It's a Numbers Game: The Numbers Behind Texas’ Wild Primary: Cornyn vs. Paxton, Crenshaw’s Loss & Democrats’ New Star

On this episode of The Karol Markowicz Show, Karol sits down with journalist and commentator Joel Pollak, the opinion editor of the newly launched California Post. Pollak explains the mission behind the new publication and why its founders believe there is a large, underserved audience in California looking for a different perspective on politics, culture, and daily life in the Golden State. The conversation dives into the current state of California politics, including Governor Gavin Newsom’s policies, the state’s growing fiscal challenges, and controversial legislation affecting local governments and school districts. Pollak shares why he believes California is at a crossroads—and why he’s still investing his time and energy into helping shape its future. Pollak also reflects on a transformative personal experience during the Palisades fire that reshaped his outlook on community, politics, and rebuilding California. The discussion broadens into culture, family life, and what it takes to stay optimistic in uncertain times. To close the show, Pollak shares practical advice for improving your life—from the importance of daily exercise and boxing workouts to keeping a daily journal to clear your mind and unlock creativity. Topics covered in this episode include: The launch and mission of the California Post The political and cultural battles shaping California today Gavin Newsom’s policies and their long-term impact on the state The Palisades fire and how it changed Pollak’s perspective Why community rebuilding matters more than national politics Life advice: exercise, journaling, and building a meaningful life If you’re interested in the future of California, media, politics, and personal growth, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next Leader of Iran? Clay and Buck explore the strategic vacuum emerging as Iranian leadership is targeted. They debate who could run Iran in a post regime environment, discussing exiled Persian figures, potential caretaker governments, and the historic role of ethnic minorities. A long section of the hour examines the role of the Kurds, their reliability as fighting partners, and their limits—especially outside Kurdish regions. Buck, drawing on CIA experience, compares the current situation to operations in Iraq, explaining how Kurdish forces were critical in some areas but could not govern Sunni or mixed ethnic cities. Clay adds an unexpected angle by noting that Nashville has the largest Kurdish population in the United States, shaping the domestic connection to Middle Eastern geopolitics. The hosts also address whether the Iranian people themselves have the will to rise up, citing messages from inside Tehran indicating support for U.S. and Israeli strikes. The big question, Buck says, is whether ordinary Iranians will seize the opportunity for a “Persian Spring” once the regime’s command-and-control structure collapses. Additional topics in Hour 1 include: The U.S. jobs report, which shows a loss of 92,000 jobs—a development Buck argues the media frames selectively depending on whether the news is favorable or unfavorable to President Trump. Gov't Spending Porn Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana joins the show to talk about the controversial DHS advertising scandal, the future of the Department of Homeland Security, the SAVE Act debate, crime and prosecutorial studies, geopolitical listener insights, and signature Clay & Buck pop culture banter. Clay and Buck ask him about the $250 million DHS advertising campaign featuring Noem, which Kennedy calls “spending porn.” Senator Kennedy talks about confronting Noem on questionable management decisions. Noem falsely claimed under oath that President Trump approved the ad campaign. President Trump called Kennedy personally, furious and insisting he never approved the spending or related no bid contracts. Kennedy signals major red flags involving: Newly formed companies receiving taxpayer-funded ad contracts. Potential ties between contractors and Noem’s associates. Possible obstruction of the department’s Inspector General investigations. Senator Kennedy on Noem’s Ouster, Perjury Concerns & DHS Corruption Questions. Kennedy suggests the firing was inevitable given mounting signs of: Misleading testimony under oath, improperly bid contracts, excessive self-promotional spending, internal dysfunction and IG obstruction. Although he avoids claiming outright perjury, Kennedy strongly implies a credibility crisis for Noem and confirms ongoing congressional scrutiny. The Future of DHS: Senator Markwayne Mullin considered for leadership. Clay and Buck explore potential successors with Kennedy, who praises Senator Markwayne Mullin as: Tough, experienced, and smart, a strong manager with real-world business experience - someone likely to be confirmed easily. This segment highlights Trump administration personnel decisions and the future trajectory of DHS under new leadership. Kennedy also discusses his bestselling book “How to Test Negative for Stupid and Why Washington Never Will”, which has spent more than 20 weeks on the New York Times list. Securing Our Elections