American oligarchy takes hold, final show before Trump's return
The David Pakman Show - January 17, 2025
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American oligarchy is officially here
Donald Trump's second term is expected to deepen corruption, with billionaires not just influencing the government but becoming it. His administration combines a plutocracy that glorifies wealth, a kleptocracy looting public resources, and an autocracy run by unqualified individuals. To combat this, it’s essential to expose, organize, and resist this gilded kleptocracy.
Bernie POUNDS Trump nominee, then his phone rings
Senator Bernie Sanders questioned Trump’s EPA nominee, Lee Zeldin, who acknowledged climate change is real but avoided addressing whether human activity worsens it or its harmful effects. This reflects a common MAGA strategy of admitting climate change exists while denying the need for action. Though Zeldin is more competent than other Trump nominees, his stance still downplays the urgency of climate policy.
From yesterday’s show:
BREAKING: Israel ceasefire, Hamas promises hostage release
The Biden administration announced a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, halting fighting in Gaza for 42 days. Hamas will release 33 hostages, and Israel will free Palestinian prisoners while aid flows and displaced Palestinians return. The deal’s success depends on future negotiations over Gaza’s governance, with risks of collapse if hostages’ statuses are disputed.
From yesterday’s show:
America's adversaries LOVING the return of Trump
Donald Trump's upcoming second term alarms U.S. allies like the U.K. and South Korea, fearing instability and weakened alliances, while authoritarian regimes like Russia and China welcome it. Promises to resolve conflicts, like the Russia-Ukraine war, clash with Trump's history of chaos and division. His leadership risks isolating the U.S. and empowering authoritarian regimes.
More on the show:
-- Sam Harris describes his falling out with Elon Musk
-- Donald Trump is sitting on a disturbing mountain of cash from corporations and wealthy donors
-- JD Vance appears on Fox News Sunday and proves he doesn't understand economic policy
-- A Fox News graphic mistakenly calls Melania Trump the "Second Lady"
-- The Friday Feedback segment
-- On the Bonus Show: Mortgage rates not coming down, Americans don't think Trump will lower prices, and much more...
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