Nation States: What’s the Right Use of American Power?

From Iran and Ukraine to China, Taiwan, Venezuela, and the Strait of Hormuz, Steve Yates breaks down one of the biggest questions facing the Trump administration: what is the prudent use of American power? Yates explains why today’s military and economic conflicts look very different from Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan... and why America is increasingly relying on alliances, technology, deterrence, and targeted force instead of long-term occupations and nation-building. Follow Nation States with Yates for practical insight into China, geopolitics, and the national security issues affecting your household and America’s future. Steve Yates breaks down complex world events as your personal national security advisor, without the Washington jargon.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this special Memorial Day episode of The Truth with Lisa Boothe, Lisa sits down with decorated combat veteran Sean Parnell for a powerful and emotional conversation about service, sacrifice, and the lessons America must learn from war. Sean, a former U.S. Army Airborne Ranger, Purple Heart recipient, and author of Outlaw Platoon, reflects on leading soldiers through some of the fiercest fighting in Afghanistan and the realities of combat that most Americans never see. Together, Lisa and Sean discuss the human cost of America’s longest war, what policymakers should learn from Afghanistan, the burden placed on military families, and why honoring the fallen should also mean making wiser decisions about future conflicts. Sean also shares incredible firsthand stories from the battlefield, the brotherhood that sustained his platoon, and the challenges veterans face after returning home. This Memorial Day conversation is a tribute to those who gave everything for freedom—and a reminder of the responsibility we have to never forget their sacrifice.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran Updates Clay and Buck break down the escalating U.S.–Iran situation, including ongoing nuclear negotiations and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. Clay and Buck share insights from a recent high-level briefing, emphasizing that a potential deal with Iran is close but not guaranteed, and that military options remain on the table if diplomacy fails. They discuss the complexities of enforcing any agreement, skepticism about Iran’s willingness to comply, and broader concerns about preventing nuclear weapons development. The conversation also explores more aggressive policy options, including the possibility of directly seizing nuclear materials, while acknowledging the risks and historical lessons from past Middle East conflicts. The hosts devote significant attention to the global energy market, explaining how disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have led to a major shipping bottleneck, with roughly 1,500 vessels stalled in the region. They underscore that true reopening of the strait requires both inbound and outbound traffic to normalize, not just partial movement. This issue is tied directly to domestic economic concerns, as Clay and Buck argue that energy prices—especially gas prices—are a key driver of voter sentiment. They suggest that a drop in fuel costs could ease inflation, strengthen the economy, and play a critical role in Republican electoral prospects heading into the midterm elections. The hour also includes a detailed economic discussion noting that the United States has significantly benefited from higher global oil and gas prices due to increased exports. The hosts contend that strong domestic energy production, combined with broader economic factors like capital investment and technological growth, is contributing to a positive economic outlook despite global instability. This perspective reinforces their broader political analysis tying economic performance to election outcomes. Ken Paxton is feeling optimistic  An in-depth interview with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who lays out his case against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton criticizes Cornyn’s long tenure and alignment with Washington insiders, while positioning himself as a more effective, results-driven candidate aligned with President Trump’s agenda. He emphasizes issues such as election integrity, border security, and conservative policy priorities, while also addressing criticism about legal challenges he has faced, framing them as politically motivated “lawfare.” The interview underscores the broader ideological divide within the GOP and the importance of grassroots turnout in the runoff election. How can we lower gas prices in the US? Economic issues and energy policy become a focus for the guys, particularly the impact of rising oil and gas prices on American consumers. The hosts respond to multiple listener questions about why U.S. energy companies can generate significant profits while Americans still face high gas prices. Clay and Buck explain the concept of global commodity markets, emphasizing that oil and gas prices are set internationally rather than domestically. They use analogies ranging from gold pricing to luxury goods and event tickets to illustrate why prices cannot be artificially lowered in one country without creating market imbalances. This discussion also touches on capitalism, taxation, and debates over potential windfall profit taxes, with the hosts