Brianna Lyman of The Federalist also joins as a guest to discuss the SAVE Act, legislation aimed at requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to vote in federal elections. Key points include: The current federal voter registration system runs largely on the “honor system.” Examples of non citizens voting due to lax safeguards, including cases in Georgia. North Carolina and 2020 House races decided by just a handful of votes, showing how even small numbers of illegal ballots matter. Approximately 80% of voters support the SAVE Act. DOJ lawsuits against states attempting to tighten citizenship verification. Procedural battles in the Senate over filibuster rules. Trump’s comments on potential negotiations surrounding the bill. Future of College Sports Clay is in Washington, DC today to participate in a White House college sports panel alongside Nick Saban, Urban Meyer, Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Ron DeSantis, Marco Rubio, and others to address chaos in college athletics, player compensation, and the urgent need for congressional action. They discuss the booming world of youth sports academies, NIL money, and the future of competitive balance. The hour closes with listener messages about the Alamo anniversary, yard work etiquette in Texas, movie recommendations, and the promise of more updates on the developing conflict with Iran on Monday.   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 and 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 opens with Buck anchoring solo from the studio as Clay makes his way in from Washington, D.C. The hour is dominated by urgent geopolitical developments, major U.S. policy shifts, and fast moving military action as President Donald Trump oversees one of the most aggressive foreign policy operations of his presidency. The top story is the massive U.S.–Israeli aerial campaign against Iran, which Buck repeatedly characterizes as true wartime activity, even if some avoid using the word “war.” The hosts detail how U.S. and Israeli forces have achieved air dominance over Iran, systematically destroying Iranian military infrastructure, including missile launchers, drone facilities, and even a bunker used by Iran’s supreme leader. Buck emphasizes that the U.S. now exercises “total control” over Iranian airspace, and that Trump has ordered intensified strikes against the IRGC and Iran’s proxy network, including Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. President Trump’s recorded statements, played during the hour, highlight his insistence that no new Iran deal will occur without unconditional surrender, and his demand that Iranian security forces lay down their arms in exchange for complete amnesty. Trump also stresses that Iranian leadership figures are being eliminated with unprecedented precision, creating leadership paralysis inside Tehran. Clay and Buck explore the strategic vacuum emerging as Iranian leadership is targeted. They debate who could run Iran in a post regime environment, discussing exiled Persian figures, potential caretaker governments, and the historic role of ethnic minorities. A long section of the hour examines the role of the Kurds, their reliability as fighting partners, and their limits—especially outside Kurdish regions. Buck, drawing on CIA experience, compares the current situation to operations in Iraq, explaining how Kurdish forces were critical in some areas but could not govern Sunni or mixed ethnic cities. Clay adds an unexpected angle by noting that Nashville has the largest Kurdish population in the United States, shaping the domestic connection to Middle Eastern geopolitics. The hosts also address whether the Iranian people themselves have the will to rise up, citing messages from inside Tehran indicating support for U.S. and Israeli strikes. The big question, Buck says, is whether ordinary Iranians will seize the opportunity for a “Persian Spring” once the regime’s command-and-control structure collapses. Additional topics in Hour 1 include: The U.S. jobs report, which shows a loss of 92,000 jobs—a development Buck argues the media frames selectively depending on whether the news is favorable or unfavorable to President Trump. Kristi Noem's firing as DHS Secretary, with upcoming guest Sen. John Kennedy expected to discuss the scandal over a $220 million advertising budget and concerns about Nome’s testimony regarding Corey Lewandowski. Venezuela and Cuba, and how the Trump administration’s policies are reshaping geopolitics beyond the Middle East. Historical context on Kurdish oppression, including Saddam Hussein’s chemical attack on Halabja, and how those atrocities influenced Kurdish loyalty to U.S. forces during the Iraq War. Overall, Hour 1 delivers a sweeping overview of U.S. foreign policy, Middle East conflict, Iranian regime instability, national security strategy, and Trump administration decision making, all while teasing major interviews and deeper analysis coming in Hour 2. This hour positions listeners to understand the rapidly evolving situation in Iran and the global consequences of America’s military and diplomatic offensive.   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 and 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.

