Episoder
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I had a profound conversation with Steve Schmidt, the founder of “The Warning” and a seasoned veteran of numerous high-profile campaigns. We delve into the intricacies of Donald Trump's hush money trial and its potential impact on the 2024 presidential race.
Our wide-ranging conversation covers Steve's invaluable assessment of Trump's electoral chances, the pivotal role of the MAGA propaganda ecosystem, and the pressing challenges facing Joe Biden. Steve's analysis of who will win in November and the hush money trial is a must-listen. He also shares advice for Joe Biden on making a compelling case for his leadership.
I got to know Steve during the 2008 election, and I deeply respect his political acumen and unwavering, steadfast commitment to democratic principles. He also discusses standing up for our freedoms, drawing inspiration from Pope John Paul II's courageous calls to "be not afraid."
No matter your political persuasion, Steve's trenchant analysis is essential listening for anyone who cares about our country's future. I hope you'll check out the full interview. If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe to Steve’s substack,
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Introduction
- Tonight's episode delves into the current turmoil surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- We explore the internal divisions within his war cabinet, the public's growing dissent, and the Israeli army's retreat amid threats of an offensive.
The Gaza Retreat
- The sudden withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Gaza has raised questions about the shift in the conflict's dynamics.
- Families return to their devastated homes in Gaza, facing the overwhelming task of rebuilding.
The World Central Kitchen Incident
- The killing of 7 aid workers by the IDF has sparked significant controversy and backlash against Netanyahu.
- The IDF's public apology marked a turning point, leading to a humanitarian aid influx and hostage negotiations.
Netanyahu's Controversial Leadership
- Netanyahu's long tenure as Prime Minister and his complex relationship with global powers, including Russia and China, are scrutinized.
- His interactions with the Chabad movement and the prophecy of being the last Prime Minister before the Messiah are discussed.
Guest Appearance
- Rick Petrie, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an energy sector expert, joins the conversation to provide insight into the broader implications of the conflict.
Summary
- The episode examines Netanyahu's actions and the delayed military response to the Hamas attack, the government's dysfunction, and the potential shift in global power dynamics if Netanyahu maintains control.
Conclusion
- The stakes are high not only for Israelis and Gazans but for the global order of human rights, emphasizing the need for an end to the conflict.
Support
- Listeners are invited to support the programming by subscribing on Substack or Patreon.
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Join us on "Narativ with Zev Shalev" as we navigate the complexities of Netanyahu's private war and its impact on the global stage.
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Manglende episoder?
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Join @ZevShalev as he exposes the dire state of our democracy in 2024. With Trump leading in crucial swing states and the media fixated on frivolous legal dramas, the real threats to our nation are being ignored.
Zev delves into the shocking polling numbers, the potential October surprises, and the foreign influences shaping our election. He issues an urgent call to action: turn off the courtroom circus and start spreading the word about the importance of democracy.
The countdown to November 5th has begun, and the future of the United States hangs in the balance. You can listen to the truth they don't want you to know.
Hungry, Anyone?
On a deliciously unrelated note, have you met COOKUNITY? They craft chef-prepared, restaurant-quality meals delivered right to your doorstep every week. The difference is in the chef's touch. For this week only, Narativ viewers can enjoy 50% off their first week of meals by following this link: cookunity.com/reach. You can also use the code REACH as the checkout code. Bon appétit!
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Join us tonight on Narativ with Zev Shalev as we delve into the disturbing reality of Russia's sham presidential election and Vladimir Putin's far-reaching influence on American politics and society. We'll examine how Putin's asymmetrical attack on the United States has allowed Russia to capture key power positions, infiltrate institutions, and potentially pave the way for another Donald Trump presidency.
Our guest, Olga Lautman, a Senior Fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis and an expert on Russian intelligence operations, will help us unpack the complex web of connections between Trump, his associates, and Russian interests.
