The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

Copyright: 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia

Latest Episodes:

Iran’s Elites Move Millions as Panic sets In plus DOJ investigate Walz and Frey Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

1. Iran, U.S. Sanctions, and Regime Pressure

Iran’s leadership blames the United States for internal economic hardship, citing sanctions as “inhumane” and portraying opposition to the Supreme Leader as an act of war.
The commentary frames this messaging as state propaganda meant to deflect blame from Iran’s regime and suppress domestic protests.
The U.S., under President Trump, is described as escalating a “maximum pressure” sanctions campaign, with a specific focus on:
- Targeting Iran’s oil revenue and shadow shipping fleet
- Sanctioning networks allegedly smuggling Iranian oil disguised as Iraqi exports
- Tracking and freezing Iranian leadership’s assets, including money moved abroad
The piece claims sanctions are successfully weakening Iran’s economy, causing regime insiders to move money out of the country and increasing internal instability.
Overall framing: U.S. economic pressure is portrayed as effective, justified, and supportive of the Iranian people, while Iran’s leadership is depicted as collapsing and desperate.

2. Minnesota, ICE, and Domestic Political Conflict

The second half shifts to U.S. domestic politics, focusing on Minnesota state and Minneapolis city leadership.
Claims that the Department of Justice is investigating the Minnesota governor and Minneapolis mayor for:
- Obstruction of federal law enforcement
- Misuse of taxpayer funds, with allegations that money ultimately reached foreign terrorist organizations
The commentary contrasts current DOJ investigations with past cases involving Democrats, arguing this is legitimate law enforcement, not political intimidation.
Strong criticism of Democratic officials for:
- Condemning or obstructing ICE operations
- Using inflammatory language toward ICE agents
- Supporting or encouraging the idea of abolishing or defunding ICE
Violent clashes involving ICE agents in Minneapolis are cited to argue that:
- Local leaders are enabling lawlessness
- ICE arrests are targeting serious criminals, including violent offenders
Overall framing: Federal enforcement is restoring “law and order,” while Democratic officials are portrayed as reckless, radical, and hostile to public safety.

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.

Iran Revolution-Why this is Different...Trump is not Obama Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

1. Role of Popular Uprising

Millions of Iranians are described as actively protesting against the ruling clerical regime.
The movement is portrayed as organic, domestic, and secular, not Islamist or anti‑Western.
Economic collapse is identified as the primary catalyst rather than a single political trigger.
Protesters are framed as the legitimate engine of change, with the U.S. positioned as a supporter rather than the instigator.

2. Economic Collapse as a Destabilizer

Hyperinflation and currency collapse (rial exceeding 1,000,000 to the dollar) have crippled daily life.
Bazaar closures, labor strikes (notably in energy), and widespread shortages are presented as systemic stressors.
Low global oil prices weaken Iran’s primary revenue source, limiting the regime’s ability to fund repression and foreign proxies.

3. U.S. Policy Contrast: Trump vs. Obama/Biden

There is a sharp contrast between:
- Obama/Biden: Characterized as conciliatory, passive, and supportive of engagement (e.g., Iran nuclear deal).
- Trump: Portrayed as deterrence‑focused, confrontational, and openly supportive of regime change.
Trump’s public endorsement of a “new government” in Iran is framed as unprecedented and strategically consequential.

4. Deterrence Without Occupation

We reject a large‑scale military invasion.
Instead, we support:
- Targeted military strikes (e.g., nuclear facilities, IRGC leadership)
- Covert operations
- Clear deterrent threats against mass repression
The killing of Qasem Soleimani is highlighted as a key inflection point that shattered regime confidence.

5. Iran’s Strategic Weakness

Iran’s air defenses and regional influence are described as severely degraded.
Hezbollah, Hamas, and other proxies have been decapitated or weakened.
The regime is increasingly isolated as allies (Venezuela, Syria, Russia) face their own crises.

6. Internal Regime Fractures

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is portrayed as a potential kingmaker or coup actor.
The text suggests the IRGC:
- Controls vast economic assets
- Is deeply unpopular with the public
- May abandon the clerical leadership to preserve its own power
A coup becomes likely if U.S. pressure and labor strikes converge.

7. Information Control and Fear

Internet shutdowns and communication blackouts are signs of regime panic.
Supreme Leader Khamenei fears internal reform more than outright confrontation, drawing parallels to Soviet collapse.

9. Broader Geopolitical Context

Iran’s situation is linked to potential domino effects in Venezuela and Cuba.
Energy independence and low oil prices are framed as key U.S. national security tools.
The moment is compared to the fall of the Berlin Wall, suggesting a possible systemic collapse of authoritarian regimes without U.S. ground wars.

