# Watergate II > The dismissal of James Comey triggers a media spectacle as global tensions rise from the poppy fields of Afghanistan to the barracks of the German military. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 928 - **Published:** 2017-05-11 - **Length:** 3h 12m - **Topics:** Comey Firing, [Net Neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md), Afghan Opium, German Terror Plot, Windows 10 Privacy, Eurovision 2017 - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii ## About this episode President Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, sparking a media firestorm and conflicting reactions from political commentators. While CNN analyst Jeffrey Toobin characterized the Rod Rosenstein memo as a pretext to stall the Russia investigation, former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli argued the FBI operates on autopilot regardless of its leadership. The dismissal triggered live coverage of Comey’s private jet by Rachel Maddow and intense questioning of Democratic consistency by figures like Maxine Waters. Secondary developments include the return of Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar to Kabul, which prompted a look into the historical ties between intelligence agencies and the global opium trade. In South Korea, the election of Moon Jae-in signaled a shift toward a less confrontational approach with Pyongyang. Meanwhile, German authorities arrested a military lieutenant for allegedly impersonating a refugee to frame immigrants for a planned terror attack. Domestic issues also surfaced as FCC Chairman Ajit Pai proposed rolling back Title II net neutrality regulations, leading to a flood of automated comments and a debate over the efficiency of current network engineering models. Distinctive moments include a technical crisis where the show’s primary domain expired during the live recording due to a declined credit card, forcing Adam Curry into a frantic PayPal renewal. The hosts also analyze the hypnotic structure of John Oliver’s comedy and conduct a formal knighting ceremony for Sir Kevin of Derbyshire and Sir Peter Boekelman. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/transcript.md. ### 1. Windows 10 Creators Update, Privacy Settings and Advertising (0:00–5:04) Microsoft released the Windows 10 Creators Update, prompting users to review new privacy defaults. Analysis of the update reveals that location services and advertising IDs are toggled on by default, while diagnostic data sharing cannot be fully disabled. The system uses an advertising ID to track app usage for "relevant ads," a feature that remains active even if users opt out of personalization. Keywords: [windows 10](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/windows-10.md), [microsoft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/microsoft.md), [privacy settings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy-settings.md), creators update, advertising id, [diagnostics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diagnostics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/1.md) ### 2. James Comey Firing, Media Reaction and Late Night Comedy (5:05–8:24) President Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, triggering a massive media cycle and conflicting reactions from political commentators. Late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart addressed the audience's confusion regarding whether to celebrate or mourn the dismissal of a director previously criticized by Democrats. The event highlighted the role of comedians in shaping political messaging for specific audience demographics. Keywords: [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [stephen colbert](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stephen-colbert.md), [jon stewart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jon-stewart.md), [jimmy kimmel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jimmy-kimmel.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Rod Rosenstein Memo, FBI Independence and Jeffrey Toobin (8:25–14:11) CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin criticized the Rod Rosenstein memo, arguing that the stated reasons for James Comey's firing were a pretext to stall the Russia investigation. Former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli countered that the FBI operates on "automatic pilot" through career professionals regardless of the director's status. The debate centered on whether a new director would act as a political stooge for the White House. Keywords: [rod rosenstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-rosenstein.md), [jeffrey toobin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeffrey-toobin.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), ken cuccinelli, [department of justice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-justice.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Maxine Waters, MSNBC Interview and Comey Credibility (14:14–19:48) Congresswoman Maxine Waters faced a challenging interview on MSNBC regarding her past criticisms of James Comey. Despite previously stating Comey had no credibility, Waters argued against his firing by President Trump, citing the ongoing investigation into Russian election interference. The exchange highlighted logical inconsistencies in the Democratic platform regarding the FBI leadership transition. Keywords: [maxine waters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maxine-waters.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [russia investigation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia-investigation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/4.md) ### 5. PBS NewsHour, White House Defense and Congressional Reaction (19:49–23:17) PBS NewsHour reported on the White House's official justification for firing James Comey, featuring statements from Vice President Mike Pence and Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell dismissed calls for a special counsel as counterproductive, while Minority Leader Chuck Schumer questioned the timing of the dismissal. The report emphasized the breakdown of public trust in the FBI following the 2016 election. Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [mike pence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-pence.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), [chuck schumer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-schumer.md), [sarah huckabee sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarah-huckabee-sanders.