Blanche Meets Maxwell Again: DOJ Questions Epstein Associate About 100 People in 2-Day Interview.

Deputy Attorney General Blanche cites possible “lead-generating” info amid mounting pressures on DOJ.

On July 25, 2025, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche continued his second day of closed-door interviews with Ghislaine Maxwell at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tallahassee. Officials say he aims to determine whether Maxwell has credible information tied to individuals who committed crimes against Epstein victims ([Reuters](Reuter)).

🧾 What Took Place

⚖️ Context & Oversight

• Political Pressure Mounts: With the Wall Street Journal report revealing Trump was told his name appears in Epstein files in May, both Republicans and Democrats have ratcheted up demands for greater DOJ transparency. Blanche's interview is widely seen as a response to that pressure.(The Guardian)

• Rare DOJ Engagement: Experts call it highly unusual for a deputy attorney general—previously Trump’s criminal defense lawyer—to personally interview a convicted associate. Questions now swirl on whether politics are shaping justice. (The Guardian)

🔍 SMH Takeaway: Cooperation or Cloaking?

First contact, now full disclosure? Maxwell’s cooperation across two days marks a dramatic DOJ pivot. But without clarity about what was asked—and whether her responses can be corroborated—the process raises as many questions as answers.

With Congress subpoenaing Maxwell for a deposition on August 11 and internal critics calling it a “secret meeting,” Blanche’s engagement may be seen as transparency or a staged reset intended to quiet criticism.

The real question remains: Is this the start of truth or a closed-door performance with conclusions kept out of sight?

😐🇺🇸 #SMHAmerica #EpsteinTruthTalk

📰 Related Coverage

• People.com
• The Guardian
• The Times of India

 Donald Trump to Appear on Joe Rogan's Podcast Ahead of 2024 Election

Reports are emerging that Donald Trump, former U.S. president and 2024 Republican presidential candidate, is set to appear on the hugely popular "Joe Rogan Experience" podcast. The news has stirred considerable interest as both figures command significant attention in the media and political landscape.

According to multiple sources, including NBC News, Joe Rogan is scheduled to record a podcast with Trump this Friday in Austin, Texas. The episode is expected to be released in the lead-up to the pivotal November 5, 2024, presidential election. This Trump Joe Rogan podcast 2024 interview could have a significant impact on the political discourse as the election nears.

Trump’s upcoming appearance follows reports that Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, was also in discussions about appearing on the podcast. However, it remains unclear if Harris has finalized her guest spot or if negotiations are still ongoing.

The relationship between Trump and Rogan has been dynamic. Rogan has expressed both agreement and criticism regarding Trump on various issues. Though Donald Trump on Joe Rogan's show has long been speculated, Rogan was previously reluctant to host the former president.

In a 2022 conversation with Lex Fridman, Rogan stated, “By the way, I’m not a Trump supporter in any way, shape, or form... I’ve had the opportunity to have him on my show more than once. I’ve said no every time. I don’t want to help him. I’m not interested in helping him.” Despite these previous remarks, the Joe Rogan podcast Trump interview is now set to take place as the election draws closer.

While Trump has generally praised Rogan in the past, tensions arose earlier this year after Rogan voiced support for independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. During a podcast episode, Rogan said Kennedy was “the only one who makes sense to me (for president),” sparking a sharp response from Trump on his Truth Social platform. Trump criticized Rogan, writing, “It will be interesting to see how loudly Joe Rogan gets BOOED the next time he enters the UFC Ring??? MAGA2024.”

This Trump Rogan podcast election 2024 appearance will likely be a key moment in the final stages of the campaign. Fans and critics alike will be closely watching the release of this highly anticipated Trump Joe Rogan podcast episode. The conversation is expected to cover a wide range of topics, including Trump’s policies, the state of the 2024 election, and Rogan’s evolving stance on politics.

With Trump Rogan podcast rumors 2024 swirling, it remains to be seen how the interview will influence voters. Regardless, the episode promises to be a significant media event, offering insights into both Trump’s campaign and Rogan’s political outlook as the election looms.

