# Something is Amiss in Gitmo and Crackpot Nations > A guilty plea in the Madoff scandal triggers a push for global financial governance while investigative reports link the Vice President to unauthorized overseas hit squads. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 79 - **Published:** 2009-03-12 - **Length:** 1h 35m - **Topics:** Madoff plea, [JSOC](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jsoc.md), Baxter H5N1, [Eurovision](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurovision.md), [Michael Taylor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-taylor.md), AIG payouts - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations ## About this episode Bernie Madoff pleaded guilty to 11 felony counts this week, but the $67 billion Ponzi scheme is being framed as a catalyst for a new global judicial order. Whistleblower Harry Markopoulos and the law firm McCarter & English are reportedly advocating for an International Financial Court backed by the IMF and World Bank. This proposed body would mirror the International Criminal Court, potentially stripping national sovereignty over financial crimes before Madoff's June sentencing. In Washington, investigative journalist Seymour Hersh alleges that the Joint Special Operations Command operated as a private assassination wing reporting directly to Vice President Dick Cheney. Meanwhile, the FBI raided the D.C. Chief Technology Officer’s office, leading to the bribery arrests of Yusuf Akar and Sushil Bansal. Overseas, Baxter International faces scrutiny after seasonal flu vaccines were found contaminated with live H5N1 bird flu virus, while Georgia was disqualified from the Eurovision Song Contest for the political lyrics in their disco-themed entry, We Don't Want Put In. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak break down the week's chaos from London and San Francisco, navigating the confusion of early American daylight savings time. The duo highlights the absurdity of Captain Sully Sullenberger’s new $3 million poetry book deal and the rise of eco-psychology, where researchers at the University of West England suggest that climate change skepticism should be classified as a mental disorder. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Introduction, Daylight Savings, and Streaming URLs (0:07–3:55) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the program from London and San Francisco, discussing the show's "no agenda" ad-lib format and the importance of live streaming for audience feedback. They share primary URLs including noagendastream.com and noagendalibrary.com for listeners to access content and chat. The hosts also note the scheduling confusion caused by the United States moving to daylight savings time a month earlier than the United Kingdom. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [daylight savings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daylight-savings.md), [noagendastream.com](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/noagendastream-com.md), noagendalibrary.com [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Bernie Madoff Guilty Plea, International Financial Court Proposal (3:55–9:38) Bernie Madoff pleaded guilty to all 11 charges related to his $67 billion Ponzi scheme, leading to speculation about his sentencing and safety. A theory is presented that the complexity of the case will be used as a pretext to establish an International Financial Court (IFC) backed by the IMF and World Bank. The law firm McCarter & English, which represents whistleblower Harry Markopoulos, is identified as a primary advocate for this new global judicial body. Keywords: [bernie madoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-madoff.md), [ponzi scheme](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ponzi-scheme.md), [international financial court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/international-financial-court.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), harry markopoulos, mccarter & english [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Madoff Family Cover-up Theory, Global Governance Skepticism (9:39–14:17) A counter-theory suggests Bernie Madoff is taking the fall for a relative, questioning how a 70-year-old former NASDAQ chairman could operate such a complex scheme alone. The discussion shifts to the potential power of international courts, comparing the proposed IFC to the International Criminal Court and the U.S. refusal to recognize its authority over American officials. A prediction is made that the IFC will be officially announced before Madoff's sentencing in June 2009. Keywords: [bernie madoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-madoff.md), [nasdaq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasdaq.md), [international criminal court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/international-criminal-court.md), [globalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/globalism.md), financial predictions [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Future of Journalism, Media Stock Decline, Independent Reporting (14:18–18:41) The decline of traditional news organizations is examined as media stocks plummet and companies lose significant revenue. There is concern that the loss of professional investigative reporting will leave the public uninformed, despite the rise of blogging. The hosts discuss the mindset of modern journalists who are increasingly moving toward independent platforms and away from traditional editorial structures. Keywords: [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), media stocks, [blogging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blogging.md), [daily mail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-mail.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), [independent media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/independent-media.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Building an Independent News Agency, Investigative Journalism Costs (18:43–23:34) The feasibility of creating a user-supported news organization is explored, with cost estimates ranging from $45,000 to $100,000 per reporter annually. The model would prioritize decentralized operations over expensive downtown offices to maximize investigative budgets. References are made to the reputations of the Drudge Report and Huffington Post as successful examples of non-traditional media influence. Keywords: [investigative journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/investigative-journalism.md), news organization, [budget](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/budget.md), [drudge report](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drudge-report.md), [huffington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/huffington-post.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Eurovision Song Contest, Georgia Entry Rejected for Putin Lyrics (23:34–26:55) The 2009 Eurovision Song Contest faces controversy as Georgia's entry, "We Don't Want Put In," is rejected for its perceived political attack on Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The song features a 1970s disco vibe and lyrics that the European Broadcasting Union deemed a violation of contest rules regarding political content. Georgia refused to change the lyrics, leading to their withdrawal from the event. Keywords: [eurovision](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurovision.md), [georgia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/georgia.