Verdict with Ted Cruz

Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too.

Here’s a sample episode recapping four takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Going After Greenland

Reaction to the College Football National Championship, where Indiana defeated Miami in a game Clay Travis and Buck Sexton attended in person alongside President Donald Trump. The hosts describe the atmosphere as overwhelmingly pro‑Indiana despite Miami hosting, highlight Trump’s appearance during the national anthem, and reflect on what they characterize as a renewed sense of public patriotism at major American sporting events.

A deep dive into President Trump’s escalating push to acquire Greenland, which Clay and Buck frame as one of the most consequential and unexpected foreign‑policy stories of the moment. They analyze Trump’s comments asserting that Denmark cannot adequately defend the territory, his insistence that the U.S. “has to have it” for national security reasons, and prediction‑market odds placing roughly a 50‑50 chance on American control of at least part of Greenland in the near future. The hosts connect the potential acquisition to U.S. military strategy, Arctic dominance, rare‑earth minerals, long‑term resource access, and historical precedents like the Louisiana Purchase and the Alaska deal.

Exploring the U.S. military presence at Greenland’s Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) and NATO reactions, including symbolic European military drills. Clay and Buck argue these gestures have not deterred Trump, who has elevated Greenland as a headline issue ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos. They discuss Trump’s negotiating style—starting with seemingly outrageous positions to force concessions—and speculate on territorial status, sovereignty questions, and whether Greenland’s small population could eventually vote to become a U.S. territory under existing American territorial law.

Trump 2.0

An evaluation of President Donald Trump’s first year in his second term, marking the one‑year anniversary of Trump’s return to office and the official start of Trump 2.0 Year Two. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton frame this hour as a turning point—from executing the campaign agenda to actively selling Trump’s record ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, which the hosts describe as the final national referendum on Trump’s presidency.

Clay outlines eight major accomplishments of Trump’s second term so far, led by the most secure southern border in U.S. history, followed by record‑high stock prices, strong GDP growth, declining inflation despite tariffs, historic murder declines, collapsing fentanyl overdose deaths, falling mortgage rates, and four‑year‑low gas prices. Clay and Buck argue these metrics reflect decisive leadership and policy execution, even as they acknowledge lingering economic frustration among voters due to residual inflation from prior administrations. Listener polls and talkbacks show overwhelming support from Trump voters, with most grading the president’s first year an “A.”

Oppression Narratives

A major cultural segment in Hour 2 examines what Clay and Buck describe as modern left‑wing victimhood narratives, sparked by comments made on The View by actress Pam Grier claiming she witnessed lynchings as a child in Ohio. The hosts dissect historical data showing the claim is impossible given Grier’s birth year and Ohio’s documented history. They argue the story reflects a broader media failure to challenge false narratives that reinforce ideological grievance politics, highlighting how such claims go unchallenged on mainstream television. This discussion expands into a deeper breakdown of historical lynching data, including distinctions between frontier justice, mob violence, and formal definitions used by organizations like the NAACP. Buck emphasizes that lynching history is often misrepresented for political impact, while Clay argues objective reality and historical context must matter in public discourse.

Why Greenland Matters

A detailed discussion of Greenland and geopolitics, which Clay and Buck describe as one of the most important foreign‑policy themes emerging ahead of Davos. They respond to statements from European leaders, including the European Commission and Danish officials, rejecting any U.S. claim to Greenland. Clay and Buck outline Trump’s strategic rationale, focusing on Arctic security, resource access, emerging shipping lanes, and historical precedents such as the U.S. purchase of Alaska and the U.S. Virgin Islands from Denmark. They argue Trump envisions a negotiated, voluntary territorial arrangement rather than military action, potentially involving direct payments and a referendum among Greenland’s population.

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1. Central Claim of the Narrative
Over 10,000 “criminal illegal aliens” have been arrested in Minneapolis alone, with: 3,000 arrests in the past six weeks
70% tied to violent crimes

These arrests are attributed to DHS and ICE operations under the Trump administration.
2. Crimes Described
The arrests are said to include individuals accused of:
Murder
Rape
Child sexual offenses
Other violent felonies
This is the “worst of the worst” offenders and the arrests are a major public safety victory.
3. Accusations Against Minnesota Leadership:
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey
of the following:
Failing to protect public safety
Undermining federal immigration enforcement
Encouraging hostility toward ICE
Obstructing law enforcement through public statements
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating both officials for allegedly impeding federal law enforcement, though it acknowledges:
The investigation is in early stages
No subpoenas or charges are confirmed
4. Allegations of Massive Financial Fraud
At least $19 billion in fraud tied to Minneapolis alone
Federal investigators are conducting large‑scale financial investigations
Some funds went to terrorist organizations (e.g., Al‑Shabab)
5. This Federal Case also includes:
Ties to the Feeding Our Future organization:
Is a real federal investigation in Minnesota
Involves approximately $250 million in alleged pandemic-era food program fraud
Has resulted in charges against 70 individuals (between 2022–2024)
6. Media Bias Argument
CBS and CNN are deliberately misleading the public
Journalists are accused of: Lying about arrest numbers
Downplaying criminal activity
Framing DOJ actions as “intimidation”

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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.
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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)

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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.
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