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Special Prosecutors, J. Edgar Hoover and FBI Term Limits (23:18–26:28) The historical context of the 10-year FBI director term limit is examined, refuting the claim that it was designed for "integrity." Instead, the limit was established to prevent a repeat of J. Edgar Hoover's era of political blackmail. Comparisons are drawn between current events and the Watergate era, while noting that former Director Robert Mueller's term was uniquely extended by the Obama administration. Keywords: [j. edgar hoover](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/j-edgar-hoover.md), [robert mueller](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-mueller.md), [aspen institute](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aspen-institute.md), [special prosecutor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/special-prosecutor.md), [watergate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/watergate.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Rachel Maddow, Live Coverage of Comey's Plane (26:28–30:20) MSNBC host Rachel Maddow provided live narration of James Comey's private Gulfstream jet taxiing at a Los Angeles airport following his dismissal. The coverage compared the visual spectacle to the O.J. Simpson chase, emphasizing the "unscripted" nature of the event. Maddow also discussed the historical precedent of Bill Clinton firing William Sessions in 1993. Keywords: [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md), [gulfstream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulfstream.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Kellyanne Conway, Chris Cuomo and Huma Abedin Emails (30:22–37:46) Kellyanne Conway appeared on CNN with Chris Cuomo, suggesting that James Comey was fired partly because he forced the FBI to correct sworn testimony regarding Huma Abedin's emails. Conway claimed Comey had inaccurately stated that Abedin forwarded "hundreds of thousands" of emails to Anthony Weiner. The discussion touched on internal FBI friction in the New York field office and Comey's past ties to HSBC. Keywords: [kellyanne conway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kellyanne-conway.md), [chris cuomo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-cuomo.md), [huma abedin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/huma-abedin.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Afghan Warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, CIA and Opium Trade (37:48–41:34) Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar returned to Kabul and demanded the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. This development prompted a discussion on the historical link between intelligence agencies and the drug trade, referencing the movie "American Gangster" and the Iran-Contra scandal. Speculation suggests the current U.S. opium epidemic may be tied to "black money" operations involving Afghan poppy fields. Keywords: gulbuddin hekmatyar, [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [opium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/opium.md), heroin epidemic [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Condoleezza Rice, The View and Russia Hacking Claims (41:35–50:53) Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice appeared on "The View" to discuss the Trump administration's national security team. Rice defended Rex Tillerson's past business dealings in Russia as standard for an oil executive and argued against questioning the legitimacy of the 2016 election. She characterized Vladimir Putin's hacking efforts as an "eye for an eye" response to Hillary Clinton's 2012 comments on Russian elections. Keywords: [condoleezza rice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/condoleezza-rice.md), [the view](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-view.md), [rex tillerson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rex-tillerson.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [michael flynn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-flynn.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/10.md) ### 11. South Korea Election, President Moon Jae-in and North Korea (50:53–55:38) South Korea elected Moon Jae-in, a liberal leader advocating for a less confrontational approach toward North Korea. President Moon expressed a willingness to visit Pyongyang to improve relations and solve the security crisis. Condoleezza Rice commented on the potential instability of a regime collapse in the North and the concerns China holds regarding refugees. Keywords: [moon jae-in](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moon-jae-in.md), [south korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-korea.md), [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), [pyongyang](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pyongyang.md), [condoleezza rice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/condoleezza-rice.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/11.md) ### 12. John McCain, Lindsey Graham and Special Committees (55:39–58:12) Senator John McCain broke with many in the Republican party by expressing disappointment in the firing of James Comey and calling for a special congressional committee. While Democrats like Eric Swalwell and Pat Leahy labeled the move "Nixonian," McCain's stance provided a notable GOP exception. The segment notes the political dynamic between McCain and Senator Lindsey Graham. Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [lindsey graham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lindsey-graham.md), [eric swalwell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-swalwell.md), [pat leahy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pat-leahy.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Vladimir Putin, Sergei Lavrov and Rinkside Interview (58:13–1:05:42) CBS News correspondent Elizabeth Palmer interviewed Vladimir Putin at a hockey rink in Sochi regarding the dismissal of James Comey. Putin dismissed the event as a domestic U.S. matter that does not affect Russian relations. