# Two-way Sword > A massive shift in American defense policy triggers the resignation of James Mattis while private contractors and Turkish interests prepare to fill the vacuum. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 1097 - **Published:** 2018-12-23 - **Length:** 2h 44m - **Topics:** Mattis Resignation, Syria Withdrawal, 5G Health, Congo Election, Patreon Boycott, Border Shutdown - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword ## About this episode Secretary of Defense James Mattis resigned following President Trump's sudden order to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria and Afghanistan, sparking a leadership crisis at the Pentagon. The departure coincides with a reported phone call between Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where a deal was struck to transfer regional security responsibilities to Turkey. This geopolitical shift is further complicated by the re-emergence of Blackwater and Erik Prince, signaling a potential transition toward private military contractors in conflict zones. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ambassador Nikki Haley raised alarms at the UN over the use of South Korean touchscreen voting machines during an election held amidst an Ebola outbreak. Domestically, the federal government faces a shutdown as President Trump demands five billion dollars for border wall funding, a move critics like Senator Maisie Hirono attribute to pressure from media figures Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court remains in focus as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg faces health challenges, positioning Amy Coney Barrett and Joan Larson as leading contenders for a potential vacancy. In the tech sector, Apple released a specific iOS update for Turkey to resolve connectivity issues following Erdogan's call for a boycott of American electronics. Dr. Sharon Goldberg provided testimony comparing the biological risks of 5G radiation to the asbestos crisis, warning of long-term industry liability. The episode features audio supercuts of Rachel Maddow's Russia coverage and a heated House floor exchange between Maxine Waters and Mike Kelly. Sir Cal of lavenderblossoms.org and executive producers Greg Davies and David Nixon receive formal recognition for their support of the value-for-value model during this 2018 holiday finale. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/transcript.md. ### 1. Zephyr Train Noise, Austin Freight Horns (0:00–2:16) A discussion regarding noise complaints involving the Zephyr and freight trains in Austin, Texas. One speaker describes calling in complaints about engineers honking horns at 3:00 AM in areas without crossings. The dialogue transitions into the day's primary news beat regarding international elections. Keywords: [zephyr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zephyr.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [freight trains](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freight-trains.md), [noise complaints](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/noise-complaints.md), railroad crossings [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Democratic Republic of Congo, Ebola and Voting Machines (2:17–8:46) The Democratic Republic of Congo held an election on December 23, 2018, amid an Ebola outbreak and controversy over touchscreen voting machines manufactured by South Korean firm Miru Systems. U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley expressed deep concern at the UN regarding the untested technology, suggesting paper ballots were necessary for credibility. Speculation is raised that Ebola reports may serve as a pretext for military intervention to secure mineral resources like cobalt and gold. Keywords: [democratic republic of congo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-republic-of-congo.md), [ebola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebola.md), miru systems, [nikki haley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nikki-haley.md), [voting machines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting-machines.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Health and Career Legacy (8:47–10:22) Speculation regarding the health and potential retirement of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg follows her recent cancer battles. While her physical frailty is noted, her significant contributions to the American experience and women's rights are acknowledged. The discussion centers on the likelihood of a vacancy occurring within the next year. Keywords: [ruth bader ginsburg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ruth-bader-ginsburg.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [cancer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cancer.md), [women's rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/women-s-rights.md), [justice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/justice.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Supreme Court Candidates, Amy Coney Barrett and Joan Larson (10:24–18:03) Analysis of potential Supreme Court nominees focuses on Amy Coney Barrett and Joan Larson. Audio clips from confirmation hearings feature Barrett discussing the separation of personal faith from the law and Larson defining judicial independence under questioning by Chairman Chuck Grassley. Comparisons are made regarding their telegenic qualities, judicial experience, and public presentation styles. Keywords: [amy coney barrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-coney-barrett.md), joan larson, [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), judicial independence, [chuck grassley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-grassley.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Supreme Court Religious Diversity, Catholic and Jewish Justices (18:06–21:28) A critique of the religious composition of the Supreme Court highlights the predominance of Catholic and Jewish justices. Research into Joan Larson's religious affiliation yielded no definitive results, contrasting her with the staunchly Catholic Amy Coney Barrett. The segment also touches on the personal backgrounds and spouses of the potential nominees. Keywords: [catholicism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/catholicism.md), [judaism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/judaism.