We'll discuss the GOP's continued allegiance to Trump, as evidenced by the appointment of Christina Bobb, a prominent election denier, to oversee the party's "election integrity" operations. We'll also explore how Putin's influence extends beyond politics, reaching into media outlets, social media platforms, religious organizations, and even the FBI and Department of Justice.
As we confront the possibility of a Trump presidency in 2024 and the potential consequences for human rights, global stability, and American democracy, it's crucial that we remain vigilant in exposing these connections and working to safeguard our democratic institutions.
Tune in tonight for this critical conversation and discover the shocking extent of Putin's influence on American politics and society. The future of our nation hangs in the balance. #Narativ #ZevShalev #RussianInterference #Trump2024 #PutinsPuppet
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Join us as we delve into the disturbing connections between House Speaker Mike Johnson and a Russian intelligence operation that threatens the very foundation of American democracy. With the 2024 elections on the horizon and Donald Trump as the presumptive GOP nominee, the stakes have never been higher.
Key points from the episode:
Mike Johnson's role in halting crucial military aid to Ukraine has strained relationships with Ukrainian President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska.
The revelation of Johnson's decades-long support for Russia's anti-LGBTQ policies, including his introduction of the "Marriage and Conscience Act" in Louisiana, bears striking similarities to Russia's "Anti-Propaganda Law."
The World Congress of Families (WCF), an international conservative Christian organization with close ties to Russia, has been a nexus for anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion advocacy, aligning closely with Russian social policy.
Johnson's potential role in the January 6th insurrection and the recent Supreme Court decision that could secure his position as Speaker of the House set the stage for a more severe constitutional crisis.
The growing evidence of Russian influence within the GOP and the potential consequences of having a majority party, Speaker, and President-elect beholden to Vladimir Putin.
Shalev emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability from Mike Johnson regarding his ties to Russian oligarchs and the WCF. He also calls on listeners to stay informed, engaged, and proactive in safeguarding American democracy by subscribing to Narativ, sharing the episode, and voting in the upcoming elections.
This groundbreaking investigation is made possible by the support of viewers through platforms like Substack, Patreon, and YouTube. By subscribing and donating, audiences can help ensure that Narativ continues its mission to expose the truth and defend democracy against internal and external threats.
Stay tuned for more hard-hitting investigations from Zev Shalev and the Narativ team, who are working tirelessly to shed light on the forces undermining American democracy in the run-up to the crucial 2024 elections.
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In my latest podcast episode, I had former Congressman Denver Riggleman on to discuss the ongoing threats of Russian interference in the 2024 presidential election. Some key takeaways:
Alexander Smirnov, a Russian intelligence asset, was the main source behind false allegations about Hunter Biden taking bribes. This shows how Russian disinformation can infiltrate partisan investigations.
An FBI whistleblower has claimed confidential informants were used to spread disinformation about the Bidens to the Trump administration. This illustrates problems with the FBI's handling of foreign interference cases.
Speaker Mike Johnson has disturbing connections to Putin's inner circle. His refusal to provide military aid to Ukraine raises questions about whether he is acting in America's interests.
The Hunter Biden laptop story shows patterns of Russian interference across the 2016, 2020, and now 2024 elections that Republicans like Jim Jordan fail to acknowledge.
Polling shows Trump retains an extremely loyal base that is unlikely to fracture before 2024. Issues like abortion rights could potentially swing some Republican women to Biden.
A Trump re-election in 2024 raises concerns about retaliation, political violence, chaos, and damage to democracy. October surprises internationally could also impact the outcome.
I discuss all of these issues and more with Denver Riggleman, who brings expertise from serving on the January 6th Committee. With Russian threats increasing as we approach 2024, it's an important episode to understand the forces that still endanger American democracy. Please have a listen!
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This episode of the Narativ podcast focuses on the breaking news that Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny has been murdered, presumably by Vladimir Putin. Navalny's widow, Yuliya Navalnaya, spoke at the Munich Security Conference shortly after his death, calling for Putin and his regime to face justice.
