Sanctions Strike as Trump Targets Putin’s War Chest

🏀 NBA Corruption and Gambling Scandal Key Allegations: A massive insider sports betting and money laundering scheme involving current and former NBA players and coaches. Use of non-public NBA information (e.g., injuries, lineup changes) to place fraudulent bets. Staged early exits from games by players to manipulate betting outcomes. Tens of millions of dollars allegedly laundered through various means including crypto, peer-to-peer platforms, and cash exchanges. Notable Individuals Named: Chauncey Billups (current Portland Trail Blazers coach) Damon Jones (former NBA player and coach) Terry Rozier (current NBA player) Johntay Porter (former NBA player, already pleaded guilty) Others: Eric Ernest, Shane Hennon, To Niro Laster, Marvez Farley Specific Game Fixing Examples: March 23, 2023: Rozier allegedly faked an injury to influence betting outcomes. March 24, 2023: Insider tip about Trail Blazers resting players led to $100,000 in bets. April 6, 2023: Magic vs. Cavaliers game manipulated via insider info. Multiple other games involving the Lakers and Raptors were also allegedly fixed. ♠️ Mafia-Backed Rigged Poker Games Key Details: A second indictment involves 31 defendants in a nationwide illegal poker ring. Games were rigged using high-tech cheating devices: Altered card shuffling machines X-ray tables Marked cards with special glasses Chip tray analyzers Victims ("fish") were lured into games with the promise of playing against former pro athletes ("face cards"). Mob involvement from the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese crime families. Violence and threats were used to enforce debts, including gunpoint robberies. 🏛️ Political Commentary and White House Renovation The latter part of the podcast shifts to political commentary, defending President Trump and criticizing Democrats. Discusses White House renovations funded by private donations under Trump, contrasting it with taxpayer-funded renovations under Obama. Accusations of media bias and Democratic hypocrisy are prominent themes. Ends with commentary on the government shutdown, blaming Democrats for withholding pay from federal workers and military personnel. 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. Political Weaponization of Federal Agencies (Operation Arctic Frost): Operation Arctic Frost was a DOJ/FBI investigation launched in April 2022, described as a “Sensitive Investigative Matter.” It allegedly targeted Donald Trump, Republican senators, and GOP-aligned organizations under the pretext of investigating efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Senator Chuck Grassley claims to have obtained documents proving that Attorney General Merrick Garland, Deputy AG Lisa Monaco, and FBI Director Christopher Wray personally approved the operation. Grassley argues the operation was a partisan overreach, comparing it to a scandal “worse than Watergate.” The investigation reportedly included surveillance of at least nine Republican senators, including Ted Cruz, Lindsey Graham, Josh Hawley, and Marsha Blackburn, as well as 92 conservative organizations like Turning Point USA. The operation is portrayed as a broad effort to suppress political opposition to the Biden administration. 🎲 2. NBA Gambling and Mafia-Backed Corruption Scandal: The FBI announced two major indictments: Insider NBA sports betting involving players and coaches leaking confidential information to manipulate game outcomes for betting profits. Rigged underground poker games backed by La Cosa Nostra (including the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese crime families). Notable individuals named: Chauncey Billups (current NBA coach) Terry Rozier (current NBA player) Damon Jones (former NBA player and coach) High-tech cheating tools were used in poker games: Altered shuffling machines X-ray tables Hidden cameras Marked cards with special glasses The FBI emphasized this as a multi-year, multi-state operation involving tens of millions of dollars in fraud, money laundering, and extortion. FBI Director Cash Patel (possibly a fictional or misattributed name) declared this as the beginning of a broader crackdown on organized crime and corruption in sports. 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.