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [amy coney barrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-coney-barrett.md), joan larson [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/5.md) ### 6. James Mattis Resignation, Syria Withdrawal Backlash (21:29–27:41) General James Mattis resigned as Secretary of Defense following President Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan. Media figures and politicians from both parties criticized the move, while historical clips of Mattis discussing the "hoot" of combat are revisited. Rumors are mentioned suggesting Mattis was considering a 2020 presidential run, contributing to the rift with the White House. Keywords: [james mattis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-mattis.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Pentagon Leadership Disputes, Mark Milley and Audit Failures (27:42–30:28) Internal conflicts at the Pentagon involved disagreements over the appointment of Mark Milley as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff over Mattis's preferred candidate, David Goldfein. Additionally, the Department of Defense's failure to pass its first-ever financial audit is cited as a significant but underreported factor in the leadership transition. Keywords: [mark milley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-milley.md), david goldfein, [pentagon audit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon-audit.md), [james mattis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-mattis.md), [joint chiefs of staff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joint-chiefs-of-staff.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/7.md) ### 8. PBS NewsHour Coverage, Leon Panetta and Richard Haass (30:29–37:19) Leon Panetta and Richard Haass appeared on PBS NewsHour to discuss the national security risks posed by the U.S. withdrawal from Syria. Haass, representing the Council on Foreign Relations, argued that the move shredded America's reputation for reliability among allies like Japan and South Korea. Ron Paul's contrasting constitutional perspective on ending "dumb wars" is also highlighted. Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [leon panetta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leon-panetta.md), [richard haass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/richard-haass.md), [council on foreign relations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/council-on-foreign-relations.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Turkey-US Relations, Erdogan and the Kurdish Conflict (37:20–40:05) President Trump's decision to exit Syria reportedly followed a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who promised to finish the fight against ISIS. The deal involves Turkey delaying operations against U.S.-backed Kurdish forces to allow them to relocate. Speculation suggests the arrangement may involve a "quid pro quo" regarding the Khashoggi investigation and Saudi Arabia. Keywords: [recep tayyip erdogan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recep-tayyip-erdogan.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [kurds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kurds.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Blackwater Re-emergence, Erik Prince and Recoil Magazine (40:06–40:52) An advertisement in Recoil Magazine featuring the Blackwater logo and the phrase "We are coming" suggests a return of private military contractors. The discussion posits that while conventional troops may leave Syria and Afghanistan, mercenaries led by Erik Prince may take over covert operations, particularly regarding the protection of poppy fields. Keywords: [blackwater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackwater.md), [erik prince](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/erik-prince.md), recoil magazine, [mercenaries](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mercenaries.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Apple iOS Update, Turkey Cellular Connectivity Bugs (40:54–43:23) Apple released iOS 12.1.2 specifically to address cellular connectivity issues in Turkey following President Erdogan's call for a boycott of U.S. electronics. Theories are proposed that the update may involve specialized surveillance capabilities or technical concessions to the Turkish government to maintain market access. Keywords: [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), ios 12.1.2, [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), tayyip erdogan, esim [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Global Trade Strategy, Turkish Glassware and Arms Deals (43:24–46:17) The geopolitical strategy of the Trump administration is characterized as shifting toward trade and arms sales, including an $11 billion contract with Turkey and a $110 billion deal with Saudi Arabia. The discussion notes the high quality of Turkish glassware and suggests that letting regional powers manage their own conflicts while purchasing American equipment is a deliberate policy shift. Keywords: [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), arms deals, [trade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trade.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Government Shutdown, Ann Coulter and Border Wall Funding (46:18–51:50) A federal government shutdown looms as President Trump demands $5 billion for border wall funding, a move attributed by media analysts to pressure from conservative commentators like Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh. Critics on CNN and PBS argue that the President is being manipulated by right-wing media, while supporters claim he is finally fulfilling a core campaign promise. Keywords: [ann coulter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ann-coulter.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), [border wall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-wall.md), [government shutdown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/government-shutdown.md), [jeffrey toobin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeffrey-toobin.