🔥 Episode Summary

In this breaking-news edition of Verdict with Ted Cruz, recorded live at 1:00 AM Eastern, Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson react in real time to the release of hostages held in Gaza. The release follows a historic peace agreement brokered by former President Donald Trump, marking a major diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East.

📌 Key Topics Covered ✅ Hostage Release in Gaza

• Hamas has released all 20 living hostages to the Red Cross.
• The agreement includes the release of both living hostages and the remains of those killed.
• Celebrations erupt in Israel as the first seven hostages are confirmed released.

• In exchange, Israel is releasing about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including:

  • 250 serving long sentences,

  • 1,700 detained during the conflict

🕊️ Trump’s Peace Deal

• Israel agrees to a full ceasefire in exchange for the hostages.
• Trump travels to the Middle East to personally welcome the freed hostages.
• The deal is praised across political lines, including by Hillary Clinton and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

🛑 Criticism of Biden Administration

• Cruz argues Biden’s policies empowered Hamas via funding to Iran.
• Contrasts Trump’s “peace through strength” with Biden’s “weakness and appeasement.”

💣 Military Strategy & Diplomacy

• Trump’s bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities cited as pivotal.
• Israel’s covert pager operation against Hezbollah discussed as a cinematic-level intelligence success.

🏆 Nobel Peace Prize Controversy

• Cruz criticizes the Nobel Committee for overlooking Trump.
• Prize recipient María Corina Machado reportedly dedicates her award to Trump.

🏛️ U.S. Government Shutdown

• Cruz blames Democrats for the ongoing shutdown.
• Highlights Senate voting dynamics and political motivations behind the delay.

Senator Cruz closes the episode by praising Trump, Netanyahu, and the Israeli people, calling the day “historic” and “a victory for peace.” The episode captures a rare moment of real-time diplomacy and bipartisan recognition.

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A monumental shift toward Middle East peace, highlighting President Donald Trump’s role in facilitating what is being hailed as a transformative geopolitical achievement. A celebration of the return of 20 living hostages from Gaza to Israel and the broader implications of the Trump-brokered peace agreement. 

The hosts celebrate the end of a two-year war between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the ceasefire and the dismantling of Hamas leadership. They underscore the significance of Trump’s speech to the Israeli Knesset, where he was met with overwhelming support and gratitude. The episode positions Trump as the “Peacemaker-in-Chief,” drawing comparisons to historical figures like Ronald Reagan and Winston Churchill and framing his second term as potentially the most transformative presidency of the 21st century.

Is Trump Still Hitler?

Clay and Buck explore the strategic shift in diplomacy under Trump, crediting his administration’s focus on deal-making and economic cooperation over religious divisions. They highlight the roles of Jared Kushner and other Trump allies in fostering relationships with Arab leaders, which helped lay the groundwork for a durable peace framework. The hosts argue that this approach has led to a rational, commerce-driven foundation for coexistence in the region.

The episode also critiques the political left, particularly progressive voices and media outlets, for their past opposition to Trump and their silence in the wake of this peace breakthrough. The hosts challenge the moral clarity of those who previously equated Trump with authoritarian figures, pointing out the cognitive dissonance now evident as even critics acknowledge his success. They cite praise from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and CNN’s Clarissa Ward, who noted Trump’s immense popularity in Israel.

What Comes Next? 

Buck Sexton is joined by columnist and podcast host Karol Markowicz for a compelling conversation on the geopolitical, cultural, and moral dimensions of the peace deal and the return of hostages from Gaza. Reflections on Trump’s bold assertion that the peace agreement will endure, marking a pivotal moment for Israel and the broader region. Buck and Karol discuss the emotional impact of the return of 20 hostages, the horrors they endured, and the global silence surrounding their captivity. Karol highlights the failure of European nations to support the peace process and praises the Trump administration for its decisive leadership.

Karol emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in Gaza, advocating for a future built on peace, prosperity, and coexistence. She praises Trump’s deal-making approach and the economic incentives that could transform Gaza into a stable, thriving region. The episode includes a live segment from Trump’s speech in Egypt, where he declares that World War III will not begin in the Middle East and calls for a future free of ancient feuds and hatred.

As a Jewish American conservative, Karol shares her personal reflections on the past two years of rising antisemitism and hostility toward Israel. She expresses gratitude for the support from the political right and describes the emotional significance of Hostage Square being renamed Freed Square in Israel.

We Never Wavered

A central theme is the weakening of Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. The hosts explore internal power struggles within Gaza and the role of regional players like Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in enforcing the peace. They credit Trump’s strategic pressure and military actions—particularly the 12-day war with Iran—for reshaping alliances and forcing Hamas to accept terms they initially rejected.

