# Oil Spill Déjà vu

> A look back at the 1979 Ixtoc I disaster reveals a familiar script for the Deepwater Horizon crisis while geopolitical unrest in Jamaica masks a struggle for oil.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 204
- **Published:** 2010-05-30
- **Length:** 2h 8m
- **Topics:** Ixtoc I, [Deepwater Horizon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deepwater-horizon.md), Dudus Coke, Eurovision 2010, [Foxconn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foxconn.md), [MADD](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/madd.md), [Ground Zero Mosque](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ground-zero-mosque.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu

## About this episode

Rachel Maddow and NBC archival footage reveal a startling parallel between the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster and the 1979 Ixtoc I blowout. This historical comparison suggests the oil industry relies on a decades-old playbook for managing environmental catastrophes and manipulating market prices rather than advancing safety technology. The crisis continues to dominate the cultural landscape as Glenn Beck faces backlash for mocking Malia Obama’s questions regarding the BP spill.

International tensions rise as the hunt for Christopher "Dudus" Coke in Kingston, Jamaica, appears to serve as a cover for securing offshore oil reserves following new seismic data. In Europe, Germany secures a Eurovision victory with Lena Meyer-Landrut’s "Satellite" amid a debt crisis that has the Netherlands questioning Greek retirement ages and the legality of EU bailouts. Meanwhile, reports from Foxconn factories in China challenge the media narrative of an "iPhone suicide factory," noting that the employee suicide rate remains below the Chinese national average despite pressure from partners like Apple and Dell.

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, navigates a bribery scandal with a high-profile Oprah Winfrey interview while rumors swirl of a potential role on Donald Trump’s The Apprentice. A London urban fox makes headlines for a daring apartment break-in to steal an expensive shoe, illustrating the unintended consequences of the UK fox hunting ban. The episode concludes with a look at Joe Biden’s Naval Academy address and his controversial framing of Brussels as the capital of the free world.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/transcript.md.

### 1. June Proclamations, LGBT Pride and Caribbean American Heritage Month (0:00–2:48)

President Barack Obama issued multiple proclamations designating June 2010 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month, Caribbean American Heritage Month, and African-American Music Appreciation Month. The hosts question the logistical feasibility of assigning four distinct themes to a single month. There is specific commentary on the timing of Caribbean American Heritage Month in relation to ongoing issues in Haiti and Jamaica.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [lgbt pride month](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lgbt-pride-month.md), caribbean american heritage month, african-american music appreciation month, presidential proclamations

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Executive Producer Sir R. Daniels, Kate's Foundation Sunscreen PSA (2:48–7:39)

Sir R. Daniels achieved the status of "double knight" by donating $700 to the program, requesting a public service announcement for Kate's Foundation. The foundation provides free sunscreen to the public through its website. Additionally, Associate Executive Producer Michael Gubo, a commercial and television director with credits on CSI, is recognized for his contribution.

Keywords: sir r. daniels, katesfoundation.org, [sunscreen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sunscreen.md), michael gubo, television directors

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Eurovision Song Contest 2010, Germany Victory with Lena Meyer-Landrut (7:40–12:45)

Germany won the 2010 Eurovision Song Contest held in Oslo, Norway (following Russia's previous win) with the song "Satellite" performed by Lena. The production featured massive stage sets and advanced camera technology. Speculation suggests Germany's victory was influenced by geopolitical factors and the European debt crisis, as other nations look to Germany for financial stability.

Keywords: [eurovision song contest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurovision-song-contest.md), lena meyer-landrut, [denmark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/denmark.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [satellite](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/satellite.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Glenn Beck, Malia Obama Oil Spill Comment Controversy (12:46–21:10)

Media Matters denounced radio host Glenn Beck for a satirical segment involving President Obama’s daughter, Malia. The controversy centered on Beck mocking a story Obama told about Malia asking if he had "plugged the hole" yet regarding the BP oil spill. While Beck eventually apologized, he maintained that the President was using his children as political props to distract from the ecological disaster.

