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:

Tehran Teetering on the Edge plus Grand Jury Targets Jerome Powell Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

Section 1: Iran Regime Revolt

Protests in Iran: Anti-government demonstrations have been ongoing for over two weeks, driven by economic hardship and opposition to the regime.
Violent Crackdown: Security forces have responded with heavy repression; reports indicate deaths and brutality in the streets.
Trump Administration Response:
- President Trump publicly supports Iranian protesters, emphasizing U.S. readiness to help.
- Strong warnings issued: Iran will face “serious consequences” if it violently suppresses protests.
- Options under consideration include cyber, military, and diplomatic measures.
Iran’s Reaction: The regime is attempting to silence information by shutting down landlines and internet access.
Geopolitical Dynamics:
- Russia reportedly has aircraft ready in Tehran to evacuate Iranian leadership if the regime collapses.
- Israel may be involved in potential strikes against Iranian leadership.
Current Situation: At least one border city reportedly overthrown by protesters; risk of either major freedom gains or significant loss of life in the coming hours.

Section 2: Federal Reserve Chair Investigation

Criminal Probe: The Trump administration has opened a criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
Powell’s Statement:
- DOJ served grand jury subpoenas related to his testimony about renovations to the Fed’s headquarters.
- Powell claims the probe is politically motivated, aimed at pressuring monetary policy decisions.
- Emphasizes Fed independence and commitment to evidence-based interest rate setting.
Context:
- Trump has criticized Powell for not cutting interest rates as aggressively as desired.
- DOJ states the investigation focuses on potential misuse of taxpayer funds in renovation projects.
Media and Political Spin: Debate centers on whether this is about renovation testimony or political interference in monetary policy.

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.

A Message to the Iranian People: You can Change the World Right NOW, plus WHY it Matters so much for the Safety of Americans Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

1. Current Situation in Iran

Over one million Iranians are protesting against the regime in major cities.
The Iranian leadership has shut down the internet, phones, and media to suppress information and maintain control.
Protesters are risking their lives; acts of defiance include burning hijabs and removing religious coverings in public.

2. Historical Context

References to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the U.S. hostage crisis (444 days).
Comparison of Jimmy Carter’s weak foreign policy to Barack Obama and Joe Biden, arguing that weakness emboldens adversaries.
Contrast with Ronald Reagan’s strong stance, which led to the release of hostages and eventual Soviet collapse.

3. Iran’s Role in Global Terrorism

Iran funds over 90% of Hamas and Hezbollah budgets.
Responsible for IED attacks and the deaths of 593+ American service members in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Iran manufactures drones used by Russia in Ukraine.
Allegations that Iran plotted to assassinate Donald Trump.

4. U.S. Foreign Policy and Leadership

Strong emphasis on “Peace through Strength” as advocated by Reagan and Trump.
Trump’s recent actions (e.g., military strikes, bunker-buster bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities) portrayed as decisive.
Trump’s public message: “Iran is looking at freedom… USA stands ready to help.”

5. Why Regime Change Matters

The fall of Iran’s regime would be transformational for Middle East stability and U.S. security.
Advocates for regime change without boots on the ground, using diplomatic, economic, and informational support.
Compares potential Iranian revolution to the fall of the Berlin Wall and collapse of the Soviet Union.

6. Role of Media and Messaging

Iranian state TV is allegedly broadcasting Tucker Carlson interviews in Persian as propaganda.
Criticism of voices opposing U.S. involvement or promoting isolationism.
Emphasis on using platforms like podcasts and Starlink internet access to reach Iranians and encourage freedom.

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.

From VP Dreams to Fraud Nightmares plus Mamdani’s Team Calls Homeownership White Supremacy Jan 10, 2026

Show notes

Minnesota Politics:
- Governor Tim Walz announced he will not seek reelection amid a massive childcare and Medicaid fraud scandal allegedly involving billions of dollars.
- Walz frames his decision as prioritizing governance over campaigning, while critics claim he is leaving in disgrace due to the scandal.
- The piece mentions accusations of conspiracy theories, right-wing attacks, and Walz blaming Republicans and Donald Trump for creating division.
- It also references potential political fallout for Minnesota Democrats, including Senator Tina Smith not seeking reelection and speculation about Amy Klobuchar as a gubernatorial candidate.
New York City Politics:
- Focuses on newly elected Mayor Mamdani and controversies surrounding his policies:
  - Transit fare hikes: Subway fares increased to $3 per ride despite campaign promises of free transit.
  - Housing policy: Mamdani’s administration is criticized for ideological positions on property rights, with statements from a Tenant Advocate director suggesting a shift from private property to collective ownership, framing homeownership as linked to “white supremacy.”
- The commentary portrays these policies as socialist and warns of negative impacts on property rights, businesses, and taxes.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela looks to a New Horizon, Democrat Maduro Flip-Flop & Minnesota's very own Civil War Week In Review Jan 10, 2026

