Taking Down Trump

The Road Ahead (with Maya Wiley) Nov 13, 2024

One week post election, we’re fired up and ready for the new challenges ahead. We’ll talk about the nomination process for Trump’s cabinet positions, legal strategies to oppose extreme MAGA policies using the Administrative Procedures Act and the real economic dangers of Trump’s tariffs.

Later, Maya Wiley, civil rights attorney, former candidate for NYC Mayor and author of the memoir “Remember You Are A Wiley” joins to discuss strategies for protecting democracy. Wiley breaks down the threats outlined in Project 2025, including attacks on civil service and overtime pay, while emphasizing the importance of focusing on shared American values and needs across political lines. The conversation explores how litigation, state ballot initiatives, and local politics can be used to defend democracy.

Don't Give Up: The Resistance Starts Now! Nov 07, 2024

In the aftermath of the election day nightmare, Tristan looks at the missed opportunities to prosecute Trump after the January 6th attemped coup, and the media's role in his ultimate resurgence. He also laments the Democratic party's dated approach to mainstream economic policy, and emphasizes the need for bold actions moving forward - all while urging us to stay deeply engaged in the long fight (to preserve our democracy) that lies directly ahead.

Economic Wrecking Ball - Tax Cuts, Privatization, and the Death of Financial Oversight Nov 04, 2024

On the eve of Election Day, this final installment of our Decoding Project 2025 series delves deep into MAGA’s radical economic proposals, including massive tax cuts for the wealthy, the elimination of SALT deductions, and plans to defund or privatize critical financial institutions. We‘ll discuss how the proposed gutting of agencies like the IRS, Federal Reserve, and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau would benefit a small circle of ultra-wealthy individuals while potentially devastating the American economy. Spoiler alert: These policies would disproportionately harm middle-class Americans and residents of blue states while enriching a select group of billionaires.

The Homestretch Oct 31, 2024

Dive into the latest election developments as we analyze Trump's controversial Madison Square Garden rally and its impact on Latino voters. Learn how the "floating garbage" comments about Puerto Rico could reshape battleground states like Florida and Pennsylvania. Plus, discover surprising poll numbers from Kansas that might signal a broader shift in the electoral map. We'll break down Kamala Harris's game-changing Medicare home care proposal and what it means for American families, while examining the truth behind inflation numbers and tax policies. Get an insider's perspective on early voting records in Michigan and the potential "quiet majority" that could determine the election's outcome.

Trump’s Economic Plans Exposed: Tariffs, Taxes, and Trouble? Oct 29, 2024

In this eye-opening episode, we’re breaking down what Project 2025 could mean for your wallet. We’ll tackle tariffs, the shrinking middle class and we’ll uncover some of Project 2025’s shocking proposals, including dismantling the Patent Office (say what?), privatizing government services (hello, oligarchs?), and census shenanigans that could impact your representation. Don’t miss this crucial installment of “Decoding Project 2025.” It’s your guide to understanding Trump’s economic vision before you hit the polls.

Heroes For Democracy Oct 24, 2024

Heroes for Democracy Super Show

If you missed Tuesday night's LIVE super show on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and Instagram, we’ve got you covered.

Hosts, Tristan Snell, JoJo from Jerz and Brooklyn Dad Defiant are joined by an army of guests to rally support for Kamala and raise funds to power key Democratic candidates and pro-democracy initiatives. The event features a series of special guests, beginning with Stephanie Miller, Olivia Julianna, Lauren Windsor, Anthony Scaramucci, Ty Ross & D.Knight, Allison Gill, Brian Tyler Cohen, Glenn Kirschner & Martina Navratilova. Donate at: actblue.com/donate/h4d

Gutting Labor Rights and Transportation Safety Oct 21, 2024

In this installment of Decoding Project 2025, we uncover MAGA’s alarming plans to dismantle labor protections, civil rights laws, and transportation safety measures. From eliminating overtime pay to gutting anti-discrimination policies and rail safety regulations, we’ll take a look at how Project 2025 threatens workers' rights and public safety. Spoiler alert! It also reveals plans to cut veterans' benefits and increase political cronyism at the VA. Don't miss this crucial analysis of how a future Trump presidency could reshape labor laws and transportation policy to favor corporations at the expense of American workers and consumers.

