David Rutherford Show: How Venezuela Became a Launchpad for America’s Enemies

When Politics and Pop Culture Collide Clay and Buck spotlight how the incident dominated headlines and even infiltrated pop culture over the weekend, with celebrities and NBA coaches spreading misinformation. At the Golden Globes, comedian Wanda Sykes wore a pin honoring Renee Good and called the shooting “murder,” while NBA coaches Steve Kerr and Doc Rivers echoed similar claims during post-game press conferences, accusing ICE agents of committing murder and framing the enforcement of immigration law as racist. The hosts dismantle these narratives, citing video evidence showing Good obstructed ICE operations by parking her car perpendicular in the road and refusing to comply, making the shooting a lawful act of self-defense.  But did any of you hear about Harold Harper?  He was the unarmed elderly white man shot in the back by a black man while he was gardening in his front yard in Florida.  Where are the chants to say his name?   The White Liberal Woman Problem Democrats and activist networks are manufacturing outrage over what federal authorities confirm was a lawful use of force. They argue that progressive rhetoric and organized protests are deliberately designed to provoke violent confrontations, citing reports that left-wing groups train activists to obstruct ICE operations and create viral flashpoints. The hosts call for stricter enforcement, including arresting individuals who block immigration raids and even prosecuting those who incite dangerous behavior—such as the partner who shouted “Drive baby drive” moments before the fatal incident.  Clay and Buck play a flashback clip from last October from Chicago, ILL superintendent of police, Larry Snelling, telling city residents not to box in ICE or other law enforcement because it's considered a threat and they can respond with deadly force. The conversation expands to a Portland shooting involving Customs and Border Protection agents, where two suspected members of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua cartel attempted to ram law enforcement vehicles. Buck underscores the cartel’s brutality—highlighting its ties to transnational crime and terrorism—while criticizing Portland Police Chief Bob Day for prioritizing performative apologies over public safety. Clay and Buck argue that progressive leadership in cities like Portland has created lawless environments where criminal gangs thrive, eroding trust in law enforcement and endangering communities. The WWIII People are Wrong Clay and Buck analyze two weeks of massive protests across Iran, sparked by runaway inflation and economic collapse following the failed 12-day war against Israel. The demonstrations began with merchants refusing to sell goods as the Iranian currency became nearly worthless, and have since spread nationwide despite brutal crackdowns and thousands of reported deaths. The hosts highlight the stark contrast between the silence of American college campuses on this issue and their previous activism for Gaza, arguing that identity politics drives selective outrage—since Iranians resisting a theocracy don’t fit the left’s preferred narrative. The discussion explores the historical and geopolitical context of Iran’s Islamic regime, which has ruled since 1979 and transformed a once-modern nation into a failed state. Clay and Buck compare Iran’s decline to Venezuela’s collapse under socialism, noting that both nations squandered vast natural resources through authoritarian mismanagement. They revisit the Obama administration’s misguided nuclear deal strategy, which prioritized appeasement over supporting Iranian freedom, and stress that the regime’s survival perpetuates terrorism and instability across the Middle East. The hosts debate potential U.S. responses, weighing the risks of direct intervention against strategic strikes on IRGC and Basij strongholds. They caution that overt American involvement could allow Tehran to frame the uprising as foreign interference, yet argue that targeted actions might accelerate regime collapse without requiring “boots on the ground.” Iran's Berlin Wall Moment? Listeners with Iranian roots join the conversation, offering passionate firsthand perspectives. Callers describe life before the revolution—when Iran embraced Western freedoms—and advocate for a return to democratic governance, possibly under exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a transitional figure. They emphasize that Iranians overwhelmingly reject the current regime and would welcome U.S. and Israeli support through precision strikes rather than occupation. Buck explains the complexity of regime change, noting that palace coups and insider defections historically pose the greatest threat to authoritarian systems, while Clay underscores the uncertainty of what comes next if the Ayatollah falls. Both agree that any solution must be authentically driven by the Iranian people to avoid repeating mistakes from Iraq and Afghanistan. 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 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show kicks off the week with a fiery breakdown of the Minneapolis ICE shooting controversy and its ripple effects across politics, sports, and entertainment. Clay and Buck spotlight how the incident dominated headlines and even infiltrated pop culture over the weekend, with celebrities and NBA coaches spreading misinformation. At the Golden Globes, comedian Wanda Sykes wore a pin honoring Renee Good and called the shooting “murder,” while NBA coaches Steve Kerr and Doc Rivers echoed similar claims during post-game press conferences, accusing ICE agents of committing murder and framing the enforcement of immigration law as racist. The hosts dismantle these narratives, citing video evidence showing Good obstructed ICE operations by parking her car perpendicular in the road and refusing to comply, making the shooting a lawful act of self-defense. But did any of you hear about Harold Harper?  