Keywords: [glenn beck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-beck.md), [malia obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malia-obama.md), [media matters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-matters.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [deepwater horizon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deepwater-horizon.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Rachel Maddow, 1979 Ixtoc I Oil Spill Comparison (21:11–30:26)

Rachel Maddow aired archival NBC footage from June 1979 showing a near-identical scenario to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. In 1979, the Ixtoc I well blew out in the Gulf of Mexico while the Trans-Alaska Pipeline was simultaneously restricted due to leaks. The comparison suggests the oil industry is following an old playbook for managing disasters and manipulating market prices rather than improving safety technology.

Keywords: [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), ixtoc i oil spill, [bp oil spill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bp-oil-spill.md), [gulf of mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulf-of-mexico.md), trans-alaska pipeline

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Sarah Ferguson, Oprah Winfrey Interview and Donald Trump Rumors (30:27–34:17)

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, scheduled a high-profile interview with Oprah Winfrey following a bribery scandal orchestrated by News of the World. Reports indicate Ferguson may be seeking a role on Donald Trump’s reality show, The Apprentice. The discussion frames the scandal as a calculated move to generate publicity and income for the Duchess.

Keywords: [sarah ferguson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarah-ferguson.md), [oprah winfrey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oprah-winfrey.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [the apprentice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-apprentice.md), [news of the world](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/news-of-the-world.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/6.md)

### 7. London Urban Fox Problem, Stolen Shoe Anecdote (34:17–36:58)

A personal anecdote describes an urban fox entering a mezzanine-level apartment in London and stealing an expensive shoe. The incident highlights the increasing boldness of foxes in the UK following the ban on fox hunting. There is speculation that media outlets like News of the World will eventually report on more dangerous interactions between foxes and humans.

Keywords: [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [foxes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foxes.md), fox hunting, [news of the world](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/news-of-the-world.md), [urban wildlife](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/urban-wildlife.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Jamaica State of Emergency, Christopher "Dudus" Coke and Oil Interests (36:59–45:51)

The 2010 unrest in Kingston, Jamaica, officially attributed to the hunt for gang leader Christopher "Dudus" Coke, is characterized as a cover for securing offshore oil interests. A timeline of events shows recent debt restructuring with the IMF and new seismic data indicating significant oil reserves near Jamaica and Cuba. The deployment of American predator drones and military personnel suggests a strategic takeover of the region's natural resources.

Keywords: [jamaica](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamaica.md), christopher dudus coke, [kingston](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kingston.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), offshore oil

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/8.md)

### 9. European Debt Crisis, Greek Retirement and Retsina Wine (45:51–51:29)

The European Union's bailout of Greece faces legal hurdles under the Lisbon Treaty, which technically prohibits such financial rescues. Public resentment is growing in countries like the Netherlands over Greek retirement ages and fiscal management. The segment transitions into a discussion of Retsina, a traditional Greek wine flavored with pine resin, which is described as an acquired and often unpleasant taste.

Keywords: [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md), [lisbon treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lisbon-treaty.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), [bailout](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bailout.md), retsina

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Nobu Restaurant Dining, Corporate Expense Accounts (51:31–54:35)

A review of a recent meal at Nobu in Los Angeles highlights signature dishes like black cod and beef in truffle butter. The high cost of the restaurant is noted, with a suggestion that such venues are best visited on a corporate expense account. The strategy of using high-end meals to distract CEOs and marketing executives during business pitches is discussed.

Keywords: nobu, [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md), black cod, [fine dining](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fine-dining.md), expense accounts

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/10.md)

### 11. MADD Neo-Prohibitionism, Candy Lightner and Alcohol Revenue (54:35–58:35)

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is criticized for evolving into a "neo-prohibitionist" organization, a sentiment echoed by its founder Candy Lightner. Financial records indicate the group generates significant revenue from court-ordered Victim Impact Panels (VIPs). This trend toward restricting alcohol is also noted in France, where new regulations have limited alcohol advertising and public consumption.

