The Ben Ferguson Podcast

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Deadliest U.S.–Cuba Flashpoint in Decades plus Oz & Vance on MN's Outrageous Medicaid Scam Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

1. Cuba Coast Guard Incident

A US‑registered speedboat was fired upon by Cuban authorities, resulting in 4 deaths and 6 injuries.
Cuba claims:
- The boat’s occupants fired first.
- Passengers (Cuban nationals living in the US) carried assault rifles, handguns, body armor, etc.
- The group was attempting armed infiltration with terrorist intent.
The US position:
- Nothing is verified yet; US agencies are investigating.
- Officials (Rubio, Vance, DHS, Coast Guard) are demanding access to survivors.
- No indication the operation had any US government involvement.
The event raises fears of a major diplomatic flashpoint, given:
- Historical tension (e.g., 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown).
- Current hardline US posture toward Cuba.

2. Minnesota Medicaid Fraud Crackdown

The Trump administration has paused $259.5 million in Medicaid reimbursements to Minnesota over large‑scale fraud concerns.
Fraud schemes allegedly include:
- Paying mothers $1,000 to falsely diagnose children with autism to bill Medicaid.
- A provider billing for 450 days of work exceeding 24 hours/day.
- Centers billing for beneficiaries who were already deceased.
VP JD Vance and CMS Director Dr. Oz emphasize:
- The fraud involves home and community‑based services that are hard to audit.
- Minnesota must submit a corrective action plan or risk losing up to $1 billion in funds.
- Providers have already been paid by Minnesota; the federal government is withholding reimbursement from the state, not from citizens.

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Inside Trump's SOTU Speech for America Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

Economic Policy & Affordability

"Roaring" Economy: Trump insisted the U.S. is experiencing an "economic boom," citing a rising stock market and job growth despite public polls showing continued voter anxiety over the cost of living.
Retirement Savings Proposal: Announced a major new plan to provide workers who lack employer-sponsored 401(k)s with access to a plan similar to the federal Thrift Savings Plan, including a government match of up to $1,000 annually.
Tariff Defiance: Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down his primary tariff authority, Trump called the decision "totally wrong" and pledged to implement "even stronger" alternative import duties.
Tech Industry Power: Proposed a "Rate Payer Protection Pledge" requiring major tech companies and AI data centers to build their own power plants to avoid driving up local electricity costs.

Immigration & National Security

Enforcement Triumphs: Highlighted a massive drop in illegal border crossings, claiming arrests had hit their lowest levels since the 1960s due to his administration's strict policies.
DHS Funding Clashes: Blamed Democrats for a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, demanding they restore funding to the agency.
Proposed "Delilah Law": Urged Congress to pass legislation that would ban commercial licenses for immigrants without legal status.
Iran Warning: Stated that while diplomacy continues, he would not hesitate to use military force to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Governance & Election Integrity

Anti-Corruption Measures: Called for the passage of the "Stop Insider Trading Act" to ban members of Congress and their spouses from trading stocks.
SAVE America Act: Pushed for new federal requirements for proof of citizenship to vote, framing it as essential for election integrity ahead of the midterms.
"America 250": Invoked the upcoming 250th anniversary of U.S. independence this July 4th as a symbol of national "triumph and freedom".

Democratic Response Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger delivered the official Democratic response, accusing the President of lying about the economy's health and blasting his immigration tactics as "unaccountable" and "violent".

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Democrats Chant KKK while the GOP & America Chant USA Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

Economic Policy & Affordability

"Roaring" Economy: Trump insisted the U.S. is experiencing an "economic boom," citing a rising stock market and job growth despite public polls showing continued voter anxiety over the cost of living.
Retirement Savings Proposal: Announced a major new plan to provide workers who lack employer-sponsored 401(k)s with access to a plan similar to the federal Thrift Savings Plan, including a government match of up to $1,000 annually.
Tariff Defiance: Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down his primary tariff authority, Trump called the decision "totally wrong" and pledged to implement "even stronger" alternative import duties.
Tech Industry Power: Proposed a "Rate Payer Protection Pledge" requiring major tech companies and AI data centers to build their own power plants to avoid driving up local electricity costs.