He was the unarmed elderly white man shot in the back by a black man while he was gardening in his front yard in Florida.  Where are the chants to say his name?   Clay and Buck argue that Democrats and activist networks are deliberately creating confrontational scenarios to undermine immigration enforcement and vilify federal officers. They highlight organized protests in Minneapolis featuring agitators banging drums and screaming in ICE agents’ faces, as well as land acknowledgments claiming “no one is illegal on stolen land.” The hosts expose the hypocrisy of these arguments, noting that left-wing activists reject the rule of law while embracing performative gestures rooted in race-based ideology. They also discuss the Trump administration’s surge of 1,000 additional ICE agents to Minneapolis, reinforcing its commitment to deporting illegal immigrants—an effort that has already removed an estimated 2.5 million individuals from the country. The conversation expands to broader immigration policy, warning that Democrats aim to reverse enforcement measures if they regain power. Clay and Buck stress that immigration law exists to protect public safety and sovereignty, and obstructing ICE operations is both dangerous and criminal. They compare this tactic to federal laws that harshly penalize blocking abortion clinics, underscoring what they see as selective enforcement and political opportunism. Hour 1 also touches on cultural absurdities, including Georgetown University’s campus tours beginning with land acknowledgments and the ideological drift of elite institutions. The hosts critique the left’s fixation on “stolen land” rhetoric and dismantle romanticized myths about pre-colonial societies, citing historical evidence of tribal warfare and primitive living conditions. They argue that modern infrastructure and governance have delivered immense progress compared to the Stone Age realities of indigenous life. This hour blends breaking news, cultural analysis, and historical perspective, making it essential listening for anyone tracking the intersection of immigration enforcement, media bias, and progressive activism. 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 delivers a hard-hitting analysis of the Minneapolis ICE shooting controversy and the broader cultural and political narratives surrounding immigration enforcement. Clay and Buck begin by exposing how Democrats and activist networks are manufacturing outrage over what federal authorities confirm was a lawful use of force. They argue that progressive rhetoric and organized protests are deliberately designed to provoke violent confrontations, citing reports that left-wing groups train activists to obstruct ICE operations and create viral flashpoints. The hosts call for stricter enforcement, including arresting individuals who block immigration raids and even prosecuting those who incite dangerous behavior—such as the partner who shouted “Drive baby drive” moments before the fatal incident. The conversation expands to a Portland shooting involving Customs and Border Protection agents, where two suspected members of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua cartel attempted to ram law enforcement vehicles. Buck underscores the cartel’s brutality—highlighting its ties to transnational crime and terrorism—while criticizing Portland Police Chief Bob Day for prioritizing performative apologies over public safety. Clay and Buck argue that progressive leadership in cities like Portland has created lawless environments where criminal gangs thrive, eroding trust in law enforcement and endangering communities. From immigration enforcement, the discussion pivots to California’s proposed 5% wealth tax on billionaires, which is triggering an exodus of tech elites such as Larry Page, Sergey Brin, and David Sacks to states like Florida and Texas. The hosts blast the hypocrisy of Silicon Valley billionaires who funded woke policies only to flee when those same policies threaten their fortunes. They warn that punitive taxation and progressive governance are accelerating economic decline in blue states while strengthening red-state economies under leaders like Governor Ron DeSantis. Hour 2 also tackles celebrity influence and misinformation, responding to recent comments from Wanda Sykes, Steve Kerr, and Doc Rivers, who falsely labeled the ICE shooting as “murder.” Clay and Buck argue that celebrity activism distorts facts and manipulates public opinion, making it critical for listeners to push back against narratives that undermine law and order. They further highlight Ilhan Omar’s controversial remarks, which suggest ICE agents should avoid danger rather than enforce the law—a stance the hosts call absurd and dangerous. This hour blends breaking news, cultural critique, and economic insight, offering listeners a clear-eyed perspective on immigration enforcement battles, progressive hypocrisy, and the political realignment reshaping America. 