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Transcript
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SPEAKER 3
So I was forced to be evacuated as a result of the LA fires. I'm not sure the status of my home right now, but I'm reporting from you from a safe location. My family is safe. My dogs are safe. That's really all that matters.
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And what matters to me is that as many people are safe as possible, that everybody is safe. My heart goes out to everybody impacted by the devastation that's occurred moments ago as well. We learned that fire had broken out by Brett's home. Brett's home had not been the subject of any prior fires,
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but a fire broke out right near where his direct exit is. And so he had to flee and he had to escape. And so our hearts are with Brett right now during this chaotic moment as well. We'll do our best to keep you updated on Brett's status,

MeidasTouch Podcast Ad-Free - 1/9/25

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Hi everyone,

Apologies for the delay in releasing the ad-free version of the latest MeidasTouch Podcast, available exclusively here on Meidas+. The recent fires and evacuations have temporarily displaced us and limited our resources. The good news is that we’re safe, and we’re working hard to bring you the news and reporting you’ve come to rely on.

In this episode, Ben and Jordy cover the latest breaking news, with Ben reporting from an off-site location due to evacuation orders. Brett, unfortunately, was ordered to evacuate just prior to recording. We discuss updates on the California wildfires and the MAGA disinformation campaign aimed at disrupting relief efforts on the ground. Our hearts go out to the families impacted, and we are incredibly grateful for the first responders.

Watch the full ad-free episode above!

Meidas+ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Discussion about this video

User's avatar
Phgladko's avatar

Bravery is different things to different people. Despite the devastation going on around you, you are still doing your job, keeping us informed and soldiering on. It takes great strength ti carry on in the face of adversity. Thank you Ben.

Here's to the first responders, leaders and emergency workers fighting the fires and saving lives.

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Jeri Hartsell's avatar

Exactly! Prayers, gratitude, high fives, hugs to them & their families. Godspeed.

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Jobi Linn Schaeffer's avatar

I hope all of you stay safe. We are with you, as well.

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Noly Garland's avatar

Thank you for your willingness to continue to fight Donnie, GOP.

The world watching. He doesn’t look “cool”, Elon just continuing to make himself a fool. It’s nothing to do with him.

Just don’t understand. If we all spoke up, Joe, kamala and said the same things they do..would that work? Would they turn around and scream..we must help them?

They attack for the reason because it’s pure malice and spite.

No other (except Russia, N.Korea) would refuse to help their own country.

I hope you and your families, Brett are going to be ok.

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Sue Immerman's avatar

I don't even know how you can function amid the very immediate threats to your family and community. Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourselves. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

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Karin Powers's avatar

I'm feeling for you, Ben. I don't want to say "Thoughts and Prayers" because it sins so trite, but you are truly in my heart and I feel your angst. As part of the The Midas Mighty, we've got you!

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Joan's avatar

Amazing , what you guys do. We read you every day and appreciate your approach to the craziness that exists while Drumpf is still around…not to mention the fires and destruction you face. Nice white snow in the New England region of NYS. Still lucky here, but also grateful for what you do…

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Noly Garland's avatar

I’m watching this..and you and Jordy speaking so much of what is WRONG with this upcoming administration…I have tears in my eyes.

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Susan Francis's avatar

He (trump) has never seen a tragedy he wasn't willing to exploit.

Take care my brothers.

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Barbara Poag's avatar

Glad your family and you are safe.prayers to everyone🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️

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Sue Immerman's avatar

As I try to think of how I can help from Maryland, I also want to know what the billionaire is doing to help. Is he donating anything but meanness toward Californians? AND does he actually make any charitable donations to entities that don't benefit him?

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Marjorie's avatar

No, only if it benefits him. SMH.

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Jeanne Hamm's avatar

Love & caring to Ben & Family. !!!

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Heather Dugdale's avatar

You and your brothers have found your passion and share it with a world that so desperately needs light - even in the face of your own community's unspeakable darkness. Thank you for keeping at it. Thank you for being a beacon of hope and tenacity and courage and strength. Keep at it! Please. You are needed now more than ever.

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Peggy's avatar

Glad you are safe.. thank you for your continued contribution to pro democracy..and basic humanity

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Shelly Reusser's avatar

I'm glad you're all safe. I am hoping you can do a video about the support we are receiving from Mexico and Canada. I'm sure we will see a sharp contrast under the incoming administration.

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Betty Wilusz's avatar

Glad you are all safe.we are all here for all of you.🙏🙏🙏

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Jeanne Hamm's avatar

Thanks, Jordy, & stay safe & protected! My heart is crying at the news of Brett. Very suspicious!!!

