Power Lines with Oliver Darcy and Jon Passantino

Olivia Nuzzi Scandal Rocks Vanity Fair, Trump’s Disturbing MBS Defense, and Fox News’ Epstein Spin

8 snips
Nov 21, 2025
Former journalist Olivia Nuzzi faces fallout as allegations about her reporting relationships surface, raising serious ethical questions. Meanwhile, Trump’s defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sparks controversy, especially during a state dinner attended by notable figures. The show delves into the implications of media connections, highlighting Ben Shapiro's newfound hypocrisy in his Golden Globes campaign. Finally, the discussion turns to the release of the Epstein files and the intense spin from right-wing media on Trump's involvement.
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INSIGHT

Conde Nast's Risky Hire And Silence

  • Condé Nast faces reputational risk for hiring Olivia Nuzzi despite prior ethical concerns uncovered at New York Magazine.
  • Silence from leadership suggests they hoped to weather controversy rather than confront it publicly.
ANECDOTE

Book Excerpt Sparks Fresh Allegations

  • Olivia Nuzzi published an excerpt in Vanity Fair describing her emotional affair with RFK Jr. while covering him.
  • Ryan Lizza then alleged she had a second relationship with Mark Sanford, reigniting scrutiny.
INSIGHT

Geographic Distance Won't Fix Trust Issues

  • Hiring Nuzzi as West Coast editor appears meant to distance her from Washington controversies while leveraging her name recognition.
  • That move may not restore audience trust and could increase pressure to prove her credibility.
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