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:

Who We Are-Dems Abandon God & the Declaration of Independence plus Cartels in every Community in America Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

Debate on the Source of Rights
- The episode opens with criticism of Democratic Senator Tim Kaine, who argued in a Senate hearing that constitutional rights come from the government rather than from God.
- Cruz frames this as a radical departure from America’s founding principles, citing the Declaration of Independence and Thomas Jefferson’s writings.
- The discussion emphasizes that if rights come from government, they can be taken away, whereas God-given rights are “unalienable.”
Religion and the Democratic Party
- Cruz and Ferguson argue that the Democratic Party is increasingly hostile toward people of faith (Christian, Jewish, Catholic).
- They highlight responses from religious leaders, including Bishop Robert Barron, who strongly opposed Kaine’s remarks and defended the idea that rights come from God.
Border Security and the Cartels
- The podcast shifts to the issue of border security and drug cartels, especially the Sinaloa cartel.
- They cite a DEA operation in New England that arrested 171 cartel members in one week, seizing fentanyl and counterfeit pills.
- Cruz and Ferguson warn about the danger of fentanyl-laced pills, especially for young people, describing it as a national epidemic and the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18–45.
U.S. Government Action Against Cartels
- They discuss U.S. military and DEA efforts to combat cartels, including operations in Mexico, Venezuela, and the Caribbean.
- Cruz praises the government’s recent designation of cartels as terrorist organizations and the deployment of military assets to fight drug trafficking.

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.

171 Cartel Members Arrested in New England Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

Public opinion on crime: The podcast highlights a poll suggesting Americans prefer Donald Trump’s approach to crime over Joe Biden’s, comparing Trump to Michael Jordan “towering” over Biden.
Criticism of Democrats: The piece accuses Democrats of siding with criminals, minimizing crime in cities, and allowing illegal immigrants and even non-citizens to vote (with an example from Maine).
Drug cartel activity: It emphasizes the reach of the Sinaloa cartel, citing DEA operations in New England that arrested 171 members, seized fentanyl and counterfeit pills, and raised alarms about the threat cartels pose nationwide.
Media bias claim: It argues that national media avoids reporting cartel activity outside border states to downplay the issue.
Youth and drugs: It warns of counterfeit pills (fentanyl, Adderall, Oxycodone look-alikes) that target young people online, stressing the DEA’s difficulty in distinguishing real from fake pills.
Partisan divide: Sources contrast Trump’s aggressive law-and-order stance with Democrats’ resistance, using Adam Schiff’s comments about crime in D.C. as an example of alleged denial.
Closing argument: The commentary concludes that Americans overwhelmingly want Trump’s law-and-order approach, portraying Democrats as obstructing crime reduction efforts.

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.

DeSantis & State Surgeon General Announce End to School Vaccine Requirements Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

Main Focus

Florida, under Governor Ron DeSantis and the state Surgeon General, announced plans to eliminate all mandatory vaccination requirements, including those for children in public schools.
This would make Florida the first U.S. state to fully withdraw vaccine mandates, representing a sharp departure from decades of public health policy.

Arguments Presented

Skepticism toward public health institutions:
- Ben argues that the CDC and medical authorities “lied” about COVID-19 measures (masks, distancing, vaccine effectiveness).
- Because of this, many Americans no longer trust these institutions.
Parental Rights vs. Government Mandates:
- Florida’s decision is framed as empowering parents to make medical choices for their children rather than allowing the federal government to dictate them.
- Supporters view this as a matter of bodily autonomy, parental choice, and medical freedom.
Criticism of the Opposition:
- Sources claim “liberals” and medical groups oppose the repeal because they want more government control.
- It portrays media outlets and health professionals as fearmongering about the risks of removing mandates.

Counterpoints & Concerns Highlighted

Medical Community Response:
- Organizations like the American Medical Association warn that removing vaccine mandates could undermine decades of progress and lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases (measles, polio, whooping cough).
- Public health experts stress the immense global and U.S. benefits of vaccines, citing millions of lives saved.
Political & Public Debate:
- Florida Democrats and doctors argue the move poses a grave public health risk.
- There is emphasis on how outbreaks could affect schools and vulnerable groups.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

#CDC #Publichealth #Florida #GovernorRonDeSantis #stateSurgeonGeneral #SurgeonGeneral #COVID-19 #vaccination #vaccine

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FAFO! U.S. Hits Venezuelan Drug Vessel in Trump’s First Major Strike Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

Trump’s Direct Involvement
- The report repeatedly emphasizes that Trump personally ordered the strike.
- He posted about it on Truth Social and addressed it publicly in the Oval Office.
- He framed it as both a security measure and a show of strength.
Symbolism and Messaging
- A video of the strike (aerial view of the boat exploding) was released, meant as a public warning.
- Officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio (in this narrative), reinforced the idea of a new, aggressive U.S. stance against cartels.
International Reactions
- Mexico’s president dismissed the U.S. action, claiming no threat to America and stressing sovereignty.
- Venezuela’s leader is described as furious, partly because of a $50 million bounty on his head.
Escalation Possibilities
- The Pentagon and CIA are reportedly preparing further strikes on drug labs and cartel strongholds.
- Commentators suggest drone strikes and broader operations could follow.
Domestic Justification
- The narrative appeals to American frustration with drug trafficking and cartel-related violence.
- Commentators claim the public would support such aggressive actions.
Risks and Counterpoints
- Sources acknowledge potential cartel retaliation inside the U.S., through asymmetric warfare.
- Despite this, it maintains that the U.S. military would overwhelm any response.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump Takes Out Venezuelan Narcoterrorists in Decisive Military Attack plus Stopping DC Crime & Trump is ALIVE! Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

