Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Dec 17 2025

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 HEREFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.  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 with Buck Sexton’s final live broadcast of the year and a deep dive into major headlines shaping the political and cultural conversation. The hour opens with 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 Vice President 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. Next, the show tackles the Brown University shooting investigation, which remains shrouded in mystery. Clay and Buck express frustration over the lack of progress, limited surveillance footage, and reports that the university may be prioritizing PR concerns over transparency. They explore whether political motives could be involved, given that one victim was a prominent college Republican, and question why a multimillion-dollar institution lacks adequate security measures. The hosts underscore parental concerns about campus safety and the broader implications for law enforcement and higher education. In a cultural segment, Clay and Buck react to a viral clip from the TV series Landman mocking The View, sparking a humorous exchange about media bias and entertainment trends. From there, the discussion turns serious with an in-depth analysis of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies and their impact on hiring practices. Buck cites a powerful essay from Compact Magazine detailing how DEI initiatives discriminated against white men in industries like academia, media, and Hollywood, calling the practice unconstitutional and immoral. Clay adds personal anecdotes from law school, challenging the narrative of “white male privilege” and highlighting generational frustrations. 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 packed lineup of political analysis, cultural commentary, and a major Capitol Hill interview. The hour begins with Clay and Buck reflecting 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. The centerpiece of Hour 2 is 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. In a lighter moment, the hosts share a viral clip of a 101-year-old World War II veteran praising President Trump, pledging he’d “put on the uniform and fight today.” The segment closes with a preview of upcoming discussions on California’s policy challenges and the latest developments in the Brown University shooting investigation. 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 dives deep into political intrigue, California chaos, and explosive legal controversies. The hour kicks off with Katie Zacharia, a California-based legal and political strategist, joining Clay and Buck to break down the looming Democratic primary showdown between Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom. Despite Harris’ poor performance as Vice President, national polling shows her edging out Newsom, sparking speculation about the DNC’s strategy and whether South Carolina will once again be the first primary state—a move that could guarantee Harris an early win thanks to James Clyburn’s influence. Katie also exposes California’s education crisis, citing shocking statistics: Los Angeles public schools have lost 26% of their students over the past decade while increasing staff by nearly 20%. California ranks dead last in literacy nationwide, with only 37% of students meeting math standards. Zachariah blames entrenched teachers’ unions and a Democrat supermajority for blocking school choice and vouchers, leaving parents desperate for alternatives. The conversation shifts to the Malibu wildfire aftermath, where nearly a year later, burned lots remain vacant and rebuilding has stalled. Katie alleges that bureaucratic red tape and Gavin Newsom’s rezoning agenda are forcing homeowners out, paving the way for developers and low-income housing projects. She warns that without voter ID and election integrity reforms, Republicans like Steve Hilton face an uphill battle in California despite growing frustration with Democrat mismanagement. In a bombshell segment, Clay and Buck dissect the Fani Willis scandal after her Trump RICO case collapses. Willis faces grilling over hiring her lover, Nathan Wade, and approving hundreds of thousands in taxpayer-funded payments. The hosts highlight her evasive testimony and jaw-dropping claim that Wade billed 160 hours in a single week, calling it blatant fraud and emblematic of systemic corruption. They also connect this to broader Biden DOJ weaponization, revealing reports that FBI agents opposed the Mar-a-Lago raid for lack of probable cause—only to be overruled by political operatives. The hour closes with Treasury Secretary Scott Besson’s remarks on immigration and housing costs, confirming that mass illegal immigration drove rents up nationwide. With Trump’s border enforcement removing over 2 million illegals, rents are finally dropping—a clear example of supply and demand at work. Clay and Buck underscore how immigration policy directly impacts affordability, especially in cities like New York. Listeners also enjoy lighter moments, including Buck’s reflections on his first Christmas as a dad, Clay’s nostalgia for school holiday breaks, and humorous talkbacks debating pronunciation quirks and firearm preferences. The show wraps with heartfelt holiday wishes and gratitude for an incredible year. 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, Jonathan T. Gilliam examines two shocking violent incidents—the Brown University shooting and the Bondi Beach terror attack—and what they reveal about the current state of national security and public safety. Lisa and Jonathan discuss the role of law enforcement, the challenges of preventing ideologically driven violence, and how criminal acts intersect with political and social movements. The episode also explores the importance of public cooperation in investigations, gaps in security measures, and broader concerns surrounding migration, crime, and societal safety.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 examines the shocking Bondi Beach attack and what it reveals about radicalization, ISIS influence, and the alarming rise of global anti-Semitism. She explores how extremist ideologies take root, the psychological mechanics of indoctrination, and where security agencies are failing to stop violent attacks before they occur. Tudor also addresses the growing threat facing Jewish communities worldwide, the normalization of hate, and why society must confront anti-Semitic violence head-on. This episode is a critical conversation about terrorism, public safety, and the urgent need for accountability and action in the face of rising extremism.  Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

