# Eggsistenial > Democratic primary tensions boil over as Michael Bloomberg enters the fray, while high-profile presidential pardons reignite scrutiny of the Chicago political machine and the administrative state. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 1218 - **Published:** 2020-02-23 - **Length:** 2h 52m - **Topics:** [Bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bloomberg.md), Blagojevich, EV Infrastructure, [Diamond Princess](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diamond-princess.md), [Stacey Abrams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stacey-abrams.md), New Deal, [Nevada Caucus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada-caucus.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial ## About this episode Michael Bloomberg faced a brutal debut on the Democratic debate stage as Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders attacked his record on non-disclosure agreements and past praise for Donald Trump. While Bloomberg struggled to defend his corporate history, the debate highlighted a growing rift over the party's direction and the influence of billionaire spending in the primary process. Internal party tensions flared as NBC News allegedly scrubbed footage of candidates rejecting a delegate plurality in favor of a brokered convention. Joe Biden proposed a trillion-dollar climate plan focused on high-speed rail and 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations, while critics warned of a two-percent GDP loss due to charging inefficiencies. In the legal sphere, President Trump issued high-profile pardons for Rod Blagojevich and Mike Milken, a move interpreted as a direct challenge to the Chicago political establishment and the legacy of Barack Obama. Meanwhile, Attorney General William Barr faced a resignation demand from 2,000 former DOJ officials following his intervention in the Roger Stone sentencing. Abroad, the Diamond Princess cruise ship evacuation brought fourteen infected passengers to U.S. soil as the Tokyo Marathon restricted its field due to mounting coronavirus fears. Stacey Abrams utilized an appearance on The View to openly lobby for the Vice Presidential slot, framing her ambition as a matter of representation. In a bizarre turn of events, Colorado Springs authorities arrested former mayoral candidate Juliette Parker for allegedly using tainted cupcakes in a kidnapping plot. The episode also tracks the upgrade of the No Agenda Art Generator by Sir Paul Couture and the rise of Earl Baron Walkman within the value-for-value peerage. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/transcript.md. ### 1. Weather Disparities, California Drought and Texas Rain (0:00–1:27) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the program from Austin, Texas, and Northern Silicon Valley. They contrast the non-stop rain in Texas with the returning drought conditions in California. Dvorak notes that while less rain reduces plant growth and fire fuel, water utility bills continue to rise in his region. Keywords: [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [drought](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drought.md), [weather](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weather.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Michael Bloomberg, Democratic Debate Performance and NDA Controversy (1:28–9:31) Michael Bloomberg faced heavy criticism during his first Democratic primary debate, particularly from Elizabeth Warren regarding non-disclosure agreements. Analysis suggests Bloomberg lacked proper coaching and failed to use "jujitsu" rhetorical moves to reframe NDAs as standard corporate non-disparagement agreements. The discussion highlights his inability to handle aggressive questioning about his past comments and corporate record. Keywords: [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), [elizabeth warren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-warren.md), [nda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nda.md), [democratic debate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-debate.md), [non-disclosure agreements](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/non-disclosure-agreements.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Bloomberg Past Comments, The View Appearance and Trump Support (9:31–13:09) Elizabeth Warren attacked Michael Bloomberg for past derogatory comments about women, which he failed to effectively retort. Historical footage from 2011 and an appearance on The View show Bloomberg previously praising Donald Trump as a "great guy." Bloomberg's past stance emphasized supporting whoever wins the presidency to ensure the country functions, contrasting with his current campaign rhetoric. Keywords: [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [the view](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-view.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Amazon Federal Income Tax, R&D Credits and Corporate Profits (13:10–15:40) Politicians frequently criticize Amazon for paying zero federal income tax despite billions in profit. This financial outcome is attributed to the company plowing profits back into research and development, which is a deductible cost under U.S. tax law. These investments funded the creation of Alexa, Ring doorbells, and Amazon Web Services, which now powers a significant portion of the internet. Keywords: [amazon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon.md), [jeff bezos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeff-bezos.md), federal income tax, research and development, [alexa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alexa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Bernie Sanders, Millionaire Status and Multiple Houses (15:41–16:20) Michael Bloomberg challenged Bernie Sanders during the debate regarding his status as a millionaire with three houses. Sanders defended his property ownership, citing his work in Washington and a summer camp in Vermont. Bloomberg countered by emphasizing that he pays his taxes in New York City rather than utilizing offshore tax havens. Keywords: [bernie sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-sanders.md), [democratic socialism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-socialism.md), [vermont](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vermont.md), [millionaires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millionaires.md), [tax havens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-havens.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Joe Biden, Climate Change Jobs and Corporate Accountability (16:33–20:52) Joe Biden promised high-paying union jobs at $50 per hour through a trillion-dollar infrastructure and climate program. He argued that minority communities are disproportionately affected by pollution and groundwater contamination. Biden also called for holding CEOs and stockholders personally accountable for environmental damage, comparing the situation to litigation against tobacco and drug companies. Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), [unions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unions.md), [pharmaceutical companies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-companies.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/6.md) ### 7. High-Speed Rail, Solar Energy and Nevada Infrastructure (20:53–24:06) Joe Biden advocated for high-speed rail and massive investments in the electrical grid to transmit wind and solar energy. He proposed building 500,000 new electric vehicle charging stations across the United States. Critics point to the California high-speed rail project as a massive failure and express skepticism about the efficiency of charging infrastructure compared to traditional gasoline. Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [high-speed rail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-speed-rail.md), [las vegas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/las-vegas.md), [solar panels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solar-panels.md), california rail [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Electric Vehicle Charging, GDP Impact and Range Anxiety (24:07–27:42) The logistics of a mass transition to electric vehicles raise concerns about time-wasting at charging stations. While Tesla Superchargers take approximately 45 minutes, traditional gasoline refueling takes five minutes, leading to predictions of massive queues during peak travel times. Some argue this inefficiency could lower national GDP by two percentage points due to lost productivity. Keywords: [tesla](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesla.md), [electric vehicles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-vehicles.md), [charging stations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charging-stations.md), [gdp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gdp.md), [supercharger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supercharger.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Bernie Sanders, Existential Threat and Age Rhetoric (27:43–28:37) Bernie Sanders repeatedly characterized climate change as an "existential threat" during the Nevada debate. Observers noted the irony of elderly politicians making long-term environmental promises they will not live to see fulfilled. The segment mocks the repetitive use of the word "existential" by candidates who are nearly 80 years old. Keywords: [bernie sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-sanders.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [existential threat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/existential-threat.md), [age](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/age.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/9.md) ### 10. NBC News, Debate Clip Removal and Convention Rules (28:38–34:12) NBC News allegedly omitted a crucial segment from its online debate archives where candidates were asked if the person with the most delegates should automatically be the nominee. Every candidate except Bernie Sanders answered "no," favoring the established convention process over a simple plurality. This omission is viewed as an attempt to avoid upsetting Sanders' supporters who fear a rigged convention. Keywords: [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md), [democratic national convention](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-national-convention.md), [delegates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delegates.md), [bernie sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-sanders.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Kshama Sawant, Socialist Alternative and Bernie Bros (34:13–37:16) Seattle Councilmember Kshama Sawant delivered a fiery introduction for Bernie Sanders at a rally, calling for a powerful socialist movement to end capitalist oppression. She urged the "Socialist Alternative" organization to have Sanders' back in Milwaukee to prevent the elite from rigging the primary. Critics link this rhetoric to aggressive "Bernie Bros" and threats of unrest if Sanders is denied the nomination. Keywords: [kshama sawant](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kshama-sawant.md), [bernie sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-sanders.md), socialist alternative, [milwaukee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/milwaukee.md), [project veritas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/project-veritas.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Pete Buttigieg, Denmark and Stop and Frisk Policies (37:16–39:13) Pete Buttigieg claimed that Denmark is now the best place to achieve the "American Dream" of upward mobility. However, critics point out that Denmark allows police to stop and search citizens without cause in specific zones to combat gang warfare and terrorism. This creates a contradiction for American progressives who praise Danish social systems while condemning similar "stop and frisk" tactics in the U.S. Keywords: [pete buttigieg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pete-buttigieg.md), [denmark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/denmark.md), [american dream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-dream.md), [stop and frisk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stop-and-frisk.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Michael Moore, Bloomberg Terrorist Claim and Tainted Cupcakes (39:13–41:01) Filmmaker Michael Moore labeled Michael Bloomberg a "terrorist" on his podcast, a statement highlighted for its extreme rhetoric. This is juxtaposed with a bizarre news story about a woman in Washington state who allegedly drugged a mother with a tainted cupcake to steal her newborn. The hosts debate which audio clip is more suitable for the end-of-show sign-off. Keywords: [michael moore](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-moore.md), [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md), [cupcakes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cupcakes.md), [humor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humor.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Bloomberg Campaign Spending, Media Ad Buys and CNN (41:01–47:05) Michael Bloomberg has spent over $380 million on advertising to bypass traditional retail politics, drawing criticism from rivals like Bernie Sanders. Despite the heavy spending, major networks like CNN and MSNBC have been critical of his debate performance. There is speculation that the networks' hostility stems from Bloomberg's strategy of buying local airtime rather than expensive national network slots. Keywords: [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [super tuesday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/super-tuesday.