The MeidasTouch Podcast: "Trump Voters Turn Against Him as His Approval Crashes"

Release Date: February 23, 2025

Introduction and Context

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve into the shifting sentiments among Donald Trump’s support base. As Trump’s approval ratings decline, many of his former staunch supporters are publicly expressing regret and frustration over his administration's policies and actions. The discussion is enriched with personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and a critical examination of Trump’s business dealings.

Personal Stories of Trump Supporters Turning Against Him

Former IRS Worker’s Experience

Timestamp [01:12]

Ben Meiselas introduces a poignant story from a former IRS employee who once supported Trump but was dismissed during his administration. The worker recounts his initial support:

"I thought that someone with, like, his business acumen would have come in with a fine tooth comb and actually found it instead of coming in with a wrecking ball and destroying people's lives for no reason."
— Former IRS Worker [01:12]

This individual highlights the unintended consequences of Trump’s policies on federal employees, emphasizing the inefficiency and chaos that ensued, leading to mass firings.

Congressman Troy Balderson’s Shift

Timestamp [07:01]

The podcast discusses Congressman Troy Balderson, a Republican from Ohio's R+18 district, who has publicly criticized Trump’s executive orders. Initially a supporter, Balderson now urges Congress to intervene:

"I fully support Trump's agenda to rein in bloated federal government and put America first. Now it's time for Congress to act."
— Troy Balderson [07:01]

However, shortly after his condemnation, Balderson appears to retract his stance, displaying the internal conflicts within the Republican Party.

Disabled Veterans and Federal Workers

The hosts share multiple accounts of disabled veterans and federal employees who supported Trump but faced job losses and personal hardships due to his administration’s policies:

"I voted for Donald Trump, but this is not what I was expecting. We didn't think they were going to take a chainsaw to a silk rug."
— WTOP News: FEMA Civil Servant and Disabled Veteran [11:00]

Additionally, a Missouri woman expresses shame over deporting her long-term resident daughter-in-law, illustrating the personal toll of Trump’s immigration policies.

Analysis of Trump’s Business Failures

Timestamp [02:05]

Ben Meiselas provides a comprehensive overview of Donald Trump’s track record in business, countering the narrative of Trump as a successful entrepreneur:

"Trump bankrupted his casinos. He bankrupted most of the companies he touched and owned. Bankruptcy after bankruptcy."
— Ben Meiselas [02:05]

He cites Trump Media's significant financial losses as a recent example:

"Trump Media, which lost $400 million last year and only earned $3.6 million in revenue."
— Ben Meiselas [03:00]

The podcast further references Trump’s multiple Chapter 11 bankruptcies and failed ventures, reinforcing the argument that Trump’s business acumen is questionable.

Current Approval Ratings and Political Climate

Timestamp [07:01]

The hosts highlight the plummeting approval ratings of Donald Trump, noting a significant shift among voters:

"Donald Trump's approval is plummeting. Democrats, generic Democrats versus generic Republicans in Congress. Democrats are up like +12, +15. Right now."
— Ben Meiselas [07:01]

They discuss the growing dissatisfaction among Republicans and the broader electorate, citing that even within Republican strongholds, support for Trump is waning.

Georgia’s 7th Congressional District Example

Timestamp [12:21]

The podcast references Representative Rich McCormick from Georgia’s 7th district, illustrating the internal GOP struggles:

"Tyranny is rising in the White House and a man has declared himself our king. So I would like to know, rather the people would like to know what you congressmen and your fellow congressmen are going to do to rein in the megalomaniac in the White House."
— Audience Member [12:21]

Balderson responds dismissively, reflecting the tension and lack of unified stance within the party.

Impact on Federal Employees and Veterans

Timestamp [05:41]

The podcast sheds light on the disproportionate impact of Trump’s policies on federal employees and veterans:

"Military veterans make up... between 30 plus percent of people who are in the government."
— Ben Meiselas [05:41]

Stories of veterans losing jobs and facing unwarranted dismissals are presented, showcasing the personal costs of political decisions.

Upcoming Protests and Future Outlook

Timestamp [12:57]

Ben Meiselas anticipates a surge in peaceful protests as dissatisfaction continues to mount:

"I think you're going to see big, growing, peaceful protests, and we'll be with you there every step of the way."
— Ben Meiselas [12:57]

He encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged, emphasizing the role of local journalism and community support.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode wraps up with a strong call to action for listeners to subscribe, support local journalism, and engage with the MeidasTouch community. Emphasizing the importance of informed citizenry, the hosts urge their audience to stay connected as political dynamics continue to evolve.

Notable Quotes Summary

• Former IRS Worker [01:12]: "I thought that someone with, like, his business acumen would have come in with a fine tooth comb and actually found it instead of coming in with a wrecking ball and destroying people's lives for no reason."

• Ben Meiselas [02:05]: "Trump bankrupted his casinos. He bankrupted most of the companies he touched and owned. Bankruptcy after bankruptcy."

• Troy Balderson [07:01]: "I fully support Trump's agenda to rein in bloated federal government and put America first. Now it's time for Congress to act."

• WTOP News Veteran [11:00]: "I voted for Donald Trump, but this is not what I was expecting. We didn't think they were going to take a chainsaw to a silk rug."

• Ben Meiselas [12:57]: "I think you're going to see big, growing, peaceful protests, and we'll be with you there every step of the way."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a critical examination of the waning support for Donald Trump among his base, highlighting personal stories that underscore the administration's controversial impact on federal employees and veterans. Through incisive analysis and heartfelt narratives, the Meiselas brothers provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current political landscape and the shifting allegiances within American society.

Subscribe to The MeidasTouch Podcast for more in-depth discussions on current events, political shifts, and personal stories shaping our democracy.