The Ben Ferguson Podcast

Immigration Enforcement Surge The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a major immigration enforcement operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, called Operation Charlotte’s Web. This is part of a broader expansion of enforcement efforts in cities like Chicago. The stated goal: remove “violent criminal illegal aliens” and enhance public safety. Local officials, including Charlotte’s mayor, criticized the operation for causing fear among residents. Political and Media Reactions The narrative strongly frames Democrats as opposing immigration enforcement and even aiding illegal immigrants. Mentions activists using whistles and online alerts to warn undocumented individuals about ICE/DHS presence. The tone portrays this as dangerous and irresponsible, linking it to child predators and sex offenders. Crime Statistics and Enforcement Justification Highlights arrests of child sexual predators and sex offenders in operations like Operation Dirtbag (Florida) and in Houston. Emphasizes that many arrested individuals were involved in serious crimes, including child abuse and trafficking. Criticism of Democratic Party The text repeatedly accuses Democrats of enabling illegal immigration and undermining law enforcement. Frames their actions as part of a broader ideological agenda (Marxism, socialism, communism). Michelle Obama Commentary Includes a segment on Michelle Obama’s recent statements claiming Americans “aren’t ready” for a woman president. Suggests she attributes Kamala Harris’s loss to sexism and racism. Critiques Obama’s narrative as out of touch, pointing out her media prominence (e.g., Vogue covers) and contrasting with Melania Trump. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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.

Jeffrey Epstein Controversy and Political Weaponization The document argues that Democrats and mainstream media are using the Epstein scandal as a political tool to damage Donald Trump’s presidency. It claims the media ignored Epstein’s victims for years and only revived interest to create a “hoax” similar to the Russia collusion narrative. Alleged Epstein-Democrat Connection Newly released documents reportedly show Epstein texting Democratic Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett during the 2019 Michael Cohen hearing. The texts suggest Epstein was actively trying to influence proceedings against Trump. The narrative emphasizes that Democrats were “working with Epstein” rather than investigating him. Trump’s Response Trump dismisses the Epstein focus as “fake news” and a diversion from his administration’s successes. He has ordered the DOJ to investigate Epstein’s ties to political figures, including prominent Democrats and donors like Bill Clinton. Media and Public Perception The podcast accuses media outlets of selective reporting and misleading the public. It notes that even CNN admitted there are no verified allegations linking Trump to Epstein in public records. Congressional Action Mentions bipartisan efforts to release Epstein-related files, led by Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie. Khanna frames the push as a fight for justice for victims, while the author portrays it as a political maneuver to undermine Trump. 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.

Trump’s Strategic Move on Epstein Files Donald Trump publicly calls for the House to release all Jeffrey Epstein-related files. Frames the release as transparency and a way to expose Democratic ties to Epstein. Suggests Democrats are using Epstein as a political weapon against Trump. Government Shutdown Outcome Analysis of CBS polling showing Americans believe Republicans and Trump won the shutdown negotiations. We highlight internal Democratic conflict (AOC vs. Senate Democrats) and criticism of Chuck Schumer’s leadership. Michelle Obama’s Statement on Presidential Run Michelle Obama claims America is “not ready” for a female president. Hosts interpret this as arrogance and dismissiveness, framing Democrats as unwilling to self-reflect after electoral losses. 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.

Government Reopening The shutdown lasted 44 days, the longest in U.S. history. The House is expected to vote on an appropriations package and continuing resolution, followed by the President’s signature. Federal employees (Capitol Hill staff, TSA agents, air traffic controllers, custodians) have missed paychecks and are stressed financially. Operational Impact Air travel disruptions (delays and cancellations) will persist for several days due to staffing shortages and sick-outs among TSA and air traffic controllers. Full restoration of government services will take time. Political Commentary Senator Ted Cruz criticizes Democrats for allegedly using shutdowns as leverage and predicts another shutdown when the continuing resolution expires on January 30. Discussion of legislation to ensure essential workers are paid during future shutdowns. Internal Democratic Party conflicts highlighted, including criticism of Chuck Schumer and reactions to eight Democratic senators voting to reopen the government. Senator John Fetterman’s stance on Israel and divergence from the party’s radical wing is emphasized. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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. TSA Bonus Checks After Shutdown Event: DHS Secretary Christy Nome awarded $10,000 bonus checks to TSA agents who worked during a record-breaking 43-day government shutdown. Reasoning: Rewards for “exemplary service” and commitment to national security despite lack of pay. Details: Bonuses funded from fiscal year 2025 carryover funds. Trump reportedly pushed for the $10,000 amount, calling it “the American way.” Democrats criticized the move, alleging favoritism and photo-op motives. Tone: Praises workers who “took pride in their country” and condemns those who skipped work despite guaranteed back pay. 2. Democratic Reaction and Shutdown Politics Quotes from Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Wesley Bell expressing dissatisfaction with reopening the government. Commentary frames Democrats as prioritizing political points over citizens’ welfare (e.g., food stamp recipients). Democrats are considering another shutdown. 3. Epstein Files Controversy Trump’s response: Directing DOJ and FBI to investigate Epstein’s ties to Democrats and major institutions (Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, JP Morgan Chase). Trump labels the situation “Russia Hoax 2.0” and claims Democrats are weaponizing Epstein allegations to harm him. Virginia Giuffre’s statements clearing Trump of wrongdoing and accusing Democrats of hiding her name. Criticizes Democrats for ignoring victims historically and only caring when it suits political attacks. 4. Clinton Foundation Investigation A 2019 IRS criminal probe into the Clinton Foundation that was halted under Democratic leadership. Whistleblowers (John Moynihan and Larry Doyle) claimed the foundation operated as a “foreign agent.” Trump administration reportedly reopened the investigation. Includes allegations of “pay-for-play” and Nigerian officials claiming favors for donations. Clinton Foundation denies wrongdoing, citing high program spending. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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.

