1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries. One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot. Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel ), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture. E...
Jan 16, 2026•34 min•Ep. 644
Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You're Fired! Clay and Buck open with breaking news of another ICE-involved shooting after agents were attacked during an arrest operation. The suspe...
Jan 15, 2026•48 min
1. Situation in Iran Mass Killings & Crackdown : Thousands have reportedly been killed or abducted by the Iranian regime during protests. U.S. Response : President Trump and the White House are applying maximum pressure on Iran. Actions include canceling meetings with Iranian officials, imposing a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran, and signaling possible military intervention . Military options remain on the table; U.S. security teams are reviewing potential responses, includi...
Jan 15, 2026•16 min•Ep. 306
1. Bruce Pearl’s Career & Background Former Auburn basketball coach; won a Division II national championship and reached the Final Four twice. Unique fact: Pearl never played organized basketball (not even JV) before becoming a Division I coach. Started as a manager at Boston College, later became an assistant coach at Stanford under Tom Davis. Emphasizes making yourself valuable and being authentic as keys to success. 2. Coaching Philosophy Core principles : “Coach them as hard as you love ...
Jan 14, 2026•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 643
Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. TX Sen. Ted Cruz Joins the Show! Clay highlights encouraging data showing core inflation dropping to 2.6%, its lowest level since March 2021. The hos...
Jan 13, 2026•1 hr 3 min
1. U.S. Response to Iran Protests President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. is considering airstrikes on Iran to stop the violent crackdown on protesters. The White House emphasized that diplomacy remains the first option , but military action is on the table. Trump stated that Iran may have crossed a “red line” by killing unarmed protesters. Reports indicate massive protests in Iran , with some deaths caused by stampedes and others allegedly by government forces. Trump warned Iran that if ...
Jan 13, 2026•14 min•Ep. 304
1. Current Situation in Iran Over one million Iranians are protesting against the regime in major cities. The Iranian leadership has shut down the internet, phones, and media to suppress information and maintain control. Protesters are risking their lives; acts of defiance include burning hijabs and removing religious coverings in public. 2. Historical Context References to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the U.S. hostage crisis (444 days). Comparison of Jimmy Carter’s weak foreign policy to Bar...
Jan 12, 2026•43 min•Ep. 642
U.S. Military Action in Venezuela and Its Aftermath U.S. operation in Venezuela was not a war but a short military action to arrest Nicolás Maduro, described as an indicted narco-terrorist. This was not intended as a regime change through force but rather a law enforcement action supported by the military. After Maduro’s arrest, Delcy Rodríguez , Venezuela’s former Vice President and a staunch communist, was sworn in as interim president. The text provides extensive background on her Marxist roo...
Jan 10, 2026•30 min•Ep. 123
1. New Year’s Resolutions The first part of the discussion is lighthearted and personal. Both hosts share their resolutions for 2026: Ted Cruz’s resolutions : Lose 30 pounds (from 236 lbs to 206 lbs) through diet and exercise. Complete a “Dry January” (no alcohol for the month). Read the Bible daily throughout the year. Ben Ferguson’s resolutions : Focus on building muscle after significant weight loss (from 298 lbs to 209 lbs). Commit to reading the Bible daily alongside Cruz. They also reflect...
Jan 09, 2026•34 min•Ep. 641
Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Poor Choices and Chaos the fatal ICE-involved shooting in Minneapolis that has sparked nationwide controversy. Clay and Buck dissect the incident whe...
Jan 08, 2026•1 hr 3 min
Incident Overview ICE agents were conducting operations in Minneapolis when a woman blocked their vehicles and refused repeated commands to exit her car. She allegedly accelerated toward an ICE agent, prompting the officer to fire through the windshield, resulting in her death. The shooting is described as defensive and necessary to prevent harm to law enforcement officers. Context and Escalation The woman had been stalking and obstructing ICE agents throughout the day. It portrays her actions a...
Jan 08, 2026•20 min•Ep. 300
Cilia Flores’ Role : Far from being a symbolic first lady, Flores is a mastermind behind corruption and drug trafficking. She was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury and linked to major criminal activities, including her nephews’ cocaine smuggling. Western Hemisphere Strategy : The discussion emphasizes the Monroe Doctrine and its modern interpretation under Trump (“Donroe Doctrine”), asserting U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere to counter Russian, Chinese, and Iranian influence. Military Oper...