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/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DOJ Launches Criminal Probe into Fed Chair plus Paid Pro Agitators Target ICE Nationwide Jan 17, 2026

Show notes

1. Criminal Probe Into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell

The document’s primary focus is on President Trump’s administration opening a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
The probe involves grand jury subpoenas related to Powell’s testimony before Congress about renovations to the Federal Reserve’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Powell publicly addressed the issue in an unusual prerecorded video, emphasizing that:
- He respects the rule of law.
- He believes the investigation is politically motivated rather than based on wrongdoing.
- He views the investigation as retaliation for the Fed’s interest rate decisions, which he says were made based on economic evidence rather than presidential pressure.

Concerns About Federal Reserve Independence

Powell frames the investigation as a threat to the independence of U.S. monetary policy.
He argues the action raises a fundamental question:
- Whether interest rates will continue to be set by economic data and expertise
- Or be influenced by political intimidation and pressure
The media narrative highlighted in the transcript emphasizes historic and unprecedented pressure on the Federal Reserve from the executive branch.

2. ICE Protests and Domestic Unrest

President Trump says:
- Protesters are “professional agitators”
- They may be financially backed by left‑wing groups
Federal officials, including DHS leadership, describe:
- Protest activity as approaching or constituting domestic terrorism
- The use of vehicles as weapons against law enforcement

Federal Escalation

DHS is reportedly deploying up to 1,000 additional federal agents to Minnesota.
Federal authorities state they will not retreat, regardless of local political opposition.
There is a clear standoff between federal enforcement and local leadership, with immigration enforcement at the center.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regime Change Isn’t a Dirty Word, a Meeting with Machado & the Soldiers Who Changed a Hemisphere Week In Review Jan 17, 2026

Show notes

1. Support for Regime Change Without “Boots on the Ground”

Regime change can be morally and strategically justified when it leads to the fall of tyrannical or hostile regimes (e.g., Soviet Union, Iran).
Strongly distinguishes between:
- Non-military or indirect regime change (diplomatic pressure, moral support, rhetoric, economic pressure)
- Full-scale military invasions, which the speaker opposes based on lessons from Iraq and Libya.
Frames “regime change” as a concept unfairly discredited due to past U.S. military failures.

2. Historical Analogy: Reagan and the Cold War

Ronald Reagan is a model:
- “Peace through strength,” rebuilding the military without large-scale invasions.
- Moral clarity and public rhetoric (e.g., “evil empire,” “tear down this wall”) are catalysts for systemic collapse.
The power of words and leadership signaling can inspire dissidents inside authoritarian regimes.

3. Iran as an Active Enemy of the United States

Iran is fundamentally different from prior dictatorships:
- Actively funds terrorism targeting Americans
- Governed by a theocratic regime portrayed as irredeemable
Open U.S. rhetorical and moral support for Iranian protesters and dissidents.
Acknowledges uncertainty and risks following a revolution but argues the status quo is worse.

4. Venezuela: Engagement With María Corina Machado

A bipartisan Senate meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado following her meeting with President Trump.
Highlights her strategic emphasis on:
- U.S. unity
- Avoiding partisan attacks on Trump
She is an effective, pragmatic opposition leader acting in Venezuela’s national interest.
Strong ties between U.S. senators and Venezuelan communities, especially in Florida and Texas.

5. Trump’s Role in Global Opposition Movements

Donald Trump’s leadership and rhetoric is a motivating force behind opposition movements in:
- Iran
- Venezuela
- Cuba
These three countries are simultaneously nearing potential regime collapse or elections.
Claims this could represent the most significant geopolitical shift since the fall of the Berlin Wall, while acknowledging high risks.

6. Military Operation Against Maduro (U.S. Arrest)

A recent military raid targeting Nicolás Maduro:
- Maduro described as being protected by Cuban military forces
- Operation allegedly resulted in:
  - No American fatalities
  - Multiple enemy combatant deaths
The Senator visited three wounded U.S. soldiers recovering in San Antonio.
Emphasizing:
- Their bravery
- Their role in “changing the Western Hemisphere”
- Symbolic gestures (retrieving bullets/shrapnel as mementos)

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz

X: https://x.com/tedcruz

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Berlin Wall Moment: Iranians Defy Regime, Demand Freedom plus ICE Under New Attacks Jan 16, 2026

Show notes

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

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inside the Room with the Heroic Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid & with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado Jan 16, 2026

Show notes

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.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz

X: https://x.com/tedcruz

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran Threatens Trump w Assassination plus Doctor can't answer 'Can Men Get Pregnant?' Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

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.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fight to Keep Men Out of Women’s Sports plus State Department’s Warning in Iran ‘Get Out Now!' Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

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.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary Coach Bruce Pearl One-on-One: Hoops, NIL & Anti-Semitism in America Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

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.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz

X: https://x.com/tedcruz

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iranians Protest & Die for Freedom plus Trump Targets Funding Behind Anti-ICE Chaos Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

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.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected