# Bad Actors > A tragic consulate attack in Libya and a push for European federalism reveal the high-stakes maneuvers of global actors during a volatile election season. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 443 - **Published:** 2012-09-13 - **Length:** 2h 36m - **Topics:** [Benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), Mustafa Shagour, [Nigel Farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), ESM Immunity, Susan Lindauer, 3D Printed Guns, Salton Sea - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors ## About this episode Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans died during a coordinated assault on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama initially attributed the violence to the inflammatory film trailer Innocence of Muslims, though evidence suggests the consulate served as a critical intelligence hub. The death of Sean Smith, a diplomat and prominent EVE Online strategist known as Vile Rat, further highlights the operational nature of the compound. Mustafa Shagour secured the Libyan Prime Ministership following a sudden runoff shift immediately after the attack, while Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman issued statements reinforcing interventionist policies. In the United Kingdom, Channel 4 cancelled the documentary Islam: The Untold Story after historian Tom Holland received security threats. Meanwhile, the German Constitutional Court approved the European Stability Mechanism, granting the fund legal immunity and a 190-billion-euro cap. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso faced a sharp rebuke from Nigel Farage in Strasbourg after calling for a Federation of Nation States to pool continental sovereignty. Susan Lindauer detailed her experience with chemical lobotomies via Haldol under the Patriot Act, while whistleblower Matt Bissonette revealed special forces' reliance on Ambien in his book No Easy Day. The program also acknowledges the knighting of Sir Richard Fowler and the generous support of executive producer Dwayne Melanson. A mysterious stench across Los Angeles, attributed to a fish die-off at the Salton Sea, provided a surreal backdrop to the week's geopolitical shifts. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/transcript.md. ### 1. Benghazi Consulate Attack, Ambassador Chris Stevens Death (0:00–10:52) Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans were killed during an assault on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama initially attributed the violence to an inflammatory internet movie trailer. Analysis of official statements suggests the State Department may have been caught off guard by a failed intelligence operation or a pre-planned attack rather than a spontaneous protest. Keywords: [chris stevens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-stevens.md), [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [libya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libya.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Sean Smith, EVE Online Gamer Vile Rat (10:54–14:01) Information management professional Sean Smith, who died in the Benghazi attack, was a prominent figure in the EVE Online gaming community known as Vile Rat. Reports indicate Smith was actively logged into the multiplayer game and messaging other players about gunfire at the compound when the siege began. His dual role as a diplomat and a high-level digital strategist suggests the consulate served as a significant intelligence hub. Keywords: [sean smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-smith.md), vile rat, eve online, [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), multiplayer gaming [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Libyan Prime Minister Election, Mustafa Shagour Appointment (14:01–22:49) Mustafa Shagour was elected Prime Minister of Libya on September 12, 2012, following a sudden shift in runoff votes immediately after the Benghazi attack. Shagour, a former U.S.-based researcher with ties to NASA and the Department of Defense, replaced Mahmoud Jibril in a move that suggests a changing of the guard within Libyan leadership. Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman issued statements supporting the interventionist path despite the tragic loss of Ambassador Stevens. Keywords: mustafa shagour, [mahmoud jibril](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mahmoud-jibril.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [joe lieberman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-lieberman.md), [libya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libya.md), [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Hillary Clinton, Innocence of Muslims Video Response (22:50–31:00) Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivered a formal address condemning the "Innocence of Muslims" video as disgusting and reprehensible while maintaining that the U.S. government had no involvement in its production. She emphasized the American constitutional tradition of free expression but noted global debates regarding the limits of speech. The administration continues to use the video as the primary explanation for unrest in Cairo and Benghazi to distract from potential operational failures. Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [innocence of muslims](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/innocence-of-muslims.md), [free speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech.md), [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), [religious tolerance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/religious-tolerance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/4.md) ### 5. 2012 Presidential Election, Clinton Political Strategy (31:00–35:03) Speculation regarding the 2012 presidential election suggests that the Clinton family may benefit politically if Mitt Romney defeats Barack Obama, potentially clearing a path for a 2016 run. The current unrest in the Middle East has shifted the national conversation from the domestic economy to foreign policy, forcing the Obama administration to manage a complex international crisis during the campaign's final stretch. Keywords: [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [2012 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2012-election.md), [october surprise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/october-surprise.