Twist of Irony

Clay and Buck dive into the fallout from the historic Delta Force raid in Venezuela, which captured Nicolás Maduro and killed 32 Cuban bodyguards. They explore the strategic implications of Operation Absolute Resolve, framing it as a modern reaffirmation of the Monroe Doctrine and a bold move by President Trump to reassert U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The hosts discuss how this operation signals a shift in global power dynamics, undermining Chinese and Russian influence and exposing the weakness of authoritarian regimes like Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran.

Republicans Stay at Hotels, Too

Hilton Hotels cut ties with a franchisee after reports surfaced that ICE agents’ reservations were canceled. Clay and Buck frame this as a major shift in corporate behavior, contrasting today’s swift response with the era of performative activism during 2020. They credit the Bud Light backlash as a turning point, warning brands against alienating half the country and highlighting Michael Jordan’s timeless advice: “Republicans buy sneakers too.”

From corporate culture, the discussion pivots to economic policy and tariffs, as Buck cites new research showing Trump’s tariff strategy did not fuel inflation, contrary to predictions by mainstream economists. Clay and Buck argue that tariffs, combined with strong GDP growth, could help balance the federal budget by 2026–2027 if upheld by the Supreme Court. They blast the failures of modern monetary theory and Biden-era spending, emphasizing common-sense economics and Trump’s vindication on trade policy.

What Happens in NY, Won't Stay in NY

Clay and Buck discussing the decline of New York City under Mayor Zohran Mamdani, warning that his radical socialist agenda—framed as replacing “rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism”—could devastate property rights and public safety. They highlight viral clips of Mamdani’s allies advocating for housing as a “collective good,” signaling a push toward shared equity models that undermine private ownership. The hosts argue this reflects the broader influence of unmarried progressive women on Democratic policy, calling them the driving force behind destructive cultural and political trends.

The conversation shifts to economic migration and the future of financial hubs, citing predictions that Miami and South Florida could replace New York as America’s financial capital, while tech billionaires flock to Texas. Clay and Buck attribute this to post-COVID remote work flexibility and tax advantages in states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, contrasting these environments with high-tax states such as New York and California. They warn that as wealthy residents flee, blue states will raise taxes further, accelerating the exodus.

TX Rep. Chip Roy

An in-depth interview with Congressman Chip Roy, who praises President Trump’s bold leadership in Operation Absolute Resolve, the mission that captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. Roy explains the strategic importance of stabilizing Venezuela, restoring its oil production, and preventing resources from flowing to adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. He emphasizes that this is not “nation-building” but a critical move to secure the Western Hemisphere under the Trump Doctrine, strengthen U.S. energy independence, and protect national security. Roy also warns of challenges ahead, including corruption within Venezuela’s regime, and stresses the need for strong rule of law and economic recovery.

The discussion then pivots to the Somali daycare fraud scandal in Minnesota, which has rocked Governor Tim Walz’s political career. Clay and Buck play audio from Walz’s defiant press conference, where he vows not to resign despite mounting evidence of billions in fraudulent welfare payments. Roy underscores how grassroots investigations—like the viral exposé by a 23-year-old YouTuber—are filling the void left by legacy media, signaling a new era of citizen journalism and accountability. He calls for aggressive federal prosecutions, noting that fraud tied to federal funds warrants U.S. attorney involvement, and predicts that heads will roll as investigations expand nationwide.

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Hour 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show launches the first Tuesday of 2026 with major political and geopolitical analysis. Clay and Buck dive into the fallout from the historic Delta Force raid in Venezuela, which captured Nicolás Maduro and killed 32 Cuban bodyguards once considered elite. They explore the strategic implications of Operation Absolute Resolve, framing it as a modern reaffirmation of the Monroe Doctrine and a bold move by President Trump to reassert U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The hosts discuss how this operation signals a shift in global power dynamics, undermining Chinese and Russian influence and exposing the weakness of authoritarian regimes like Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran.

The conversation also examines why Maduro’s vice president may now cooperate with the U.S., speculating on backchannel intelligence ties and the leverage America holds through oil production. Clay and Buck contrast Trump’s decisive leadership with past foreign policy failures, emphasizing lessons learned from Iraq and the importance of working with existing power structures rather than dismantling them. They argue that Trump’s approach could accelerate the collapse of socialism and communism in Latin America, likening this moment to the geopolitical realignment after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Domestically, Hour 1 tackles the political implosion of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, whose career unraveled after his selection as Kamala Harris’s VP candidate brought national attention to the Somali daycare fraud scandal. Clay and Buck mock Democrats’ failed strategy to appeal to male voters by presenting Walz as an “avatar of masculinity,” calling him inauthentic and contrasting him with figures like Ron DeSantis. They speculate that Harris might have fared better with a different running mate, such as Gretchen Whitmer, and highlight how identity politics backfired spectacularly.

