The Playbook Podcast Deadline day
Dec 19, 2025
A significant deadline looms as the Justice Department prepares to release Epstein files, sparking questions about their political implications. The White House strategizes to manage fallout, hoping the documents won’t reignite scandal. Insights into Susie Wiles' comments reveal which voter demographics may be most affected. Adam and Megan also discuss Trump's latest affordability tour in North Carolina and how he could be positioned as a key figure in the upcoming midterms. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted take on the Kennedy Center renaming.
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Files Could Let White House Move On
- The DOJ must release thousands of Epstein-related pages, so the White House hopes a weak drop will let them move on.
- Megan Messerly says the administration sees this as a hurdle they would rather not face but must clear.
Epstein Story Targets New Coalition
- Susie Wiles suggested the Epstein issue threatens the 'new coalition' more than the MAGA base.
- Adam Wren frames this as a potential crack in the coalition the White House most wants to protect.
Affordability Tour Is Turnout Strategy
- The White House is using Trump's affordability messaging to both address middle-America concerns and energize core voters.
- Megan Messerly says the strategy explicitly aims to put Trump 'on the ballot' to boost midterm turnout.