A planned Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, which Ben describes as a first-of-its-kind event intended to promote President Donald Trump's policies and encourage voter turnout ahead of the November elections. President Donald Trump's Labor Day message, in which Trump predicts significant Republican victories in the upcoming midterms and criticizes Democrats. The historical difficulty of a party controlling both the presidency and Congress retaining its majorities during midterm elections. The segment references examples from 2002 and 1934. Recent polling, including a Harvard-Harris poll showing a narrow Republican advantage among likely voters. The Texas Senate race between Ken Paxton and James Tallarico, presented as a key contest that could influence Senate control. Financial support from MAGA Inc., a Trump-aligned super PAC, which reportedly plans to spend $10 million promoting Ken Paxton and criticizing James Tallarico. Advertising messages focused largely on tax policy, with ads portraying Paxton as supporting tax reductions and criticizing Tallarico's voting record 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, Senator Ted Cruz reflects on the release of Cruz’s fifth book, discuss the inspiration behind the project, and examine key themes from Clarence Thomas’s life. They cover Thomas’s childhood, his formative relationship with his grandfather, his experiences with racism, his years as a student activist, his return to faith, and the judicial philosophy that has defined more than three decades on the Supreme Court. Cruz also discusses the significance of Thomas’s confirmation battle and why he believes Thomas’s legacy will continue to shape American jurisprudence for generations.  Senator Ted Cruz’s new book, Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas, became an Amazon bestseller upon release. In this episode, Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss why he chose to write a biography of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, what he learned during hours of personal interviews, and why he believes Thomas’s life story is one of the most important and overlooked in America today. The conversation follows the podcast’s exclusive two-part interview with Justice Thomas and explores the personal, intellectual, and judicial journey that shaped one of the most consequential figures in modern American law. Cruz explains why Thomas’s rise from poverty in rural Georgia to the Supreme Court remains deeply relevant, and why he wanted to make that story accessible to readers beyond legal and political circles.  Topics Covered: The release and early success of Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas Clarence Thomas’s upbringing in Pin Point, Georgia, and rise from poverty His intellectual journey from student radicalism to conservative legal thought The influence of faith, family, and education on his development Thomas’s Supreme Court jurisprudence and approach to writing opinions The confirmation hearings, Anita Hill allegations, and their lasting political impact 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump-Venezuela Oil Deal  Trump has reached an agreement involving access to 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil.  Examines potential benefits for U.S. energy, jobs, and long-term gasoline prices.  Raises concerns about dealing with the Venezuelan government, competition issues for private energy companies such as Chevron, and government ownership stakes in businesses.  Texas Senate Candidate James Tallarico  Previously recorded comments by James Tallarico regarding climate change, capitalism, and social justice have been released.  Cruz argues that Tallarico's views are far outside the political mainstream in Texas.  The discussion focuses heavily on capitalism, energy policy, and ideological differences between Republican and Democratic candidates.  Michigan Senate Candidate Abdul El-Sayed  Examines Abdul El-Sayed’s planned participation in an Islamic convention near the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.  Discusses other speakers at the event, alleged ties to controversial organizations, and debates surrounding 9/11-related commentary.  Cruz and Ferguson frame the issue as part of a broader discussion about ideological divisions within the Democratic Party.  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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump-Venezuela Oil Deal An oil agreement involving Venezuela's estimated 65 billion barrels of oil. Examination of potential benefits for U.S. energy access, jobs, and long-term gasoline prices. Concerns about dealing with the Venezuelan government, competition issues for private energy companies such as Chevron, and the federal government's ownership stakes in private businesses. Government Equity Ownership and Socialism Debate A serious discussion about the federal government acquiring equity positions in companies. Comparison to government involvement in industry and warnings about government control of private enterprise. References to prior investments in companies such as Intel and broader concerns about economic policy. Texas Senate Candidate James Talarico Criticism of Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Tallarico. Focus on past comments regarding capitalism, climate change, and social justice. Discussion of energy policy, oil and gas production, and political ideology in Texas. Michigan Senate Candidate Abdul El-Sayed Coverage of Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed and his participation in an Islamic convention occurring near the anniversary of September 11. Discussion of individuals allegedly connected to the event and concerns about 9/11 conspiracy theories. Examination of El-Sayed's past public statements and social media posts relating to 9/11 and U.S. foreign policy. Commentary on ideological divisions within the Democratic Party. References to prominent Democratic figures and debates over the party's direction, socialism, foreign policy, and activism. 