Show notes

U.S. Military Action in Venezuela and Its Aftermath
- U.S. operation in Venezuela was not a war but a short military action to arrest Nicolás Maduro, described as an indicted narco-terrorist.
- This was not intended as a regime change through force but rather a law enforcement action supported by the military.
- After Maduro’s arrest, Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s former Vice President and a staunch communist, was sworn in as interim president. The text provides extensive background on her Marxist roots, corruption allegations (including gold smuggling), and anti-American stance.
- Advocations for free and fair elections in Venezuela to replace the current regime with a pro-America, pro-market leader, highlighting Venezuela’s vast oil and gold reserves and its potential for economic recovery if corruption and communism are removed.
- There is discussion of U.S. legal precedent (e.g., Noriega case, Ker-Frisbie doctrine) supporting extraterritorial arrests and the constitutional authority of the President to order such actions, even if they conflict with international law like the UN Charter.
Minnesota Political Crisis and Somali Fraud Scandal
- The second part shifts to domestic U.S. politics, focusing on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who allegedly faces a massive fraud scandal involving Somali immigrant communities and misuse of government funds.
- The fraud is described as “the worst instance of fraud in American history,” totaling around $9 billion.
- Minnesota Democrats are guilty of corruption, vote-buying schemes, and inciting violence to distract from the scandal, even suggesting that Walz called for “war with the federal government.”
- A congressional hearing exchange is included, highlighting welfare dependency statistics among Somali immigrant households compared to native Minnesotans, painting a picture of systemic abuse and failed integration policies.

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 Tragedy of the Liberal’s Making Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

Incident Details
- ICE agents approached a woman's car during an operation.
- The woman resisted, obstructed, and then drove toward an ICE agent, prompting the agent to fire three shots.
- The ICE agent was injured but survived; the woman was killed.
Political Reactions
- Donald Trump has condemned the "radical left," accusing them of inciting violence against law enforcement.
- Governor Tim Walz urged peaceful protests but criticized ICE and federal actions for inflaming tensions.
- Mayor Jacob Frey has blamed ICE for the fatal shooting and demanded they leave Minneapolis.
- Vice President J.D. Vance has defended ICE, criticized Democrats for politicizing the event, and announced plans to investigate funding behind anti-ICE protests.
Broader Narrative
- The incident is part of a larger pattern of violence against ICE agents allegedly encouraged by left-wing activists.
- A new Assistant Attorney General role focused on investigating networks funding protests and violence against law enforcement.
- Highlights organized efforts to obstruct ICE operations, including using vehicles as weapons.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Year's Resolutions plus Minnesota Shooting, Riots & Fraud Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

1. New Year’s Resolutions

The first part of the discussion is lighthearted and personal. Both hosts share their resolutions for 2026:

Ted Cruz’s resolutions:
- Lose 30 pounds (from 236 lbs to 206 lbs) through diet and exercise.
- Complete a “Dry January” (no alcohol for the month).
- Read the Bible daily throughout the year.
Ben Ferguson’s resolutions:
- Focus on building muscle after significant weight loss (from 298 lbs to 209 lbs).
- Commit to reading the Bible daily alongside Cruz.

They also reflect on family life, parenting, and the emotional challenges of children growing up and leaving home.

2. Minnesota Shooting, Riots & Fraud

The second part shifts to a serious political discussion:

Incident in Minnesota: A woman allegedly tried to run over an ICE agent with her SUV and was fatally shot. The hosts argue that the Left is politicizing the event, portraying the woman as a victim, and using the situation to attack law enforcement.
Rhetoric and Violence: They criticize Democratic leaders for inflammatory language, claiming it encourages violence against ICE and law enforcement. Examples include:
- Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey telling ICE to “get out” of the city.
- Governor Tim Walz suggesting Minnesota is “at war” with the federal government.
Fraud Scandal: They discuss a massive Somali-related fraud in Minnesota, allegedly involving $9 billion in taxpayer funds across multiple sectors (childcare, transportation, etc.). The conversation frames this as deliberate Democratic corruption tied to immigration policies and vote-buying.
Law Enforcement Advice: Practical tips for interacting safely with police during traffic stops are shared, emphasizing respect and de-escalation.

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.