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Desert Warrior Production, Innocence of Muslims Dubbing (35:03–42:14) The film "Innocence of Muslims," originally titled "Desert Warrior," is a low-budget production featuring amateur acting and obvious green-screen effects. Analysis of the footage reveals that inflammatory dialogue regarding the Prophet Muhammad was overdubbed using automated dialogue replacement (ADR) long after the original filming. The technical quality suggests the project was repurposed by amateur agitators rather than professional intelligence agencies. Keywords: desert warrior, [innocence of muslims](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/innocence-of-muslims.md), [prophet muhammad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prophet-muhammad.md), adr, [green screen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-screen.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Islam: The Untold Story, Channel 4 Documentary Cancellation (42:15–47:09) Channel 4 in the United Kingdom cancelled a scheduled screening of the documentary "Islam: The Untold Story" following security threats against historian Tom Holland. The film explores the lack of written historical records regarding the origins of Islam outside of the Quran. The cancellation coincided with the global protests surrounding the "Innocence of Muslims" trailer, highlighting increasing tensions over media portrayals of religious history. Keywords: [channel 4](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/channel-4.md), tom holland, [islam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/islam.md), [muhammad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muhammad.md), [quran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/quran.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Twitter Harassment, Australian Rugby Star Robbie Farah (47:10–49:49) New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell called for a federal police investigation into a series of offensive tweets directed at rugby league player Robbie Farah. The incident has sparked a broader debate in Australia regarding the legal consequences of internet trolling and cyberbullying. Simultaneously, television programs like "The X Factor" are incorporating anti-bullying narratives into their seasonal themes. Keywords: robbie farah, barry o'farrell, [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [cyberbullying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyberbullying.md), [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [x factor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/x-factor.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/8.md) ### 9. The New Normal, NBC Sitcom Stereotypes (49:51–52:21) The NBC sitcom "The New Normal" features Ellen Barkin as a bigoted grandmother reacting to a gay couple using her granddaughter as a surrogate. While the show relies on heavy stereotyping of homosexual relationships, it attempts to use Archie Bunker-style humor to address social dynamics. Critics note the production's reliance on exaggerated tropes common in network television comedies. Keywords: [the new normal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-new-normal.md), [nbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc.md), ellen barkin, [sitcom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sitcom.md), [stereotypes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stereotypes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Executive Producer Credits, Richard Fowler and Dwayne Melanson (52:22–54:05) Richard Fowler from South Carolina and Sir Dwayne Melanson from Oregon are recognized as executive producers for their significant financial contributions. Melanson's donation of $444.44 commemorates the upcoming 444th episode of the program. The hosts acknowledge the support of these donors in maintaining the show's independent deconstruction of political events. Keywords: richard fowler, [dwayne melanson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dwayne-melanson.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/10.md) ### 11. 3D Printed Guns, Open Source Weaponry (54:05–56:05) The emergence of 3D printing technology has effectively bypassed traditional gun control measures by allowing individuals to print functional firearm components using open-source code. While current plastic materials limit the durability of these weapons, the availability of the digital blueprints makes it nearly impossible for governments to regulate production. This shift represents a fundamental challenge to existing firearm legislation and manufacturing monopolies. Keywords: [3d printing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/3d-printing.md), [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [open source](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/open-source.md), [ak-47](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ak-47.md), [manufacturing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manufacturing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Listener Donations, Doug Gerull and Felix Cornici (56:06–57:38) Donors Doug Gerull and Felix Cornici are thanked for their contributions and requests for "karma" to assist with personal projects and family life. Cornici credits previous donations with improving his domestic situation, emphasizing the value of the show's community-driven funding model. The hosts perform "de-douching" rituals for listeners returning to the fold after periods of non-contribution. Keywords: doug gerull, felix cornici, [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [connecticut](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connecticut.md), [colorado](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colorado.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/12.md) ### 13. No Agenda Community, Eclipse Curry Annotation Tool (57:38–1:03:36) A new community-developed tool at eclipsecurry.com allows users to annotate and skip to specific segments of podcast episodes, fulfilling a long-standing request for better navigation. Meanwhile, news reports indicate that protests against U.S. interests are spreading to Yemen and Iran. Media outlets like CNN are criticized for using pre-prepared graphics and "lower thirds" that anticipate official government narratives. Keywords: eclipse curry, annotation, [crowdsourcing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crowdsourcing.md), [middle east](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/middle-east.