Podcast Summary: VINCE - "It Could All Go Down Today" | Episode 84
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host: Vince Coglianese
Network: Cumulus Podcast Network
Introduction
In Episode 84 of VINCE, host Vince Coglianese delves deep into several pressing national security and political issues. From the internal dynamics of the FBI to the Secret Service’s recent lapses, and a groundbreaking revelation about President Joe Biden’s clemency decisions, Vince provides a comprehensive and engaging analysis of current events that are shaping the political landscape.
FBI Internal Conflicts: Dan Bongino vs. Pam Bondi
Vince begins the episode by addressing the turmoil within the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Key figures at the center of this conflict are Deputy Director Dan Bongino and Attorney General Pam Bondi.
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Leaked Internal Disputes: Vince explains that the public has become aware of tensions between Bongino and Bondi not because they publicly disclosed them, but due to leaks. He emphasizes, “Dan Bongino did not make public, that Cash Patel did not make public, that Pam Bondi did not make public” (00:00).
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Dan Bongino’s Commitment: Reflecting on Bongino’s dedication, Vince states, “I don't know Pam Bondi, but I knew no Dan Bongino. And boy, am I glad that he's the deputy director of the FBI. Do I think that this is a sincere man... who has a sincere love of country” (06:20).
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Conflict Over Epstein Case: The disagreement stems from how information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case is being handled. Vince criticizes a memo from the Department of Justice that prematurely closed the case, asserting, “Whatever the goal of that was, the exact opposite occurred” (07:03).
President Trump's Stance on Epstein Files
President Donald Trump’s dissatisfaction with the handling of the Epstein files is a significant focus.
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Trump’s Critique: Vince highlights Trump’s statement on Truth Social, where he questions the motives behind releasing the Epstein files, suggesting political manipulation: “They created the Epstein files just like they created the fake Hillary Clinton Christopher Steele dossier” (09:14).
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Impact on FBI Leadership: Vince connects Trump’s comments to the ongoing struggles within the FBI, pondering whether Bongino’s position is at risk due to the President’s shifting support: “But if there were concessions that were able to be drawn from this? What if they're able to fix the system...” (17:20).
Dan Bongino’s Position and Trump’s Support
Amidst the conflict, Dan Bongino remains a pivotal figure within the FBI.
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President’s Support: Trump publicly supports Bongino, saying, “Dan Bongino, very good guy... I think he's in good shape” (17:08).
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Optimism for Bongino’s Future: Vince expresses unwavering support for Bongino, regardless of his future decisions, stating, “Whatever he decides to do, he's going to make the right thing for himself, for his family and for his country” (08:25).
Secret Service Failures: One-Year Anniversary of Butler Incident
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Secret Service’s shortcomings, especially one year after the Butler assassination attempt.
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Susan Crabtree’s Insights: Journalista Susan Crabtree from RealClear Politics joins the show to shed light on recent Senate reports revealing deep-rooted issues within the Secret Service. She outlines how senior supervisors like Nick Mener and Nick Olinsky escaped accountability, receiving promotions instead of facing consequences: “They not only got big, huge promotions out of it” (32:30).
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Operational Failures: Crabtree discusses critical failures, including inadequate sniper protocols and lack of communication with local law enforcement, highlighting tragic oversights: “There are still major DEI problems... low morale that keeps happening” (38:52).
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Security Disparities: The disparity in security provisions between President Trump and Jill Biden is scrutinized. Vince posits that Jill Biden’s concurrent indoor event diverted necessary resources, making Trump’s outdoor rally more vulnerable: “I believe that Jill Biden is the reason President Trump's life was in peril in Butler a year ago” (40:13).
Public Figures and the Secret Service
Vince touches upon lighter yet telling incidents involving the Secret Service, highlighting inconsistencies in their protective measures.
- J.D. Vance at Disneyland: Vince humorously recounts seeing Senator J.D. Vance enjoying Disneyland with Secret Service agents, pointing out the contrast between high-profile security responsibilities and mundane activities: “He’s in the Flume ride... It's so funny” (51:10).
Groundbreaking Revelation: Biden’s Clemency Decisions via Auto Pen
One of the most explosive segments of the episode is Vince’s analysis of a New York Times report concerning President Joe Biden’s clemency actions.
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Auto Pen Controversy: The report alleges that Biden used an “auto pen” to replicate his signature on pardons without direct involvement, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy and oversight of these decisions. Vince summarizes, “The assistants who then drafted the blurbs were not even in the room with Mr. Biden” (42:43).
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Chain of Custody Issues: Vince deconstructs the multi-layered process involving Biden’s aides, highlighting the lack of direct supervision: “The number of people who are involved in the chain of custody here” (50:40).
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Implications for Accountability: This revelation suggests potential misuse of presidential authority and raises questions about accountability within the Biden administration: “This is a scam. They put Joe Biden on the phone... It was all an attempt to cover up” (42:43).
Conclusion
Vince wraps up the episode by emphasizing the gravity of these revelations and their implications for national security and political integrity. He remains optimistic about potential positive changes, especially concerning Dan Bongino’s role in the FBI, and underscores the importance of accountability within protective agencies like the Secret Service.
Notable Quotes
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Vince on Dan Bongino’s Dedication:
“I saw that clip and not for a moment did I think he was bitching or whining... It was to convey the seriousness with which he takes the job.”
(06:20) -
Vince on Secret Service Accountability:
“They have to work with the journalists. They've got to work Congress.”
(50:41) -
President Trump on Dan Bongino:
“Dan Bongino, very good guy. I've known him a long time... I think he's in good shape.”
(17:08)
Final Thoughts
Episode 84 of VINCE offers a thorough examination of critical issues within federal agencies and the broader political sphere. Vince Coglianese’s insightful commentary, coupled with expert interviews, provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities facing the nation’s security and governance. Whether it's internal FBI conflicts, Secret Service missteps, or unprecedented presidential actions, this episode serves as a vital resource for staying informed and engaged with the current political discourse.
For those who missed this episode, stay tuned for future discussions and analyses on VINCE, where political acumen meets authentic insight.
