# by Law and by Rule > From the fiery wreck of a journalist's Mercedes to the scripted fascism of beauty pageants, the surveillance state tightens its grip on the American consciousness. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 523 - **Published:** 2013-06-20 - **Length:** 2h 55m - **Topics:** [Michael Hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [PRISM](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prism.md), [Sinaloa Cartel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinaloa-cartel.md), G20 Spying, Brazil Protests, [Dvorak's Law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dvorak-s-law.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule ## About this episode The suspicious death of journalist Michael Hastings in a high-speed Los Angeles car crash raises urgent questions about the safety of whistleblowers and critics of the Obama administration. Hastings, who recently transitioned from a supporter to a vocal critic of drone policy and surveillance, died when his Mercedes burst into flames after hitting a tree, an event Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyze alongside the suspicious removal of Sinaloa Cartel members from the US Treasury SDN list. President Barack Obama defended the PRISM and Section 702 surveillance programs in a high-profile interview with Charlie Rose, characterizing bulk metadata collection as a necessary trade-off for national security. FBI Director Robert Mueller and NSA Director Keith Alexander testified before Congress, with Mueller claiming that Section 215 data could have prevented the September 11 attacks. Meanwhile, reports surfaced that the British government spied on G20 delegates, including Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, by monitoring fake internet cafes. In Brazil, hundreds of thousands of protesters took to the streets in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to oppose bus fare hikes and excessive spending on the World Cup. General Keith Alexander was caught on a C-SPAN hot mic telling a deputy that the FBI director owes him a beer following their joint testimony. The episode also tracks the deletion of Dvorak's Law from Wikipedia and the scripted, political nature of questions at the Miss USA pageant where contestants from Alabama and Connecticut endorsed government surveillance and DNA testing. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak break down the news from Austin and Silicon Valley. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Episode 523 Introduction and Media Criticism (0:00–1:26) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 523 of the No Agenda show from Austin and Northern Silicon Valley. The hosts discuss recent criticisms from the Linux and HamShack communities regarding their long-form podcasting style. They establish the date as Thursday, June 20, 2013. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), gizmo nation, [media assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-assassination.md), [linux](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linux.md), hamshack [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/1.md) ### 2. FBI Arrests Upstate New York Men for Death Ray Plot (1:26–5:07) George Stephanopoulos reports on Good Morning America regarding the FBI arrest of Eric Feit and Glenn Crawford in upstate New York. The men allegedly planned to use an industrial-grade x-ray machine to remotely kill targets, including Muslims and President Obama. Critics point out that the plot involved undercover agents and informants, suggesting the suspects never possessed a workable weapon. Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [george stephanopoulos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-stephanopoulos.md), eric feit, glenn crawford, [x-ray](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/x-ray.md), death ray [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Dvorak's Law Wikipedia Deletion Controversy (5:07–8:25) John C. Dvorak discusses the "Dvorak's Law" entry on Wikipedia, which correlates economic downturns with the quality and price of sex workers. The entry is flagged for deletion due to a lack of notable coverage and reliable sourcing. Dvorak notes that while Google has suppressed the entry, Bing ranks it as a top search result. Keywords: [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md), [dvorak's law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dvorak-s-law.md), [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [bing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bing.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md), [hookers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hookers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Miss Utah Flubs Political Question at Miss USA (8:26–11:35) Miss Utah faces public ridicule after struggling to answer a question from judge NeNe Leakes regarding the gender pay gap and female breadwinners. The hosts argue that the pageant questions are scripted and political, designed to make contestants look foolish. They suggest the contestant simply forgot her lines during a high-pressure moment. Keywords: [miss usa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/miss-usa.md), miss utah, nene leakes, pay gap, [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md), scripted [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Miss Alabama Supports Government Phone Tracking (11:35–13:12) Miss Alabama, answering a question from Wendy Malik, states she would prefer the government track her telephone messages if it ensures safety at malls and movie theaters. The hosts characterize her response as fascist and supportive of corporatism. They critique her use of the word "encroaching" as evidence of a prepared script. Keywords: miss alabama, wendy malik, [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [fascism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fascism.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Miss South Carolina Comments on Leaked Classified Documents (13:12–16:38) Miss South Carolina is asked by judge Christina Milian whether individuals who leak classified documents should be charged with treason. Her rambling response suggests that if the public feels a need to see documents, they should be shown. The hosts compare her performance to a previous viral pageant flub from the same state. Keywords: [miss south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/miss-south-carolina.md), christina milian, [treason](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treason.md), [classified documents](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/classified-documents.md), [whistleblowers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whistleblowers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Miss Connecticut Wins Pageant After DNA Test Question (16:38–21:45) Miss Connecticut, the eventual winner of Miss USA 2013, expresses support for police DNA testing of criminal suspects following a Supreme Court ruling. She argues that such measures are necessary steps to solving crimes in a dangerous world. The hosts mock the response as a "pre-crime" mentality and note the political optics of a winner from Connecticut. Keywords: miss connecticut, mo rocco, [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [dna test](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dna-test.md), [sandy hook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sandy-hook.md), [pre-crime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pre-crime.