The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary: "Trump Loses Control as Approval Rapidly Crashes"

Release Date: February 24, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the precipitous decline of former President Donald Trump's influence and approval ratings. Combining incisive political analysis with their signature brotherly banter, the Meiselas brothers explore recent political developments, Trump's controversial actions, and the broader implications for American democracy.

International Reactions to Trump’s Influence

Russian Media Alignment

The episode opens with a discussion on how Russian state media has been amplifying narratives that portray Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin as allies against NATO, Ukraine, and Europe. The brothers examine a clip where a Russian official praises Trump's statements for their alignment with Russian perspectives.

• Jordy Meiselas highlights at 02:30: "It's not a coincidence that many of the narratives being pushed by Russian media closely mirror Trump's own rhetoric. This synergy is alarming and underscores the extent of his influence."

Germany’s Election and Trump’s Impact

The brothers analyze the recent German elections, where the AfD party, supported by Trump and other high-profile figures, secured second place but did not win. The victory went to the CSU-CDU party, led by Frederick Mares, who delivered a scathing acceptance speech condemning Trump's influence.

• Ben Meiselas quotes Frederick Mares at 04:15: "Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Washington are now no less radical and outrageous than Moscow. Germany views America as no different than Putin."

This outcome is used to illustrate how Trump's actions have not only alienated traditional allies but have also emboldened extremist factions within Europe.

Controversial FBI Appointment

Dan Bongino’s Appointment

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Trump's appointment of Dan Bongino as the Deputy Director of the FBI—a move met with widespread criticism.

• Brett Meiselas remarks at 06:50: "Dan Bongino has never worked a day in the FBI, yet here he is, appointed to a pivotal position. This is unprecedented and deeply concerning."

The brothers critique the appointment as a blatant disregard for the FBI's integrity and a clear attempt to inject partisan ideology into a traditionally apolitical institution.

• Ben Meiselas cites Ken Delano of NBC at 07:20: "Traditionally, the Deputy FBI Director has been a career FBI agent. Appointing someone without such experience is a worrying sign."

FBI’s Reaction and National Security Concerns

The appointment has angered current and former FBI officials, who fear for the bureau's future and national security.

• Jordy Meiselas emphasizes at 08:10: "FBI agents are furious. This move threatens the very fabric of our national security apparatus."

Rapid Decline in Trump’s Approval Ratings

Polling Data and Public Sentiment

The episode presents stark polling data illustrating Trump's plummeting approval ratings.

• Brett Meiselas shares at 09:45: "According to the latest Ipsos poll from February 18th, 54% of voters prefer a Democratic-controlled Congress over Republicans. Americans are overwhelmingly against Trump's policies."

Key statistics highlighted include:

• 76% of Americans believe gas prices are too high.
• 92% disapprove of current food prices.
• Only 35% of Americans trust Donald Trump.

Contrasting Trump and Biden’s Economic Policies

The brothers juxtapose Trump's current economic missteps with the successes of the Biden administration.

• Ben Meiselas states at 11:00: "Under Biden, we saw inflation shrink, 16.4 million new jobs created, and the stock market up by 55-60%. Trump's policies have reversed these gains, leading to market crashes and economic instability."

This comparison underscores the public's preference for Biden's economic stewardship over Trump's disruptive policies.

Media Manipulation and Propaganda

Trump’s Misinformation Campaigns

The podcast scrutinizes Trump's use of social media to propagate falsehoods and undermine federal institutions.

• Jordy Meiselas comments at 12:30: "Trump's constant misinformation about Ukraine aid and federal operations creates a narrative of chaos and incompetence, further eroding public trust."

Elon Musk’s Role

Elon Musk's involvement is also critiqued, highlighting his role in spreading harmful memes and misinformation.

• Brett Meiselas notes at 13:50: "Musk's use of derogatory memes and the spread of conspiratorial content only exacerbate the division and mistrust within our society."

Impact on Federal Workers

The brothers express concern over Trump's treatment of federal employees, portraying them as inefficient and untrustworthy.

• Ben Meiselas reflects at 14:20: "By mocking and firing federal workers without cause, Trump is dehumanizing those who serve our country, which is both unethical and damaging to our institutions."

Calls for Peace and Resolution in Ukraine

International Commentary on Ukraine

The podcast features clips from political commentators advocating for an end to the Ukraine conflict, regardless of its origins.

• Unnamed Political Commentator at 12:17 urges: "The war needs to end. Too many lives have been lost, and it no longer makes sense for the president to continue this conflict."

Meiselas Brothers’ Take

The brothers discuss the complexities of the Ukraine situation, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions over continued warfare.

• Jordy Meiselas adds at 13:10: "Peace through strength should not mean endless conflict. We need to explore avenues that prioritize human lives and regional stability."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up the episode, the Meiselas brothers reiterate the critical state of American politics under Trump's diminishing control. They call for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions and resisting the spread of misinformation.

• Brett Meiselas concludes at 15:50: "Trump’s dangerous blend of populism and incompetence is tearing apart the very foundations of our democracy. It's time for us to step up and safeguard our nation's future."

The brothers encourage their listeners, the MeidasMighty, to stay informed and engaged, emphasizing the podcast's role in fostering democratic support and resilience.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Frederick Mares on Germany’s View of America:

  • “Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Washington are now no less radical and outrageous than Moscow. Germany views America as no different than Putin.” (04:15)

• Pete Hegseth on Firing Military Lawyers:

  • “That's what you do when you're planning to break the law. You get rid of any lawyers who might try to slow you down.” (15:07)

• Dan Bongino on Constitutional Advice:

  • “We want lawyers who give sound constitutional advice and don't exist to attempt to be roadblocks to anything, anything that happens in their spots.” (15:31)

• Unnamed Political Commentator on Ukraine War:

  • “The war, irrespective of who started it, needs to end. Too many people's lives have been expunged as a result of it.” (12:17)

Final Remarks

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast provides a thorough and critical examination of Donald Trump's waning influence and the broader repercussions for American politics and international relations. Through detailed analysis, up-to-date polling data, and incisive commentary, the Meiselas brothers offer their listeners a lucid perspective on the current political landscape, emphasizing the urgent need to support democratic institutions and resist authoritarian tendencies.

For more insightful discussions and updates, join the MeidasTouch brothers and their loyal following, the MeidasMighty. New episodes are released every Tuesday and Friday morning, with breaking news updates available daily. Additionally, catch the brothers LIVE on video every Monday and Thursday night at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT on the MeidasTouch YouTube channel.