Epstein Files Controversy Democrats are using Epstein-related allegations to attack Donald Trump without evidence. References Virginia Giuffre (a known Epstein survivor) and her statements about Trump not being involved in wrongdoing.   Donald Trump’s Response Trump allegedly directed the DOJ and FBI to investigate Epstein’s ties to Democrats and certain financial institutions. Names mentioned: Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, JP Morgan Chase. Trump frames the situation as a “Russia hoax 2.0” aimed at Democrats. Criticism of Democrats Accuses Democrats of ignoring Epstein victims historically and only caring now to harm Trump politically. Suggests Democrats previously failed to act when they had power. Clinton Foundation Investigation Discusses a 2019 IRS criminal probe into the Clinton Foundation that was allegedly halted under Democratic leadership. Mentions whistleblowers (John Moynihan and Larry Doyle) and allegations that the foundation operated as a “foreign agent.” Notes that the Trump administration has reopened the investigation. 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.

Healthcare Policy & Obamacare the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), caused premiums to skyrocket instead of reducing costs. Discussion of President Trump’s stance on healthcare reform, emphasizing Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) as a solution to empower individuals rather than insurance companies. Includes a tweet from Trump advocating for HSAs and opposing corporate welfare for health insurers. Stock performance data of major health insurance companies since Obamacare passed, highlighting massive profit increases. Government Shutdown & Political Divide Commentary on the recent government shutdown, blaming Democrats for prolonging it. Portrays Democrats as controlled by “Marxists” and “radicals,” contrasting Republican values of individual freedom and choice. Mentions internal Democratic Party conflicts and leadership struggles. Legislation Preview Introduction of the “Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2025”, aimed at making welfare fraud a deportable offense for illegal immigrants. Provides statistics on SNAP and public benefits abuse by non-citizens, estimating billions in costs over a decade. Profile on Senator John Fetterman Highlights Fetterman’s dissent from mainstream Democratic positions, especially his strong pro-Israel stance. Discusses his recovery from a stroke and the backlash he faces from within his party. Suggests growing incompatibility between being pro-Israel and being a Democrat. Campus Violence & Radical Groups Reports on violent protests at a Turning Point USA event at UC Berkeley, allegedly funded by far-left organizations. Mentions Antifa involvement and chants celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk. References DOJ investigation into funding sources behind these protests and university administrators’ alleged complicity. 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.

SNAP (Food Stamp) Fraud Allegations the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is rife with fraud and abuse. Statistics cited: 186,000 deceased individuals allegedly receiving benefits. 500,000 people receiving duplicate payments. Estimated fraud cost: $12 billion. Mentions criminal cases involving EBT card trafficking and bribery schemes. Suggests Democrats expanded SNAP under Biden by 40% for political gain. Political Framing Democrats use welfare programs to “buy votes” and create dependency. Contrasts this with Trump-era policies promoting jobs and economic empowerment. Frames SNAP reform as a moral and fiscal necessity. California CDL Scandal Reports that California DMV allegedly issued 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) illegally to foreign or undocumented drivers. Suggests this endangered public safety and displaced American workers. Criticizes Governor Gavin Newsom and California officials for downplaying the issue. Links the scandal to broader claims of Democratic prioritization of illegal immigrants over citizens. Democratic Party Civil War An internal conflict is growing following the government shutdown. Progressive leaders (e.g., AOC) allegedly challenging Chuck Schumer’s leadership. The party is divided between moderates and radical leftists (socialists, Marxists). Leadership changes and primary challenges. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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.