1. Venezuelan Narco-Terrorist Strike

The hosts discuss a U.S. military strike ordered by former President Trump against a Venezuelan drug-smuggling boat.
They describe it as decisive action against narcoterrorists, with 11 alleged gang members killed.
The narrative frames Trump as strong and proactive compared to Biden, who they accuse of weakness on border security and cartels.

2. U.S.–Mexico Relations & Cartels

Cruz recounts recent meetings with Mexican officials, pressing them to cooperate with the U.S. against cartels.
He argues Mexican cartels should be designated as terrorist organizations, drawing comparisons to Middle Eastern terror groups.
The conversation emphasizes deterrence through unpredictable and overwhelming force.

3. Domestic Crime in Washington, D.C.

Cruz introduces the Clean DC Act, aiming to repeal a 2022 D.C. law that reduced penalties for violent crimes.
The podcast presents crime statistics in D.C. (murder rates, carjackings, assaults) and blames Democratic leadership for rising violence.
It positions Trump’s stance on law and order as both domestic and international.

4. “Trump Is Alive” Segment

Responds to a viral social media rumor that Trump had died after a couple of days out of the public eye.
Hosts ridicule Democrats and media figures who speculated about or even welcomed the rumor.
Trump himself dismisses it in an interview, calling it fake news.

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.

Cartels Look OUT! Trump sends Military to Southern Caribbean & Venezuela Waters Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

U.S. Military Deployment: The U.S. Navy has increased its presence in the Southern Caribbean with 7–8 warships (including cruisers, amphibious assault ships, and a nuclear submarine), along with 4,000+ personnel and surveillance aircraft. The mission is presented as a crackdown on drug cartels.
Targeting Maduro: The U.S. government labels Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro a “narco-trafficker” and has raised the bounty for his capture to $50 million. His government is described as a “narco-state” producing large amounts of cocaine.
Maduro’s Response: Maduro has mobilized troops, armed citizens, and accused the U.S. of using anti-drug rhetoric as a cover for regime change and “gunboat diplomacy.” He warns of a “constitutional republic in arms” if attacked.
Public Reactions:
- Some Venezuelans, especially opposition members, express cautious optimism and even “silent euphoria” at U.S. pressure, though fear retaliation at home.
- Venezuelans abroad are more openly celebratory, praising Trump as a strong ally for democracy and regime change.
Wider Context:
- The administration seeks to redefine drug cartels as terrorist organizations, allowing broader military and intelligence operations against them.
- Commentary contrasts Trump’s proactive measures with Biden’s presidency, citing fentanyl deaths and cartel-related violence as urgent crises.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

#Maduro #PresidentMaduro #Venezuela #Cartels #USMilitary #PresidentNicolásMaduro #DonaldTrump #warondrugs

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comer Labors going after DC Crime Stats & Autopen Investigation Ramps UP Sep 01, 2025

Show notes

Crime Data Manipulation in Washington, D.C.
- The piece alleges that the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department intentionally manipulated crime statistics to make the city appear safer than it actually is.
- A whistleblower reportedly informed the House Oversight Committee that crime reports were downgraded (e.g., stabbings and carjackings reclassified as lesser offenses).
- Representative James Comer (House Oversight Committee Chair) is leading the investigation.
- The Justice Department is said to be conducting its own criminal inquiry.
- The narrative ties this issue to claims that Democrats are downplaying crime while Republicans, alongside former President Trump, aim to take tougher measures.
Political Framing of Crime and Law Enforcement
- Comer argues Democrats and “liberal media” are misleading the public by claiming crime is down, despite everyday experiences suggesting otherwise.
- He emphasizes a Republican agenda focused on “law and order,” contrasting it with Democrats’ alleged leniency (bail reform, light sentencing, etc.).
- The Oversight Committee plans to pursue legislation in coordination with Trump and the White House to combat crime.
Biden “Autopen” Investigation
- The second half shifts focus to a separate probe into President Joe Biden’s alleged use of an autopen (a device that signs documents automatically).
- Comer and House Republicans are investigating whether Biden personally approved key documents like pardons and executive orders.
- Witness testimony suggested limited direct interaction with Biden, raising questions about his mental fitness and who was making executive decisions.
- Several aides invoked the Fifth Amendment when questioned, fueling suspicions of a cover-up.
- Comer claims this raises constitutional concerns about presidential authority in Biden’s final months.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Road in Mexico Urging the Mexican Government to get Serious about Defeating Cartels plus Dems Bemoan Trump's Fighting Violent Crime Sep 01, 2025

