Mea Culpa

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by my good friend Lev Parnas, a Soviet-born businessman and former associate of Rudy Giuliani who, like me, is determined to speak out against Trump and warn of the threat he poses to our country. With only one day until the election, we expose Trump’s tactics and cover the Republican Party’s reliance on conspiracies, the dangers of billionaire apathy, and the potential consequences for democracy if Trump wins in 2024. We delve into Trump’s authoritarian approach, from his violent, divisive rhetoric aimed at opponents like Liz Cheney and General Mark Milley to his cult-like influence, especially over young followers. Lev draws connections between Trump’s behavior and that of historical authoritarian figures, stressing the urgency of safeguarding our democracy. Thanks to our sponsors: Tommy John: Save 25% on your first order when you go to https://TommyJohn.com/COHEN Lumen: Take the next step in improving your health, go to https://lumen.me/COHEN to get 15% off your Lumen. Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me and Harry Litman on today’s episode of Mea Culpa. Litman, a former U.S. Attorney, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, law professor, and legal commentator, is also the creator and host of the Talking Feds podcast. We dive into Trump’s authoritarian tactics, his divisive rhetoric, and how these influence public opinion leading up to the election. Litman highlights Trump’s appeal to the religious right and his strategy of framing the election as a loyalty test for groups like Jews and evangelicals. Together, we examine Trump’s use of dehumanizing language, conspiracy theories, and inflammatory remarks on mass deportations to mobilize his base. With only five days until the election, we discuss the risks of potential violence and emphasize the critical importance of strong voter turnout to protect democratic values. Thanks to our sponsors: Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! ZBiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/MEACULPA to get 15% off any ZBiotics probiotic when you use code: MEACULPA at checkout. Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian, educator, and commentator who specializes in fascism, authoritarianism, propaganda, and the defense of democracy—topics that are, unfortunately, central to this presidential election. Ruth draws striking parallels between Trump and other authoritarian leaders, explaining how his increasingly erratic and offensive statements reflect a desperation to maintain influence. She highlights Trump’s use of dehumanizing language, misinformation, and divisive narratives to build a personality cult and deflect from his own failings. Ruth warns that Trump’s polarizing 'us vs. them' rhetoric poses a serious threat to democracy, especially to younger generations who are becoming desensitized to rising political violence and intolerance. Thanks to our sponsors: ZBiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/MEACULPA to get 15% off any ZBiotics probiotic when you use code: MEACULPA at checkout. HumanN: Give your cholesterol health advanced support with a free month’s supply of SuperBerine™ plus 15% off. Go to https://superberine.com and enter promo code COHEN. Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Joe Trippi, American political Democratic strategist, senior advisor at The Lincoln Project, the host of That Trippi Show podcast, and the founder of https://sez.us - a pro-democracy social network. We discuss the upcoming election, focusing on Trump’s erratic rallies, which only appeal to his MAGA base and fail to grow his support. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’s policy-driven rallies are energizing key groups like suburban women and young voters. We also cover Trump’s voter suppression tactics, disinformation, and skewed polling aimed at claiming an early victory on election night. Trippi highlights the importance of mobilizing voters, especially in battleground states, to defeat Trumpism and protect democracy. Thanks to our sponsors: Simplisafe: Go to https://SIMPLISAFE.com/meaculpa to protect your home with 50% off any new SimpliSafe system when you sign up for Fast Protect Monitoring, plus a FREE Indoor security camera. ZBiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/MEACULPA to get 15% off any ZBiotics probiotic when you use code: MEACULPA at checkout. Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Tom Carle, who’s running for Congress in New York’s 23rd District. Carle is focused on integrity and stewardship, viewing this election as one of the most important of our lifetime. He aims to protect his constituents from Donald Trump, who has endorsed his opponent, current congressman Nick Langworthy, who is known for prioritizing party loyalty over district needs. Carle outlines his plans to revitalize rural communities through economic development, job creation, and support for small farms. We also tackle key issues like healthcare access, the opioid crisis, and sensible gun legislation, while highlighting the broader impact of economic inequality and rural infrastructure neglect. Thanks to our sponsors: Lumen: Take the next step in improving your health, go to https://lumen.me/COHEN to get 15% off your Lumen. Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Grant Stern—author, journalist, radio host, and Executive Director of Occupy Democrats, a leading social media outlet for Democratic news. With the election less than three weeks away, we dive into Trump’s eroding support among key demographics, especially women, and the inconsistencies in public polling. We also contrast VP Kamala Harris’s energizing rallies with Trump’s lackluster events, where attendees leave mid-speech. Grant further highlights Trump’s lack of transparency, including his refusal to release medical records, and breaks down the numerous legal battles he faces. Finally, we discuss the upcoming grassroots effort, Disrupt Project 2025, aimed at mobilizing Gen Z voters to stand against Trump’s agenda. Thanks to our sponsors: Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Hims: Start your free online visit today at https://Hims.com/COHEN for your personalized ED treatment options Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by an exciting guest - journalist and screenwriter Gabriel Sherman. His new film The Apprentice, released on Friday, examines Donald Trump’s rise and his relationship with mentor Roy Cohn. I had the privilege of attending the premiere and wanted to unpack the film with Gabriel. We explore how Roy Cohn’s ruthless strategies shaped Trump’s approach to business and politics, and how his overambitious deals led to financial disaster. Gabriel also reveals Trump’s shocking abandonment of Cohn and the media’s role in building Trump’s public image, which eventually fueled his political ascent. Plus, we discuss scenes in the movie that are eerily similar to my own experiences - you don’t want to miss this episode! Thanks to our sponsors: Hims: Start your FREE online visit today at https://Hims.com/COHEN. Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Maria Cardona, a Colombian-American political strategist and Principal at the Dewey Square Group. With the election less than a month away, we dive into the challenges facing VP Kamala Harris's campaign as it aims to connect with key demographics like Latino voters. Maria emphasizes the urgency of countering Trump’s divisive rhetoric, particularly its harmful impact on immigrant communities, and the dangers of his policies like mass deportation. We also cover pressing issues like voter suppression, reproductive rights, and climate change, highlighting how the Biden-Harris administration is addressing these critical concerns. Thanks to our sponsors: ZBiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/MEACULPA to get 15% off any ZBiotics probiotic when you use code: MEACULPA at checkout. Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining me today on Mea Culpa is David Corn, Washington, DC bureau chief of Mother Jones and a New York Times bestselling author. His latest book, “American Psychosis: A Historical Investigation of How the Republican Party Went Crazy,” is essential for understanding the current state of our republic. David and I explore the chaos surrounding Donald Trump, discussing Jack Smith's recent filings in Trump's DC case and their potential impact on the upcoming election. We delve into Trump's narcissism, detachment from voter concerns, and the shift in attitudes among key demographics like veterans and suburban women. We also address Trump's bizarre statements and their implications for serious policy issues. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of American democracy and the 2024 election. Thanks to our sponsors: Tommy John: Save 25% on your first order when you go to https://TommyJohn.com/COHEN Lumen: Take the next step in improving your health, go to https://lumen.me/COHEN to get 15% off your Lumen. Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I am joined by Malcolm Nance, a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief, New York Times bestselling author, and expert on terrorism, extremism, and insurgency. We discuss global and domestic political issues, with a focus on Middle East conflicts and U.S. foreign policy. Nance explains Iran's long-term strategy to become a regional superpower and its use of proxies to influence Israel and Saudi Arabia. We also critique Trump’s isolationist stance, warning that it could weaken U.S. democracy and global alliances like NATO. Nance emphasizes the need for full support of Ukraine in its fight against Russia and warns of potential domestic insurgency if Trump regains power. Thanks to our sponsor: Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining me today is my Meidas colleague, Ron Filipkowski, the editor-in-chief of MeidasTouch.com and co-host of “Uncovered.” A former Republican, Ron brings valuable experience as both a federal and state prosecutor. Like me, he is dedicated to educating and informing the American public about the threats to our democracy. Today, we discussed several crucial pro-democracy topics, including what the House and Senate may look like after this election, the threat Trump poses to the UN, NATO, and our foreign allies, and how Trump struggles to connect with the Gen Z demographic. Thanks to our sponsor: HumanN: Give your cholesterol health advanced support with a free month’s supply of SuperBerine™ plus 15% off. Go to https://superberine.com and enter promo code COHEN. Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we’re pleased to welcome Dan Alexander to Mea Culpa. As a senior editor at Forbes, he oversees money-in-politics coverage and is widely recognized for his reporting on Donald Trump. Dan has investigated numerous public figures, including Trump, and his work has played a significant role in various investigations, particularly Trump’s fraud trial. In our conversation, we discussed all things DJT, including, Trump Media and Technology Group, Truth Social, declining stock prices, and Trump’s controversial tax returns. Thanks to our sponsor: Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I had the pleasure of welcoming our good friend Tara Setmayer to discuss the upcoming presidential election. Tara is a prominent political commentator and the co-founder and CEO of The Seneca Project, a bipartisan super PAC led by women that aims to rally women voters in swing states to support Kamala Harris by highlighting women’s rights issues. Together, we delved into Kamala Harris’ campaign marketing strategy, explored ways to build support in swing states, and addressed Trump’s recent comments about Haitians in Springfield, Ohio. Thanks to our sponsor: Head to https://ollie.com and use code: COHEN to receive 60% off your first box of meals when you subscribe today! Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I’m joined by Harry Sisson, a 21-year-old Gen-Z political content creator who has amassed over a million followers on TikTok. Harry has interviewed prominent political figures, including President Joe Biden and Barack Obama. Like me, he has faced targeted attacks from Donald Trump’s campaign for his outspoken views on the threats Trump poses to our country and democracy. In our conversation, we explore Harry’s journey to success on social media, strategies for engaging young people in political issues, and the key concerns that matter to Gen-Z voters in this election. Thanks to our sponsors: Take the next step in improving your health, go to https://lumen.me/COHEN to get 15% off your Lumen. Tommy John: Save 25% on your first order when you go to https://TommyJohn.com/COHEN Subscribe to Michael's NEW Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Mea Culpa, I am honored to speak with Fred Guttenberg, who became a powerful voice for gun reform after the tragic death of his 14-year-old daughter, Jaime, in the Parkland mass shooting in 2018. Fred’s public journey began at a vigil where his moving words captured the nation's attention and ignited his relentless advocacy for gun safety. In our discussion, Fred and I will explore the significance of the upcoming election for gun violence prevention, reflect on recent events like the school shooting in Georgia, and examine the support he has received from Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as his arrest during Trump’s third State of the Union Address. Thanks to our sponsors: Take the next step in improving your health, go to https://lumen.me/COHEN to get 15% off your Lumen. Go to SIMPLISAFE.com/meaculpa to protect your home this summer with 20% off any new SimpliSafe system when you sign up for Fast Protect Monitoring. Subscribe to Michael's NEW YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices