The Chuck ToddCast

The Chuck ToddCast - Who Takes The Fall For Tariff Disaster? + Trump’s Enemies List

Apr 11, 2025

Marc Caputo, Senior White House Reporter for Axios, joins to dissect the evolving landscape of Trump's governance. They discuss how past guardrails are missing in Trump's potential second term and the fallout from the disastrous tariff rollout, with Howard Lutnick likely facing the blame. Caputo reveals how Trump can no longer blame Biden for economic troubles and explores Trump's targeting of whistleblowers. Additionally, they examine the shifting loyalties within Trump's circle and hint at looming controversies in Florida politics.

54:31

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Episode guests

Marc Caputo

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The shift from Trump 1.0 to Trump 2.0 reflects a strategic change towards loyalty over convention, impacting governance style significantly.

Economic uncertainties from tariff policies indicate potential long-term repercussions for American businesses and international relationships amid rising anti-American sentiments.

Deep dives

Understanding Trump's Tariff Pullback

The recent pullback on tariffs by the Trump administration illustrates a shift in strategy prompted by significant pressure from various stakeholders. As multiple CEOs reached out to express their concerns, the administration recognized the potential risks of a tariff war, particularly with China. The concern was not only about immediate economic impacts but also the long-term implications for American businesses operating abroad, with increasing anti-American sentiments noted in surveys due to these tariffs. This acknowledgement of external influences signifies a critical moment for Trump's approach to economic policy, highlighting the continual tension between maintaining his base and addressing broader economic stability.

Intro

4min

The Chilling Effect of Leadership: Dissecting Trump's Governance Style

4min

Tariffs, Anti-American Sentiment, and Insights on the Trump Administration

3min

The Political Dynamics of the Trump White House

7min

Tariff Turmoil and Political Dynamics

15min

Loyalty and Legal Challenges in Trump's Circle

17min

Political Ambitions and Financial Controversies in Florida

3min

On this episode of The Chuck ToddCast, Chuck Todd is joined by Marc Caputo, Senior White House Reporter for Axios.

Chuck begins by breaking down how the personnel guardrails that existed during Donald Trump’s first term are now gone—and why a potential second Trump administration would look dramatically different from the first.

He and Marc then explore which Trump official is most likely to take the blame for the administration’s disastrous tariff rollout, and outline three key factors that led Trump to temporarily reverse course with a 90-day delay.

They also explain why Trump can no longer credibly pin economic challenges on President Biden, and why his plan to boost domestic manufacturing may fall short. The conversation turns to Trump’s use of executive orders to target whistleblowers and critics, and who might be managing his so-called “enemies list.”

Finally, they assess which members of Trump’s inner circle are gaining or losing favor with the president, and preview a looming controversy that could shake up the Florida governor’s race.

Timeline:

0:00 Introduction

2:00 Trump 1.0 was NOT a blueprint for Trump 2.0

4:40 This is a brand new style of governing

6:22 Was there insider trading based on Trump’s tweet?

8:28 The market and rich people are serving as a guardrail

10:00 Anti-american sentiment will affect American businesses

11:30 Marc Caputo joins the show

12:55 The “dear leader” quality to the administration

17:37 Howard Lutnick the likely fall guy for tariffs?

18:36 Three factors caused Trump to change course on tariffs

23:07 Trump 1.0 was completely different compared to Trump 2.0

27:50 Does the administration regret that they didn’t pass the tax cut first?

29:22 Trump gave up the ability to blame Biden for the economy

30:00 Manufacturing plants take years to build

31:15 Trump working through an “enemies list”?

35:05 Revenge agenda is a slippery slope

37:00 Is RJK Jr. being reeled in by the White House?

39:56 Trump changes his mind constantly

43:31 What is Elon Musk’s current standing within the administration?

45:46 Is Rubio’s stock rising or falling?

48:09 The administration is using AI to monitor social media feeds

50:30 Scandal looming over the Florida governor’s race

52:55 Chuck’s final thoughts

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