1. Government Shutdown and Federal Worker Pay The episode opens with a discussion of a government shutdown, referred to as the “Schumer shutdown.” Senator Cruz criticizes Democrats for voting against legislation that would have paid essential federal workers during the shutdown. He highlights specific Democratic senators who voted in favor (Warnock, Ossoff, Fetterman) and criticizes the rest for voting against it. Cruz emphasizes the impact on TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and military personnel, warning of potential travel disruptions and national security risks. He also notes that members of Congress continue to receive pay during the shutdown, though he claims to have requested his own pay be withheld. 2. Rise of Antisemitism on the Right Cruz expresses concern about increasing antisemitism within conservative circles, particularly among younger people. He recounts his speech at a Christians United for Israel event, where he warned about the dangers of ignoring antisemitism on the right. He criticizes both the left and right for harboring antisemitic sentiments, but emphasizes a recent rise on the right. Cruz calls on church leaders and conservatives to actively oppose antisemitism and support Israel, citing national security interests and moral obligations. 3. Opposition to Ambassador Nominee Amer Ghalib Cruz discusses his opposition to Amer Ghalib, a nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait. He criticizes Ghalib’s past statements, including praise for the Muslim Brotherhood and controversial social media activity. Cruz argues that Ghalib’s views are incompatible with U.S. foreign policy and President Trump’s positions, particularly regarding Israel and the Abraham Accords. He predicts that the nomination will likely be withdrawn due to bipartisan concerns. 4. Religious Persecution in China The podcast concludes with a segment on the persecution of Christians in China, particularly the arrest of Pastor Jin Mingri and members of the Zion Church. Cruz condemns the Chinese Communist Party’s actions and calls for the U.S. to use diplomatic and economic pressure to advocate for religious freedom. He emphasizes the importance of the U.S. standing up for persecuted religious minorities globally. Cruz expresses hope that President Trump will raise the issue during an upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Go to BackyardButchers.com and enter promo code “VERDICT”, that’s V-E-R-D-I-C-T,  for up to 30% off, 2 free 10-ounce ribeyes, and free shipping when you subscribe.   http://www.backyardbutchers.com/Verdict 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.

1. ICE Tracker Controversy The central claim is that Democratic members of Congress, particularly Rep. Robert Garcia, are planning to launch a “master ICE tracker” on the House Oversight Committee’s website. The tracker is described as a tool to monitor and publicly expose ICE agents, allegedly using community-submitted information. The author argues this amounts to doxxing—publishing personal information to harass or endanger individuals. 2. Historical Context of Attacks on ICE The podcast outlines a timeline of incidents from 2018 to 2025 involving: Doxxing of ICE agents via platforms like LinkedIn, GitHub, and Twitter. Protests and vandalism at ICE facilities. Violent attacks, including firebombing, shootings, and threats against ICE personnel and their families. Federal indictments against individuals accused of targeting ICE agents. 3. Criticism of Democratic Policies Ben accuses Democrats of: Encouraging harassment of ICE agents. Obstructing justice by undermining immigration enforcement. Promoting open borders and selectively enforcing laws. The narrative portrays Democrats as radical and dangerous, aligning them with extremist behavior. 4. Defense of Trump Administration The latter part of the document shifts focus to Donald Trump’s foreign policy, particularly: New sanctions on Russia’s oil companies (Rosneft and Lukoil) in response to the Ukraine war. Trump’s canceled meeting with Putin, signaling a tougher stance. Support from Congress for escalating economic pressure on Russia. The tone is supportive of Trump, emphasizing his “peace through strength” approach and unity among Republicans. 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. Purpose of the Sanctions The sanctions aim to cripple Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine by targeting its oil revenue, which is a major source of economic and military support. The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control stated the move is intended to degrade Russia’s war machine and economy. 2. Political Context The sanctions follow a canceled meeting between Trump and Putin, signaling rising tensions and frustration. Trump’s administration is positioning this as a shift toward “peace through strength”, emphasizing economic pressure over diplomacy. 3. Economic Implications Russia may be forced to lower oil prices or reduce production, both of which would hurt its economy. The sanctions could lead to global oil price spikes and affect energy markets. The effectiveness depends on international coordination, especially with major buyers like India and China. 4. Domestic Political Support There is bipartisan support in Congress for the sanctions. Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Mullin both expressed strong backing, framing the move as overdue and necessary. Trump described the sanctions as “very big and tremendous,” indicating a serious escalation. 5. Strategic Considerations The podcast suggests this is just the first step in a broader strategy, potentially including: Secondary sanctions on countries buying Russian oil. Tariffs on Russian oil imports. Military aid to Ukraine via European purchases. 6. Diplomatic Messaging The sanctions are also framed as a lever for diplomacy, with calls for a ceasefire. Trump’s rhetoric and canceled meeting with Putin reflect a hardening stance after failed diplomatic efforts. 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.

