Podcast Summary: The Dan Bongino Show – "They Fell Right Into Trump's Trap" (Ep. 2417)
Release Date: February 6, 2025
Host: Dan Bongino
Network: Cumulus Podcast Network
Introduction and Project Announcement (00:03 – 06:41)
Dan Bongino kicks off the episode with palpable excitement, emphasizing the importance of today's discussion. He introduces a long-term research project focused on exposing a deep state slush fund managed by USAID, alleging misuse of taxpayer dollars for anti-American activities and censorship. Bongino hints at a groundbreaking connection between Ukraine, the deep state, USAID, and the impeachment and collusion hoaxes surrounding Donald Trump.
Notable Quote:
"This stuff is going to blow your mind." — Dan Bongino [00:25]
Unveiling the USAID Deep State Connection (06:42 – 25:01)
Bongino delves deeper into his thesis, referencing investigative reporter Michael Shellenberger's recent findings that link USAID to biased media funding aimed at regime change. He asserts that USAID has been channeling funds to left-leaning and communist factions, undermining American interests both domestically and internationally.
Discussion with Michael Shellenberger
Shellenberger elaborates on how USAID and the CIA orchestrated Trump's impeachment by funding media outlets that produced biased reports, which were then used by whistleblowers to justify impeaching the president. He points out that USAID’s Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) was instrumental in creating the narrative used against Trump.
Notable Quotes:
"The President has not committed to putting boots on the ground in Gaza." — Caroline Levitt [20:41]
"These numbers are really illuminating on this topic." — Michael Shellenberger [48:16]
The Book "Follow the Money"
Bongino references his book, Follow the Money, highlighting its relevance to the current USAID scandal. He reveals that the book foresaw many aspects of the ongoing deep state activities, particularly the role of Ukraine as a "piggy bank" for corrupt practices.
Notable Quote:
"Get ready. It's a lot coming at you, so get your pens out." — Dan Bongino [03:00]
Trump's Gaza Remarks and Media Reactions (25:02 – 48:15)
Bongino analyzes President Donald Trump's comments regarding Gaza, which initially caused widespread panic among listeners fearing an imminent American invasion. He clarifies that Trump's statements were strategic, aimed at leveraging regional partnerships without committing U.S. taxpayer dollars. Bongino commends the Bongino Army for maintaining composure and waiting for further clarification.
Notable Quotes:
"He uses a maximalist position as a leverage point." — Dan Bongino [19:50]
"Donald Trump knows full well that the deep state slush fund of USAID funding media outlets ... is probably the biggest political scandal of our time." — Dan Bongino [11:30]
Midterm Election Predictions and Strategies (48:16 – 70:00)
Looking ahead to the midterm elections, Bongino warns of potential Democratic strategies to impeach Trump again if Republicans lose key seats. He emphasizes the importance of voting tactically to support Trump-led initiatives and prevent further impeachment attempts. Bongino criticizes Democratic leaders, labeling their impeachment efforts as baseless and politically motivated.
Notable Quotes:
"If we lose in the midterms, Donald Trump will be impeached again." — Dan Bongino [60:45]
"The Democrats are in total disarray." — Dan Bongino [61:10]
The "Cannibalism Theory" and Left-Wing Politics (70:01 – 90:00)
Bongino introduces his "Cannibalism Theory," suggesting that when left-wing issues lose public support, the same factions that once promoted them begin to destroy their own movements to retain financial gains. He cites the transgender athlete debate as an example, noting overwhelming public opposition despite continued leftist efforts to push the agenda for monetary benefits.
Notable Quotes:
"The cannibalism theory is this. They don't want to give up the gravy train even when the issue buries the Democrat party." — Dan Bongino [80:30]
"They are killing a ton of you terrorist assholes, too." — Dan Bongino [75:15]
Katherine Rummler and the Epstein Scandal (90:01 – 115:00)
Bongino shifts focus to Katherine Rummler, former White House counsel under Obama, highlighting her involvement in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. He accuses Rummler of protecting high-level Democrats and orchestrating cover-ups to shield influential figures like the Clintons. Bongino underscores the lack of accountability for those involved in the scandal, painting Rummler as a central figure in safeguarding corrupt networks.
Notable Quotes:
"What the hell was Jeffrey Epstein doing meeting with Barack Obama's fixer, his White House counsel?" — Dan Bongino [105:20]
"This Jeffrey Epstein story, folks, we haven't even scratched the surface of what the hell was the Obama fixer meeting with this guy for?" — Dan Bongino [114:50]
Conclusion and Final Thoughts (115:01 – End)
In his closing remarks, Bongino urges listeners to read his book, Follow the Money, to fully grasp the complexities of the USAID scandal and its far-reaching implications. He reinforces the necessity of understanding these connections to combat the deep state's influence and protect American sovereignty.
Notable Quote:
"Follow the money wherever you can get it. I don't really care. Borrow it. But read this." — Dan Bongino [118:30]
Bongino concludes by promoting his show's availability on various platforms and encourages listeners to stay informed and vigilant against ongoing political maneuvers aimed at undermining Trump's legacy and American interests.
Final Notes:
Dan Bongino's episode "They Fell Right Into Trump's Trap" presents a comprehensive narrative linking USAID's financial activities to broader political scandals, including Trump's impeachment and deep state operations. Through detailed discussions and critical analysis, Bongino urges listeners to uncover the hidden connections shaping current American politics.