The hour also features sharp commentary on Cuba’s role in Maduro’s security, the legacy of Cold War-era Cuban intelligence training by the KGB, and the stunning superiority of U.S. special forces. Clay and Buck discuss broader territorial ambitions, including provocative ideas about making Cuba or even Greenland U.S. protectorates, citing historical precedents like Ulysses Grant’s failed plan to annex the Dominican Republic. They underscore how Trump’s foreign policy strength contrasts with decades of indecision, positioning America as a global power willing to act decisively.

Hour 1 closes with cultural and personal anecdotes, including Clay’s Caribbean holiday, Buck’s family updates, and playful banter about masculinity, home repair skills, and even hypothetical exile destinations for deposed dictators. The segment sets the tone for a year of bold analysis, humor, and unapologetic takes on politics, national security, and American strength.

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The latest episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, hosted by Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson, unpacks one of the most extraordinary events in modern American foreign policy: the flawless U.S. military operation to capture Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. This mission, known as Operation Absolute Resolve, was a stunning display of American strength and strategic precision, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Western Hemisphere.

• Event Summary (WATCH: PRESIDENT TRUMP PRESS CON HERE)
  

  • The U.S. military executed a highly complex and precise operation in Caracas, Venezuela, to apprehend Maduro.
  • The mission involved over 150 aircraft, advanced coordination across multiple military branches, and cyber and space operations.
  • The operation was completed without any American casualties, which is emphasized as a major success.

• Geopolitical Context

  • Venezuela’s significance stems from its vast oil reserves (largest in the world) and strategic location near the U.S.
  • Maduro’s regime is portrayed as illegitimate, corrupt, and deeply involved in drug trafficking and alliances with U.S. adversaries (Russia, China, Iran, Hezbollah).
  • The discussion highlights Venezuela’s decline from being one of the wealthiest nations in the 1950s to a failed state under socialist rule.

• Legal Justifications

  • President Trump acted within his constitutional authority under Article II as Commander-in-Chief.
  • References are made to historical precedents, notably the 1990 capture of Manuel Noriega in Panama.
  • The legal basis includes:
    • FBI’s extraterritorial arrest authority.
    • Precedents like the Ker-Frisbie doctrine and United States v. Alvarez-Machain.
    • DOJ opinions (including one by Bill Barr) affirming presidential power to authorize such actions.
  • Anticipated legal challenges include head-of-state immunity and UN Charter arguments.

• Future Implications (WATCH HERE: Is Cuba Ready to Fall?)
  

  • There will be geopolitical ripple effects in Latin America, especially Cuba and Colombia.
  • Avoiding prolonged U.S. military occupation in Venezuela is key
  • Discussion of possible democratic elections and leadership changes in Venezuela.

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Hour 3 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show dives into explosive political and cultural commentary, major economic shifts, and breaking developments in U.S. foreign policy. The hour opens with Clay and Buck discussing the decline of New York City under Mayor Zohran Mamdani, warning that his radical socialist agenda—framed as replacing “rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism”—could devastate property rights and public safety. They highlight viral clips of Mamdani’s allies advocating for housing as a “collective good,” signaling a push toward shared equity models that undermine private ownership. The hosts argue this reflects the broader influence of unmarried progressive women on Democratic policy, calling them the driving force behind destructive cultural and political trends.

The conversation shifts to economic migration and the future of financial hubs, citing predictions that Miami and South Florida could replace New York as America’s financial capital, while tech billionaires flock to Texas. Clay and Buck attribute this to post-COVID remote work flexibility and tax advantages in states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, contrasting these environments with high-tax states such as New York and California. They warn that as wealthy residents flee, blue states will raise taxes further, accelerating the exodus.

On foreign policy, the hour features an in-depth interview with Congressman Chip Roy, who praises President Trump’s bold leadership in Operation Absolute Resolve, the mission that captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. Roy explains the strategic importance of stabilizing Venezuela, restoring its oil production, and preventing resources from flowing to adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. He emphasizes that this is not “nation-building” but a critical move to secure the Western Hemisphere under the Trump Doctrine, strengthen U.S. energy independence, and protect national security. Roy also warns of challenges ahead, including corruption within Venezuela’s regime, and stresses the need for strong rule of law and economic recovery.

The discussion then pivots to the Somali daycare fraud scandal in Minnesota, which has rocked Governor Tim Walz’s political career. Clay and Buck play audio from Walz’s defiant press conference, where he vows not to resign despite mounting evidence of billions in fraudulent welfare payments. Roy underscores how grassroots investigations—like the viral exposé by a 23-year-old YouTuber—are filling the void left by legacy media, signaling a new era of citizen journalism and accountability. He calls for aggressive federal prosecutions, noting that fraud tied to federal funds warrants U.S. attorney involvement, and predicts that heads will roll as investigations expand nationwide.