Jan 07, 2026•43 min•Ep. 640
Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Twist of Irony Clay and Buck dive into the fallout from the historic Delta Force raid in Venezuela, which captured Nicolás Maduro and killed 32 Cuban...
Jan 06, 2026•1 hr 4 min
Trump’s stance on Venezuela’s oil and U.S. role Trump is asserting the U.S. will “run” or strongly direct efforts in Venezuela, with U.S. oil companies going in to rebuild the country’s “broken” oil infrastructure. Trump is quoted saying elections should occur “at the right time” after stabilization. Venezuela’s oil reserves are worth trillions of dollars and recounts Trump correcting a reporter from “billion” to “trillion.” Maduro’s arrest and New York court proceedings Maduro’s first court app...
Jan 06, 2026•15 min•Ep. 298
Event Summary (WATCH: PRESIDENT TRUMP PRESS CON HERE) The U.S. military executed a highly complex and precise operation in Caracas, Venezuela, to apprehend Maduro. The mission involved over 150 aircraft, advanced coordination across multiple military branches, and cyber and space operations. The operation was completed without any American casualties, which is emphasized as a major success. Geopolitical Context Venezuela’s significance stems from its vast oil reserves (largest in the world) and ...
Jan 05, 2026•52 min•Ep. 639
Daycare & Autism Centers Fraud Numerous daycare centers and autism facilities have received millions in state funding but have no children enrolled. Example: A daycare shut down for violations reopened under a new name and continued receiving funds. Home Healthcare Fraud A single building allegedly housed 14 Somali-owned healthcare companies, all billing the state for services that were never provided. FBI raids and investigations are mentioned as evidence of the scale of fraud. Political Co...
Jan 03, 2026•33 min•Ep. 122
Government Waste and Reform Musk discusses shocking inefficiencies in the U.S. federal government, such as: Excessive software licenses and media subscriptions (often double the number of employees). Duplicate credit cards and unexplained payments. Fraudulent NGO funding (e.g., billions allegedly misused). He emphasizes that the government is essentially run by computers and that reform requires direct access to payment systems and databases. DOGE Initiative A program Musk is involved in aimed a...
Jan 02, 2026•55 min•Ep. 638
Objective of the Plan Lower healthcare costs for Americans. Extend expiring ACA subsidies temporarily while transitioning to a new system. Shift financial benefits from insurance companies to individuals. Proposed Measures Two-year extension of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (originally expanded during COVID-19). Income eligibility cap for subsidies at 700% of the federal poverty line to prevent wealthy Americans from benefiting. Minimum premium payments to ensure cost-sharing. Encourage Health Sa...
Jan 01, 2026•13 min•Ep. 294
Fraud Allegations A reported $9+ billion fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid and childcare programs. Fraud schemes allegedly involved fake daycare centers, autism centers, and home healthcare providers. Claims that funds were diverted to terrorist groups like Al Shabaab . Actors and Accountability Somali immigrants are the primary perpetrators. Minnesota politicians (e.g., Governor Tim Walz) for alleged complicity or negligence. DOJ and FBI investigations mentioned, with 98 individuals charged , 85 of...
Dec 31, 2025•34 min•Ep. 637
1. Minnesota Fraud Scandal: Minnesota lets voters 'vouch' for up to 8 others (SEE STORY HERE) Allegations of massive fraud in childcare programs and federal aid schemes in Minnesota, involving Somali-linked organizations. Governor Tim Walz for refused to apologize and instead advocating for welcoming more Somali immigrants , despite fraud concerns. Walz relies on Somali voting blocs for reelection. Details a federal crackdown : DHS, FBI, and ICE are conducting investigations, raids, and immigrat...
Dec 30, 2025•15 min•Ep. 292
Massive Fraud Allegations (WATCH NICK's VIDEO HERE!) Minnesota has spent $18 billion on Medicaid over several years, with up to $9 billion allegedly lost to fraud. Fraud reportedly involves fake daycare centers and autism centers receiving millions in state funds without providing services or having children present. Example: Facilities licensed for dozens of children but found empty, with windows blacked out and doors locked. Political Corruption Democratic politicians, including Governor Tim W...
Dec 29, 2025•47 min•Ep. 636
1. Welfare System Fraud and Structural Issues Based on an op-ed by Phil Gramm and John Early in The Wall Street Journal titled “The Biggest Fraud in Welfare” . Key points: U.S. welfare spending has skyrocketed 765% since the mid-1970s, now totaling $1.4 trillion annually . If distributed evenly among the 19.8 million families classified as poor, each would receive $71,000 per year . The government fails to count non-cash benefits (Medicaid, housing subsidies, food stamps) as income, creating a d...
Dec 27, 2025•28 min•Ep. 121
Hollywood and Media Bias : Cruz argues that the NYT list prioritizes political messaging over storytelling and entertainment. He claims the list reflects elitist, left-leaning Hollywood values and ignores popular, inspirational, or patriotic films. Alternative Film List : Cruz presents his own list of 30 films from the past 25 years that he believes are more representative of quality cinema. His selections include: Gladiator , The Patriot , A Beautiful Mind , Lord of the Rings , Saving Private R...
Dec 26, 2025•39 min•Ep. 635
1. Cultural Debate on Santa Claus UK museum’s guidance to “decolonize” Father Christmas. Santa is criticized for being “too white” and “too male.” Suggests changes like: Santa working alongside elves to show equality. Mrs. (Mother) Christmas taking a more prominent role. Removing the “naughty or nice” list, which is framed as colonial and judgmental. Links these ideas to broader critiques of patriarchy, colonialism, and Christianity , portraying them as part of a “woke” agenda. 2. Child Rescue O...
Dec 25, 2025•13 min•Ep. 288
1. Christmas and Its Religious Significance The discussion begins with warm holiday greetings and reflections on the meaning of Christmas. Emphasis is placed on celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting its spiritual importance over commercial aspects like gifts and Santa Claus. Ben and the Senator share personal traditions, such as reading Luke Chapter 2 during Christmas dinner, and discuss cultural practices (e.g., Cuban Christmas Eve celebrations with roasted pig vs. vegetarian meal...
Dec 24, 2025•35 min•Ep. 634
Golden Fleet Announcement Trump unveils plans for the construction of two massive battleships , described as: The largest ever built. “100 times more powerful” than previous Iowa-class ships. Part of a new Golden Fleet to revitalize U.S. naval power. Long-term vision: expand to 20–25 ships , boosting American shipbuilding and jobs. Emphasis on national security, military supremacy, and economic benefits . Press Conference Highlights Trump positions himself as “the most transparent president in m...
Dec 23, 2025•12 min•Ep. 286
To our listeners a GREAT THANK YOU! Without you this would not be possible. We thank EACH and every one of you for making Verdict what it is today and supporting this show. Much more to blow you away in 2026 so keep listening, and keep sharing! Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year to all of you! Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to ...
Dec 22, 2025•34 min•Ep. 633
1. Immigration and Housing Mass immigration under President Biden increased rental demand and housing prices. Trump’s deportations and border enforcement are lowering rents and home prices. Median age of first-time homebuyers is rising above 40 (highest since WWI). Wharton study: “Every 1% population increase → rents up 1%.” Recent rent declines (−1.1% YoY, −5.2% vs. 2022 peak). Tax Policy Changes (2026) Highlights upcoming measures: No tax on tips No tax on overtime No tax on Social Security fo...
Dec 20, 2025•30 min•Ep. 120
Border Security Illegal immigration reportedly dropped by 99%. $100 billion invested in border security infrastructure (wall, technology, personnel). Claimed economic benefits: reduced housing costs and rents due to deportations. Working Families Tax Cut (formerly “One Big Beautiful Bill”) Permanent extension and expansion of Trump-era tax cuts. Specific provisions: No taxes on tips, overtime, or Social Security benefits (effective 2026). Framed as the most conservative legislative victory in U....
Dec 19, 2025•36 min•Ep. 632
Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Trump IS Fixing the Economy Inflation has dropped to 2.7%—the lowest level since spring 2021. Core inflation sits at 2.6%, nearing the Federal Reserv...
Dec 18, 2025•1 hr 2 min
