# Axe

> A national emergency declaration over border security triggers a constitutional showdown while diplomatic rifts deepen between Italy and France over colonial-era economic controls in Africa.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 1113
- **Published:** 2019-02-17
- **Topics:** [National Emergency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-emergency.md), CFA Franc, [Jussie Smollett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jussie-smollett.md), 5G Surveillance, Axe vs Ask, PetroCaribe, [Experian Boost](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/experian-boost.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe

## About this episode

President Donald Trump declared a national emergency to secure southern border wall funding, invoking US Code titles 10 and 50 to bypass Congressional resistance. The strategy utilizes $8 billion from the Treasury forfeiture fund and military construction budgets, a move House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Public Citizen condemned as an abuse of power. Legal challenges are expected to escalate through the Ninth Circuit as the administration targets 234 miles of new barriers.

In Europe, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio sparked a diplomatic crisis by accusing France of fueling the migrant crisis through the CFA franc currency. Meanwhile, Vice President Mike Pence pressured European allies at the Munich Security Conference to abandon the Iran nuclear deal, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel defended the agreement. Domestic tensions rose as Chicago Police shifted the Jussie Smollett investigation toward a potential hoax involving a $3,500 payment to two brothers. In the corporate sector, General Motors appointed former CIA and Lockheed Martin officials to its board, signaling a deeper merger between the automotive industry and the military-industrial complex.

Linguistic history takes center stage with an exploration of the Old English roots of the word axe, tracing its usage back to Geoffrey Chaucer and the Coverdale Bible. Senator Elizabeth Warren faced a difficult campaign moment when a heckler questioned her heritage claims, while Senator Kamala Harris saw her own lineage scrutinized following her father’s essay on their Jamaican slave-owning ancestors. The program concludes with a knighting ceremony for Sir Dorian Mode and a tracking update on the No Agenda geocoin as it nears the Venezuelan coast.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/transcript.md.

### 1. Epson Printer Settings, A4 Paper, Metric System Resistance (0:00–3:23)

A technical issue with an Epson printer cutting off text leads to a discovery that the device was defaulted to European A4 paper settings. This prompts a discussion on the failed 1960s and 1970s initiatives to convert the United States to the metric system. The use of A4 paper is characterized as an early globalist move that failed to gain traction in American offices.

Keywords: epson, [a4 paper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/a4-paper.md), [metric system](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metric-system.md), [globalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/globalism.md), [infoworld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infoworld.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Donald Trump, Brexit Trade Agreement, UK Relations (3:24–5:43)

President Donald Trump delivered a speech in the Rose Garden addressing the future of trade between the United States and the United Kingdom post-Brexit. Trump emphasized a commitment to preserving and substantially increasing the trading relationship as the UK navigates its exit from the European Union. Current deliberations in the Brexit process are described as stagnant and lacking clear updates.

Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [brexit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brexit.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [trade agreement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trade-agreement.md), [rose garden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rose-garden.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/2.md)

### 3. France, Italy Diplomatic Dispute, African Colonial Currency (5:44–13:17)

Italy and France engaged in a significant diplomatic dispute after Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio accused France of fueling the migrant crisis through economic control of former African colonies. The conflict centers on the CFA franc, a currency controlled by the French central bank used by 14 African nations. Critics argue this arrangement prevents economic development in West Africa, while French companies benefit from stable market access and fixed exchange rates.

Keywords: [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [italy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/italy.md), cfa franc, luigi di maio, [west africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/west-africa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/3.md)

### 4. National Emergency Declaration, Border Wall Funding, Legal Strategy (13:19–17:23)

President Donald Trump declared a national emergency to secure funding for a southern border wall, utilizing US Code titles 10 and 50. The strategy involves using previously approved funds that do not require an emergency declaration while simultaneously invoking the National Emergencies Act for additional billions. This move is expected to face immediate legal challenges in the Ninth Circuit before potentially reaching the Supreme Court.

