Buck Brief - The Biggest, Most Important Story of 2025

🎄In this special Christmas episode of The David Rutherford Show, Rut explores the true meaning of Christmas — the birth of Christ, the origin of faith, and why sacrifice is the foundation of meaning, courage, and civilization. From ancient tribal survival to biblical prophecy and modern chaos, Rut explains how faith shapes strong men, strong families, and free societies. This is not religion as an accessory — this is faith as a living force that governs who you become.Watch now and plant the right seeds in your soul.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Lisa breaks down the explosive Minnesota fraud scandal involving federal child nutrition funds, she is joined by former federal prosecutor Joe Teirab who examines how millions of taxpayer dollars were misused through weak oversight and regulatory failures. The conversation exposes how easily the system was exploited, the role of political actors and government agencies, and why accountability mechanisms failed to stop the fraud sooner. Lisa and Joe also explore ongoing efforts to recover stolen funds, disturbing links between fraud proceeds and terrorist financing, and the broader national implications—raising serious questions about whether similar schemes could be unfolding in other states. With taxpayers left footing the bill, this episode highlights the urgent need for government reform, stricter oversight, and real consequences to prevent future abuse of federal aid programs.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, guest-hosted by Brett Winterble from WBT in Charlotte, kicks off with optimism and hard-hitting analysis of America’s economic resurgence and political battles as 2025 closes. Brett opens by celebrating blockbuster economic news: U.S. GDP surged 4.3% in the third quarter, the fastest growth in two years and far above economists’ 3.2% forecast. Consumer spending also jumped 3.5%, signaling strong confidence and reinforcing President Trump’s America First economic agenda. Winterble frames this as kryptonite for Democrats, whose impeachment-focused strategy falters against robust growth and rising optimism heading into 2026. The hour contrasts Trump’s pro-growth policies with the Biden-era failures, blasting the previous administration for prioritizing DEI initiatives and identity politics over prosperity. Brett warns that Democrats have no credible economic plan, relying instead on divisive cultural narratives and regulatory overreach. He cites the Schumer shutdown’s delay of economic reports as evidence of political gamesmanship aimed at obscuring Trump’s success. Meanwhile, Trump’s leadership is credited with restoring confidence, strengthening the military, and rewarding service members with $1,776 bonuses, a stark reversal from Biden’s controversial vaccine mandates that purged troops from the ranks. Immigration and fraud scandals also dominate the discussion. Brett spotlights the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an illegal immigrant linked to trafficking, after a judge blocked his deportation, calling this emblematic of Democratic priorities that undermine law enforcement and national security. He then pivots to the Minnesota welfare fraud scandal, where up to $9–18 billion was allegedly stolen from federally funded programs. In response, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks introduced the Welfare Abuse and Laundering Zillions (WALLS) Act, requiring HHS to investigate entitlement programs with sudden spending spikes, aiming to prevent systemic abuse and protect taxpayers. Listeners join the conversation with sharp insights on political corruption, immigration, and cultural shifts. Brett amplifies concerns about Democratic efforts to dilute conservative influence through mass migration and identity-driven policies, citing Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s remarks praising the Somali community as an example of virtue signaling overshadowing accountability. He underscores that immigration must be legal and vetted, warning against policies that prioritize ideology over security. The hour closes with a look ahead to Federal Reserve policy, as economist Kevin Hassett—considered a leading candidate to replace Jerome Powell—calls for aggressive interest rate cuts to sustain growth amid an AI-driven productivity boom. Brett frames this as part of Trump’s broader strategy to supercharge the economy while Democrats remain fixated on distractions like the Epstein files, which recent reports confirm contain no damaging information about Trump. Make sure you never miss a second of the show by subscribing to the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton show podcast wherever you get your podcasts! ihr.fm/3InlkL8   For the latest updates from Clay & Buck, visit our website https://www.clayandbuck.com/   Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton:  X - https://x.com/clayandbuck FB - https://www.facebook.com/ClayandBuck/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/clayandbuck/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuck Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/ClayandBuck TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@clayandbuckFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, guest-hosted by Brett Winterble from WBT in Charlotte, delivers a powerful mix of cultural, legal, and national security analysis alongside economic debate. Brett opens with a major legal development out of California: a federal judge struck down state policies that allowed schools to hide students’ gender identity changes from parents. Judge Roger T. Benitez issued a permanent injunction barring educators from misleading parents or using different pronouns and names without parental knowledge. Brett emphasizes the ruling as a victory for parental rights and the First Amendment, arguing that teachers should not be forced into secrecy or ideological compliance. He calls out the undue burden placed on educators and frames the decision as a pushback against progressive overreach in public education.   The conversation then pivots to Representative Ayanna Pressley’s remarks on gender-affirming care, where she equated treatment for gender dysphoria with urgent medical needs like broken bones and diabetes. Brett critiques the inclusion of taxpayer-funded gender transitions under Medicaid, questioning priorities when veterans and vulnerable populations struggle to access basic healthcare. He warns that such policies exemplify the left’s incremental approach to expanding government control over personal and family decisions.   