This daily news preview is available to free subscribers thanks to the support of our Substack paid members. Thank you to all subscribers for reading, listening to, and watching our work, which in total generates 150 million views/listens per month.
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 26, 2025, and this is your news and preview of today's show.
The Trump administration announced the government has bought a 10% stake in Intel, which lost nearly $19 billion last year. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick called the deal “fair,” while Trump said Intel’s CEO offered shares to save his job. The $10 billion stake equals Intel’s CHIPS Act subsidies. Analysts warn it signals partial nationalization. Investors say the move brings new political risks as Washington gains influence in private companies.
Concerns about Trump’s health grew after photos showed bruising on both hands during a meeting with South Korea’s president, with similar marks seen earlier this year. The White House blamed handshakes and aspirin use, but recurring symptoms and Trump’s history of secrecy have fueled speculation.
Trump also announced he was firing Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, though she refuses to resign, citing laws that allow removal only “for cause.” The White House cited unproven mortgage allegations, but Cook says no grounds exist. The standoff could spark a legal battle over Fed independence, as Trump continues pressing for lower interest rates.
In the Oval Office, Trump declared, “I love Black people,” drawing skepticism given his history of racially charged remarks, from birtherism to comments on African nations. Observers say the line was aimed at minority voters as polls show him struggling with younger demographics.
Trump also confused audiences by calling himself the “President of Europe,” a title that does not exist. In the same speech, he dismissed renewable energy, referenced WWII-era “comfort women,” claimed drug prices could fall by “1,400 to 1,500 percent,” and suggested deploying the National Guard to high-crime areas, including red states.
Finally, Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor, joins me for a Substack Live to discuss the dangers of the Trump presidency.
On the Bonus Show today:
The New York City mayor's race turns into a bench press contest.
Trump's DC occupation costs four times what housing the homeless would.
And Gavin Newsom trolls Trump by copying his merchandise.
Don't miss the full show with these stories and others, plus all of our analysis. Tune in at 2:30 pm eastern on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or catch the video show at 6:00 pm eastern on YouTube. Consider becoming a paid Substack supporter to support extras like these news episodes. Thank you.
Share this post