The Daily Beast Podcast How Trump's Greed Will Bring Him Down
Jan 29, 2026
James Talarico, a Texas state senator, former teacher, and Democratic Senate candidate, discusses ICE abuses, immigration and public safety, and the corrupting role of big money. He talks faith versus Christian nationalism, nonviolent protest, outreach across ideological lines, and why new, younger leadership is needed to restore trust in government.
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Voters Feel Conned By Broken Promises
- Many Trump voters feel conned because promises to lower costs and 'drain the swamp' went unfulfilled.
- James Talarico argues corruption and billionaire influence are central causes of this betrayal.
ICE As Secret Police Threatens Communities
- Talarico calls ICE's actions a form of 'secret police' and government overreach that threatens public safety.
- He urges replacing abusive enforcement with agencies focused on cartels and human traffickers, not mothers and small business owners.
Immigration: Welcome Mat And Lock On Door
- Talarico frames immigration as needing both a 'welcome mat' and a 'lock on the door' — pro-immigrant and pro-security.
- He blames two decades of politics for forcing voters between extremes rather than offering balanced policy.
