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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, August 19, 2025, and this is your news and preview of today's show.
President Trump is reversing course on his Ukraine policy after meeting with Vladimir Putin. Just days after calling for a ceasefire, Trump abandoned that position and instead pushed for a direct peace deal requiring Ukraine to give up unconquered land in the Donbas region. The move is strongly opposed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European allies. Trump praised his talks with Putin, describing them as “a 10,” while pressing Ukraine to “get it done.”
During a meeting with President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, Trump dismissed the need for ceasefires altogether, saying none of his recent international deals included one. Fox News’ Peter Doocy asked Zelenskyy whether he would “keep sending troops to their deaths or agree to redraw maps.”
At a joint event that included Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Trump appeared confused while attempting an introduction. He asked, “where are we here?” as Stubb sat a few feet away.
Back at home, the economy is showing strain. Wholesale vegetable prices surged nearly 40 percent in July, the sharpest increase for any product category in years. While retail grocery prices have not yet risen, economists warn consumers could see double-digit increases if wholesale costs remain high. Factors include tariffs on imported produce, extreme weather affecting harvests, and labor shortages linked to immigration enforcement.
In Washington, D.C., Trump’s federal takeover of local police is already affecting the city’s economy. Restaurant reservations fell more than 25 percent in the days after his announcement, a sharp contrast to expectations for strong sales during Restaurant Week.
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom is rising in early polling for the 2028 Democratic primary. A new survey shows his support has tripled to 13 percent, putting him in second place behind former Vice President Kamala Harris.
At the same time, Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik was booed off stage twice at an event in her New York district. Video shows crowds loudly jeering as she attempted to deliver remarks, forcing her to cut them short.
On the Bonus Show today:
Texas Democrats monitored by law enforcement after returning to the state.
Trump vows to end mail-in voting.
And Sherrod Brown launches a bid for U.S. Senate in Ohio.
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