Keywords: [national emergency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-emergency.md), [border wall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-wall.md), [ninth circuit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ninth-circuit.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Presidential Norms, Washington Post, Executive Power (17:24–20:34)

Journalist Karen Tumulty argued on NPR that the primary checks on presidential power are established norms rather than strictly codified laws. The discussion highlights a perceived shift in how executive power is exercised under the Trump administration, specifically regarding international treaties and alliances like NATO. Critics suggest that the reliance on political tradition to prevent overreach is insufficient when a president disregards established precedents.

Keywords: [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md), karen tumulty, presidential norms, executive overreach, [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Historical National Emergencies, H1N1 Pandemic, Foreign Policy (20:37–26:12)

A review of historical national emergency declarations reveals that many remain in effect for decades, often targeting foreign entities in countries like North Korea, Syria, and Lebanon. President Barack Obama declared a national emergency in 2009 regarding the H1N1 influenza pandemic, as well as various orders blocking property of transnational criminal organizations. Most previous emergencies have focused on international sanctions rather than domestic border infrastructure.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), national emergencies act, [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [venezuela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venezuela.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Jim Acosta, Angel Moms, Border Crime Statistics (26:12–28:21)

CNN reporter Jim Acosta challenged President Trump during a press conference regarding the necessity of a border wall, citing statistics that suggest crime rates are lower among immigrants than native-born citizens. Trump responded by asking "Angel Moms"—parents whose children were killed by undocumented immigrants—to stand up in the audience. The exchange is characterized as a highly emotional and polarized confrontation over the human cost of illegal immigration.

Keywords: [jim acosta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jim-acosta.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), angel moms, [border security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-security.md), [crime rates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crime-rates.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/7.md)

### 8. MSNBC Fact-Check, Texas Immigration Crime Data (28:22–29:58)

MSNBC reporter Julia Ainsley provided a fact-check on immigration crime statistics, noting that data from Texas indicates non-U.S. citizens commit more crimes than citizens in certain categories. Texas is highlighted as one of the few states that specifically tracks the immigration status of offenders. This data contradicts common media narratives regarding the relative safety of immigrant populations compared to the general public.

Keywords: [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [department of homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-homeland-security.md), [crime statistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crime-statistics.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Nancy Pelosi, Public Citizen, Border Wall Legal Challenges (29:58–35:23)

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the nonprofit group Public Citizen condemned President Trump's national emergency declaration as an "outrageous abuse of power." Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell indicated his support for the move despite previous warnings that it could split the Republican Party. Legal challenges are being prepared to contest the president's authority to move funds that were not specifically appropriated by Congress for a "racist wall."

Keywords: [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), [public citizen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/public-citizen.md), [border wall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-wall.md), appropriations

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Bob Menendez, DUI Criminality, ICE Bed Caps (35:23–36:40)

Senator Bob Menendez criticized the Trump administration's "zero tolerance" policy, arguing that it turns individuals with minor infractions into criminals. Menendez specifically cited cases where undocumented immigrants with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) violations are classified as criminals to justify detention. He argued that these enforcement standards deviate from the norms established during the Obama administration.

Keywords: [bob menendez](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-menendez.md), [ice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ice.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [dui](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dui.md), [zero tolerance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zero-tolerance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Yamiche Alcindor, Military Construction Funds, Border Wall Budget (36:46–39:20)

PBS NewsHour reporter Yamiche Alcindor detailed the specific sources of the $8 billion President Trump intends to use for the southern border wall. The funding includes $1.375 billion from a congressional deal, $600 million from the Treasury forfeiture fund, $2.5 billion from DoD counter-drug activities, and $3.6 billion from military construction budgets. The White House indicated this funding is intended for an initial 234 miles of barrier.

Keywords: [yamiche alcindor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yamiche-alcindor.md), [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [department of defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-defense.md), [treasury department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treasury-department.md), [border wall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-wall.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Linguistic Evolution, Axe vs Ask, Old English Roots (39:20–45:38)

An NPR report explores the historical and linguistic roots of the word "axe" as a substitute for "ask." Linguists explain that "axe" derives from the Old English verb "axion" and was used by Geoffrey Chaucer and in the Coverdale Bible. The discussion covers "code-switching," where speakers alternate between pronunciations based on social settings, and the stigma often associated with the vernacular in modern professional environments.

