

The Readback: Our Amazon scoop
May 3, 2025
Diego Areas Munhoz, a tech reporter at Punchbowl News, reveals the behind-the-scenes scoop on Amazon's initiative to display tariff costs for consumers. The conversation led to a surprising call between Jeff Bezos and Trump, showcasing the tangled web of business and politics. They discuss the potential backlash Amazon might face and how the company strategized to navigate this controversy. Additionally, Diego touches on the cultural impact of landmark TV shows, linking them to Amazon’s influence in modern commerce.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Amazon Tariff Disclosure Sparks Trump Call
- Amazon's plan to show tariff costs to customers sparked a political backlash from the Trump administration. - This reflects how tariff concerns dominate political and business considerations in the US right now.
Amazon's Nuanced Response to Scoop
- Amazon acknowledged considering showing tariffs but tried to limit the scope to Amazon Hall products. - Their careful wording suggests an attempt to manage public and political reaction without fully denying it.
Tech Firms Prioritize Political Relationships
- Amazon and other tech giants try to stay on good terms with Trump to protect government contracts. - Political considerations influence business decisions more than immediate interests in this administration.