

MAGA Fractures Over Epstein. Plus, What Michael Douglas Movies Tell Us About Masculinity.
Jul 19, 2025
Dan Friedman, a senior reporter for Mother Jones, delves into Trump's tumultuous ties with Jeffrey Epstein, dissecting the rift within the MAGA movement fueled by conspiracy theories. Jessa Crispin, critic and editor-in-chief of The Culture We Deserve, examines the 'masculinity crisis' using Michael Douglas films as a lens. Through iconic roles, she highlights the evolving portrayals of masculinity and questions traditional gender norms, inviting listeners to reflect on the cultural implications of these narratives.
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Episode notes
Epstein Files Show No Incriminating List
- The Epstein files released show no evidence of incriminating client lists or blackmail by Epstein involving prominent individuals.
- Investigators found the footage confirmed Epstein died by suicide without outside interference.
Epstein Files Fracture MAGA Base
- Trump's administration promised transparency on Epstein files but failed to deliver, causing frustration within MAGA and wider political divides.
- The issue exploded into a fracture point for his base and opponents, exacerbating distrust.
Advocate Caution on Epstein Theories
- Caution is vital when interpreting Epstein-related information to avoid conspiracy theories.
- Stick to verified facts and avoid speculation about potential criminality in unreleased files.