Verdict with Ted Cruz

Verdict with Ted Cruz

Join Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson as they break down the most important news stories of the day and reveal what they mean for you. On "Verdict with Ted Cruz,” you will go behind the scenes of the political debates that define our country.

Surging Support to Save College Sports, plus Mollie Hemingway on the Great Justice Sam Alito

Bonus: Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Jun 4 2026

Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton!  If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too.

 

Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

 

We're Paying for Fraud

 

Clay Travis and Buck Sexton talk about the massive government fraud and systemic inefficiencies, particularly within healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The hosts highlight a Department of Justice crackdown in Ohio involving fraud schemes totaling over $50 million, emphasizing that such cases are only “the tip of the iceberg.” Clay and Buck argue that healthcare fraud is a nationwide crisis, driven by bureaucratic complexity, lack of transparency, and excessive government involvement in the healthcare system. They cite examples of fraudulent billing practices—including cases where providers billed for nonexistent or even deceased patients—and criticize a system that allows billions in taxpayer funds to be misused.

 

A key focus of the discussion is how healthcare costs and administrative bloat contribute to both inefficiency and fraud. The hosts point to the massive number of healthcare administrators and argue that the current structure incentivizes maximizing billing rather than delivering patient care. They also examine how ordinary Americans are disconnected from the true cost of healthcare, which reduces accountability and enables exploitation. Listener input reinforces this argument, with one caller suggesting that reintroducing direct patient financial responsibility could help restore cost discipline and reduce abuse.

 

The Guy Behind the AI Pratt Videos 

 

Clay and Buck interview filmmaker Charles Curran, the creator behind the viral pro–Spencer Pratt AI political ads, which have become a major talking point in the ongoing Los Angeles mayoral race. They talk about the rise of artificial intelligence in political campaigns and digital media. Curran explains how his small team of four used emerging AI video tools to produce high-impact, low-cost campaign content that garnered hundreds of millions of views across social media and traditional platforms. The hosts emphasize that this represents a transformational shift in political communication, comparing AI-generated campaign videos to modern-day “political cartoons” that can cut through media noise and engage younger voters. They argue that AI-driven storytelling—rooted in humor, cultural relevance, and perceived authenticity—has the potential to disrupt traditional campaign advertising and lower production costs while dramatically increasing reach and influence. 

 

The interview also highlights growing dissatisfaction with conditions in Los Angeles, which inspired Curran’s work. He describes widespread concerns about crime, homelessness, public safety, and urban decay, noting that these issues extend beyond traditionally lower-income neighborhoods into more affluent areas. Clay and Buck connect this to a broader political narrative, suggesting that grassroots frustration with governance in California is fueling outsider candidates and unconventional campaign strategies like the Spencer Pratt movement.

 

College Sports is the Wild, Wild West

 

Clay and Buck interview House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who outlines the legislative agenda heading into the summer and addresses key policy debates dominating Washington.

A major focus is the ongoing effort to reform college athletics and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policies, a rapidly evolving issue in sports law and governance. Scalise explains that Congress is working to reconcile differences between competing House and Senate bills aimed at restoring structure to what he describes as a “wild west” environment in college sports. He highlights concerns about lack of NCAA enforcement power, inconsistent state rules, athlete exploitation by agents, and the risk of athletes being classified as employees. The discussion emphasizes the need for antitrust protections, athlete safeguards, financial literacy programs, and standardized rules to stabilize college athletics while maintaining competitiveness across conferences.

 

The conversation then shifts to legislative priorities and government reform, with Scalise detailing efforts to pass funding for the Department of Homeland Security, combat massive healthcare fraud, and address housing affordability. A key talking point is the discovery of tens of billions of dollars in alleged fraud within federal healthcare programs, reinforcin

BONUS POD: Crackdown on Iran Ties Meets Immigration Overhaul

🧩 1: Criminal Case – Sanctions Violations:

  • A 63-year-old dual U.S.-Iran citizen (Jamshid Ghomi) was arrested in Newport Beach, California.
  • He is accused of:
    • Illegally exporting U.S. computer hardware to Iran
    • Violating U.S. sanctions laws (International Emergency Economic Powers Act)
    • Supplying equipment allegedly used in Iranian military and nuclear programs
  • The scheme allegedly:
    • Lasted over a decade
    • Generated millions of dollars annually
    • Used front companies (UAE), intermediaries (Dubai), and online accounts (eBay/PayPal) to evade detection
  • Additional allegations include:
    • Money laundering
    • Tax evasion (reporting only ~$20,000 income despite multimillion earnings)
  • Authorities claim:
    • Over 250 tons of controlled technology were shipped
    • Equipment went to sanctioned entities and government-linked actors
  • The suspect’s assets, including a $35 million mansion, may be seized.

