The Playbook Podcast July 18, 2025: Trump, Epstein and ‘another wonderful secret’
Jul 18, 2025
A deep dive into the controversial friendship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, sparked by a revealing birthday greeting. The discussion highlights how this revelation could impact the fractured MAGA movement and reshapes political narratives. With insights from POLITICO’s Megan Messerly, the conversation explores Trump’s evolving dynamics with key figures, including VP J.D. Vance, and touches on the political landscape surrounding Epstein files and cryptocurrency legislation, all with a dash of humor.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
MAGA Unity Against Media
- The exposed birthday album note with a drawing allegedly from Trump reignited MAGA unity amid prior division over Epstein files. - The media, particularly the Wall Street Journal, instantly united Trump's base in defensive outrage.
J.D. Vance Leads Counterattack
- Vice President J.D. Vance shifted from silence to leading sharp attack on WSJ after Trump directed focus toward promoting accomplishments. - Vance's re-engagement indicates strategic narrative control within the White House amid controversy.
Murdoch-Trump Media Tensions
- Trump's threat to sue Rupert Murdoch amid a close personal relationship reveals the complex interplay in his media dealings. - Murdoch's prior knowledge of the WSJ story underscores the tension within Trump's media ecosystem.