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Tom Steyer, Reparations Commission and Alveda King (47:07–49:29) Tom Steyer positioned himself as the only candidate supporting reparations for the descendants of slavery, proposing a formal commission on race. Meanwhile, Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., appeared on Fox & Friends to defend Donald Trump's record. She argued that African American families are seeing gains in wages and benefits under the current administration. Keywords: [tom steyer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-steyer.md), [reparations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reparations.md), alveda king, [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [black voters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-voters.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Stacey Abrams, Vice Presidential Ambitions and The View (49:29–52:05) Stacey Abrams appeared on The View to explicitly state her interest in serving as Vice President for the eventual Democratic nominee. She framed her ambition as a responsibility to women of color and children, rejecting the idea that seeking power is negative. Observers compare her media strategy to the pressure campaigns previously seen with Hillary Clinton. Keywords: [stacey abrams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stacey-abrams.md), [the view](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-view.md), [vice president](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-president.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [georgia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/georgia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Pete Buttigieg, Rehearsed Answers and Bill Maher Question (52:06–54:39) Amy Klobuchar criticized Pete Buttigieg for having overly rehearsed "comeback lines" during the debates. Buttigieg recently addressed the "Bill Maher question" regarding what he would do if Donald Trump refused to leave office after a loss, offering a humorous response about moving in furniture. His polished performance is contrasted with Bloomberg's lack of debate preparation. Keywords: [pete buttigieg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pete-buttigieg.md), [amy klobuchar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-klobuchar.md), [bill maher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-maher.md), [nevada caucus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada-caucus.md), [debate prep](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debate-prep.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Nevada Caucus, Google Forms and Smoke-Filled Rooms (54:40–1:01:01) Following the Iowa caucus disaster, Nevada Democrats announced they would use a "tool" based on Google Forms preloaded on iPads to tally results. Critics argue that using a consumer-grade Google product for election results is insecure and prone to failure. The discussion traces the history of the Democratic party from "smoke-filled rooms" to the current complex caucus and primary systems. Keywords: [nevada caucus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada-caucus.md), google forms, [iowa caucus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iowa-caucus.md), [democratic party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-party.md), [election security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-security.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/18.md) ### 19. No Agenda Art Generator, Sir Paul Couture and Metadata (1:01:01–1:05:35) Sir Paul Couture is working to fix and upgrade the No Agenda Art Generator, a resource containing over 15,000 submissions. The upgrades include moving the library to a CDN for better performance and creating weekly backups with scrubbed user info. The repository will be made public on Git to allow other developers to contribute to the codebase. Keywords: [art generator](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/art-generator.md), [paul couture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-couture.md), [cdn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdn.md), [git](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/git.md), [podcast art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-art.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Value for Value, Peerage Honors and Producer Donations (1:05:37–1:32:10) The program acknowledges various high-value donors under the "Value for Value" model. Notable contributions include Sir Otaku seeking barbecue karma, Baron Walkman ascending to Earl of Ohio, and Eric Svensson seeking job karma in Los Angeles. The hosts discuss the merits of Texas brisket, the "fisting nuts" meme, and the PechaKucha global presentation format. Keywords: [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [brisket](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brisket.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Presidential Pardons, Rod Blagojevich and Mike Milken (1:32:13–1:37:46) President Trump issued a series of high-profile pardons and commutations for figures including Rod Blagojevich, Bernie Kerik, and Mike Milken. While the media focused on these "political allies," the administration also granted clemency to several women serving time for non-violent drug offenses. The move to commute Blagojevich's sentence is interpreted as a strategic strike against the Chicago political establishment. Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [rod blagojevich](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-blagojevich.md), mike milken, bernie kerik, [clemency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clemency.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Chicago Politics, Barack Obama and the Blagojevich Wiretaps (1:37:47–1:45:34) The commutation of Rod Blagojevich's sentence brings renewed scrutiny to how Barack Obama secured his U.S. Senate seat. The narrative involves political consultant David Axelrod, the leaking of sealed divorce papers of Obama's opponents, and the corruption trial of fundraiser Tony Rezko. There is speculation that Blagojevich may now reveal details regarding Obama's involvement in Chicago's "pay-to-play" culture. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [rod blagojevich](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-blagojevich.md), tony rezko, [david axelrod](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-axelrod.