Key Topics Discussed:
Yuliya Navalnaya's emotional speech at the Munich Security Conference, saying Putin should be punished for Navalny's murder
Putin's obsession with interfering in US politics to get Trump elected again in 2024
How the timing of Navalny's murder was meant to send a message to NATO right before the Munich Conference
Putin lying about supporting Biden for president as more disinformation
Analysis of how GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson's actions align with Putin's interests regarding Ukraine aid
Discussion of how the enemies of democracy like Putin seem to be coordinating to weaken American power
A look ahead at how conflict hotspots like Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel could impact the 2024 election
Guest:
Rick Petrie from the Council on Foreign Relations provides expert analysis on geopolitics and Vladimir Putin's motives.
Key Quotes:
"It's further proof that this is a very hard dictatorial regime...They have taken the opportunity to murder someone who is probably the most effective opposition spokesperson and revealer of Putin's nepotism and corruption in a generation."
"Ukraine has been the bellwether for Trump and his fealty towards Putin...And he's still very desperate to deliver on that. And it's very dangerous for us as a country, for NATO as an alliance, and for Western democracy."
Conclusion:
This sobering episode focused on Putin's tyranny domestically and in trying to influence world affairs. The murder of Navalny represents a significant escalation and assault on voices of dissent and democracy advocates in Russia. The discussion highlights why opposing Putin's aggression must be a top priority as America heads into the 2024 election.
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Tristan Snell, former Assistant Attorney General for New York State, discusses various legal cases linked to ex-president Donald Trump, primarily the one concerning Trump's election interference and the possible impacts on the forthcoming election. Eagerly awaited cases may not be decided upon until after Election Day. Hence, the voters could be voting without knowing the truth about Trump. Snell shares his comprehensive analysis of how the justice system's delay strategies and cable news also play roles in this process. He also discusses civil trials optimism and the potential implications of Trump's possible conviction. Furthermore, Snell reflects on the lessons from his book 'Taking Down Trump,' which addresses how to prosecute Trump effectively based on his experiences in the Trump University case.
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Over 300 pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation have been introduced in state legislatures across the country so far this year, in what advocates are calling an unprecedented assault on transgender rights.
The majority of bills specifically target transgender individuals, ranging from healthcare restrictions to limits on school sports participation. The volume has skyrocketed compared to previous years, with 2023 on track to exceed 2022's record number of anti-trans bills.
“This is not regular politics — it’s a moral panic,” said journalist Erin Reed, who tracks anti-LGBTQ legislation extensively. “It’s gone beyond politicking and is now basically whatever [conservatives] can use to rally their base.”
Many bills have origins in model legislation pushed by national conservative groups. The Heritage Foundation's “Project 2025” blueprint lays out plans to rescind LGBTQ protections over the next three years, establishing what critics call a path toward authoritarian rule. Efforts span from empowering a right-wing federal workforce to utilizing agencies like the CDC for invasive data collection on sexuality.
The recent bills rely largely on unfounded claims that inclusive policies endanger cisgender students and undermine parental rights. Alabama, Arizona, and other states target healthcare coverage for transition-related care for minors even as major medical associations endorse affirming care.
Experts widely discredit arguments that acknowledging young transgender students’ identities or respecting pronouns can influence peers’ orientations. Similarly, sports participation bans counter research showing trans athletes have no consistent performance advantages in their gender category after beginning hormones, though schemes differ.
Reed warned that families are already being forced to “flee their homes or hide just to get healthcare” while awaiting legal challenges against healthcare restrictions. While some Senate Democrats have spoken against anti-LGBTQ measures, the White House response remains muted to date. With administrations empowered to interpret sex protections, legislative defeats may not spell the end as court battles loom ahead.
