# Deficit Pending > A coast-to-coast broadcast dissects the first presidential debate, the weaponization of bullying narratives, and the suspicious timing of a national peanut butter salmonella outbreak. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 449 - **Published:** 2012-10-04 - **Length:** 2h 39m - **Topics:** Debate Analysis, Rial Devaluation, OIC Blasphemy, Estate Recovery, Drone Proliferation, Salmonella Recall, NDAA Section 1021 - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending ## About this episode Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak broadcast from Washington to Washington as the 2012 presidential race enters its final stretch. Following the first debate at the University of Denver, the hosts analyze Barack Obama’s lackluster performance against Mitt Romney and investigate claims of a hidden electronic device under the President’s jacket. The analysis extends to the exclusion of third-party candidates like Gary Johnson and the media's role in manufacturing a competitive horse race narrative. Global tensions rise as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation pushes for international blasphemy laws following the Innocence of Muslims controversy. Economic instability deepens with the Iranian Rial losing forty percent of its value in a single week, while IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde offers a conflicting outlook on the American housing market. In the United States, the Food Safety Modernization Act faces scrutiny after a massive Sunland peanut butter salmonella recall coincides with a failure in the FDA registration system. Additional reports cover the Asymmetric Warfare Group radicalization guide, American Airlines seat sabotage suspicions, and a White House phishing attack during Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Technical glitches and hotel Skype loops provide the backdrop for a series of distinctive moments, including Adam Curry’s attempt to teach a parrot the show's catchphrase. The hosts also examine the viral response of news anchor Jennifer Livingston to a viewer's email and the strange interaction between Hillary Clinton and Christina Aguilera at the World Food Program Awards. Executive Producers Adam Johnson and Matthias Person are knighted into the No Agenda Roundtable for their value-for-value support. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/transcript.md. ### 1. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak Broadcast from Washington to Washington (0:00–2:44) Adam Curry broadcasts from the Capitol Skyline Hotel in Washington, D.C., while John C. Dvorak joins from his compound in Washington State, marking a "Washington to Washington" coast-to-coast episode. Curry explains his presence in the capital to support Miss Mickey at the eMERGE Art Fair. The hosts address potential technical issues and feedback loops inherent in streaming high-quality clips over Skype from a hotel environment. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [washington dc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-dc.md), [washington state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-state.md), emerge art fair, capitol skyline hotel, [podcast history](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-history.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Trade Show Pens and the Decline of Handwriting (2:45–4:32) John C. Dvorak complains about the poor quality of promotional pens collected from trade shows, noting that most fail to write shortly after acquisition. Adam Curry admits he rarely uses writing utensils anymore, relying instead on digital outliners and memory. The discussion highlights a generational shift away from doodling and manual note-taking, with handwriting now largely reserved for household grocery lists. Keywords: [trade shows](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trade-shows.md), [pens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pens.md), [handwriting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/handwriting.md), grocery lists, doodling, outliner software [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Jennifer Livingston, National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, and Free Speech (4:33–15:10) The hosts deconstruct a viral video featuring WKBT news anchor Jennifer Livingston responding to an email criticizing her weight during National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. They argue that Livingston used her "bully pulpit" to publicly shame a private critic, framing the event as a manufactured talking point to support legislation limiting free speech. Adam Curry suggests that labeling the internet as a "weapon" and schools as "battlegrounds" is a precursor to increased internet regulation and the erosion of First Amendment rights. Keywords: jennifer livingston, wkbt, national bullying prevention awareness month, [bullying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bullying.md), [free speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech.md), [internet freedom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-freedom.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Global Blasphemy Laws (15:11–20:11) The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is calling for international laws to ban "hate speech" and blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad following the "Innocence of Muslims" film controversy. The hosts discuss how Western leaders like President Obama and Hillary Clinton are increasingly entertaining these restrictions on free speech. They also note the irony of the OIC's "religious tolerance" map, which explicitly blocks India from membership. Keywords: organization of islamic cooperation, oic, blasphemy laws, [free speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech.md), [prophet muhammad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prophet-muhammad.md), [india](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/india.md), [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Executive Producer Credits and Value-for-Value Donations (20:11–28:16) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak acknowledge their executive and associate executive producers for episode 449, including Adam Johnson, Matthias Person, Frank Ajinsat, and Rick Cable. The segment details the "value-for-value" model, where listeners donate specific amounts to earn credits, "karma," or "knighthoods" within the No Agenda community. Technical difficulties with Skype's duplexing and connection limits are briefly addressed during the donor read. Keywords: [adam johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-johnson.md), matthias person, frank ajinsat, rick cable, [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/5.md) ### 6. First 2012 Presidential Debate Analysis and Jim Lehrer's Moderation (28:17–38:21) The hosts analyze the first 2012 presidential debate between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney at the University of Denver, suggesting the media narrative required a "horse race" to maintain interest. They criticize Jim Lehrer's moderation, noting he lost control of the candidates early in the broadcast. Adam Curry observes that Obama appeared to be on "autopilot," even explaining Romney's positions for him, leading to a perceived victory for Romney. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [jim lehrer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jim-lehrer.md), 2012 presidential debate, [university of denver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/university-of-denver.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), media consulting [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Obama's Debate Performance and Alleged Electronic Devices (38:21–42:52) Adam Curry claims to have seen a cigarette-pack-sized object underneath President Obama's jacket during the post-debate family greetings, speculating it could be a radio receiver or battery pack. This observation mirrors past conspiracy theories regarding George W. Bush wearing a similar device during debates. The hosts discuss the possibility of candidates using ear implants or hidden transmitters to receive coaching from advisors in real-time. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [michelle obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-obama.md), [debate performance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debate-performance.md), electronic receiver, neurotechnology, [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Third-Party Candidates and Gary Johnson's Media Presence (42:53–46:59) The hosts list various third-party organizations, including the Libertarian, Green, and Constitution parties, noting their exclusion from the Commission on Presidential Debates. A clip of Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson is played, where he argues that voting for a candidate one doesn't believe in is the only "wasted vote." Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak critique Johnson's vocal delivery, suggesting he sounds "wasted" during his media appearances. Keywords: [gary johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gary-johnson.md), [libertarian party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libertarian-party.md), [green party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-party.md), constitution party, [presidential debates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/presidential-debates.md), [ross perot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ross-perot.md), third-party candidates [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/8.md) ### 9. MassHealth Estate Recovery and Healthcare Scams (46:59–56:03) A C-SPAN caller describes how MassHealth placed a claim on his deceased father's estate, including his home and stocks, to recover healthcare costs. The hosts criticize Boston Herald reporter Christine McConville for her lack of knowledge regarding "estate recovery" laws, which allow the government to seize assets from members over age 55. They warn listeners that similar rules exist in other states, such as Medi-Cal in California, often catching families off guard during probate. Keywords: masshealth, [medicare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medicare.md), [medicaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medicaid.md), estate recovery, [boston herald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boston-herald.md), christine mcconville, [healthcare fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-fraud.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Asymmetric Warfare Group Radicalization Guide (56:03–1:01:02) The military's Asymmetric Warfare Group (AWG) released a tactical reference guide to help leaders identify signs of radicalization into violent extremism. Adam Curry reviews the guide's flowchart, which flags behaviors such as complaining about bias, visiting "extremist" blogs, or establishing websites to display unconventional views. The hosts jokingly apply these criteria to themselves, noting that the broad definitions could classify almost anyone as a potential threat. Keywords: asymmetric warfare group, awg, [radicalization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radicalization.md), [violent extremism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/violent-extremism.md), military personnel, [pre-crime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pre-crime.md), tactical reference guide [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Beyond Wonderland Rave Noise Complaints in Oakland (1:01:03–1:05:55) A massive "Beyond Wonderland" rave held in the Oakland Coliseum parking lot generated thousands of noise complaints from residents as far as seven miles away. Alameda County Supervisor Wilma Chan reported receiving calls from angry constituents at 1:00 AM. John C. Dvorak questions why law enforcement did not enforce decibel level regulations, while Adam Curry criticizes the media for treating the event as a "human interest" story rather than a regulatory failure. Keywords: beyond wonderland, [oakland coliseum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oakland-coliseum.md), [noise complaints](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/noise-complaints.md), wilma chan, decibel levels, electronic dance music [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Hillary Clinton and Christina Aguilera at World Food Program Awards (1:05:56–1:08:59) Secretary of State Hillary Clinton honored Christina Aguilera at the World Food Program Awards, making a comment about wanting to be on Aguilera's "team." The hosts discuss a viral photograph of Clinton appearing to look down Aguilera's cleavage, which they have hosted at a custom URL. They mock the interaction, referencing "presidential models" and MK Ultra conspiracy tropes. Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [christina aguilera](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christina-aguilera.md), [world food program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-food-program.md), george getty, cleavage, [mk ultra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mk-ultra.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/12.md) ### 13. IMF Economic Forecasts and Christine Lagarde's Housing Claims (1:08:59–1:14:43) IMF Chief Economist Olivier Blanchard predicts the global economic crisis will last until at least 2018, aligning with John C. Dvorak's long-wave cycle theories. Conversely, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde claims the U.S. housing market has "bottomed up" and is showing signs of recovery. Dvorak dismisses Lagarde's optimism, arguing that housing cycles are distinct from broader economic health and that the "Great Recession" meme is being used to mask structural failures. Keywords: [christine lagarde](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christine-lagarde.md), olivier blanchard, [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), [great recession](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/great-recession.md), [housing market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/housing-market.md), [economic cycles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-cycles.md), [unemployment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unemployment.