Deep Dive
Why did FBI Director Christopher Wray resign before Trump's inauguration?
Wray resigned to avoid dragging the FBI deeper into political conflict and to reinforce the values of the bureau. However, critics argue his resignation made Trump's appointment of a loyalist, Kash Patel, seem less controversial.
What was the significance of Biden's historic clemency action?
Biden granted clemency to nearly 1,500 people and pardoned 39 others, marking the largest single-day clemency action in modern history. Most of those granted clemency had been in home confinement due to the pandemic.
Why are corporations and Democrats seemingly cozying up to Trump and Elon Musk?
Corporations are aligning with Trump due to his promises of lower taxes and less regulation, while some Democrats are trying to engage with Elon Musk to appeal to young voters and address popular policy issues like government waste.
What did Trump promise about corporate taxes during his speech at the New York Stock Exchange?
Trump promised to cut corporate taxes from 21% to 15%, with a condition that companies invest in America. This would result in a $23 billion tax cut for the largest 10 companies in the U.S.
What did Trump admit about his ability to lower grocery prices?
Trump admitted in his TIME Person of the Year interview that it might be hard to bring grocery prices down once they have risen, despite his campaign promises to lower costs for Americans.
Why did some Democrats criticize the timing of Hunter Biden's pardon?
Critics, including Anita Dunn, argued that the pardon was poorly timed and executed, appearing to undermine the rule of law and Biden's commitment to restoring it, especially during a transition period.
What is the significance of the House bill to ban trans people from using certain bathrooms?
The bill, sponsored by Nancy Mace, is part of a broader Republican effort to restrict trans rights, including access to gender-affirming care. Democrats argue this is a distraction from more pressing issues.
How did Trump explain his victory in the 2024 election?
Trump attributed his victory to his relentless campaign strategy, which he called the '72 Days of Fury,' and claimed that immigration was a bigger factor than the economy in his win. He also suggested the Republican Party had become the party of common sense.
- Biden granted clemency to nearly 1,500 people and pardoned 39 others.
- The pardons mostly went to people convicted of nonviolent drug offenses.
- The hosts discuss the timing of Hunter Biden's pardon and the possibility of preemptive pardons for Trump's enemies list.
Shownotes Transcript