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Cindy Dore's avatar

Please stay safe. I am so very sorry about the fires. It is terrible!

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Jane in NC's avatar

Hope everyone stays safe and sound! Also, a big THANK YOU to Canada and Mexico for sending us firefighters, equipment and planes despite the trash talking they've gotten from THE FELON. ❤️💚🇨🇦🇲🇽💚❤️👏👏👏👏🙌🙌

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Brenda Leonard's avatar

How horrific! Your family must be so worried! Focus on you! We will always be here for you and your family ❤️

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John Wachuta's avatar

Hope you and your family are ok. It’s hard to imagine the devastation that is out in your area. Stay strong and stay safe.

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Ben Holstrom's avatar

Where are the republican extremists billionaires doing the help in the 🔥 efforts?

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Kirsten Hockaday's avatar

Thank heaven you, your family and pets are safe. I am praying for the safety of all those who are affected by the fires in LA. The Orange Traitor Felon is the lowest form of slithering life and his miserable comments show his lack of intelligence and compassion. I can not remember in over 70 years that we have had a less empathetic individual in the presidency. He is worthless as well as his worthless cabinet picks. The muskrat he chose for his co-presidency is an over grown toddler without the common sense of any human. It is the shell game - look here, don't look at the man behind the curtain ripping us off daily.

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Susan Klemetsen's avatar

I was reading an article in People magazine about someone who died in the fire. Five MAGAs were repeating Trump's LIES in the comments. These people believe everything he says. He's a known LIAR. I corrected them, of course. Take care of yourselves Meidas Brothers!

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joylightin@gmail.com's avatar

I am so so sad about California in general, but my focus is on the Mighty MEIDAS family... I'm so happy everyone was able to get out of the fire... And I'm very sad that it's happening in California... My fingers are crossed that everyone made it out..

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Mrs Gail Merritt's avatar

Trump is the devil himself . He has a lot of nerve . He lied continuously about COVID. 1.2 million people lost their lives under this person . It’s heart breaking that people trusted him AGAIN after his horrible handling of the pandemic.

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Dana Moore's avatar

All of you are in our thoughts. Stay safe.

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Kirsten Hockaday's avatar

The Orange Traitor Felon is showing how much he is not "handling" things. Accusing the Governor of being responsible for dry fire hydrants, blaming the fire on democrats, he is showing how unhinged and stupid he really is. I personally do not listen to a word the Orange Traitor Felon says - he is disgusting and physically revolting to me and I suspect to a majority of We the People. I will celebrate the day he passes from this world and it can not be too soon.

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Linda Johnston's avatar

Stay safe !! My heart is with you all!!!🙏

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Marylynn Melton's avatar

I appreciate your not playing Trump videos SO MUCH. Seeing his face, hearing his voice — not to mention his lunatic statements — make my blood boil. You guys are doing such a good job of keeping the disinformation out of the way so the rest of us can hear the honest news. Thank you so much

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JANET L WARD's avatar

You and your family stay safe. Hopefully Brett's OK too.

Question, is there any way that the military say no to invading anybody? Can the US fight back against all this shit her is doing and saying? God I hope so.

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Wendy Buxton's avatar

Brett and Ben, your bravery and commitment to getting your podcasts out in the face of possible personal devastation, is truly awe-inspiring! Praying for your safe return home, and for all who are affected 💗

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Ann's avatar

I've read this yesterday. I pray things are better for everyone. My prayers are with all.

I've been listening to not only you but your associates as well.

The task you have undertaken disclosing- the prevailing situations and actions from these derelicts who are currently directing our country into complete chaos. I wish you could tell us how as citizens can help. Yes, I know of some. We need to be more aggressive, 'you can't do it all can someone in your community what we can do. I believe we need direction to be effective, please it's frustrating to just be an active listener. My background is advertising and public speaker. Not a politician. I'm sure there are lots of us wanting to help but we need to be guided. I still wish your messages could be translated so we can forward them. It's time citizens get educated on politics...we need to be help so we can complement your efforts 👌 please consider this. We need to help somehow. We need to unify our efforts.

My continued payers for strength , wisdom, health and peace...my love to the 🐕 doggies.

.

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Wanda_46's avatar

Thanks for this video, Ben & Jordy! (Yes, please never leave us hanging without real news when you must chose.) Our prayers are with you all in CA as we have an unusual snowfall where I am in NC. So I did what I had to do & made a big pot of homemade vegetable beef soup, just like mama used to make. LOL Thanks for being here for us! I LOVE you guys & so glad you were on this evening!

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Theresa Diane Kuper's avatar

Glad your safe. I know this is devastating. I live in a fire zone and almost had to evacuate from my home. My heart goes out to all the folks. Be safe and take care.

