1. Iran Protests and U.S. Response

• There are ongoing nationwide protests in Iran, described as nearing a “breaking point” after roughly two weeks.
• Protesters are portrayed as ordinary civilians seeking freedom, dignity, and economic relief.
• The Iranian regime is accused of:
  • Opening fire on protesters
  • Killing at least 40 people in 10 days
  • Using mass arrests, imprisonment, and violence by the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps)

---

2. Trump Administration Support for Protesters

• Strong emphasis is placed on President Donald Trump’s support for Iranian protesters.
• At the UN Security Council, the U.S. ambassador (identified as Mike Waltz/Walls in the text) states:
  • The U.S. stands firmly with the Iranian people
  • The Iranian regime alone is responsible for economic misery and repression
  • “All options are on the table”, signaling potential U.S. action
• Trump is repeatedly described as a “man of action”, contrasted with:
  • The UN as ineffective
  • Prior U.S. leadership under Obama and Biden as weak or passive

3. ICE Agent Attacks

• Ongoing attacks on ICE agents in the United States, particularly in Minnesota.
• Including:
  • ICE vehicles vandalized
  • Slogans such as “F ICE” and “Best agent is a dead agent”
• The violence is the cause of:
  • Democratic leaders
  • Left-wing rhetoric and alleged financial backing of agitators

---

4. White House Statement on ICE Violence

• White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt:
  • Defends ICE agents as patriotic law enforcement
  • Condemns rhetoric comparing ICE to Nazis or Gestapo
  • Argues political language is directly inciting violence
• Investigations are mentioned into:
  • Who is financing the attacks
  • Possible organized efforts similar to BLM or Occupy Wall Street

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid

• Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
• All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries.
• One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot.
• Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture.
• Emphasis on:
  • Heroism and discipline of U.S. forces
  • No American fatalities despite being outnumbered
  • Significant Cuban forces defending Maduro were reportedly killed

---

2. Symbolism and Morale

• Soldiers and their families (wives present) showed strong morale and faith.
• Soldiers expressed eagerness to return to duty.
• A former commanding officer expressed regret at missing the mission, reinforcing camaraderie and pride.

---

3. Meeting with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado

• Cruz met with Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader now living in exile in the United States.
• Machado:
  • Previously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
  • Met with President Donald Trump at the White House
  • Symbolically presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as gratitude for U.S. support

---

4. Political Situation in Venezuela

• Widespread celebration in Venezuela following Maduro’s removal.
• Some political prisoners released, though still monitored.
• Current acting leadership (Delcy Rodríguez) is described as illegitimate and a continuation of the Maduro regime.
• Machado strongly advocates for:
  • Free and fair elections
  • A swift election timeline (Cruz suggests within six months)

---

5. Bipartisan Senate Meeting

• Machado met with about a dozen U.S. senators, including Republicans and Democrats.
• Cruz praises her decision to pursue bipartisan unity instead of partisan attacks.
• Unity from the U.S. is portrayed as critical for Venezuela’s democratic transition.

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: 

1. Supreme Court Case Overview

• The Attorney General of West Virginia led a case to uphold a state law prohibiting biological males from competing in female sports.
• The case reached the U.S. Supreme Court after the ACLU sued West Virginia immediately following the law’s passage.
• The outcome is expected to have nationwide implications for similar laws in other states.

2. Core Arguments for the Law

• Safety & Fairness: Biological differences create unfair advantages and increase injury risks for female athletes.
• Privacy Concerns: Issues with shared locker rooms and potential sexual assaults were cited.
• Competitive Integrity: Advocates argue that sports teach discipline and resilience, which is undermined if competition is inherently unequal.

3. Title IX & Equal Protection

• Title IX was designed to protect women’s access to sports and education; the law uses “sex” as a basis for delineation.
• West Virginia argues its law supports Title IX by preserving opportunities for women.
• Equal Protection Clause: The state claims its approach is rational and fair, while the ACLU argues it discriminates against transgender individuals.

4. Broader Social & Ethical Concerns

• The document criticizes early gender transition for children, framing it as harmful and profit-driven.
• Raises moral questions about parental decisions, medical practices, and societal impact.
• Suggests the issue could be viewed historically as one of the most dangerous trends affecting children.

5. Cultural Commentary

• Highlights admiration for women’s sports for their style and integrity.
• Mentions prominent athletes like Riley Gaines and Martina Navratilova advocating for protecting women’s sports.
• Notes growing public support for restricting transgender participation in women’s sports.

6. Expected Impact

• A favorable ruling for West Virginia could validate similar laws in 27 other states.
• Could lead to lawsuits in states allowing transgender athletes in women’s sports.
• Decision anticipated by June or July; likely to set a major precedent.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. Situation in Iran

• Mass Killings & Crackdown: Thousands have reportedly been killed or abducted by the Iranian regime during protests.
• U.S. Response:
  • President Trump and the White House are applying maximum pressure on Iran.
  • Actions include canceling meetings with Iranian officials, imposing a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran, and signaling possible military intervention.
  • Military options remain on the table; U.S. security teams are reviewing potential responses, including airstrikes.
• Global Reaction:
  • European nations summoned Iranian ambassadors.
  • Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers advocate restoring internet access in Iran to help protesters organize.
• Iranian Threats:
  • Iranian state TV issued threats against President Trump, referencing past assassination attempts.

