Verdict with Ted Cruz

Verdict with Ted Cruz

Join Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson as they break down the most important news stories of the day and reveal what they mean for you. On "Verdict with Ted Cruz,” you will go behind the scenes of the political debates that define our country.

Iran DEAL! What’s in it? Plus Shocking Georgia Election Results

Bonus: Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Jun 16 2026

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 Don't Build By Taking 

Clay Travis discusses the surge in U.S. markets and corporate growth, particularly the historic SpaceX initial public offering, which Clay describes as the largest in U.S. history. He explains that the company rapidly reached a multi-trillion-dollar valuation, making Elon Musk the first trillionaire, and uses this milestone as a launching point for a broader discussion of capitalism, wealth creation, and economic policy differences between political parties. Clay contrasts what he characterizes as Republican pro-growth, entrepreneurial thinking with what he sees as Democratic focus on wealth redistribution, arguing that economic success stories like Musk’s represent expanding opportunity rather than inequality.

The hour dives deeply into economic philosophy and wealth creation, with Clay emphasizing the concept that wealth is not fixed but can expand through innovation and entrepreneurship. Using relatable analogies such as a growing “economic pie,” he argues that companies like SpaceX demonstrate how new value is created rather than simply redistributed, benefiting not only founders but also employees, investors, and institutions. He highlights that thousands of SpaceX workers became millionaires following the IPO, illustrating how private-sector innovation can generate widespread financial opportunity across different income levels.

Terror Attack Thwarted

Clay covers a breaking news story about a thwarted terror plot targeting the UFC 250 event held at the White House, featuring an in-depth interview with former FBI special agent Nicole Parker. She outlines how multiple suspects allegedly planned a coordinated drone and sniper attack on the high-profile event, which would have targeted thousands of attendees and potentially caused mass casualties. The plot reportedly involved explosive-laden drones, forced evacuation tactics, and secondary sniper attacks, with law enforcement intervening quickly after receiving a tip from a family member of one of the suspects. Clay and Parker discuss how this incident underscores evolving security threats, particularly the rise of drone warfare and domestic terror risks, noting that major public gatherings—such as sporting events and international tournaments—are increasingly vulnerable.

The discussion transitions into broader national security concerns, with Clay emphasizing the growing danger posed by drone technology in modern attacks. Parker explains that drones have become one of the top emerging threats, given their ability to carry explosives and bypass traditional security measures. The conversation highlights how federal agencies and law enforcement are adapting with advanced detection systems and rapid-response protocols, while also stressing the importance of vigilance at large-scale public events like the World Cup and national celebrations.

The Pioneer Spirit Saved Us

Clay provides an extended reflection on Elon Musk’s rise to becoming the world’s first trillionaire, with Clay positioning the SpaceX and Tesla founder as a symbol of American entrepreneurship, innovation, and risk-taking capitalism. He outlines Musk’s journey from early success with PayPal to reinvesting his wealth into high-risk ventures like SpaceX and Tesla, emphasizing the concept of a “builder mindset” versus a “taker mindset.” Clay argues that Musk’s willingness to risk his entire fortune to create new industries represents the core of American economic dynamism, contrasting this perspective with critics who argue for limiting wealth accumulation. He frames the conversation as a broader debate about economic growth, opportunity, and the role of innovation in expanding prosperity.

Gay Pride Resentment 

Clay talks about a Major League Baseball Pride Night dispute involving the San Francisco Giants. Clay examines the controversy surrounding players who wrote Bible verses on their uniforms in response to required Pride-themed gear, framing the issue as part of a larger debate about free speech, compelled expression, and cultural expectations in professional sports. He argues that mandating participation in symbolic messaging can create tension, particularly when it conflicts with personal or religious beliefs, and suggests that such policies may ultimately be counterproductive in shaping public opinion. 

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BONUS POD: Iran Deal Sealed, Oil Prices Reeled

  1. No Upfront Financial Incentives

    • Iran does not receive direct U.S. funds.
    • Economic benefits come only if Iran complies with the agreement.
  2. Conditional Sanctions Relief

    • Sanctions may be lifted gradually if Iran:
      • Abandons nuclear weapons development
      • Allows international verification
  3. Strategic Leverage

    • The U.S. maintains military and diplomatic power.
    • Iran must comply or receive no economic benefit.
  4. Nuclear Nonproliferation Goal

    • The deal claims to ensure Iran will not develop nuclear weapons.

🌍 Economic and Global Impact

📉 Oil Prices

  • Oil prices reportedly dropped significantly after the announcement.
  • This is linked to:
    • Reduced geopolitical risk
    • Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz (a key global oil route carrying ~20% of supply)

📈 Financial Markets

  • Stock markets surged:
    • Nasdaq: +3%
    • S&P 500: +1.7%
    • Dow Jones: +470 points
  • Investors interpreted the deal as stabilizing global conditions.

