# Assume the Position > A Justice Department sentencing overhaul meets revelations about the Situation Room as the Media Shield Law threatens to redefine the legal status of independent journalists. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 539 - **Published:** 2013-08-15 - **Length:** 2h 57m - **Topics:** [Mandatory Minimums](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mandatory-minimums.md), [Reggie Love](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reggie-love.md), [Media Shield Law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-shield-law.md), [LavaBit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lavabit.md), GCSB Bill, [Sanjay Gupta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanjay-gupta.md), [Fukushima](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fukushima.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position ## About this episode Attorney General Eric Holder announced a major Justice Department policy shift during an American Bar Association speech in San Francisco, directing federal prosecutors to bypass mandatory minimum sentences for low-level drug offenders. Defense attorney Tony Serra and District Attorney George Gascon analyzed the move as a response to the 800 percent increase in the U.S. prison population since the 1980s. The recalibration aims to address racial disparities and the massive economic burden of maintaining the world's largest incarcerated population. Reggie Love, former body man to President Barack Obama, revealed that the president was playing spades in a private dining room during the Osama Bin Laden raid rather than remaining in the Situation Room. Meanwhile, the Media Shield Law proposed by Senator Dianne Feinstein seeks to define journalists strictly as salaried employees, potentially excluding independent podcasters and bloggers from legal protections. In international news, New Zealand Prime Minister John Key faced backlash for dismissing surveillance concerns in favor of snapper fishing quotas, while the shutdown of encrypted email service LavaBit by Ladar Levinson is scrutinized against a backdrop of child pornography search warrants rather than the Edward Snowden narrative. John C. Dvorak recounts his childhood decision to join the Catholic Church as the Assumption of Mary holiday approaches, while Adam Curry details a car battery failure following an intense Austin spin class. The show examines the bizarre audio of Google Captchas that sound like shortwave number stations and critiques the marketing stunts of Lady Gaga as reported by NPR. Executive Producers Sir David Foley and Robert Montoya receive recognition for supporting the value-for-value model. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/transcript.md. ### 1. BitMessage Peer-to-Peer Email, No Agenda Community Adoption (0:00–4:59) BitMessage is an encrypted, peer-to-peer communication protocol that functions similarly to Bitcoin but for messaging. The No Agenda community has adopted the platform to bypass traditional email providers like Google, utilizing a system where addresses are long numerical strings rather than domain-based names. The protocol requires a "statement of work" for sending messages, which serves as a deterrent against spam. Keywords: [bitmessage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bitmessage.md), [bitcoin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bitcoin.md), [peer-to-peer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peer-to-peer.md), [encryption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/encryption.md), [molly wood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/molly-wood.md), [rss](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rss.md), [email](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/email.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Dutch Social Etiquette, Amsterdam Elixir Bar Anecdote (4:59–6:37) A discussion of Dutch social norms highlights the perceived harshness or sarcasm of the Dutch people, which is attributed to their flat speaking tone. An anecdote describes a specific bar in Amsterdam that serves elixirs and is only open on weekends, where the proprietor's blunt demeanor was misinterpreted as meanness by American visitors. Keywords: [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [dutch culture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dutch-culture.md), [social etiquette](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-etiquette.md), [sarcasm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarcasm.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Assumption of Mary, John C. Dvorak Catholic Background (6:37–12:37) The Assumption of Mary is a major Catholic holiday marking the bodily taking up of the Virgin Mary into heaven. John C. Dvorak reveals he chose to become a Catholic at age nine despite his parents' skepticism, though he eventually stopped attending church. The discussion contrasts the spiritual nature of the podcast with the Catholic Church, noting that the show operates on a value-for-value model rather than charging for entry. Keywords: virgin mary, [catholic church](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/catholic-church.md), assumption of mary, piety, [minnesota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/minnesota.md), [religion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/religion.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Audio Captcha Security, Google Accessibility Features (12:38–15:31) A recording of an audio Captcha from Google is mistaken for a shortwave number station due to its distorted numerical delivery. These security measures are designed to prevent automated spam and scrapers, though they are often criticized for being unintelligible to human users. Keywords: [captcha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/captcha.md), [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [spam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spam.md), [accessibility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/accessibility.md), [number stations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/number-stations.md), web security [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Presidential Duties, Article Two Constitutional Limits (15:33–18:10) The specific duties of the President of the United States are defined in Article Two of the Constitution, focusing on the role of commander-in-chief and the power to grant pardons. The analysis argues that the president's primary obligation is to uphold the Constitution rather than general "values." The text specifies that the president may solicit written opinions from executive officers but lacks broader authorities often claimed by the office. Keywords: [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), article two, [commander-in-chief](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commander-in-chief.md), [executive