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Michael Savage De-platforming, Ben Shapiro Radio Expansion (51:50–57:45) Michael Savage was removed from his New York radio affiliate, effectively losing his national broadcast reach and transitioning to podcasting. In his place, Westwood One is syndicating Ben Shapiro across major markets including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The hosts debate Shapiro's potential for success in traditional radio and his standing within the conservative movement. Keywords: [michael savage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-savage.md), [ben shapiro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-shapiro.md), [wgn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wgn.md), [radio syndication](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radio-syndication.md), [de-platforming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/de-platforming.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Media Bias, PBS NewsHour and Global Warming (57:46–1:01:11) A critique of PBS NewsHour alleges a lack of political balance in its "Shields and Brooks" segment, claiming both commentators share an anti-Trump bias. The discussion compares this to the network's policy on global warming, where opposing viewpoints are reportedly excluded from the broadcast. Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [media bias](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-bias.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [david brooks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-brooks.md), [mark shields](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-shields.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Senator Maisie Hirono, Trump Worldview Critique (1:01:12–1:03:26) Senator Maisie Hirono of Hawaii criticized President Trump's foreign policy and border decisions, describing his worldview as "out of whack." She specifically targeted the administration's policy requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico and blamed "right-wing loud people" on Fox News for the impending government shutdown. Keywords: [maisie hirono](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maisie-hirono.md), [hawaii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hawaii.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), asylum policy, [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Show Production, Live Stream and Episode Artwork (1:03:28–1:05:40) The hosts acknowledge the live audience at noagendastream.com and thank artist Mike Riley for the Episode 1096 artwork, which featured a reversed map of Africa and Europe. They emphasize the value of recording live with real-time feedback from the "troll room." Keywords: [no agenda stream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-stream.md), [mike riley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-riley.md), [podcast artwork](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-artwork.md), [trolls](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trolls.md), live recording [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Executive Producer Credits, CBD Discounts and Mulled Wine (1:05:41–1:14:35) A segment dedicated to thanking high-tier donors and executive producers. Sir Cal of lavenderblossoms.org is highlighted for providing a CBD discount code "ITM" for listeners. Other donors are thanked for gifts including Space Force challenge coins, handmade soap, and mulled wine. Keywords: [lavender blossoms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lavender-blossoms.md), [cbd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbd.md), [space force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/space-force.md), mulled wine, [executive producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Donor Thank-Yous, Knighthood Requests and Show Logistics (1:14:38–1:23:00) The hosts continue reading donor notes from the "peerage," including requests for knighthood and end-of-show mixes. They promote the upcoming 1100th episode and reiterate the "value-for-value" model, encouraging listeners to support the show financially to keep it independent. Keywords: [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), show 1100 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/19.md) ### 20. 5G Technology Health Risks, Dr. Sharon Goldberg Testimony (1:23:01–1:29:08) Dr. Sharon Goldberg's testimony regarding the biological effects of 5G and wireless radiation is presented. She links electromagnetic radiation to epidemics of diabetes, DNA damage, and mental health issues, citing peer-reviewed literature. The hosts express skepticism about the "settled science" while noting that 5G's millimeter-wave technology is significantly different from previous cellular generations. Keywords: [5g](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/5g.md), sharon goldberg, [electromagnetic radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electromagnetic-radiation.md), [diabetes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diabetes.md), [cancer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cancer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Wireless Radiation, Asbestos Comparison and Industry Liability (1:29:09–1:32:29) The potential health risks of constant Wi-Fi and 5G exposure are compared to the 20th-century asbestos crisis. The discussion suggests that major telecom and tech companies like Intel and Verizon may face massive future liability if definitive links to chronic diseases are established, leading to efforts to suppress critical research. Keywords: [wifi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wifi.md), microwave frequency, [5g](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/5g.md), [intel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intel.md), telecom industry [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Creator Terminology, Patreon and Community Standards (1:32:30–1:35:02) A critique of the term "creator" as used by platforms like Patreon and Adobe. One host finds the term trivializing and blasphemous, preferring "podcaster" or "artist." The discussion touches on how Patreon uses the term to imply ownership over the individuals using its financial exchange services. Keywords: [patreon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patreon.md), [creators](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/creators.md), [scott adams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scott-adams.md), [adobe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adobe.md), [branding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/branding.