The Political Scene | The New Yorker Is the Epstein Scandal Trump’s Kryptonite?
48 snips
Nov 15, 2025 
Michael Isikoff, a seasoned investigative reporter known for uncovering major political scandals, joins the discussion on the recently released Epstein documents. He reveals how these communications could fracture Trump's base and impact GOP unity. The panel explores the risks of unverified DOJ files and debates whether scandals still effectively hold presidents accountable today. Isikoff also addresses Trump's resistance to disclosure, examines Epstein's influential ties, and considers the changing landscape of political accountability in America.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Epstein Files Split The GOP
- The Epstein email release exposed fractures in the GOP by forcing Republicans to choose between loyalty to Trump and transparency.
- The documents' publication risked smearing uncharged people and deepening partisan divides, per Michael Isikoff.
Raw DOJ Dumps Can Harm Innocents
- Releasing raw Justice Department files can wrongly publicize uncorroborated allegations about uncharged third parties.
- Michael Isikoff warned that this practice violates DOJ norms and risks reputational harm and civil-liberties concerns.
Impeachment Is No Longer A Reliable Check
- Scandals no longer reliably produce accountability because polarization prevents conviction in institutions like the Senate.
- Impeachment now functions poorly as a check on a president in a deeply divided country.