 Giuliani Ordered to Forfeit Manhattan Apartment to Georgia Election Workers in Court Ruling

A federal judge has ruled that Rudy Giuliani must surrender his Manhattan apartment and other assets to two Georgia election workers, following a $148 million defamation verdict against him. The U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman's decision marks a major setback for Giuliani, who has yet to pay any of the judgment.

In addition to his Upper East Side Manhattan apartment, the ruling requires Giuliani to turn over assets, including a Mercedes-Benz, several luxury watches, cash, and a $2 million legal claim for unpaid fees from the Trump 2020 campaign and the Republican National Committee. He has been given seven days to comply.

This ruling stems from a defamation lawsuit filed by Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, two Georgia election workers, who were falsely accused by Giuliani of election fraud during the 2020 presidential election. His unfounded claims led to severe harassment and threats against the women, causing significant personal and professional harm.

The court ruling on Giuliani’s Manhattan property and assets is a result of his continued resistance to pay any part of the defamation judgment. Giuliani's failure to cooperate with bankruptcy proceedings earlier this year, along with his refusal to provide a clear financial picture, led to a dismissal of his bankruptcy case. This allowed Freeman and Moss, two of Giuliani's largest creditors, to pursue his assets.

While the court ordered Giuliani to forfeit his Manhattan apartment, the judge delayed a decision regarding his Palm Beach condo. This property is currently the focus of a separate lawsuit, with Freeman and Moss claiming Giuliani is attempting to shield the condo from creditors by falsely claiming it as his primary residence under Florida’s homestead law.

This court decision adds another layer to Giuliani’s legal struggles as he faces increasing pressure to settle the defamation case brought by the Georgia election workers.

 Multiple Individuals Charged in Connection with Actor Matthew Perry’s Overdose Death

Several individuals have been charged in connection with the accidental overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, according to law enforcement sources who spoke with NBC News on Thursday.

Perry, 54, was discovered unresponsive in the heated section of his pool at his Pacific Palisades residence on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that his death was due to the acute effects of ketamine, a powerful anesthetic with hallucinogenic properties.

Sources reported that at least one arrest was made in Southern California early Thursday. Federal prosecutors are expected to unseal an indictment later today, detailing the charges against this individual and others involved.

The family of Keith Morrison, a “Dateline” correspondent and Perry’s stepfather, expressed their relief at the recent developments.

“We were and continue to be devastated by Matthew’s passing, but it brings some solace knowing that law enforcement has treated his case with the seriousness it deserves,” the family stated. “We look forward to seeing justice served.”

In May, the Los Angeles police confirmed their collaboration with federal authorities to investigate the source of the ketamine found in Perry’s system.

Ketamine, long popular as a recreational drug, has recently gained attention for its potential in treating depression. An increasing number of clinics offer ketamine infusions or injections for various mental health conditions.

Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, though his last session occurred over a week before his death. The medical examiner noted that the ketamine detected in Perry’s body “could not be from that infusion therapy” due to its short half-life.

The ketamine levels in his system were significantly high, comparable to those used for general anesthesia in surgical procedures, according to the medical examiner’s findings.

Ultimately, Perry’s death was ruled accidental, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid dependence.

Perry, beloved for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show “Friends,” had been candid about his struggles with opioid addiction and alcoholism, which he detailed in his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” The medical examiner’s report noted that Perry had been sober for 19 months at the time of his death.

It’s not unusual for law enforcement to investigate and, in some cases, charge those responsible for supplying drugs that lead to high-profile fatalities.

For example, after Michael Jackson’s death in 2009, his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for administering a fatal dose of potent drugs. More recently, federal prosecutors in New York charged four individuals who provided actor Michael K. Williams with the fentanyl-laced heroin that resulted in his 2021 death.

Trump's Chaotic Musk Interview: A Public Relations Nightmare

For a billionaire with a fascination for flirting with far-right ideologies, Elon Musk has an uncanny talent for making conservative figures look foolish.