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), political songs, [european broadcasting union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-broadcasting-union.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/6.md) ### 7. FBI Raid on DC CTO Office, Bribery Arrests (26:56–28:43) The FBI raided the office of the Washington D.C. Chief Technology Officer, an office recently vacated by Obama appointee Vivek Kundra. Two men, Yusuf Akar and Sushil Bansal, were arrested on bribery charges related to technology contracts worth $350,000. The investigation focuses on procurement irregularities and illegal kickbacks within the city's technology department. Keywords: [fbi raid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi-raid.md), [vivek kundra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vivek-kundra.md), yusuf akar, sushil bansal, [bribery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bribery.md), [washington dc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-dc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Seymour Hersh Claims, JSOC Assassination Teams, Cheney Allegations (28:43–30:52) Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh alleged in a recent speech that the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) operated as a private assassination wing reporting directly to Vice President Dick Cheney. Hersh claimed these operations occurred without legal authority and involved domestic activities against perceived enemies of the state. The hosts discuss the lack of mainstream follow-up on these significant allegations. Keywords: [seymour hersh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seymour-hersh.md), [jsoc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jsoc.md), [dick cheney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dick-cheney.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/assassination.md), [domestic surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/domestic-surveillance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Obama Signs Omnibus Spending Bill, Earmarks Controversy (30:52–34:27) President Obama signed a half-trillion-dollar omnibus spending bill containing nearly 9,000 earmarks, despite calling it an "imperfect bill." Press Secretary Robert Gibbs admitted the President did not read the entire document before signing it. The discussion includes Congressman Ron Paul's perspective that earmarks are a necessary tool for specific transparency in government appropriations. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [omnibus bill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/omnibus-bill.md), [earmarks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/earmarks.md), [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [robert gibbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-gibbs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Market Manipulation Claims, Citigroup Leaks, S&P 666 (34:28–35:54) The hosts suggest that recent market rallies were orchestrated through timed announcements from Ben Bernanke and leaked positive data from Citigroup. A specific observation is made regarding the S&P 500 bottoming out at 666, which some observers linked to the "mark of the beast" symbolism. This volatility is framed as a distraction from deeper financial structural issues. Keywords: [stock market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-market.md), [citigroup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/citigroup.md), [ben bernanke](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-bernanke.md), [s&p 500](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/s-p-500.md), [mark of the beast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-of-the-beast.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Worldfocus on PBS, Media Agenda Testing, China Human Rights (35:56–39:05) The PBS program "Worldfocus," produced by the Creative News Group, is analyzed as a potential vehicle for testing specific media agendas. The hosts critique the show's presentation style and its focus on human rights violations in China while ignoring domestic issues. They suggest that such programs often serve as amplifiers for specific policy shifts before they reach mainstream awareness. Keywords: worldfocus, [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), creative news group, [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [human rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/human-rights.md), [media propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Cuba Trade Embargo, Tourism Development, Property Speculation (39:05–43:25) A prediction is made that the Obama administration will move to lift the trade embargo on Cuba within the next 18 months to open the country for American real estate developers. Media segments highlighting "fond feelings" for Americans among Cubans are interpreted as a propaganda campaign to prepare the public for this shift. The instability in Mexico is cited as a reason to establish Cuba as a safer alternative for American tourists. Keywords: [cuba](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cuba.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), trade embargo, [tourism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tourism.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Michael Taylor Appointment, Monsanto Influence, Food Safety Policy (43:26–47:42) The appointment of Michael Taylor as a food safety advisor in the Obama administration is criticized due to his history as a Monsanto lobbyist and former FDA official who approved bovine growth hormone (rBGH). The hosts describe this as a "revolving door" between big agriculture and government regulators. They argue that Monsanto and Goldman Sachs effectively control key aspects of U.S. policy. Keywords: [michael taylor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-taylor.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), rbgh, food czar, [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Baxter International Vaccine Scandal, H5N1 Contamination, Bird Flu (47:43–55:54) Baxter International is under scrutiny for accidentally distributing seasonal flu vaccines contaminated with the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus to 18 countries. The hosts discuss the impossibility of such an error in high-security bio-labs and speculate on the financial motives for creating a pandemic to sell stockpiled vaccines. Baxter's annual reports are cited, showing advance purchase agreements with the UK and other nations for pandemic vaccines. Keywords: [baxter international](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/baxter-international.md), [h5n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h5n1.md), [bird flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bird-flu.md), [vaccine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine.md), [clinical trials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinical-trials.md), [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/14.md) ### 15. HPV Vaccine Controversy, Dutch Resistance, Pharmaceutical Corruption (55:55–1:01:10) The rollout of the HPV vaccine in the Netherlands saw a significantly lower participation rate than expected due to public skepticism and reports of adverse reactions. Adam Curry recounts his experience discussing this on Dutch radio, which he claims contributed to his departure from the station. The segment highlights the high cost of the vaccine and the perceived collusion between pharmaceutical companies and government health officials. Keywords: [hpv vaccine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hpv-vaccine.md), [gardasil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gardasil.