The Fifth Column Not Even Matt Drudge Can Make Today Better - On Rob Reiner, Bondi Beach, and DJT (Members Only #291)
Dec 16, 2025
The hosts dive into the reactions surrounding recent tragic events, mixing humor with serious commentary. They dissect Donald Trump's controversial post about Rob Reiner, highlighting its vicious nuances. A discussion emerges on the responsibility of politicians to avoid exploiting tragedy for political gain. The panel contrasts U.S. integration practices with those in Europe, asserting America's strengths. They reflect on the shifting tolerance for Trump's rhetoric among voters and question how this might impact Republican support.
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Schumer's 'Go Bills' Moment
- Michael Moynihan recounts Chuck Schumer beginning a statement about shootings with 'Go Bills,' highlighting awkwardness in political remarks.
- The hosts use this to show tone-deaf or performative responses after tragedies.
Trump Turns Tragedy Into Political Attack
- Donald Trump posted a callous message blaming Rob Reiner's political views for his death and used 'TDS' to deride him.
- The hosts treat this as an extreme example of Trump weaponizing tragedy for political scoring.
Republican Response Reveals Political Fractures
- Hosts call Trump's post 'vile' and highlight how few Republican elected officials publicly condemned it.
- They argue the reaction reveals fractures between punditry and elected politicians on decency norms.