Democratic Party Civil War A major internal split between establishment Democrats (e.g., Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi) and progressive leaders (e.g., AOC) has risen Suggests Schumer is under pressure to step down due to perceived weakness during shutdown negotiations. Frames progressives as radical (using terms like “socialists,” “Marxists”) and accuses them of demanding aggressive opposition, even violence. Predicts leadership challenges and possible primaries, with AOC positioned as a rising figure. SNAP Fraud Allegations USDA Secretary Brook Rollins reportedly revealed shocking data: 186,000 deceased individuals receiving benefits. 500,000 duplicate payments. Estimated fraud: $12 billion. Mentions criminal cases involving EBT card trafficking and bribery schemes. Suggests Democrats expanded SNAP under Biden by 40% for political gain. Frames welfare programs as tools for “buying votes” and creating dependency. 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 Shutdown Analysis The recent end of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history (43 days). Democrats, particularly Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, caused harm to Americans for political gain. The economic impacts: delayed flights, unpaid federal workers, halted food stamp benefits, and harm to small businesses. Predicts future political consequences and possible repeat shutdown scenarios. Includes quotes from President Trump during the signing of legislation reopening the government. Healthcare Debate Focuses on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), labeling it as financially disastrous and unaffordable. Advocates for reforms such as health savings accounts and reducing subsidies to insurance companies. Suggests reconciliation as a legislative strategy to bypass Democratic opposition. Persecution of Christians in Nigeria Highlights severe violence against Christians by Boko Haram and other radical Islamic groups. States that over 50,000 Christians have been killed since 2009 and thousands of churches destroyed. Discusses U.S. legislative efforts to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and impose sanctions on complicit officials. Criticizes Tucker Carlson for allegedly downplaying the persecution issue. Domestic Extremism & Campus Violence Violent protests by Antifa at a Turning Point USA event at UC Berkeley. Mentions previous assassination of Charlie Kirk and ongoing threats against conservative speakers. Raises concerns about university administrators allegedly enabling violence. Discusses DOJ investigations into funding sources for radical groups and legislation to target financial backers of riots. 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.

Shutdown Details: Lasted over 40 days, beginning October 1 and ending with a stopgap funding measure through January 30. Caused missed paychecks for federal workers, airline delays, and disruption of SNAP (food stamps) benefits for millions. Senate passed the reopening bill with a 60–40 vote; eight Democrats joined Republicans. Political Narrative: Claims Democrats acted out of political spite, prioritizing hurting Trump over helping Americans. Suggests Democrats repeatedly voted against measures to fund food stamps. Predicts another shutdown could occur after January 30. President Trump’s Remarks: Democrats are extortionists demanding trillions for illegal immigrants. Calls for ending the filibuster to prevent future shutdowns. Highlights economic achievements (record stock prices, lower gas prices, tax cuts). Criticizes Obamacare as a “disaster” and proposes redirecting funds from insurers to individuals. Gavin Newsom’s former chief of staff: Discusses alleged corruption involving Gavin Newsom’s former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, charged with fraud and obstruction. Frames this as evidence of systemic Democratic corruption and media bias for ignoring the story. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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 Shutdown Context The shutdown lasted over 40 days, beginning October 1 and ending after a Senate vote (60–40) and subsequent House approval. A stopgap funding measure was passed to keep the government operating until January 30, while negotiations for a long-term appropriations bill continue. Political Narrative Democrats are responsible for the shutdown, accusing them of: Blocking votes to fund programs like SNAP (food stamps). Intentionally prolonging the shutdown to harm Americans and blame Trump. Republicans are portrayed as consistently voting for “clean” funding extensions. Impact of Shutdown Economic and social harm cited: Missed paychecks for over 1 million federal workers. 20,000 flight cancellations/delays due to air traffic controller shortages. Disruption of SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans. Financial strain on contractors and small businesses. President Trump’s Remarks Trump’s speech during the signing of the bill includes: Accusations of Democratic “extortion” and prioritizing illegal immigrants. Calls to terminate the filibuster to prevent future shutdowns. Celebration of economic achievements: record stock market highs, lower gas prices, and tax cuts. Criticism of Obamacare, proposing direct payments to citizens for healthcare instead of insurance companies. 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.

