# Odious Selfies > A military coup in Egypt and the rise of drone warfare define a new era of geopolitical isolation as the Obama administration faces pressure from Russia and China. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 527 - **Published:** 2013-07-04 - **Length:** 2h 40m - **Topics:** Egypt Coup, [Power Africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/power-africa.md), [Drone Warfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drone-warfare.md), [Edward Snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [James Comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [Pre-Crime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pre-crime.md), [Agenda 21](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agenda-21.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies ## About this episode The Egyptian military has overthrown President Mohamed Morsi, suspending the constitution and detaining the leader in an undisclosed location. This sudden transition of power creates a legal dilemma for the Obama administration, as a formal coup designation would mandate the immediate cessation of billions in U.S. military aid. Meanwhile, speculation grows that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese interests are leveraging the chaos to undermine American influence in the region. In Tanzania, President Barack Obama launched the Power Africa initiative, a public-private partnership involving General Electric and Symbion Energy designed to double electricity access. This move follows a tense stare-down with Putin and a public marriage proposal from Russian spy Anna Chapman to Edward Snowden, highlighting a perceived decline in U.S. global standing. Domestically, the administration delayed the Obamacare employer mandate until 2015, while the FBI nomination of James Comey faces scrutiny due to his previous board seat at HSBC during a massive money laundering scandal. In San Diego, protester Jeff Olson was acquitted after facing 13 years in prison for writing anti-bank slogans in washable chalk, a stark contrast to the lack of prosecutions for financial executives. Technical glitches plagued the broadcast as Skype unprompted advertisements interrupted a discussion on the viral Twitter trend claiming the United States is 2013 years old. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyzed the psychological toll of remote warfare through the testimony of drone operator Brandon Bryant, who detailed 1,626 kills on his discharge papers. The episode concludes with a rain stick ritual for Baroness Janice Kang and a look at the rising trend of Google Glass selfies. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/transcript.md. ### 1. Fourth of July 2013, Twitter Age Memes, Skype Ad Glitches (0:00–4:13) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the 527th episode of No Agenda on July 4, 2013. They discuss a viral Twitter trend where users mistakenly believe the United States is 2013 years old. Technical difficulties occur as Skype begins playing loud, unprompted advertisements directly into the audio mixer. Keywords: [fourth of july](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fourth-of-july.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), age meme, [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), advertisements [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Egypt Military Coup, Mohamed Morsi Overthrown, US Aid Dilemma (4:15–9:36) The Egyptian military overthrows President Mohamed Morsi, moving him to an undisclosed location and suspending the constitution. Media outlets debate whether to label the event a coup, as such a designation would legally require the United States to halt billions in military aid. Reports indicate the Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court will lead an interim government until new elections are held. Keywords: [egypt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/egypt.md), [mohamed morsi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mohamed-morsi.md), [military coup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-coup.md), [tahrir square](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tahrir-square.md), [anderson cooper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anderson-cooper.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Russian and Chinese Influence, Egypt Fireworks, Anna Chapman (9:36–11:44) Speculation arises that the massive fireworks displays in Egypt were a coordinated effort by China and Russia to mock the United States. Vladimir Putin is characterized as outmaneuvering the Obama administration, highlighted by Russian spy Anna Chapman's public marriage proposal to Edward Snowden. The discussion suggests the US-trained Egyptian military may have been swayed by Russian interests. Keywords: [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [anna chapman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anna-chapman.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Power Africa Initiative, General Electric, Millennium Challenge Corporation (11:44–16:57) President Barack Obama announces the "Power Africa" initiative in Tanzania, a public-private partnership aimed at doubling electricity access across the continent. The project involves $7 billion in US support and $9 billion from private companies like General Electric and Symbion Energy. Critics argue this is a reactive attempt to mimic Chinese infrastructure investment strategies in Africa while the US continues to rely on drone warfare. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [power africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/power-africa.md), [general electric](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/general-electric.md), symbion energy, [tanzania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tanzania.