Hour 3 closes with sharp cultural commentary, humorous banter about movie Easter eggs (Dumb and Dumber references), and reflections on the importance of codifying Trump’s border security policies to prevent future reversals. Clay and Buck frame these stories as part of a larger battle for America’s future—against socialism, corruption, and media bias—while celebrating the rise of independent voices and decisive leadership.

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The Trump administration kicks off the new year with a massive foreign policy move in Venezuela, seizing Nicolás Maduro and sending a shockwave through the region and beyond. Buck is joined by Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation to break down what comes next, why this operation is fundamentally different from past U.S. interventions, and how adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are likely interpreting the message. They also discuss the implications for Cuba, Latin America, global energy markets, and what this signals about America’s willingness to exert power closer to home.

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The Trump administration kicks off the new year with a massive foreign policy move in Venezuela, seizing Nicolás Maduro and sending a shockwave through the region and beyond. Buck is joined by Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation to break down what comes next, why this operation is fundamentally different from past U.S. interventions, and how adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are likely interpreting the message. They also discuss the implications for Cuba, Latin America, global energy markets, and what this signals about America’s willingness to exert power closer to home.

Never miss a moment from Buck by subscribing to the Buck Sexton Show Podcast on IHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts! 

Connect with Buck Sexton:
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Instagram –   @bucksexton

TikTok - @BuckSexton                                                                                  

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Website – https://www.bucksexton.com/

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In this episode of Wellness Unmasked, Dr. Nicole Saphier examines the devastating humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela through a medical and public health lens. She breaks down how political collapse has led to widespread shortages of medicine, food, and basic healthcare, putting millions of lives at risk. Dr. Saphier also discusses the health consequences of mass migration, the strain on regional healthcare systems, and why the United States and the international community play a critical role in Venezuela’s recovery. From rebuilding health infrastructure to restoring access to essential care, this episode explores what meaningful humanitarian leadership should look like—and why it matters.

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In this episode, Mary Katharine and Karol kick off the New Year with personal reflections and resolutions before diving into one of the most consequential foreign policy developments of the moment: President Trump’s bold move to apprehend Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro. They analyze the implications of Maduro’s capture, the legal questions surrounding the operation, and the explosive reaction from Venezuelans on social media.

The conversation then turns to a massive childcare fraud scandal in Minnesota, raising serious concerns about government accountability and taxpayer dollars. To close, they examine a growing shift in academia away from political activism in the classroom and the ongoing struggle of San Francisco leaders to confront rising crime. A wide-ranging, news-driven discussion to start the year.

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Welcome to 2026!

Clay and Buck break down the historic Delta Force raid that captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, comparing its complexity to the Osama bin Laden mission. They detail how elite U.S. special operations forces executed a flawless plan involving cyber warfare, blackout tactics, rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, and intelligence precision—resulting in zero American casualties. The hosts emphasize the strategic implications for the Western Hemisphere, noting ripple effects on Russia, China, Cuba, and Iran, and how this bold move reinforces President Trump’s “mess around and find out” foreign policy.

Tim Walz Steps Down

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announces he will not seek reelection following a viral investigation into massive Somali daycare fraud. A 23-year-old YouTuber exposed empty storefronts posing as childcare centers, siphoning off millions in taxpayer funds. Clay and Buck detail how this scandal could involve up to $9 billion in fraudulent payments, nearly the GDP of Somalia, and note that over 100 indictments have already been filed. They question why U.S. taxpayers fund childcare for welfare recipients, arguing the program itself invites abuse. The segment explores cultural factors behind the fraud, the political fallout for Walz, and the growing power of independent media to topple entrenched politicians.

That Didn't Age Well, Chuck

The discussion explores Maduro’s arraignment in Manhattan federal court on drug trafficking and weapons charges, the future of Venezuela post-Maduro, and contrasts Trump’s decisive action with prior Democratic administrations. Clay and Buck highlight the hypocrisy of critics like Chuck Schumer and newly elected NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who condemned the operation as “regime change,” sparking debate over international law and U.S. national security priorities.

Operation Absolute Resolve

David Rutherford (aka Rut) former Navy SEAL and host on the Clay & Buck Podcast Network. Rutherford calls the Maduro operation “one of the top five best ops ever,” detailing the complexity, flawless coordination, and elite performance of JSOC units, Delta Force, and the 160th SOAR pilots. He compares the raid’s scale and sophistication to the Osama bin Laden mission, arguing that this operation was even more impressive. Rutherford emphasizes its global implications, warning cartels and hostile regimes that America is “done playing games” and projecting power with precision. He predicts increased operational tempo against Mexican cartels and underscores how this mission reshapes global power dynamics.

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