Keywords: [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [chaucer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chaucer.md), old english, [linguistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linguistics.md), [code switching](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/code-switching.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Kamala Harris, Heritage Debate, Don Lemon (45:39–46:59)

Don Lemon and April Ryan engaged in a debate regarding the heritage of Senator Kamala Harris and whether she identifies as African-American. Harris was born in the United States to a father from Jamaica and a mother from India, and she spent part of her youth in Canada. The discussion centers on the definition of "African-American" and the history of the African diaspora in the Caribbean.

Keywords: [kamala harris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kamala-harris.md), [don lemon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/don-lemon.md), [april ryan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/april-ryan.md), [jamaica](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamaica.md), [india](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/india.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Donald J. Harris, Slave Ownership History, Brownstown Jamaica (47:00–51:29)

Donald J. Harris, the father of Senator Kamala Harris, published an essay titled "Reflections of a Jamaican Father" detailing his family history. In the text, he identifies his paternal grandmother, Miss Chrissy, as a descendant of Hamilton Brown, a notorious plantation and slave owner who founded Brownstown, Jamaica. This revelation links the presidential candidate's lineage directly to Caribbean slaveholders.

Keywords: donald j harris, [kamala harris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kamala-harris.md), hamilton brown, [jamaica](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamaica.md), slave owners

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Elizabeth Warren, Stump Speech Heckler, Presidential Campaign (51:29–54:24)

Senator Elizabeth Warren faced a heckler during a campaign event who questioned her past claims of Cherokee heritage. Warren's response, which involved telling the audience to "be easy" and attempting to maintain a classroom-like atmosphere, was criticized as being tone-deaf. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges Warren faces regarding her ancestry claims as she campaigns for the 2020 Democratic nomination.

Keywords: [elizabeth warren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-warren.md), [cherokee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cherokee.md), [stump speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stump-speech.md), [2020 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2020-election.md), campaign gaffes

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Haiti Civil Unrest, PetroCaribe Corruption, Clinton Foundation (54:28–1:03:22)

Haiti is experiencing widespread street violence and protests demanding the ouster of President Jovenel Moïse over soaring inflation and government corruption. Protesters are specifically targeting the PetroCaribe program, a discounted oil deal with Venezuela, alleging that billions in savings intended for social programs were embezzled. The situation draws comparisons to the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake and the controversial role of the Clinton Foundation in reconstruction efforts.

Keywords: [haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haiti.md), petrocaribe, [clinton foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-foundation.md), [jovenel moise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jovenel-moise.md), [venezuela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venezuela.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/16.md)

### 17. No Agenda Art, Darren O'Neill, Value for Value (1:03:26–1:05:01)

The hosts acknowledge Darren O'Neill for providing the artwork for episode 1112, titled "El Valvador." The artwork, which featured a Valentine's Day theme, is part of the show's "value for value" model where listeners contribute creative assets. Listeners are encouraged to visit the No Agenda Art Generator to view and submit work.

Keywords: [darren o'neill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/darren-o-neill.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [podcast art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-art.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), el valvador

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Executive Producer Credits, Donations, Knighting Ceremony (1:05:02–1:23:49)

The hosts read a list of executive and associate executive producers who contributed to the show through the "218 special" and other donation tiers. The segment includes "de-douching" rituals for first-time donors, personal notes from listeners, and the promotion of several individuals to the No Agenda Roundtable. The "value for value" network is credited as the sole funding source for the program.

Keywords: [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [de-douching](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/de-douching.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Geocoin Tracking, Global Travel, Geocaching (1:23:49–1:25:16)

A "No Agenda" geocoin has reportedly traveled over 100,000 miles, moving through South America, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and Scandinavia. The coin was recently tracked to the coast of Venezuela. Listeners are encouraged to follow the coin's progress on geocaching.com as it is passed between different individuals globally.