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Susan Lindauer, Haldol and Chemical Lobotomies (1:03:36–1:07:35) Whistleblower Susan Lindauer describes being held without trial under the Patriot Act and facing government attempts to forcibly medicate her with Haldol, Ativan, and Prozac. Lindauer characterizes Haldol as a "chemical lobotomy" that induces Parkinson's-like symptoms, rendering a person unable to speak, write, or process information. The drug is frequently used in prison systems to manage non-compliant inmates. Keywords: susan lindauer, [haldol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haldol.md), [patriot act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriot-act.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), carswell air force base [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/14.md) ### 15. No Easy Day, Ambien Pharmaceutical PR (1:07:39–1:13:45) The book "No Easy Day" by former Navy SEAL Matt Bissonette contains references to the use of Ambien by special forces during the mission to kill Osama bin Laden. Media coverage on CNN, featuring Erin Burnett, has been characterized as an embedded commercial for the sleep aid, discussing specific dosages and timing for travelers. Critics argue the segment serves as pharmaceutical PR disguised as military reporting. Keywords: matt bissonette, [navy seals](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/navy-seals.md), [ambien](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ambien.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [erin burnett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/erin-burnett.md), [pharmaceutical](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Benjamin Netanyahu, Obama Administration Tensions (1:13:47–1:19:01) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in a state of high tension with the Obama administration over "red lines" regarding Iran's nuclear program. Reports suggest the White House pressured Israel to avoid a preemptive strike before the U.S. election to prevent an oil crisis. Netanyahu's increasingly harsh rhetoric is viewed by some analysts as a form of coordination with the Mitt Romney campaign. Keywords: [benjamin netanyahu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benjamin-netanyahu.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [amy goodman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-goodman.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/16.md) ### 17. The Blaze TV, Glenn Beck Network Launch (1:19:01–1:24:29) Glenn Beck's media outlet, The Blaze, has transitioned from a web-based platform to a 24/7 television network available on Dish Network. Analysts predict the network's ratings could eventually surpass those of MSNBC as it builds a dedicated audience for conservative programming. Meanwhile, MSNBC continues to lean into partisan commentary with hosts like Toure and Al Sharpton. Keywords: [glenn beck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-beck.md), [the blaze](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-blaze.md), [dish network](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dish-network.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [media ratings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-ratings.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Salton Sea Stench, Los Angeles Odor Mystery (1:24:34–1:27:04) A mysterious foul odor that caused nausea and stomach aches across the Los Angeles and Pasadena areas was officially attributed to a massive fish die-off at the Salton Sea, 150 miles away. Some residents remain skeptical of the official explanation, given the distance the scent traveled. The incident was brought to light by a listener who discovered the podcast via a stencil painted on a city sidewalk. Keywords: salton sea, [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md), [pasadena](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pasadena.md), stench, dead fish [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/18.md) ### 19. NYC Cycling Accident, Anonymous Donor Karma (1:27:04–1:29:36) An anonymous donor in Brooklyn contributed $136.35 after surviving a bicycle accident in Manhattan, attributing their safety to "karma." Another donor, Graham Scott from Western Australia, requested "lone wolf milf karma" for his partner. The segment highlights the personal anecdotes shared by the show's global audience during the donation process. Keywords: [brooklyn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brooklyn.md), [cycling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cycling.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [bank of america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-of-america.md), [nyc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nyc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Canine Flu Vaccine, Veterinary Industry Scams (1:29:39–1:30:53) A listener in Pennsylvania reports that local doggy daycares are now requiring a canine flu vaccine, despite the manufacturer's admission that it does not prevent dogs from contracting the virus. The requirement is viewed as a financial scam within the veterinary industry. The host notes that canine flu only became a prominent concern within the last four years, suggesting a manufactured market for the treatment. Keywords: canine flu, [vaccine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine.md), doggy daycare, [veterinary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veterinary.md), [pennsylvania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pennsylvania.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Birthday Greetings, Slide Whistle Performance (1:30:53–1:36:00) The hosts perform birthday greetings for listeners' family members, featuring a slide whistle accompaniment. A Canadian listener in Los Angeles requested "swine flu karma" to assist with an H1B visa application. The segment includes various "karma shots" for listeners in Arizona and California who contributed to the show's production. Keywords: [happy birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/happy-birthday.md), [slide whistle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/slide-whistle.md), [h1b visa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1b-visa.md), [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [arizona](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arizona.