Immigration & National Security

Enforcement Triumphs: Highlighted a massive drop in illegal border crossings, claiming arrests had hit their lowest levels since the 1960s due to his administration's strict policies.
DHS Funding Clashes: Blamed Democrats for a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, demanding they restore funding to the agency.
Proposed "Delilah Law": Urged Congress to pass legislation that would ban commercial licenses for immigrants without legal status.
Iran Warning: Stated that while diplomacy continues, he would not hesitate to use military force to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Governance & Election Integrity

Anti-Corruption Measures: Called for the passage of the "Stop Insider Trading Act" to ban members of Congress and their spouses from trading stocks.
SAVE America Act: Pushed for new federal requirements for proof of citizenship to vote, framing it as essential for election integrity ahead of the midterms.
"America 250": Invoked the upcoming 250th anniversary of U.S. independence this July 4th as a symbol of national "triumph and freedom".

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State of the Union Extravaganza Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

Economic Policy & Affordability

"Roaring" Economy: Trump insisted the U.S. is experiencing an "economic boom," citing a rising stock market and job growth despite public polls showing continued voter anxiety over the cost of living.
Retirement Savings Proposal: Announced a major new plan to provide workers who lack employer-sponsored 401(k)s with access to a plan similar to the federal Thrift Savings Plan, including a government match of up to $1,000 annually.
Tariff Defiance: Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down his primary tariff authority, Trump called the decision "totally wrong" and pledged to implement "even stronger" alternative import duties.
Tech Industry Power: Proposed a "Rate Payer Protection Pledge" requiring major tech companies and AI data centers to build their own power plants to avoid driving up local electricity costs.

Immigration & National Security

Enforcement Triumphs: Highlighted a massive drop in illegal border crossings, claiming arrests had hit their lowest levels since the 1960s due to his administration's strict policies.
DHS Funding Clashes: Blamed Democrats for a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, demanding they restore funding to the agency.
Proposed "Delilah Law": Urged Congress to pass legislation that would ban commercial licenses for immigrants without legal status.
Iran Warning: Stated that while diplomacy continues, he would not hesitate to use military force to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Governance & Election Integrity

Anti-Corruption Measures: Called for the passage of the "Stop Insider Trading Act" to ban members of Congress and their spouses from trading stocks.
SAVE America Act: Pushed for new federal requirements for proof of citizenship to vote, framing it as essential for election integrity ahead of the midterms.
"America 250": Invoked the upcoming 250th anniversary of U.S. independence this July 4th as a symbol of national "triumph and freedom".

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Inside Trump’s Biggest Night SOTU 2026 plus Racism or ‘Just being Gavin Newsom’ Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

1. State of the Union Preview – Focus on Donald Trump

Trump is preparing for a critical State of the Union address, which he sees as essential to setting the tone for his second term.
He plans to highlight:
- Economic “successes” (tariffs, jobs, inflation control).
- Immigration enforcement and crime reduction.
- Foreign policy stances involving Iran, Israel, Russia, and Ukraine.
- His administration’s actions such as “no tax on tips/overtime.”
He will also contrast his achievements with Democratic opposition and warn that Democratic control of Congress could stop his agenda.

2. Tension Within the Democratic Party

Democrats are deeply divided, shown by multiple planned responses to the State of the Union.
Some Democratic lawmakers may boycott the speech.
The narrator emphasizes Democratic “fracturing” and internal conflict.

3. Media Coverage and Claims of Bias

The narrative strongly suggests that mainstream media protects Democrats and unfairly targets Republicans.
Complaints include lack of coverage of certain Trump events and insufficient scrutiny of Democratic controversies.

4. Gavin Newsom Controversy

The narrator accuses California Governor Gavin Newsom of using racially insensitive language when speaking to a Black audience.
Claims:
- Newsom referenced his SAT score and inability to read speeches, implying a comparison with the audience.
- When speaking to white audiences, he presented himself differently.
The narrator argues there’s a double standard: media would treat a Republican more harshly for similar comments.