🧩 2: Immigration Policy & Political Commentary:

  • The policy would require many applicants already in the U.S. to:
    • Leave the country
    • Complete their green card process from abroad
  • It limits the long-standing “adjustment of status” system, where applicants could stay in the U.S. during review.
  • The rule:
    • Closes loopholes
    • Returns to the original intent of immigration law
    • Makes the system more orderly and controlled
  • Emphasizes:
    • Restricting pathways from temporary visas to permanent residency
    • Prioritizing national interests

Critics (Democrats & advocates):

  • Argue the policy:
    • Could affect hundreds of thousands of immigrants
    • Might separate families
    • Could disrupt jobs and education
    • Forces applicants into slow overseas processing systems

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

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Major Tax Cuts for virtually EVERY American Taxpayer, plus Bringing Ship-Building & Manufacturing Jobs Back to America

1. Tax Cuts

  • 97% of tax filers received a tax cut
  • Total relief: $82 billion
  • Average savings:
    • $100k–$200k earners → ~$1,250
    • $50k–$100k earners → ~$815
  • Policy features emphasized:
    • No tax on tips
    • No tax on overtime
    • No tax on Social Security
    • Expanded standard deduction

2. Media and Political Criticism

  • The media is ignoring or hiding the benefits of the tax cuts
  • Democrats are accused of:
    • Misrepresenting the bill as benefiting only the wealthy
    • Opposing policies that help workers
  • Increase GDP:
    • +1.2% to +1.5% projected growth over several years
  • Put more money into households
  • Stimulate economic activity

3. Manufacturing & Shipbuilding Segment

  • $24+ billion investment in the Coast Guard
  • Building Arctic icebreakers
  • Competing with Russia and China in the Arctic
  • Creation of:
    • 2,000+ jobs in Texas
    • Additional indirect jobs

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

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Bonus: Daily Review with Clay and Buck - Jun 2 2026

Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton!  If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too.

 

Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

 

Hedonic Adaptation

 

Clay Travis and Buck Sexton discuss the growing relevance of political prediction markets, which Clay argues are more accurate than traditional polling. He discusses his own active wagers on key races, including multiple U.S. Senate contests, House control, and long-term presidential projections, highlighting how real-money betting markets are shaping modern election analysis and offering insight into voter expectations. This reinforces a broader theme of the show: skepticism toward conventional polling and increasing reliance on data-driven political forecasting.

 

The hosts also debate whether California’s political landscape has national significance, asking whether issues like crime, homelessness, and governance failures will resonate with voters outside the state. They contrast this with what they see as a more immediate concern for most Americans: gas prices, inflation, and overall cost of living. The discussion underscores a key political question—whether economic pressures or cultural issues will ultimately drive voter decisions in upcoming elections.

 

Vote Steve Hilton!

 

An extended interview with California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton, who outlines his campaign message and policy priorities. Hilton argues that California is ready for change, pointing to widespread dissatisfaction with taxes, crime, homelessness, regulatory burdens, and high cost of living. He emphasizes the importance of the state’s primary system, warning that without sufficient support, Republicans risk being excluded from the general election if two Democratic candidates advance.

 

Hilton presents a platform focused on economic reform and practical solutions, including plans to lower gas prices, reduce regulation, increase opportunity, and address homelessness through enforcement and treatment-based approaches. He also highlights concerns about businesses leaving California and population decline, framing the state’s current trajectory as unsustainable without major policy changes. His campaign emphasizes “common sense” governance and outsider leadership, appealing to voters frustrated with long-term one-party control.

 

The discussion also touches on the impact of endorsements from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, with Hilton arguing that alignment with federal leadership could accelerate reforms and help restore economic growth. The interview reinforces broader themes of anti-establishment sentiment, voter frustration, and the appeal of non-traditional candidates.