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Brenda Leonard's avatar

I am so sorry to hear 😭

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sj's avatar

This is what I sent to WI repubs about their criminal cult leader

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Lee Michele's avatar

My heart is broken to hear this kind of meanness and ignorance. This has never happened during natural disasters. Be well and safe

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Lloyd Henderson's avatar

Another great report.

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Mrs Gail Merritt's avatar

Please stay safe . We’re with you Ben . 👍

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sgaurora's avatar

🙏🏽🫂💔 so much to comment on, want to say pets are family too, thank you for taking care of yours, hope this disaster ends quickly with no more suffering

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Trumphatesus:('s avatar

Take care of yourself and your family. We will

Not stray as you deal with this catastrophe.

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Jay's avatar

Bro, take a day off.

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Judith Comartin's avatar

That is how we, Jews, felt when Oct 8th, as folks were still being mutilated and stolen, there were uprisings for the 'poor palestinians'. Insensitivity and lies MUST END!

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Jen McMillin's avatar

Ben and team - I'm so glad so far everyone is safe. Please let me know how I can help.

Seriously.

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ET's avatar

Stay Safe Meidas Mighty🙏🙏

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julie wagner's avatar

Be safe, Brett, Ben, and Jordy. The USA needs you to report the truth, as so few other sources can be found to do it.

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Marylynn Melton's avatar

So true!!

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Nikki's avatar

I completely understand your family’s well being is priority. I really appreciate all the work this network is doing in keeping us informed and up to date with the current news. I am sharing it with others. I am still praying for California. Praying for God to send rain. He is able and He is still a miracle worker.

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KATHERINE KNOWLES's avatar

Thankyou for ALL that you do and have done to keep truth alive. Hoping you all stay safe.

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Diane E Bellard's avatar

Sending prayers for Brett's safe evacuation! I know how important the work of the MTN is to all of you, but I think I can speak for others when I say if you need as break to take care of things we will all certainly understand.

Trump politicizing a natural disaster like this is perfectly on-brand for him and nothing new. Never have we had a president to behave in such a despicable fashion. I bet that every person in California affected by these fires who voted for him are beginning to see him for what he is. If he gets in office and decides to withhold federal support in the interest of politics, it will be a huge abuse of power. We must all stand in opposition to that.

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Marjorie's avatar

Just so sad that MAGA uses these horrific events to promote their own agenda. My heart is with you and your family. I can’t imagine how you still manage to keep going with what’s going on. You are super human!

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Tamie Swain's avatar

Stay safe - we appreciate your reports but priority one is self-care

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Donna Tignor's avatar

I pray for all of you. I am so sorry you all are dealing with this fire and with Dump and his evilness.

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JudiLI's avatar

All you in LA stay safe!

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Susan C's avatar

I pray for everyone's safety and for the protection of their homes/businesses from the wildfires.

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Patty's avatar

Don’t apologize; we know there is a lot going on in your world! Thank you all for still fighting to bring us the latest news! Prayers for everyone dealing with this devastating fire 🙏 and please, everyone stay safe! ❤️

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Ann Unertl's avatar

I’m sending prayers to surround & permeate you, your family and all involved with these horrific fires. I just donated money to Lutheran World Relief for LA Wildlife Fires. As a Katrina volunteer for several years, LWR was very supportive throughout the total recovery. They stay and assist till the community is back up on its feet.

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Yves Riguet's avatar

Be safe my friend.. 🖐️

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Michael Brady's avatar

To all the many followers of the Midas Touch and Ben and Brett our hearts go out to you all from supporters in the UK. We will never stop supporting you all ❤️❤️🇬🇧🇬🇧

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Maryann Zdralek's avatar

I hope you and your family are safe! I too live in Southern California and it’s scary as hell when the alarms go off on your phone. Mine has several times. DJT is a “Weapon of Mass Destruction!” How many people died needlessly under his watch from Covid? How many of us are going to die this time around? God forbid California gets hit by a big earthquake in the next 4 years! I don’t know what to do anymore. How can he be let anywhere near the WH?

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Vannase's avatar

Hang in there boys! Northern California are praying for all of you. We thank the first responders the LA Firefighters the others that have come from as far as Canada

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Carolea Hassard's avatar

The magamedia is totally decayed and being kept alive with maggots. Yes, never before Trump has disaster been used as such a political weapon. Decent people who have minds of their own care about the victims. Those brainwashed by that felon focus on blame instead. Be safe as you can.

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Karen Schaaf's avatar

Thank you for the updates. Stay safe!!!!