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Fifth Anniversary Donations, House Sale Karma (1:36:04–1:40:27) Listeners Matt Mariotti and Dennis Cruz contributed to the show, with Mariotti requesting karma to help sell his house in Cleveland before a move to Pittsburgh. The hosts emphasize that while they appreciate the support, donations should be based on the value of the content rather than transactional requests for luck. The program is approaching its fifth anniversary in October. Keywords: [fifth anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fifth-anniversary.md), [cleveland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cleveland.md), [pittsburgh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pittsburgh.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Knighting Ceremony, Sir Richard Fowler (1:40:26–1:42:46) Richard Fowler is officially knighted into the No Agenda Roundtable following a donation of over $1,000. The ceremony includes the traditional "hookers and blow" proclamation and the promise of a physical knight's ring. The hosts encourage other listeners to contribute before the end of the year to receive the current version of the membership ring. Keywords: richard fowler, [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [no agenda roundtable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-roundtable.md), [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), episode 444 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/23.md) ### 24. European Central Bank, Eurozone Banking Supervision (1:42:47–1:46:44) The EU Commission has unveiled plans for the European Central Bank to directly supervise over 6,000 financial institutions within the Eurozone. This move coincides with the German Constitutional Court's approval of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), a permanent bailout fund. Germany's contribution is capped at 190 billion euros, though the total fund is projected to reach 500 to 600 billion euros. Keywords: [european central bank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-central-bank.md), [eurozone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurozone.md), [esm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esm.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [michel barnier](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michel-barnier.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Jose Manuel Barroso, Federation of Nation States (1:46:44–1:51:52) European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso called for a "Federation of Nation States" during his State of the Union address in Strasbourg. He argued for the "pooling of sovereignty" to increase collective power and criticized opponents of the plan as "populists" and "nationalists." Barroso indicated that completing this economic and monetary union would eventually require a new European treaty. Keywords: [jose manuel barroso](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jose-manuel-barroso.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [sovereignty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sovereignty.md), [federation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federation.md), [strasbourg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/strasbourg.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Nigel Farage, Barroso Parliamentary Debate (1:51:54–1:57:28) Nigel Farage engaged in a heated exchange with Jose Manuel Barroso in the European Parliament, accusing the Commission President of having a "twisted form of democracy." Farage criticized the labeling of euroskeptics as extremists and pointed out that the public was never given a choice in Barroso's appointment. Barroso countered by mocking Farage's inability to get elected to the British Parliament. Keywords: [nigel farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), [jose manuel barroso](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jose-manuel-barroso.md), [democracy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy.md), [european parliament](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-parliament.md), [ukip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukip.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Daniel Hannan, Eurozone Economic Alternative (1:57:29–1:59:10) British MEP Daniel Hannan argued in the European Parliament that peripheral Eurozone countries should "default, devalue, and decouple" to recover their economies. He cited the historical examples of the UK, Denmark, and Sweden, where avoiding or leaving fixed exchange rate mechanisms led to economic growth rather than the predicted disasters. Hannan claimed Eurocrats fear this path because it would restore power to citizens. Keywords: [daniel hannan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daniel-hannan.md), [eurozone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurozone.md), [inflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inflation.md), [sweden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sweden.md), [denmark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/denmark.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/27.md) ### 28. European Stability Mechanism, Legal Immunity Provisions (1:59:11–2:03:22) The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) treaty contains articles granting its governors and staff total immunity from judicial processes and legal proceedings. Article 32 and 35 ensure that the ESM's property and documents are "inviolable," effectively making the entity more sovereign than the member states it serves. In the Netherlands, Prime Minister Mark Rutte's pro-Europe party maintained power as Geert Wilders' euroskeptic party lost significant ground. Keywords: [esm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esm.md), [legal immunity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/legal-immunity.md), [eurozone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurozone.md), [geert wilders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geert-wilders.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Economic Cycle Theory, 2020 World War Prediction (2:03:23–2:10:01) Analysis of historical economic cycles suggests a major systemic collapse may occur in October 2012 or 2013, potentially leading to a global conflict by 2020. The Federal Reserve's policy of purchasing $40 billion in debt monthly is viewed as an insufficient measure to prevent this inevitable downturn. Historical 80-year cycles of major American wars—1776, 1861, and 1941—point toward a significant conflagration in the early 2020s. Keywords: [economic cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-cycle.md), [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [gold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold.md), [2020](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2020.md), [world war](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Farmland Value, Economic Collapse Survival (2:10:01–2:14:27) During major economic downturns, farmland is historically the only asset class that consistently increases in value. While real estate typically follows the value of gold, current market conditions have decoupled the two, leaving real estate stagnant. Predictions for the coming years include increased homelessness and crime, culminating in a projected civil war in Europe by 2019 or 2020. Keywords: [farmland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/farmland.