power](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-power.md), [pardons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pardons.md), [militia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/militia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Eric Holder ABA Speech, Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Reform (18:11–28:15) Attorney General Eric Holder addressed the American Bar Association in San Francisco to announce a Justice Department policy shift regarding mandatory minimum sentences. The new directive instructs federal prosecutors to avoid charging low-level, non-violent drug offenders with offenses that trigger draconian mandatory minimums. Holder cited the fact that the U.S. holds 25% of the world's prisoners despite having only 5% of the global population as a primary reason for the recalibration. Keywords: [eric holder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-holder.md), american bar association, [justice department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/justice-department.md), [mandatory minimums](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mandatory-minimums.md), [drug policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drug-policy.md), [sentencing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sentencing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Tony Serra Criticism, Prison Overcrowding Economics (28:18–30:35) Defense attorney Tony Serra expressed skepticism regarding Eric Holder's sentencing reforms, suggesting the move is motivated by the high cost of incarceration rather than a pursuit of justice. San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon supported the shift toward treating simple drug possession as a misdemeanor. Data indicates the U.S. prison population has increased by 800% since the 1980s, with significant racial disparities in sentencing lengths. Keywords: tony serra, george gascon, [incarceration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/incarceration.md), prison population, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), defense attorney [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Sanjay Gupta Weed Pivot, Economic Reliance on Drug Money (30:35–32:27) A theory is proposed that CNN's Sanjay Gupta shifted his stance to favor marijuana legalization as a means to calm the public and inject more "drug money" into the banking system. The discussion suggests the global economy relies heavily on the flow of narcotics capital, and increasing the number of legal users could serve broader financial interests. Keywords: [sanjay gupta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanjay-gupta.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [marijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marijuana.md), [banking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking.md), [drug money](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drug-money.md), [money laundering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/money-laundering.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/8.md) ### 9. California Prison Hunger Strike, Solitary Confinement Protest (32:27–34:41) Thousands of California inmates participated in a month-long hunger strike to protest the state's solitary confinement practices. The strike, which mirrored similar actions at Guantanamo Bay, received minimal mainstream media coverage. The segment references a Dwight D. Eisenhower quote regarding the trade-off between total security in prison and the loss of personal freedom. Keywords: [hunger strike](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hunger-strike.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [solitary confinement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solitary-confinement.md), [gitmo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo.md), [prison reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prison-reform.md), [dwight eisenhower](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dwight-eisenhower.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Ex-Con Employment Barriers, Felony Disenfranchisement (34:43–37:58) The lack of rehabilitation and job training in the prison system contributes to high recidivism rates, as ex-convicts struggle to find employment in a competitive market. The discussion criticizes the permanent loss of voting rights for felons, arguing that the current system focuses on long-term punishment rather than reintegration. Keywords: [recidivism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recidivism.md), [felony](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/felony.md), [voting rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting-rights.md), [rehabilitation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rehabilitation.md), [employment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/employment.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/10.md) ### 11. NPR Corporate Underwriting, Lady Gaga Marketing Stunts (37:59–42:57) NPR is criticized for its reliance on corporate underwriting and for reporting on a "leak" of Lady Gaga's single "Applause" as a genuine news event. The analysis suggests the leak was a coordinated marketing stunt to promote her album "Artpop." A review of Gaga's Twitter feed found no evidence of the artist complaining about the leak, contradicting NPR's reporting. Keywords: [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [lady gaga](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lady-gaga.md), [corporate underwriting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporate-underwriting.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [music industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/music-industry.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Barack Obama Kindle Interview, Kardashian Family Criticism (42:58–47:57) President Obama participated in an interview with Amazon's Kindle where he criticized the cultural obsession with the lifestyles of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. Kris Jenner responded on her talk show, pointing out the hypocrisy of the president attending parties at the homes of wealthy donors. The segment notes the unusual nature of the president conducting interviews with non-journalistic entities like Zillow and Kindle. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [amazon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon.md), [kindle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kindle.md), [kim kardashian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kim-kardashian.md), [kanye west](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kanye-west.md), [kris jenner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kris-jenner.