The Warning with Steve Schmidt Steve Schmidt: How Trump's Corruption Costs Americans
Dec 24, 2025
Steve Schmidt exposes the deep corruption within the media orchestrated by Trump, revealing how trust has been decimated. He discusses the controversial CBS-60 Minutes incident and its implications for journalistic integrity. Schmidt highlights the commitment of journalists like Sharyn Alfonsi, who bravely challenge misinformation. He critiques prominent media figures complicit in the pro-Trump narrative and argues that the consequences of media capitulation are now unfolding. American democracy faces a crucial moment as it grapples with these challenges.
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Erosion Of Trust Enables Authoritarian Gain
- Steve Schmidt argues Trump's attacks have destroyed public trust in media and institutions.
- He frames the CBS/60 Minutes episode and its settlement as emblematic of systemic corruption that weakens democracy.
Access Journalism Compromises Truth
- Schmidt distinguishes true journalism from access-driven media and claims many outlets capitulated to Trump.
- He says this capitulation made it impossible for the public to know truth and accountability suffered.
CBS Sale And The Trump Settlement
- Schmidt recounts the takeover of CBS News by David Ellison and a payoff involving Shari Redstone to settle Trump's lawsuit.
- He presents the sale and settlement as a corrupt chain that compromised journalistic independence.