Keywords: [geocaching](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geocaching.md), geocoin, [venezuela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venezuela.md), [scandinavia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scandinavia.md), [tracking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tracking.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/19.md)

### 20. 5G Technology, Smart Cities, Qualcomm Native Advertising (1:25:17–1:32:47)

The Hill published a series of native advertising videos sponsored by Qualcomm promoting 5G technology and "smart cities." In one video, the Mayor of Pittsburgh discusses using 5G for data mining to solve urban problems, which critics argue is a euphemism for increased government and corporate surveillance. The promotional content is characterized as a "system of systems" designed to harvest data for profit under the guise of public benefit.

Keywords: [5g](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/5g.md), [qualcomm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/qualcomm.md), [the hill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-hill.md), [smart cities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-cities.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Sarah Lacy, 5G Promotion, Tech Journalism Ethics (1:32:47–1:38:27)

Former Pando Daily founder Sarah Lacy appeared in promotional videos for 5G technology, a move criticized as a compromise of journalistic credibility. The videos suggest that 5G will revolutionize virtual reality and sports broadcasting, though critics argue these claims are exaggerated. The segment explores the trend of tech journalists transitioning into paid promotional roles for major telecommunications companies.

Keywords: [sarah lacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarah-lacy.md), pando daily, [5g](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/5g.md), [native advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-advertising.md), [tech journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tech-journalism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Military Spending, Economic Growth, National Debt (1:38:28–1:42:59)

President Donald Trump argued that increasing military spending is a prerequisite for addressing the $22 trillion national debt, suggesting that a strong military prevents larger economic disasters. Trump claimed that economic growth, spurred by military investment and trade deficit reductions, will eventually stabilize the country's finances. Critics compare this approach to a "war economy" where manufacturing is driven by defense needs.

Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [national debt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-debt.md), [military spending](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-spending.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [economic growth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-growth.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Theodore McCarrick, Vatican Defrocking, Sex Abuse Scandal (1:43:00–1:47:06)

Pope Francis officially defrocked former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick after an internal investigation found him guilty of sexual crimes involving minors and adults. McCarrick is the highest-ranking Catholic official to be removed from the priesthood in modern history. The Vatican is scheduled to hold a global summit to address the ongoing sexual abuse crisis within the church.

Keywords: theodore mccarrick, [pope francis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pope-francis.md), [vatican](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vatican.md), [catholic church](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/catholic-church.md), [sex abuse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sex-abuse.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Animal Abuse, Bird Scooters, Ring Doorbell Surveillance (1:47:06–1:50:24)

A woman in Bakersfield, California, was charged with felony animal abuse after Ring doorbell footage showed her dragging a dog behind an electric Bird scooter. The suspect, a contracted psychologist at a state prison, had her contract terminated after the video went viral. The incident highlights the growing role of private home surveillance networks, such as Amazon's Ring, in providing evidence for criminal investigations.

Keywords: [bird scooters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bird-scooters.md), animal abuse, [ring doorbell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ring-doorbell.md), [amazon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon.md), [bakersfield](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bakersfield.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/24.md)

### 25. FICO Scores, Experian Boost, Credit Surveillance (1:50:25–1:57:57)

Experian launched a new program called "Experian Boost" that allows consumers to raise their credit scores by granting the company access to their bank accounts and utility payment history. Critics argue this is a form of "sanctioned slavery" and financial surveillance, similar to the Chinese social credit system. The discussion includes a personal anecdote about a host's struggle with an IRS lien and the difficulty of rebuilding credit in the modern financial system.

Keywords: [experian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/experian.md), [fico score](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fico-score.md), [credit rating](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-rating.md), [irs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irs.md), [financial surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-surveillance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Knighting Ceremony, Donation Notes, Health Karma (1:57:58–2:12:09)

The hosts conduct a formal knighting ceremony for several high-tier donors, including Sir Dorian Mode and Sir How Now Browncow. The segment features detailed donation notes, requests for "health karma," and shout-outs to family members. The hosts also address "make-goods" for donors whose names were missed in previous episodes.

