# Disposition Matrix > Bipartisan consensus on the presidential kill list and the technical manipulation of the debates define the fifth anniversary of the world’s leading news deconstruction program. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 455 - **Published:** 2012-10-25 - **Length:** 3h 14m - **Topics:** Disposition Matrix, [FATCA](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fatca.md), [Benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [UNODC](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unodc.md), iPad Mini, Ghostery, [TSA](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix ## About this episode The Obama administration faces mounting scrutiny over the Disposition Matrix, a permanent database used to track and target terrorism suspects for capture or assassination. During the final 2012 presidential debate, both Barack Obama and Mitt Romney signaled bipartisan support for the continued use of drone strikes, while DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz dismissed inquiries regarding the White House kill list as non-serious. This expansion of executive power coincides with a 158-page United Nations document from the UNODC that seeks to harmonize global laws against the terrorist use of the internet. Investigation into the Benghazi consulate attack reveals redacted State Department emails and a claim of responsibility by Ansar al-Sharia that spokesperson Victoria Nuland struggled to clarify during press briefings. General Wesley Clark and Congressman Jason Chaffetz clashed on CNN over security failures, while reports surfaced of a suspect held in Tunisia whom US authorities have yet to interview. Domestically, the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) is driving Swiss banks to drop American clients, forcing expatriates to navigate a five-year tax compliance gauntlet and potential exit taxes. Meanwhile, the UK is intensifying arrests for social media posts, and US voters report early voting glitches in North Carolina where machines reportedly flipped votes between candidates. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak celebrate the fifth anniversary of the program by revisiting the four-minute phone call that launched the show in 2007. Longtime artist Martin JJ announces his semi-retirement from the No Agenda Art Generator, while the hosts explore whether podcasters now qualify for the Producers Guild of America. The technical production of the debates is deconstructed, specifically the use of cross-camera angles to manipulate the perceived height of the candidates. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/transcript.md. ### 1. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, US Expatriation and Exit Taxes (0:00–5:13) A discussion regarding the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) highlights how Swiss banks are increasingly shunning American clients due to stringent US reporting requirements. Individuals seeking to renounce US citizenship face significant hurdles, including a mandatory five-year tax compliance certification and a potential exit tax based on net worth. The IRS maintains the authority to invalidate expatriation if a taxpayer is found to have lied during the process. Keywords: facta, [irs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irs.md), [swiss banks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swiss-banks.md), expatriation, exit tax, [citizenship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/citizenship.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/1.md) ### 2. No Agenda Art Generator, Martin JJ Retirement Announcement (5:15–7:28) The hosts announce that frequent contributor Martin JJ is entering semi-retirement from providing artwork for the program. Martin JJ, a prolific artist on the No Agenda Art Generator platform, sent a note expressing his decision to step back while jokingly claiming his dominance over other artists. The hosts invite new artists to submit work for the fifth anniversary and future episodes. Keywords: [martin jj](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martin-jj.md), [no agenda art generator](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art-generator.md), [digital art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/digital-art.md), [podcast artwork](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-artwork.md), [retirement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/retirement.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/2.md) ### 3. No Agenda Fifth Anniversary, First Episode Retrospective (7:28–10:03) To celebrate the fifth anniversary of the program, a clip from the very first episode is played, featuring the original introduction from London and California. The retrospective highlights the evolution of the show's audio quality and the initial concept of an "agenda-less" eavesdropping-style conversation. The hosts reflect on the simple four-minute phone call that launched the production five years prior. Keywords: [podcast history](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-history.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anniversary.md), [audio quality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/audio-quality.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Executive Producer Credits, Fifth Anniversary Donations, Bin Laden Claim (10:04–20:28) A segment dedicated to acknowledging high-tier donors and executive producers features several contributions of $555.55 in honor of the fifth anniversary. Listeners request "de-douching" and "karma" for various life events, including divorces and job searches. One donor references a purported slip-up by a congresswoman on CNBC regarding the status of Osama bin Laden, though the hosts express difficulty in tracking down specific email links. Keywords: [executive producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producers.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bin-laden.md), [cnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnbc.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [de-douching](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/de-douching.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Producers Guild of America, Membership Requirements for Podcasters (20:28–26:03) A listener's inquiry suggests that multiple associate executive producer credits on the show may qualify individuals for membership in the Producers Guild of America (PGA). The PGA requirements for "New Media" projects include verifiable international releases, which the hosts believe the podcast meets. Joining the guild is discussed as a way to access benefits such as health insurance and industry voting blocks. Keywords: producers guild of america, [pga](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pga.md), [new media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-media.md), [credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credits.md), [health insurance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/health-insurance.md), [membership](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/membership.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Benghazi Attack Investigation, Hillary Clinton Emails, Tunisian Suspect (26:03–36:11) The investigation into the Benghazi consulate attack focuses on redacted State Department emails and the claim of responsibility by Ansar al-sharia. Discussion centers on a suspect apprehended in Turkey and transferred to Tunisia, whom US authorities have not yet questioned. Critics argue the administration's narrative is inconsistent, specifically regarding how intelligence was gathered from social media during the event. Keywords: [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [tunisia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tunisia.md), [ansar al-sharia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ansar-al-sharia.