People are noticing what’s happening in America

The David Pakman Show - March 18, 2026

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Despite Donald Trump claiming inflation is under control, most Americans see a very different reality. Grocery bills and gas prices keep climbing, and voters judge the economy based on what they personally pay, not government reports. That disconnect is creating real political risk heading into the midterm election season.

Pam Bondi and Todd Blanche have been subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee over the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Led by James Comer, this signals intensifying scrutiny on Trump officials. If Democrats take control of Congress, ongoing investigations could put pressure on key figures.

Trump publicly revealed sensitive health information about Congressman Neal Dunn, claiming he had a terminal heart condition and would be dead by June—a private detail that had never been made public. He then shifted focus to luxury projects and spectacle events, like hosting UFC fights at the White House on his birthday.

Trump mistakenly called Gavin Newsom the President of the United States, raising serious questions about his cognitive sharpness and making it harder for supporters to deny that something is clearly wrong with him.

Trump said he could “do whatever he wants” with Cuba, amid a war with Iran, rising gas prices, and a falling stock market. His focus on transgender issues, which polls show aren’t widely prioritized, shows a disconnect from Americans’ real concerns about affordability.

Some wonder if Trump might quit if Republicans suffer heavy losses in November. However, Trump’s narcissism, belief in his own invincibility, and desire to outmaneuver opponents make quitting unlikely.

Even MAGA Republicans like Marjorie Taylor Greene are breaking with Trump. She called the Iran war “unprovoked” and argued it is driving up costs while betraying “America First” promises.

Trump spoke with the Irish prime minister at the White House and reacted poorly when corrected in public, especially by a European leader. He claimed he could unilaterally withdraw from NATO, misunderstood military terms like “incursion,” and criticized wind energy, despite rising gas and electricity prices.

Finally, questions about Trump’s health continue. Footage of his hands turning green and his confusion about who is president are fueling doubts about whether he can handle the demands of office.

On today’s bonus show:

David discusses his trip to Chicago, and much more...

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