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 shifts focus to what could be the most consequential global story of the year: the growing Iranian uprising against the Ayatollah’s regime. Clay and Buck analyze two weeks of massive protests across Iran, sparked by runaway inflation and economic collapse following the failed 12-day war against Israel. The demonstrations began with merchants refusing to sell goods as the Iranian currency became nearly worthless, and have since spread nationwide despite brutal crackdowns and thousands of reported deaths. The hosts highlight the stark contrast between the silence of American college campuses on this issue and their previous activism for Gaza, arguing that identity politics drives selective outrage—since Iranians resisting a theocracy don’t fit the left’s preferred narrative. The discussion explores the historical and geopolitical context of Iran’s Islamic regime, which has ruled since 1979 and transformed a once-modern nation into a failed state. Clay and Buck compare Iran’s decline to Venezuela’s collapse under socialism, noting that both nations squandered vast natural resources through authoritarian mismanagement. They revisit the Obama administration’s misguided nuclear deal strategy, which prioritized appeasement over supporting Iranian freedom, and stress that the regime’s survival perpetuates terrorism and instability across the Middle East. The hosts debate potential U.S. responses, weighing the risks of direct intervention against strategic strikes on IRGC and Basij strongholds. They caution that overt American involvement could allow Tehran to frame the uprising as foreign interference, yet argue that targeted actions might accelerate regime collapse without requiring “boots on the ground.” Listeners with Iranian roots join the conversation, offering passionate firsthand perspectives. Callers describe life before the revolution—when Iran embraced Western freedoms—and advocate for a return to democratic governance, possibly under exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a transitional figure. They emphasize that Iranians overwhelmingly reject the current regime and would welcome U.S. and Israeli support through precision strikes rather than occupation. Buck explains the complexity of regime change, noting that palace coups and insider defections historically pose the greatest threat to authoritarian systems, while Clay underscores the uncertainty of what comes next if the Ayatollah falls. Both agree that any solution must be authentically driven by the Iranian people to avoid repeating mistakes from Iraq and Afghanistan. Hour 3 closes by framing this moment as potentially Iran’s Berlin Wall event, with global implications for freedom, Islam’s political trajectory, and U.S. foreign policy under President Trump. The segment also previews tomorrow’s Supreme Court case on transgender athletes, promising another major cultural debate. This hour delivers a compelling mix of breaking international news, historical analysis, and real voices from the Iranian diaspora, making it essential listening for anyone following Middle East politics and America’s role in shaping global democracy. 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.

In this episode, Ryan Girdusky breaks down The Numbers Behind one of the most contentious national news stories — the fatal Minneapolis shooting involving a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent and a civilian during a federal enforcement operation, analyzing available video footage and the conflicting narratives from federal officials and local leaders. From there, Ryan explores how this incident fits into broader debates on immigration enforcement, law and order, and public perception. He then shifts to a deep dive into U.S. demographic trends, unpacking the data on population decline, fertility rates, and the looming implications for Social Security and future economic stability. EMAIL RYANFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

📍Rick de la Torre, former Chief of Station in Venezuela, joins David Rutherford to expose the hidden intelligence networks, communist expansion, and foreign power operations that turned Venezuela into a criminal state — and a global launchpad for America’s enemies. From Cuban intelligence control of Maduro, to Russia, China, Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah using Venezuela as a base, this conversation reveals the real shadow war shaping the Western Hemisphere. Rick explains:• How Cuba actually runs Venezuela• Why communism resurged across Latin America• How oil became a weapon of global power• Why the U.S. lost focus on the hemisphere• And why a new geopolitical shift is underway right now Next Steps: 🏫 Get coaching by David Rutherford: https://www.froglogicinstitute.com/ 📕 Get David's novel, The Poet Warrior: https://www.ballastbooks.com/ballast-bookstore/the-poet-warrior 📰 Sign up for David's weekly newsletter for free coaching tips, updates, and more: https://davidrutherfordletter.substack.com/ Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Tudor Dixon Podcast, Tudor is joined by Jorge Jraissati, Venezuelan native and president of the Economic Inclusion Group, to break down the stunning capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and what it means for the future of the region. They examine Venezuela’s economic collapse, the consequences of socialist government policies, and the devastating decline of the oil industry. The conversation also explores China’s growing influence in Latin America, the geopolitical stakes for the United States, and why strong U.S. foreign policy is critical to regional stability. Jorge shares his vision for rebuilding Venezuela, the obstacles ahead, and why economic freedom is key to restoring prosperity.