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This episode revisits one of the most impactful exposés we’ve ever done on The Narativ – confirming Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s industrial-scale blackmail operation as assets of Israeli and Russian intelligence. The goal was the mass compromise of American politicians and public figures to control narratives and policies for Israel and Russia’s benefit. Analysis of Epstein’s flight logs underlines the central role of both countries, with 11 flights each recorded to Moscow/St. Petersburg and Tel Aviv.
We also examine key differences between Trump’s willing partnership with Epstein versus Clinton's seemingly being targeted for compromise. And explore how the Republican party increasingly resembles a Kremlin-controlled entity, likely due to the damaging information Russia holds on its members.
We must most urgently recognize that democracy remains under concerted attack by sophisticated global forces, just as in 2016-2020. As 2024 approaches, this episode is a stark reminder that we never fully emerged victorious from that information war, making the coming election all the more pivotal. America’s enemies are still circling for the kill shot against our democratic system. We ignore that stark reality at our own peril.
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Exclusive: Two MPS charged with high treason in Ukraine; Hunter laptop was really data distributed by Giuliani and Bannon, and Mike Johnson's Russian benefactor is Putin's arms supplier.
The impeachment proceedings against President Biden that are now ramping up in the House have an alarming origin story - a network of Russian spies.
Over the last several years, Russian intelligence agencies like the GRU have been working diligently behind the scenes to craft a narrative about supposed Biden family corruption in Ukraine. Their goal? To damage Biden's presidency and tilt the scales toward a Trump return to power in 2024.
Two Ukrainian members of parliament, Andrei Derkach and Oleksandr Dubinsky, were recently arrested on treason charges for running a multi-million dollar election interference campaign to spread allegations about the Bidens on Russia's behalf. Both men met with Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani in 2019 to push claims about Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings.
Yet the GOP is still basing its impeachment push on the very same Russian-backed Hunter Biden narrative. They continue lying about "evidence" of Biden wrongdoing that does not actually exist. And it's working - polls find a majority of Americans now wrongly think Biden did something illegal.
But here's the kicker: The so-called "laptop" full of Hunter Biden's emails is likely just a sophisticated hack of his iCloud account. Both Giuliani and Steve Bannon disseminated hacked data that intelligence experts believe originated from Russian intelligence to discredit the Bidens.
In other words, impeachment is being fueled entirely by a years-long Russian spy plot. Yet Republicans continue perpetuating this propaganda operation because it serves their political interests, no matter the damage done to America's democracy.
The man now pushing impeachment in the House, new Speaker Mike Johnson, has suspicious ties to Russia himself. Johnson accepted campaign donations from Russian oligarch Konstantin Nikolayev, who supplies weapons for Russia's invasion of Ukraine and previously handled exposed Russian spy Maria Butina in the U.S.
Johnson took Russian money even while accusing Democrats of being soft on Russia. His former ally Liz Cheney labeled him "a collaborator" for his continued perpetuation of Trump's election lies after Jan. 6th. Now we know he's gotten in bed with Kremlin-connected Russians too.
By pursuing impeachment based on Russian disinformation, Johnson is serving Putin's interests - not America's. He is undermining our democracy and aiding election interference yet again. The presence of this kind of Russian "collaborator" at the very top ranks of U.S. power is a threat unlike we've ever seen.
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This podcast episode originally aired May 3 2022, the same day as the leak of a controversial Supreme Court opinion that indicated Roe v. Wade would soon be overturned.
Before Leonard Leo was a household name, he was on Narativ’s radar and he became the main focus of our coverage the day a Supreme Court opinion leak about Roe v. Wade would be overturned, eliminating federal abortion rights protections.
Eric Garland was my guest that day. We discussed the implications of this bombshell and delve into the decades-long effort by conservatives to reshape the judiciary and set the stage for such a reversal. Central to this strategy has been Leonard Leo, a religiously-motivated lawyer and operative embedded in powerful legal networks like the Federalist Society and the Council for National Policy.
