The MeidasTouch Podcast: "Trump Top Advisor Hides From Press After Causing Crash" Release Date: March 31, 2025
In this intense and insightful episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the recent actions and implications of Trump’s top advisor, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The discussion navigates through Lutnick’s sudden disappearance from the press, his controversial statements regarding the economy, and the broader ramifications of the Trump administration’s policies on America’s financial stability.
1. Howard Lutnick’s Sudden Withdrawal from the Press
The episode kicks off with Host 2 highlighting a significant development: Howard Lutnick, who has been the face of Trump’s economic policies, has mysteriously gone silent amidst escalating economic turmoil.
Host 2 [00:30]: "Howard Lutnick is like a sham. Wow salesman. He's been on TV all this time and he's been pushing and peddling the most ridiculous stuff by Donald Trump."
The hosts express concern over Lutnick’s absence, especially with the impending implementation of Trump’s tariffs on April 2, termed "Liberation Day." They note his absence from critical interviews, citing a missed appearance on CBS Face the Nation.
Host 2 [00:25]: "Howard Lutnick refused to Face the Nation... He seemed to be vacationing with Donald Trump."
2. Analyzing Lutnick’s Economic Assertions
Lutnick has been vocally optimistic about the economy, often dismissing negative economic indicators. The hosts dissect his statements, comparing him to a contrived infomercial pitchman.
Host 2 [02:59]: "Howard Lutnick... says whatever he needs to say to get in Donald Trump's good graces."
One notable instance is Lutnick’s dismissal of the Atlanta Federal Reserve’s prediction of a 2.4% economic contraction.
Host 2 [02:30]: "Say a couple of words... That is ridiculous."
The hosts mock Lutnick’s communication style, likening it to the aggressive sales tactics of Vince Offer’s ShamWow infomercial.
Host 2 [04:04]: "Howard Lutnick’s like a ShamWow salesman... That guy reminds me so much of Howard Lutnick."
3. The Impact of Lutnick’s Policies on the Economy
The discussion shifts to the tangible effects of Lutnick’s and the Trump administration’s policies. The hosts argue that despite Lutnick’s assurances, the economy is on a downward spiral.
Host 2 [05:44]: "We're left with 4% unemployment, record low unemployment, record highs in the stock market, about 16.2 million new jobs... But a few weeks back... these idiots screwed it all up."
They highlight the disconnect between high-profile economic achievements touted by Lutnick and the average American’s declining financial well-being.
4. Criticism of Economic Management and Public Communication
The hosts are particularly critical of Lutnick’s approach to public communication, accusing him of downplaying economic hardships and deflecting blame.
Host 2 [07:06]: "The president wants American growth and American prosperity. And the fact that the stock market goes down... That is not the driving force of our outcomes."
Further criticism is directed at Lutnick’s comments on Social Security and empathetic communication regarding federal workforce reductions.
Host 2 [08:14]: "A fraudster always makes the loudest noise, screaming, yelling and complaining."
The hosts also highlight Lutnick’s appearance on right-wing propaganda shows, emphasizing his alignment with Trump’s controversial stances.
5. Market Reactions and Economic Forecasts
The episode delves into the current state of the stock market, showcasing significant declines and attributing them to the administration’s policies.
Host 1 [13:34]: "Dow is losing about 724. The S&P down 113. The NASDAQ down 484."
They reference Larry Kudlow’s commentary on a market crash exacerbated by bad inflation reports and tariff confusion, underscoring the precarious economic situation.
6. Expert Opinions and Wider Implications
Former Obama Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel is brought into the conversation to provide an expert perspective on the administration’s economic management.
Host 2 [17:31]: "Rahm Emanuel... 'We worked hard to stop recession. These idiots want to create a recession.'"
Emanuel criticizes the Trump administration for its handling of tariffs and economic policies, suggesting that these actions are deliberately undermining economic stability.
Rahm Emanuel [17:31]: "Our job is to help them economically, not hurt them."
7. Conclusion: The Path Forward
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the impending economic challenges and the potential for a severe recession or even a depression if current policies persist.
Host 2 [15:12]: "I think America will be lucky at this point if it's a recession. I think we're heading into a great recession, if not a great depression as a result of what Trump's doing right now."
They call for listeners to stay informed and vigilant, emphasizing the critical state of the economy under the Trump administration’s policies.
Notable Quotes:
- Host 2 [00:25]: "Howard Lutnick refused to Face the Nation."
- Host 2 [02:30]: "That is ridiculous."
- Host 2 [04:04]: "Howard Lutnick’s like a ShamWow salesman."
- Host 2 [07:06]: "That is not the driving force of our outcomes."
- Rahm Emanuel [17:31]: "Our job is to help them economically, not hurt them."
Final Thoughts
This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast provides a scathing critique of Howard Lutnick and Trump’s economic strategies, backed by detailed analysis and expert opinions. The hosts effectively communicate their concerns about the administration’s handling of the economy, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the potential risks and repercussions of ongoing policies. For those seeking an in-depth understanding of the current political and economic landscape, this episode serves as a compelling and informative resource.