Tariff Revenue and Proposed Rebates President Donald Trump is advocating returning surplus tariff revenue to Americans in the form of $2,000 “tariff rebate checks” or tax credits. The plan targets low- and middle-income U.S. citizens, excluding high-income earners. Trump frames this as a dividend from tariffs, emphasizing that the funds should not be used for government projects but returned to taxpayers. He claims tariffs have generated trillions of dollars in revenue and attracted significant foreign investment (estimated at $18–20 trillion). The proposal also aims to reduce national debt (currently cited as $37–38 trillion). Legal challenges exist, with the tariff policy under review by the Supreme Court. Government Shutdown Update Ben also reports on the end of the longest U.S. government shutdown in history (lasting about 40 days). A compromise deal is moving through Congress to reopen the government until January 30, including: Full funding for SNAP benefits through September 2026. Guaranteed back pay for federal workers. Passage of three appropriations bills (Military Construction/Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Legislative Branch). Air travel disruptions are highlighted due to unpaid air traffic controllers. The shutdown is politically motivated, with criticism directed at Democrats for prolonging it. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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.

Shutdown Ending Shutdown lasted 40+ days, starting October 1. Senate voted 60–40 to approve an amended continuing resolution (CR) reopening the government until January 30. House expected to vote within 36 hours; President Trump anticipated to sign immediately. Legislative Details CR provisions: Full funding for SNAP (food assistance) through September 2026. Guaranteed back pay for federal workers. Passage of three appropriations bills: Military Construction & Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and Legislative Branch. Impact on Public Services Air travel severely disrupted: Nearly 50% of domestic flights canceled or delayed due to unpaid air traffic controllers calling in sick. Some lawmakers driving to Washington because flights were unreliable. Federal workers and low-income families awaiting relief. Political Commentary Criticism of Democrats for allegedly using shutdown as leverage. Praise for Senate Democrats and one independent who voted to reopen government. Strong negative stance on Obamacare, citing skyrocketing premiums (100–300% increases) and calling it “a disaster” and “unsustainable.” Future Outlook Warning of another potential shutdown on January 30. Calls for major healthcare reform to prevent financial collapse. Broader argument that government is “bloated” and most Americans were unaffected by the shutdown. 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 Shutdown Ending The shutdown lasted 44 days, making it the longest in U.S. history. The House is voting on an appropriations package and continuing resolution after the Senate passed it. President expected to sign the bill immediately, reopening the government. Impact on Federal Employees Thousands of federal workers (Capitol Hill staff, TSA agents, air traffic controllers, custodians, etc.) missed paychecks. Stress among young employees with little savings. Discussion on delays in restoring normal operations, especially air travel. Air Travel & Safety TSA and air traffic controllers calling in sick caused flight delays and cancellations. Praise for Transportation Secretary and Trump administration for prioritizing safety. Proposal for bonuses and legislative changes to ensure essential workers are paid during future shutdowns. Political Dynamics Democrats seek “maximum pain” during shutdowns for leverage. Mention of internal Democratic conflict—“civil war”—after eight Democratic senators voted to reopen the government. Calls for leadership changes (e.g., Chuck Schumer under fire). References to Washington Post coverage of Democrats adopting “ruthless tactics.” Future Outlook Warning of another potential shutdown on January 30 when the continuing resolution expires. Concerns about Obamacare subsidies and rising healthcare premiums. Broader critique of Democratic policies and party direction. 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.

Government Shutdown & Air Travel Chaos Democrats are deliberately prolonging the shutdown to gain political leverage. FAA has ordered airlines to reduce flight operations (starting at 4%, increasing to 6%, and later up to 10%) due to staffing shortages among air traffic controllers. Safety concerns are highlighted, including increased risks of accidents and loss of separation in airspace. Obamacare Subsidies & Political Motives Central argument: Democrats are using the shutdown to secure a one-year extension of ACA (Affordable Care Act) premium tax credits. Health insurers are benefiting massively from government subsidies, citing figures like: $400 billion in temporary COVID-era subsidies. $1 trillion annually in federal subsidies. Insurers are enrolling people who don’t use coverage to inflate federal payouts. Corporate Influence & Corruption Allegations Insurers donate heavily to Democratic campaigns to protect subsidies. Mentions specific donations (e.g., Blue Shield of California, UnitedHealth). Accuses insurers of overbilling Medicare Advantage by $1 trillion over a decade. Filibuster Debate Republican frustration with the filibuster blocking legislative progress. Quotes from Senators (e.g., Tommy Tuberville, John Fetterman) about possibly “nuking” the filibuster to reopen the government. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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.