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana joins the show to talk about the controversial DHS advertising scandal, the future of the Department of Homeland Security, the SAVE Act debate, crime and prosecutorial studies, geopolitical listener insights, and signature Clay & Buck pop culture banter. Clay and Buck ask him about the $250 million DHS advertising campaign featuring Noem, which Kennedy calls “spending porn.” Senator Kennedy talks about confronting Noem on questionable management decisions. Noem falsely claimed under oath that President Trump approved the ad campaign. President Trump called Kennedy personally, furious and insisting he never approved the spending or related no bid contracts. Kennedy signals major red flags involving: Newly formed companies receiving taxpayer-funded ad contracts. Potential ties between contractors and Noem’s associates. Possible obstruction of the department’s Inspector General investigations. Senator Kennedy on Noem’s Ouster, Perjury Concerns & DHS Corruption Questions. Kennedy suggests the firing was inevitable given mounting signs of: Misleading testimony under oath, improperly bid contracts, excessive self-promotional spending, internal dysfunction and IG obstruction. Although he avoids claiming outright perjury, Kennedy strongly implies a credibility crisis for Noem and confirms ongoing congressional scrutiny. The Future of DHS: Senator Markwayne Mullin Considered for Leadership. Clay and Buck explore potential successors with Kennedy, who praises Senator Markwayne Mullin as: Tough, experienced, and smart, a strong manager with real-world business experience - someone likely to be confirmed easily. This segment highlights Trump administration personnel decisions and the future trajectory of DHS under new leadership. Kennedy also discusses his bestselling book “How to Test Negative for Stupid and Why Washington Never Will”, which has spent more than 20 weeks on the New York Times list. He shares: How the audiobook took 20 hours to record at his kitchen table. Why the book focuses on real Washington stories over policy lectures. How humor and storytelling connect better with readers than heavy political theory Brianna Lyman of The Federalist also joins as a guest to discuss the SAVE Act, legislation aimed at requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to vote in federal elections. Key points include: The current federal voter registration system runs largely on the “honor system.” Examples of non citizens voting due to lax safeguards, including cases in Georgia. North Carolina and 2020 House races decided by just a handful of votes, showing how even small numbers of illegal ballots matter. Approximately 80% of voters support the SAVE Act. DOJ lawsuits against states attempting to tighten citizenship verification. Procedural battles in the Senate over filibuster rules. Trump’s comments on potential negotiations surrounding the bill.   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 and 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 delivers a fast moving, personality driven mix of politics, economy, culture, and humor. The hour opens with Buck recapping major economic news, including the U.S. losing 92,000 jobs, a downturn the Wall Street Journal framed as both “unexpected” and “widespread.” The hosts analyze the Labor Department’s January report of 126,000 jobs gained—far exceeding economists’ expectations of 50,000—and dissect an unemployment rate holding at 4.4%, particularly the role healthcare hiring and the Kaiser Permanente strike played in skewing projections. From there, the tone shifts to lifestyle and culture, jumping into a long, comedic discussion comparing Miami weather to the colder Northeast, and how living in warm climates changes one’s perception of bad weather elsewhere. They debate whether New England fall foliage or Southern late autumn landscapes are superior, sparking a lighthearted back and forth rooted in regional pride. This leads to one of the hour’s most animated segments: the “leaf blower wars.” The hosts joke about early morning yard crews in Florida, resident “leaf blower addicts,” and even wild roosters roaming Miami neighborhoods. The conversation humorously explores community noise battles, neighborhood quirks, and the cultural anthropology of suburban landscaping. The leaf blower conversation becomes a pivot into rising gasoline prices, with Clay predicting a temporary spike followed by a sharp decline. They connect gas price fluctuations to political strategy, forecasting that Democrats will attempt to frame rising prices as a consequence of President Trump’s actions in Iran, while the hosts argue the opposite—pointing to expected stabilization in the Middle East and expanding Venezuelan oil output. A substantial portion of Hour 3 dives into Venezuela’s political and economic transformation following the removal of Nicolás Maduro. The hosts describe rapidly improving safety, surging nightlife, and a revitalized food and cocktail scene—so much so that they jokingly predict Caracas could become the next major destination for American bachelor and bachelorette parties, similar to Cartagena’s rise in popularity. They credit “capitalist infusion,” increased government support for business, and normalized relations with the U.S. as catalysts for a surprisingly fast rebound. The conversation then broadens to the political implications of energy prices, especially in an election year, noting that high gas prices historically hurt the party in power. They cite historical patterns of summer price spikes and autumn relief, predicting that by August or September, gas prices will fall and lose potency as a political weapon. The hour touches on wider geopolitical tensions, Iran’s longstanding impact on global energy markets, and the administration’s mitigation strategies—while repeatedly emphasizing that President Trump remains in a very strong political position with a solidified base. Additional cultural and political threads weave through the hour, including: The controversy involving Mayor Mamdani’s wife allegedly liking posts celebrating the October 7th Hamas terror attacks, prompting discussion on media coverage, anti Semitic sentiment in NYC politics, and double standards in political accountability. Contrasts between public perception of violence in “blue cities” versus actual criminal trends. Lighthearted debates such as the best Joker performance (Heath Ledger vs. Jack Nicholson), nostalgic movie commentary, and personal anecdotes about fitness injuries, padel tennis, favorite foods, and everyday life. Later, Clay previews his appearance on a White House college sports panel alongside Nick Saban, Urban Meyer, Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Ron DeSantis, Marco Rubio, and others to address chaos in college athletics, player compensation, and the urgent need for congressional action. They discuss the booming world of youth sports academies, NIL money, and the future of competitive balance. The hour closes with listener messages about the Alamo anniversary, yard work etiquette in Texas, movie recommendations, and the promise of more updates on the developing conflict with Iran on Monday.   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 and 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.

