MAGA cancel culture explodes, Trump fails in the UK

The David Pakman Show - September 18, 2025

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ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following a controversial segment in which Kimmel satirized political reactions to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The network’s decision has sparked concerns about censorship and self-censorship, signaling a potential chilling effect on free speech and raising broader questions about media freedom, the First Amendment, and the pressures on broadcasters to avoid politically sensitive content. Donald Trump celebrated the suspension, framing it as a victory and claiming Kimmel has “ZERO talent.”

The Federal Reserve cut the federal funds rate by 25 basis points amid signs of a slowing economy. GDP growth has moderated, consumer spending has weakened, and job gains have slowed. Fed Chair Jerome Powell highlighted that while unemployment remains low, inflation is still somewhat elevated. The cut reflects concerns over economic softness, partly attributed to Trump’s tariff policies.

Former President Barack Obama issued a rare public critique of Donald Trump, framing it as a defense of core American values rather than a partisan attack. Obama emphasized equality, religious freedom, and civic unity as central to the nation, noting that past Republican leaders upheld these ideals. He suggested Trump deviates from the tradition of uniting the country, highlighting concerns over polarization and attacks on the media.

Trump’s trip to the United Kingdom has been chaotic and embarrassing. His speeches have been incoherent, featuring awkward remarks, mispronunciations, and historical inaccuracies. Staff and officials reportedly appeared tense, and Trump’s favorability in the UK is just 23%.

During an appearance in Buckinghamshire, Trump spoke incoherently alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer, making exaggerated economic claims and misrepresenting facts on tariffs, investments, and inflation. He overstated figures, including $17 trillion in investments, and contradicted reality on grocery prices.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt linked Charlie Kirk’s shooting to a Utah earthquake using biblical numerology, an example of apophenia and delusions of reference.

Finally, Jon Favreau of Crooked Media joins us for a Substack Live to discuss the state of the Democratic Party, independent media, and election strategy, emphasizing that internal debates on the left are healthy and necessary for a diverse coalition.

On today’s bonus show:

Donald Trump says he plans to designate Antifa as a terrorist organization. Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had two state terrorism charges dismissed. And House Democrats face a tricky vote on a resolution honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

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