The Trump Report

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Cay Johnston joins Maddie Hale to dive deep into the implications of Trump signing a law to release the Epstein files. Johnston reveals potential legal hurdles that might lead to redactions and discusses the likelihood of the files containing bombshell revelations. He highlights the delicate balance between transparency for victims and reputational harm for those implicated, including Trump. Johnston’s insights on the interplay of politics and justice shed light on the complexities surrounding Epstein’s case and its broader societal impacts.

Bill Browder, a prominent investor and Kremlin critic known for his sanctions advocacy, joins the conversation to dissect Trump's new sanctions bill aimed at crippling Russia's oil revenue. He argues that these steep tariffs could drastically impact Putin's capacity to fund the war. Browder highlights the increasing tax burdens on everyday Russians while the elite remain protected. The discussion reveals why economic pressure is crucial in negotiations, as he warns that Russia's summit overtures are mere stalling tactics.

Journalist Will Sommer from The Bulwark dives into the escalating political fallout from the Epstein files. He discusses the potential unanimous House vote to release these documents, clarifying the surprising Republican shift in stance, ostensibly guided by Trump’s influence. Sommer highlights Trump’s viral 'quiet piggy' remark and its implications for a possible cover-up. The pair also explore the political dangers for both parties if names from Epstein’s connections come to light, particularly noting the blurred lines between protecting the wealthy and accountability.

Carla Sands, former US ambassador to Denmark and chair of the Foreign Policy Initiative at the America First Policy Institute, discusses whether the Epstein files will be released. She argues the story distracts from pressing domestic issues and claims Trump's involvement is a media fabrication. Carla expresses skepticism about the files changing public sentiment and raises concerns about powerful figures obscured by national security. She also defends conservatives against leftist violence rhetoric and predicts a favorable legal outcome for Trump against the BBC.

Professor Scott Lucas, an expert in U.S. politics from the Clinton Institute, joins to dissect Donald Trump's surprising support for releasing Epstein files. They discuss the political maneuvering behind this decision and the implications of a possible smokescreen amid ongoing DOJ probes. Lucas highlights key emails that may expose Trump’s connections to Epstein and assesses the significance of witness testimony in the released case files. Ultimately, he argues that Trump appears to be backed into a corner with limited options.

Charlie Sykes, an influential conservative commentator and author, dives into the implications of recent Epstein emails linking him to Donald Trump. He explores whether these revelations could suggest blackmail and their potential political fallout. With predictions that dozens of Republicans may defy Trump to push for the release of Epstein files, Sykes highlights the growing tensions within the party. He also critiques how right-wing commentators are framing the situation, marking it as a pivotal moment for both Trump and GOP dynamics.

Josh Hammer, a conservative commentator and host of The Josh Hammer Show, dives into the recent release of the Epstein files. He argues the timing was politically motivated, aimed at shifting narratives amid Democratic strife. Hammer dismisses claims of a smoking gun against Trump, noting the released emails reveal minimal connections. He critiques the Trump administration's handling of the situation as demoralizing and highlights the mixed public sentiment surrounding the recent government shutdown negotiations and its impact on approval ratings.

White House reporter for Real Clear Politics Philip Wegmann joins Times Radio’s Maddie Hale to discuss old emails of Jeffrey Epstein being published which seems him offer a reporter “photos of Donald and girls in bikinis in my kitchen”, whether the White House is in panic mode and if the emails paint author Michael Wolff in a way that rids him of any credibility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Scott Lucas joins Times Radio’s Maddie Hale to discuss old emails released by House Democrats which show conversations between Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Michael Wolff where Donald Trump’s name is mentioned in three separate emails, with one claiming the president spent “hours” with a victim. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Bill Browder joins Times Radio’s Maddie Hale to discuss Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's meeting with Donald Trump, why the US President said there’s still a “good chance” he will meet Vladimir Putin despite Russia failing to make any concessions and how much of an impact the UK/US’ sanctions have had on Russia’s two biggest oil companies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.