Leonard Leo's Influence
Though not a high-profile public figure, Leonard Leo has played an outsized role coordinating the conservative legal movement's long term plans. Guided by extreme Catholic notions of “natural law,” Leo leveraged his positions within the Federalist Society, the Council for National Policy, and other networks to place ideological allies in key positions. He is also an influential member of the secretive, ultra-conservative Catholic order the Knights of Malta, which bridges his advocacy with international power centers in the Vatican and beyond. Most notably, Leo facilitated over $30 million dollars in Koch brothers donations to reshape George Mason University's law school using his influence on their board. The ultimate goal was to groom Supreme Court justices sympathetic to rolling back liberal decisions on issues like abortion rights. Justices Gorsuch, Kavanaugh and Barrett were all vetted and promoted by Leo before their controversial nominations and confirmations.
Response to Roe v. Wade Leak
The hosts react to realization of Leo’s goal to overturn Roe v. Wade with deep concern regarding legitimacy, given foreign meddling in recent appointments and new evidence indicating corporate capture of the judicial nomination process. More broadly, this episode encapsulates long building progressive fears that a hijacked Supreme Court could severely erode civil rights protections, privacy rights, and other pillars of equitable governance in America, jeopardizing stability and social cohesion. However, the hosts ultimately express hope that lawful accountability and democratic participation can restore rule of law and integrity to the Republic.
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Secretary of State Antony Blinken quietly slipped into Israel on Thursday for meetings in Ramallah and Jerusalem to further a bold proposal that may result in a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. Blinken believes the ongoing hostage releases and ceasefire talks provide a diplomatic opening for a long-lasting peace.
Blinken outlined his proposal in a speech Thursday night.
Israel must improve the lives of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza “in immediate, tangible ways.”
Israel must provide Palestinians with a credible path toward statehood.
The US will propose “practical steps” that can be taken to this end.
A “revitalized” Palestinian Authority will govern a united West Bank and Gaza.
The government in Ramallah must reform, end corruption, and promote a free press.
My guest on this week’s podcast is investment banker and Middle-East policy expert Rick Petree. His diplomatic roots, operational experience, and nuanced knowledge make him an ideal expert to assess Blinken’s gambit.
As Rick and I were speaking, the final 8 hostages to be released by Hamas under the 4-day ceasefire - were in transit back home to Israel after 55 days in captivity. 120 Israelis have been freed, 75 remain in captivity.
We discuss how the crisis presents an opportunity for peace and how both Palestinian and Israeli public opinion seem increasingly receptive to dialogue and compromise after decades of failed security doctrines.
Furthermore, the potential spoils of vast offshore gas reserves discovered between Israel and Gaza suggest possible shared prosperity if political cooperation can be achieved.
No naïve optimism is warranted. And yet Blinken’s maneuverings hint that behind the hostage tragedy, economic incentives, and weariness of violence, a cautious hope burns for progress between historic enemies. The ingredients for peace may be aligning if key leaders can seize the moment.
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BREAKING: The House will hold a third vote this week to expel Congressman George Santos in the wake of a damning ethics report accusing him of brazen fraud and theft. Santos remains defiant, saying: "If they want to send me home...God bless their hearts."
Tonight, we unpack the shadowy world of George Santos. This episode has been digitally re-edited and remastered.
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There are many red flags that Santos could be a foreign spy. His lies suggest he's hiding his true identity. Spies often have criminal histories to help them operate - Santos is accused of fraud in Brazil and running a Ponzi scheme in the U.S. He's fabricated his entire background - no one knows where he was really educated. He has suspicious foreign funding ties to a Russian oligarch close to Putin. The layers of deception raise spy suspicions.
George Santos: A Trump Fanatic
Santos is cut from Trump's cloth - an obnoxious superfan. He outrageously claimed his house was ransacked just for attending a Trump party. Like Trump, he's an audacious liar.
George Santos: A Hidden Drag Queen?
There's evidence Santos once performed in drag as "Kitara Ravash" in Brazil under his alias "Anthony Devolder." As Republicans attack drag events, the irony of Santos potentially being a drag queen is striking.