Georgia's Election Showdown: Early Voting Surge and Trump's Legal Battles Oct 17, 2024

In this explosive episode, we dive deep into the latest developments in Georgia's crucial election landscape. Discover how record-breaking early voters are reshaping the political playing field, and uncover the shocking legal maneuvers Trump allies may attempt to manipulate the voting process. We break down the high-stakes battle for democracy, plus Tristan’s perspective on Trump's bizarre 30-minute musical interlude at a recent rally and what it reveals about media bias. Don't miss this essential analysis of the forces shaping America's political future!

Democracy Under Siege: Foreign Influence, Voter Suppression, and the Fight for America's Future w/Andrea Chalupa Oct 09, 2024

Tristan is joined by the formidable Andrea Chalupa, host of the hard-hitting Gaslit Nation podcast. They're peeling back the layers on America's democracy crisis faster than Putin can say "fake news." From Kremlin-backed MAGA influencers to Georgia's neo-confederate voter suppression schemes, they draw chilling parallels between today's threats and history's darkest chapters, all while serving up a masterclass on why enforcing those dusty old laws might just save the republic. Sprinkle in a DOJ critique, and a hefty dose of "let's actually do something about this," and you've got yourself an episode that'll leave you fired up and ready to defend democracy – or at least seriously considering a panic room.

Rep. Jamie Raskin on Trump's Threats and America's Future Oct 03, 2024

We sit down with Congressman Jamie Raskin for a deep dive into the strategies being employed to combat election subversion and "big lie" propaganda. Later he talks about his work with the January 6th Committee and delivers a passionate call to action for citizens to engage in the democratic process.

Justice Under Siege: Project 2025's Scary DOJ Makeover Oct 01, 2024

Buckle up, folks! In this jaw-dropping episode of Decoding Project 2025,

Tristan breaks down the MAGA playbook for turning the DOJ into Trump's personal legal playground. If you thought the DOJ was already in hot water, Project 2025 wants to crank up the heat to 11. Tristan lays out why this matters to all of us who give a damn about democracy and equal justice.

America's Extreme Makeover (MAGA Edition) Sep 26, 2024

It’s part 8 of our Project 2025 series and we’re exposing the MAGA “GRWM” makeover that would make even Trump's hair look understated.

From dismantling government agencies faster than a toddler with a Lego set, to treating federal employees like seasonal retail workers, Project 2025 has it all. We'll dive into the nitty-gritty of "Schedule F" - because nothing says efficiency like turning government employment into a game of musical chairs. Join us as we navigate this rollercoaster of proposed changes, where democracy gets a facelift and civil liberties go on a crash diet.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett on Congress, Campaigning, and Her Unexpected Journey to Politics Sep 24, 2024

Tristan is joined by Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas, who shares her unique path from aspiring anesthesiologist to rising Democratic star in Congress. Rep. Crockett offers insights on current legislative battles, including government funding and the farm bill, while also reflecting on her role as national co-chair for the Harris-Walls campaign. This episode provides an inside look at the challenges facing Congress and the personal story of a dynamic new voice in American politics.

Progressive Patriotism (with Rep. Ro Khanna) Sep 19, 2024

In this episode, we discuss the fallout following false claims spread by JD Vance and Donald Trump about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, OH and the historical context of xenophobia in America. Later, Representative Ro Khanna joins the show to provide insights from Capitol Hill and discuss the urgent need to counteract these divisive narratives.

Prescription for Chaos in Healthcare Sep 17, 2024

From dismantling healthcare as we know it to rolling back civil rights, Project 2025 reads like a dystopian novel—only it's terrifyingly real. We'll dissect the absurdities of these proposals, including pregnancy surveillance and the attack on Medicare.

Fact Checked & Flummoxed Sep 11, 2024

In this post-debate episode, we’ll talk debate strategy and how Kamala Harris masterfully baited Trump into a frenzy of fact-checkable falsehoods and unhinged outbursts from his weird pet-eating paranoia to his Charlottesville revisionism.

Gutting Education and Energy: Project 2025 Radical Plans Exposed Sep 03, 2024

In this 6th installment of "Decoding Project 2025," we delve deep into their alarming plans for the Departments of Education and Energy including: dismantling school accreditation, eliminating support for underprivileged students, repealing crucial climate change legislation and stifling renewable energy progress…and so much more!

Sound the Alarm on Supreme Court Shenanigans (w/ Senator Whitehouse) Aug 29, 2024

This week on Taking Down Trump, Tristan reflects on his time at the Democratic National Convention, Trump's eyebrow-raising gala for January 6th "guests," and the former president's apparent foray into unauthorized Middle East diplomacy.