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Robert Mueller Cites 9/11 to Defend NSA Spying (21:45–25:55) FBI Director Robert Mueller testifies before Congress, claiming that bulk phone data collection could have prevented the September 11 attacks by identifying hijackers like Khalid al-Mihdhar. The hosts criticize the "run down the clock" strategy used by officials during five-minute questioning rounds. They argue that safety is being used as a pretext to quash civil liberties. Keywords: [robert mueller](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-mueller.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [civil liberties](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/civil-liberties.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/8.md) ### 9. General Keith Alexander Hot Mic Beer Comment (25:55–28:24) A C-SPAN hot mic catches NSA Director Keith Alexander telling a deputy FBI director to tell his boss he "owes him another friggin' beer" following their testimony. The hosts question why the mainstream media ignores this exchange while Alexander continues to wear a military uniform despite the NSA being a civilian-led agency. Keywords: [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [hot mic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hot-mic.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), military uniform [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Barack Obama Charlie Rose Interview on Privacy Trade-offs (28:24–32:03) President Barack Obama tells Charlie Rose that surveillance programs involve "trade-offs" rather than a sacrifice of freedom. He compares NSA data collection to airport security checkpoints and drunk driving stops, arguing that society has collectively agreed to these intrusions. The hosts criticize Charlie Rose for acting as a "handler" and prompting the President's answers. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [charlie rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-rose.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security.md), [checkpoints](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/checkpoints.md), [drunk driving](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drunk-driving.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Obama Discusses Syria No-Fly Zone Challenges (32:04–33:47) President Obama explains the complexities of intervening in Syria, noting that most casualties result from ground action rather than airstrikes. He details the risks of establishing a no-fly zone, including the potential for civilian casualties in Damascus and the danger of hitting chemical weapons facilities. Keywords: [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [no-fly zone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-fly-zone.md), [damascus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/damascus.md), [chemical weapons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chemical-weapons.md), [humanitarian corridor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humanitarian-corridor.md), [airstrikes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airstrikes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Presidential Responsibility and Constitutional Debate (33:48–36:35) The hosts react to President Obama's claim that his "number one priority" is national security and keeping people safe. They argue that the President's actual constitutional duty is to protect the Constitution itself, not the public. They also discuss the dangers of a potential constitutional convention to rewrite the founding document. Keywords: [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), [national security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security.md), [charlie rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-rose.md), [pat buchanan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pat-buchanan.md), obamcare [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Chinese Hacking of Apple Intellectual Property (36:35–41:50) President Obama expresses concern to Charlie Rose regarding Chinese military hackers stealing Apple's software designs and hardware blueprints. The hosts point out the irony of this concern given that Apple products are manufactured in Chinese Foxconn factories. Obama asserts that protecting American R&D is central to the US-China economic relationship. Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [iphone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iphone.md), [intellectual property](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intellectual-property.md), [cybersecurity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybersecurity.md), [foxconn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foxconn.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Obama Defends PRISM and Banking Security (41:50–47:24) President Obama credits surveillance programs for the success of the Bin Laden raid and claims the public should have confidence in existing checks and balances. He refers to certain cybercriminals as "yokels" and argues the government must engage with the private sector to protect banking and medical records. The hosts argue that private institutions, not the government, should be responsible for their own security. Keywords: [prism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prism.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [osama bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/osama-bin-laden.md), [banking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking.md), [medical records](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medical-records.md), yokels [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Keith Alexander on Industry Partners and Corporatism (47:24–49:12) NSA Director Keith Alexander thanks "industry partners" for their help in connecting dots to prevent terrorist attacks. The hosts interpret this as an admission of corporatism, which they define as a core component of fascism. They speculate that these partners include major tech firms like Facebook and Google. Keywords: [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [corporatism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporatism.md), [fascism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fascism.