💵 Consumer Benefits

  • Reduced gas prices
  • Lower transportation and airline costs
  • Decreased inflation pressure
  • Improved household finances

📢 Media Criticism

  • U.S. media outlets
  • Spreading misinformation
  • Echoing Iranian propaganda
  • Undermining a beneficial agreement

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Elon is a Trillionaire, Capitalism is Extraordinary & Leftists Lose their Minds

1. Celebration of Elon Musk & Capitalism

  • The speakers frame Musk’s success as:
    • Proof of free-market capitalism working effectively
    • A result of innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk-taking
  • They highlight:
    • SpaceX technological achievements (reusable rockets, Starlink)
    • Tesla’s role in electric vehicles
    • Wealth generation not only for Musk but also:
      • Employees
      • Early investors
      • Workers (e.g., welders, janitors becoming millionaires)

2. Criticism of the Political Left

  • Elizabeth Warren
  • Bernie Sanders
  • Progressive politicians and media figures

The critiques include:

  • Accusations of envy and resentment toward wealth
  • Claims that leftists:
    • Want to tax or confiscate wealth
    • Oppose individual success
    • Promote government control over markets

3. Defense of Wealth Inequality

  • Large fortunes (like Musk’s) are justified because they:
    • Result from voluntary market transactions
    • Deliver useful products and services
  • Billionaires are portrayed as:
    • Benefiting society through innovation
    • Creating jobs and economic growth

4. Innovation & Technological Progress

The document highlights Musk’s projects as transformative:

  • SpaceX → space exploration, Mars colonization vision
  • Starlink → global internet access
  • Tesla → electric vehicles
  • Boring Company → infrastructure innovation

5. Political Warning / Prediction

The speakers express concern that:

  • If left-leaning politicians gain power, they may:
    • Target Musk and his companies
    • Increase regulation and taxation
    • Use government agencies against private enterprise

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 follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening

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Middle East Talks Teeter on the Brink, Waltz plays Spy Games in Minnesota & the Shocking Search for Missing Migrant Kids Week In Review

1. 🇮🇷 Iran, Israel, and U.S. Foreign Policy

  • There were escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran, including missile exchanges and Israeli airstrikes.
  • U.S. involvement:
    • The U.S. was not directly involved in strikes.
    • President Trump is portrayed as attempting to control escalation while negotiating a deal.
      • Preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
      • Criticism of previous administrations (Obama/Biden) for being too lenient.

2. 🏛️ Minnesota Whistleblower and Fraud Allegations

    • Officials in Minnesota (including Governor Tim Walz’s administration) ignored or covered up fraud in social programs.
    • Whistleblowers were allegedly:
      • Intimidated
      • Monitored
      • Investigated by private investigators
      • There is:
      • Systematic fraud
      • Government retaliation against employees who reported misconduct

3. 👶 Missing Migrant Children at the U.S. Border

    • Hundreds of thousands of migrant children were lost or unaccounted for during the Biden administration.
    • Many were placed with unverified sponsors.
      • Some children were subjected to trafficking, forced labor, or abuse.
      • The Trump administration is now recovering these children (claims ~146,000 found).
  • Connecting this issue to broader points on immigration policies and “open borders.”

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 follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening

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ActBlue Pleads the Fifth on Hiding Foreign Campaign Donations, SPLC Dodges on Funding the KKK & DHS Finds 146,000 Missing Children

1. ActBlue Investigation Allegations

  • ActBlue is a major Democratic fundraising platform.
    • The CEO pleaded the Fifth Amendment repeatedly during congressional testimony.
    • There are allegations of illegal foreign donations, including possible contributions from foreign nationals.
    • Congressional Republicans are investigating whether ActBlue:
      • Allowed foreign donations
      • Misled Congress
      • Failed to implement fraud safeguards

2. Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) Controversy

    • Being investigated for funding extremist groups (including the KKK) via informants.
    • Allowing funds to allegedly support activities like cross-burning (as claimed in DOJ allegations).
  • The CEO is described as evasive during testimony, deferring to legal proceedings.
  • Includes a segment about questioning the CEO on a politician with a Nazi tattoo.