He’s joined for a conversation with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who pulls back the curtain on Supreme Court corruption. They discuss billionaire influence, ethical gymnastics by certain justices, and potential fixes like term limits and an actual ethics code (gasp!).

Trump University: The Art of the Grift Aug 23, 2024

In this week's episode, fresh off the DNC, Tristan Snell breaks down the Trump University scandal. As a prosecutor who led the New York Attorney General's Trump University investigation, Tristan gives us an insider's look at how he brought down one of Trump's most notorious scams, interviewing hundreds of victims and ultimately securing a $25 million settlement. We dive into how the Trump turned his biggest fans into unwitting cash cows, and what it tells us about his political playbook. Grab your MAGA hats and your BS detectors, folks – it's time to go back to school, Trump University style.

How Project 2025 Wants to "Starve America" Aug 21, 2024

It’s Part 5 of our Decoding Project 2025 series and we’re diving headfirst into its assault on America's farmers, food supply, and public health.

From slashing aid for struggling farmers and gutting critical SNAP programs that feed hungry families, the real kicker is the elimination of food safety regulations, allowing their corporate cronies to peddle tainted meat and toxic baby formula - because who needs a healthy next generation when there's a buck to be made?

It’s a dystopian vision, where children starve, the environment is ravaged, and the only ones who feast are Trump's gluttonous backers.

Project 2025 Foreign Policy: "America Last" Aug 15, 2024

In this eye-opening 4th installment of "Decoding Project 2025," Tristan Snell dissects the alarming foreign policy proposals in Donald Trump's blueprint for a second term. From gutting the State Department to abandoning NATO, Snell exposes how Project 2025 would cripple American diplomacy and embolden adversaries like Russia and China. Learn about plans to end aid to Ukraine, betray the Kurds, and slash support for Africa. Snell also reveals the document's hypocritical stance on classified information leaks and its potential economic impact on Virginia. Don't miss this crucial analysis of how Trump's isolationist "America First" policy could lead to "America Last" on the global stage.

MAGA's Master Plan: DHS & Secret Service-Part 3 Aug 12, 2024

In Part 3 of this Decoding Project 2025 series, Tristan delves deep into Donald Trump's blueprint for a second presidency, focusing on the proposed changes to the Department of Homeland Security. He examines Ken Cuccinelli's plans, which include mass deportations, violating due process, and denaturalizations. Tristan also highlights the contradictions in Trump's stance on border security and immigration, the potential gutting of the Secret Service, and the alarming proposals to defy court decisions.

A Very Dangerous Couch Creep Aug 08, 2024

Tristan Snell unpacks the latest from the campaign trail from Tim Walz's VP nod to Trump's desperate rants. But the real kicker? J.D. Vance's not-so-subtle flirtation with authoritarianism. Snell breaks down how this Yale Law grad went from Trump critic to MAGA puppet, peddling dangerous ideas about voting rights and the end of the American republic. Is Vance just weird, or is he the most extreme candidate in America’s history? Tristan exposes the threats to democracy hiding behind Vance’s nerdy political jargon. Keep the couch jokes coming.

MAGA’S Master Plan - The Threat to National Security Aug 01, 2024

In this second episode of Taking Down Trump's special series, Tristan Snell exposes the details behind the dangerous Project 2025 blueprint for dismantling the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and privatizing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Actions which would create immense risks to national security and the safety of millions of Americans. The deep dive focuses on the section written by former Trump administration DHS Deputy Secretary Ken Cuccinelli, which lays out a plan to effectively create an immigration Gestapo, potentially herding millions of men, women, and children into tent-based prison camps.

Weird, Weirder, Weirdest: Trump's Faux Diplomacy Fiasco Jul 31, 2024

In this episode of "Taking Down Trump," host Tristan Snell delves into Donald Trump's recent meetings with foreign leaders and explores the potential legal implications under the rarely-invoked Logan Act. The episode also features YouTube legal and political commentator Leeja Miller, who discusses J.D. Vance, Peter Thiel's influence, and Project 2025. Together they examine Biden’s proposed Supreme Court reform and their feasibility.

