System Update with Glenn Greenwald cover image

System Update with Glenn Greenwald

More Sinister USAID Programs Emerge; Rumble Returns to Brazil as its Chief Censor is Warned of Arrest; Why CFPB Protects Consumers With Matt Stoller

Feb 11, 2025
Matt Stoller, a finance and antitrust expert, dives into the controversial USAID programs that manipulate foreign nations, drawing parallels to CIA operations. He also discusses Rumble's return to Brazil after a censorship battle, spotlighting critical free speech issues. Stoller warns about the dangers posed to consumers by potential cuts to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, emphasizing how these changes could benefit Wall Street, jeopardizing protection for everyday Americans. His insights reveal the intricate dance between government influence and consumer rights.
01:27:23

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • USAID serves as a covert arm of U.S. foreign policy, often disguising its operations as humanitarian aid while promoting propaganda.
  • Rumble's return to Brazil signifies a victory for free speech advocates amid challenges posed by government censorship and media control.

Deep dives

The Role and Function of USAID

USAID acts as a covert extension of U.S. foreign policy, often aligning with the CIA's interests. Although it engages in projects meant to provide humanitarian aid, it is essentially an instrument for CIA operations due to its ability to blend into various environments under the guise of benevolence. Recent investigations reveal that USAID has created extensive networks of media outlets across the globe that seem independent but actually disseminate U.S. propaganda. This hidden agenda not only undermines democratic processes in foreign nations but also raises significant concerns about the transparency and accountability of such funding.

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