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [big pharma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/big-pharma.md), [medical ethics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medical-ethics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Climate Change Denial, Mental Disorder Classification, Eco-Psychology (1:01:11–1:03:57) A new movement among "eco-psychologists" at the University of West England suggests that denying man-made climate change should be classified as a mental disorder. The hosts criticize the use of "bogus exactitude" in rising sea level predictions and the branding of skeptics as "climate creationists." They argue this is an attempt to marginalize dissent by pathologizing contrary scientific or political views. Keywords: [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), eco-psychology, [mental health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mental-health.md), [the guardian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-guardian.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Northern Ireland Violence, C-IRA, Lisbon Treaty (1:03:57–1:08:24) Recent killings of soldiers and a policeman in Northern Ireland are attributed to the "Continuity IRA" (C-IRA), sparking fears of renewed conflict. The hosts question if the violence is being leveraged to push the Lisbon Treaty through by creating a need for increased European security measures. They express specific concerns about the treaty's legal provisions regarding the use of force against protesters. Keywords: [northern ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-ireland.md), [ira](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ira.md), [lisbon treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lisbon-treaty.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Alabama Shootings, Military Presence, Space Shuttle Delay (1:08:26–1:11:34) Following a mass shooting in Alabama where the gunman killed himself, reports surfaced of U.S. military troops appearing on local streets, raising constitutional concerns. Separately, the Space Shuttle launch was delayed again, officially due to a hydrogen leak, though the hosts suggest orbital debris from a "space war" is the true cause. A school shooting in Germany is also briefly noted as part of a week of high-profile violence. Keywords: [alabama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alabama.md), [school shooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/school-shooting.md), [posse comitatus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/posse-comitatus.md), [space shuttle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/space-shuttle.md), [orbital debris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/orbital-debris.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Boeing Aircraft Reliability, 747 Longevity, Pilot Sully Sullenberger (1:11:34–1:16:06) The reliability of modern Boeing aircraft is questioned following several mishaps, including an engine failure at LaGuardia and a crash in Amsterdam. John Dvorak shares an anecdote about flying on a 747-400, noting that pilots find the older models more reliable than newer "plastic" planes. Meanwhile, Captain "Sully" Sullenberger has reportedly signed a $3 million deal for two books, including a book of poetry. Keywords: [boeing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing.md), 747-400, [air safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-safety.md), [sully sullenberger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sully-sullenberger.md), [turkish airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkish-airlines.md), [aviation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Financial War Rhetoric, Pornography Brain Damage Study (1:16:07–1:19:49) Warren Buffett and Jamie Dimon are criticized for using "war" and "9/11" metaphors to describe the financial crisis without identifying a specific enemy. In a separate news item, a San Antonio neurosurgeon claims that pornography addiction causes the frontal lobe of the brain to shrink. The hosts mock the study's findings and its comparison of pornography to cocaine and meth addiction. Keywords: [warren buffett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/warren-buffett.md), [jamie dimon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamie-dimon.md), [pornography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pornography.md), [brain damage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brain-damage.md), [san antonio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-antonio.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/20.md) ### 21. AIG Counterparties, Global Currency Proposals, Kazakhstan (1:19:50–1:24:14) Bloomberg reports reveal that AIG bailout funds were funneled to major international banks, including Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, and Societe Generale. Amidst the global financial instability, Kazakhstan has proposed a new world currency called the "Acmetal," while other groups advocate for a "Terra" trade reference currency. The hosts view these as attempts to move away from the U.S. dollar's dominance. Keywords: [aig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aig.md), [bailout](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bailout.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [kazakhstan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kazakhstan.md), acmetal, terra [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Energy Identity, Carbon Footprints, Light Bulb Regulations (1:24:15–1:28:14) The concept of "energy identity" and tracking individual carbon footprints is discussed as a new form of social accountability. The hosts complain about the phase-out of incandescent light bulbs in favor of "mercury-filled" energy-efficient bulbs that often have automated shut-off features. They argue these regulations remove consumer choice and introduce environmental hazards under the guise of green policy. Keywords: energy identity, [carbon footprint](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-footprint.md), [light bulbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/light-bulbs.md), [mercury](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mercury.md), [philips](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philips.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/22.md) ### 23. AIG Foreign Payouts, Wikipedia Neutrality, Show Outro (1:28:15–1:34:51) The show concludes with a final look at AIG's payouts to foreign banks and the perceived political bias of Wikipedia editors regarding Obama's biography and climate change. The hosts thank recent donors and encourage listeners to support the program through the No Agenda Library. They announce the next live stream for Sunday and sign off from London and Silicon Valley. Keywords: [aig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aig.md), [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [no agenda library](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-library.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/79-something-is-amiss-in-gitmo-and-crackpot-nations/chapter/23.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/78-the-great-daylight-savings-time-conspiracy-or-100-yanni-free.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/80-al-gore-the-most-dangerous-man-alive.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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