5. Minnesota “Feeding Our Future” Fraud Scandal

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison helped Somali individuals tied to a massive fraud involving taxpayer money.
Senator Josh Hawley is cited aggressively confronting Ellison.
The narrator frames this as corruption and claims Ellison should be indicted.

6. SAVE Act & Voter ID Debate

Senator Chuck Schumer opposes the SAVE Act, which requires voter ID for federal elections.
- Opponents of voter ID are perpetuating a racist assumption that minorities cannot obtain IDs.
- Democrats support ID for purchasing firearms but not for voting.
- Claims that states Kamala Harris won generally lack voter ID laws.

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A Preview of President Trump’s Biggest Speech Yet—SOTU 2026 Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

1. Recent Meetings & Political Context

Ben has been in Washington, D.C., meeting with the Treasury Secretary, appearing on Fox News Sunday, and meeting Speaker Mike Johnson ahead of the upcoming State of the Union address.
These meetings emphasized what they consider President Trump’s accomplishments, such as tariffs, economic gains, and prioritizing American jobs.

2. Importance of Trump’s Upcoming State of the Union

Trump aims to sell voters on his first year back in office, highlighting economic and immigration actions.
The speech is viewed as crucial for setting the stage for his next four years and midterm election momentum.

3. Challenges Facing Trump

Recent polls showing low approval ratings.
The Supreme Court striking down his tariff policy, though Trump reportedly has a workaround.
Concerns that if Democrats win back either chamber, his second-term agenda could be paralyzed.

4. Tensions Within the Democratic Party

Significant internal division over:
- Who should respond to Trump’s speech.
- The direction of their policy messaging.
Some Democrats plan to boycott the speech; others push for a coordinated walkout.
Multiple separate Democratic responses highlight fractured internal unity.

5. Expected Themes in Trump’s Speech

Economy: Claiming reduced inflation, economic revival, and new policies like no tax on tips or overtime.
Immigration & Crime: Border security, crackdowns on criminal activity, lowering crime in major cities.
Foreign Policy: Rising tensions with Iran, U.S. military buildup, Middle East issues, Ukraine/Russia, and wars he says he has ended.
Angel Families: Honoring families of Americans killed by undocumented immigrants.

6. Media & Public Perception

The White House event with Angel Families received little coverage from mainstream networks, which is criticized in the text.
Trump dismisses negative media polls as “fake.”

7. High Stakes of the Midterms

The speech will stress that a Democratic-controlled Congress could:
- End Trump’s legislative agenda.
- Lead to new investigations.
- Potentially result in a third impeachment.

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CJNG Erupts After Notorious Cartel Boss Falls plus Mamdani’s Socialist Rent Control Push raises Red Flags in NY Feb 23, 2026

Show notes

1. Mexico Cartel Leader “El Mencho” Killed – Major Violence Erupts

Mexico confirmed the death of El Mencho, leader of the CJNG cartel, during a military operation.
In retaliation, cartel gunmen launched coordinated attacks across multiple states:
- Roadblocks and carjackings
- Buildings, stores, and gas stations set on fire
- Airports attacked, with civilians fleeing on the tarmac
U.S. Embassy issued shelter‑in‑place warnings for several regions.
Operation was reportedly supported by U.S. Navy SEALs, who trained elite Mexican forces prior to the raid.
CJNG had previously been largely untouched due to corruption in Mexico’s government.
Following the killing, violence and instability surged, with concerns about further escalation.

2. Security Incident at Mar‑a‑Lago – Armed Intruder Killed

A 21‑year‑old armed man (Austin Tucker Martin) breached Mar‑a‑Lago’s perimeter around 1:30 AM.
He carried a shotgun and gasoline can.
Secret Service and Palm Beach deputies ordered him to drop the weapon; he raised the gun instead.
Officers opened fire and killed him.
Trump was not on the property at the time.
FBI is investigating; no confirmed motive yet.
Suspect may have entered by “piggybacking” behind an authorized vehicle.