Keywords: mothers against drunk driving, candy lightner, [dui](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dui.md), [prohibition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prohibition.md), [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Vietnam War Draft, Berkeley Protests and Induction Refusal (58:36–1:02:40)

A discussion regarding personal histories during the Vietnam War era focuses on anti-war protests in Berkeley. An anecdote is shared about an individual who openly refused induction into the military and was never prosecuted, despite repeated threats from federal authorities. The conversation touches on the various methods people used to avoid the draft during the 1960s.

Keywords: [vietnam war](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vietnam-war.md), [berkeley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkeley.md), draft dodger, [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [induction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/induction.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Producer Donations, Salt Movie Promotion and Birthday Wishes (1:02:41–1:06:53)

Donors including Robert Gold and John C. Jones are recognized for their financial support, with birthday wishes extended to their family members. A marketing campaign for the Angelina Jolie film "Salt" is noted in New York City, featuring the slogan "Salt Must Die." The hosts debate whether the timing of the ad campaign is a coincidence or a coordinated media event.

Keywords: robert gold, john c. jones, [angelina jolie](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angelina-jolie.md), [salt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/salt.md), podcast for peace

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Ground Zero Mosque Controversy, Joy Behar and Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf (1:06:54–1:16:37)

The proposal to build a 13-story Islamic community center and mosque near Ground Zero in New York City sparked intense debate on The Joy Behar Show. While proponents argue the project promotes religious tolerance and community amenities, critics view it as insensitive to the families of 9/11 victims. The New York City community board voted 29-1 in favor of the project, despite significant public opposition.

Keywords: [ground zero mosque](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ground-zero-mosque.md), [joy behar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joy-behar.md), feisal abdul rauf, [bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bloomberg.md), park51

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Walid Shoebat, Sharia Law and PJTV Analysis (1:16:38–1:22:44)

Walid Shoebat, described as a former terrorist, appeared on PJTV to discuss the potential for Sharia law to infiltrate democratic governments. Shoebat claims that certain Islamic theologians advocate for establishing Islamic governance through existing democratic systems. The segment is critiqued as a potential distraction that uses religious tension to drive media engagement.

Keywords: walid shoebat, [sharia law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sharia-law.md), pjtv, [muslim brotherhood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muslim-brotherhood.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Inside Edition Recap, Gary Coleman Death and Tyra Banks (1:22:47–1:26:13)

A summary of recent tabloid news includes the death of actor Gary Coleman at age 42 and the final episode of The Tyra Banks Show. Inside Edition coverage also featured updates on the Jesse James scandal and Sarah Ferguson's travel habits. The use of repetitive laugh tracks and applause loops in daytime talk shows is highlighted as a sign of declining production quality.

Keywords: gary coleman, [inside edition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inside-edition.md), [tyra banks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tyra-banks.md), [jesse james](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jesse-james.md), deborah norville

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/16.md)

### 17. White House Weekly Address, Green Screen Production Issues (1:26:22–1:31:28)

President Obama's weekly address for Memorial Day is criticized for its poor production quality, specifically the obvious use of a green screen. Viewers noted inconsistencies in the President's attire and a black outline around his head, suggesting the background was digitally inserted. The hosts question why the White House would use a studio setup rather than filming in an actual room.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [whitehouse.gov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whitehouse-gov.md), [green screen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-screen.md), [memorial day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memorial-day.md), [video production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/video-production.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Foxconn Suicide Rates, Media Narrative and Apple (1:31:28–1:33:15)

Reports on suicides at Foxconn factories in China are analyzed in the context of national statistics. While the media has labeled Foxconn an "iPhone suicide factory," data suggests the suicide rate among the company's 450,000 employees is actually lower than the national average in China. The discussion notes that other major tech companies like Dell, HP, and Microsoft also utilize Foxconn for manufacturing.