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with President Trump in the Oval Office, a meeting documented by Russian state media after American reporters were excluded. Keywords: [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [sergei lavrov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sergei-lavrov.md), [elizabeth palmer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-palmer.md), [sochi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sochi.md), [rex tillerson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rex-tillerson.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/13.md) ### 14. No Agenda Producer Credits, Donations and Hypernormalization (1:05:42–1:15:31) The hosts acknowledge high-tier donors including Sir Onimus, who contributed the value of one ounce of gold, and Jordan Goodfellow. A discussion of the Adam Curtis documentary "Hypernormalization" highlights its exploration of Libya, Syria, and the influence of Henry Kissinger. The segment includes "de-douching" rituals for listeners who have received value from the show without contributing. Keywords: [sironymous](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sironymous.md), jordan goodfellow, [adam curtis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curtis.md), hypernormalization, [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Knighting Ceremonies, Travel Karma and Climate Haikus (1:15:33–1:26:41) Several listeners are recognized for their contributions, including Sir Ladyfingers and Jim Burlingame. The segment features a discussion on Michael Crichton's book "State of Fear" and the historical impact of the DDT ban on malaria rates. Various audio jingles are played, including a "Climate Haiku" and a "Mac and Cheese" song requested by producers. Keywords: [neil degrasse tyson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neil-degrasse-tyson.md), kiki, [michael crichton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-crichton.md), [ddt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ddt.md), [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Mother's Day Donations, Ronald Conan-bear and Show Logistics (1:26:42–1:32:37) The hosts read notes from donors contributing in honor of Mother's Day and James Comey. Ronald Noren calls out his co-workers as "douchebags" for listening without donating. The segment includes various "money shot" jingles and a discussion of the upcoming Mother's Day show schedule. Keywords: mothers day, ronald noren, tim koster, xavier hacking, whoopie goldberg [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Domain Name Expiry, Technical Difficulties and PayPal (1:32:39–1:34:52) During the live recording, the hosts discover that a primary show domain expired due to a declined credit card following a change of address. Adam Curry describes the frantic process of attempting to renew the domain via PayPal while simultaneously managing the podcast's audio elements. The issue was eventually resolved with assistance from the show's technical back-channel. Keywords: [dns](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dns.md), domain renewal, [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [void zero](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/void-zero.md), [technical support](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/technical-support.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Tim Kaine, Sally Yates and Executive Authority (1:34:53–1:39:34) Senator Tim Kaine criticized the firing of James Comey as part of a pattern of "extraordinary personnel actions," including the dismissal of Sally Yates. A clip from a Senate hearing features Ted Cruz questioning Yates on the statutory authorization for the travel ban. The hosts analyze the legal distinction between State Department regulations and executive authority. Keywords: [tim kaine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tim-kaine.md), [sally yates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sally-yates.md), [ted cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), [muslim ban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muslim-ban.md), [immigration law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration-law.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Jerry Nadler, Collusion Claims and Fantasy Narratives (1:39:34–1:41:47) Representative Jerry Nadler asserted that the firing of James Comey is definitive proof of a cover-up and collusion with Russia, despite admitting a lack of direct evidence. The hosts criticize this logic as a "fantasy world" narrative. They call for the release of transcripts related to Michael Flynn to provide factual clarity. Keywords: [jerry nadler](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jerry-nadler.md), nancy drew, [russia collusion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia-collusion.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transcripts.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Watergate Comparisons, Cokie Roberts and "Dick" Movie (1:41:47–1:49:21) Cokie Roberts of ABC News compared the current political climate to Watergate, suggesting the press is the only remaining check on presidential power. The hosts argue the comparison is false and recommend the comedy film "Dick" for its satirical take on the era. They discuss the historical role of "Deep Throat" and the technical aspects of the Nixon tapes. Keywords: [watergate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/watergate.md), [cokie roberts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cokie-roberts.md), [richard nixon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/richard-nixon.md), kirsten dunst, deep throat [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Rand Paul, Surveillance and Intelligence Community Power (1:49:37–1:52:48) Senator Rand Paul criticized Democratic hypocrisy regarding James Comey and raised concerns about the surveillance of political candidates. Paul referenced Chuck Schumer's warning that the intelligence community has "six ways from Sunday" to get back at opponents. The discussion focuses on the potential for domestic intelligence agencies to sway elections through "unmasking" and data collection. Keywords: [rand paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-paul.md), [chuck schumer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-schumer.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [unmasking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unmasking.md), [intelligence community](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence-community.