U.S. Hits Venezuela Drug Hub plus FBI, DHS, ICE Storm Fraudesota

Main Allegation: Widespread fraud in Minnesota involving daycare centers, childcare programs, and pandemic relief funds. Fraud allegedly linked to Somali immigrant communities, with claims that stolen funds were sent overseas and possibly tied to terrorist organizations like Al Shabab. Federal Response: Trump administration froze $185 million in childcare funds to Minnesota. Actions include: Defend the Spend system requiring receipts/photo evidence before payments. Demand letter to Governor Tim Walz for a full review of childcare centers. Launch of a fraud reporting hotline. FBI and DHS expanded investigations, deploying agents for large-scale enforcement operations. Political Fallout: Representative Ilhan Omar accused of downplaying fraud and facing scrutiny over her reported net worth increase (up to $30 million). Senator John Kennedy condemned the scandal as “a clown world on steroids” during a Senate speech. House Oversight Committee plans subpoenas for Minnesota officials, including Governor Walz. Vice President JD Vance and other Republicans frame the scandal as systemic immigration fraud. Media and Narrative: Mainstream media (MSNBC, The New York Times) are dismissing the fraud claims as racist scapegoating. Democrats are complicit, claiming fraud was tolerated to buy votes. Scale of Fraud: Over $1 billion stolen, 87 people charged (mostly Somali descent), 61 convictions so far. Feeding Our Future scandal alone involved $300 million in pandemic relief funds. 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.

Main Allegation: Widespread fraud in Minnesota’s childcare programs, allegedly involving fake daycare centers and misuse of federal funds over the past decade. Federal Response: The Trump administration froze $185 million in federal childcare funds to Minnesota. Actions announced by Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill include: Activation of the “Defend the Spend” system requiring receipts or photo evidence before payments. A demand letter to Governor Tim Walz for a full review of childcare centers. Launch of a fraud reporting hotline and email. FBI and DHS expanded investigations, deploying additional agents to dismantle large-scale fraud operations. Political Angle: Governor Tim Walz and Democrats are negligent or complicit. The fraud is linked to Somali immigrant communities and compared to organized crime. Democrats tolerate fraud to secure votes and maintain political power. Media Reaction: MSNBC and The New York Times framed criticism as racist, accusing Republicans of scapegoating Somali immigrants. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fraud Allegations A reported $9+ billion fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid and childcare programs. Fraud schemes allegedly involved fake daycare centers, autism centers, and home healthcare providers. Claims that funds were diverted to terrorist groups like Al Shabaab. Actors and Accountability Somali immigrants are the primary perpetrators. Minnesota politicians (e.g., Governor Tim Walz) for alleged complicity or negligence. DOJ and FBI investigations mentioned, with 98 individuals charged, 85 of Somali descent. Political Narrative Fraud was tolerated to secure votes and maintain political power by Democrats. Systemic corruption and links to Democratic strategies involving welfare dependency. Media Criticism Mainstream media is ignoring or downplaying the scandal. There is bias and a political cover-up. Federal Response Actions by HHS and other agencies are needed to tighten oversight and stop fraudulent payments. Highlights statements from officials and references to Elon Musk’s earlier warnings about entitlement fraud. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. U.S. Military Action in Venezuela President Donald Trump announced the first known U.S. strike on land in Venezuela, targeting a drug-loading site. The operation is part of a broader pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's government. Trump says 97% of drug trafficking by sea has been stopped and emphasizes the life-saving impact of these operations. Mentions covert operations authorized by Trump and a lack of official confirmation from U.S. agencies. 2. Middle East Diplomacy and Iran Details Trump's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago. Discusses U.S.-Israeli cooperation, the Gaza peace plan, and concerns about Iran's missile and nuclear ambitions. Reports suggest Iran may be pursuing chemical and biological warheads, raising global security concerns. Trump warns of severe consequences if Iran resumes missile or nuclear programs, signaling readiness for military action. 3. Domestic Issue: Minnesota Fraud Scandal Allegations of large-scale fraud involving childcare programs and federal funds in Minnesota. Governor Tim Walz and his response, including comments about welcoming more Somali immigrants despite fraud concerns. Federal investigations by DHS, FBI, and ICE into fraud schemes, with potential immigration enforcement implications. 