The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

Venezuela’s Oil Reserves and U.S. Involvement Trump announced that Venezuela would transfer 30–50 million barrels of high-quality oil to the United States. The oil would be sold at market price, with proceeds allegedly controlled by Trump to benefit both Venezuelans and Americans. Venezuela reportedly has $17.3 trillion worth of oil reserves, surpassing the combined global GDP (excluding the U.S. and China). Capture of Maduro and Regime Change Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured by U.S. forces. This event is a turning point for Venezuela, signaling the end of its socialist regime and the start of economic recovery. Domino Effect in Latin America U.S. officials speculate that Maduro’s fall could trigger regime changes in Cuba and other Latin American nations. Cuba is a “failed state” reliant on Venezuelan oil, and its government is portrayed as vulnerable. There are otential uprisings in Cuba, aided by U.S. influence and familial ties with Cuban-Americans. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Operation: The arrest of Maduro was a highly precise Delta Force mission, compared to past U.S. interventions like Noriega’s capture in Panama. The podcast praises Trump’s decisiveness and military success without U.S. casualties. Regional Impact: Cuba: Faces severe pressure due to loss of Venezuelan oil and the death of Cuban guards during the raid. Other Leftist Regimes: Leaders in Nicaragua, Colombia, and Brazil are considered weakened. Mexico: While not a failed state, concerns about narco-terrorism and water treaty disputes are highlighted. Future of Venezuela: Interim President Delcy Rodríguez is described as another Marxist figure, raising concerns about continuity of corruption. Advocates for free and fair elections to restore stability and attract foreign investment, especially in oil and gold sectors. Venezuela’s vast natural resources make it a prime candidate for rapid economic recovery if governance shifts toward pro-market policies. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 appearance in Manhattan on narco-terrorism and drug trafficking charges, noting his not guilty plea, assertion that he is a “prisoner of war,” and that he remains Venezuela’s legitimate president. It adds details about detention in Brooklyn and a next hearing set for March 17, 2026. Protests were outside the courthouse vs. the operation and prosecution which were legitimate actions against criminal syndicates. U.S. counter-narcotics narrative The FBI Director is quoted praising Trump’s leadership, claiming agreements with Chinese officials reduced precursor chemicals for fentanyl, and citing seizure quantities (e.g., enough fentanyl to kill 175 million Americans). The director frames Venezuela as a transshipment point and argues the arrests support U.S. public safety. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Announcement: Trump announced the success via a social media post and later held a press conference at Mar-a-Lago. Justification: The reasons include stopping drug trafficking, recovering stolen oil, and addressing fentanyl-related deaths in the U.S. Scale of Operation: Over 150 aircraft involved, including bombers, fighters, drones, and helicopters. Integration of multiple U.S. military branches and agencies (Space Command, Cyber Command, Marines, Navy, Air Force). Tactical surprise achieved through months of planning and intelligence gathering. Execution: The strike occurred during the night, with helicopters flying at low altitude over water. Venezuelan air defenses were dismantled before the extraction force landed. Maduro’s compound was heavily fortified with steel doors and a “safe space,” but he was captured before reaching it. Minimal U.S. casualties; one aircraft was hit but remained operational. Aftermath: Maduro and Flores were indicted in the Southern District of New York for narco-terrorism. Trump framed the operation as a warning to adversaries and a restoration of U.S. global respect. Statements from U.S. officials and lawmakers praised the complexity and success of the mission. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 strategic location near the U.S. Maduro’s regime is portrayed as illegitimate, corrupt, and deeply involved in drug trafficking and alliances with U.S. adversaries (Russia, China, Iran, Hezbollah). The discussion highlights Venezuela’s decline from being one of the wealthiest nations in the 1950s to a failed state under socialist rule. Legal Justifications President Trump acted within his constitutional authority under Article II as Commander-in-Chief. References are made to historical precedents, notably the 1990 capture of Manuel Noriega in Panama. The legal basis includes: FBI’s extraterritorial arrest authority. Precedents like the Ker-Frisbie doctrine and United States v. Alvarez-Machain. DOJ opinions (including one by Bill Barr) affirming presidential power to authorize such actions. Anticipated legal challenges include head-of-state immunity and UN Charter arguments. Future Implications (WATCH HERE: Is Cuba Ready to Fall?) There will be geopolitical ripple effects in Latin America, especially Cuba and Colombia. Avoiding prolonged U.S. military occupation in Venezuela is key Discussion of possible democratic elections and leadership changes in Venezuela. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. Alleged Fraud in Minnesota and Governor Tim Walz's Response A viral video that exposes widespread fraud involving childcare centers and federal aid programs in Minnesota, linked to the Somali community. Governor Tim Walz is criticized for refusing to address media questions and for advocating more inclusivity toward the Somali community despite the allegations. The report claims federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, and ICE, have launched investigations into large-scale fraud schemes, possibly amounting to billions of dollars. It mentions whistleblower retaliation allegations and frames Walz’s stance as politically motivated, citing the Somali community as a key voting bloc. Conservative figures and the Trump administration are portrayed as taking strong action to restore “law and order.” 2. High-Level Diplomatic Meetings Involving Donald Trump The second part shifts to international affairs, describing meetings at Mar-a-Lago between Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Volodymyr Zelensky. Topics included: U.S.-Israel relations and a proposed Middle East peace plan. Concerns about Iran allegedly developing chemical and biological warheads, with Trump and Netanyahu asserting Iran cannot obtain nuclear weapons. Trump’s engagement with Zelensky focused on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, offering Ukraine a 15-year U.S. security guarantee, and maintaining diplomatic channels with Russia through a follow-up call with Vladimir Putin. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Corruption Minnesota politicians, including Governor Tim Walz and other Minneapolis officials, have enabled fraud for political gain. Funds were used to buy votes and maintain power, particularly by appealing to immigrant communities. Financial Impact Minnesota swung from an $18 billion surplus to a $6 billion deficit in two years, attributing much of this to fraud. Estimates fraud in Minnesota alone exceeds $9 billion, with nationwide entitlement fraud possibly 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation Drop Inflation fell unexpectedly to 2.7%, which the author claims validates Trump’s economic strategy. Energy Policy Impact Deregulation and expansion of domestic oil and gas production lowered energy costs, reducing transportation and manufacturing expenses across the economy. Tariffs and Trade Contrary to predictions of price hikes and supply chain chaos, tariffs pressured foreign producers to absorb costs, stabilized markets, and boosted U.S. manufacturing. Deregulation Cutting federal regulations reduced compliance costs and “hidden inflation,” enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and keep prices down. Market Confidence Trump’s leadership restored confidence, reducing volatility and inflationary expectations. Fiscal Discipline Signals of government spending restraint reassured markets and contributed to lower inflation expectations. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 at cutting waste and fraud. Targeting fraudulent entitlement payments and political corruption. Political Commentary Musk reflects on his shift from being celebrated by the political left (due to Tesla and SpaceX) to being vilified, attributing it to his efforts to expose waste and fraud. Mentions death threats and organized attacks against Tesla infrastructure, allegedly funded by left-wing organizations. AI and Robotics Predicts that within 10 years, AI will surpass human cognitive abilities. Foresees billions of humanoid robots and near-total automation of transportation. Warns of a 10% chance of AI-driven catastrophic scenarios within a decade. Space Exploration Discusses plans for Mars colonization: First human landing by 2029 (best case). Goal: a self-sustaining city on Mars within 20 years. Challenges: recreating Earth’s industrial base on Mars. Shares personal motivation rooted in expanding human consciousness and ensuring civilization’s survival. Personal Insights Talks about his work ethic (averages 6 hours of sleep, works almost constantly). Early struggles: living in an office, showering at YMCA during his first startup. Views on intellectual property: “Patents are for the weak”—prefers open innovation. Cultural References Lighthearted discussion about Star Wars vs. Star Trek, movies, and pop culture. Mentions his first video game (Blastar) and lifelong fascination with space. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Savings Accounts (HSAs) and direct tax credits to individuals rather than insurers. Push for cost-sharing reductions that were previously blocked in Congress. Financial Impact Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates reforms could: Lower premiums by 12.7%. Save taxpayers $30.8 billion. Criticism of ACA for being “unsustainable” and increasing premiums by 80% since passage. Political Context Democrats opposed previous Republican attempts to include cost-sharing reductions in legislation. Debate over whether reforms should be bipartisan or passed via budget reconciliation. Trump emphasizes “power to the people” by allowing individuals to control healthcare spending. Underlying Philosophy There is a strong focus on consumer choice and freedom. Opposition to government-managed healthcare and subsidies flowing to insurance companies. A belief that direct-to-consumer funding will reduce corruption and lower costs. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Main Allegation: Widespread fraud in Minnesota’s childcare programs, allegedly involving fake daycare centers and misuse of federal funds over the past decade. Federal Response: The Trump administration froze $185 million in federal childcare funds to Minnesota. Actions announced by Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill include: Activation of the “Defend the Spend” system requiring receipts or photo evidence before payments. A demand letter to Governor Tim Walz for a full review of childcare centers. Launch of a fraud reporting hotline and email. FBI and DHS expanded investigations, deploying additional agents to dismantle large-scale fraud operations. Political Angle: Governor Tim Walz and Democrats are negligent or complicit. The fraud is linked to Somali immigrant communities and compared to organized crime. Democrats tolerate fraud to secure votes and maintain political power. Media Reaction: MSNBC and The New York Times framed criticism as racist, accusing Republicans of scapegoating Somali immigrants. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Somali descent. Political Narrative Fraud was tolerated to secure votes and maintain political power by Democrats. Systemic corruption and links to Democratic strategies involving welfare dependency. Media Criticism Mainstream media is ignoring or downplaying the scandal. There is bias and a political cover-up. Federal Response Actions by HHS and other agencies are needed to tighten oversight and stop fraudulent payments. Highlights statements from officials and references to Elon Musk’s earlier warnings about entitlement fraud. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 immigration checks. Officials describe the fraud as potentially “the tip of a very large iceberg”, involving hundreds of millions or billions of dollars. Trump administration is taking decisive action to restore law and order. 2. Trump’s Diplomatic Moves Trump’s Mar-a-Lago meeting with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The following is emphasized: Strong U.S.-Israel alliance, dismissing media claims of tension. Discussions on Middle East peace plans, Gaza reconstruction, and Iran’s pursuit of chemical and biological warheads. Trump’s warning: Iran will face immediate military action if it resumes missile or nuclear programs. Trump’s diplomatic engagement with Zelensky and Putin, signaling progress toward a Russia-Ukraine peace framework and offering Ukraine a 15-year U.S. security guarantee. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scale of Fraud: FBI Director Cash Patel confirmed that the fraud is extensive, describing it as “just the tip of a very large iceberg.” A single dismantled scheme tied to federal food aid programs amounted to $250 million, resulting in 78 indictments and 57 convictions. Broader estimates suggest fraud across multiple programs in Minnesota could total billions of dollars, including Medicaid, childcare assistance, and nutrition programs. Nick Shirley’s Role: Shirley posted a 42-minute investigative video showing visits to licensed childcare centers that appeared inactive despite receiving millions in public funding. One center reportedly received $1.9 million in 2025 but had no children present. His video documented $110 million in questionable payments in a single day, sparking national outrage and tens of millions of views. Political and Media Reaction: Figures like Elon Musk, JD Vance, and Rep. Tom Emmer amplified the story, calling for accountability. Criticism was directed at mainstream media for failing to investigate, and at Minnesota’s Democratic leadership, including Governor Tim Walz, for allegedly ignoring the issue. Legal Consequences: Convicted fraudsters may face denaturalization and deportation in addition to prison sentences. The FBI has surged resources to Minnesota and considers dismantling these schemes a top priority. Underlying Issues: Allegations that political interests and systemic failures allowed fraud to flourish. Claims that Minnesota has become a “magnet for fraud” and even developed a “fraud tourism industry.” Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, ignored or enabled the fraud. Stolen funds were used to influence elections and fund campaigns. We bring up Ilhan Omar and have questions about her financial gains. Investigative Work by Nick Shirley A 23-year-old YouTuber, Nick Shirley, conducted undercover investigations, visiting daycare and autism centers, documenting the absence of children, and exposing suspicious operations. His video reportedly went viral, reaching over 90 million views. Media Criticism Strong criticism of mainstream (called “Corporate”) media for allegedly ignoring the story. Praise for independent investigative journalism. Security and Confrontations Confrontations with individuals at the centers, some becoming hostile. Police involvement when Shirley attempted to gather information at healthcare offices. Financial Scale Examples of payments: individual centers receiving $1–$3 million annually. Autism-related Medicaid payments allegedly skyrocketed from $1.3 million in 2017 to $228 million in 2024. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legal and Constitutional Battles involving President Donald Trump A recent Supreme Court decision denying the Trump administration's request to federalize Illinois National Guard troops to assist ICE agents in Chicago. The ruling emphasized that the administration failed to identify statutory authority for deploying military forces to enforce laws in Illinois. Details of the majority opinion, concurring opinion by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and dissenting opinions by Justices Alito, Thomas, and Gorsuch. Republican Voter Registration Gains in Pennsylvania Highlights a significant surge in GOP voter registrations in Pennsylvania, noting a net gain of 12,488 registrations in one week. Compares current Democratic registration advantage (about 49,558 voters) to a much larger lead in 2016 (nearly 916,000 voters). Points out a long-term trend: since the 2024 election cycle, Democrats have lost 449,000 registered voters, while Republicans lost 222,000, resulting in a net GOP gain of 227,000 voters. Mentions Trump’s economic achievements in Pennsylvania, including 60,000 new jobs and $100 billion in investments, as part of his second-term agenda. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 distorted picture of poverty. Example: A single parent earning $11,000 annually can receive benefits worth $53,128, bringing total resources to $64,128, well above the poverty threshold. Criticism of the system: It traps people in dependency instead of promoting self-sufficiency, contrasting with Trump-era welfare reform that moved 7 million people off food stamps into the workforce. 2. Massive Fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid and Welfare Programs Federal prosecutors allege up to $9 billion in fraud since 2018, possibly 50% of the $18 billion spent on 14 programs. Fraud described as “industrial scale”, involving fake companies and individuals exploiting housing and autism assistance programs. Some funds allegedly funneled to Al Shabab, a Somali terrorist organization. Criticism of Minnesota’s Democratic leadership for lack of oversight and alleged vote-buying incentives. Prediction: Similar fraud likely exists in California, New York, and Illinois. Media accused of downplaying the scandal; local CBS reports highlighted the severity. 3. Strong U.S. Economic Performance Under Trump Latest GDP report shows 4.3% growth in Q3, the strongest in two years, beating expectations of 3.2%. Growth driven by consumer spending, healthcare, tech, and AI-related investments. Inflation reportedly down to 1.6%, signaling economic stability. Commentary contrasts media narratives predicting economic collapse with reality of strong holiday spending and trade policy success. Trump’s supply-side policies (tax cuts, deregulation) and trade strategies credited for economic boom. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Policy Overview Undocumented immigrants can receive a $3,000 “exit bonus” if they leave the U.S. voluntarily by December 31. The program includes free travel arrangements and potential waivers of civil fines. Registration is required via a Department of Homeland Security app. Rationale It is cheaper than formal deportation, which involves legal processes, detention, and transportation costs. It is a way to reduce economic strain caused by illegal immigration (jobs, housing costs, remittances sent abroad). Political Framing It's a “brilliant Trump policy” and contrasted with Democratic positions on immigration. Criticism of Democrats for opposing the plan despite their stated humanitarian values. Human Impact Includes anecdotal stories of undocumented families facing deportation and its effect on children and school enrollment. Highlights social media examples of individuals documenting their self-deportation. Economic Argument Money earned by undocumented immigrants often leaves the U.S. economy through remittances. Suggests that removing undocumented immigrants will benefit American workers and housing markets. Eligibility & Conditions Only undocumented immigrants qualify. Must depart by December 31 to receive the bonus. Payment processed after departure; previous complaints about delays noted. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Ryan, American Sniper, Hidden Figures, Top Gun: Maverick, and Avatar. He emphasizes true stories, war films, musicals, and movies with strong moral or patriotic themes. Personal Movie Preferences: Cruz shares his favorite films (The Princess Bride, The Godfather, Scarface, Fletch), and discusses his love for musicals and classic comedies. He recounts personal anecdotes, including taking his mother to Broadway shows and watching Saving Private Ryan and Dallas Buyers Club. Cultural Commentary: The conversation touches on broader cultural issues, such as the disconnect between Hollywood and everyday Americans, the importance of storytelling, and the role of cinema in shaping public perception. 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Operations U.S. law enforcement Operation Northern Lights, which has recovered 43 missing children in Florida and surrounding states. Highlights risks these children faced (human trafficking, exploitation, domestic violence). Frames the current administration as proactive compared to the previous one, which is accused of neglecting child safety for political reasons tied to immigration. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz 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 X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.