The Next Level 1033: Incentives Matter | Secret Podcast Preview
Nov 15, 2025
Catherine Rampell, an insightful opinion writer for The Bulwark, fills in to discuss the latest political chaos surrounding recent Epstein revelations. She and JVL dig deep into how the GOP is grappling with internal contradictions and ongoing scandals. They examine the reputational fallout for figures like Larry Summers linked to Epstein, and ponder Trump's plausible deniability about his interactions. The conversation also touches on the muted media responses to Epstein's crimes and speculates on who might break away from Trump, all while weighing political incentives.
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Butterfly Ballot Memory
- Catherine Rampell recounts interviewing Teresa Lepore, the Palm Beach County elections official tied to the 2000 butterfly ballot controversy.
- She uses the oversized 2000-era shirt as a personal memento and anecdote about Florida election chaos.
2000 Recount Shaped Modern Politics
- Jonathan V. Last argues the 2000 Florida recount materially shaped later political developments, including the Bush presidency.
- He suggests prolonged, contested elections have long-term institutional and political consequences.
Epstein Proximity Tarnishes Careers
- Rampell and Last note many prominent figures had ties to Jeffrey Epstein, which is politically and morally damaging.
- They emphasize proximity to Epstein now reads as deeply problematic given his crimes and prior convictions.