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Executive Producer Donations and Knighthood (49:12–51:28) The hosts thank Jan Dubroka from Sharpsburg, Georgia, for a $410 donation, granting him a knighthood as "Sir Dubroka, Protector of My Family." They discuss the "value for value" model and how understanding media deception leads to a healthier life. Keywords: jan dubroka, [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), sharpsburg [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/16.md) ### 17. No Agenda Meetup in Spring, Texas (51:28–54:54) Listeners in Spring, Texas, including Robert Hegedus, invite the hosts to a local meetup. Adam Curry expresses interest in attending if there is black powder shooting involved. The hosts discuss the logistics of traveling to the Houston area for a listener gathering. Keywords: spring, [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [meetup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetup.md), [black powder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-powder.md), loaded guns, [beer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Listener Conversions and NPR Bot Promo (54:54–58:36) Josh Oman from Madison, Wisconsin, describes becoming a listener after a "No Agenda bot" called into his local NPR affiliate to promote the show. Other donations are acknowledged, including a $200 gift from an anonymous IT security worker in Amsterdam and a donation in memory of a veteran who committed suicide. Keywords: [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), josh oman, [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [veteran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veteran.md), [suicide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicide.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/18.md) ### 19. National Go Skateboarding Day Promotion (58:36–1:00:58) A producer named Daniel announces he will be distributing No Agenda CDs at a skateboarding competition in El Paso for National Go Skateboarding Day. The hosts praise the effort to convert "shittisons to citizens" within the skater community. Keywords: [skateboarding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skateboarding.md), [el paso](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/el-paso.md), national go skateboarding day, promo, [cds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cds.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Definition of a US Person in Surveillance Law (1:00:59–1:07:28) The hosts deconstruct President Obama's use of the term "US person" during his interview with Charlie Rose. They explain that legally, a "US person" includes not only citizens but also permanent residents, unincorporated associations, and corporations. They trace the power of the NSA back to Executive Order 12333 and discuss the anonymity rules within the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Keywords: us person, [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [fisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa.md), [executive order 12333](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-order-12333.md), [corporations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporations.md), legal term [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Obama Explains FISA Warrants and Wiretaps (1:07:29–1:11:09) President Obama claims the NSA cannot listen to phone calls or "target" emails without a court order based on probable cause. The hosts argue this is a deceptive "theater of the mind" that ignores the fact that data is already recorded and stored for future retrieval. They emphasize that the government simply retrieves stored data rather than setting up traditional wiretaps. Keywords: [wiretap](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wiretap.md), [fisa court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa-court.md), [probable cause](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/probable-cause.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [warrants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/warrants.md), [metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Section 215 Metadata Program and FISA Approvals (1:11:10–1:15:35) President Obama describes the Section 215 program (which he mistakenly calls the "2015 program") as a bulk collection of metadata from providers like Verizon. He asserts that the database only contains numbers and call durations, not content, and requires a FISA court query to access. The hosts note that the FISA court has reportedly never turned down a request out of tens of thousands of applications. Keywords: [section 215](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-215.md), [metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md), [verizon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/verizon.md), [fisa court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa-court.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Obama on PRISM and Section 702 Programs (1:15:36–1:20:30) President Obama addresses the PRISM and Section 702 programs, claiming they do not apply to US persons and are narrowly targeted at foreign entities. He dismisses Edward Snowden's claims of illegality, insisting that checks and balances prevent abuse. The hosts argue that the ability to pair metadata, such as calls to lawyers or doctors, allows the government to reconstruct private lives without "reading" content. Keywords: [prism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prism.md), [section 702](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-702.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md), [guantanamo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guantanamo.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Thwarted Terrorist Plots and Methodology Secrets (1:20:30–1:23:13) General Keith Alexander claims the NSA has thwarted over 50 terrorist incidents but refuses to provide details on 48 of them to protect "methodology." The hosts mock this reasoning, arguing that describing a plot (e.g., a plan to blow up a bridge) does not reveal technical collection methods. They suggest the number of actual thwarted plots is likely exaggerated. Keywords: [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), plots, methodology, [bay bridge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bay-bridge.md), stock exchange [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/24.md) ### 25. G20 Spying Scandal and British Surveillance (1:23:15–1:27:36) Reports reveal that the British government spied on G20 delegates, including then-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, by setting up fake internet cafes and monitoring phone calls in real-time. The hosts suggest the primary goal of such surveillance is gathering leverage for blackmail, such as information on personal indiscretions. Keywords: [g20](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/g20.md), [g8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/g8.md), [uk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uk.md), [spying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spying.md), [dmitry medvedev](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dmitry-medvedev.md), [blackmail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackmail.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/25.md) ### 26. G8 Summit in Northern Ireland and Syria (1:27:36–1:31:09) The G8 summit in Northern Ireland concludes with a focus on the Syrian conflict and the planning of a Geneva conference. The hosts note the "Potemkin village" nature of the summit, where fake shopfronts were erected in empty towns. They describe the G8 as a "drinking club" of elites who bypass formal rituals to make global decisions. Keywords: [g8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/g8.md), [northern ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-ireland.