 

Make Soccer Great Again 

 

An in-depth interview with Andrew Giuliani, who discusses the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the United States. This segment explores the economic impact, national security planning, and global significance of the tournament, emphasizing its expected $30 billion economic boost and massive international viewership. Giuliani outlines extensive security measures, infrastructure planning, and fan experience logistics, positioning the World Cup as a key moment for showcasing American exceptionalism and large-scale event execution. The discussion includes practical insights on ticket demand, pricing, stadium access, and travel expectations, making it highly relevant for sports fans and event attendees.

 

Are You Excited About 250?

 

An interview with Kelley Paul, author of two new children’s books Goodnight Young American and Goodnight Little American. Her books are designed to introduce young audiences to American history and patriotic themes, focusing on the Founding Fathers, the Revolutionary War, and the ideals of liberty and independence. Paul explains that the books were inspired by a desire to provide family-friendly, patriotic educational content for children, emphasizing storytelling that highlights American courage, freedom, and foundational values. She discusses concerns that modern media and children’s programming may lack this perspective, and positions her books as a way to encourage historical awareness, family engagement, and national pride.

 

Paul also reflects on her personal experiences growing up during the bicentennial and contrasts that era’s widespread community celebrations and patriotic enthusiasm with what she perceives

BONUS POD: There's Some 14 things About Platner

1. Graham Platner at a glance:

  • Extremist symbolism (Nazi SS tattoo)
  • Offensive online behavior (racist, sexist, homophobic remarks)
  • Sexual misconduct or inappropriate online activity
  • Disrespect toward religion, military members, and others
  • Criminal behavior (e.g., DUI)
  • Liberals LOVE HIM!

2. the Democratic Party

  • The Democratic Party protects problematic figures if politically useful.
  • Standards are applied unevenly based on party affiliation.
  • Media bias is asserted—the “corporate media” shields Democrats.
  • Media outlets ignore scandals unless politically convenient.
  • They create and destroy political figures strategically.

3. Moral and Cultural Conflict

The situation is a broader societal issue to:

    • Race
    • LGBTQ+ issues
    • Religion
    • Policing

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

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Nazi Oyster Farmer gets Worse-Will Dems Dump Him? UNRWA Infested with Hamas & Jill Biden covers for Joe's Dementia

1. Maine Senate Candidate Scandal

  • Focuses on a Democratic Senate candidate (referred to as “Graham Plattner”).
  • Presents allegations including:
    • Infidelity and sexually explicit messages
    • Use of a controversial messaging platform allegedly linked to criminal activity
    • Past extreme ideological positions (described with strong labels like “Nazi” and “communist”)
  • The candidate is morally unfit and scandal-ridden.
  • There may be an internal Democratic effort to remove him for political reasons.

2.   Democratic Party Strategy & Infighting

    • Prioritize political power over principles
    • Support candidates despite misconduct until politically inconvenient
      • Party leaders may be leaking damaging information about the candidate
      • A replacement strategy may be underway before election deadlines

3.    UNRWA and Hamas Allegations

    • Alleged ties between staff and Hamas
    • Mentions a reported investigation involving over 1,500 individuals
  • UNRWA is corrupt and dangerous
  • Calls for:
    • Defunding
    • Legal action
    • Possible designation as a terrorist-linked organization

4.  Joe Biden & Jill Biden Criticism

    • President Biden’s mental fitness
    • Jill Biden’s public statements defending him
  • Inconsistencies in Jill Biden’s account of a debate night where she said she feared he was having a stroke.
    • A broader cover-up by Democrats and media
    • Lack of transparency about Biden’s condition

5.   Media & Political System Critique

  • Media outlets knowingly suppressed negative information
  • Political actors prioritize power over truth
  • Both scandals and narratives are strategically released

6.   Iran Political Development (Breaking News)

    • Iranian president allegedly submitting a resignation letter
      • Possible internal instability
      • Potential geopolitical implications

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

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Democrat Party says Adios to the Middle, Texas BBQ vs. Vegan Politics & NIL Bill Takes Aim at College Sports Chaos Week In Review

1. 🗳️ Political Commentary on Democrats

  • “extreme,” “radical,” or “out of touch”
  • holding controversial or fringe views

       Democrats Use of Rhetoric & Persuasion

  • Loaded language (“radical,” “crazy,” “dangerous”)
  • Mockery and sarcasm
  • Slippery-slope arguments (e.g., policies leading to extreme consequences)
  • Generalizations about entire political groups

2. 👤 Who is James Talarico?

