Brutal economic news dumps as White House becomes UFC arena

The David Pakman Show - May 28, 2026

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Conservative media figures are mocking James Talarico over his appearance, relationship, and religion while questioning whether his girlfriend exists. These attacks reveal growing Republican anxiety that Talarico could become a serious statewide challenger to Ken Paxton.

Revised first-quarter GDP growth fell to 1.6%, below expectations and far below the aggressive forecasts promoted for months by officials like Howard Lutnick and Kevin Hassett. Stagnant income growth and persistent inflation concerns are worsening as Trump officials struggle to control the narrative.

Construction crews are tearing apart sections of the White House grounds for Donald Trump’s massive ballroom project, while preparations for a UFC event are happening nearby. The imagery makes the White House look more like a luxury entertainment property centered around Trump’s personal brand than a symbol of American governance and stability.

The Justice Department is examining whether E. Jean Carroll made inaccurate statements about legal funding during prior civil litigation against Donald Trump. Carroll previously won major court judgments after juries found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation.

During a cabinet meeting, Donald Trump appeared tired while discussing aliens and Social Security fraud claims, and joking about grass having a life. Trump’s cabinet meetings are evidence of his disjointed and ineffective leadership style.

Gavin Newsom is responding to Trump’s slush fund for pardoned January 6 defendants by proposing a 100% California tax on the money. Democrats see the issue as politically potent because it forces Republicans to defend payouts tied to people involved in assaults on police officers.

Donald Trump’s approval numbers are worse than those of presidents who dealt with major crises. Economic stress, voter exhaustion, and increasingly strange public appearances are weakening Trump’s long-cultivated image.

Finally, Tom Steyer, businessman, philanthropist, now running for Governor of California, joins us to discuss the campaign.

On today’s bonus show:

Ex-judges want Trump's IRS case reopened, more Americans are going hungry now than during the pandemic, Trump appointees push for a $250 bill with his face on it, and much more....

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