generally advocating for lower taxes and market-driven pricing. In addition to energy economics, the hosts connect rising fuel prices to broader political and geopolitical developments, including tensions with Iran. A notable caller perspective highlights the real-world financial strain of high diesel costs on truck drivers, while also expressing support for U.S. foreign policy actions despite the economic burden. This segment underscores the trade-offs between national security decisions and domestic economic impact, reinforcing a key theme of the hour: how global events directly affect American workers and voters. John Cornyn wants to keep his Senate Seat The guys speak to Senator John Cornyn, who makes his case for reelection by emphasizing his legislative record, long-standing support for President Trump’s agenda, and role in advancing key policies such as tax cuts and judicial confirmations. Cornyn addresses Trump’s endorsement of Paxton by attributing it to frustration with Senate gridlock rather than any lack of personal loyalty, noting his high voting alignment with the president. He argues that his experience and proven electoral success make him the strongest candidate to preserve the seat for Republicans and to support down-ballot races, while warning that Paxton’s legal controversies could create vulnerabilities in a general election. Cornyn also stresses the importance of party unity after the runoff and commits to supporting the Republican nominee regardless of the outcome. 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 and Buck Sexton Show begins by highlighting the high-profile Texas GOP Senate primary runoff between Ken Paxton and John Cornyn, framing it as a defining battle within the Republican Party between the Trump-aligned MAGA movement and the more traditional establishment wing. With roughly $100 million in spending, the race is positioned as one of the most consequential elections of the 2026 cycle, with significant implications for the party’s direction and national political landscape. A central theme throughout Hour 1 is the escalating U.S.–Iran situation, including ongoing nuclear negotiations and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. Clay and Buck share insights from a recent high-level briefing, emphasizing that a potential deal with Iran is close but not guaranteed, and that military options remain on the table if diplomacy fails. They discuss the complexities of enforcing any agreement, skepticism about Iran’s willingness to comply, and broader concerns about preventing nuclear weapons development. The conversation also explores more aggressive policy options, including the possibility of directly seizing nuclear materials, while acknowledging the risks and historical lessons from past Middle East conflicts. The hosts devote significant attention to the global energy market, explaining how disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have led to a major shipping bottleneck, with roughly 1,500 vessels stalled in the region. They underscore that true reopening of the strait requires both inbound and outbound traffic to normalize, not just partial movement. This issue is tied directly to domestic economic concerns, as Clay and Buck argue that energy prices—especially gas prices—are a key driver of voter sentiment. They suggest that a drop in fuel costs could ease inflation, strengthen the economy, and play a critical role in Republican electoral prospects heading into the midterm elections. The hour also includes a detailed economic discussion noting that the United States has significantly benefited from higher global oil and gas prices due to increased exports. The hosts contend that strong domestic energy production, combined with broader economic factors like capital investment and technological growth, is contributing to a positive economic outlook despite global instability. This perspective reinforces their broader political analysis tying economic performance to election outcomes. A featured segment in Hour 1 is an in-depth interview with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who lays out his case against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton criticizes Cornyn’s long tenure and alignment with Washington insiders, while positioning himself as a more effective, results-driven candidate aligned with President Trump’s agenda. He emphasizes issues such as election integrity, border security, and conservative policy priorities, while also addressing criticism about legal challenges he has faced, framing them as politically motivated “lawfare.” The interview underscores the broader ideological divide within the GOP and the importance of grassroots turnout in the runoff election. Beyond politics and policy, the hosts reflect on Memorial Day, sharing both uplifting and controversial cultural moments. They highlight a viral story of Americans honoring a fallen soldier at Arlington National Cemetery as an example of national unity and gratitude, while also criticizing political messaging they believe detracted from the holiday’s purpose. The hour concludes with commentary on ongoing cultural and political controversies, including reactions to public statements by elected officials, debates over social media narratives, and renewed discussion of the George Floyd case and its legal and societal implications. These topics are framed within a broader critique of media coverage, political polarization, and what the hosts see as ideological excesses in public discourse. 