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/22.md) ### 23. FDR, The New Deal and the Administrative State (1:45:35–1:47:11) The origins of the modern "administrative state" or "deep state" are traced back to Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs. These programs allowed the federal government to distribute funds to political allies, a practice continued by LBJ with companies like Brown and Root (now Halliburton). This bureaucracy is seen as the foundation for modern intelligence and security agencies. Keywords: [fdr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdr.md), [lbj](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lbj.md), [halliburton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/halliburton.md), [deep state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deep-state.md), [administrative state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/administrative-state.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/23.md) ### 24. William Barr, DOJ Resignation Letter and Mailing Lists (1:47:11–1:51:29) Over 2,000 former Department of Justice officials signed a letter calling for Attorney General William Barr's resignation following his intervention in the Roger Stone sentencing. Investigation into the list suggests it is a recurring group of Democratic-leaning former officials who previously called for Trump's impeachment. The letter is characterized as a partisan "mailing list" rather than a spontaneous professional outcry. Keywords: [william barr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/william-barr.md), [doj](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doj.md), [roger stone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roger-stone.md), [medium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medium.md), never trumpers [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Alan Dershowitz, George Soros and FBI Investigations (1:51:30–1:54:16) Constitutional lawyer Alan Dershowitz claimed that Barack Obama personally asked the FBI to investigate an individual on behalf of George Soros. Dershowitz stated he possesses a "302 form" documenting this request and intends to disclose it in a future lawsuit. He argued that presidential influence over the Justice Department is common throughout U.S. history, citing Thomas Jefferson and JFK. Keywords: [alan dershowitz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alan-dershowitz.md), [george soros](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-soros.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), 302 form [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/25.md) ### 26. John Bolton, Manuscript Leaks and Book Promotion (1:54:16–1:56:54) John Bolton spoke publicly for the first time since the impeachment trial, referencing his unpublished manuscript and "Chapter 14." Critics argue Bolton is "punking" the media to drive book sales rather than providing substantive testimony. His refusal to speak during the trial while teasing details for his upcoming release is seen as a calculated financial move. Keywords: [john bolton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-bolton.md), [impeachment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/impeachment.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), manuscript, [book deal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/book-deal.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/26.md) ### 27. ABC Nightly News, Native Advertising and President's Day Deals (1:56:55–2:00:04) ABC Nightly News aired a 60-second segment by Rebecca Jarvis that functioned as a "native ad" for multiple retailers. The segment promoted President's Day sales at Lowe's, Home Depot, Best Buy, and J. Crew, while also encouraging the use of apps like Honey and Rakuten. This practice of blending commercial promotions with nightly news broadcasts is criticized as deceptive. Keywords: [abc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abc-news.md), [rebecca jarvis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rebecca-jarvis.md), [native advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-advertising.md), [lowe's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lowe-s.md), rakuten [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Associate Executive Producers, Nuclear Skepticism and Peerage (2:00:05–2:09:28) The show credits associate executive producers, including "Fakeologist," who posits that nuclear science and weapons are a worldwide fraud. This is contrasted with a donation from "Atomic Rod" Adams, a pro-nuclear expert. The segment concludes with the "damning" of Kate as Dame of the Waxing Moon and the promotion of Baron Walkman to Earl of Ohio. Keywords: [fakeologist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fakeologist.md), [nuclear energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-energy.md), [rod adams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-adams.md), [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md), dame of the waxing moon [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/28.md) ### 29. No Agenda Meetups, Global Gatherings and Troll Moots (2:09:33–2:14:03) A schedule of upcoming No Agenda producer meetups is announced, covering locations from Kitchener, Ontario to Delray Beach, Florida. Other gatherings are planned for London, Missoula, and Nuremberg. These events allow listeners to discuss the show's deconstructions in person, with a "Troll Moot" specifically scheduled for the San Francisco Bay Area. Keywords: [meetups](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetups.md), [kitchener](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kitchener.md), [delray beach](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delray-beach.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [missoula](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/missoula.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Afghanistan Election, Parallel Governments and Defense Cuts (2:14:05–2:16:30) Ashraf Ghani was declared the winner of the Afghan presidential election, but his opponent, Abdullah Abdullah, has vowed to form a parallel government. This political chaos occurs as the U.S. negotiates a peace plan with the Taliban. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has proposed significant budget cuts for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, shifting focus toward "Space Force" technologies. Keywords: [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [ashraf ghani](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ashraf-ghani.md), [abdullah abdullah](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abdullah-abdullah.md), [taliban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taliban.md), [space force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/space-force.