1. Allegations Against John Brennan Accusations that Brennan knowingly made false statements to Congress regarding the Steele Dossier and its role in the 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) on Russian election interference. Claims that Brennan denied CIA involvement with the dossier, which is contradicted by declassified documents. Assertions that Brennan overruled senior CIA officials who opposed including the dossier in the ICA. Reference to a criminal referral sent by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan to the Department of Justice, seeking prosecution under 18 U.S. Code § 1001 for false statements to Congress. 2. Broader Claims of Government Overreach Discussion of alleged political surveillance and targeting of conservative figures, including: Senator Ted Cruz, whose phone records were reportedly subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith but not handed over by AT&T. Other Republican senators and representatives whose metadata was allegedly obtained by the DOJ and FBI. Accusations of politicized investigations and abuse of power by federal agencies under the Biden administration. References to past controversies involving figures like James Comey, Christopher Wray, and James Clapper, suggesting a pattern of misconduct. 3. Commentary and Interviews Includes a detailed interview with Senator Ted Cruz, discussing his reaction to learning about the subpoena of his phone records and expressing concerns about political persecution. Promotional content for Patriot Mobile, a conservative-leaning mobile service provider. Calls for accountability and transparency, with suggestions that hearings and investigations may follow. 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.

Political Surveillance Allegations: The document centers on claims that Jack Smith, under the direction of the Biden Department of Justice (DOJ), conducted surveillance on Republican lawmakers. Specifically, Senator Ted Cruz and eight other Republican senators, along with one House member, allegedly had their phone metadata subpoenaed during investigations related to the January 6th Capitol events and broader election interference concerns. Ted Cruz’s Response: Cruz shares his personal experience, stating he was unaware of the subpoena until recently. He explains that his phone records were not initially obtained because his carrier, AT&T, refused to comply with the subpoena, citing constitutional protections under the Speech and Debate Clause. Cruz criticizes Verizon for allegedly complying with the DOJ’s requests without resistance. Claims of Political Persecution: The speaker argues that the surveillance was a “fishing expedition” aimed at targeting political opponents. The investigation is described as “Arctic Frost,” which the speaker likens to a modern-day Watergate, accusing Jack Smith of being a “partisan prosecutor drunk on power.” There are suggestions that the surveillance and investigations were politically motivated, especially following Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign announcement. Historical Comparisons and Broader Accusations: The narrative draws parallels to Richard Nixon’s abuses of power and claims that Barack Obama institutionalized similar tactics. The document accuses federal agencies like the FBI, DOJ, and IRS of being weaponized against conservatives. It references alleged efforts to turn Trump’s children against him, and broader surveillance of conservative organizations like Turning Point USA. Call for Accountability: The speaker calls for Congressional hearings and transparency. There is a push for reforms to prevent future surveillance of elected officials and political opponents. 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.