3. Overview of Recent Assassination Attempts Against Donald Trump

July 13, 2024 – Butler, PA:
- Trump shot in the ear at a rally; one attendee killed.
- Shooter fired from a rooftop; was killed by law enforcement.
September 2024 – Florida golf course:
- Another armed suspect spotted near Trump; threat neutralized before shots were fired.
Additional incidents include:
- Individuals arrested with weapons en route to Trump events
- Online threats
- Attempts to breach security perimeters
Overall trend: major surge in threats and attempted attacks, increasing protective measures.

4. New York City Mayor Mamdani – Rent Control Expansion

New NYC Mayor Mamdani is pushing aggressive rent control policies (“Rent Control 2.0”).
Plan includes:
- Citywide rent caps
- Restrictions on increases
- New penalties for landlords
Critics argue:
- Rent control reduces supply, discourages construction, and worsens housing shortages.
- Maintenance declines when landlords cannot cover costs.
- Private investment and development retreat, leading to deteriorating housing stock.
- Long‑term effects could include:
  - Higher crime
  - Lower property values
  - Fewer construction jobs
  - Vacant or poorly maintained buildings
Rent control historically creates housing shortages rather than affordability.

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Another Assissination Attempt on POTUS? plus Mexico on Fire as Cartels Throw a National Tantrum After El Mencho Falls Feb 23, 2026

Show notes

1. Mar‑a‑Lago Armed Intrusion Incident

Separately, an armed 21‑year‑old man (Austin Tucker Martin) from North Carolina entered the Mar‑a‑Lago perimeter.
He carried a shotgun and a gasoline canister.
After raising the shotgun toward agents, he was shot and killed by Secret Service and local law enforcement.
Trump and the First Lady were not present.
The FBI is leading the investigation; the motive remains unknown.

2. Death of CJNG Cartel Leader “El Mencho”

Mexico confirmed the death of El Mencho, described as the most powerful cartel boss in the country.
His death occurred during a military operation aimed at capturing him, which escalated into a firefight.

3. Widespread Cartel Retaliation Across Mexico

Following his death, CJNG gunmen launched coordinated attacks in multiple states, including:
- Roadblocks
- Carjackings
- Shootings of civilians
- Arson targeting stores, gas stations, and buildings
- Attacks at airports such as in Guadalajara
Several regions were brought to a standstill.

4. U.S. Involvement in Pre‑Operation Training

Reports claim U.S. Navy SEALs provided specialized training to elite Mexican military units shortly before the operation.
Mexico had approved U.S. Special Forces presence for joint training.
Communication devices of Mexican units were confiscated to prevent leaks due to corruption risks.
Operation was based on both Mexican and U.S. intelligence tracking Elmentcho.
Intended as a capture mission, but resistance from cartel gunmen led to lethal force being used.

5. U.S. Warnings to American Citizens

The U.S. Embassy issued shelter‑in‑place orders and travel warnings due to escalating violence.
The U.S. State Department continues to warn travelers about significant dangers in impacted areas.

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Mexican Cartel Chaos, SCOTUS Tariff Decision & Olympic Gold Feb 23, 2026

Show notes

1. Major Mexican Cartel Leader Killed CHECK OUT the STORY

Mexican forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho”), leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
His death triggered violent retaliation across multiple Mexican states, including burning vehicles, airport panic, suspended public transportation, and regional shutdowns.
The U.S. issued shelter‑in‑place warnings for American travelers in affected areas.
Violence may increasingly target American tourists, especially during spring break.
Commentary emphasizes Mexico’s struggle with cartel control and the U.S. pushing Mexico to take stronger action.

2. U.S.–Mexico Relations and Trump Administration Pressure CHECK OUT the STORY

Mexico’s action was a response to pressure from President Trump, who warned of U.S. strikes on cartel targets.
Broader theme: Trump administration aims to deter cartels, reduce drug trafficking, human smuggling, and violent crime.
Noted drops in national murder rates (~20%) and drug overdose deaths (~20%), attributed to tougher border and anti‑cartel policies.
Commentary mocks media for ignoring or downplaying these improvements.