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [emails](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emails.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/6.md) ### 7. State Department Press Briefing, Victoria Nuland, Responsibility Claims (36:11–46:22) State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland faces questioning from Reuters reporter Matt Lee regarding the reliability of claims of responsibility for the Benghazi attack. The briefing explores whether the State Department reports every claim made on social media regardless of credibility. The hosts argue that the concept of "competing claims of responsibility" is a media meme rather than a common reality in international terrorism. Keywords: [victoria nuland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/victoria-nuland.md), [matt lee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matt-lee.md), [reuters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reuters.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [diplomacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diplomacy.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Wesley Clark and Jason Chaffetz, Benghazi Security Debate (46:22–56:20) General Wesley Clark and Congressman Jason Chaffetz engage in a heated debate on CNN regarding the military response to the Benghazi attack. Chaffetz criticizes the administration for failing to bolster security after prior bombings in June 2012, while Clark defends the President's actions. The segment also touches on the FBI's delayed entry into the site and a CNN reporter discovering Ambassador Stevens' diary on the ground. Keywords: [wesley clark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wesley-clark.md), [jason chaffetz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jason-chaffetz.md), [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [aaron burnett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aaron-burnett.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Disposition Matrix, Obama and Romney Drone Policy (56:22–1:00:30) The "disposition matrix," a database used by the US government to track and target terrorism suspects for capture or killing, is examined following a Washington Post investigation. During a presidential debate, moderator Bob Schieffer and candidate Mitt Romney both signal support for the continued use of drone strikes. The discussion highlights the bipartisan consensus on drone warfare and the lack of critical questioning during the debates. Keywords: disposition matrix, [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [bob schieffer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-schieffer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Xbox 360 Debate Poll, Debbie Wasserman Schultz Kill List Query (1:00:30–1:04:29) A live poll conducted via Xbox 360 during the presidential debate showed 72% support for increased drone usage among 20,000 participants. In a separate interaction, DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz is questioned by a "We Are Change" activist regarding President Obama's "kill list." Schultz denies knowledge of such a list, dismissing the inquiry as not being a "serious question." Keywords: xbox 360, [debbie wasserman schultz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debbie-wasserman-schultz.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [polling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/polling.md), [kill list](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kill-list.md), [dnc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dnc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Presidential Debate Analysis, Horses and Bayonets Zinger (1:04:28–1:12:17) Analysis of the final 2012 presidential debate focuses on President Obama's "horses and bayonets" retort to Mitt Romney's concerns about the size of the US Navy. The hosts suggest the line was a pre-rehearsed "zinger" that came across as condescending. The segment also notes that the debate competed for viewership with the World Series and Monday Night Football, potentially limiting its impact on swing voters. Keywords: [presidential debate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/presidential-debate.md), [navy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/navy.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), zinger, [military spending](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-spending.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Debate Television Production, Split Screen Visual Techniques (1:12:17–1:16:58) The technical production of the presidential debates is scrutinized, specifically the use of split-screen shots where candidates appear to look away from each other. The hosts analyze how cross-camera angles and chair heights are used to manipulate the perceived physical stature of the candidates. They suggest these production choices are intentional efforts by networks to influence viewer perception of the candidates' authority. Keywords: [television production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television-production.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), split screen, [camera angles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/camera-angles.md), [abc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abc-news.md), visual bias [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Constitutional Responsibility, Early Voting and Machine Glitches (1:16:58–1:21:39) A critique of both Barack Obama and Mitt Romney argues that neither candidate correctly identifies the President's primary job as defending the Constitution. The segment also covers reports of early voting glitches in North Carolina, where a voter claimed a machine switched a vote from Romney to Obama. The hosts discuss the institutionalization of early voting and its implications for election integrity. Keywords: [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), [early voting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/early-voting.md), [voter fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voter-fraud.md), [north carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-carolina.md), [voting machines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting-machines.md), [gary johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gary-johnson.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Larry O'Donnell on NDAA, Third Party Exclusion, Electoral College (1:21:40–1:29:42) MSNBC host Larry O'Donnell criticizes the exclusion of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and its indefinite detention provisions from the major party debates. O'Donnell argues that the two-party system and the Electoral College disenfranchise voters in non-swing states. John Dvorak predicts that the Electoral College will eventually be abolished in favor of a popular vote to satisfy media advertising interests. Keywords: larry o'donnell, [ndaa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ndaa.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [electoral college](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electoral-college.md), third parties, [gary johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gary-johnson.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/14.md) ### 15. UK Free Speech Restrictions, Social Media Arrests (1:29:43–1:34:39) Several instances of arrests in the United Kingdom for social media posts and T-shirt slogans highlight tightening restrictions on free speech. Cases include a man jailed for an anti-police T-shirt and individuals prosecuted for "crude jokes" on Twitter and Facebook. The hosts discuss how "being mean" or using offensive nicknames is becoming criminalized under the guise of preventing bullying and harassment. Keywords: [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [free speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [manchester](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manchester.md), [arrests](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arrests.