The Preamble The Pentagon Papers, Why Nobody Wants Venezuelan Oil, and Answers to Your Questions
Jan 12, 2026
Politics professor Casey Burgat dives into the riveting tale of the Pentagon Papers, detailing the risks taken by whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg and the profound impact of the New York Times' publication. Nobel laureate Paul Krugman debunks myths surrounding immigration, illustrating its economic benefits, while also exploring why U.S. oil companies shy away from Venezuelan oil despite the political narrative. Sharon also tackles pressing questions about Venezuela and the legality of recent U.S. actions, providing a thought-provoking analysis of international law.
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Ellsberg's Secret Copying Operation
- Daniel Ellsberg secretly copied the 7,000-page Pentagon study over months to expose government deception.
- He even used after-hours photocopiers and enlisted his children as lookouts during the operation.
Supreme Court Reinforced Press Freedom
- The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that prior restraint on the press is unconstitutional in the Pentagon Papers case.
- That decision became a foundational protection enabling investigative journalism in the U.S.
Leaks Fueled Watergate Escalation
- The Pentagon Papers triggered Nixon's paranoid response and led directly to the creation of the Plumbers unit.
- That unit's illegal activities escalated into Watergate and Nixon's eventual resignation.