Keywords: [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [roundtable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roundtable.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Birthday Shout-outs, Simultaneous Meetups, San Francisco RSA (2:12:32–2:16:00)

The show concludes with a list of listener birthdays and a discussion regarding a proposed simultaneous meetup in San Francisco during the RSA Conference. The hosts express a preference for focusing on the upcoming Austin, Texas meetup, discouraging "California horning in" on the Texas event's glory.

Keywords: [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [meetups](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetups.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [rsa conference](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rsa-conference.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Pete Buttigieg, 2020 Candidacy, Climate Security (2:16:01–2:24:23)

South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg appeared on PBS NewsHour to discuss his 2020 presidential exploratory committee, focusing on his identity as a millennial and his concerns regarding "climate security." Buttigieg argued that climate change represents a national emergency on par with a world war or the Great Depression. The segment also features a clip of an 11-year-old girl at a climate rally, which the hosts characterize as emotional manipulation.

Keywords: [pete buttigieg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pete-buttigieg.md), [2020 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2020-election.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [green new deal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-new-deal.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Venezuela Aid Standoff, Juan Guaidó, Iran Connection (2:24:24–2:29:15)

The United States began airlifting food and medicine to the Colombian border as Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro continues to block international aid. Opposition leader Juan Guaidó has called for volunteers to help bring the supplies into the country. Analysts discuss potential links between Venezuela, Iran, and Hezbollah, suggesting that a decade-old geopolitical "playbook" is being reused to justify intervention.

Keywords: [venezuela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venezuela.md), [juan guaidó](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/juan-guaido.md), [nicolás maduro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nicolas-maduro.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [hezbollah](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hezbollah.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Mike Pence, Munich Security Conference, Iran Sanctions (2:29:15–2:30:56)

Vice President Mike Pence called on European partners to stop undermining U.S. sanctions against Iran during the Munich Security Conference. German Chancellor Angela Merkel defended the 2015 nuclear agreement as a necessary tool for maintaining pressure on the regime. The dispute highlights a growing rift between the U.S. and the EU regarding Middle East policy and international payment systems.

Keywords: [mike pence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-pence.md), [munich security conference](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/munich-security-conference.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [sanctions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanctions.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Yellow Vest Protests, France, Media Propaganda (2:30:56–2:32:23)

The "Gilets Jaunes" or Yellow Vest protests in France have entered their third month, with demonstrators continuing to rally against President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies. While government estimates suggest participation is dwindling, organizers claim over 100,000 people remain active. Protesters have accused the French media of ignoring police violence and suppressing the movement's message.

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), [police violence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/police-violence.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/31.md)

### 32. General Motors Board, CIA Spooks, Corporate Governance (2:32:25–2:34:58)

General Motors has appointed several high-profile former intelligence and defense officials to its board of directors, including a former deputy director of the CIA and executives from Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. The company claims these appointments provide necessary guidance for navigating cyber attacks and geopolitical instability. Critics suggest the board's composition reflects a deep integration between the automotive industry and the military-industrial complex.

Keywords: [general motors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/general-motors.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [lockheed martin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lockheed-martin.md), [northrop grumman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northrop-grumman.md), [corporate boards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporate-boards.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Jussie Smollett, Hoax Investigation, Chicago Police (2:34:59–2:40:31)

Chicago Police shifted the trajectory of their investigation into the alleged attack on actor Jussie Smollett after two brothers claimed Smollett paid them $3,500 to orchestrate the event. The brothers reportedly purchased the rope used in the incident at a hardware store and were promised additional payment upon their return from Nigeria. The hosts reflect on their initial skepticism of the story, citing the extreme weather conditions in Chicago at the time of the reported assault.

Keywords: [jussie smollett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jussie-smollett.md), [chicago police](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago-police.md), [hoax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hoax.md), [empire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/empire.md), maga hats

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1113-axe/chapter/33.md)

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