The Daily Dean Newsletter – Friday, August 8, 2025 Trump's Tariff Depression, Russia's Fake Peace Deal, Trump/Putin Summit, Epstein Files Distraction Brings Another Meltdown Dean Blundell Aug 8 Good Morning! Here are the top five stories democracy lovers need to know today! *Truth over tyranny isn’t just a slogan—it’s a mission. We’re powered by you and work for no one else. Sharing and subscribing fuels fearless, independent journalism committed to defending democracy from rising authoritarianism…🙏 1. Trump's Historic (and Hilarious) Tariffs: A Global Economic Blunder Donald Trump is at it again, but this time he’s hit dozens of countries with new tariffs that defy logic and common sense. As if the world needed more of his economic genius, Trump has decided to "reignite" trade wars with allies and adversaries alike. The tariffs, which have left both the U.S. and its trading partners scratching their heads, will undoubtedly create more economic chaos than clarity. In his quest to make everything "America First," he’s set to burden U.S. businesses and consumers even more. Check out the full breakdown of Trump's latest attempt at financial wreckage: CNN. (Wait till Brad can’t buy bread, gas, meat, thanks to Trump’s “Freedom Tax”) 2. Trump’s Failed Attempt to Distract from the Epstein Files: Trump may try to spin the narrative, but the Epstein Files are not going anywhere. In his latest public spectacle, he once again dismissed any connection to the late financier and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, calling the files a "bullshit hoax." Despite his rant, Trump couldn’t escape the uncomfortable truth that his name keeps popping up in these files. During a bizarre press conference with economist Stephen Moore, Trump tried to tout fake economic charts and job numbers that no one has ever seen before, while his administration’s handling of the Epstein scandal continues to hang over his presidency. It’s the latest in a long line of increasingly desperate attempts to shift focus away from his criminal ties. Full report: NYTimes. 3. Trump and Putin: A Meeting That Spells Disaster for Ukraine It looks like Trump is gearing up for another cozy summit with his dear friend, Vladimir Putin. As Trump continues to play both sides of the game, it's expected that he’ll remove sanctions on Russia while pretending to ramp them up on smaller, insignificant countries. This comes after his offer to "temporarily" stop bombing Ukraine, an offer that lasted for exactly 50 days. The message is clear: Putin gets a free pass, and Ukraine pays the price. This will undoubtedly be a disaster for international relations and a big win for Putin’s brutal agenda. More on this dangerous meeting: CNN. 4. The American Recession Hits Hard: Trump’s Tariffs are Taking Their Toll The consequences of Trump's reckless tariffs are starting to hit American consumers where it hurts: in their wallets. As the U.S. edges closer to a recession (or possibly even a depression), empty store shelves and rising prices are becoming a common sight. The reckless trade policies that Trump has pushed through are showing their true impact: businesses are struggling, and everyday Americans are feeling the pinch. The so-called "great economy" that Trump touts has become a farce. Get the full story: CBC 5. Russia Agrees to a US "Peace Plan" in Ukraine – Without Ukraine's Knowledge or Support In a “shocking” turn of events, Russia has agreed to a so-called "peace plan" with the U.S. that was negotiated without Ukraine’s involvement, knowledge, or consent. The deal, coordinated by Steve Witkoff and Putin, hands Russia everything it wants: Ukrainian territory, kidnapped children, and immediate sanctions relief. This fake deal was quickly dismissed by Ukraine, which laughed off the absurdity of a so-called peace agreement that ignores its sovereignty and is nothing more than a capitulation to Putin. Ukraine made it clear that it will never accept such a sham. Today’s Quote: “Leadership is the acceptance of responsibility rather than the assumption of power.” - Mark Carney Subscribe to The Daily Dean: Truth over tyranny. We are powered by YOU and work for YOU. Consider sharing this newsletter and becoming a paid subscriber. Help fuel independent journalism that defends democracy. This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.