Alex Newman joins us to discuss the ongoing questions surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case and newly examined documents. Newman shares his perspective on the complex network of financial, political, and intelligence connections that investigators and journalists continue to analyze. The conversation explores how Epstein built his wealth, the alleged ties between finance and intelligence networks, and why many observers believe the full story has yet to be uncovered. David and Alex also discuss the challenges journalists face when investigating massive document releases and the role of media, government agencies, and international investigations. This episode digs into the broader questions about transparency, accountability, and how complex power networks operate in the modern world.   Timestamps: 00:00 - The Rothschilds Connection With Epstein 06:18 - The Financial Story Is Bigger Than The Intelligence Story 09:32 - Searching The Files & What Alex Is Finding 13:59 - Who Can Get All The Files Released? 17:25 - Sponsor: Black Rifle Coffee 20:11 - Will We Ever Find The Full Truth On Epstein? 25:03 - Where To Learn More About Alex’s Work   Sponsors: Black Rifle Coffee: https://www.blackriflecoffee.com/ 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 A Numbers Game, Ryan Girdusky breaks down the numbers behind the Texas primary elections and why the media narrative about what happened doesn’t match the data. Ryan dives into the surprisingly strong showing from Senator John Cornyn, who led Attorney General Ken Paxton despite being massively outspent in polling expectations and facing intense grassroots criticism. What do the vote totals, spending gaps, and regional turnout actually reveal about the future of Texas Republican politics—and why might this race signal a coming leadership shakeup in the Lone Star State? He also analyzes the shocking defeat of Congressman Dan Crenshaw, who lost his primary despite outspending his opponent 9-to-1. Ryan explains why the loss had less to do with national narratives and more to do with candidate popularity, donor sentiment, and grassroots backlash. Then Ryan turns to the Democratic side, where state Rep. James Talarico defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett in a high-profile primary. As the media begins portraying Talarico as a potential Democrat who could flip Texas, Ryan examines his record, policy positions, and the political strategy behind the party’s attempt to build the next national progressive star. Along the way, Ryan explores: The real numbers behind Cornyn vs. Paxton and why polling missed the mark Why Crenshaw’s defeat shocked Washington but not Texas insiders The controversy surrounding Rep. Tony Gonzales and his upcoming runoff The looming power vacuum in Texas GOP leadership over the next decade Why Democrats are betting big on James Talarico What the results mean for 2026 midterms and the future of Texas politicsFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Tudor Dixon Podcast, Tudor Dixon sits down with Dave Asprey, the founder of Bulletproof Coffee and widely known as the father of the biohacking movement, to explore how everyday people can take control of their health, energy, and longevity. Dave shares how he transformed his own life after once weighing nearly 300 pounds and suffering from chronic fatigue. Now, he’s on a mission to help others optimize their bodies and minds through biohacking—using science, nutrition, and environmental changes to improve energy, mental clarity, and long-term health. Tudor and Dave discuss: What biohacking actually means and why it’s now a $36 billion industry Simple daily habits that can boost energy, focus, and brain health The truth about coffee, mold, and morning routines Why many people may be overmedicated instead of optimizing their biology Nutrition myths, including controversial takes on kale, protein, and diet trends The growing science behind longevity and cognitive performance Dave also explains how listeners can learn more at the upcoming Beyond Biohacking Conference, where thousands gather to explore cutting-edge health technologies, longevity science, and performance optimization. 🎟 Exclusive Offer for Tudor Dixon Podcast listeners:Dave’s team has provided a $400 discount for Tudor’s audience. Use code TUDOR400 at checkout to get $400 off Luminary, Visionary, or Explorer tickets. 👉 Get tickets here: www.beyondconference.com If you’re curious about improving your health, fighting brain fog, boosting energy, or living longer, this conversation dives into the tools and ideas behind the rapidly growing world of biohacking.