3. Advice for Americans in Mexico

For those currently in Mexico, the guidance is:
- Check State Department travel advisories.
- Follow regional safety updates closely.
- Contact U.S. government resources if in danger.
Hosts recommend being extremely cautious about spring break travel during escalating cartel unrest.

4. Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Tariff Approach

Supreme Court decision ruled that one specific statute (IEEPA) does not authorize the tariff method Trump used.
Majority opinion written by Chief Justice John Roberts; the prediction on the podcast had expected the opposite outcome.
However, the ruling does not prevent Trump from imposing tariffs — it simply means he must rely on other statutes.
The conversation outlines multiple other laws Trump can still use:
- Trade Act of 1974 (Sections 122, 301)
- Smoot-Hawley (Section 338)
- Trade Expansion Act (Section 232)
- Trade Act Safeguards (Section 201)
Expectation: tariffs will continue, though implemented via different legal pathways.

4. Political Reaction to the Tariff Ruling

China and U.S. Democrats were reportedly celebrating the ruling.
Democrats oppose tariffs mainly to politically hurt Trump, not on principle.
Expect ongoing litigation from companies seeking refunds from past tariffs—potentially costing billions.

6. Upcoming State of the Union

Suggestion that Trump should focus the State of the Union on:
- Lower crime rates
- Lower drug overdose deaths
- “America First” accomplishments
Acknowledged cartel takedowns but also keeping the focus on domestic well-being.

7. Olympic Highlights — USA Beats Canada in Men’s Hockey

"We got GREAT Dentists" WATCH Hughes video HERE

Big national pride moment: USA wins gold in men’s hockey against Canada in overtime.
Follows U.S. women also beating Canada in the finals.
Jack Hughes (NHL player, Team USA) celebrated passionately about playing for the country.

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New Analysis Exposes Visa Pipeline from World’s Most Corrupt Nations plus U.S. Sends a Message to Iran ‘We’re Not Blinking Feb 22, 2026

Show notes

1. Immigration & Corruption Concerns

Donald Trump warned for years about insecure borders.
A Center for Immigration Studies analysis is cited, claiming the U.S. previously admitted migrants from highly corrupt countries where vetting documents are considered unreliable.
Countries listed include South Sudan, Somalia, Venezuela, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Afghanistan, and others.
Contrasting Trump’s immigration restrictions with what they describe as Biden’s more lenient approach to visa issuance.

2. Criticism of Democratic Leaders

Hillary Clinton is quoted acknowledging immigration has become “disruptive,” but she also criticizes the Trump administration.
Barack Obama and Gavin Newsom are accused of blaming federal agents and the Trump administration for border issues.
The commentary frames Democrats as both recognizing the crisis and attacking those enforcing policies.

3. Kansas Veto on Bathroom Bill

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed a bill requiring restroom use by biological sex in government buildings and schools.
Republican legislators argue the veto goes against the will of the majority and harms women’s safety.
The veto may be overridden since the bill originally passed with a supermajority.
The bill also includes limits on gender marker changes for state IDs and birth certificates.
The commentary repeatedly claims Democrats support “radical gender ideology” and harm children by opposing restrictions on gender‑affirming care.

4. Broader Criticism of Gender Policies

Strong condemnation of gender‑affirming care for minors, calling it “mutilation.”
NPR coverage is criticized as biased for describing services as “healthcare.”
The broader argument: Democrats ignore public opinion and push LGBTQ+ policies at the expense of safety and common sense.

5. Escalating U.S.–Iran Tensions

Iran conducts naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz as nuclear talks approach.
The U.S. sends additional aircraft carriers and military assets to the region.
Commentary compares the build‑up to past pre‑conflict moves.
Trump signals readiness for military action but prefers a negotiated outcome.
Iran insists it will not submit to threats.
Analysts note Trump is increasing pressure through military presence while leaving the door open for diplomacy.

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