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/13.md) ### 14. White House Phishing Attack and Cybersecurity Awareness Month (1:14:44–1:18:32) During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, reports surfaced of a Chinese "hack attack" on White House computers, which was later revealed to be a simple phishing email on an unclassified network. The hosts mock the sensationalized coverage by Fox News and the Free Beacon. They also discuss evidence that DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano does not use a computer in her office, relying instead on printed PowerPoint slides and possibly an iPhone. Keywords: [white house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house.md), [chinese hackers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chinese-hackers.md), phishing attack, [cybersecurity awareness month](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybersecurity-awareness-month.md), [janet napolitano](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/janet-napolitano.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [department of homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-homeland-security.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/14.md) ### 15. TSA Opt-Out Games and Priority Line Tactics (1:18:32–1:25:04) Adam Curry describes his "valet service" game at airport security, where he uses coach-class Southwest tickets to enter priority lines and treats TSA agents like personal assistants during his mandatory "opt-out" pat-downs. He recounts an experience at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where he was searched by a trainee not wearing a uniform. Curry encourages listeners to use these tactics to feel "empowered" against the "sheep-like" behavior of other travelers. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [lax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax.md), austin-bergstrom international airport, [priority line](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/priority-line.md), [southwest airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/southwest-airlines.md), [valet service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valet-service.md), [pat-down](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pat-down.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Listener Requests and New Way to Watch TV Website (1:25:05–1:32:12) The hosts process a series of listener donations and "karma" requests, including a shout-out for the website "anewwaytowatchtv.com." Robert Stokes promoted the site as a way to watch AMC shows like *Breaking Bad* online following cable disputes. Other donors, including Thomas Lee and Mac Tudor, contribute to the show's "value-for-value" model, with some requesting "douchebag" call-outs for non-donating friends. Keywords: [chris ruddy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-ruddy.md), mac tudor, thomas lee, robert stokes, [breaking bad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/breaking-bad.md), [amc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amc.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Alex Jones Plagiarism and the "Ask Alex" Segment (1:32:13–1:44:25) A donor known as Sir Joho of Yoho reports on "Pentagon 2.0" in Kabul, suggesting a permanent U.S. presence in Afghanistan. The hosts then pivot to criticize Alex Jones and RT for allegedly "ripping off" No Agenda's format and segments, specifically citing a new "Ask Alex" segment on InfoWars. They joke that they should be more rude to their listeners to increase donations, as the pharmaceutical industry uses fear to drive sales. Keywords: [alex jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alex-jones.md), [infowars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infowars.md), [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [plagiarism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/plagiarism.md), sir joho of yoho, pentagon 2.0, [kabul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kabul.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Wheat Belly, GMOs, and Adam Curry's Post-Smoking Dental Issues (1:44:26–1:49:39) In response to a donor's recommendation of the book *Wheat Belly*, the hosts discuss the negative health impacts of GMO wheat and corn. Adam Curry, who has been smoke-free for 35 days, describes an unusual side effect: dental pain caused by his teeth hitting each other differently now that he no longer constantly holds a hand-rolled cigarette in his mouth. John C. Dvorak suggests using Red Vines as a non-toxic substitute for the oral fixation. Keywords: wheat belly, gmo wheat, [soy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/soy.md), [smoking cessation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smoking-cessation.md), dental pain, red vines, heritage seeds [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/18.md) ### 19. NDAA Legal Challenges and Michael Savage's Radio Departure (1:49:40–1:57:20) Roy Pingel updates the hosts on the legal battle against NDAA Section 1021, which allows for the detention of U.S. citizens without due process. Meanwhile, the hosts discuss the sudden disappearance of Michael Savage from the airwaves following a legal victory against his syndicator. They debunk claims that Savage was removed for "gay baiting," attributing his absence to a contract dispute that has left many radio stations without programming. Keywords: [ndaa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ndaa.md), [chris hedges](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-hedges.md), [michael savage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-savage.md), [first amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/first-amendment.md), [radio syndication](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radio-syndication.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), gay baiting [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Teaching the "Shut Up Slave" Catchphrase to a Parrot (1:57:21–2:01:46) Adam Curry attempts to teach John C. Dvorak's parrot, Skylar, the show's "Shut Up Slave" catchphrase by shouting it through the Skype connection. Dvorak notes that his wife, Mimi, is the "crazy bird lady" and that the bird already makes various animal sounds. The segment concludes with the formal "knighting" of donors Adam Johnson, Frank Ajinsat, and Paul J. Sandowski into the No Agenda Roundtable. Keywords: skylar, [parrot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/parrot.md), [mimi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mimi.md), [shut up slave](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shut-up-slave.md), [catchphrase](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/catchphrase.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [roundtable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roundtable.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Danny Bonaduce Bitten by Fan at Skagit Valley Casino (2:01:47–2:04:52) Former child star Danny Bonaduce was reportedly bitten in the face by a blonde female fan during an appearance at a Skagit Valley casino. Bonaduce joked that the woman might have been a "zombie" or someone suffering from the side effects of the smoking cessation drug Shantix. Adam Curry recalls working with Bonaduce during his MTV days and warns against the dangers of close fan interactions. Keywords: [danny bonaduce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/danny-bonaduce.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), skagit valley casino, [zombie](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zombie.md), [shantix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shantix.md), fan interaction [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Peanut Butter Salmonella Recall and Food Safety Modernization Act (2:04:52–2:12:21) A major salmonella recall involving Sunland Incorporated peanut butter has affected brands at Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and Target. Adam Curry points out the suspicious timing, noting that the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was supposed to prevent such outbreaks through mandatory facility registrations starting October 1, 2012. He highlights a red-bordered notice on the FDA website stating that these registrations are not being accepted, suggesting the outbreak is a "setup" for further regulation. Keywords: [salmonella](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/salmonella.md), [peanut butter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peanut-butter.md), sunland incorporated, [food safety modernization act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-safety-modernization-act.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), biosurveillance, [trader joe's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trader-joe-s.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Elephantiasis Vaccine Campaign in Haiti (2:12:22–2:15:01) The United Nations is launching a mass drug administration campaign in Haiti to combat elephantiasis, a parasitic infection that causes extreme swelling of limbs and the scrotum. Adam Curry criticizes the international community's treatment of Haitians, whom he describes as "human pain cushions" for experimental vaccines and UN policies. He notes that despite high-profile fundraising by figures like George Clooney, many Haitians still live in tents and suffer from cholera. Keywords: [haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haiti.md), elephantiasis, [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md), [george clooney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-clooney.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [cholera](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cholera.md), [vaccines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccines.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Global Drone Proliferation and Autonomous Kill Decisions (2:15:03–2:23:00) Iran has unveiled the Shahed 129, an indigenous long-range drone, as reports indicate that 76 countries are now developing drone technology. The hosts discuss the Pentagon's push for autonomous drones that can make "ethical" kill decisions without human intervention. They argue that the public is being conditioned for this "drone world" through the legalization of self-driving Google cars and the expansion of drone bases in locations like Djibouti. Keywords: [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), shahed 129, [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [autonomous weapons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/autonomous-weapons.md), [jerry brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jerry-brown.md), [google car](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-car.md), [djibouti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/djibouti.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Oil Tax Breaks and Domestic Production Incentives (2:23:01–2:26:14) During the presidential debate, Barack Obama and Mitt Romney sparred over a $2.8 billion tax break for oil companies. Adam Curry clarifies that this is actually a broad manufacturing deduction (Section 199) that applies to any company producing goods in the U.S., including Apple and film studios. He criticizes both candidates and the media for misrepresenting the law as a specific subsidy for "Big Oil." Keywords: [tax breaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-breaks.md), [oil and gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-and-gas.md), [exxon mobil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/exxon-mobil.md), [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [section 199](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-199.md), [manufacturing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manufacturing.md), 2012 debate [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/25.md) ### 26. American Airlines Loose Seat Incidents and Sabotage Suspicions (2:26:15–2:30:14) Two American Airlines Boeing 757 flights were forced to make emergency landings after rows of passenger seats came loose from the floor during flight. While the airline cited a potential issue with seat tracking models, the hosts suspect "sabotage" related to ongoing labor disputes between the carrier and its unions. They note that the incidents occurred on flights bound for Miami from Boston and New York, prompting a fleet-wide inspection. Keywords: [american airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-airlines.md), [boeing 757](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-757.md), loose seats, [labor dispute](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/labor-dispute.md), [sabotage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sabotage.md), [maintenance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maintenance.md), [miami](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/miami.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Iranian Rial Devaluation and Official Exchange Rates (2:30:15–2:39:37) The Iranian Rial has reportedly dropped 40% in value in a single week, leading to protests and shop closures at Tehran's Grand Bazaar. Adam Curry critiques a CNBC World report where the journalist claimed she could not show a currency chart because the "official rate" was "malarkey." The hosts discuss how sanctions are driving inflation in Iran and attempt to find the real-time exchange rate using Wolfram Alpha before signing off. Keywords: iranian rial, cnbc world, [currency devaluation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/currency-devaluation.md), [sanctions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanctions.md), tehran grand bazaar, malarkey, [wolfram alpha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wolfram-alpha.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/449-deficit-pending/chapter/27.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/448-lucy-the-luddite.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/450-lagarde-s-list.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`. - [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt) - [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md) - [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md) - [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md) - [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)