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Lisa Boothe speaks with FOX News Contributor & former FBI Agent, Nicole Parker about rising security concerns in the United States as tensions escalate with Iran and instability grows in the Middle East. Parker breaks down the suspected terrorist attack in Austin, Texas, explaining why “lone offender” attacks are among the most difficult threats for law enforcement to detect and stop. She also explains how individuals can be radicalized online, why soft targets like bars, concerts, and sporting events are often chosen, and what Americans should do in an active shooter situation using the FBI’s “Run, Hide, Fight” guidance. The conversation also dives into national security concerns tied to immigration and border policy, including reports of individuals on terror watch lists entering the United States. Parker discusses the challenges facing the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security, and how joint terrorism task forces work with local law enforcement to stop threats before they happen. Finally, Parker warns that future attacks may not resemble September 11 attacks, emphasizing that cyber attacks on critical infrastructure—such as power grids, water systems, or emergency services—may pose an even greater risk. Topics covered include: The suspected terror attack in Austin and the rise of lone offender violence Radicalization and recruitment through social media and online networks Concerns over sleeper cells and unvetted border crossings Why cyber warfare may be the next major battlefield How the FBI and local police work together to stop attacks before they happen Parker also shares her perspective on reforms inside the FBI and the renewed focus on national security threats as the U.S. navigates an increasingly volatile global environment. Purchase Nicole's NEW Book HEREFollow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Defending the Victims of Child Sex Abuse: How Trey’s Law Is Going National In one of the most emotional and consequential episodes of Verdict with Ted Cruz to date, Senator Ted Cruz and co‑host Ben Ferguson sat down in Washington, D.C. with a courageous guest whose story is reshaping the national conversation about child protection. Elizabeth Phillips—sister of the late Trey Carlock, a survivor of years of sexual abuse at a well‑known summer camp—joined the show to discuss the growing bipartisan momentum behind Trey’s Law, newly introduced by Senator Cruz in the United States Senate. This episode wasn’t about politics, polls, or campaigns. It was about protecting children, amplifying the voices of survivors, and confronting a disturbing reality in America: child sexual abuse is widespread, chronically underreported, and too often covered up by powerful institutions using non‑disclosure agreements (NDAs) to silence victims. For parents, for survivors, and for anyone who cares about ensuring that abuse is never hidden in the shadows again, this is an episode—and a movement—you cannot ignore. The Epidemic: Child Sexual Abuse in America Senator Cruz opened with a chilling reality check: A child in the U.S. is sexually abused every nine minutes. 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be abused before the age of 18. Most victims will never disclose their abuse, or not until decades later. This phenomenon—known as delayed disclosure—is well‑documented. Children rarely come forward immediately. Many wait until adulthood. Some never speak out at all. Yet despite this, institutions facing civil litigation routinely push victims—sometimes still legally children—into signing NDAs that silence them for life. Those NDAs become powerful tools not for justice, but for cover‑ups, helping predators avoid exposure and enabling institutions to protect their reputations rather than the children in their care. As Senator Cruz put it, “We cannot always prevent the first victimization. But we can stop the second victimization—when institutions use NDAs to muzzle survivors.” Trey’s Story: Groomed, Abused, Silenced—And a Family’s Fight for Truth Elizabeth Phillips shared the heartbreaking story of her brother Trey, whose life was stolen long before he died. Beginning at age seven, Trey attended Kanakuk Camps in Missouri—a “faith‑based” youth camp trusted by families across the South and Midwest. Behind the façade, a camp director was grooming and abusing Trey and other children for years. The perpetrator was eventually sentenced to three consecutive life terms. But by then, decades of damage had been done. What Elizabeth and many other families would later learn is that Kanakuk staff and leadership had systematically concealed years of abuse—not reporting predators, not warning parents, and in many cases moving known abusers to other affiliated ministries. The more survivors came forward, the clearer the pattern became. Elizabeth’s investigation with other families revealed over 90 alleged perpetrators connected to the camp or its affiliated ministries. But the final blow came when Trey—under pressure from the camp, its lawyers, and even his own attorney—was convinced to sign a restrictive NDA as part of a civil settlement. The secrecy consumed him. He could not speak about what happened to him—not even in therapeutic settings—without fear of retaliation. At age 28, Trey died by suicide. His last words to a therapist still haunt Elizabeth: “They will always control me. I will never be free.” The Birth of Trey’s Law: Ending NDAs for Child Sex Abuse Victims Trey’s Law is simple but groundbreaking. It makes NDAs in cases of child sexual abuse: Void Unenforceable Illegal to require in a civil settlement Importantly, victims retain the right to request an NDA if they want