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Hour 1 of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show delivers a powerful and emotionally charged breakdown of the historic developments in the Middle East, with a strong focus on the return of 20 living hostages from Gaza to Israel and the broader implications of the Trump-brokered peace agreement. This episode centers on the monumental shift toward Middle East peace, highlighting President Donald Trump’s role in facilitating what is being hailed as a transformative geopolitical achievement.

The hosts celebrate the end of a two-year war between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the ceasefire and the dismantling of Hamas leadership. They underscore the significance of Trump’s speech to the Israeli Knesset, where he was met with overwhelming support and gratitude. The episode positions Trump as the “Peacemaker-in-Chief,” drawing comparisons to historical figures like Ronald Reagan and Winston Churchill and framing his second term as potentially the most transformative presidency of the 21st century.

Clay and Buck explore the strategic shift in diplomacy under Trump, crediting his administration’s focus on deal-making and economic cooperation over religious divisions. They highlight the roles of Jared Kushner and other Trump allies in fostering relationships with Arab leaders, which helped lay the groundwork for a durable peace framework. The hosts argue that this approach has led to a rational, commerce-driven foundation for coexistence in the region.

The episode also critiques the political left, particularly progressive voices and media outlets, for their past opposition to Trump and their silence in the wake of this peace breakthrough. The hosts challenge the moral clarity of those who previously equated Trump with authoritarian figures, pointing out the cognitive dissonance now evident as even critics acknowledge his success. They cite praise from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and CNN’s Clarissa Ward, who noted Trump’s immense popularity in Israel.

Listeners are reminded of the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy, national security, and energy independence. The hosts argue that peace in the Middle East strengthens America’s position globally and reduces the likelihood of future military interventions. They also discuss the strategic impact of the U.S.-Israel strike on Iran, suggesting it was a key factor in Hamas’s willingness to negotiate.

In closing, Hour 1 reflects on the emotional reunions of hostage families, the moral clarity of supporting Israel, and the validation felt by Trump supporters. The segment ends with a call to recognize and celebrate this historic moment, framing it as a victory for peace, diplomacy, and American leadership.

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Hour 2 of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show continues its deep dive into the historic Middle East peace agreement brokered by President Donald Trump. Buck Sexton is joined by columnist and podcast host Karol Markowicz for a compelling conversation on the geopolitical, cultural, and moral dimensions of the peace deal and the return of hostages from Gaza.

The hour opens with reflections on Trump’s bold assertion that the peace agreement will endure, marking a pivotal moment for Israel and the broader region. Buck and Karol discuss the emotional impact of the return of 20 hostages, the horrors they endured, and the global silence surrounding their captivity. Karol highlights the failure of European nations to support the peace process and praises the Trump administration for its decisive leadership.

A central theme is the weakening of Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. The hosts explore internal power struggles within Gaza and the role of regional players like Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in enforcing the peace. They credit Trump’s strategic pressure and military actions—particularly the 12-day war with Iran—for reshaping alliances and forcing Hamas to accept terms they initially rejected.

Karol emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in Gaza, advocating for a future built on peace, prosperity, and coexistence. She praises Trump’s deal-making approach and the economic incentives that could transform Gaza into a stable, thriving region. The episode includes a live segment from Trump’s speech in Egypt, where he declares that World War III will not begin in the Middle East and calls for a future free of ancient feuds and hatred.

As a Jewish American conservative, Karol shares her personal reflections on the past two years of rising antisemitism and hostility toward Israel. She expresses gratitude for the support from the political right and describes the emotional significance of Hostage Square being renamed Freed Square in Israel.

The hour also critiques the United Nations, questioning its relevance in light of Trump’s success in achieving peace without its involvement. A caller from Pennsylvania echoes this sentiment, suggesting the UN has become obsolete and praising Trump’s direct diplomacy.

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Hour 3 of the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show delivers a dynamic blend of historical reflection, political analysis, and continued celebration of President Donald Trump’s landmark Middle East peace agreement. Buck Sexton leads the hour solo, diving into the cultural and geopolitical significance of the day, which he dubs both “Middle East Peace Day” and “Columbus Day.”

The hour begins with a spirited defense of Columbus Day, pushing back against progressive efforts to rebrand it as Indigenous Peoples Day. Buck critiques Vice President Kamala Harris’s 2021 remarks on colonialism, arguing that conquest and conflict are universal aspects of human history—not unique to European explorers. He highlights the brutality and tribal warfare among pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Incas and Aztecs and challenges the modern narrative that vilifies European exploration while ignoring indigenous practices like slavery and cannibalism.