The Russian Oligarch Backing George Santos
Santos has funding ties to sanctioned Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg, who operates as a Putin delegate and allegedly runs an Israeli-Russian spying operation. Vekselberg's cousin Andrew Intrater, representing his business interests, donated thousands to Santos and groups supporting his Congressional bid.
The GOP Leadership's Support for George Santos
Despite his outrageous lies, GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy has refused calls to expel Santos, valuing his one-vote majority over integrity. But damning new allegations make his removal inevitable.
Conclusion
The questions surrounding Santos and his foreign backers raise serious unanswered questions about threats to national security. His imminent expulsion comes as no surprise.
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Attorney John Anthony Castro is on a bold mission that could rock American politics - using an obscure constitutional clause to legally disqualify Donald Trump from running for president in 2024.
Castro's ingenious strategy centers on the 14th Amendment's anti-insurrection section, which bars anyone involved in rebellion against the U.S. from holding office. His argument: Trump's role in inciting the January 6th Capitol attack crosses that line.
But this unprecedented legal gambit faces major hurdles. Courts have dismissed similar voter-driven lawsuits for lack of "standing." As a direct Trump opponent, Castro asserts his injury gives him grounds to sue.
If the case proceeds, the next question is whether the clause is "self-executing" - enforceable without further congressional action. A ruling in Castro's favor could be a massive leap toward barring Trump's candidacy.
Yet the most significant obstacle may be proving an actual "insurrection" occurred on January 6th - a hotly disputed issue with massive political stakes.
Win or lose, Castro's lawsuit puts a little-known constitutional provision under a glaring spotlight. By challenging Trump, he gained media attention for his future presidential aspirations.
The outcome of this bold legal fight is uncertain. But one thing is clear - Castro's ingenious move could set a precedent with lasting effects on American politics and elections. His quest marks an unprecedented attempt to employ the courts to reshape the political landscape.
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Originally Aired: November 6
This episode has been digitally remastered in high definition and completely re-edited to enhance the viewer experience. Our valued patrons are receiving a 7-day early release of this content as an added value for supporting Narativ's productions. Thank you!
This episode focuses on exploring the rising influence of Christian nationalism in America and its potential connection to China. The hosts discuss the relationships of key figures such as Ivanka Trump, Wendy Deng Murdoch, Rupert Murdoch, and Jared Kushner. They also elaborate on the potential roles played by proxies such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, Israel, the UAE, and Egypt. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing the influence of individuals like Michael Flynn and Steve Bannon, as well as organizations such as the Federalist Society and Rule of Law Foundation. The episode concludes with a warning about the crucial upcoming elections and the imperative to resist potential outside influences threatening America's democracy.
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Speaker Mike Johnson has concerning connections to Russia that raise national security questions as he pushes for President Biden's impeachment.
Johnson has long received donations from American Ethane, a company run by two Russians with direct Kremlin ties. American Ethane bankrolled Johnson for years to grease the wheels on getting approval for a proposed ethane terminal in Louisiana. Interestingly, while the firm is Russian-owned and named American Ethane, the exports were all destined for China.
Johnson's anti-LGBTQ advocacy also aligns closely with Russia's global anti-gay agenda. He has compared homosexuality to pedophilia and called it dangerous. His wife runs a Christian counseling service equating homosexuality with bestiality. In the 2000s, Johnson provided legal advice to Exodus International, a harmful conversion therapy group, as well as advocacy for an anti-gay "Day of Truth" in schools. At the time, Johnson worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, which connects him to Russia's representative at the anti-LGBTQ World Congress of Families. The WCF authored Russia's severe anti-gay propaganda law.
Johnson's personal life also raises questions. He adopted a black son when he was 25, two years before meeting his wife. Yet few photos exist of Johnson's adopted son with the rest of the family. Johnson has been evasive in providing details around the adoption. In 2010, Johnson was dean of a failed Baptist law school embroiled in fundraising and child abuse scandals, which he conveniently omits from his resume.
