we will end Kamala's war on American energy."
- Donald Trump [05:46]: "End the war in Ukraine in 24 hours. Yes, I do."
Final Thoughts
The MeidasTouch Podcast episode offers a comprehensive critique of Donald Trump's recent activities and declining influence. Through incisive analysis and engaging discussion, the Meiselas brothers provide listeners with a clear perspective on the current political landscape and the challenges facing democracy.
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