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Here’s what we’re talking about today.
This is a quick rundown of the topics we’ll be covering on today’s show. You can hit play to listen, or read the transcript below if that’s more your style.
Transcript:
Today is Tuesday July 22nd, 2025, and this is your news and preview of today's show.
House Republicans abruptly recessed Congress until September, blocking a bipartisan vote to release sealed Jeffrey Epstein files. The vote had backing from both parties, including Republican Thomas Massie. But after reports that Donald Trump personally pressured lawmakers to kill it, Speaker Mike Johnson shut down legislative business. Trump had previously called on his allies to “release the list,” but is now distancing himself from the effort.
Meanwhile, Trump may walk back his August 1 tariff deadline. When asked if tariffs would still go into effect, adviser Scott Bessent told CNBC, “We’ll see what the president wants to do.” This has raised speculation of another delay, consistent with past policy reversals under market pressure.
Hunter Biden is drawing attention after an interview where he criticized both parties. He said some Democrats profited from his father’s legacy and called out Republicans over immigration, saying, “Who do you think cleans your hotel room?”
Trump’s team is deflecting responsibility for the unreleased Epstein files. Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the White House supports transparency but added, “Ask the FBI.” The FBI and DOJ have since pointed back at each other and the president.
In court, Trump faces new hurdles. His $10 billion libel suit against The Wall Street Journal has been assigned to an Obama appointed judge who previously handled a Trump case involving Michael Cohen.
There’s growing pressure for Ghislaine Maxwell to testify publicly. Attorney Alan Dershowitz, who’s represented both Epstein and Trump, is calling for immunity, saying she “knows everything.” Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking operation.
In response to criticism, the Trump administration has released new documents on Hillary Clinton’s email investigation. The case has already been investigated extensively, with no charges filed. Critics say the release is a distraction from growing demands for Epstein-related transparency.
Nick Maggiulli appears on the show to discuss personal finance and his new book The Wealth Ladder: Proven Strategies for Every Step of Your Financial Life.
On today's bonus show: The White House barred a Wall Street Journal reporter from Trump’s Scotland trip following the paper’s reporting on his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
The administration released previously sealed files on the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., drawing criticism for ignoring growing demands to release Epstein-related records.
And Coca-Cola announced a new Trump-endorsed soda made with cane sugar, part of a broader campaign to boost earnings and align with conservative consumer trends.
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