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Vladimir Putin Macho Image, Obama Stare Down, Geopolitical Isolation (16:57–20:18) A comparison of the public images of Vladimir Putin and Barack Obama highlights Putin's "macho" persona versus Obama's perceived weakness. A specific photograph of a tense stare-down between the two leaders is cited as evidence of growing US isolation. The segment notes that Russia and China are increasingly collaborating on energy deals to undermine the US dollar and global influence. Keywords: [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [geopolitics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geopolitics.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Mohamed ElBaradei, US Ambassador Criticism, Obama Inexperience (20:20–24:07) Speculation surrounds Mohamed ElBaradei as a potential successor in Egypt, despite his ties to international groups and US education. The US Ambassador to Egypt, Anne Patterson, faces intense local criticism and is labeled a traitor by protesters. The hosts attribute these diplomatic failures to President Obama's lack of experience and a staff composed of "yes men" like Valerie Jarrett. Keywords: [mohamed elbaradei](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mohamed-elbaradei.md), anne patterson, [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [valerie jarrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valerie-jarrett.md), [egypt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/egypt.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Obama Africa Town Hall, Climate Change, Agenda 21 (24:08–29:05) During a town hall in Africa, President Obama warns that the planet will "boil over" if every African achieves a Western standard of living with cars and air conditioning. This rhetoric is linked to Agenda 21 and global wealth redistribution schemes. The segment also mentions the perceived snub of the Obama family by Nelson Mandela's relatives during their visit. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/africa.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [agenda 21](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agenda-21.md), [tanzania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tanzania.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/7.md) ### 8. South Africa Arrest Warrant, Drone Warfare, RT Propaganda (29:07–31:20) Lawyers in South Africa file for an arrest warrant against President Obama, accusing his administration of genocide and war crimes related to drone strikes. The report, aired on the Russian network RT, compares Obama's actions to those of George W. Bush. The segment highlights the international legal pressure mounting against US counter-terrorism policies. Keywords: [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md), [drone strikes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drone-strikes.md), [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [war crimes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/war-crimes.md), [genocide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/genocide.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Presidential Signing Statements, National Defense Authorization Act, Executive Power (31:20–35:40) An analysis of presidential signing statements reveals that President Obama has used them extensively to bypass legislative intent, despite past criticisms of the practice. Specifically, his signing statement for the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act is cited as a means to maintain authority over Guantanamo Bay detainees. The hosts argue these statements function as a "line-item veto" that allows the executive branch to ignore parts of the law it dislikes. Keywords: signing statements, [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [ndaa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ndaa.md), [george w bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), constitutional authority [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Abby Martin, RT News, Predator Drone Humor (35:41–41:18) The Russian news outlet RT is criticized as a sophisticated propaganda machine that uses attractive hosts like Abby Martin to deliver anti-US narratives. A clip features Obama joking about using Predator drones on his daughters' potential suitors, which RT uses to portray him as a cavalier leader. The hosts discuss how RT blends legitimate criticism with state-sponsored messaging. Keywords: [abby martin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abby-martin.md), [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [predator drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/predator-drones.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Malaysian War Crimes Tribunal, Bush Administration Convictions, Obama the Odious (41:18–45:02) A symbolic war crimes tribunal in Malaysia finds George W. Bush and several deputies, including Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld, guilty of torture. The segment lists the legal architects of the "enhanced interrogation" program, such as John Yoo and Jay Bybee. The term "Obama the Odious" is introduced to describe the current president's continuation of these controversial policies. Keywords: [malaysia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malaysia.md), [war crimes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/war-crimes.md), [george w bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), [dick cheney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dick-cheney.md), [donald rumsfeld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-rumsfeld.