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clay and Buck dive into the fallout from the historic Delta Force raid in Venezuela, which captured Nicolás Maduro and killed 32 Cuban bodyguards once considered elite. They explore the strategic implications of Operation Absolute Resolve, framing it as a modern reaffirmation of the Monroe Doctrine and a bold move by President Trump to reassert U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The hosts discuss how this operation signals a shift in global power dynamics, undermining Chinese and Russian influence and exposing the weakness of authoritarian regimes like Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran. The conversation also examines why Maduro’s vice president may now cooperate with the U.S., speculating on backchannel intelligence ties and the leverage America holds through oil production. Clay and Buck contrast Trump’s decisive leadership with past foreign policy failures, emphasizing lessons learned from Iraq and the importance of working with existing power structures rather than dismantling them. They argue that Trump’s approach could accelerate the collapse of socialism and communism in Latin America, likening this moment to the geopolitical realignment after the fall of the Berlin Wall. An in-depth interview with David Rutherford (aka Rut) former Navy SEAL and host on the Clay & Buck Podcast Network. Rutherford calls the Maduro operation “one of the top five best ops ever,” detailing the complexity, flawless coordination, and elite performance of JSOC units, Delta Force, and the 160th SOAR pilots. He compares the raid’s scale and sophistication to the Osama bin Laden mission, arguing that this operation was even more impressive. Rutherford emphasizes its global implications, warning cartels and hostile regimes that America is “done playing games” and projecting power with precision. He predicts increased operational tempo against Mexican cartels and underscores how this mission reshapes global power dynamics. 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.

OpenTable is turning the tables. Father-in-Laws. Buck despises speakerphones and does a PSA. What’s your position on tipping - has it gone too far? More dating advice from the guys. 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 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show launches the first Tuesday of 2026 with major political and geopolitical analysis. Clay and Buck dive into the fallout from the historic Delta Force raid in Venezuela, which captured Nicolás Maduro and killed 32 Cuban bodyguards once considered elite. They explore the strategic implications of Operation Absolute Resolve, framing it as a modern reaffirmation of the Monroe Doctrine and a bold move by President Trump to reassert U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The hosts discuss how this operation signals a shift in global power dynamics, undermining Chinese and Russian influence and exposing the weakness of authoritarian regimes like Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran. The conversation also examines why Maduro’s vice president may now cooperate with the U.S., speculating on backchannel intelligence ties and the leverage America holds through oil production. Clay and Buck contrast Trump’s decisive leadership with past foreign policy failures, emphasizing lessons learned from Iraq and the importance of working with existing power structures rather than dismantling them. They argue that Trump’s approach could accelerate the collapse of socialism and communism in Latin America, likening this moment to the geopolitical realignment after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Domestically, Hour 1 tackles the political implosion of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, whose career unraveled after his selection as Kamala Harris’s VP candidate brought national attention to the Somali daycare fraud scandal. Clay and Buck mock Democrats’ failed strategy to appeal to male voters by presenting Walz as an “avatar of masculinity,” calling him inauthentic and contrasting him with figures like Ron DeSantis. They speculate that Harris might have fared better with a different running mate, such as Gretchen Whitmer, and highlight how identity politics backfired spectacularly. The hour also features sharp commentary on Cuba’s role in Maduro’s security, the legacy of Cold War-era Cuban intelligence training by the KGB, and the stunning superiority of U.S. special forces. Clay and Buck discuss broader territorial ambitions, including provocative ideas about making Cuba or even Greenland U.S. protectorates, citing historical precedents like Ulysses Grant’s failed plan to annex the Dominican Republic. They underscore how Trump’s foreign policy strength contrasts with decades of indecision, positioning America as a global power willing to act decisively. Hour 1 closes with cultural and personal anecdotes, including Clay’s Caribbean holiday, Buck’s family updates, and playful banter about masculinity, home repair skills, and even hypothetical exile destinations for deposed dictators. The segment sets the tone for a year of bold analysis, humor, and unapologetic takes on politics, national security, and American strength. 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.