The Hugh Hewitt Show: Highly Concentrated U.S. seize two oil tankers fleeing Venezuela
13 snips
Jan 8, 2026 
Join Ohio Senator Jon Husted, who discusses his insights on the significant Upward Mobility Act and offers a firsthand account of Operation Absolute Resolve against Venezuela. Senior writer Noah Rothman provides a chilling analysis of the rising political violence and potential civil unrest, drawing parallels to historical patterns. Former Senator Jim Talent emphasizes the importance of the U.S. action in Venezuela for national security and its implications for Cuba. Together, they delve into pressing issues surrounding trade, regional stability, and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy.
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U.S. Seizes Venezuelan Tankers As Leverage
- Hugh Hewitt frames the seizure of two Venezuelan tankers as a major breaking story alongside domestic unrest and protests in Iran.
- He connects U.S. enforcement actions abroad to broader geopolitical leverage over Venezuela's oil revenue.
Mayor vs. Federal Authority Clash
- Mayor Jacob Frey immediately blamed ICE after the Minneapolis shooting and demanded ICE leave the city.
- Hugh Hewitt rejected the mayor's authority and emphasized federal control over ICE operations.
Vehicle Ram Attacks Framed As Terrorism
- DHS portrayed the Minneapolis shooting as a defensive act against a vehicle ramming and labeled vehicle attacks as domestic terrorism.
- The Department plans to work with DOJ to prosecute such assaults as terrorism when appropriate.