Former President Donald Trump eagerly promoted his upcoming Monday night interview with Musk, which was set to stream on X (formerly Twitter). However, much like the rocky launch of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ presidential campaign on the same platform, the Trump-Musk interview turned into a social media debacle, inviting widespread mockery over the glaring technical glitches and lack of preparedness.

Since Kamala Harris secured the top spot on the Democratic ticket last month, Trump’s campaign has been struggling. His immature attacks on Harris have fallen flat, and his racist remarks about her mixed-race background have alienated all but his staunchest supporters. His choice of JD Vance as his running mate has also backfired, with Vance becoming increasingly unappealing with each public appearance.

In an odd and likely misguided attempt to regain his footing, Trump decided to sit down with Musk for a chat with an audience that skews heavily online and does not reflect the broader electorate. Even if the interview had gone smoothly, it would have been a strange and ineffective move in Trump’s efforts to counter Harris’ growing momentum.

But the interview did not go smoothly. It went off the rails almost immediately. As the scheduled start time came and went, X users were left in the dark, either laughing or fuming as the broadcast failed to begin. It took over 40 minutes before the interview finally started, adding another layer of embarrassment to a campaign already struggling to maintain a veneer of competence.

Trump, who had previously ridiculed DeSantis for his Twitter interview disaster in May 2023, writing, “Wow! The DeSanctus TWITTER launch is a DISASTER! His whole campaign will be a disaster. WATCH!”, found himself in a similar, if not worse, predicament.

Once the interview finally got underway, things didn’t improve for Trump. His speech was disjointed, jumping from topics like crowd sizes and immigration to President Joe Biden and other random thoughts. Worse still, his slurred speech raised further concerns about his health and did nothing to dispel growing worries about his age and fitness for office.

Musk, who lacks the ability to steer a conversation or challenge his guest, merely echoed Trump’s bizarre statements, occasionally veering off on his own right-wing tangents, much like a man too wealthy to be told he’s wrong.

Quoting anything from the interview would be pointless, as Trump’s remarks were either too incoherent to transcribe or recycled from his usual rally rhetoric.

Trump's message has become tiresomely predictable: build a wall, drill for oil, bash Marxists and socialists, and make racially insensitive remarks about Harris. His latest attempt to revitalize his campaign by teaming up with a tech mogul known for social media missteps resulted in what Trump himself might call a "DISASTER!"

Musk, with his clumsy handling of social media and inflated sense of self-importance, first made DeSantis look inept. Now, he’s done the same to Trump.

At this rate, Musk’s continued blunders might even win him some unlikely fans.

 In Loving Memory of Mathew Perry

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mathew Perry, who departed from this world on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. Mathew, a beloved son, brother, and friend, left us suddenly, leaving a void that can never be filled. 

Mathew was born on June 19, 1969, and grew up to be a remarkable individual, touching the lives of everyone he met with his kindness, humor, and unwavering optimism. He was a loving son to his parents, a caring sibling to his brothers and sisters, and a cherished friend to many. His warm smile and gentle spirit endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A talented professional, Mathew was dedicated to his work and inspired those around him with his passion and creativity. He pursued his career with diligence and enthusiasm, leaving a lasting impact on his colleagues and the organizations he served. His contributions to his field were invaluable, and his legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mathew had a deep love for his family and friends. He was always there to lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, and share a hearty laugh. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was a source of strength and support for those in need.

Mathew's love for life extended to his hobbies and interests. He had a passion for travel, exploring different cultures and cuisines, and embracing the beauty of the world. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and had a profound appreciation for art, music, and literature.

Mathew will be dearly missed by his family and friends, who take comfort in the memories of the time they shared with him. Although he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the love he shared, the laughter he brought, and the kindness he showed to others.

A memorial service to celebrate Mathew's life will be held on [date] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to [charity or organization], a cause that was close to Mathew's heart.