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Producer Credits, Baroness Janice Kang, Rain Stick Ritual (45:03–50:01) The hosts perform the "No Agenda" ritual of thanking high-tier donors, including Baroness Dame Janice Kang, who contributed $333.33. A formal apology is issued for skipping her credit in a previous episode. Adam Curry uses a rain stick to send "karma" to California in response to her request for drought relief. Keywords: [janice kang](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/janice-kang.md), [producer credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producer-credits.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [rain stick](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rain-stick.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Executive Producer Donations, Ron Schutjens, Dutch Pronunciation (50:02–55:48) Donations are acknowledged from David Burnef, Big Ass Blonde, and Ron Schutjens. Schutjens, a new listener from the Netherlands, sent a wire transfer of $345.67. The hosts struggle with the pronunciation of Dutch names and discuss a phishing warning Schutjens received while using Google Chrome. Keywords: david burnef, big ass blonde, ron schutjens, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthday.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Google Glass Selfies, No Agenda CD, International Producers (55:48–1:00:00) Dame Francine Hardaway is noted for her use of Google Glass and the rising trend of "selfies." The "No Agenda CD" project by Ramsey is promoted as a tool for introducing new listeners to the show. A donation from Francis Lambert in Croatia highlights the show's global reach and the "change consultant" profession. Keywords: [google glass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-glass.md), [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md), [no agenda cd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-cd.md), [croatia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/croatia.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Texas Weather, Team No Agenda Racing, LinkedIn Credits (1:00:01–1:06:54) Adam Curry reports unseasonably cool 92-degree weather in Texas, jokingly attributing it to "global cooling." The expansion of "Team No Agenda Racing" is discussed, featuring three motorcycle riders and potential representation in the Tour de France. Listeners are encouraged to list their "Executive Producer" titles on LinkedIn to attract professional interest. Keywords: [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [global cooling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-cooling.md), [no agenda racing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-racing.md), [linkedin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linkedin.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/15.md) ### 16. NBC Drone Operator Interview, Brandon Bryant, Psychological Impact (1:07:01–1:11:50) NBC News airs a graphic interview with a former drone operator, Brandon Bryant, who describes watching a target bleed out in high resolution. Bryant details the "accomplishments" listed on his discharge papers, which include 1,626 people killed during his missions. The segment explores the sociopathic nature of remote warfare and the psychological toll on operators. Keywords: [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md), drone operator, brandon bryant, [hellfire missile](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hellfire-missile.md), [ptsd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ptsd.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Drone Targeting HUD, Extrajudicial Execution, Video Game Parallels (1:11:51–1:16:51) The hosts analyze the technical aspects of drone targeting, focusing on the "accomplishments" or data tags that appear under targets on a pilot's display. They compare the interface to video games like World of Warcraft, suggesting it desensitizes operators to the act of killing. The discussion emphasizes that drone strikes function as extrajudicial executions where the pilot acts as judge and executioner. Keywords: [drone warfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drone-warfare.md), heads up display, extrajudicial, [world of warcraft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-of-warcraft.md), [targeting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/targeting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Edward Snowden Syntax, WikiLeaks Statements, Stateless Person Claim (1:16:53–1:21:57) Linguistic anomalies in Edward Snowden's public statements, such as using "the United States have" instead of "has," suggest the text may have been written by Julian Assange or a non-native speaker. The hosts question whether Snowden is actually at the Moscow airport or if the entire narrative is a staged operation. They debunk the claim that Snowden is a "stateless person," noting that a revoked passport does not strip citizenship. Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [julian assange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julian-assange.md), [wikileaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikileaks.md), syntax, [passport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Barton Gellman, Washington Post, Century Foundation (1:21:57–1:27:13) Barton Gellman, a contractor for the Washington Post, discusses his handling of the Snowden documents on C-SPAN with Bob Schieffer. Gellman admits to vetting the slides with the NSA and CIA before publication, agreeing to withhold specific pages. The hosts identify Gellman as a senior fellow at the Century Foundation, which they link to the International Crisis Group and intelligence circles. Keywords: barton gellman, [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md), century foundation, [bob schieffer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-schieffer.