Transitioning to current events, Buck celebrates the Trump administration’s success in brokering peace between Israel and Hamas, calling it the “dawn of a new Middle East.” He plays audio from President Trump’s speech in Egypt, where Trump declares this moment the beginning of a “golden age” for Israel and the region. Buck emphasizes that this achievement—coming in year one of Trump’s second term—is a testament to Trump’s growth, focus, and the strength of his new team. He credits Trump’s strategic leadership and deal-making skills for bringing together unlikely Arab and Muslim partners to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages and agreeing to peace.

The hour features a heartfelt interview with Robin Van Etten, U.S. CEO and global COO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. She shares the emotional impact of the hostage returns, the role of faith and prayer in the process, and the fellowship’s efforts to support families through medical and psychological care. Robin praises Trump and Netanyahu for their tireless work and acknowledges the unwavering support of millions of Christians worldwide.

Buck also addresses critics who question whether supporting Israel aligns with “America First” principles. He argues that regional stability benefits the U.S. by reducing global terrorism and preventing future attacks like 9/11, Madrid, and London. He contrasts Trump’s success with the failures of past Democratic administrations, particularly under Obama and Biden, and calls out the left’s misguided foreign policy elitism.

Toward the end of the hour, Buck previews upcoming political races, including the Virginia gubernatorial contest, the New Jersey governor’s race, and the New York City mayoral election. A caller highlights key moments from a recent Virginia debate, expressing optimism about Republican candidate Winsome Sears. Buck promises deeper coverage in future episodes.

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Seamus Coughlin, the creator of FreedomToons, joins David Rutherford to talk about his incredible journey from self-taught animator to building one of the most unique storytelling voices online. Together, they dive into the launch of Seamus’ new project Twisted Plots, an anthology animation series with bold themes, sharp comedy, and a vision to reclaim storytelling.

Support Seamus Coughlin's new project, Twisted Plots: www.twistedplots.com 

Next Steps:

• 🏫 Get coaching by David Rutherford: https://www.froglogicinstitute.com/
• 📕 Get David's novel, The Poet Warrior: https://www.ballastbooks.com/ballast-bookstore/the-poet-warrior
• 📰 Sign up for David's weekly newsletter for free coaching tips, updates, and more: https://davidrutherfordletter.substack.com/

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

02:46 - Getting started and creating FreedomToons

08:11 - Launching Twisted Plots

09:48 - Avoiding civil war and the power of media

12:38 - The intention behind the show

22:50 - Developing storylines and fighting the narrative

34:03 - The difficulty of scaling animation work

39:06 - How to support Twisted Plots and the amazing perks you get

56:31 - Twisted Plots Promotional Video

 

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In this episode, Tudor sits down with author Tom Sturges to unpack the mysteries of the male mind. Drawing from his book “Men Explained Finally,” Sturges shares candid observations about how men think, communicate, and connect emotionally—often through a lens shaped since adolescence. Together, they explore why men crave praise, how emotional expression differs between genders, and the powerful role of physical attraction and self-image in modern relationships. This honest and often humorous discussion sheds light on the real differences between men and women—and how empathy and open communication can bring them closer together. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network. For more visit TudorDixonPodcast.com

Purchase Tom's Book

 

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 Analysis of President Donald Trump’s latest cabinet meeting and his bold claim of negotiating peace in eight major conflicts worldwide, including Armenia-Azerbaijan, Congo-Rwanda, Iran-Israel, India-Pakistan, Cambodia-Thailand, Serbia-Kosovo, and Ethiopia-Egypt. Clay and Buck spotlight Trump’s efforts to end the Israel-Hamas war, secure hostage releases, and pivot toward resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which remains stalled due to Vladimir Putin’s territorial ambitions and disregard for casualties. The hosts debate whether Trump’s peace initiatives could merit a Nobel Peace Prize, contrasting his tangible achievements with past awards given for far less.

Buck broadcasts from Washington, DC and argues that the shutdown highlights the bloated nature of government and suggests that essential services continue to function without the non-essential workforce.

Breaking news on James Comey’s trial, where the former FBI Director pleaded not guilty to federal charges of lying to Congress and obstructing proceedings. Buck critiques the hypocrisy of Democrats warning about “dangerous precedent,” pointing out years of lawfare against Donald Trump and his allies. 

Buck revisits Comey’s controversial history, including the Martha Stewart prosecution and his role in targeting General Michael Flynn, framing the trial as a symbolic pushback against a two-tiered justice system—even if conviction remains unlikely.  Buck played an old clip from Rush Limbaugh in May of 2017, where he warned us about Comey and Brennan.  

New York Attorney General Letitia James charged as part of a mortgage fraud investigation.

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Rumble -

Autograph etiquette. Taylor and Travis get engaged. Katie Miller talks about everything.

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