In this BONUS episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, hosts Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss:  

1. Foiled Terror Attack in Los Angeles

• Incident: FBI arrested five suspects allegedly planning coordinated New Year’s Eve bombings in Los Angeles.
• Group: Identified as the Turtle Island Liberation Front, described as a radical pro-Palestinian, anti-American extremist group.
• Details:
  • Planned attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at five locations.
  • Four suspects arrested in Lucerne Valley while testing bomb components; a fifth arrested in New Orleans.
  • Materials included potassium nitrate, PVC pipes, sulfur powder, and charcoal.
• Ideology: Anti-U.S., pro-Palestinian, anti-law enforcement; Instagram posts included “Death to America” and “Free Palestine.”

2. DOJ and FBI Emails on Mar-a-Lago Raid

• Revelation: Internal FBI emails show agents doubted probable cause for the August 2022 raid on Trump’s residence.
• Concerns:
  • Evidence was “single source, uncorroborated, and possibly outdated.”
  • FBI suggested less intrusive alternatives, like negotiating with Trump’s attorneys.
  • DOJ officials allegedly dismissed optics concerns, saying they “didn’t give a damn.”
• Implications: The raid was politically motivated, intended to damage Trump’s chances of reelection.

3. Housing, Immigration, and Economic Policy

• Housing Crisis: Attributes skyrocketing rents and home prices to Biden-era immigration policies, citing a HUD report linking immigration to housing demand.
• Trump’s Deportation Policy: Claims mass deportations have lowered rents by 1.1% year-over-year and 5.2% since 2022.
• Economic Measures: Highlights upcoming tax reforms for 2026:
  • No tax on tips.
  • No tax on overtime.
  • No tax on Social Security for seniors.

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Trump IS Fixing the Economy

Inflation has dropped to 2.7%—the lowest level since spring 2021. Core inflation sits at 2.6%, nearing the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Clay explains why this matters for everyday Americans, connecting the dots between Biden-era spending, skyrocketing prices, and the aggressive interest rate hikes that froze the housing market. He recalls how inflation surged to 9.1% in June 2022 after trillions in stimulus spending, driving mortgage rates above 7% and locking millions of homeowners into historically low rates from 2020–2021. This “housing freeze,” Clay argues, remains one of the biggest drags on economic mobility.  Clay then pivots to President Trump’s primetime address, highlighting key announcements that could reshape the economic landscape.

Culture Wars

Brianna Lyman of The Federalist delivers a powerful defense of historical literacy amid efforts to erase America’s past. The discussion centers on Virginia’s removal of a Robert E. Lee statue, the legacy of reconciliation after the Civil War, and the dangers of applying modern moral standards to historical figures. Lyman warns that the left’s obsession with tearing down monuments—from Lee to Jefferson and even Washington—aims to delegitimize America’s founding principles and pave the way for radical ideological shifts. Clay and Lyman explore how this “floor vs. ceiling” approach to history—focusing on flaws instead of achievements—threatens national unity, especially as the country prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026.

MIT Assassination

Authorities believe they have identified the suspect in the Brown University shooting, which left two students dead and 12 injured after 40 rounds were fired on campus. While no arrest has been made, investigators are also probing a possible link between this attack and the assassination of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, a nuclear weapons expert killed in his Boston home just days later. Clay underscores the chilling implications of these events and promises continued coverage as details emerge.

The hour also touches on tragic news from North Carolina, where NASCAR legend Greg Biffle reportedly died in a private plane crash en route to Florida, according to Daily Mail reports citing close friends. Clay then pivots to a heated media moment: Candace Owens’ explosive claims on Piers Morgan’s show, suggesting two Turning Point USA employees may have had foreknowledge of Charlie Kirk’s assassination—a theory Clay calls “loony bin crazy” and emblematic of a media ecosystem that rewards outrageous, unverified opinions. He contrasts this with a Washington Post profile of alleged assassin Tyler Robinson, detailing his radicalization, anti-Trump rage, and ties to trans activism, reinforcing what Clay sees as the clear ideological motive behind the killing.