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 and Buck Sexton Show continues the program’s in-depth analysis of politics, culture, and economics, clearly marking this as the second hour of the broadcast with a strong focus on media reaction, free speech debates, and the real-world impact of global events on everyday Americans. The hosts begin Hour 2 by noting positive updates about President Donald Trump’s health and briefly touching on lighter topics, including the New York Knicks’ return to the NBA Finals, before quickly pivoting into a major media controversy tied to sports and politics. A central topic in Hour 2 is the backlash surrounding New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart introducing President Trump at a recent rally in a competitive New York congressional district. Clay and Buck highlight how what they describe as a routine and respectful introduction sparked intense criticism from sports media figures, including ESPN commentators, and even reactions from Dart’s teammates. The hosts frame this as an example of political intolerance within sports media, arguing that athletes should be free to express their political views without facing backlash. This leads into a broader discussion of free speech, cancel culture, and the intersection of sports, politics, and media narratives, with Clay and Buck suggesting that criticism of Dart reflects larger ideological divisions in American culture. The conversation expands into political analysis surrounding race, voting rights, and redistricting, as the hosts respond to commentary linking Trump-era policies to racial issues. They examine Supreme Court decisions related to redistricting and debate the concept of racially drawn political districts, arguing that such districts may limit broader political representation. The hosts cite examples of national political figures who succeeded by appealing to broader constituencies, positioning this as part of a larger argument about electoral strategy, identity politics, and the structure of American democracy. Hour 2 also features an extended discussion on political “dirty tricks” and media influence in elections. Clay and Buck analyze historical campaign strategies, including the use of opposition research, leaked or unsealed documents, and media partnerships to shape public perception.They describe how campaigns may funnel damaging information through media outlets to create distance from the narrative while still benefiting politically, characterizing this process as a form of “laundering” political stories. Listener calls reinforce this theme, tying these tactics to broader controversies such as the Russia investigation and past campaign strategies. Economic issues and energy policy become another major focus of Hour 2, particularly the impact of rising oil and gas prices on American consumers. The hosts respond to multiple listener questions about why U.S. energy companies can generate significant profits while Americans still face high gas prices. Clay and Buck explain the concept of global commodity markets, emphasizing that oil and gas prices are set internationally rather than domestically. They use analogies ranging from gold pricing to luxury goods and event tickets to illustrate why prices cannot be artificially lowered in one country without creating market imbalances. This discussion also touches on capitalism, taxation, and debates over potential windfall profit taxes, with the hosts generally advocating for lower taxes and market-driven pricing. In addition to energy economics, the hosts connect rising fuel prices to broader political and geopolitical developments, including tensions with Iran. A notable caller perspective highlights the real-world financial strain of high diesel costs on truck drivers, while also expressing support for U.S. foreign policy actions despite the economic burden. This segment underscores the trade-offs between national security decisions and domestic economic impact, reinforcing a key theme of the hour: how global events directly affect American workers and voters. The hour also revisits cultural and political controversies from Memorial Day, including criticism of public officials who chose to attend events related to George Floyd rather than traditional military memorial ceremonies. Clay and Buck use this as an example of what they view as shifting political priorities and cultural narratives within certain parts of the country, tying it into broader critiques of Democratic leadership and messaging. 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 and Buck Sexton Show centers on the climactic coverage of the Texas GOP Senate primary runoff, emphasizing this as the third hour of the program and the culmination of the day’s political analysis. The hosts frame the race between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton as a high-stakes, nationally significant contest with more than $150 million in spending and clear ideological implications for the Republican Party, particularly in the ongoing tension between the MAGA movement and establishment Republicans. Clay and Buck reiterate their approach of not endorsing candidates in primaries while providing both contenders equal opportunity to present their case to voters, reinforcing the show’s positioning as a platform for political debate rather than advocacy. Throughout Hour 3, the hosts analyze