---

2. U.S. Domestic Issues

• Supreme Court Debate:
  • A major discussion occurred about men in women’s sports and defining what constitutes a woman.
  • The ACLU reportedly struggled to define “woman” during arguments.
• Senate Hearing on Abortion Pills:
  • Focused on safety and regulation of abortion medication (e.g., Mifepristone).
  • Republicans pushed for stricter oversight; Democrats emphasized access to care.
• Controversial Exchange:
  • Senator Josh Hawley questioned Dr. Nisha Verma (OB-GYN) on whether men can get pregnant.
  • Dr. Verma avoided a direct yes/no answer, citing complexity and patient identities.
  • Hawley insisted on biological clarity, arguing that biological men cannot get pregnant and criticizing refusal to acknowledge this as undermining science and constitutional protections for women.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cases Discussed

1. Case 1: Idaho Law Challenge

   • Idaho law bans transgender girls/women from competing on female sports teams.
   • Legal question: Does this violate the Equal Protection Clause or Title IX (which prohibits sex discrimination in education)?
   • Implications: Upholding the law could validate similar bans in over two dozen states; striking it down could roll back restrictions nationwide.

2. Case 2: West Virginia Law Challenge

   • West Virginia law bars transgender girls from girls’ sports teams.
   • Plaintiff: Becky Pepper-Jackson, a transgender student seeking to compete in girls’ track and field.
   • Legal issue: Whether states can categorize sports teams based solely on biological sex at birth under Title IX and Equal Protection.

---

Arguments Presented

• States’ Position:
  • Separation by biological sex protects fairness and safety in women’s sports.
  • Title IX historically supports sex-based distinctions for competitive equity.
• Plaintiffs’ Position:
  • Laws discriminate against transgender students, denying educational and health benefits.
  • Claim that inclusive policies do not harm cisgender girls’ sports (disputed by opponents).

---

Key Themes and Observations

• Physical Advantage Debate: Evidence presented that even after hormone therapy, transgender women retain significant physical advantages (e.g., strength, wingspan).
• Impact on Women’s Sports: Examples cited of injuries and unfair competition in sports like volleyball, boxing, and swimming.
• Judicial Dynamics:
  • Liberal justices (Sotomayor, Kagan, Jackson) expressed strong opposition to bans.
  • Conservative justices appeared sympathetic to state arguments.
• Cultural and Political Commentary:
  • Emphasis on how Supreme Court composition reflects presidential elections.
  • Predictions that the Court may uphold state laws.

---

Broader Implications

• Potential Ruling Timeline: Decision expected in June or July.
• Significance: Outcome will shape Title IX interpretation and state authority over athletic eligibility.
• Framing by Advocacy Groups: ACLU and LGBTQ+ activists frame the issue as a civil rights battle; opponents argue it’s about fairness and safety for women.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 1: U.S. Supreme Court Cases on Transgender Athletes

• Two major cases discussed:
  • Little v. Heacocks (Idaho): Challenges Idaho law banning transgender girls from competing in girls’ sports.
  • West Virginia v. B.P.J.: Similar challenge to West Virginia law.
• Core legal questions:
  • Do these bans violate the Equal Protection Clause or Title IX?
• Arguments:
  • Plaintiffs (transgender athletes): Laws discriminate, deny educational and health benefits; Title IX should protect gender identity.
  • States: Laws ensure fairness and safety; sports historically separated by biological sex.
• Courtroom dynamics:
  • Conservative justices appear sympathetic to states’ arguments.
  • ACLU struggled to define “woman” or “man” during oral arguments.
• Potential impact:
  • Upholding bans could validate similar laws in over two dozen states.
  • Striking them down could expand transgender participation in school sports.
• Expected ruling: Likely in June or July; conservative majority may uphold state laws.

---

Part 2: Iranian Protests and U.S. Response

• Current situation:
  • Widespread protests in Iran met with violent crackdown.
  • Death toll estimates vary:
    • Official Iranian sources: ~2,000 deaths.
    • Rights groups: 3,000–5,000.
    • Unverified claims: up to 12,000–20,000.
  • Over 18,000 detained; communication blackout (internet and phones down).
• Reports of brutality:
  • Live fire, mass arrests, hospitals overwhelmed.
  • Doctors report hundreds of eye injuries from gunshots.
• U.S. stance:
  • President warns Iran against executions of protesters.
  • Promises strong action and urges Iranians to keep protesting.
  • Suspends meetings with Iranian officials until violence stops.
• Travel advisory:
  • “Do not travel to Iran.”
  • U.S. citizens in Iran urged to leave immediately; no U.S. embassy presence.
  • Suggested land border departures if safe; shelter in place if unable to leave.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. Bruce Pearl’s Career & Background

• Former Auburn basketball coach; won a Division II national championship and reached the Final Four twice.
• Unique fact: Pearl never played organized basketball (not even JV) before becoming a Division I coach.
• Started as a manager at Boston College, later became an assistant coach at Stanford under Tom Davis.
• Emphasizes making yourself valuable and being authentic as keys to success.