3. Missing Migrant Children & Immigration Policy

  • the Biden administration:
    • Lost track of hundreds of thousands of migrant children.
    • Failed to vet sponsors receiving children.
      • Many children were subjected to abuse, forced labor, or trafficking.
      • The Trump administration has allegedly recovered 146,000+ children.
  • Democratic immigration policies are enabling harm.
  • Lists votes where Democrats allegedly opposed deportation policies for certain offenders.
  • Used to argue Democrats are:
    • Soft on immigration enforcement
    • Prioritizing undocumented immigrants over public safety

4. “Green New Deal” / Government Funding Criticism

  • Discusses Department of the Interior actions to cut funding to:
    • Environmental groups
    • DEI-related programs
  • Claims:
    • Democrats funnel taxpayer money to allied nonprofits
    • These groups then advance political agendas
  • Describes this as corruption or misuse of funds

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 follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening

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Bonus: Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Jun 11 2026

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.

Sports Life Lessons  

Buck Sexton celebrates the New York Knicks’ dramatic 29-point comeback victory, described as one of the most remarkable in NBA Finals history. Buck highlights the scale of the comeback, noting that teams down by 20+ points rarely win in postseason play, which amplifies the significance of the Knicks’ performance. The discussion expands beyond sports into a broader sports culture and societal impact narrative, with Buck emphasizing how the win has unified New York City and captured national attention, illustrating the ability of major sporting events to create shared cultural moments and civic pride. At the same time, he criticizes instances of fan misconduct, including destructive celebrations and harassment of opposing teams, calling for sportsmanship, civility, and respect in fan behavior.

Buck praised Knicks star Jalen Brunson for his leadership, humility, and professionalism. Buck presents Brunson as a model example of positive role models in professional sports, highlighting his “clutch” performance, team-first attitude, and composure under pressure. Brunson’s postgame remarks and actions—such as acknowledging a Make-A-Wish recipient—are used to underscore themes of character, leadership, and responsibility in public figures, reinforcing a broader discussion about the need for admirable role models in modern culture.

The Black Culture Problem

An interview with Turning Point USA reporter Savanah Hernandez, who covered the Karmelo Anthony murder trial, which resulted in a guilty verdict and a 35-year prison sentence. Hernandez provides detailed firsthand reporting on the courtroom environment, strict security measures, and intense public interest, noting that access to the trial was limited and highly competitive, with spectators lining up early each day. The hosts highlight how the case became a nationally discussed story, not only because of the crime itself but also due to the public reaction and broader cultural implications.

A central theme throughout Hour 2 is the behavior and messaging of Anthony’s supporters outside the courthouse, who were described as highly vocal and, at times, confrontational. The conversation centers on reports of hostility toward journalists and opposing demonstrators, with the hosts framing these interactions as part of a larger issue involving media distrust, activism, and racial narratives in high-profile legal cases. According to the discussion, many supporters appeared less focused on trial evidence and more on identity-based arguments, which the hosts argue contributed to a distorted public understanding of the case.

The Boy Who Cried Deal in Iran

Buck reports breaking news on U.S.–Iran relations and military activity. Buck provides real-time commentary on President Donald Trump’s announcement that additional military strikes on Iran were initially planned but then suddenly canceled amid reports of a diplomatic breakthrough. The show captures the fluid nature of the situation, with updates coming in live as negotiations appear to reach a critical stage.

This segment focuses on foreign policy, national security, and Middle East geopolitics, with Buck analyzing the implications of a potential agreement involving multiple regional and global actors. He underscores that while the reported deal could represent a major strategic success, its true impact will depend on whether it includes clear enforcement mechanisms and verifiable limits on Iran’s capabilities. The discussion reflects skepticism about long-term outcomes, with concerns raised about whether Iran will adhere to any agreement and whether the deal could simply delay future conflict.

There's No Fraud Data in CA

An interview with political strategist Ryan Girdusky, host of It's a Numbers Game podcast in the Clay and Buck podcast network. Buck and Ryan examine the U.S. Senate race in Maine, where Republicans and Democrats are closely watching a competitive contest. Girdusky provides data-driven political forecasting, explaining how incumbent strength, polling trends, and shifting voter sentiment make the race highly competitive despite controversies surrounding the Democratic candidate. A key theme is how modern political campaigns are influenced less by scandal and more by electability, with discussion highlighting that controversial candidates can remain viable if party leadership believes the

BONUS POD: WH Shakes Up Immigration Policy & 5% of UN Workforce under possible Investigation

1. Immigration Green Card Policy Debate

   There is a new policy requiring some green card applicants to apply from abroad.

Administration View:

  • Closes loopholes
  • Restores intended immigration system structure

Criticism:

  • Could:
    • Separate families
    • Disrupt jobs
    • Create long delays

2. Allegations Against UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency)

  • Over 100 UNRWA employees have been referred for suspension or investigation for ties to Hamas, including alleged participation in the October 7 attacks in Israel.
    • Some employees (teachers, principals, administrators) were allegedly active members of Hamas or held military roles.
    • U.S. taxpayer money (via aid funding) indirectly supported these individuals.
      • Up to 1,500 UNRWA personnel may be under investigation for connections to Hamas.
      • This represents roughly 5% of the agency’s workforce (using an estimated total of 30,000 staff).