Dealing with Holiday TDS

Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert joins to offer strategies for surviving holiday gatherings with politically divided families. Alpert warns that “Trump Derangement Syndrome” has hardened into personality-level anger for some, fueling anxiety and family estrangement. His advice: prioritize relationships over politics, set boundaries, and redirect conversations to holiday traditions. Callers weigh in with personal stories and coping tactics, from walking away during heated debates to reaffirming shared values. Alpert also explores whether this intense polarization will persist beyond Trump’s presidency, concluding that while partisan hostility will remain, Trump’s outsider status amplified the vitriol to unprecedented levels.

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Hour 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show delivers a deep dive into the latest economic news and its political implications heading into 2026. Clay opens the hour solo, as Buck begins his holiday break, with breaking news that inflation has dropped to 2.7%—the lowest level since spring 2021. Core inflation sits at 2.6%, nearing the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Clay explains why this matters for everyday Americans, connecting the dots between Biden-era spending, skyrocketing prices, and the aggressive interest rate hikes that froze the housing market. He recalls how inflation surged to 9.1% in June 2022 after trillions in stimulus spending, driving mortgage rates above 7% and locking millions of homeowners into historically low rates from 2020–2021. This “housing freeze,” Clay argues, remains one of the biggest drags on economic mobility.

Clay then pivots to President Trump’s primetime address, highlighting key announcements that could reshape the economic landscape. Trump declared the U.S. is “poised for an economic boom the likes of which the world has never seen,” citing secure borders, falling prices, and rising wages. Among the headline initiatives: Warrior Dividend: A $1,776 tax-free payment for 1.45 million active-duty service members, funded by tariffs and Trump’s “big beautiful bill.”  Historic Tax Cuts: No tax on tips, overtime, or Social Security benefits for seniors, plus projections for the largest tax refund season in U.S. history next spring, with families saving $11,000–$20,000 annually.

Reverse Migration: For the first time in 50 years, illegal immigration is declining, easing pressure on housing and job markets. Clay underscores Trump’s claim that over 60% of rental cost growth under Biden was driven by foreign migrants. The hour also features listener calls and debate on immigration policy, housing affordability, and economic optimism. One caller argues Biden’s border policies were beneficial, while Clay challenges Democrats to define a realistic immigration cap. Another listener praises Trump-era optimism, noting that consumer confidence drives spending and economic growth.

Clay closes by framing the 2026 midterms as a referendum on economic perception: Will voters feel the benefits of Trump’s policies in time? He draws historical parallels to Ronald Reagan’s slow climb from Carter-era malaise to a 49-state landslide in 1984, predicting that by 2028, the U.S. economy will be “firing on all cylinders.”

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Hour 2 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show dives into the political, cultural, and economic issues shaping America as we head toward the 2026 midterms. Clay opens with breaking news updates on the Brown University shooting investigation, the Bondi Beach tragedy in Australia, and a deadly private plane crash in North Carolina possibly linked to NASCAR circles. While authorities release new surveillance footage in the Brown case, Clay notes the lack of progress and growing public frustration.

The hour’s central theme focuses on President Trump’s economic strategy and messaging challenge. Clay emphasizes that the 2026 election will hinge on three core issues: economy, border, and crime. With border security restored and violent crime rates plummeting to near 60-year lows in major cities, Trump’s biggest hurdle is convincing voters that the economy is improving without sounding out of touch. Clay cites CNN’s Harry Enten, who reports Democrats in Congress have hit their lowest approval rating ever—55 points underwater overall and 61 points among independents, reflecting widespread voter dissatisfaction.

Trump’s Warrior Dividend announcement—a $1,776 tax-free bonus for 1.45 million active-duty service members funded by tariff revenue—should have been universally praised, but Clay highlights how The View criticized the move as a political ploy. He calls this reaction “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” arguing that rewarding soldiers during America’s 250th anniversary is common sense and patriotic. Trump also previewed America 250 celebrations, including hosting the World Cup and Olympics, framing these events as opportunities to restore national pride and optimism.

