
The Daily Beast Podcast Trump Aides Are Secretly Prepping for His Downfall
Dec 21, 2025
Michael Wolff, an author known for his deep dive into Donald Trump's world, joins Joanna Coles to explore troubling signs of Trump's cognitive decline. They discuss how his inner circle rationalizes alarming behaviors as merely 'Trump being Trump.' Wolff highlights the impact of Susie Wiles on Marco Rubio's image and examines the culture of loyalty within Trump's camp. As Trump’s grandiosity escalates, they question the silence surrounding his health and its implications for the future of politics.
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See Trump From Inside His Head
- Reporters misunderstand Trump by treating him as a normal politician rather than seeing his internal psychology.
- Michael Wolff argues you must think from Trump's point of view to explain his behavior and decisions.
Epstein File Release Was Strategic
- The DOJ released a limited, heavily redacted batch of Epstein files timed to minimize publicity.
- Wolff says the release strategy protects names Trump wants shielded and delays full transparency.
Stefanik's Rise And Sudden Fall
- Elise Stefanik rose from a moderate New York Republican to a Trump loyalist with rapid political rewards.
- She expected the UN ambassadorship but was denied by Trump, collapsing her planned career trajectory.