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Susan Klemetsen's avatar

Then I guess we shouldn't support people who willingly move into hurricane zones in Florida. Republicans are too much! What would they have CA do? Cut down all the trees? Rake the forests? These politicians bend over backward to enable Trump's depravity!

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Ann's avatar

My prayers are with you and your families for safety.

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Ann's avatar

Seditious Conspiracy is a federal felony (18 U.S. Code § 2384) punishable by 20 years in prison. A person can also be denaturalized & deported for conspiring to overthrow or seize our government. I found this interesting. Is this an alternative?

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Ann's avatar

If you haven't heard, there will be an economic blackout Feb 28 nationwide. This means don't buy ANYTHING unless it's from a small business. No gas, fast food, and definitely not Target, Walmart, or Amazon.

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Janet Suriano's avatar

You are doing a lot Ben you keep us going with the truth

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Janet Suriano's avatar

We are with you Ben

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Janet Suriano's avatar

I feel like you guys are my family❤️

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Janet Suriano's avatar

Oh my God did Brett lose his home???

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Cynthia Mory's avatar

I don’t have a comment on the current podcast because recently I have not been able to listen. I keep getting Substack error messages. Anyone know what’s going on?

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Patricia 007's avatar

PLEASE HELP REP SWALWELL🙏

The American people vs 45

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Kathy H's avatar

Vile is the word, Jordy. Everything you guys say brings it home. Appreciation for everyone putting so much into bringing us together! ❤️

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joylightin@gmail.com's avatar

I'm so sad about your home. I'm happy your dog, your baby and your wife and yourself is safe and sound. Hopefully you do an excellent job informing us about the political situation and the train wreck called Ronald McRump

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MK's avatar

Ben thank God your family and dogs are safe. We the Medias Mighty we care. Ben just stay focused God will lead you on the path. He is right next too you! As well is Brett too and all others.

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Patty's avatar

Our thoughts are with you and your families. Stay safe!

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Marcia Starr's avatar

Please continue to be safe. That is the priority for you and those you care about. Thank you for your continued efforts to keep us informed and encourage us to do our best to fight for democracy.

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Linda Richard's avatar

Dear Ones: Praying for you, knowing that you have the strength, courage and love to get you through whatever happens. You have my love and support. So grateful for this channel.

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Kathy  Judson's avatar

💙💙💙

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Tracy Logan's avatar

Prayers to all affected. But thru all this devastating loss, let us not forget the TRUTH.

Trump has repeatedly blamed Biden , Newsom and a gay fire chief.

The largest wildfire in CA history was the August Complex fire. August 2020.

You got it…on DTs watch

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Barbara's avatar

Trump's name will live in infamy for his inhumanity and arrogant disregard for the American people, even his own supporters. No other President in history has the unmitigated gall to voice the things he spews daily, hourly, moment by moment he exceeds himself. I have nothing but contempt for him and his family. Pandora's Box is open, and the only saving grace is HOPE for our future beyond his reach. GOD BLESS AMERICA....

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Sarah's avatar

What to do when madman convicted felon attacks Gov. Newsom while Newsom is busy providing disaster relief?

Do as Wajahat Ali said: counter it with a truth sandwich:

speak the truth,

state the lie,

reiterate the truth.

I encourage MeidasTouch Network to use the truth sandwich from now on, so that the truth leads, not the lie.

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michael cannon's avatar

You are completely essential, Ben, exactly where you are

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michael cannon's avatar

Love, Brothers💖

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Michael Brady's avatar

Wishing you and Brett all the luck while this terrible fire is raging. We are thinking of you bro's from your UK supporter 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇺🇸🇺🇸

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Jen Wozniak's avatar

This is what I’m trying to post on x

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Vivienne Frost's avatar

Hi Ben, I really enjoy what good clear information you and your brothers ‘bring to the table’ I was very interested in the LAFD budget and recently what Mayor Karen Bass had approved or cut from budget. I thought I understood somewhat after your podcast today. But then I read Jessica Burbank’s Drop site “LA Firefighters Beg the City not to Cut Funding” and I’m confused; there is so much content. After reading, I got the feeling that what Karen Bass has done was not good. I guess I’m just asking for clarification.

Also …I hope your and your brother Brett’s homes will be okay. I am grateful for what you do even in these very difficult times.

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Barb O's avatar

Thanks for posting this. It adds to the knowledge I am accumulating with regards to how these fires work. I so wish that people who have no clue would just stop spreading the lies.

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0:42
but a fire broke out right near where his direct exit is. And so he had to flee and he had to escape. And so our hearts are with Brett right now during this chaotic moment as well. We'll do our best to keep you updated on Brett's status,