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/21.md) ### 22. German Nazi Plot, Refugee Impersonation and Military Arrests (1:52:50–1:57:24) German authorities arrested a third suspect in a suspected far-right terror cell within the military. The plot allegedly involved a lieutenant impersonating a refugee to carry out assassinations of top politicians, including former President Joachim Gauck, to frame immigrants. Investigators are searching barracks across Germany for Nazi memorabilia and evidence of right-wing extremism. Keywords: [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), nazi plot, joachim gauck, [heiko maas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heiko-maas.md), franco a [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Portland Grocery Store Confrontation, Confederate Rug (1:57:25–1:59:42) A viral video from Portland depicts a woman confronting grocery store employees over a Confederate flag rug being sold on the premises. The woman filmed herself accusing staff and shoppers of racism, leading to a heated exchange. The hosts compare the incident to a scripted episode of "Portlandia," noting the extreme emotional reaction of the shopper. Keywords: [portland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portland.md), [confederate flag](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/confederate-flag.md), [social justice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-justice.md), [viral video](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viral-video.md), portlandia [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Credit Card Declines, USPS Address Changes and Spam (1:59:43–2:03:21) The difficulties of updating personal information after moving are discussed, specifically regarding credit card declines for automated services. The U.S. Postal Service's "moveme.gov" system is criticized for being integrated with corporate advertisers like Lowe's and Bed Bath & Beyond. The hosts describe the process as a "seamless scam" that opts residents into receiving physical junk mail. Keywords: [usps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usps.md), [credit card](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-card.md), address change, moveme.gov, junk mail [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Net Neutrality, John Oliver and FCC Title II (2:03:22–2:15:06) The debate over net neutrality returns as FCC Chairman Ajit Pai proposes rolling back Title II regulations. Comedian John Oliver's advocacy is criticized as a misunderstanding of network engineering, with the hosts arguing that "all bits are equal" is an inefficient model for services like telemedicine. The conflict is framed as a battle between ISPs and content giants like Netflix over peering costs. Keywords: [net neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md), [john oliver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-oliver.md), [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [ajit pai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ajit-pai.md), [title ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/title-ii.md), [netflix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netflix.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Hypnotic Structure of John Oliver's Comedy (2:15:09–2:17:22) A psychological analysis of John Oliver's "Last Week Tonight" suggests the show uses a repetitive, hypnotic structure to influence viewers. By alternating 10 seconds of facts with snarky non-sequiturs and cued audience laughter, the show allegedly conditions the audience to associate derision with opposing viewpoints. This 20-second cycle is described as preventing rational processing of arguments. Keywords: [john oliver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-oliver.md), [hypnosis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hypnosis.md), [psychology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/psychology.md), [daily show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-show.md), [hbo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hbo.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/26.md) ### 27. FCC Comment Flooding, VPNs and Billboard Charts (2:17:24–2:19:51) The FCC's public comment system was flooded with automated messages following John Oliver's call to action, with some groups using VPNs to mimic individual users. Similar tactics are reported in the music industry, where fans of Harry Styles use VPNs to manipulate streaming numbers and Billboard chart positions. The hosts express skepticism regarding the "connected economy" and the ability to verify digital engagement. Keywords: [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [vpn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vpn.md), [billboard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/billboard.md), harry styles, one direction, botting [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Television Industry Decline, Ad Prices and iHeartRadio (2:19:54–2:23:30) TV ratings have reportedly dropped 33% in the last four years, yet advertising prices have risen by 20%, creating a "bad deal" for corporations. Major radio groups like iHeartRadio and Emmis are facing massive debt and selling off stations as the market shifts toward digital content. The hosts discuss the "value for value" model as a sustainable alternative to the failing traditional ad-supported media. Keywords: [television ratings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television-ratings.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [iheartradio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iheartradio.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Eurovision 2017 Predictions, LGBTQ Pride and Gay Bars (2:23:32–2:31:12) A listener asks for a "No Agenda" prediction for the Eurovision 2017 finals, with the hosts suggesting France as a likely geopolitical winner. The segment also covers a list of "rules" for straight allies attending Pride parades, which includes warnings against taking photos and using gay bars for "girls' nights." The hosts debate the concept of "appropriating gay culture." Keywords: [eurovision](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurovision.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [lgbtq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lgbtq.md), [pride parade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pride-parade.md), [stonewall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stonewall.