privacy. The bill protects survivors—not institutions, not predators. Texas and Missouri have already passed versions of Trey’s Law thanks to survivors like Elizabeth and advocates across the political spectrum. Now, Senator Cruz, along with bipartisan co‑sponsor Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and five additional senators, has introduced it federally. This is where the movement goes national. A Survivor’s Courage: Jaden’s Story Shakes the Room At the press conference announcing Trey’s Law, a 19‑year‑old named Jaden Harris shared her story publicly—for the very first time—protected by the Missouri version of Trey’s Law. Her testimony was nothing short of stunning. Jaden was sexually abused by a well‑known Branson entertainer who remains out in public today, performing around families and children. When she pursued civil action, both her abuser and her own lawyer tried to force her into a lifetime NDA. But because Trey’s Law existed in Missouri, she could not be legally silenced. Her words captured the entire purpose of the legislation: “Imagine being told you can never tell your own truth. Trey’s Law protected me. No agreement could take away my right to speak.” There was not a dry eye in the room. As Ben Ferguson noted, this is why these stories must be shared—because one survivor speaking publicly can inspire dozens more to come forward and save future victims from harm. How NDAs Help Cover Up Crimes—and Enable More Abuse The most disturbing revelation from Elizabeth’s investigation is how institutions use NDAs not only to bury past abuse, but to buy time until victims age out of civil statute‑of‑limitations windows. In Missouri, for example, victims must file civil claims against institutions by age 26—a law that has remained unchanged since 1939. Kanakuk leadership, she explained, bought enough silence to ensure many victims were too old to file by the time they realized what happened to them. This isn’t just misconduct. It’s institutional abuse, layered on top of the original crime. It is impossible to read Elizabeth’s findings, hear Jaden’s testimony, or look at the sheer number of alleged perpetrators without recognizing the truth: NDAs have been weaponized against victims for decades. Trey’s Law would end that nationwide. Why Conservatives Should Champion Trey’s Law Multiple themes throughout the episode resonate deeply with conservative values: 1. Protecting Children First. The protection of minors is not a partisan issue—it is a moral one. Nothing is more fundamental than safeguarding vulnerable children. 2. Transparency Over Secrecy. Conservatives have long argued that corrupt systems thrive in darkness. NDAs allow predators to hide behind legal shields and prevent parents from learning the truth. 3. Empowering Families, Not Institutions. No child should ever lose their voice so that an institution can protect its brand or revenue stream. 4. Accountability Matters. Just as Senator Cruz has long advocated tough measures against sexual predators—including defending laws that allow harsh penalties for the worst offenders—Trey’s Law strengthens public safety and stops repeat victimization. This is common sense. This is moral clarity. And this is why Trey’s Law enjoys broad bipartisan support—and strong enthusiasm from conservatives across the country. How Listeners Can Make a Difference—Right Now Senator Cruz made the call to action unmistakably clear: 1. Share this episode. Put it on Facebook, X, Instagram, Truth Social—everywhere. You never know which survivor may find the courage to come forward because of it. 2. Call your senators and representatives. Offices track every call. When phones light up about an issue, it moves legislation. Tell them you support Trey’s Law and expect them to support it too. 3. Help survivors access resources. Facts About Kanakuk: factsaboutkanakuk.com Trey’s Law Advocacy: treyslaw.org No More Victims Alliance: nmvalliance.org 4. Speak out. Post on social media. Encourage your community. Let survivors know they are not alone. As Senator Cruz emphasized: “Your geography should not determine whether you’re allowed to tell the truth about a predator.” A Movement Built on Pain, Purpose, and Truth At the end of the episode, Senator Cruz thanked Elizabeth for transforming unbearable personal grief into national advocacy that has already changed the law in multiple states—and soon, with God’s help and the support of the American people, the entire country. As Elizabeth said so powerfully: “Grief can be love in action.” Trey’s Law is that action. This moment is that action. And every person who shares this story or makes a phone call is part of that action. This is how we protect the next child. This is how we end the era of silence. This is how we honor Trey and countless others. 👉 Listen and Subscribe to Verdict with Ted Cruz Want to hear the full discussion and stay informed on the issues that matter most? Subscribe to the Verdict with Ted Cruz podcast today on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. New episodes drop every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson.Follow Clay & Buck on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.