Verdict with Ted Cruz

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, reinforcing a broader theme across the show about government inefficiency and the need for stronger oversight. The hosts and Scalise frame these initiatives as part of a broader push to reduce wasteful spending, improve national security, and deliver tangible economic benefits for American households.

Clay and Buck Going to Hollywood?

Clay and Buck talk with bestselling author Brad Thor, who joins the show to discuss his latest thriller Choke Point, the future of storytelling, and the intersection of fiction with real-world geopolitics. Thor provides insights into his writing process, explaining how he develops plotlines inspired by current events—such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative—and transforms them into high-stakes geopolitical thrillers. He also shares his views on artificial intelligence in creative industries, arguing that while AI can generate content, it lacks the human creativity and emotional depth needed for compelling storytelling.

The discussion with Thor expands into Hollywood, streaming platforms like Netflix, and the adaptation of books into movies and television, highlighting a growing trend of multimedia storytelling. Thor also previews upcoming projects, including a major film adaptation of his work, underscoring the continued convergence of traditional publishing and visual media in today’s entertainment landscape.

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🧩 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

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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

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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 as a less unified national mood today. She emphasizes the importance of teaching younger generations about American history through accessible and engaging formats, including literature and family traditions such as visiting historical sites.

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: https://www.clayandbuck.com/

Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton on Social Media:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz
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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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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.