Shutdown Status & Deal Progress The shutdown began on October 1 and is now at day 41. A bipartisan deal involving Republicans, President Trump, and eight moderate Democrats is close to passing. The deal would: Reopen the government until January 30. Fund programs like SNAP (food stamps), veterans benefits, and other federal services. Reverse layoffs of federal workers and block further firings until January 30. Commit to a future vote on extending Obamacare subsidies. Impact on Air Travel there are severe flight cancellations and delays due to air traffic controller shortages. FAA ordered airlines to cut flights by 4%, with Delta canceling nearly 500 flights and United following similar measures. President Trump ordered all air traffic controllers back to work and threatened pay docking for absentees, while promising $10,000 bonuses for those who worked through the shutdown. Political Dynamics Democrats are deliberately prolonging the shutdown for leverage. Internal Democratic Party civil war: Criticism of Chuck Schumer’s leadership. Calls from Democrats and media figures for Schumer to step down. Growing influence of progressive wing (e.g., Bernie Sanders, AOC faction). Republicans argue Democrats used Americans as “leverage” in a political game. 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. 🏛️ Government Shutdown Status The government had been shut down for 40 days, the longest in U.S. history. A Senate vote secured 60 votes (including 8 Democrats) to begin the reopening process. The continuing resolution (CR) will fund the government through January 30, avoiding a holiday-season funding crisis. 2. ⚙️ Reopening Process Despite the vote, procedural delays (e.g., Senate rules requiring 60 votes and time gaps between votes) mean the government may not fully reopen until Tuesday or Wednesday. Unanimous consent could have expedited the process, but some Democrats (e.g., Bernie Sanders) were accused of obstructing. 3. ✈️ Impact on Travel and Public Services TSA agents and air traffic controllers were working without pay, leading to sick-outs and flight delays. Even after reopening, normal operations may take several days to resume. 4. 📜 Legislation Introduced Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2025: Would make welfare fraud by illegal immigrants a deportable offense. Cites statistics on non-citizens receiving SNAP and WIC benefits. Claims a 10-year cost of $15 billion due to illegal immigrant access to benefits. Obamacare Subsidies Debate: Discussion on expiring subsidies for health insurance companies. Republicans agreed to a vote in early December on whether to extend these subsidies. Cruz and Trump oppose the subsidies, calling them corporate welfare, and advocate for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) instead. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson 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. 🏛️ Government Shutdown Status The government had been shut down for 40 days, the longest in U.S. history. A Senate vote secured 60 votes (including 8 Democrats) to begin the reopening process. The continuing resolution (CR) will fund the government through January 30, avoiding a holiday-season funding crisis. 2. ⚙️ Reopening Process Despite the vote, procedural delays (e.g., Senate rules requiring 60 votes and time gaps between votes) mean the government may not fully reopen until Tuesday or Wednesday. Unanimous consent could have expedited the process, but some Democrats (e.g., Bernie Sanders) were accused of obstructing. 3. ✈️ Impact on Travel and Public Services TSA agents and air traffic controllers were working without pay, leading to sick-outs and flight delays. Even after reopening, normal operations may take several days to resume. 4. 📜 Legislation Introduced Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2025: Would make welfare fraud by illegal immigrants a deportable offense. Cites statistics on non-citizens receiving SNAP and WIC benefits. Claims a 10-year cost of $15 billion due to illegal immigrant access to benefits. Obamacare Subsidies Debate: Discussion on expiring subsidies for health insurance companies. Republicans agreed to a vote in early December on whether to extend these subsidies. Cruz and Trump oppose the subsidies, calling them corporate welfare, and advocate for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) instead. 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. 🏛️ Government Shutdown Status The government had been shut down for 40 days, the longest in U.S. history. A Senate vote secured 60 votes (including 8 Democrats) to begin the reopening process. The continuing resolution (CR) will fund the government through January 30, avoiding a holiday-season funding crisis. 2. ⚙️ Reopening Process Despite the vote, procedural delays (e.g., Senate rules requiring 60 votes and time gaps between votes) mean the government may not fully reopen until Tuesday or Wednesday. Unanimous consent could have expedited the process, but some Democrats (e.g., Bernie Sanders) were accused of obstructing. 3. ✈️ Impact on Travel and Public Services TSA agents and air traffic controllers were working without pay, leading to sick-outs and flight delays. Even after reopening, normal operations may take several days to resume. 4. 📜 Legislation Introduced Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2025: Would make welfare fraud by illegal immigrants a deportable offense. Cites statistics on non-citizens receiving SNAP and WIC benefits. Claims a 10-year cost of $15 billion due to illegal immigrant access to benefits. Obamacare Subsidies Debate: Discussion on expiring subsidies for health insurance companies. Republicans agreed to a vote in early December on whether to extend these subsidies. Cruz and Trump oppose the subsidies, calling them corporate welfare, and advocate for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) instead. 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.