Woman Killed After Attempting to Ram ICE Officer Jan 08, 2026

Show notes

Incident Overview
- ICE agents were conducting operations in Minneapolis when a woman blocked their vehicles and refused repeated commands to exit her car.
- She allegedly accelerated toward an ICE agent, prompting the officer to fire through the windshield, resulting in her death.
- The shooting is described as defensive and necessary to prevent harm to law enforcement officers.
Context and Escalation
- The woman had been stalking and obstructing ICE agents throughout the day.
- It portrays her actions as part of a broader pattern of “political vigilanteism” and domestic terrorism, citing an increase in vehicle ramming attacks against ICE agents.
Political Commentary
- Left-wing activists and Democratic officials are encouraging lawlessness and violence against federal officers.
- Quotes from officials like Secretary of Homeland Security and political figures are included, reinforcing support for ICE and condemning anti-ICE rhetoric.
Statistics and Broader Trends
- A reported 1,300% increase in assaults and an 8,000% increase in death threats against ICE agents.
- Similar vehicle attacks have occurred nationwide, the incident is part of a growing threat.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Western Hemisphere Shake-Up: Maduro Captured, Oil Secured, Cuba on Notice Jan 07, 2026

Show notes

Venezuela’s Oil Reserves and U.S. Involvement
- Trump announced that Venezuela would transfer 30–50 million barrels of high-quality oil to the United States.
- The oil would be sold at market price, with proceeds allegedly controlled by Trump to benefit both Venezuelans and Americans.
- Venezuela reportedly has $17.3 trillion worth of oil reserves, surpassing the combined global GDP (excluding the U.S. and China).
Capture of Maduro and Regime Change
- Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured by U.S. forces.
- This event is a turning point for Venezuela, signaling the end of its socialist regime and the start of economic recovery.
Domino Effect in Latin America
- U.S. officials speculate that Maduro’s fall could trigger regime changes in Cuba and other Latin American nations.
- Cuba is a “failed state” reliant on Venezuelan oil, and its government is portrayed as vulnerable.
- There are otential uprisings in Cuba, aided by U.S. influence and familial ties with Cuban-Americans.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela Victory part 2-Historically Transforming Latin America & What Happens Next Jan 07, 2026

Show notes

Cilia Flores’ Role: Far from being a symbolic first lady, Flores is a mastermind behind corruption and drug trafficking. She was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury and linked to major criminal activities, including her nephews’ cocaine smuggling.
Western Hemisphere Strategy: The discussion emphasizes the Monroe Doctrine and its modern interpretation under Trump (“Donroe Doctrine”), asserting U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere to counter Russian, Chinese, and Iranian influence.
Military Operation: The arrest of Maduro was a highly precise Delta Force mission, compared to past U.S. interventions like Noriega’s capture in Panama. The podcast praises Trump’s decisiveness and military success without U.S. casualties.
Regional Impact:
- Cuba: Faces severe pressure due to loss of Venezuelan oil and the death of Cuban guards during the raid.
- Other Leftist Regimes: Leaders in Nicaragua, Colombia, and Brazil are considered weakened.
- Mexico: While not a failed state, concerns about narco-terrorism and water treaty disputes are highlighted.
Future of Venezuela:
- Interim President Delcy Rodríguez is described as another Marxist figure, raising concerns about continuity of corruption.
- Advocates for free and fair elections to restore stability and attract foreign investment, especially in oil and gold sectors.
- Venezuela’s vast natural resources make it a prime candidate for rapid economic recovery if governance shifts toward pro-market policies.

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.

Trump’s Plan to Rebuild Venezuela’s Broken Oil Empire plus Maduro in the Big Apple Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

Trump’s stance on Venezuela’s oil and U.S. role
- Trump is asserting the U.S. will “run” or strongly direct efforts in Venezuela, with U.S. oil companies going in to rebuild the country’s “broken” oil infrastructure. Trump is quoted saying elections should occur “at the right time” after stabilization.
- Venezuela’s oil reserves are worth trillions of dollars and recounts Trump correcting a reporter from “billion” to “trillion.”
Maduro’s arrest and New York court proceedings
- Maduro’s first court appearance in Manhattan on narco-terrorism and drug trafficking charges, noting his not guilty plea, assertion that he is a “prisoner of war,” and that he remains Venezuela’s legitimate president. It adds details about detention in Brooklyn and a next hearing set for March 17, 2026.
- Protests were outside the courthouse vs. the operation and prosecution which were legitimate actions against criminal syndicates.
U.S. counter-narcotics narrative
- The FBI Director is quoted praising Trump’s leadership, claiming agreements with Chinese officials reduced precursor chemicals for fentanyl, and citing seizure quantities (e.g., enough fentanyl to kill 175 million Americans). The director frames Venezuela as a transshipment point and argues the arrests support U.S. public safety.

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