The Daily Beast Podcast The Daily Beast Podcast

This Is the Twisted Truth About Trump's New 'Deal'

Sep 1, 2026 · 43m

Summary

Host Anna Coles and guest David Rothkopf critique the Trump administration as a "mafia presidency," arguing that the Venezuela oil deal is an illegal act of theft rather than a diplomatic success. They discuss Trump’s failing poll numbers, the stalled war in Iran, and potential election interference, while also touching on Pete Hegseth’s political ambitions and the Pentagon’s use of influencers to shape public opinion.

Topics discussed

Intro: Trump's 'Mafia Presidency' and host's personal update UK's Russia obsession and Trump's 'Lake America' map change Trump's failed Iran war and Truth Social boasts Sponsor: Superpower health testing Trump's plummeting poll numbers and unpopular policies The Venezuela oil deal: A crime, not a deal Venezuela unrest and similarities between Trump and Putin Superpowers losing to middle powers: Ukraine and Iran Trump's election fears and potential legal accountability Pentagon influencers and Pete Hegseth's potential run Sponsor: Mint Mobile Met Gala cancellation and Starlink Wi-Fi shoutout Outro: Trump's 'work wives' podcast and sign-off
Listen ad-free on Castria