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), geneva conference, [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Brazil Protests Over Bus Fares and World Cup (1:31:10–1:34:45) Massive protests erupt across Brazil, triggered by a 20-cent increase in bus fares but fueled by deeper anger over government spending on the World Cup and Olympics. Hundreds of thousands of citizens take to the streets in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. The hosts criticize FIFA and the IOC as "elite crap-holes" and note the lack of media coverage compared to other global events. Keywords: [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md), [sao paulo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sao-paulo.md), [rio de janeiro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rio-de-janeiro.md), bus fares, [world cup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-cup.md), [fifa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fifa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Rise of Islamic Political Parties in Belgium (1:34:46–1:40:20) A report highlights the formation of Islamic political parties in Belgium seeking to introduce Sharia law. The hosts discuss the demographic shifts in Europe and predict significant ethnic and civil strife by 2020, following an 80-year cycle of major conflicts (1776, 1860, 1940). They suggest economic instability in 2017 may accelerate this timeline. Keywords: [belgium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/belgium.md), [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [sharia law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sharia-law.md), [islam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/islam.md), [demographics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/demographics.md), 2020 war [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Greece Sells National Assets to Bankers (1:40:21–1:46:02) The Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund is selling off Greek national assets, including thermal springs, motorways, and radio frequencies, to pay down debt. The hosts identify the board of directors as primarily consisting of bankers and MBA graduates. They compare the process to the "stripping" of East German assets after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Keywords: [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md), [privatization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privatization.md), hellenic republic asset development fund, [bankers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bankers.md), thermal springs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Obama's Brandenburg Gate Speech and Teleprompter Issues (1:46:03–1:51:14) President Obama delivers a speech at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, which the hosts describe as a failure due to his visible sweating and stumbling. Media commentators like Chris Matthews blame the late afternoon sun for making the teleprompter unreadable. The hosts argue that a professional should be able to speak from paper backups if technology fails. Keywords: [brandenburg gate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brandenburg-gate.md), [berlin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berlin.md), [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [teleprompter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/teleprompter.md), [chris matthews](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-matthews.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Aaron Burnett Dismisses Government Murder Claims (1:51:14–1:52:54) CNN's Aaron Burnett mocks Edward Snowden's fears that the US government might murder him to cover up surveillance secrets, calling the idea "ridiculous." The hosts point out Burnett's membership in the Council on Foreign Relations and suggest her dismissal of such claims is naive. Keywords: [aaron burnett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aaron-burnett.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [michael hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [murder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/murder.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/31.md) ### 32. NPR Opens New $201 Million Headquarters (1:52:58–1:55:37) NPR moves into a new 400,000-square-foot facility in Washington D.C. costing $201 million. While critics point to taxpayer funding, NPR clarifies the building was paid for through bonds, grants, and private donations. The hosts mock the lavishness of the facility, including its "LED gold" certification and 800-person central staff. Keywords: [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [washington dc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-dc.md), headquarters, [funding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/funding.md), [underwriters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/underwriters.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Donation Segment and Second Knighthood (1:55:39–2:06:02) The hosts read a series of donations and notes from listeners, including a $100 gift from "John Smith" and a $77.77 donation from John Donovan. They discuss ham radio QSL cards and the "value for value" model. The segment concludes with a formal knighthood ceremony for Jan Dubroka. Keywords: [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [qsl cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/qsl-cards.md), [ham radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ham-radio.md), jan dubroka [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Sinaloa Cartel Members Removed from SDN List (2:06:03–2:13:10) The US Treasury Department removes several individuals and entities associated with the Sinaloa Cartel from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list. The hosts link this move to a court filing in Chicago where a cartel member claimed immunity due to a deal with the US government. They suggest this is a continuation of the "Fast and Furious" gun-running scandal. Keywords: [sinaloa cartel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinaloa-cartel.md), sdn list, [fast and furious](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fast-and-furious.md), [treasury department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treasury-department.md), kingpin act [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/34.md) ### 35. US Defense Sales to Libya and Kuwait (2:13:11–2:15:49) The Defense Security Cooperation Agency reports major sales of military equipment, including $588 million to Libya for C-130 aircraft and $200 million to Kuwait for F-18 technical support. The hosts note that much of the billing is categorized as "other" rather than major defense equipment. Keywords: [libya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libya.md), [kuwait](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kuwait.md), [defense sales](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/defense-sales.md), [c-130](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-130.md), [f-18](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/f-18.md), [arms export control act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arms-export-control-act.