Remembering Matthew Perry: A look back at "Friends" star's career and troubled life

May Mathew Perry rest in eternal peace, his memory forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In Other SMH America News

Sidney Powell, Former Trump Attorney, Admits Guilt in Georgia Election Subversion Trial

Ladies and gentlemen, grab your popcorn and prepare for a political plot twist that even Hollywood couldn’t dream up! I'm Tanya "The Tea" Tilman, your sassy source for all things scandalous, and boy, do I have a tale for you today.

In a shocking turn of events, former Trump attorney Sidney Powell has pleaded guilty in the Georgia election subversion case, just a day before her trial was set to start. Now, I know what you're thinking – guilty pleas and politics, it's practically a match made in heaven!

Powell, once a fierce defender of Trump, is now singing a different tune. She's admitting her role in the January 2021 election system breach in rural Coffee County, Georgia. With the finesse of a circus acrobat, Powell managed to plead guilty to six misdemeanors, significantly less than the seven felonies she initially faced. Ah, the art of negotiation in the legal world – it's like a high-stakes game of poker!

But wait, there's more! Powell's guilty plea includes testifying at future trials, writing an apology letter to the citizens of Georgia, forking over nearly $9,000 in restitution and fines, and handing over documents. It's almost like a political reality show, and Powell is taking the stage as the reluctant star.

Interestingly, Trump, her former ally in all things controversial, was not mentioned in Powell's plea documents. It's as if he's been edited out of this particular episode, leaving us all wondering what role he might play in the next season of "Political Intrigues and Legal Maneuvers."

BREAKING NEWS: Former Trump Lawyer Sidney Powell Pleads Guilty In Georgia Election Subversion Case

Powell's sudden change of tune has sent shockwaves through the legal world, leaving experts scratching their heads in surprise. But hey, in the world of politics, one thing's for sure – expect the unexpected, and always keep an eye on who might be spilling the tea next! Stay tuned for more scandalous updates and political shenanigans with yours truly, Tanya "The Tea" Tilman!

In Other SMH America News

 Talk Show Legend will be Missed: Jerry Springer Dead at 79

Jerry Springer, the charismatic talk show host known for his outrageous guests and shocking revelations, has passed away at the age of 79. He died on April 27th, 2023, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born in London, England, in 1944, Jerry Springer began his career as a lawyer before transitioning to politics. He served as a city councilman and later as the mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio. However, it was his talk show, "The Jerry Springer Show," which premiered in 1991, that made him a household name.

Throughout the show's 27-year run, Springer tackled controversial topics and welcomed guests who were often embroiled in salacious scandals. His show quickly became known for its explosive confrontations and over-the-top antics, making it a staple of daytime television.

Despite the criticism and controversy surrounding his show, Springer always maintained that it was meant to entertain and provide a platform for people to share their stories. He remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his impact on television and popular culture will not be forgotten.

In addition to his work in television, Springer also hosted several game shows and even appeared on "Dancing with the Stars" in 2006.

Jerry Springer dies at the age of 79

Jerry Springer is survived by his wife, Micki Velton, whom he married in 1973, and their daughter, Katie Springer. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans around the world.

Tucker Carlson talks about Bobby Crimo

During his Tuesday show, Tucker Carlson insinuated that women who lecture men about male privilege may contribute to mass shootings in the United States. Carlson's comments came after the recent mass shooting at a July 4th parade in Highland Park, Illinois, where seven people were killed, and over two dozen people were injured. The primary suspect, Robert E. Crimo III, was charged with seven counts of first-degree murder.

Carlson claimed that poor mental health is a significant factor in mass shootings and stated that there are many people like Crimo in America. Carlson pointed out that Crimo did not seem like a stable person, yet no one raised the alarm. Carlson suggested that this is because there are many young men in America who look and act like Crimo, living in a solitary fantasy world of social media, porn, and video games.

He then claimed that these men may be angry because they believe their lives will be worse than their parents', and that they are high on drugs. Carlson asserted that these men are prescribed psychotropic drugs, such as SSRIs or antidepressants, and that a shockingly large number of them have been prescribed these drugs by their doctors.

