The Powers That Be: Daily The Epstein Mutiny & G.O.P. Healthcare Headaches
Nov 18, 2025
Leigh Ann Caldwell, a political reporter and Puck contributor, joins to discuss the House vote to release Epstein-related files. She explains Trump's surprising reversal and the implications of potential Republican divisions. The conversation shifts to the GOP's healthcare struggles, highlighting concerns over Obamacare subsidies disappearing. Caldwell reveals how these dynamics leave Republicans vulnerable as they head into an election year, with major health reforms unlikely anytime soon.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Republicans Break With Trump
- Republicans breaking with Trump on the Epstein files signaled a rare political divergence within the party.
- Individual lawmakers prioritized local political survival over aligning with Trump's stance.
Insider: 'He Knows How To Count Votes'
- A Republican ally said of Trump, “he knows how to count votes,” explaining his retreat.
- Lawmakers feared public embarrassment if the party openly defied Trump and still lost the vote.
Trump's Shift Changed Senate Math
- Once Trump supported releasing the files, Senate passage became far more likely, even by voice vote.
- A rapid White House coordination shifted the calculus for Senate Republicans within 24 hours.