the political dynamics of the Texas runoff, including the influence of President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Paxton and the narrative surrounding Paxton’s alleged “baggage.” They push back on criticisms of Paxton by pointing to his electoral success and tenure as attorney general, while also acknowledging arguments that Cornyn may be a safer general election candidate. The discussion highlights broader Republican strategic considerations, including electability, party unity, and the importance of maintaining control of a reliably red Senate seat. Clay and Buck express confidence that either Republican nominee would ultimately defeat Democratic candidate James Talarico, whom they describe as out of step with Texas voters, while also examining how Democrats continue to invest heavily in long-shot races. The hour’s centerpiece is a live interview with Senator John Cornyn, who makes his case for reelection by emphasizing his legislative record, long-standing support for President Trump’s agenda, and role in advancing key policies such as tax cuts and judicial confirmations. Cornyn addresses Trump’s endorsement of Paxton by attributing it to frustration with Senate gridlock rather than any lack of personal loyalty, noting his high voting alignment with the president. He argues that his experience and proven electoral success make him the strongest candidate to preserve the seat for Republicans and to support down-ballot races, while warning that Paxton’s legal controversies could create vulnerabilities in a general election. Cornyn also stresses the importance of party unity after the runoff and commits to supporting the Republican nominee regardless of the outcome. Beyond Texas, Hour 3 expands into broader 2026 election cycle analysis, with Clay and Buck discussing key Senate battleground states such as Maine, Georgia, and Michigan. They highlight Senator Susan Collins as a model of a Republican capable of winning in a blue-leaning state, while criticizing Democratic candidates and messaging in other races. The hosts also explore media double standards, particularly in coverage of controversial political figures, arguing that similar issues would receive far more attention if they involved Republican candidates. This segment reinforces ongoing themes of media bias, campaign narratives, and political polarization. Cultural and political commentary continues with discussion of issues such as gender identity in sports, specifically a California high school athlete competing in girls’ events and the broader debate over transgender participation in athletics. The hosts connect this to the California governor’s race and national Democratic politics, portraying it as a defining cultural issue likely to influence voter attitudes. Economic analysis returns as a recurring theme in Hour 3, particularly around oil and gas prices and their impact on voters. Clay and Buck revisit listener questions about why domestic energy production does not translate into lower gas prices, again emphasizing the concept of a global commodity market. They explain that prices are set internationally, meaning that U.S. consumers cannot be insulated from global fluctuations even when the country is a net energy exporter. The hosts argue that higher profits for American energy companies lead to broader economic benefits, including job creation, capital investment, and increased tax revenue, while opposing proposals such as windfall profits taxes that could discourage production and investment. Listener engagement plays a significant role in this hour, with calls and emails highlighting real-world perspectives on energy costs and economic trade-offs. The hosts acknowledge the frustration many Americans feel over rising gas prices while also discussing the political implications, noting that fuel costs are a key driver of voter sentiment and could influence upcoming midterm elections. They suggest that sustained high gas prices could pose challenges for Republicans, even if driven by geopolitical factors such as tensions with Iran, underscoring the link between foreign policy, energy markets, and domestic politics. 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.

Can parents really have both a successful career and a thriving family life? In this 'Ask Us Anything' episode, Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz take on one of the biggest debates facing modern families today: balancing ambition, work, and raising children. They challenge the idea that parents must sacrifice one for the other and discuss how strong partnerships, supportive communities, and realistic expectations can make both possible. The conversation also explores practical parenting strategies, from sleep training and building healthy routines to navigating the unique challenges of raising children in cities and fast-paced environments. Whether you're a parent, expecting your first child, or thinking about work-life balance in a changing world, this episode offers honest insights and practical advice on building a family life that works.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show Hour 1. 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.

The best of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show Hour 2. 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.

The best of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show Hour 3. 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.