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. Minnesota Fraud Scandal:                 Minnesota lets voters 'vouch' for up to 8 others (SEE STORY HERE) Allegations of massive fraud in childcare programs and federal aid schemes in Minnesota, involving Somali-linked organizations. Governor Tim Walz for refused to apologize and instead advocating for welcoming more Somali immigrants, despite fraud concerns. Walz relies on Somali voting blocs for reelection. Details a federal crackdown: DHS, FBI, and ICE are conducting investigations, raids, and immigration checks. Officials describe the fraud as potentially “the tip of a very large iceberg”, involving hundreds of millions or billions of dollars. Trump administration is taking decisive action to restore law and order. 2. Trump’s Diplomatic Moves Trump’s Mar-a-Lago meeting with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The following is emphasized: Strong U.S.-Israel alliance, dismissing media claims of tension. Discussions on Middle East peace plans, Gaza reconstruction, and Iran’s pursuit of chemical and biological warheads. Trump’s warning: Iran will face immediate military action if it resumes missile or nuclear programs. Trump’s diplomatic engagement with Zelensky and Putin, signaling progress toward a Russia-Ukraine peace framework and offering Ukraine a 15-year U.S. security guarantee. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Scandal Fraud schemes allegedly involve billions of dollars across multiple programs: childcare assistance, autism centers, and home healthcare. Daycare centers licensed for dozens of children reportedly received $1–$3 million annually, yet appeared empty or inactive during visits. Some facilities had blocked windows, locked doors, and no visible signs of operation. Nick Shirley’s Investigation Shirley created a 42-minute viral video by visiting addresses listed on Minnesota’s official government site for childcare funding. He documented $110 million in questionable payments in one day of investigation. His approach was simple: knock on doors, ask questions, and record the lack of activity. Examples of Fraudulent Activity Quality Learning Center misspelled its sign as “Quality Leering Center” yet received $1.9 million in 2025. Super Kids Daycare Center reopened under a new name after being shut down for violations, continuing to receive millions. A single building housed 14 home healthcare companies, allegedly funneling $15–$16 million annually. FBI and Legal Action FBI Director Cash Patel confirmed the fraud investigation is a top priority, calling it “the tip of a very large iceberg.” Previous cases tied to the Feeding Our Future network led to $250 million in fraud uncovered, 78 indictments, and 57 convictions. Some defendants attempted to bribe a juror with $120,000 cash; sentences included 10 years in prison and $48 million restitution. Possible denaturalization and deportation proceedings for those involved. Political and Social Commentary Criticism of Minnesota’s leadership, particularly Governor Tim Walz, for alleged mismanagement and enabling fraud. Media accused of ignoring the story, leaving a YouTuber to expose what major outlets failed to investigate. Mentions of racial tension during confrontations, with accusations of racism and hostility toward Mr. Shirley 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.

Scale of Fraud: FBI Director Cash Patel confirmed that the fraud is extensive, describing it as “just the tip of a very large iceberg.” A single dismantled scheme tied to federal food aid programs amounted to $250 million, resulting in 78 indictments and 57 convictions. Broader estimates suggest fraud across multiple programs in Minnesota could total billions of dollars, including Medicaid, childcare assistance, and nutrition programs. Nick Shirley’s Role: Shirley posted a 42-minute investigative video showing visits to licensed childcare centers that appeared inactive despite receiving millions in public funding. One center reportedly received $1.9 million in 2025 but had no children present. His video documented $110 million in questionable payments in a single day, sparking national outrage and tens of millions of views. Political and Media Reaction: Figures like Elon Musk, JD Vance, and Rep. Tom Emmer amplified the story, calling for accountability. Criticism was directed at mainstream media for failing to investigate, and at Minnesota’s Democratic leadership, including Governor Tim Walz, for allegedly ignoring the issue. Legal Consequences: Convicted fraudsters may face denaturalization and deportation in addition to prison sentences. The FBI has surged resources to Minnesota and considers dismantling these schemes a top priority. Underlying Issues: Allegations that political interests and systemic failures allowed fraud to flourish. Claims that Minnesota has become a “magnet for fraud” and even developed a “fraud tourism industry.” Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Massive Fraud Allegations (WATCH NICK's VIDEO HERE!) Minnesota has spent $18 billion on Medicaid over several years, with up to $9 billion allegedly lost to fraud. Fraud reportedly involves fake daycare centers and autism centers receiving millions in state funds without providing services or having children present. Example: Facilities licensed for dozens of children but found empty, with windows blacked out and doors locked. Political Corruption Democratic politicians, including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, ignored or enabled the fraud. Stolen funds were used to influence elections and fund campaigns. We bring up Ilhan Omar and have questions about her financial gains. Investigative Work by Nick Shirley A 23-year-old YouTuber, Nick Shirley, conducted undercover investigations, visiting daycare and autism centers, documenting the absence of children, and exposing suspicious operations. His video reportedly went viral, reaching over 90 million views. Media Criticism Strong criticism of mainstream (called “Corporate”) media for allegedly ignoring the story. Praise for independent investigative journalism. Security and Confrontations Confrontations with individuals at the centers, some becoming hostile. Police involvement when Shirley attempted to gather information at healthcare offices. Financial Scale Examples of payments: individual centers receiving $1–$3 million annually. Autism-related Medicaid payments allegedly skyrocketed from $1.3 million in 2017 to $228 million in 2024. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supreme Court Decision on National Guard Deployment A recent Supreme Court ruling (6–3 decision) denying Trump’s request to federalize Illinois National Guard troops to assist ICE agents in Chicago. The legal reasoning: lack of statutory authority for the President to use military forces to enforce laws in Illinois. Dissenting opinions by Justices Alito, Thomas, and Gorsuch, emphasizing concerns about protecting federal officers. Criticism of Sanctuary Cities Strongly argue against sanctuary city policies, labeling them as harmful to American citizens. Trump’s intent to deploy the National Guard is a measure to protect lives, even in liberal areas. Government Waste and Rand Paul’s Festivus Report Highlights Senator Rand Paul’s annual report exposing wasteful federal spending, totaling over $1.6 trillion (including interest on debt). Examples include: $40 million for COVID-19 vaccine promotion after the pandemic ended. $1.5 million for promoting U.S. media overseas. $13.8 million for beagle experiments. $14 million for monkey video game experiments. $1 million for ferret binge-drinking studies. $7.5 billion for EV infrastructure with only 68 charging stations built. $22.6 billion on migrant benefits. Critiques gain-of-function research and animal testing funded by NIH and other agencies. Economic Performance and Trump’s Policies Celebrates strong GDP growth (4.3% in Q3 2025) and improved consumer spending. Tariffs, tax policies, and technology-driven productivity are getting stronger There is steep contrast in Trump’s approach with Biden-era inflation and spending. Inflation is trending downward (PCE index at ~2.8%), there is growth without runaway inflation. Compares current economic conditions to Reagan-era growth and late-1990s tech boom. 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. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Subsidies and Alleged Fraud Democrats intentionally designed ACA subsidies to expire, framing it as a political strategy to secure votes during elections. The ACA was never truly affordable and alleges systemic fraud, waste, and abuse within the program, including: Insurance companies benefiting from guaranteed government payments. Fraudulent enrollments and improper subsidies (citing a Washington Post report and GAO findings). The financial burden of extending enhanced subsidies, estimating costs up to $350 billion through 2035, and criticizes subsidies reaching households earning $160,000 annually. the expiration of subsidies could lead to premium hikes (up to 114%) and increased uninsured rates, framing this as a political weapon for Democrats. The ACA was a step toward socialized medicine and accuses Democrats of collusion with healthcare donors. 2. Renaming and Revitalization of the Kennedy Center The second part is an interview with Rick Grenell about the transformation of the Kennedy Center under Donald Trump’s involvement. Key points include: Severe deferred maintenance before Trump’s intervention (leaking roofs, broken elevators, collapsing infrastructure). Trump allegedly secured $250 million for renovations and initiated fundraising for programming. The center was renamed the Trump Kennedy Center, sparking controversy and accusations of partisanship. Discussion of programming strategy: moving away from “woke” or niche content toward mainstream, “common sense” performances to attract corporate sponsors and donors. Criticism of Democrats for boycotting the center despite advocating for arts funding. 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.