Shawn Ryan Show #170 Mike Benz - USAID Funding CIA-Backed Mercenaries, Media Superweapons and Samantha Powers
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Feb 12, 2025 
Mike Benz, Executive Director of the Foundation for Freedom Online, criticizes USAID's dual role in humanitarian efforts and covert political manipulation. He highlights how funding influences media narratives and electoral processes in countries like Romania and Pakistan. The discussion also examines the government funding's impact on media independence, alongside the need for reforms to ensure accountability. Benz brings attention to the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and calls for ethical considerations in foreign aid, emphasizing the importance of integrity in both media and government actions.
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Romanian Election Interference
- Romanian Supreme Court annulled an election, citing Russian interference, mirroring Trump's experience.
- USAID sent tens of millions, called a "bride" by Romanian presidential candidate Colleen Georgescu.
Neutrality as a Threat
- Georgescu's stance mirrors Imran Khan's, who was ousted for neutrality on the Russia-Ukraine conflict after leaked cables revealed US pressure.
- Both leaders' neutrality threatened US interests in the region, leading to intervention.
USAID and Election Manipulation
- USAID targets "election management bodies" (EMBs) globally to influence court decisions and criminalize questioning election results.
- This tactic, aimed at suppressing populism, was also attempted against Trump after the 2016 election.