The Daily Signal

Mark Peake, Chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia and state senator, dives into the upcoming 2026 election landscape. He discusses the implications of redistricting, addressing internal party drama, and upcoming voter outreach strategies. Peake warns about potential political backfires for Democrats and the necessity of keeping Trump supporters engaged. He highlights critical dates for the electoral calendar, including a referendum on redistricting, and emphasizes the importance of mobilizing voters against Democratic policies to energize the Republican base.

In this discussion, guest Steve Cortes, an investigative reporter and founder of CortezInvestigates.com, dives into his discoveries about Operation Midas, exposing $100 million in fraud linked to Zelensky's associates. He shares alarming insights about the SBU's raids, retaliation against NABU investigators, and the human cost of corruption in wartime Ukraine. Cortes also analyzes a potential U.S.-brokered peace deal with controversial trade-offs concerning territorial concessions and security guarantees for the Ukrainians.

The discussion revolves around shifting perspectives on climate change, highlighting a waning consensus amid new economic and geopolitical realities. AI's soaring electricity needs challenge traditional energy solutions, questioning the practicality of solely relying on renewables. Skepticism grows as high-profile figures stir doubt. The podcast also critiques the hypocrisy of climate advocates, spotlighting their disconnect between rhetoric and personal actions, raising vital questions about accountability and responsibility in the climate narrative.

The recent passage of a bill to release more Epstein files has House Democrats in a frenzy. Revelations about Representative Stacey Plaskett's communications with Epstein are causing serious concerns. Rob Bluey discusses the looming fight over the continuing resolution and economic priorities. Representative Tim Burchett sheds light on the frequent delays and dilutions in legislation caused by outside influences, emphasizing the need for stronger policies without inflationary impacts.

The discussion highlights significant achievements of the Trump administration on border security, energy, and crime reduction. Victor Davis Hanson emphasizes that elections are won on economic performance, not foreign policy. He raises concerns about plans to double Chinese students in the U.S. and warns against increasing H-1B visa limits, fearing they jeopardize American jobs. The importance of effective public messaging around current policies to ensure economic growth leading into 2026 is also a key takeaway.

Virginia Allen, a Senior news producer and acting defense and foreign correspondent, brings insights on escalating tensions between the U.S., Mexico, and Venezuela. She discusses kinetic strikes against narcoterrorists and the implications for regional security. Virginia also explains Operation 'Charlotte's Web,' focusing on immigrant statistics in North Carolina and local reactions. Additionally, she delves into the House's contentious vote on Jeffrey Epstein files, highlighting the need for transparency amidst bipartisan scrutiny.

The conversation dives into the fine line between platforming, canceling, and deplatforming in media. Victor Davis Hanson discusses the nuances of inviting controversial figures like Nick Fuentes and the social norms that dictate acceptable discourse. He critiques Tucker Carlson's interviewing tactics, suggesting he could have challenged Fuentes more rigorously. The discussion highlights the risks of hosting extremists and the responsibility of media figures to maintain ethical boundaries in their platforms.

The United States is poised to label Nicolas Maduro's drug cartel as a terrorist organization. Congress is at odds over extending COVID-era Obamacare subsidies while grappling with the fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein files. Meanwhile, discussions heat up around innovative healthcare proposals, like direct payments to offset high deductibles. The military's readiness in response to increased narco-trafficking activity is also under scrutiny, showcasing a complex intersection of healthcare policy and national security.

Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson discusses recent changes at the Department of War under Secretary Pete Hegseth. He highlights the push for higher fitness standards and the increase in female enlistment, emphasizing that women are eager to meet those standards. Wilson also delves into the Pentagon's aggressive anti-drug operations, classifying cartels as terrorist organizations. Further, he reflects on the impact of the recent government shutdown on military families and the cultural shift toward prioritizing family values.

Rep. Riley Moore, U.S. Representative from West Virginia and a former House Foreign Affairs staffer, sheds light on the alarming situation for Christians in Nigeria, where over 50,000 have been killed since 2009. He discusses the role of groups like Boko Haram and the Fulani herdsmen and critiques the current administration's approach to addressing religious persecution. Moore also explains the implications of U.S. foreign policy, the International Religious Freedom Act, and potential non-military strategies to protect vulnerable communities without extensive military involvement.