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 47 Morning Update w Ben Ferguson, Ben examines the escalating conflict between Democratic Party veterans and influential voices on the far left, focusing on James Carville’s criticism of Piker, the role of the Democratic Socialists of America, and what they argue are signs of growing tension within the party. They discuss ideological battles over socialism, party identity, economic policy, generational politics, and the potential electoral consequences of those divisions. A growing dispute inside the Democratic Party is drawing national attention as longtime Democratic strategist James Carville publicly denounces streamer and self-described socialist Hasan Piker, arguing that Democratic Socialists should stop using the Democratic label. The clash raises a larger question: is the party experiencing a genuine ideological divide, or simply confronting the consequences of empowering its progressive wing? The debate comes as Democratic Socialists, progressive activists, and party establishment figures argue over the future direction of the party ahead of a major election. Comments from Carville, responses from Piker, and broader concerns about socialism, party branding, and voter coalitions have intensified the conversation. Topics Covered: James Carville’s criticism of Piker and the Democratic Socialists of America Debate over whether progressive activists represent a faction of the Democratic Party or a separate movement Discussion of Abdul El-Sayed and progressive political organizing Arguments about socialism, government spending, inflation, and economic policy The role of education, media influence, and generational political change Questions about how ideological divisions could affect upcoming elections 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss a CEO roundtable focused on Trump Accounts, contributions pledged by business leaders including Michael Dell and Gwynne Shotwell, the role of investing education for children, and efforts to broaden nationwide participation. They also pivot to comments previously made by James Talarico, examining his remarks about capitalism, climate policy, and economic systems as Cruz contrasts those views with his own defense of free-market principles. The debate over ownership, investing, and economic opportunity takes center stage as Ted Cruz highlights growing support for Trump Accounts from major business leaders and companies. According to Cruz, the program is designed to expand investing opportunities for children, encourage long-term savings, and create a new generation of investors through tax-advantaged accounts.The episode also examines announcements from corporate leaders and philanthropists who have pledged contributions to Trump Accounts, along with efforts to expand participation through employer matching programs and automatic enrollment initiatives. Cruz argues that the program could have long-term effects on how families think about saving, investing, and financial literacy. Topics Covered: CEO support and employer participation in Trump Accounts Contributions announced by Michael Dell, Susan Dell, and Gwynne Shotwell Auto-enrollment plans and nationwide account access Financial literacy, investing, and ownership for children Brad Gerstner's role in developing the original Invest America concept James Talarico's comments on capitalism, climate policy, and economic systems 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the 47 Morning Update w Ben Ferguson, Ben examines the Supreme Court's decision allowing work on the White House ballroom project to proceed despite ongoing litigation. They discuss the Court's analysis of standing, the debate over presidential authority, and what the ruling could mean for future legal challenges against executive actions. The conversation then turns to a newly announced Venezuela energy agreement that the administration describes as a historic opportunity for American energy access. Ben breaks down the reported structure of the deal, the role of private investment, the strategic implications for U.S. energy policy, and the administration's argument that greater access to Western Hemisphere energy resources could reduce dependence on hostile foreign suppliers.  A 5-4 Supreme Court decision allows construction of the new White House ballroom and related complex to continue while legal challenges move forward. The ruling focuses on whether the groups bringing the lawsuit have standing to sue, a question that could have implications beyond this single project. At the same time, the Trump administration is highlighting a major energy agreement tied to Venezuelan oil reserves. Supporters argue the deal could strengthen long-term U.S. energy security, reshape geopolitical influence in the Western Hemisphere, and eventually affect energy markets.  Topics Covered: Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling on the White House ballroom project Legal debate over standing and federal court challenges Ongoing litigation involving the National Trust for Historic Preservation Reported U.S. access to Venezuelan oil reserves and production rights Energy security, oil markets, and long-term supply strategy Geopolitical competition involving Venezuela, Russia, China, and the United States 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss reported Chinese bot farm activity targeting the debate over AI data centers, the political and economic implications of America’s AI race with China, and the Trump administration’s newly announced Venezuela oil agreement. They examine potential benefits for energy production and jobs, concerns surrounding government equity ownership in private ventures, and broader questions about national security, economic policy, and technological leadership. China-linked bot networks are reportedly pushing anti-data center narratives across social media, raising new questions about artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure, and U.S. competitiveness. At the same time, the Trump administration has announced a major oil agreement involving Venezuela and access to an estimated 65 billion barrels of oil, a move that could carry significant economic and geopolitical consequences. Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson examine claims that Chinese influence operations are attempting to shape public opinion against AI data centers by amplifying concerns about electricity use and water consumption. They discuss why AI infrastructure has become a national security issue, how public perceptions have shifted in recent months, and what they see as the stakes in the competition between the United States and China. The episode also explores concerns about power generation, grid capacity, and the role data centers play in supporting AI development across industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing and technology. Senator Cruz argues that future projects should generate sufficient power to avoid burdening local communities while delivering tangible benefits to residents.  Topics Covered: Reported Chinese bot farm activity influencing debate over AI data centers AI infrastructure, national security, and competition with China Electricity demand, power generation, and data center policy debates The role of AI in healthcare, industry, and technological innovation Trump administration announcement of a Venezuela oil agreement involving 65 billion barrels of oil Concerns about federal government equity stakes in private companies and economic policy 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 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, Senator Ted Cruz reflects on the release of Cruz’s fifth book, discuss the inspiration behind the project, and examine key themes from Clarence Thomas’s life. They cover Thomas’s childhood, his formative relationship with his grandfather, his experiences with racism, his years as a student activist, his return to faith, and the judicial philosophy that has defined more than three decades on the Supreme Court. Cruz also discusses the significance of Thomas’s confirmation battle and why he believes Thomas’s legacy will continue to shape American jurisprudence for generations.  Senator Ted Cruz’s new book, Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas, became an Amazon bestseller upon release. In this episode, Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss why he chose to write a biography of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, what he learned during hours of personal interviews, and why he believes Thomas’s life story is one of the most important and overlooked in America today. The conversation follows the podcast’s exclusive two-part interview with Justice Thomas and explores the personal, intellectual, and judicial journey that shaped one of the most consequential figures in modern American law. Cruz explains why Thomas’s rise from poverty in rural Georgia to the Supreme Court remains deeply relevant, and why he wanted to make that story accessible to readers beyond legal and political circles.  Topics Covered: The release and early success of Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas Clarence Thomas’s upbringing in Pin Point, Georgia, and rise from poverty His intellectual journey from student radicalism to conservative legal thought The influence of faith, family, and education on his development Thomas’s Supreme Court jurisprudence and approach to writing opinions The confirmation hearings, Anita Hill allegations, and their lasting political impact 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson discuss the inspiration behind Cruz’s new book, the extensive interviews he conducted with Clarence Thomas, the justice’s remarkable life story, his legal philosophy, and the contentious confirmation battle that brought him to the Supreme Court. They also reflect on why Thomas remains one of the most influential and debated figures in American law. The release of Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas sparks a behind-the-scenes conversation about why Senator Ted Cruz spent years researching and writing a biography of one of the most consequential Supreme Court justices in American history. Fresh off the book’s debut and a rare two-part podcast interview with Clarence Thomas, Cruz explains why he believes Thomas’s personal journey, intellectual evolution, and judicial legacy matter today.From growing up in poverty in Pinpoint, Georgia, to becoming a Supreme Court justice, Thomas’s life story is central to Cruz’s argument that Americans should better understand the people who shape the nation’s laws and institutions. The discussion explores Thomas’s upbringing, his years in seminary, his move from radical activism to conservative constitutional thought, and the impact of his judicial opinions. Topics Covered: The launch and early success of Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas Clarence Thomas’s childhood, family influences, and rise from poverty in Georgia His journey from seminary student and activist to conservative legal thinker The judicial philosophy and constitutional approach of Clarence Thomas The 1991 Supreme Court confirmation hearings and their lasting political impact Why Cruz considers Thomas one of the most consequential justices in modern American history 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/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.