Clay then pivots to cultural battles with guest Brianna Lyman of The Federalist, who delivers a powerful defense of historical literacy amid efforts to erase America’s past. The discussion centers on Virginia’s removal of a Robert E. Lee statue, the legacy of reconciliation after the Civil War, and the dangers of applying modern moral standards to historical figures. Lyman warns that the left’s obsession with tearing down monuments—from Lee to Jefferson and even Washington—aims to delegitimize America’s founding principles and pave the way for radical ideological shifts. Clay and Lyman explore how this “floor vs. ceiling” approach to history—focusing on flaws instead of achievements—threatens national unity, especially as the country prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026.

The segment closes with calls from listeners debating economic optimism, historical context, and Trump’s first-year performance in his second term. Clay underscores that Trump 2.0 earns an A+ for decision-making, but effective communication will determine whether voters feel the progress by November. He draws parallels to Ronald Reagan’s slow climb from Carter-era malaise to a 49-state landslide in 1984, predicting that sustained conservative leadership is essential to reverse decades of policy failures.

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Hour 3 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show delivers a mix of breaking news, cultural commentary, and practical advice for navigating political tensions during the holidays. Clay opens with updates on several major stories: authorities believe they have identified the suspect in the Brown University shooting, which left two students dead and 12 injured after 40 rounds were fired on campus. While no arrest has been made, investigators are also probing a possible link between this attack and the assassination of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, a nuclear weapons expert killed in his Boston home just days later. Clay underscores the chilling implications of these events and promises continued coverage as details emerge.

The hour also touches on tragic news from North Carolina, where NASCAR legend Greg Biffle reportedly died in a private plane crash en route to Florida, according to Daily Mail reports citing close friends. Clay then pivots to a heated media moment: Candace Owens’ explosive claims on Piers Morgan’s show, suggesting two Turning Point USA employees may have had foreknowledge of Charlie Kirk’s assassination—a theory Clay calls “loony bin crazy” and emblematic of a media ecosystem that rewards outrageous, unverified opinions. He contrasts this with a Washington Post profile of alleged assassin Tyler Robinson, detailing his radicalization, anti-Trump rage, and ties to trans activism, reinforcing what Clay sees as the clear ideological motive behind the killing.

From there, the conversation shifts to free speech and defamation law, as Clay critiques the outdated New York Times v. Sullivan standard that makes it nearly impossible for public figures to seek recourse against false claims. He argues that in today’s social media-driven culture, this precedent incentivizes reckless commentary and erodes accountability—a legal debate he predicts will shape the future of American media.

In the second half of the hour, psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert joins to offer strategies for surviving holiday gatherings with politically divided families. Alpert warns that “Trump Derangement Syndrome” has hardened into personality-level anger for some, fueling anxiety and family estrangement. His advice: prioritize relationships over politics, set boundaries, and redirect conversations to holiday traditions. Callers weigh in with personal stories and coping tactics, from walking away during heated debates to reaffirming shared values. Alpert also explores whether this intense polarization will persist beyond Trump’s presidency, concluding that while partisan hostility will remain, Trump’s outsider status amplified the vitriol to unprecedented levels.

Clay closes the hour with lighter fare, teasing a Christmas movie showdown for tomorrow’s show. He invites listeners to debate classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, Home Alone, and the perennial question: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? He even confesses his fondness for Love Actually, sparking playful controversy among fans.

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In this episode of It’s a Numbers Game, Ryan sits down with Father Nick Colalella to explore the deeper meaning of Catholic faith, scripture, and daily spiritual practice. Father Nick shares his personal journey to the priesthood and explains why understanding the Bible in its original languages can transform how Catholics read and live the Word of God. The conversation dives into the importance of regular Mass attendance, the reality of God’s forgiveness, and the essential role the Church plays in shaping a faithful and meaningful life. Father Nick also offers practical, accessible resources for those curious about Catholicism and reflects on the saints who continue to inspire his vocation. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic or simply exploring questions of faith, this thoughtful discussion offers insight into living out belief with purpose, discipline, and community.