---

2. Coaching Philosophy

• Core principles:
  • “Coach them as hard as you love them” – building deep relationships with players.
  • Empower players and trust them; avoid micromanaging.
  • Great coaches excel at creating offense and getting players good looks.
• Importance of roles and dimensions in a team: maximize strengths, hide weaknesses.
• Advice for young athletes: develop a unique skill or dimension that makes you stand out.

---

3. NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) & College Sports

• Pearl criticizes the NCAA for failing to adapt, calling it “arrogant” and responsible for chaos.
• NIL has transformed college sports:
  • Top rosters now cost $35–$40 million annually.
  • Smaller schools and Olympic sports are at risk of being cut.
• Advocates for urgent reform:
  • Limited antitrust protection and congressional action to create fair rules.
  • Warns that without changes, college sports will shrink to 30–50 elite programs.

---

4. Transfer Portal & Player Relationships

• Challenges in building trust and love when players stay only 6 months.
• Compares transfer portal dynamics to personal relationships—loyalty matters.

---

5. Broader Issues in Sports

• Concerns about betting and commercialization.
• Advice for high school athletes: play multiple sports early, specialize later, focus on nutrition and toughness.

---

6. Views on Israel & Anti-Semitism

• Strong advocate for Israel; sees American Jews as “the country’s greatest patriots.”
• Personal connection: family escaped Europe in 1929; others perished in the Holocaust.
• Believes silence equals complicity; stresses unity between Jews and Christians.
• Addresses rising anti-Semitism but emphasizes America still offers opportunity.

---

7. Cultural & Historical Insights

• Discusses theology, covenant, and shared values between Jews and Christians.
• Critiques “replacement theology” and urges solidarity against bigotry.

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:

1. U.S. Operation in Venezuela

• A report claims the U.S. used sonic weapons during an operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
• Eyewitness testimony from a guard at a Caracas military base describes:
  • Radar systems shutting down.
  • Drones and advanced U.S. technology overwhelming Venezuelan forces.
  • Deployment of sonic weapons causing severe physical effects (nosebleeds, vomiting blood, incapacitation).
• The White House Press Secretary shared the story, possibly as a strategic message to other nations (e.g., Mexico) about U.S. military capabilities.
• Pentagon and White House did not officially confirm the use of sonic weapons.

---

2. Broader U.S. Policy on Cartels

• President Trump reiterated a hardline stance against drug cartels, referencing past actions against drug boats.
• Suggested possible future actions against Mexico if cartels continue to dominate.
• Emphasized national security concerns tied to fentanyl and drug trafficking.

---

3. Cuba’s Reaction

• After Maduro’s capture, Cuba’s Communist Party issued threats against the U.S., warning of severe consequences if similar actions were attempted in Cuba.
• Trump responded, stating Cuba will no longer receive oil or money from Venezuela and urged them to negotiate before it’s “too late.”

---

4. Massive Fraud in Minnesota

• Whistleblowers accuse Governor Tim Walz’s administration of covering up systemic fraud in state programs since 2019.
• Fraud includes:
  • Childcare assistance program.
  • Medicaid-funded programs (autism centers, sober homes, transportation, housing).
  • Feeding Our Future scandal (over $300 million).
• Estimated fraud could reach $9 billion.
• Allegations of political protection and retaliation against whistleblowers.
• Republican-led committee pushing for accountability and reforms (e.g., independent Inspector General, whistleblower protections).

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. U.S. Response to Iran Protests

• President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. is considering airstrikes on Iran to stop the violent crackdown on protesters.
• The White House emphasized that diplomacy remains the first option, but military action is on the table.
• Trump stated that Iran may have crossed a “red line” by killing unarmed protesters.
• Reports indicate massive protests in Iran, with some deaths caused by stampedes and others allegedly by government forces.
• Trump warned Iran that if they harm protesters, the U.S. will respond “very hard.”
• Communication channels remain open between U.S. and Iranian officials despite no formal diplomatic relations.

---

2. Anti-ICE Protests in the U.S.

• Trump pledged to investigate funding sources behind anti-ICE protests, suggesting that protesters may be “professional agitators” funded by dark money.
• DHS and Republican lawmakers claim that anti-ICE groups are not organic and are financed by far-left organizations.
• DHS is deploying up to 1,000 additional federal agents to Minneapolis amid rising anti-ICE protests.
• The protests escalated after an ICE officer fatally shot a woman (Renee Good), which DHS classified as domestic terrorism because she allegedly weaponized her vehicle.
• Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey criticized DHS and ICE, calling their actions harmful to city safety.
• Videos show organized anti-ICE activists blocking traffic, surrounding agents, and resisting law enforcement, leading to federal agents using tear gas and pepper balls.
• ICE and Border Patrol assert they will continue operations despite local opposition.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.