Carlson questioned why the authorities did not act on the red flags they had seen from Crimo before his alleged actions in the July 4 attack. He highlighted two instances where police encountered Crimo before the shooting, where he attempted to die by suicide and had a large collection of knives confiscated.

In conclusion, Tucker Carlson suggested that women lecturing men about male privilege and poor mental health are significant factors that contribute to mass shootings in the United States. He also questioned why the authorities did not act more on the red flags they had seen from Crimo.

 Under Pressure: Tucker Carlson’s Debunked Conspiracy Theory Cited By Buffalo Shooting Suspect

Pharrell Williams Sues Trump

Pharrell Williams has sent a cease-and-desist letter to President Donald Trump after the latter played Williams' 2014 hit song "Happy" at a political event in the Midwest on the same day that nearly a dozen people were killed at a Pittsburgh synagogue. Williams' lawyer stated that the use of the song was in violation of "copyright infringement" and "trademark rights," and that permission was not granted for its use for political purposes. The letter also made it clear that Williams will not allow Trump to use any of his musical catalogs in the future. This is not the first time that Trump has been criticized for his use of songs at political events.

Other musicians, including Aerosmith, R.E.M., Prince's Estate, and Queen, have also objected to the president's use of their music. Entertainment lawyer Zachary Elsea warns that artists are now more likely to find out if their music is being used without permission due to the internet and social media, and many artists are willing to sue politicians who use their work without permission.

Arnold Schwarzenegger Admonishes Trump

Arnold Schwarzenegger Compares US Capitol Riot to Kristallnacht

In a video posted to social media on Sunday, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger condemned the riot at the US Capitol and compared it to Kristallnacht, a night in November 1938 when Nazi thugs attacked Jewish Germans and their property. The riot, which President Donald Trump incited, led to the death of five people, including a Capitol police officer and a rioter shot by law enforcement. The rioters, who were supporters of President Trump, broke into the Capitol after he told them to “fight like hell” in support of his attempt to overturn the election defeat by Joe Biden.

Schwarzenegger, who grew up in Austria and was very aware of Kristallnacht, said in the video that Wednesday’s riot was the “Day of Broken Glass” right in the United States. He stated that the mob did not just shatter the windows of the Capitol but also shattered the ideals Americans took for granted. He warned that such events can spin out of control and urged Americans to be aware of the dire consequences of selfishness and cynicism. Schwarzenegger also commended lawmakers who regathered after the assault on the Capitol to confirm Biden’s victory, despite objections from 147 Republican representatives and senators.

Schwarzenegger is a Republican and has clashed with Trump before. He described Trump as a failed leader and claimed he would go down in history as the worst president ever. He appealed to Americans’ patriotism and compared American democracy to the steel of a sword, saying that the more it is tempered, the stronger it becomes. He wished President-elect Joe Biden well and warned those who think they can overturn the US Constitution that they would never win.

Trump, who will leave office on January 20, now faces a second impeachment.

Remembering Sarah Huckabee Sanders: Migrant Children at the Border

During a White House press briefing, reporter Brian Karem accused Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the White House press secretary, of lacking empathy over the Trump administration's policy of separating migrant children from their families. Karem asked Sanders if she had any empathy for what these people were going through, saying, "Come on Sarah, you’re a parent." The Trump administration’s policy of prosecuting parents who cross the border with their children has led to an increase in the number of young migrants held in government shelters. Karem expressed his concern about the conditions of the shelters, saying, "These people have nothing, they come to the border with nothing and you throw them in cages."

Donald Trump Jr. bombs hard at a CPAC event

Late-night host Stephen Colbert criticized Donald Trump Jr. for a joke he made during his speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, which fell flat with the audience. Colbert jokingly referred to Trump Jr. as the "son of the former president and guy pointing out that cocaine is technically a vegetable" before playing the clip of the unsuccessful joke. Trump Jr. stated, "Texas has always led the charge. Well, ’til about, like, a couple of months ago, and then Austin kind of took over. Like, I don’t know guys, like, Texas was leading the charge. You’re still top 25. We gotta work on that stuff because some people have lost their minds, right?”