The MeidasTouch Podcast: "Trump Wakes Up to Nightmare as Bottom Falls Out" – Detailed Summary
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Hosts: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas
Overview
In the episode titled "Trump Wakes Up to Nightmare as Bottom Falls Out," the Meiselas brothers—Ben, Brett, and Jordy—delve deep into the escalating political and economic crises surrounding former President Donald Trump. Combining sharp analysis with their trademark brotherly banter, the hosts explore Trump’s plummeting approval ratings, the fallout from his trade policies, internal chaos within his administration, and his deteriorating international relationships. This comprehensive discussion offers listeners an insightful look into the multifaceted challenges Trump faces as his influence wanes.
1. Donald Trump's Plummeting Approval Ratings
Ben kicks off the episode by addressing Trump's severely declining popularity. Citing data from the Pew Research poll, he underscores the depth of Trump's unpopularity across various demographics.
- Ben (00:01): "The American people hate you. They see through your lies. They see what a vile, deceitful, pathetic piece of trash you are."
Key statistics highlighted include:
- Overall Approval: 40% approval vs. 59% disapproval.
- Black Community Support: Only 14% support Donald Trump.
- Hispanic Support: A mere 27%.
- Asian Community Support: 29%.
- Youth Support (Ages 18-29): 36% support vs. 64% disapproval.
Ben emphasizes that these numbers are not isolated to independent polls but are consistent across major outlets, including Fox News.
- Ben (02:15): "Donald Trump's approval based on the new Fox poll is the lowest in modern presidential history."
He contrasts Trump's approval ratings with those of recent presidents:
- Joe Biden: 54%
- Barack Obama: 62%
- George W. Bush: 63%
2. Economic Fallout from Trade Policies
The discussion shifts to the detrimental effects of Trump's tariff policies, which have sparked widespread economic instability.
- Ben (05:30): “72% of people say tariffs make products more expensive. Only 7% say less. That's bad for you, Donald.”
Key points include:
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Significant lag times and scarcity of goods, reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic shortages.
- Impact on Industries:
- Freight Industry: Trucking activity out of Los Angeles down by 23%, projected to drop to 50%.
- Retailers' Concerns: CEOs from Walmart, Target, and Home Depot warned of impending supply issues and price hikes.
Ben cites insights from industry experts:
- Craig Fuller, Freight Analyst (07:45): "Industrial trucking is already in a recession. Eighty percent of the trucking industry voted for Trump, but they will be among the first victims of the trade war."
He also highlights internal contradictions within Trump's administration regarding tariffs:
- Ben (09:00): “Trump indicated he might walk back tariffs, only to threaten raising them against Canada.”
3. Internal Administration Chaos
Ben exposes the turmoil within Trump's circle, illustrating a lack of coherent strategy and increasing infighting.
- Ben (10:30): “It's pure and utter chaos in the Trump regime.”
Notable incidents include:
- Adviser Conflicts: Steve Bannon criticizes Elon Musk, leading to public disputes.
- Policy Reversals: Mixed messages on tariff adjustments, causing further instability.
Ben draws parallels between Trump’s current behavior and his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a pattern of denial and scapegoating.
- Ben (08:56): “Goldman Sachs is predicting that's going to be a $90 billion hit to the American economy. Doesn't this give you the vibes of COVID when Donald Trump was like a miracle, it's all going to go away.”
4. International Relations and Diplomatic Failures
The episode delves into Trump's strained relationships on the global stage, particularly focusing on his comments about Canada and Ukraine.
- Ben (09:37): “Trump says Canada would cease to exist without American support. This kind of rhetoric undermines international partnerships.”
Key incidents:
- Canadian Relations: Trump suggests annexing Canada, a move that has alarmed international leaders.
- Ukraine Conflict: Amid ongoing missile attacks by Putin, Trump focuses on criticizing Ukrainian President Zelensky, showcasing a disconnect from pressing global issues.
- Impact on Tourism: A decline in international travel to the U.S. by 12%, as reported by Goldman Sachs, attributed to Trump's nationalist rhetoric.
Ben underscores the irony of Trump’s focus on domestic issues while international crises escalate.
5. Cognitive Concerns and Public Persona
Ben raises concerns about Trump's cognitive state, noting behaviors that suggest potential cognitive decline, though he cautiously avoids labeling Trump with a medical diagnosis.
- Ben (12:00): “Donald Trump was also showing these signs of severe cognitive issues... he may be showing symptoms of dementia.”
He warns that Trump may use such claims as a defense mechanism against accountability.
- Ben (12:15): “He'll go there down the line to try to protect himself when he's being held accountable.”
6. Market Manipulation and Economic Strategies
The hosts examine Trump's influence on financial markets, highlighting his use of the Trump meme coin as a tactic to manipulate market sentiments.
- Ben (16:00): “Our economy right now looks like one gigantic pump and dump meme coin.”
Key observations:
- Financial Manipulation: Trump’s promotion of his meme coin caused a temporary spike, reflecting his volatile impact on markets.
- Insider Deals: Private meetings between Trump and financial elites, such as Treasury Secretary Scott Besant, indicate a lack of transparency and favoritism.
7. Humanitarian Issues and Government Response
The episode addresses Trump’s administration’s inadequate response to natural disasters in red states, showcasing a pattern of neglect.
- Ben (16:45): “Trump denied emergency relief to Kentucky for flooding assistance... It’s just cruelty, cruelty, cruelty.”
He contrasts this with the expected role of government in providing protection and safety to its citizens.
Conclusion
The Meiselas brothers provide a compelling critique of Donald Trump's current standing, painting a picture of a leader embroiled in political, economic, and personal crises. From devastating approval ratings and flawed trade policies to international diplomatic failures and potential cognitive decline, the episode underscores the multifaceted challenges Trump faces as his influence continues to wane. The hosts affirm their commitment to covering these developments comprehensively, urging listeners to stay informed and engaged.
Notable Quotes
- Ben (00:01): "The American people hate you. They see through your lies."
- Ben (02:15): "Donald Trump's approval based on the new Fox poll is the lowest in modern presidential history."
- Ben (05:30): “72% of people say tariffs make products more expensive. Only 7% say less. That's bad for you, Donald.”
- Ben (10:30): “It's pure and utter chaos in the Trump regime.”
- Ben (12:00): “Donald Trump was also showing these signs of severe cognitive issues...”
- Ben (16:00): “Our economy right now looks like one gigantic pump and dump meme coin.”
- Ben (16:45): “Trump denied emergency relief to Kentucky for flooding assistance... It’s just cruelty, cruelty, cruelty.”
Additional Resources
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