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Intelligence Assets in Journalism, Time Magazine, Project Pundit (1:27:14–1:33:37) The hosts argue that prominent journalists like Barton Gellman are likely CIA assets, citing the historical precedent of intelligence agents working within Time Magazine. They suggest that complex investigative books are often written by "minions" or intelligence teams and handed to journalists to maintain a specific narrative. The segment posits that the Snowden leak is an agency-driven operation intended to "tap down" the power of the NSA. Keywords: [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [time magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/time-magazine.md), barton gellman, project pundit [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/20.md) ### 21. CIA vs NSA Rivalry, Church Commission, Media Manipulation (1:33:37–1:39:07) A theory is proposed that the CIA is leaking information to sabotage the NSA and its director, Keith Alexander, due to inter-agency jealousy over funding and power. The hosts reference the Church Commission to remind listeners of the long history of intelligence infiltration in the media. They suggest that the entire "privacy debate" is a distraction from the underlying power struggle between these agencies. Keywords: [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [church commission](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/church-commission.md), [media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/21.md) ### 22. General Martin Dempsey, Military Perks, 506th Infantry Regiment (1:39:08–1:46:25) General Martin Dempsey is criticized for his lavish lifestyle and public appearances, such as singing the national anthem at ball games, while junior officers struggle with sequestration cuts. The 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, famous from "Band of Brothers," is reportedly being deactivated due to budget issues. The hosts contrast the "motorcade and Gulfstream" lifestyle of top generals with the hardships of ground troops. Keywords: [martin dempsey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martin-dempsey.md), [joint chiefs of staff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joint-chiefs-of-staff.md), [sequestration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sequestration.md), 506th infantry, perks [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Michael Hayden on Privacy, William Hague, GCHQ Double Speak (1:46:25–1:49:02) Former NSA and CIA Director Michael Hayden claims that the more Americans know about surveillance, the more "comfortable" they will feel. Similarly, UK Foreign Secretary William Hague defends GCHQ by stating that British intelligence only exists to "protect freedoms," unlike other countries. The hosts dismiss these statements as "double speak" intended to pacify a public that has become complacent. Keywords: [michael hayden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-hayden.md), [william hague](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/william-hague.md), [gchq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gchq.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Local News 33 Meme, Proxy Funding Concerns, Mac and Cheese Trends (1:49:02–1:54:00) A listener points out the appearance of the "33 meme" in news tickers regarding the Boston bombing investigation. Another listener, Patrick, explains his refusal to donate to the show because his money would enter the US economy and indirectly fund drone strikes. The segment also touches on the commercial trend of "gourmet" mac and cheese and rumors of a 2016 Mitt Romney presidential run. Keywords: 33 meme, [boston bombing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boston-bombing.md), proxy funding, [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Ham Radio Shoutouts, Wikipedia Donations, EFF Criticism (1:54:01–2:01:59) The hosts acknowledge several "7413" and "69" club donations, including many from the ham radio community. They advise listeners to redirect their Wikipedia and WikiLeaks donations to No Agenda instead. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) is criticized for being an "icon changer" organization that provides the illusion of activism without uncovering real government secrets. Keywords: [ham radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ham-radio.md), [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md), [eff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eff.md), [electronic frontier foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electronic-frontier-foundation.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/25.md) ### 26. John Markoff Robot Book, Noodles & Co IPO, Depression Food (2:01:59–2:06:46) John C. Dvorak recounts a meeting with New York Times writer John Markoff, who is taking a leave of absence to write a book about robots. The hosts discuss their successful "stock tip" regarding the Noodles & Company IPO, which doubled in value on its first day. They categorize noodles and mac and cheese as "depression food" that thrives in a poor economy. Keywords: [john markoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-markoff.md), [robots](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robots.md), noodles & co, [ipo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipo.md), [depression food](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression-food.