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Knighting Ceremony, Australia Trip and Ring Sizes (2:31:13–2:41:11) The hosts conduct a formal knighting ceremony for Sir Kevin of Derbyshire and Sir Peter Boekelman. They discuss the logistical challenges of planning a "No Agenda" trip to Australia, noting the high cost of flights. New knights are directed to the No Agenda Nation website to submit their ring sizes to Eric the Shill. Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [eric the shill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-the-shill.md), [sir kevin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sir-kevin.md), sir peter [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Jakarta Blasphemy Case, Governor Ahok and Sharia Law (2:41:13–2:45:37) The Christian governor of Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (known as Ahok), was sentenced to two years in prison for blasphemy. The conviction stemmed from a speech where he quoted a verse from the Quran to criticize political opponents who used religion to sway voters. The case is seen as a significant indicator of growing religious intolerance in Indonesia. Keywords: [jakarta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jakarta.md), [indonesia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indonesia.md), [blasphemy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blasphemy.md), ahok, [quran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/quran.md), basuki tjahaja purnama [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Cinco de Mayo, Battle of Puebla and Cultural Appropriation (2:45:38–2:49:37) The historical significance of Cinco de Mayo is explained as the Battle of Puebla, where the Mexican army defeated French forces. The hosts discuss a viral video of a "social justice warrior" harassing a man for wearing a poncho on the holiday. They argue that the holiday has become a target for claims of cultural appropriation despite its role in North American history. Keywords: [cinco de mayo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cinco-de-mayo.md), battle of puebla, [cultural appropriation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cultural-appropriation.md), [social justice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-justice.md), [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Pride Parade Etiquette, Cisgender Allies and Stonewall (2:49:37–2:58:17) A detailed memo for "straight allies" attending Pride events outlines six rules, including not treating the event as a spectacle and avoiding bachelorette parties in gay spaces. The hosts analyze the tension between the LGBTQ community and "cisgender" observers. They question the exclusionary nature of the rules given the public nature of city parades. Keywords: [pride](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pride.md), [stonewall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stonewall.md), [cisgender](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cisgender.md), [lgbtq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lgbtq.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), bachelorette party [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Tennessee Same-Sex Divorce, Husband Rights for Women (2:58:18–3:00:12) A Knox County judge in Tennessee granted a woman the "rights of a husband" in a same-sex divorce and custody battle. The case involved a child conceived through artificial insemination and tested the application of traditional marriage laws to same-sex couples. The hosts discuss the legal and sociological implications of assigning gendered roles in court. Keywords: [tennessee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tennessee.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [divorce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/divorce.md), custody, [artificial insemination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/artificial-insemination.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Betsy DeVos, Bethune-Cookman University and Booing (3:00:13–3:01:56) Education Secretary Betsy DeVos was loudly booed during a commencement speech at Bethune-Cookman University, a historically black college in Florida. Students turned their backs as she spoke, following her previous controversial comments regarding "school choice" and the origins of HBCUs. The university president threatened to mail degrees to students if the disruption continued. Keywords: [betsy devos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/betsy-devos.md), bethune-cookman, [school choice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/school-choice.md), [florida](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/florida.md), [graduation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/graduation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Volkswagen Dividend, Dieselgate and Helena Humphrey (3:01:58–3:04:17) Volkswagen announced a significant increase in its dividend despite the ongoing "Dieselgate" scandal and billions in fines. The hosts also comment on Deutsche Welle anchor Helena Humphrey, noting a change in her on-air presentation. They discuss the financial strategy of increasing dividends to stabilize stock prices during corporate crises. Keywords: [volkswagen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/volkswagen.md), dieselgate, [dividend](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dividend.md), [helena humphrey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/helena-humphrey.md), [deutsche welle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deutsche-welle.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Show Outro, Cluedio and Comey Remix (3:04:19–3:12:21) The show concludes with a discussion of the new "Cluedio" studio setup in Austin and a final sign-off. An audio montage features various clips from the episode, including James Comey's "Lordy" comment and Hillary Clinton's "request for absolution." The hosts remind listeners to support the show via the value-for-value model. Keywords: [cluedio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cluedio.md), [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/928-watergate-ii/chapter/37.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/927-meme-fumes.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/929-sologamy.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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