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Political Apathy, Third-Party Candidate Limitations (47:57–50:58) The American public is described as politically apathetic, with neither major party offering inspiring leadership. Third-party candidates like Gary Johnson are criticized for lacking the forceful presence or acting ability required to rouse a crowd. The discussion posits that both Republicans and Democrats ultimately serve the same corporate and insurance interests. Keywords: [gary johnson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gary-johnson.md), [ronald reagan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronald-reagan.md), [two-party system](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/two-party-system.md), [political rhetoric](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-rhetoric.md), [insurance companies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insurance-companies.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Executive Producer Credits, Mac and Cheese Pricing (50:59–59:37) The show acknowledges executive producers Sir David Foley and Robert Montoya for their financial support. A tangent explores the pricing of macaroni and cheese at "Grocery Outlet," where a dinner box was spotted for 39 cents. The hosts emphasize their independent funding model, which avoids affiliate fees and corporate cable disputes. Keywords: [david foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-foley.md), robert montoya, [grocery outlet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/grocery-outlet.md), [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [crowdfunding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crowdfunding.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Reggie Love Interview, Osama Bin Laden Raid Spades Game (59:38–1:04:40) Reggie Love, former body man to President Obama, revealed in an interview that the president was not in the Situation Room for the entirety of the Osama Bin Laden raid. Instead, Obama, Love, and other staffers reportedly played 15 games of spades in the private dining room while the operation was underway. This contradicts the famous White House photograph depicting the administration's intense focus during the event. Keywords: [reggie love](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reggie-love.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [osama bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/osama-bin-laden.md), [situation room](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/situation-room.md), spades, [body man](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/body-man.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Obama Birth Certificate, Reggie Love Commentary (1:04:42–1:12:14) Reggie Love claimed that President Obama had actually lost his birth certificate for a period of time due to his parents' frequent travel and divorce. Love also identified Michelle Obama, Pete Rouse, and Valerie Jarrett as the individuals the president trusts most. The segment discusses the possibility of Obama having a twin and the internal White House debate over how to release the birth certificate to the press. Keywords: [birth certificate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birth-certificate.md), [reggie love](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reggie-love.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [valerie jarrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valerie-jarrett.md), pete rouse, [birtherism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birtherism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/16.md) ### 17. RT Propaganda Analysis, Saudi Royal Family Defection (1:12:14–1:18:29) Russia Today (RT) is analyzed as a propaganda tool for the Putin administration that uses parallel narratives to criticize the United States. A segment featuring Saudi Prince Khaled bin Farhan al-Saoud's defection is characterized as a hit piece designed to highlight human rights abuses that mirror U.S. actions at Guantanamo Bay. The hosts criticize RT's production quality and its use of unknown commentators via Skype. Keywords: [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [russia today](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia-today.md), [putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/putin.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), prince khaled, [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Russian Media Strategy, Fox News Comparison (1:18:29–1:26:16) A critique of RT's marketing suggests the network should lean into Russian stereotypes and hire "hot Russian chicks" to increase ratings, similar to the strategy used by Fox News. The discussion compares the effectiveness of different news outlets, noting that CNN's Jeff Zucker is failing to revitalize his network while British intelligence is allegedly influencing papers like The Guardian and The New York Times. Keywords: [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [jeff zucker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeff-zucker.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [stereotypes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stereotypes.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md), [media strategy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-strategy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Egypt State of Emergency, Journalist Mike Giglio (1:26:17–1:30:27) Egypt declared a month-long state of emergency and a nighttime curfew following the dispersal of pro-Morsi protest sites in Cairo. Daily Beast correspondent Mike Giglio reported being detained and beaten by Egyptian security forces during the crackdown. The hosts express skepticism regarding the severity of Giglio's injuries due to a lack of photographic evidence and his graphic descriptions. Keywords: [egypt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/egypt.md), [cairo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cairo.md), [morsi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morsi.md), mike giglio, [daily beast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-beast.md), [state of emergency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-of-emergency.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Robert Ford Appointment, Middle East Geopolitics (1:30:28–1:36:00) President Obama's attempt to appoint Robert Ford as Ambassador to Egypt is linked to Ford's controversial history in Syria and his alleged involvement with death squad policies. Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin finalized an oil and gas deal with Azerbaijan, signaling a shift in regional influence away from the United States. The hosts argue that the destabilization of North Africa and the Middle East is detrimental to global energy interests. Keywords: [robert ford](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-ford.