📍Robin “Griff” Griffiths, a former U.S. Marine grunt, shares his firsthand account of joining the Marine Corps after 9/11 and fighting in the opening days of the Iraq War. Griff walks through boot camp, the invasion of Iraq, and the brutal reality of combat during the Battle of Nasiriyah, including the loss of 18 Marines in a single day. This episode goes beyond headlines to reveal what war actually feels like from the ground level—fear, brotherhood, chaos, and responsibility. If you want an unfiltered Marine perspective on the Iraq invasion, this is a story you won’t hear anywhere else. 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/ Timestamps: 00:00 - From 9/11 to the Marine Corps 10:01 - Marine Boot Camp: Breaking Down the Man 23:38 - “We Knew We Were Going To War”: Preparing For Deployment 40:41 - Ambush Alley: The First Day of Combat, Fear Of Death 52:47 - Losing 18 Friends In One Day 58:16 - Coming Home, Questioning The War, Preparing For A 2nd Deployment 01:15:10 - Getting Married Between Deployments, Family, Cost of War 01:24:02 - Brutal 2nd Deployment, Combat, Nearly Dying 01:36:13 - Coming Home, Recovery & Transitioning Out 01:47:01 - Getting Saved 01:48:46 - Lessons Learned From War 01:50:30 - What If His Son Said He Wanted To Join The Corps? Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I'm Getting a Bad Vibe Updates on the Brown University shooting, where speculation grows about whether the attack was a politically motivated assassination targeting Ella Cook, a prominent conservative and College Republicans leader on one of the nation’s most left-wing campuses. Buck examines eyewitness reports suggesting the shooter yelled “Allahu Akbar,” raising questions about radical Islamic extremism and why authorities in Providence are withholding key details. He warns of political spin and compares this case to past incidents where officials obscured jihadist motives, such as the Pulse nightclub attack.  Buck promotes his upcoming book Manufacturing Delusion, warning about the resurgence of radical Islam and the dangers of silencing truth under the guise of political correctness.  Bondi Beach Police Response Buck explores the police response failures during the Bondi attack, highlighting video evidence of officers—particularly female officers—struggling to subdue armed attackers under restrictive use-of-force policies. Buck calls for an honest conversation about physical realities in law enforcement and the dangers of politically driven policing standards.  Buck also investigates the attackers’ training links to jihadist networks in the southern Philippines, including ISIS affiliates like Abu Sayyaf and BIFF. He explains how these terror groups provide ideological indoctrination and tactical skills, drawing parallels to patterns seen in past plots against U.S. targets. This segment underscores the resurgence of radical Islam and the global spread of jihadist ideology. The Lost Generation In a major cultural segment, Buck highlights a Compact Magazine exposé on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), arguing that DEI policies have derailed a generation of professionals, lowered standards in elite institutions, and degraded quality in media, publishing, and Hollywood. He explains how diversity hiring became an explicit, racially biased practice that sidelined meritocracy, resulting in declining creativity and institutional prestige. Name that Terrorist Group Buck explores the broader terrorism threat landscape, drawing on his experience as a former CIA Counterterrorism Center analyst. He argues that radical Islam remains a unique global security challenge, contrasting it with other religions and dismantling the narrative around “Islamophobia.” This segment includes a candid discussion on why media and political elites downplay Islamist violence while exaggerating right-wing extremism. 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 today’s Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show dives into breaking news, national security concerns, and cultural debates shaping America. Buck Sexton hosts solo as Clay attends a family funeral, and despite battling a cold, Buck delivers sharp analysis on major stories dominating headlines. The hour opens with updates on the Brown University shooting, where speculation grows about whether the attack was a politically motivated assassination targeting Ella Cook, a prominent conservative and College Republicans leader on one of the nation’s most left-wing campuses. Buck examines eyewitness reports suggesting the shooter yelled “Allahu Akbar,” raising questions about radical Islamic extremism and why authorities in Providence are withholding key details. He warns of political spin and compares this case to past incidents where officials obscured jihadist motives, such as the Pulse nightclub attack. Buck also explores the broader terrorism threat landscape, drawing on his experience as a former CIA Counterterrorism Center analyst. He argues that radical Islam remains a unique global security challenge, contrasting it with other religions and dismantling the narrative around “Islamophobia.” This segment includes a candid discussion on why media and political elites downplay Islamist violence while exaggerating right-wing extremism. Listeners also hear Buck’s take on Trump’s latest comments about Rob Reiner, the media frenzy surrounding them, and what it reveals about anti-Trump narratives. He touches on Trump’s Oval Office remarks on healthcare and previews ongoing debates about border security and drug cartel activity in the Eastern Pacific, where U.S. forces recently destroyed narco-boats.Cultural commentary rounds out the hour with Buck highlighting a Tablet magazine exposé on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and its corrosive impact on elite institutions like Brown. He urges honest conversations about diversity, censorship, and political violence on college campuses. Finally, Buck promotes his upcoming book Manufacturing Delusion, warning about the resurgence of radical Islam and the dangers of silencing truth under the guise of political correctness. He also shares listener talkbacks, including concerns about campus security nationwide following the Brown shooting. 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.