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [inflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inflation.md), [economic collapse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-collapse.md), [2020](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2020.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Gary Johnson, Libertarian Presidential Campaign (2:14:27–2:17:35) Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson is campaigning on a platform of ending the drug war, repealing the Patriot Act, and abolishing the IRS in favor of a consumption tax. Johnson is currently on the ballot in 47 states and is fighting legal challenges from Republicans in Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. He advocates for an immediate withdrawal from Afghanistan and opposition to military intervention in Iran. Keywords: [gary johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gary-johnson.md), [libertarian party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libertarian-party.md), [patriot act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriot-act.md), [irs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irs.md), [2012 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2012-election.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Bruce Springsteen, We Take Care of Our Own (2:17:36–2:22:38) President Barack Obama utilized the Bruce Springsteen song "We Take Care of Our Own" during a campaign stop in Nevada. The song's lyrics, which reference "knocking on the door that holds the throne" and the absence of the cavalry during crises, have drawn scrutiny for their symbolic meaning. The track was released in 2012 and has become a staple of the administration's re-election events. Keywords: [bruce springsteen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bruce-springsteen.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [nevada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada.md), [campaign music](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-music.md), [lyrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lyrics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Rand Paul, Pakistan Foreign Aid Freeze (2:22:40–2:24:26) Senator Rand Paul has called for a freeze on all U.S. aid to Pakistan until the release of Dr. Shaquille Afridi, who assisted the CIA in locating Osama bin Laden. Paul argued that the U.S. should not provide billions in annual assistance to a government that tortures individuals who aid American priorities. The Obama administration currently provides approximately $2.1 billion in annual aid to the country. Keywords: [rand paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-paul.md), [pakistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pakistan.md), shaquille afridi, [foreign aid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foreign-aid.md), [harry reid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harry-reid.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Isle of Jersey, Child Abuse and Elite Scandals (2:24:26–2:30:55) Journalist Leah McGrath Goodman has been banned from the UK following her investigation into systemic child abuse at an orphanage on the Isle of Jersey. The scandal involves allegations of torture and murder dating back decades, with claims that a full investigation could "bring the entire British government down." The island's status as a tax haven and its unique relationship with the Crown complicate jurisdictional oversight of these crimes. Keywords: [isle of jersey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isle-of-jersey.md), leah mcgrath goodman, [max keiser](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/max-keiser.md), [child abuse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/child-abuse.md), [marc dutroux](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marc-dutroux.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/34.md) ### 35. FISA Renewal, National Emergency Extension (2:30:55–2:32:27) The FISA wireless wiretap renewal bill has been signed, authorizing five more years of government surveillance on American citizens. Additionally, the President has re-upped the state of national emergency originally declared on September 14, 2001, for the 12th consecutive year. These extensions of executive power are typically published in the Federal Register without significant press coverage. Keywords: [fisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa.md), [wiretapping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wiretapping.md), [national emergency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-emergency.md), [federal register](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-register.md), [spying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spying.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Mitt Romney Tax Returns, Bank of America Car Chase (2:32:27–2:36:32) Speculation regarding Mitt Romney's refusal to release his tax returns includes theories about illegitimate children or unusual charitable donations. Meanwhile, a dramatic car chase in Los Angeles following a Bank of America robbery saw suspects throwing cash out of their vehicle windows to crowds of onlookers. The event provided a significant media distraction during the launch of the iPhone 5. Keywords: [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [bank of america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-of-america.md), [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md), car chase, [iphone 5](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iphone-5.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/443-bad-actors/chapter/36.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/442-zombie-webinar.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/444-new-red-line.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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