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Justin Carter Facebook Arrest, Pre-Crime, Austin Teenager (2:06:46–2:11:36) Justin Carter, an Austin teenager, is held in solitary confinement on terrorism charges after making a sarcastic comment about "shooting up a school" during a Facebook argument. The hosts highlight the "LOL JK" (just kidding) context of the post and criticize the arrest as a "pre-crime" overreaction. They question the lack of available court documents and the suspicious timing of the media coverage. Keywords: justin carter, [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), terroristic threats, [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [pre-crime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pre-crime.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Jeff Olson Chalk Protest, HSBC Money Laundering, James Comey (2:11:36–2:14:35) Protester Jeff Olson is acquitted in San Diego after facing 13 years in prison for writing anti-bank slogans in washable chalk. The hosts contrast this aggressive prosecution with the lack of jail time for HSBC executives involved in laundering billions for Mexican drug cartels. They note that James Comey, the FBI Director nominee, served on the board of HSBC during the period of the fine. Keywords: jeff olson, [bank of america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-of-america.md), [hsbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hsbc.md), [money laundering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/money-laundering.md), [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/28.md) ### 29. NPR Talk of the Nation, Building 7, Truthers (2:14:37–2:19:00) A caller to NPR's "Talk of the Nation" is abruptly hung up on after mentioning World Trade Center Building 7 and 9/11 "false flag" theories. The host, Neal Conan, berates the caller for "scientific nonsense." The hosts note that "Talk of the Nation" was discontinued shortly after this incident, suggesting the network cannot handle "truthers" calling in. Keywords: [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), talk of the nation, [building 7](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/building-7.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Operation Independence, LA Metro Drills, Militarized Police (2:19:01–2:23:41) Los Angeles transit officials conduct "Operation Independence," a high-visibility anti-terrorism drill at Union Station featuring officers in full combat gear and night vision goggles. Authorities describe the drill as a message to "would-be troublemakers" and a response to "complacency" in the public. The hosts characterize the display of force as a form of domestic fascism intended to frighten citizens. Keywords: operation independence, [la metro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/la-metro.md), [anti-terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anti-terrorism.md), [militarization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/militarization.md), [police](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/police.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Diane Sawyer Tipsy, Healthcare Mandate Delay, ABC News (2:23:41–2:26:05) ABC News anchor Diane Sawyer is mocked for her perceived "tipsy" delivery while reporting on the delay of the Obamacare employer mandate. The hosts suggest her behavior is a recurring theme on the network. The segment focuses on the administration's decision to push back the requirement for large companies to provide health insurance until 2015. Keywords: [diane sawyer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diane-sawyer.md), [abc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abc-news.md), employer mandate, [obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), tipsy [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Abortion Legislation Trends, Hyde Amendment, Clinic Requirements (2:26:05–2:32:30) An analysis of recent abortion bills in Texas and North Carolina reveals identical language regarding clinic requirements, such as proximity to hospitals and doctor admitting rights. The hosts argue these bills are not about religion, but about creating a new, profitable market for high-cost clinics that can bypass the Hyde Amendment's restrictions on federal funding. They suggest the legislation is a "blueprint" for a future bonanza in government-funded abortion services. Keywords: [wendy davis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wendy-davis.md), [hyde amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hyde-amendment.md), [abortion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abortion.md), [north carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-carolina.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Planned Parenthood Funding, Minority Rights, Democracy Logic (2:32:30–2:37:51) The discussion continues on the restructuring of women's healthcare funding in Texas and the shift toward "crisis pregnancy centers." The hosts criticize the logic of protesters who claim the majority cannot "roll over" the minority in a vote, noting that this is the fundamental nature of a democratic system. They argue that the political theater surrounding these bills obscures the underlying financial motives. Keywords: [planned parenthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-parenthood.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [democracy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy.md), [voting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting.md), minority rights [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/527-odious-selfies/chapter/33.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/526-meh.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/528-zero-risk-society.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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