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In this episode of Normally, hosts Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz explore the growing divide between online outrage and real-world community. They break down the political fallout from a recent Vanity Fair interview with Susie Wiles, analyze JD Vance’s sharp responses to media criticism about the article, and discuss the broader implications of the Mar-a-Lago raid. The episode also touches on how political narratives are shaped by elite media versus everyday experience. To close things out, Mary Katharine and Karol take a lighter turn, examining the viral “6-7” trend among kids and why fostering in-person, communal activities still matters more than ever.

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In this conversation, Karol Markowicz sits down with writer and commentator John Hawkins to discuss the evolution of blogging, political discourse, and cultural commentary in the digital age. Hawkins shares insights into his newest project, Culturcidal, a platform designed to move beyond clickbait and offer meaningful perspectives on culture, self-help, and personal growth.

Karol and John explore the challenges of forming real friendships in an increasingly online world, why people struggle to reach out, and how technology has reshaped human connection. Hawkins reflects on career decisions, lessons learned from working with a life coach, and how intentional action can change personal and professional outcomes.

Check out John's site HERE

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Vanity Unfair 

A sharp critique of White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles’ Vanity Fair interview, which Clay and Buck call a “colossal miscalculation.” They argue that granting extensive access to legacy media outlets like Vanity Fair is a strategic blunder, especially when the piece includes misleading claims about January 6 and cherry-picked quotes.  The discussion highlights lessons learned from Trump’s first term, the administration’s media strategy, and why conservatives should avoid seeking validation from elite publications.  

The conversation pivots to 2027 GOP dynamics, with Clay noting that JD Vance is positioned as a frontrunner for the Republican nomination, especially after Marco Rubio reportedly confirmed he won’t challenge Vance. The hosts also dissect internal tensions revealed in the Vanity Fair piece, including Susie Wiles’ harsh criticism of Pam Bondi over the Epstein controversy.

Thank You, Clay & Buck Audience

Clay and Buck reflect on the show’s growth in 2025, thanking listeners for helping expand to over 550 affiliate stations and previewing plans for more video content in 2026. From there, the conversation pivots to Zohran Mamdani’s controversial proposal for free buses in New York City, which he claims reduces assaults on drivers. Clay and Buck dismantle the logic behind this policy, arguing that eliminating fares incentivizes bad behavior and risks turning buses into “mobile homeless shelters.” They also discuss the broader implications of Mamdani’s socialist agenda and predict that any exodus from New York due to his policies will likely occur in spring and summer.

Sen. Rand Paul

An in-depth interview with Senator Rand Paul, covering critical issues from foreign policy to domestic economics. Senator Paul strongly opposes what he calls an “offensive war” in Venezuela, warning that U.S. military action to enforce a blockade and target suspected narco-boats amounts to regime change without congressional approval. He stresses constitutional limits on presidential war powers and criticizes the administration’s approach to interdiction, citing high error rates and ethical concerns about targeting unarmed individuals.

On Trump’s first year of his second term, Rand Paul gives the administration an “A triple plus” for securing the southern border and maintaining tax cuts, while blasting both parties for runaway spending and ballooning debt. He calls for a balanced budget and entitlement reform as urgent priorities heading into 2026. The discussion then shifts to healthcare policy, where Paul advocates for association health plans, interstate insurance purchasing, and universal health savings accounts to lower costs without taxpayer subsidies.

The hour also tackles America’s affordability crisis, with Paul linking soaring housing prices and inflation to reckless government spending and Federal Reserve monetary policy. He warns that rent control and socialist policies—like those embraced by New York’s new mayor—will worsen housing shortages and economic inequality. Clay and Buck underscore that affordability will dominate the 2026 midterms, framing it as a kitchen-table issue for millions of voters.

Remembering Clay's Uncle

Clay remembers his Uncle Kenneth, an 84-year-old Vietnam Vet, and reminds everyone to thank the veterans in their life and appreciate family while they are still with you. 

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