Show notes

1. Trip Recap & Foreign Relations

El Salvador:
Cruz praises President Nayib Bukele for drastically reducing homicide rates by aggressively targeting gangs like MS-13 and 18th Street. He contrasts El Salvador’s success with U.S. crime and immigration challenges.
Panama:
He toured the Panama Canal and highlighted U.S. concerns about China’s growing influence there, including ports, bridges, and tunnels near the canal. Cruz warns that China could disrupt canal traffic in a future conflict, threatening U.S. national and economic security.
Mexico:
Cruz met with senior Mexican officials (Foreign Secretary, Defense Secretary, Agriculture Secretary). He urged cooperation on border security and dismantling drug cartels, stressing Trump’s policies and a reported 99% drop in illegal border crossings.
- Mexican leaders, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, rejected U.S. military involvement, citing “sovereignty.”
- Cruz compared Mexico’s stance to El Salvador’s crackdown and Colombia’s Plan Colombia (early 2000s), arguing that success requires political will.
- He warned that if Mexico refuses, the U.S. may still act militarily against cartels under Trump’s leadership.

2. Domestic Politics & Crime

Cruz and Ferguson shift focus to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, criticizing him for downplaying crime in Chicago.
Cruz cites statistics on Chicago’s murder rate (highest in the U.S. for 13 consecutive years) and argues Democrats prioritize criminals over victims.
He frames Democrat policies in Illinois, California, and nationally as failures comparable to Mexico’s refusal to confront cartels.

3. Broader Political Commentary

Cruz claims Democrats have become the “party of criminals,” siding with offenders over law-abiding citizens.
He notes polling showing Americans are highly concerned about crime in cities.
Discussion touches on 2025 midterm elections:
- Republicans may benefit from Democrat extremism.
- But Cruz worries about a GOP “enthusiasm gap,” citing a special election loss in Iowa.
- He stresses the need for Republican voter turnout despite Trump’s early policy “successes.”

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.

Cracker Barrel’s $100M Disaster, GOP Probes Alleged DC Crime Cover-Up & Biden Packed Swing States Aug 30, 2025

Show notes

1. Corporate “Woke” Branding Backlash

The first section criticizes Cracker Barrel’s rebranding efforts under a new CEO in 2023.
The piece compares the situation to Bud Light’s controversial marketing campaign.
It claims that Cracker Barrel alienated its customer base by modernizing its logo, decor, and brand identity, resulting in financial losses and backlash.
It highlights Donald Trump’s criticism of the company and suggests his comments influenced Cracker Barrel’s decision to revert to its original branding.

2. Washington, D.C. Crime Data Controversy

The next section shifts to politics, focusing on allegations that D.C. officials manipulated crime statistics to make crime appear lower.
It mentions House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer launching an investigation, supported by whistleblower claims.
The commentary argues that this manipulation was politically motivated, while framing Donald Trump as taking a strong stance on public safety.

3. Immigration and Electoral Strategy

The final section accuses the Biden administration of deliberately increasing the population of undocumented immigrants in swing states between 2021 and 2023.
It cites Pew Research Center estimates and claims the motive was to influence redistricting and long-term election outcomes.
The commentary positions Trump as fighting against these policies to secure the border and protect U.S. elections.

X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump DEI Spending Win, Cracker Barrel Pulls the Plug on Rebrand & Panama Canal at Risk by Far Reaching China Week In Review Aug 30, 2025

Show notes

Supreme Court Ruling on DEI Grants
- The Supreme Court ruled 5–4 in favor of the Trump administration, allowing it to terminate $783 million in NIH diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related grants.
- The decision centered on jurisdiction — the Court found that lawsuits over federal contracts must be filed in the Court of Federal Claims, not in district court.
- Justice Amy Coney Barrett cast the swing vote: siding with conservatives to block the payouts but with liberals on preventing reinstatement of the DEI guidance policy.
- Conservatives framed this as a victory against what they see as “ideological” grants, while critics warned of reduced research support.
Corporate “Woke” Backlash — Cracker Barrel Example
- Discussion shifted to Cracker Barrel’s rebranding effort that downplayed its nostalgic Americana imagery.
- The company faced backlash, similar to Bud Light and Target controversies, leading to stock declines.
- After pressure from customers, investors, and even Donald Trump’s public comments, Cracker Barrel reversed course and reinstated its traditional branding.
- This was framed as an example of market-driven resistance to corporate progressivism.
Senator’s Latin America Trip (El Salvador & Panama)
- The speaker described travels to El Salvador, highlighting improved safety under President Nayib Bukele. This led to “reverse migration,” with Salvadorans abroad expressing interest in returning.
- In Panama, focus was on the Panama Canal’s strategic importance and concerns about Chinese control over ports, infrastructure projects, and canal-adjacent facilities.
- The senator warned that in the event of a U.S.–China conflict, Chinese influence in Panama could threaten U.S. economic and military logistics.
- He urged Panamanian officials to push out Chinese companies and secure the canal with U.S.-aligned interests.