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [egypt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/egypt.md), [putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/putin.md), [azerbaijan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/azerbaijan.md), oil deals [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/20.md) ### 21. John Kerry Latin America Trip, RT Satire (1:36:01–1:39:22) John Kerry's first trip to Latin America as Secretary of State was overshadowed by revelations regarding NSA surveillance. RT's coverage of the trip included a pun about Kerry "assuming the position," which the hosts use to further their critique of the network's attempt at intellectual humor. Keywords: [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [latin america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/latin-america.md), [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [secretary of state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secretary-of-state.md), [satire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/satire.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Drone Strike Timelines, CIA Double Tap Strikes (1:39:23–1:42:37) Secretary of State John Kerry was publicly contradicted by State Department spokespeople after he claimed there was a timeline for ending drone strikes in Pakistan. The Bureau of Investigative Journalism released evidence of "double tap" strikes, where the CIA targets rescuers at the scene of previous strikes. Such actions are described as potential war crimes, as CIA operators are not protected by the same legal frameworks as the military. Keywords: [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [pakistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pakistan.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [jen psaki](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jen-psaki.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [war crimes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/war-crimes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Media Shield Law, Dianne Feinstein Journalist Definition (1:42:38–1:49:41) Senate Bill 987, the Media Shield Law, is criticized as an unconstitutional attempt by Congress to define who qualifies as a journalist. Senator Dianne Feinstein added an amendment requiring journalists to be salaried employees or independent contractors of established news entities to receive protection. This definition excludes bloggers and independent media creators, effectively creating a "podcast license" requirement for legal protection. Keywords: [media shield law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-shield-law.md), [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [chuck schumer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-schumer.md), [first amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/first-amendment.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [bloggers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bloggers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Electronic Frontier Foundation Funding, Corporate Donors (1:49:41–1:54:09) An analysis of the Electronic Frontier Foundation's (EFF) Form 990 reveals that the organization raised nearly $8 million in 2011, with only $1 million coming from individual members. The remaining funds consist of undisclosed grants and gifts from corporations and foundations. The hosts speculate that Google is a major donor and criticize the EFF for not disclosing its corporate benefactors. Keywords: [eff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eff.md), [501c3](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/501c3.md), [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [transparency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transparency.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Lavabit Shutdown, Glenn Greenwald Snowden Connection (1:54:11–2:00:43) LavaBit, an encrypted email service used by Edward Snowden, shut down operations after receiving a government order that the owner, Ladar Levinson, could not legally discuss. Glenn Greenwald reported that Snowden found the shutdown "inspiring." The hosts question the authenticity of the second-hand quotes provided by Greenwald and suggest a coordinated effort to attack the Obama administration's digital policies. Keywords: [lavabit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lavabit.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), encrypted email, [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Ladar Levinson Interview, Child Pornography Search Warrant (2:00:44–2:05:22) Ladar Levinson appeared on Democracy Now! to discuss the closure of LavaBit, though he admitted he did not know Edward Snowden personally. Research indicates that a search warrant was executed against a LavaBit user in June 2013 for alleged possession of child pornography. The hosts suggest the service may have been shut down due to this investigation rather than the Snowden case, using the NSA narrative as a convenient cover. Keywords: [lavabit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lavabit.md), ladar levinson, [search warrant](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/search-warrant.md), [child pornography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/child-pornography.md), [gag order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gag-order.md), declan mccullough [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Laura Poitras Profile, Peter Maass New York Times Piece (2:05:23–2:13:16) A New York Times profile of filmmaker Laura Poitras by Peter Maass is analyzed as a "positioning piece" that portrays her as an intelligence-like figure. Poitras, who is currently based in Brazil, has received funding from the Menschel Foundation, which the hosts find suspicious. The segment also explores the background of Peter Maass, questioning if his extensive travel to conflict zones suggests ties to intelligence agencies. Keywords: [laura poitras](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laura-poitras.md), peter maass, [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [documentary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/documentary.md), [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md), [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Spin Class Experience, Car Battery Failure (2:13:16–2:16:15) A personal anecdote describes an experience at a spin class in Austin, Texas, highlighting the intense atmosphere and social dynamics of the participants. The story concludes with the failure of a car battery, attributed to the extreme Texas heat, resulting in a $130 repair cost. Keywords: [spin class](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spin-class.md), [fitness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fitness.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [car battery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/car-battery.md), heat, [social observation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-observation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Donor Acknowledgments, Birthday Callouts (2:16:15–2:25:13) The show reads a list of donations and birthday wishes from the "No Agenda" community. Notable contributors include Lon Baker, Derek Foley, and Glenn Riccio. The segment emphasizes the "value-for-value" model and provides "karma" shout-outs to listeners and their families. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [crowdfunding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crowdfunding.md), [listener support](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listener-support.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/29.md) ### 30. New Zealand GCSB Bill, Prime Minister John Key (2:26:00–2:34:09) New Zealand Prime Minister John Key is criticized for his support of the GCSB bill, which expands government surveillance powers. In a press conference, Key dismissed public concerns by claiming citizens care more about "snapper quotas" (fishing limits) than privacy laws. The bill allows the Prime Minister to appoint the judge who signs surveillance warrants, which Key then co-signs, creating a lack of independent oversight. Keywords: [new zealand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-zealand.md), [john key](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-key.md), gcsb, [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [warrants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/warrants.md), snapper quota [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Fukushima Radiation Data, Anti-Nuclear Propaganda (2:34:10–2:40:14) Reports that 300 tons of radioactive water are leaking daily from the Fukushima plant are analyzed as exaggerated propaganda. Calculations based on data from a nuclear expert suggest that the levels of Strontium-90, while 30 times drinking water standards, would still result in a radiation dose far below normal background levels. The hosts argue this narrative is used to discredit nuclear energy as a renewable resource. Keywords: [fukushima](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fukushima.md), [radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radiation.md), [tepco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tepco.md), strontium-90, [nuclear energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-energy.md), [math](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/math.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Cornelius Vanderbilt Biography, Victoria Woodhull (2:40:15–2:44:10) A discussion of T.J. Stiles' biography of Cornelius Vanderbilt explores why the tycoon's history was difficult to document. The segment highlights Victoria Woodhull, the first woman to run for president in 1872, who was an advocate for "free love" and a "magnetic healer." Parallels are drawn between Woodhull and Hillary Clinton's public image. Keywords: cornelius vanderbilt, victoria woodhull, t.j. stiles, free love, magnetic healing, [wealth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wealth.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Airline Merger Denials, Delta Virgin Atlantic Stake (2:44:11–2:47:15) The Justice Department moved to block the merger between American Airlines and US Airways, citing concerns over reduced competition and increased fares. The hosts mock the CEOs' claims that the merger would improve service. Additionally, it is noted that Delta Air Lines now owns a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, as Richard Branson seeks to offset the high costs of the airline industry. Keywords: [american airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-airlines.md), [us airways](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/us-airways.md), [mergers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mergers.md), [competition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/competition.md), [delta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delta.md), [virgin atlantic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/virgin-atlantic.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/33.md) ### 34. California Transgender Bathroom Law, Unisex Facilities (2:47:15–2:49:13) Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill allowing transgender students in California high schools to choose which bathrooms to use and which sports teams to join. The hosts suggest that moving toward unisex bathroom facilities would be a more practical solution to the controversy, noting that such arrangements are already common in Austin restaurants. Keywords: [jerry brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jerry-brown.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [transgender](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transgender.md), [bathrooms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bathrooms.md), [high school](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-school.md), unisex [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Anthony Weiner Campaign, ITN Interview Meltdown (2:49:13–2:53:56) Anthony Weiner's New York City mayoral campaign is characterized by erratic behavior and hostile interactions with the press. In an interview with ITN, Weiner mocked the journalist and repeatedly used the phrase "middle class and those struggling to make it." The hosts compare Weiner to the character Peter Russo from "House of Cards" and speculate on his political future under the influence of the Clintons. Keywords: [anthony weiner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anthony-weiner.md), [new york city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-city.md), [mayor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mayor.md), [itn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/itn.md), [clintons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clintons.md), [house of cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-cards.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Ted Koppel Terrorism Critique, Show Outro (2:53:56–2:57:46) Ted Koppel argued that the United States has created an "industry of fear" that allows Al-Qaeda to achieve its goals through minimal effort, such as shutting down 20 embassies with a single conference call. The show concludes with a final sign-off from Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak, teasing upcoming research on the "war on sugar" for the Sunday episode. Keywords: [ted koppel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-koppel.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [fear](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fear.md), [embassies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/embassies.md), show sign-off [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/539-assume-the-position/chapter/36.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/538-war-on-weed.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/540-tools-of-slaughter.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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