Sara Jacobs, a Congresswoman from California and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, discusses the dire consequences of Trump’s contentious plan to claim Gaza, threatening stability in Egypt and Jordan. The podcast delves into the implications of cutting USAID and the effects on foreign aid in Africa, spotlighting innovative health solutions amidst funding cuts. Jacobs emphasizes the urgency of bipartisan support to safeguard foreign assistance and tackle national security challenges linked to humanitarian crises.
Trump's plan to occupy Gaza disregards international law and risks further destabilizing Egypt and Jordan's governments.
Cuts to USAID funding are severely worsening humanitarian conditions in conflict zones like Sudan and jeopardizing U.S. national security.
Whistleblower allegations against Trump's FBI pick highlight ongoing concerns about foreign election interference and the integrity of federal institutions.
Deep dives
Affordable Luxury Fashion
Quince offers high-end clothing at significantly lower prices, making luxury fashion more accessible than ever. Their selection includes items like Mongolian cashmere sweaters and 100% leather jackets, all priced 50 to 80% less than similar brands. By partnering directly with top manufacturers, Quince eliminates the middleman costs and passes these savings onto consumers. This business model not only elevates personal style but also promotes ethical consumption through responsible manufacturing practices.
Super Bowl Reactions
The hosts share their excitement and disappointment regarding the Super Bowl, specifically about the performance of Patrick Mahomes. They discuss the importance of engaging younger audiences while watching the game, highlighting how their children were uninterested in the match despite being presented as a significant event. The conversation shifts to ads during the game, with criticism directed at the overuse of celebrities in commercials, contrasting with simpler, nostalgic advertisements from the past. The blend of personal anecdotes and cultural observations illustrates the changing landscape of sports viewership.
Trump's Controversial Gaza Plan
A new proposal by Donald Trump suggests the U.S. should occupy Gaza, leading to widespread condemnation in the Arab world. His comments imply ignoring international laws and the sovereignty of Gaza, which could further destabilize the region. The proposal has drawn backlash from leaders in countries like Jordan and Egypt, who fear the implications of forced migration on their populations. This plan, deemed outrageous by many, raises questions about the moral and legal responsibilities of the U.S. in foreign interventions.
Impact of Funding Cuts on Refugees
Cuts in USAID funding are severely impacting humanitarian efforts in conflict zones like Sudan, exacerbating existing crises. With essential services like health care and food assistance being affected, millions face increased starvation and disease outbreaks. These funding cuts undermine previous efforts to stabilize regions and promote international peace in a bid to curb terrorism. The repercussions of these policies not only affect foreign nationals but could also undermine U.S. national security interests in the long term.
Foreign Aid and Drug Trafficking
The freeze on U.S. foreign assistance is hindering operations against drug trafficking organizations in countries like Colombia. This assistance is crucial for maintaining anti-narcotics programs that directly impact U.S. border security. Critics argue that without this support, the fight against transnational drug cartels becomes more challenging, potentially leading to increased illegal drug trafficking into the United States. Thus, the cuts threaten not only global stability but also domestic safety and public health.
USAID and Global Health Initiatives
The looming cuts to USAID are set to have catastrophic effects on global health initiatives, including programs combating diseases like HIV/AIDS. These reductions jeopardize life-saving treatments that millions depend on, leading to potential long-term public health crises. The elimination of funding also impacts crucial preventive measures in epidemic hotspots, leaving vulnerable populations at heightened risk. Lawmakers recognize the necessity of USAID, yet partisan politics complicate their ability to safeguard and advance these vital programs.
Tommy and Ben discuss how Trump’s insane plan to ethnically cleanse and “own” the Gaza strip is destabilizing governments in Egypt and Jordan, and why Trump keeps undermining the Gaza ceasefire deal he helped broker. They also discuss new whistleblower allegations about Trump’s pick to lead the FBI, how the Department of Justice is making it harder to combat foreign election interference and corruption, JD Vance’s speech scolding Europe for AI safety regulations, Trump’s Executive Order cutting off aid to South Africa, the dynastic political battle in the Philippines, and the discovery of new JFK assassination documents. Then, Tommy speaks to Congresswoman Sara Jacobs about the damage from cuts to USAID and what levers Democrats can pull to stop Trump from gutting agencies.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