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/15.md) ### 16. UNODC Document, Internet for Terrorist Purposes, Global Law Harmonization (1:34:39–1:45:07) A 158-page document from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) outlines strategies for member states to harmonize laws regarding the "terrorist use of the internet." The document classifies propaganda, financing, and training as key terrorist activities, while suggesting that "legitimate advocacy" is a subjective assessment. The hosts warn that these guidelines will lead to global crackdowns on dissent and "xenophobic" speech online. Keywords: [unodc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unodc.md), [ban ki-moon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ban-ki-moon.md), [agenda 21](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agenda-21.md), [cybercrime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybercrime.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Richard Mourdock Rape Comments, White House Staffing Rumors (1:45:07–1:46:38) Republican Senate candidate Richard Mourdock faces backlash for comments regarding abortion and rape, stating that life resulting from such circumstances is "something that God intended." The hosts view the controversy as political theater. Additionally, rumors are discussed suggesting that White House staffers are already interviewing for jobs in Chicago in anticipation of a potential administration change. Keywords: richard mourdock, [indiana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indiana.md), [abortion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abortion.md), [rape](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rape.md), [white house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Apple Product Launch, iPad Mini, iOS 6 Data Issues (1:46:38–1:51:51) The recent Apple product launch featuring the iPad Mini is critiqued for its marketing language and perceived lack of innovation. Tim Cook and Jony Ive are mocked for their presentation style, which the hosts compare to Steve Jobs. The segment also mentions ongoing data usage bugs in iOS 6 that are reportedly costing users money, as well as the competitive landscape involving the Samsung Galaxy Note. Keywords: [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [tim cook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tim-cook.md), [jony ive](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jony-ive.md), ipad mini, [ios 6](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ios-6.md), galaxy note [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Marissa Mayer at Yahoo, Ghostery and Ad Tracking (1:51:52–1:56:03) Marissa Mayer's leadership at Yahoo is discussed with cautious optimism regarding the company's mobile interface and search results. The conversation shifts to aggressive internet ad tracking, specifically "retargeting" experienced after visiting the ScottVest website. The hosts recommend the Ghostery browser extension to help users identify and block the numerous trackers used by major tech news sites. Keywords: [marissa mayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marissa-mayer.md), [yahoo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yahoo.md), ghostery, ad tracking, scottvest, [retargeting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/retargeting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Face Slapping Therapy, TSA Backscatter Radiation Concerns (1:56:03–2:00:36) A "face slapping" beauty practitioner from Thailand charging $350 per session is featured in a news clip from ABC. The discussion then moves to the TSA's replacement of backscatter X-ray machines with millimeter-wave scanners. A CBS News segment is mocked for its "expert" Dr. Jennifer Ashton repeatedly referring to the technology as a "backscanner" while downplaying cancer risks. Keywords: face slapping, [thailand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thailand.md), [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [backscatter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/backscatter.md), [radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radiation.md), [jennifer ashton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jennifer-ashton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Anniversary Donations, Vasectomy Karma, Suicide Code on Dutch Trains (2:00:43–2:15:47) A large volume of listener donations is processed, with many contributors giving $69.69 or $55.55. One listener requests "karma" for an upcoming vasectomy, leading to a discussion about the procedure. Adam Curry shares an anecdote from his time in the Netherlands, explaining that "overhead wire problems" on Dutch trains are often a euphemism for track suicides. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [vasectomy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vasectomy.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [trains](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trains.md), [suicide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicide.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Listener Birthdays, Knighting Ceremony, Host Partnership Reflection (2:15:47–2:27:59) The hosts conduct a formal knighting ceremony for several high-value donors, including Sir Jonathan Spiry and Sir David Ross. They celebrate various listener birthdays and reflect on their five-year partnership. Both hosts emphasize that the "chemical balance" and "team analysis" approach are essential to the show's success, dismissing suggestions that either should produce the program solo. Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [partnership](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/partnership.md), team analysis, [anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anniversary.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Final Anniversary Credits, Green Card Immunization Requirements (2:28:00–2:41:58) The final segment of the anniversary show continues with donor credits and a discussion on US immigration health requirements. It is noted that individuals applying for a green card (Form I-485) must undergo a battery of immunizations, including MMR, Polio, and Hepatitis B. The hosts express concern over the mandatory nature of these shots for residency and university enrollment. Keywords: [green card](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-card.md), immunizations, [vaccines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccines.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [mumps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mumps.md), [measles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/measles.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Final Donor Roll, Ford Focus Electric, Show Sign-off (2:42:00–3:13:54) The episode concludes with a lengthy reading of anniversary donations from around the world, including Singapore, Germany, and Canada. John Dvorak mentions an upcoming review of the Ford Focus Electric and his goal to test the Fisker Karma. The hosts sign off by thanking the audience for five years of support and promising a return on Sunday for further news deconstruction. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), ford focus electric, [fisker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisker.md), [ham radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ham-radio.md), [anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anniversary.md), [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/455-disposition-matrix/chapter/24.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/454-going-purple.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/456-sell-ah-bretties.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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