The Majority Report with Sam Seder 3610 - Trump Flirts With A Third Term; What Democratic Leadership Is Missing w/ Astead Herndon
Oct 24, 2025
In this discussion, journalist Astead Herndon—previously with the New York Times—offers insights on the recent Knesset vote for West Bank annexation and JD Vance's perplexed reaction. He highlights Democratic Party issues, particularly its failure to engage youth and address cost-of-living concerns, boosting Trump's appeal. Astead breaks down Zoran Mamdani’s coalition-building tactics and critiques party leadership's internal democracy problems. The conversation wraps with thoughts on Trump's power dynamics and the implications for future elections.
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Corporate Donors Fund Trump's Ballroom
- Trump solicited major corporate donations to fund White House ballroom renovations, contradicting his claim he paid personally.
- Emma and Astead highlight Palantir, Amazon, Google, Lockheed Martin among reported donors fueling cronyism concerns.
Symbolic Vote Masks Ongoing Annexation
- Israel advanced a symbolic Knesset vote to annex the West Bank that signals formalization rather than a new policy.
- Emma argues the vote is a formality that underscores ongoing occupation and settler expansion.
JD Vance's Tarmac Compliment
- JD Vance reacted to the Knesset annexation vote while visiting Israel, calling it "weird."
- Astead recounts hearing a Trump administration official call it a symbolic political stunt during Vance's trip.