✅ Political Perspective

    • Calls to defund or dismantle UNRWA.
    • Criticism of government oversight and foreign aid spending.
    • U.S. politicians advocating sanctions or tougher actions.

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Historic Drone Rescue of American Soldiers Shot Down in Iran, plus Minnesota Dems Hired Private Investigators to Target Fraud Whistleblowers

1. Drone Rescue of U.S. Soldiers in Iran

    • American soldiers being shot down or stranded in Iran
    • A rescue mission using drones, possibly highlighting advanced military technology
  • The event is historic:
    • A first-of-its-kind use of drones in rescue operations, built in Texas
    • Or a significant geopolitical or military milestone

2. Minnesota Democrats & Private Investigators

    • Allegations that Minnesota Democratic figures (or groups) hired private investigators
    • The purpose: allegedly targeting fraud whistleblowers
      • Descriptions of fraud allegations (possibly in government programs or funding)
      • Claims of retaliation against whistleblowers
      • Political framing or criticism of one party’s actions

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 follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening

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Bonus: Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Jun 9 2026

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.

Republicans Buy Sneakers Too

Clay Travis and Buck Sexton talk about President Donald Trump’s appearance at Madison Square Garden during a New York Knicks game, which Clay and Buck frame as a culturally significant moment in the intersection of sports, politics, and media narratives. They analyze reactions from fans, commentary from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and broader questions about the NBA’s political activism, arguing that the league may be shifting away from its previously “woke” positioning. The discussion expands into a broader critique of politics in sports, media bias, and public reactions to Trump as a New York figure.

Could Steve Hilton Win?

Steve Hilton joins the show to provide a detailed update on the California gubernatorial primary, explaining that he is highly confident of securing a top-two finish and advancing to the general election, even as official results remain delayed due to prolonged vote counting across the state. A major focus is the extended timeline for ballot processing in California, with Hilton criticizing the system as inefficient and mismanaged, particularly highlighting rules that allow ballots without clear postmarks to be accepted if they include handwritten dates. The conversation frames these practices as contributing to widespread skepticism around election transparency and trust in the vote-counting process.

The discussion then shifts to a key voter ID ballot initiative in California, which Hilton says has strong public support and could be a near-term solution to many of the concerns being raised. The proposal would require government-issued identification for voting, whether in person or by mail, reducing reliance on signature verification processes that currently slow down vote counting. Clay and Buck strongly endorse voter ID laws, arguing they are consistent with requirements for other constitutional rights and would improve election confidence. They also debate the role of absentee and mail-in voting more broadly, suggesting that widespread early in-person voting could replace much of the current mail-based system.

Election Integrity

Clay and Buck explore campaign spending dynamics, particularly the failure of billionaire Tom Steyer to secure a top-two finish in California despite massive financial investment. This leads to a broader point about the limits of political advertising, with the hosts arguing that even heavy spending cannot overcome weak voter appeal. They also revisit recent national campaigns, suggesting that increased public exposure can sometimes hurt candidates rather than help them.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville

Clay and Buck react to breaking reports involving Iran and U.S. military tensions, after news surfaces that an American Apache helicopter may have been shot down. The hosts emphasize that President Donald Trump has indicated a potential U.S. response, pending investigation into whether the incident was hostile action, mechanical failure, or friendly fire. Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville joins the show to weigh in on the escalating situation, warning that if Iran was responsible, consequences are likely. This segment highlights broader U.S.-Iran geopolitical tensions and national security concerns, underscoring the potential for rapid escalation in the Middle East.

The conversation with Senator Tuberville shifts into 2026 midterm election outlook and Senate control, where he predicts Republicans are likely to maintain their majority but expresses frustration with stalled legislative priorities. A major focus is the SAVE America Act and election security legislation, with Tuberville criticizing fellow Republicans who opposed advancing the bill. He emphasizes concerns about voter fraud, election integrity, and inconsistent vote-counting standards across states, arguing that federal action is necessary to ensure confidence in U.S. elections. The discussion also dives into the ongoing debate about the Senate filibuster, with Tuberville and the hosts suggesting Democrats would eliminate it if they regain power, raising stakes for current legislative battles.

They also touch on college sports controversies and NIL-era challenges, as Tuberville reacts to a controversial court ruling allowing a college quarterback accused of gambling violations to continue playing. He argues that the decision reflects a broader erosion of accountability in college athletics, pointing to issues like sports betting, t