The Muckrake Political Podcast

Shock And Oil

11 snips
Jan 6, 2026
The podcast dives into the shocking U.S. operation that led to the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. It raises urgent concerns about military actions without congressional approval and the implications of an authoritarian-controlled military. The hosts explore the motivations behind reclaiming Venezuela’s oil and examine the erosion of international law. They connect this operation to a broader trend of authoritarianism and discuss risks for other countries, warning about the dark future of global politics.
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INSIGHT

Overt Use Of Military Power Without Oversight

  • The U.S. used special forces to abduct Venezuela's president and bomb Caracas, then claimed control without congressional authorization.
  • Jared Yates Sexton warns this shows the U.S. military is operating under an authoritarian commander with no effective pushback.
INSIGHT

Raid Likely Required Months Of Planning

  • The raid's logistical success surprised the hosts because such missions usually fail or leak.
  • Nick Hauselman suggests months of planning and possible prior knowledge within parts of the military.
INSIGHT

Military Whistleblower Warnings And Reprisals

  • Mark Kelly's public warning to the military may have come from knowing about unlawful plans like this.
  • The hosts worry the administration will target dissenting military figures like Kelly to silence opposition.
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