1. DOJ Subpoenas and Alleged Political Surveillance Senator Cruz reveals that Jack Smith, Special Counsel under the Biden DOJ, subpoenaed his phone records as part of an investigation into events surrounding January 6th. Cruz was not initially listed among the nine Republican senators whose records were obtained because his phone provider, AT&T, refused to comply with the subpoena, citing constitutional protections under the Speech and Debate Clause. The DOJ reportedly obtained records from Verizon for other senators, including Marsha Blackburn, Ron Johnson, Josh Hawley, and Lindsey Graham. Cruz and Ferguson characterize the subpoenas as a politically motivated fishing expedition, lacking criminal justification. 2. Concerns Over Abuse of Power Cruz argues this represents a dangerous precedent of the executive branch spying on legislative members. He calls for hearings and investigations to uncover who authorized the subpoenas and to prevent future abuses. The operation is referred to as “Arctic Frost”, which Cruz likens to a modern-day Watergate. 3. Meeting with Donald Trump at the White House Cruz recounts a lunch with Trump and other Republican senators, where Trump showcased renovations to the Rose Garden and plans for a new ballroom. The upgrades are privately funded, not taxpayer-funded, yet have drawn criticism from Democrats. Trump also distributed personalized gifts (e.g., challenge coins, golf towels, M&Ms) and joked about naming a room the “Monica Lewinsky Room.” 4. Government Shutdown Cruz discusses the ongoing government shutdown, blaming Democrats for refusing to vote to reopen. He notes that only three Democrats have supported reopening efforts, despite impacts on TSA agents and air traffic controllers. He predicts that retiring Democrats may eventually break ranks to end the shutdown. Go to BackyardButchers.com and enter promo code “VERDICT”, that’s V-E-R-D-I-C-T,  for up to 30% off, 2 free 10-ounce ribeyes, and free shipping when you subscribe.   http://www.backyardbutchers.com/Verdict 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. Government Shutdown Democrats continue the shutdown, the “Schumer shutdown.” Democrats delayed reopening the government due to optics around the “No King's rally.” We quote National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, who predicts the shutdown will end soon. 2. Healthcare Subsidies Debate Criticizes COVID-era expansions of Obamacare subsidies. Frames the issue as Democrats giving “handouts” and Republicans being more fiscally responsible. 3. Trump’s Political Standing Asserts that Trump’s approval rating has increased during the shutdown. Compares the current shutdown to the 2018–2019 one, claiming Trump is politically stronger now. Uses polling data to argue that fewer Americans blame Trump this time. 4. Executive Orders Highlights Trump’s use of executive orders as a way to bypass legislative gridlock. Claims Trump has signed more executive orders than any president since FDR. 5. National Guard Deployment Discusses the Ninth Circuit Court ruling allowing Trump to deploy the National Guard to Portland. Frames this as a legal and political victory for Trump. Includes quotes from judges and reactions from media outlets like MSNBC. 6. Illegal Immigration & Crime Details arrests of illegal immigrants, emphasizing those with serious criminal records. Quotes Kristi Noem and ICE statistics to support claims of law enforcement success. Frames Trump’s immigration policies as fulfilling campaign promises and improving public safety. 7. Law and Order Narrative Emphasizes Trump’s efforts to restore safety in cities like Portland, Washington D.C., Memphis, and Chicago. Criticizes liberal opposition and media portrayal. Ends with a strong endorsement of Trump’s leadership and policies. 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. Immigration Enforcement 480,000 illegal immigrants have been arrested in the first nine months of Trump’s administration. 70% of those arrested had criminal convictions or pending charges. Specific cases of individuals with serious criminal histories (e.g., murder, sexual assault, DUI) who were deported or incarcerated. 2. Sanctuary Cities & Political Opposition Sanctuary cities and the “radical left” are protecting illegal immigrants. Frames Democrats as obstructing law enforcement and enabling crime. 3. Law and Order Narrative Trump’s efforts to make cities safer, including Memphis, Portland, Washington D.C., and Chicago. The deployment of the National Guard and a favorable ruling from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, allow Trump to send troops to Portland. 4. Violence Against Law Enforcement “1000% increase” in violence against police due to anti-cop rhetoric. Incidents such as a shooting at an ICE facility and threats against law enforcement officers, including bounties placed on officials. 5. Public Opinion & Polling 54% of Americans support deporting illegal immigrants. 78% want criminal illegal aliens brought to justice. 6. Media Criticism MSNBC and other liberal outlet's reaction to Trump’s policies and court victories. The mainstream media is biased and resistant to Trump’s agenda. 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.