  • vegan advocacy tied to climate policy
  • progressive views on gender and religion
  • criticism of American symbols
  • immigration-friendly policies

3. 🏈 Policy Segment: NIL / College Sports Bill

Key points of the proposed legislation:

  • Regulates Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) environment
  • Addresses transfer rules for student athletes
  • Prevents creation of a “super league” (SEC + Big Ten merger)
  • Allows joint negotiation of media rights to increase revenue
  • Protects:
    • scholarships
    • non-revenue sports
    • Olympic and women’s sports

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Saving College Sports—Landmark New Legislation that’s a Massive Win for Athletes, Colleges & Fans

1. Athlete Compensation Protection

  • Ensures athletes can:
    • Earn money from legitimate NIL deals
    • Participate in revenue sharing
  • Prohibits:
    • “Pay-for-play” disguised as NIL (e.g., booster cash handouts)

2. Transfer Rules Reform

  • Allows:
    • 1 unrestricted transfer
  • Additional transfers allowed only under specific conditions:
    • Coach leaves
    • Program shuts down
    • Athlete experiences serious issues (e.g., harassment)
  • Otherwise:
    • Athlete must sit out a year (“redshirt”)

3. Eligibility Limits

  • Maximum:
    • 5 years of eligibility
    • Age cap of 24 (with exceptions like military service)
  • Prevents older players from competing with younger athletes.

4. Athlete Health & Safety Protections

  • Mandatory health insurance:
    • Covers injuries for up to 5 years after playing
    • No out-of-pocket costs
  • Creation of a $60 million medical trust fund
  • Stronger enforcement of:
    • Concussion protocols
    • Player safety standards

5. Academic Protections

  • Prevents coaches from:
    • Interfering with class attendance
    • Steering players away from academics

6. Financial & Structural Reforms

  • Allows schools/conferences to:
    • Negotiate media rights collectively (to increase revenue)
  • Requires:
    • Preservation of scholarships and roster spots across all sports

7. Prevention of a “Super League”

  • Explicitly blocks formation of a mega-conference (e.g., SEC + Big Ten merger)
  • Aims to preserve competitive balance and opportunities for smaller schools

8. Coaching Stability Rule

  • Coaches cannot:
    • Leave for another job during a season or playoffs
  • Designed to protect teams and players (informally referred to as the “Lane Kiffin rule”)

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

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BONUS POD: From Texas to Tehran—Cabinet Meeting Signals Full-Throttle America First Agenda

1. 🇮🇷 Iran & National Security

  • Iran is described as economically weak, with claims of:
    • High inflation
    • Declining oil exports
    • Internal instability
  • Trump’s strategy is portrayed as maximum pressure diplomacy:
    • No sanctions relief until demands are met
    • Willingness to escalate if negotiations fail
  • Strong rhetoric suggests the U.S. has military and negotiating advantage

2. 🌍 Strait of Hormuz & Energy Security

  • Highlights the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz (a key global oil route)
  • Emphasizes concerns about global energy disruption
  • Suggests the U.S. intends to monitor and influence stability in the region

3. 🚧 Immigration & Border Security

  • Claims major success in:
    • Reducing illegal immigration (even citing “zero entries”)
    • Increasing deportations and enforcement
  • Border policy is framed as directly tied to national security
  • Contrasts sharply with the prior administration’s policies, which are criticized

4. 📉 Crime & Public Safety

  • Attributes a drop in murder rates to immigration enforcement policies
  • Suggests removing undocumented individuals reduces crime
  • These claims are presented without independent verification in the text

5. 💰 Economy & Energy Policy

  • Focuses on energy independence (“energy dominance”):
    • Increasing domestic oil and gas production
    • Reducing reliance on foreign energy
  • Mentions:
    • New oil production in Alaska
    • Potential expansion in California
  • Criticizes environmental regulations as harmful to the economy

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

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