Midway through the hour, Brett welcomes Bill Roggio of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Long War Journal for an in-depth discussion on global terrorism following the ISIS-inspired Bondi Beach attack in Australia, which targeted Jewish worshippers during Hanukkah. Roggio dismantles the myth that ISIS is defeated, explaining how jihadist networks remain active in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East through recruitment, training, and financing via criminal enterprises, crypto transfers, and hawala systems. He highlights the Philippines as a training hub and warns that attacks like Bondi demonstrate ISIS’s ability to adapt and exploit security gaps. Roggio also raises alarms about the Minnesota welfare fraud scandal, suggesting that stolen funds could have been funneled to extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, given historical ties between Somali-American communities and jihadist recruitment. He underscores the likelihood that even a fraction of the $9–18 billion lost could significantly bolster terror operations abroad.   The segment closes with a sobering look at emerging threats in Syria, where two U.S. soldiers were killed by a member of Syrian security forces. Roggio questions official narratives blaming ISIS, noting the group’s silence and pointing to deeper complexities involving Islamist factions within the Syrian government. Brett ties these insights to domestic vulnerabilities, warning that terrorists study attacks like the Brown University shooting to replicate tactics against soft targets. Finally, Brett engages listeners on Trump’s tariff policies, responding to a caller critical of protectionism. He defends reciprocal tariffs as leverage to secure fair trade deals, arguing that America’s economic strength allows it to dictate terms and protect domestic industries. This spirited debate underscores broader themes of sovereignty, economic resilience, and national security that define the hour. Make sure you never miss a second of the show by subscribing to the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton show podcast wherever you get your podcasts! ihr.fm/3InlkL8   For the latest updates from Clay & Buck, visit our website https://www.clayandbuck.com/   Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton:  X - https://x.com/clayandbuck FB - https://www.facebook.com/ClayandBuck/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/clayandbuck/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuck Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/ClayandBuck TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@clayandbuckFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, guest-hosted by Brett Winterble from WBT in Charlotte, delivers an inspiring mix of space exploration news, cultural commentary, and a deep dive into the meaning of Christmas. Brett opens the hour celebrating America’s renewed ambition with NASA’s Artemis II mission, scheduled for February 2026. This historic launch will send four astronauts—including NASA’s Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen—on a daring journey around the moon, marking the first human lunar orbit in over 50 years. Brett frames this as a symbol of American exceptionalism and a return to bold achievements after decades of caution, contrasting today’s optimism with past administrations that downplayed U.S. leadership. He argues that space exploration reflects the nation’s founding principles of liberty, innovation, and perseverance, reminding listeners that America thrives when it embraces big challenges. The conversation then shifts to domestic security and constitutional rights, sparked by a caller advocating for non-lethal weapons in schools as a deterrent against shootings. Brett explores the failure of gun-free zones and emphasizes the importance of exercising constitutional rights to protect students and teachers. He warns that progressive policies often prioritize ideology over safety, leaving soft targets vulnerable. Another caller weighs in on Trump’s tariff strategy, framing tariffs as a negotiating tool for fair trade rather than a permanent policy. Brett agrees, arguing that reciprocal tariffs level the playing field and safeguard American industries in a global economy. In the latter half of the hour, Brett welcomes Father Bill Nicholas for a profound discussion on the theological and historical dimensions of Christmas. Father Bill explains how the birth of Jesus occurred under an imperial census, highlighting its political context and parallels to modern debates on governance and morality. He explores themes of vulnerability and true power, noting that Christ’s birth in a humble stable redefined kingship and challenged societal elitism. The conversation delves into the Gospel of John’s portrayal of the Incarnation—“The Word became flesh”—as both a birth narrative and a creation story, fulfilling God’s covenant with David through divine intervention. Father Bill also draws connections between ancient practices like child sacrifice and contemporary issues such as abortion, warning that secularization erodes respect for life and faith. The segment concludes with reflections on inclusivity, the call to serve the marginalized, and a blessing for listeners as they prepare to celebrate Christmas. Make sure you never miss a second of the show by subscribing to the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton show podcast wherever you get your podcasts! ihr.fm/3InlkL8   For the latest updates from Clay & Buck, visit our website https://www.clayandbuck.com/   Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton:  X - https://x.com/clayandbuck FB - https://www.facebook.com/ClayandBuck/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/clayandbuck/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuck Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/ClayandBuck TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@clayandbuck Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What was the most important story of 2025? Buck reflects on the year’s biggest developments, arguing that immigration and the rapid securing of the border defined the national conversation. He also shares personal reflections on a milestone year, from becoming a father to looking ahead to what 2026 may bring for the country, politics, and everyday life. Never miss a moment from Buck by subscribing to the Buck Sexton Show Podcast on IHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts!    