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/22.md) ### 23. The Fediverse, Decentralized Social Media Alternatives (1:35:03–1:36:47) An overview of decentralized social media alternatives known as the Fediverse, including Mastodon (Twitter alternative), PixelFed (Instagram alternative), and PeerTube. The hosts explain that while these platforms lack the addictive algorithms and mainstream feedback loops of Big Tech, they offer a viable ecosystem for those seeking to avoid de-platforming. Keywords: [fediverse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fediverse.md), [mastodon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mastodon.md), pixelfed, peertube, [bitchute](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bitchute.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Sargon of Akkad, Patreon Boycott and Financial De-platforming (1:36:47–1:46:54) The de-platforming of British commentator Carl Benjamin (Sargon of Akkad) from Patreon sparked a massive boycott of the service. High-profile users like Dave Rubin and Jordan Peterson criticized Patreon for policing content created outside of its platform. The hosts argue that Patreon is merely a payment processor and that users should move toward independent, decentralized funding models. Keywords: [sargon of akkad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sargon-of-akkad.md), carl benjamin, [patreon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patreon.md), [dave rubin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dave-rubin.md), [jordan peterson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jordan-peterson.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Podcast Industry Evolution, Decentralization vs. Corporate Platforms (1:46:55–1:51:37) A reflective discussion on the 15-year history of podcasting and the failure of the medium to remain decentralized. The hosts express frustration that smart people continue to rely on corporate platforms instead of building core audiences on open-source systems or using cryptocurrency for payments. Keywords: [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [ipod](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipod.md), [open source](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/open-source.md), [crypto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crypto.md), [decentralization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/decentralization.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Jonathan Morgan, Facebook Disinformation and Alabama Election (1:51:37–1:53:16) Facebook suspended Jonathan Morgan, CEO of a social media research firm, following reports that he engaged in a disinformation campaign during the Alabama special election. Ironically, Morgan had previously authored a report used as proof of Russian interference, leading to accusations that he used the same tactics he claimed to be investigating. Keywords: jonathan morgan, [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), alabama election, [disinformation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disinformation.md), [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Youth Social Media Trends, Facebook Privacy Concerns (1:53:17–1:55:41) A USA Today report featuring middle school students highlights the declining popularity of Facebook among younger generations, who prefer Instagram and Snapchat. The children express intuitive concerns about privacy, tracking, and the "creepy" nature of screen recording and constant surveillance by their devices. Keywords: [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [instagram](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/instagram.md), [snapchat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/snapchat.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), screen recording [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Facial Recognition, Amazon Ring and Public Surveillance (1:55:41–1:56:36) The UK government is reportedly testing facial recognition technology in public spaces around Westminster. Simultaneously, Amazon's Ring doorbells are incorporating facial recognition capabilities that can identify individuals on the street, raising concerns about the expansion of the surveillance state into residential neighborhoods. Keywords: [facial recognition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facial-recognition.md), [amazon ring](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon-ring.md), [westminster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/westminster.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [uk government](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uk-government.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Maxine Waters, Congressional Floor Dispute (1:56:38–1:58:53) Representative Maxine Waters engaged in a heated exchange on the House floor with Representative Mike Kelly. Waters expressed offense at Kelly's remarks regarding discrimination and the "Make America Great Again" slogan, refusing to yield her time and accusing the President of dividing the country. Keywords: [maxine waters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maxine-waters.md), [mike kelly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-kelly.md), [house of representatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-representatives.md), [discrimination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/discrimination.md), [trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trump.