Keywords: [foxconn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foxconn.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [iphone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iphone.md), suicide rate

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Afghanistan Drug Trade, CIA Involvement and Marine Reports (1:33:17–1:35:44)

A report from a hospital worker treating Marines from Afghanistan claims that drugs confiscated from runners are often handed over to an unidentified agency, likely the CIA. While some drugs are destroyed in public ceremonies, there is a strong belief among service members that the bulk is sold on the black market to fund covert operations. The use of hashish among the local Afghan population is also noted as a pervasive issue.

Keywords: [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [heroin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heroin.md), [opium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/opium.md), [marines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marines.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/19.md)

### 20. National Security Strategy, Homegrown Terrorism and Internet Regulation (1:35:46–1:44:49)

The Obama administration's 2010 National Security Strategy (NSS) shifts focus toward "homegrown terrorism" and the role of the internet in radicalization. This policy aligns with HR 1955, a bill aimed at preventing violent radicalization within the United States. Critics argue these measures are a pretext for shutting down free speech and increasing government surveillance of American citizens.

Keywords: [national security strategy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security-strategy.md), [homegrown terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homegrown-terrorism.md), [jane harman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jane-harman.md), [internet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet.md), nss

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Dennis Hopper Death, Twitter Journalism and Virginia Madsen (1:44:50–1:48:06)

Following the death of actor Dennis Hopper from prostate cancer, media outlets are criticized for sourcing news and tributes primarily from Twitter. An anecdote is shared regarding an interview with Hopper during his time at MTV, describing his eccentric personality. The segment also includes unverified Hollywood rumors regarding actress Virginia Madsen and film crew members.

Keywords: dennis hopper, virginia madsen, [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), true romance, [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Electric Car Skepticism, Elon Musk and Tesla Motors (1:48:06–1:51:45)

John Stossel presented a historical overview of electric car "breakthroughs" dating back to 1915, characterizing the industry as a century of failure. Current concerns focus on Tesla Motors founder Elon Musk's reported financial difficulties and the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposing of large-scale lithium batteries. The $500 million government loan facility for electric vehicle development is also scrutinized.

Keywords: [elon musk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elon-musk.md), [tesla motors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesla-motors.md), [john stossel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-stossel.md), [electric cars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-cars.md), [lithium batteries](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lithium-batteries.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Australian Mining Tax, Access Hollywood and Lee DeWyze (1:51:46–1:55:09)

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's proposed 60% tax on mining companies in Australia has led to significant economic concerns and a drop in the Australian dollar. In entertainment news, Access Hollywood covered the reunion of Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, as well as the post-win activities of American Idol's Lee DeWyze. The segment critiques the frantic pacing and heavy use of sound effects in celebrity news broadcasts.

Keywords: [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [kevin rudd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kevin-rudd.md), [mining tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mining-tax.md), [access hollywood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/access-hollywood.md), lee dewyze

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Uganda Anti-Gay Laws, Current TV Documentary and Pastor Martin Ssempa (1:55:09–2:00:01)

A documentary on Al Gore's Current TV network explored the controversial anti-gay legislation in Uganda, featuring Pastor Martin Ssempa. The reporting is criticized for its heavy use of background music and for potentially staging interviews with locals who may not speak English as their primary language. The hosts suggest the sudden media focus on Uganda may precede a foreign policy intervention.

Keywords: [uganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uganda.md), martin ssempa, [current tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/current-tv.md), [al gore](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-gore.md), [lgbt rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lgbt-rights.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Joe Biden Naval Academy Speech, Brussels Comparison and Outro (2:00:02–2:07:58)

Vice President Joe Biden delivered a commencement speech at the U.S. Naval Academy, emphasizing American ideals and security. This is contrasted with his previous remarks in Brussels, where he suggested that the city, as the capital of the EU and NATO, had a legitimate claim to being the "capital of the free world." The show concludes with a reminder of a special Wednesday night live broadcast due to upcoming travel.

Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [naval academy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/naval-academy.md), [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/204-oil-spill-d-eacute-j-agrave-vu/chapter/25.md)

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