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Cameroon Massacre, Brexit Negotiations and Elgin Marbles (2:16:33–2:19:42) A massacre in Cameroon left 22 people dead, including 14 children, amid a conflict between the army and Anglophone separatists. In Europe, Brexit negotiations remain tense, with the EU reportedly pressuring the UK to return the Elgin Marbles to Greece as part of a trade deal. The marbles, also known as the Parthenon Marbles, have been a point of contention at the British Museum for decades. Keywords: [cameroon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cameroon.md), [brexit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brexit.md), elgin marbles, parthenon, [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Coronavirus Evacuations, Diamond Princess and Fatality Statistics (2:19:44–2:26:16) Americans evacuated from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan arrived at bases in Nebraska, Texas, and California. Fourteen passengers tested positive for the virus during the evacuation process and were placed in isolation. Statistical analysis of the outbreak suggests the fatality rate is significantly higher for individuals over 80 and those with pre-existing cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. Keywords: [coronavirus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coronavirus.md), [diamond princess](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diamond-princess.md), [omaha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/omaha.md), travis afb, [fatality rate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fatality-rate.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Tokyo Marathon, Elderberry Shortages and Russian Remedies (2:26:16–2:29:19) The Tokyo Marathon has been restricted to elite athletes only, and Prada has canceled fashion shows due to coronavirus fears. In the U.S., pharmacists report a surge in younger customers seeking flu shots and elderberry supplements out of panic. The segment notes that Russian traditional medicine emphasizes elderberry and "chokeberry" syrups for their purported antiviral properties. Keywords: tokyo marathon, [prada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prada.md), elderberry, chokeberry, [flu shots](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flu-shots.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Harry Dunn, Diplomatic Immunity and Spook Allegations (2:29:23–2:32:17) The death of British teenager Harry Dunn, killed by the wife of a U.S. diplomat driving on the wrong side of the road, has sparked an international incident. Anne Sacoolas claimed diplomatic immunity and fled to the U.S., leading to allegations that she and her husband were intelligence "spooks" stationed at a UK listening base. President Trump's attempt to facilitate a meeting between the families at the White House was rejected by Dunn's parents. Keywords: harry dunn, anne sacoolas, [diplomatic immunity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diplomatic-immunity.md), [uk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uk.md), [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Missing Saudi Students, Criminal Charges and FBI Assistance (2:32:18–2:35:43) An investigation by The Oregonian revealed that dozens of Saudi Arabian students facing serious criminal charges, including rape and manslaughter, have disappeared from the U.S. over the last 30 years. It is suspected that the Saudi government assists these nationals in fleeing the country before trial. This pattern draws comparisons to the evacuation of the Bin Laden family from the U.S. immediately following the September 11 attacks. Keywords: [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md), [rape](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rape.md), [kidnapping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kidnapping.md), [bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bin-laden.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Juliette Parker, Tainted Cupcake Kidnapping and Colorado Springs (2:35:44–2:36:33) Juliette Parker, a former mayoral candidate in Colorado Springs, was accused of posing as a newborn photographer to drug a mother and steal her baby. Authorities allege she used a "tainted cupcake" to incapacitate the victim during a photo shoot. Since her arrest, multiple other women have come forward claiming they were targeted by similar social media advertisements. Keywords: juliette parker, [colorado springs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colorado-springs.md), [kidnapping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kidnapping.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [cupcakes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cupcakes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Homelessness Crisis, Camping Bans and Malibu RVs (2:36:35–2:44:12) Courts in Denver and other cities have struck down urban camping bans, citing the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. In Austin, the homelessness issue has shifted from downtown to the fringes, while in Malibu, the city is struggling with RVs parked indefinitely along the Pacific Coast Highway. Officials report health violations involving the dumping of sewage into public right-of-ways. Keywords: [homelessness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homelessness.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [denver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/denver.md), [malibu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malibu.md), [eighth amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eighth-amendment.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Cancel Culture, Austin Alley Livestream and Noise Ordinances (2:44:12–2:52:55) Business owners in cities with large homeless populations report being afraid to speak out for fear of "cancel culture" and retribution from advocates. In Austin, a resident set up a controversial livestream of an alley behind his apartment, allowing viewers to pay to play loud audio to harass people in the alley. This "social experiment" has led to noise ordinance citations and accusations of hate crimes. Keywords: [cancel culture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cancel-culture.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [livestream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/livestream.md), [noise ordinance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/noise-ordinance.md), [homelessness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homelessness.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1218-eggsistenial/chapter/38.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1217-the-elders.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1219-peak-nuts.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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