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Yellow Vest Protests, France and European Expansion (1:58:53–2:03:35) The "Yellow Vest" protests in France have entered their sixth week, spreading from Paris to smaller towns and neighboring countries like Portugal and the Netherlands. Despite media reports suggesting the movement is fading, video evidence shows continued violent confrontations with police. In Portugal, protesters utilized pedestrian crossings to effectively block city traffic. Keywords: [yellow vests](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yellow-vests.md), [gilets jaunes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gilets-jaunes.md), [emmanuel macron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emmanuel-macron.md), [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [portugal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portugal.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Trump and Maddow, Media Supercuts (2:03:37–2:07:40) A series of audio supercuts are played, first featuring Donald Trump claiming "nobody knows more" about various subjects than he does. This is followed by a supercut of Rachel Maddow repeatedly mentioning "Russia" and "Vladimir Putin" during a single broadcast, highlighting the repetitive nature of cable news narratives. Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [supercut](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supercut.md), [media satire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-satire.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Final Donor Credits, Ronald McDonald House and Birthdays (2:07:42–2:13:47) The hosts conclude the show by thanking the remaining donors and acknowledging birthdays. A special mention is made of the Ronald McDonald House charities, clarifying that local chapters must raise their own funds. They reiterate the success of the value-for-value model over the last decade. Keywords: [ronald mcdonald house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronald-mcdonald-house.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [peer review](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peer-review.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Knighthood Ceremony, Greg Davies and David Nixon (2:13:53–2:16:36) A formal knighthood ceremony is conducted for Greg Davies and David Nixon for their significant financial support of the show. They are welcomed to the No Agenda Roundtable and instructed on how to claim their knight rings. The hosts sign off with their traditional holiday greetings. Keywords: [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [greg davies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greg-davies.md), david nixon, [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md), [night rings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/night-rings.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Malcolm Nance, Russian Disinformation Narrative (2:16:37–2:24:40) Malcolm Nance appeared on MSNBC with Brian Williams to discuss a Senate report on Russian "trolls" and disinformation. Nance claimed that Russia has "owned the mindset" of one-third of the U.S. population since 2011 by amplifying racism and far-right conspiracy theories. The hosts criticize the narrative as an insult to the intelligence of American voters. Keywords: [malcolm nance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malcolm-nance.md), [brian williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brian-williams.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [russian disinformation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russian-disinformation.md), [john birch society](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-birch-society.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Luis Gutierrez, Nativity Scene Grandstanding (2:24:41–2:31:28) Representative Luis Gutierrez used a congressional hearing to compare the plight of modern immigrants to the biblical story of Mary and Joseph fleeing to Egypt. Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen responded by defending the administration's adherence to laws passed by Congress and denying a blanket policy of family separation. Keywords: [luis gutierrez](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/luis-gutierrez.md), [kirstjen nielsen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kirstjen-nielsen.md), nativity, [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [family separation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/family-separation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Samantha Vinograd, Border Wall Tunnels and Spook Spotting (2:31:28–2:35:05) CNN analyst Samantha Vinograd, identified by the hosts as a "spook" due to her background with the NSC and Goldman Sachs, argued that a border wall would be ineffective against tunnels. The discussion explores rumors of thousands of existing tunnels under the Texas border and the military's role in monitoring them. Keywords: samantha vinograd, [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [border wall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-wall.md), [tunnels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tunnels.md), [national security council](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security-council.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Elon Musk Tunnels, Anti-Technology Philosophy and Outro (2:35:07–2:44:30) The show wraps up with a discussion on the impracticality of Elon Musk's Los Angeles tunnel project and a reference to Ted Kaczynski's anti-technology writings. The episode concludes with a series of satirical Christmas jingles targeting Antifa and Donald Trump, followed by a final sign-off for the 2018 holiday season. Keywords: [elon musk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elon-musk.md), [ted kaczynski](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-kaczynski.md), [tunnels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tunnels.md), [antifa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antifa.md), christmas jingles [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1097-two-way-sword/chapter/37.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1096-algorithmic-amplification.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1098-climate-grief.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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