With an impeachment of President Biden looming, Moscow may be applying pressure on Johnson through compromising materials obtained over years of Russian connections. The stakes could not be higher to determine whether the Kremlin is influencing the impeachment process through Speaker Johnson.
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She is one of Israel’s leading political commentators and her interview was as poignant as it was politically prescient. Thank you, Tal.Shalev (no relation) of Walla! News, Please follow her work @talshalev1
In this episode, chief political correspondent Tal Shalev provides a sobering view from Tel Aviv on the crisis in Israel and Gaza. She explains how the October 7th attacks inflicted severe trauma on Israelis, leaving the country grief-stricken and insecure.
Shalev discusses the deteriorating humanitarian emergency unfolding in Gaza as Israel's ground offensive continues. She notes Israel is unwilling to open humanitarian corridors without the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Shalev argues Netanyahu has failed to take responsibility for security failures leading up to the October 7th attack. She states he is clinging to power but faces pressure from the Biden administration to resign.
Moreover, Shalev expresses deep concern about the disturbing global backlash against Jews, with rising antisemitism bringing back collective traumas. She argues Western societies must unequivocally condemn the evil of Hamas’ actions.
In terms of solutions, Shalev states a prisoner swap to free hostages could happen but would be politically difficult for Netanyahu. She contends extensive military action is needed to degrade Hamas’ capabilities. Shalev says a diplomatic push led by the US and Arab states will be required to restore some stability.
Overall, Shalev offers a sobering inside view of the trauma, pain and complexity of the crisis confronting Israel. She makes a powerful case that firm military resolve combined with international diplomacy is critical to containing the threat from Hamas.
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In this episode, former GOP Congressman Denver Riggleman joins to discuss the concerning election of far-right Republican Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House. Riggleman explains how Johnson's extreme views and embrace of election conspiracy theories pose a real "danger to democracy" given his position third in line to the presidency.
Riggleman provides background on Johnson's surprise victory for Speaker, noting his "far, far, far right" stances and record promoting election fraud claims and QAnon conspiracies. He warns there is now a severe risk of Biden's impeachment efforts and undermining support for Ukraine under Johnson's leadership.
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Drawing on his investigative work for the January 6th committee, Riggleman reveals stunning insights from Mark Meadows' texts, which he argues provided a "roadmap to the insurrection." The messages spotlight connections between the Stop the Steal conspiracy theories and the Hunter Biden laptop disinformation campaign.
Most alarmingly, Riggleman discloses that Ginni Thomas, wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, was embedded in these group texts coordinating with the White House on election challenges. He contends this suggests potential judicial branch involvement in subverting the election.
Overall, Riggleman makes a compelling case that Johnson's rise to Speaker of the House signals the GOP's disturbing slide into extremism and tolerance of dangerous conspiracies. He surfaces the urgent need to counter these anti-democratic forces connected to January 6th that are still working to undermine the Biden presidency.
Guest: Denver Riggleman, former GOP Congressman and author of "The Breach"
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As Israel. amasses 300,000 troops as it readies a ground invasion on Gaza, President Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office on his return from his shuttle diplomacy to the region. We'll enter the war room as President Biden urges Israeli leaders to de-escalate tensions. We'll examine the complex dynamics shaping relations between the US, Israel, and Saudi Arabia through Rick Petree's grounded analysis. We'll consider the risks of a potential ground invasion and its impact on oil prices and the US economy. With clarity, we'll explore the challenging road forward, including whether hostage negotiations could prevent further bloodshed.
Petree will share his perspective on dealings between Trump and foreign powers. We'll discuss whether Biden's diplomatic experience can reestablish America's leadership role in the Middle East and beyond. Petree offers a hopeful vision for reviving a two-state solution. His global outlook promises to enrich our understanding of the forces driving this crisis and the future of US politics. This sober, thoughtful discussion offers timely insights.
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