The Beat With Ari Melber - Aug. 7 | Audio Only

Epstein Scandal & White House Response - The White House allegedly held a meeting to discuss the Epstein scandal, despite initial denials from VP Vance [1] - Reports suggest a strategy meeting was cancelled in response to reporting about it, indicating an attempt to manage optics [1] - Trump's claims about banning Epstein from Mar-a-Lago are being questioned, fueling further scrutiny [1] - MAGA figures are expressing discontent with the administration's handling of the Epstein case, signaling a potential revolt [1] Trump's Actions & Economic Impact - Trump is accused of using Soviet-style tactics, creating an alternate reality and potentially chilling free speech [5] - The administration's interventionist approach is likened to that of strongmen in countries like Turkey and Argentina [4] - New tariffs are described as a $300 billion tax hike, disproportionately affecting working and middle-class Americans [4] - Concerns are raised about Trump's meddling in private companies, including suggesting CEOs should resign, leading to market instability [3] Free Speech & Corporate Influence - Bob Woodward criticizes Trump's First Amendment crackdowns as "pathetic" [5] - Corporations are allegedly influenced by Trump, with examples given of Paramount/Skyance merger and Colbert's cancellation [5] - A novelist who grew up in Russia draws parallels between Trump's actions and Soviet censorship, raising concerns about self-censorship [5] - There are concerns that people are afraid to voice their true feelings, leading to a distorted reality [5]