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/35.md) ### 36. C-SPAN Callers Raise 9/11 Conspiracy Theories (2:15:51–2:21:13) C-SPAN moderators cut off multiple callers who attempt to discuss 9/11 conspiracy theories or the NIST reports during segments on the NSA. One caller expresses concern that being a "9/11 truth activist" could lead to being labeled a potential terrorist under the NDAA. The hosts observe an organized effort by citizens to raise these issues on air. Keywords: [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [9/11 truth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11-truth.md), [nist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nist.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), call-in show [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Morgan Spurlock Joins CNN for "Inside Man" (2:21:14–2:25:04) Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock launches a new CNN series titled "Inside Man." In promotional appearances, he advocates for universal background checks and a database for mental health issues related to gun ownership. The hosts dismiss the show as "a dog" and criticize Spurlock's shift toward regime-friendly talking points. Keywords: [morgan spurlock](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morgan-spurlock.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), inside man, [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [mental health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mental-health.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Piers Morgan Cuts Off Daniel Ellsberg for Paris Hilton (2:25:04–2:26:33) Piers Morgan abruptly ends an interview with Pentagon Papers whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg to make room for a segment with Paris Hilton. Ellsberg was in the middle of warning about the NSA's "abyss" of domestic surveillance. Morgan also offers brief condolences for the death of journalist Michael Hastings. Keywords: [piers morgan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/piers-morgan.md), [daniel ellsberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daniel-ellsberg.md), [paris hilton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paris-hilton.md), [michael hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/38.md) ### 39. Call Center Voice Analysis and Listener Feedback (2:26:34–2:29:02) A listener who sold Avaya switches explains that call centers use voice analysis to monitor waiting customers. He claims that using profanity can sometimes move a caller to the front of the queue by triggering "upset" alerts. The hosts also read a humorous email about the show's impact on a listener's personal life. Keywords: [call centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/call-centers.md), avaya, voice analysis, queue, [listener mail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listener-mail.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/39.md) ### 40. Death of Journalist Michael Hastings in Los Angeles (2:29:02–2:34:20) Journalist Michael Hastings dies in a high-speed car crash in Los Angeles after his Mercedes hits a tree and bursts into flames. The hosts find the circumstances suspicious, noting the engine was found 180 feet from the wreckage. They discuss his recent reporting on Benghazi and his public feuds with Clinton spokesperson Philippe Reines, suggesting a "Clinton body count" connection. Keywords: [michael hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [mercedes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mercedes.md), [car crash](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/car-crash.md), [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton.md), [rolling stone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rolling-stone.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/40.md) ### 41. Michael Hastings' Transition from Obama Supporter to Critic (2:34:21–2:40:19) The hosts review clips of Michael Hastings, noting his evolution from a "swooning" Obama supporter in 2006 to a vocal critic of the administration's drone policy and surveillance of journalists. They discuss an anecdote from his book "Panic 2012" regarding a reporter using a sock puppet to interview the President and the strict etiquette enforced on the White House press corps. Keywords: [michael hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [civil liberties](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/civil-liberties.md), [white house press corps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house-press-corps.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/41.md) ### 42. BuzzFeed's Funding and Regime Ties (2:40:20–2:42:42) The hosts examine the funding of BuzzFeed, noting it has raised $50 million from venture capital firms tied to Obama donors. They criticize BuzzFeed's partnership with CNN and characterize it as a propagandistic organization rather than a true alternative news source. Keywords: [buzzfeed](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/buzzfeed.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [venture capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venture-capital.md), [huffington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/huffington-post.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/42.md) ### 43. Michael Hastings' Final Media Appearances and Agitation (2:42:43–2:50:09) In his final television appearances, Michael Hastings appears visibly agitated while debating the "Bush-Obama doctrine" of targeted assassinations and domestic spying. The hosts compare his "truth-teller" agitation to their own experiences and speculate on the timing of his death alongside that of actor James Gandolfini. Keywords: [michael hastings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hastings.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), targeted assassination, james gandolfini [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/43.md) ### 44. Show Outro and Sunday Preview (2:50:11–2:55:50) The hosts conclude the episode with a summary of breaking news regarding a $60 billion oil deal between Russia and China. Adam Curry plans to see the documentary "Pandora's Promise," while John C. Dvorak plans to see the new Superman movie. They sign off with their traditional credits and a reminder to support the show. Keywords: [pandora's promise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pandora-s-promise.md), [superman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/superman.md), [oil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil.md), [gold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/523-by-law-and-by-rule/chapter/44.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/522-hookers-on-sale.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/524-bono-douchebag.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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