MAGA’S Master Plan: Decoding Project 2025 Jul 25, 2024

In this first part of our bonus episode, we begin a deep dive into Project 2025, the controversial blueprint for a potential second Trump administration. We’ll expose alarming plans to dismantle the civil service system, politicize government agencies, and reshape the military. From gutting worker protections to imposing extreme ideological tests, we analyze the far-reaching implications of Project 2025 for American democracy and institutions. Join us for the first installment of this critical examination of Trump's vision for reshaping the federal government.

It's Kamala Time: The Prosecutor Takes On The Felon Jul 24, 2024

Buckle up, folks! In this whirlwind episode, Tristan analyzes the dramatic shift in the 2024 presidential race following Biden's withdrawal and Kamala Harris's rapid ascension to Democratic nominee. We examine how Harris's background as a prosecutor could be a game-changer against Donald Trump and we apply lessons from Tristan’s book Taking Down Trump to Harris's campaign. Tristan also discusses the implications for key issues like police reform, reproductive rights, and election integrity.

Hillbilly Elegy to MAGA Melody: J.D. Vance's Sellout Tour Jul 17, 2024

In this episode Tristan unpacks the bizarre reality of J.D. Vance as Trump's VP pick. From Silicon Valley cash to extremist trash, we'll explore how this Hillbilly Elegy author became MAGA's newest darling. Discover the Thiel-Musk money trail, Vance's greatest hits of misogyny, and his apparent allergy to democracy. We’ll also cover recent political developments, including the tragic events in Pennsylvania this past weekend and Judge Cannon's dismissal of classified documents charges against Trump.

Spilling Trump's Tea (w/ Michael Cohen) Jul 10, 2024

Michael Cohen joins the show to give insider perspective on the trial, his star witness testimony, and what Trump's guilty verdict means for the 2024 race. Plus, Cohen serves up some spicy advice for Joe Biden's debate prep and explains why Project 2025 should terrify every democracy-loving American. We'll also dissect the media's age obsession and why recent European elections might give Democrats hope.

SCOTUS Shockwaves (w/ Dahlia Lithwick) Jul 03, 2024

Join us for a deep dive into the Supreme Court's recent bombshell decisions, including the reversal of the Chevron doctrine and its implications for federal agencies. Then, Tristan explores the potential silver lining in the Trump immunity case and how it might impact the 2024 election. Joined by Supreme Court expert Dahlia Lithwick, together they discuss the court's increasing extremism, corruption concerns, and potential checks on judicial power.

Yet Another Trump Grift (w/ Jojo from Jerz) Jun 26, 2024

Tristan and guest Jojo from Jerz analyze the never ending corruption in “Trumpland” plus the Supreme Court's lack of accountability, and the importance of maintaining perspective on the unprecedented nature of current political events.

The Trumpian Hypocrisy (w/ Stephanie Miller) Jun 19, 2024

Tristan delves into the blatant hypocrisy surrounding Donald Trump and the conservative establishment. Is Trump in violation of the same federal gun law that led to Hunter Biden's conviction? Joined by the inimitable Stephanie Miller, the two dissect the erosion of democratic norms, the cowardice of Republicans, and the urgent need for citizens to rally at the ballot box to preserve the nation's values.

The Downfall of Trump's Cronies ( w/ Rick Wilson) Jun 12, 2024

Tristan examines the alarming extremism taking root in the Supreme Court. Later, Rick Wilson joins for a dive into the crumbling world of Trump allies.

Justice Served and Accountability Prevails (w/Allison Gill) Jun 06, 2024

In this episode, Tristan breaks down the historic conviction of former President Donald Trump on 34 felony counts. Guest Allison Gill of Mueller, She Wrote, The Daily Beans and JACK podcasts joins to analyze the trial strategy, potential appeals, and what's next for Trump.

Trump's Defense Stumbles as Verdict Nears (w/ Glenn Kirschner) May 29, 2024

As the jury begins deliberations, Tristan dissects the missteps and missed opportunities by Trump's legal team. Tristan is joined by former federal prosecutor, Glenn Kirshner to discuss the defense team's stumbling efforts in closing arguments and throughout the trial.

This is Taking Down Trump with Tristan Snell May 23, 2024

TAKING DOWN TRUMP is a book, a Substack, and now – a podcast.

In just 30 minutes a week, we’ll give you an indispensable go-to pod on Trump’s trials and other top stories impacting law and democracy – with a weekly news roundup, a deeper dive on a topic you need to know about, and special guests. Follow now and join us for new episodes every Wednesday.

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