Connect with Buck Sexton:Facebook –   / bucksexton  X –  @bucksexton  Instagram –   @bucksexton TikTok - @BuckSexton                                                                                   YouTube - @BuckSexton   Website – https://www.bucksexton.com/Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Stephen Loyd joins Wellness Unmasked and breaks down the current state of the opioid crisis in America, with a particular focus on the deadly impact of fentanyl and the failures of the existing addiction treatment system. He explores how addiction intersects with the criminal justice system, arguing that punishment-based approaches have fallen short while life-saving treatment options remain underutilized. Dr. Loyd emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reform in addiction treatment, calling for policies that prioritize measurable outcomes over bureaucratic metrics. He also highlights the critical role of community support, leadership accountability, and the widespread availability of overdose reversal drugs like Narcan in preventing unnecessary deaths. Learn more about Dr. Stephen Loyd HEREFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mary Katharine Ham & Karol Markowicz tackle one of the biggest challenges facing modern families: balancing career ambition with raising children. They push back on the idea that parents must choose between professional success and family life, sharing insights on how supportive relationships and strong community connections make it possible to have both. The episode dives into practical parenting strategies, including sleep training and navigating early childhood routines, while also addressing the realities of raising kids in urban environments.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Ryan delivers a sharp critique of Vivek Ramaswamy’s recent remarks on American identity and citizenship. Ryan examines Ramaswamy’s comments about “heritage Americans,” contrasts them with his personal background, and highlights what he sees as deep contradictions in Ramaswamy’s political philosophy. He argues that Ramaswamy’s ideology is less about preserving American values and more about consolidating personal power. Ryan explores how this rhetoric is shaping the conservative movement, influencing debates over national identity, and impacting broader American society. Email Ryan Your QuestionsFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, guest-hosted by Brett Winterble from News Talk 1110 & 99.3 WBT in Charlotte, North Carolina, delivers a fast-paced and insightful discussion on the state of American politics, culture, and the economy as we head into 2026. Brett opens by contrasting the energy and optimism surrounding the conservative movement with the stagnation and radicalism dominating the Democratic Party. He argues that the left is still clinging to outdated policies reminiscent of FDR-era economics, citing Joe Biden’s failed debt forgiveness plan and regulatory overreach as examples of a government obsessed with “priming the pump” rather than fostering innovation and freedom. Winterble highlights the dramatic turnaround under President Trump’s leadership, emphasizing four key pillars driving the administration’s success: economy, culture, faith, and strength. He points to recent positive economic indicators, including falling inflation rates that stunned analysts like CNBC’s Steve Liesman, as proof that removing government interference has unleashed growth. Brett also underscores America’s renewed global respect and stronger border security, contrasting this with the chaos seen in progressive strongholds and elite institutions, referencing recent unrest at Brown University and the Bondi Beach attack as symptoms of failed leftist ideology. A major theme of the hour is the resurgence of faith and traditional values in American politics. Brett plays a powerful clip from Vice President J.D. Vance’s Turning Point USA speech, where Vance calls for a “true Christian politics” that prioritizes family, dignity of work, and care for the poor while condemning corporate outsourcing and immigration fraud. Winterble frames this as a moral and spiritual battle for the soul of the nation, arguing that Trump’s policies have ended the cultural war on Christianity and restored principles that resonate deeply during the Christmas and Hanukkah season. The hour also features lively listener calls tackling critical issues such as midterm election strategy, GOP unity, and kitchen-table concerns like skyrocketing food prices. Callers stress the importance of candidate recruitment, voter turnout, and fighting back against entrenched political corruption. Brett responds by explaining Senate procedural realities, including Mike Lee’s remarks on cloture and the myth of the 60-vote threshold, while urging conservatives to stay engaged and proactive. In closing, Brett reflects on America’s enduring promise and the need for moral clarity, historical perspective, and cultural courage to preserve freedom. He reminds listeners that the conservative movement’s strength lies in its ability to persuade and unite, not retreat into hopelessness. This first hour sets the tone for a day of spirited conversation, blending political analysis, historical context, and calls to action for a movement energized by faith, freedom, and the fight against radicalism. Make sure you never miss a second of the show by subscribing to the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton show podcast wherever you get your podcasts! ihr.fm/3InlkL8   For the latest updates from Clay & Buck, visit our website https://www.clayandbuck.com/   Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton:  X - https://x.com/clayandbuck FB - https://www.facebook.com/ClayandBuck/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/clayandbuck/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuck Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/ClayandBuck TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@clayandbuckFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.