Podcasts about blaming

Is Diana the jerk for blaming her kids for the couch stain? full 790 Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:51:25 +0000 aAMaG3wMUk64K99ZYrWBG26QVIHr2iA0 society & culture Alley and DZ on demand society & culture Is Diana the jerk for blaming her kids for the couch stain? If you missed Alley and DZ this morning on 103.7 KISS-FM – you can catch up with the show here! Every show. Every day. No commercials, no music.    2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Society & Culture False https://player.amperwavepodcastin

The Queensland Maroons level the 2025 State of Origin Series 1-1 as the Sideline Story panel give their immediate reactions to the game in another late night edition episode, as well as analyse the Fox Sports player ratings… In our Bunker Review segment, the boys discuss the Billy Slater vs. Aaron Woods drama… We end the episode with a wrap-up of Round 15 of the NRL and Round 14 of the Super League.——TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Intro 02:28 - Episode Overview03:41 - SOO Game Two: QLD def. NSW (26-24)50:02 - SOO Game Two: QLD Player Ratings1:03:54 - SOO Game Two: NSW Player Ratings1:22:20 - Bunker Review: Billy Slater vs. Aaron Woods1:36:29 - NRL Round 15 Review + Ladder update1:53:40 - NRL Rapid Fire Tips: Round 161:55:05 - ATG: Super League Round 14 results1:57:00 - Outro——Click the link to follow us on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok, check out our sponsors, or to listen on your preferred podcasting platform:https://linktr.ee/thesidelinestoryrlpodcast——Proudly sponsored by:* ADSE Apparel* Best Sport 2.0* Good Guys Mowing* rugbyleague.com ——Hosted by Daniel Tassone, Nicholas Guild & Ryan Clarke.Podcast mixed by Daniel Tassone using Garageband.Podcast distributed to all major listening apps using Spotify for Podcasters.Music credit for this episode: ‘Chase' [prod. Yrii Semchyshyn from Pixabay].——Logo designed by Tahlia Zaccomer.© The Sideline Story: Rugby League Podcast, 2021.——“You're listening to The Sideline Story Rugby League Podcast: The Greatest View of Rugby League from the Sideline”

Have you had someone do something pretty shitty to you? Your dad wasn't a great dad? Your mum wasn't supportive? Your ex cheated on you? The kids at school bullied you? The government lockdown caused your business to fail? Everyone has some story and most people are holding onto anger, resentment, blame and hate towards these people. I hated someone for 15 years of my life, I blamed them. And the day I decided to let it go was THE turning point in my life. In today's episode of my podcast I talk about how holding onto anger, hate, blame, resentment towards someone/people is screwing up your life. Whether you're aware of it or not, it is. It's time to let it go and move on, life gets good when you do. Make sure you subscribe to my podcast to stay up to date with episodes I release every week. If you loved this episode, I'd be super grateful if you could leave me a review which helps me spread this podcast out to more amazing people just like you :) HERE'S WHERE YOU CAN FOLLOW ME: Instagram: @luke_page    

Today on the Clive Holland Show with it being National Blame Someone Else Day tommorow, We were talking all about blame! We were asking who are you blaming this week and why? From site shananagens to van mishaps we heard your best storys about pointing the finger at anyone but yourself! Plus theres also the pub lunch quiz for your chance to grab yourself 6 points and youll here the very best messages which we recived!

Jimmy Monologue – Jon Stewart Blaming Trump for L.A. Riots Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host Paul Pacelli opened Tuesday's edition of "Connecticut Today" with remarks from State Attorney General William Tong and Gov. Ned Lamont regarding the deployment of National Guard and U.S. Marine troops to Los Angeles (00:52). Landmark Legal Foundation Vice-President of Legal Affairs Mike O'Neill talked about the likely challenges to President Trump's deployment of military personnel to Los Angeles (16:38). Connecticut Conference of Municipalities Executive Director and CEO Joe DeLong talked about this year's General Assembly session and a controversial housing bill that Gov. Ned Lamont is threatening to veto (23:00). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio talked about ongoing issues for Connecticut electric customers and last week's conclusion of the General Assembly's session (28:30) Image Credit: REUTERS

Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks about Gavin Newsom telling Brian Tyler Cohen and MSNBC's Jacob Soboroff why the Los Angeles ICE riots are the fault of Donald Trump; Elon Musk's reaction to the ICE protests in Los Angeles blowing up into full blow riots featuring cars on fire and looting; LA Mayor Karen Bass contradicting the LA Police Cheif on CNN about the need for the National Guard to help control the ICE riots; Maxine Waters having a door slammed in her face as she tried to enter a federal building; Senator Markwayne Mullin giving CNN's Dana Bash a brutal dose of reality about the origin of the ICE riots in Los Angeles; Bill Maher trying to convince the NELK Boys' Kyle Forgeard on the “Full Send Podcast why Republicans are more dangerous than Democrats; Simone Biles getting into a Twitter fight with Riley Gaines over transgender athletes in women's sports; Elon Musk responding to JD Vance telling Theo Von on “This Past Weekend” why there still may hope for Donald Trump and Musk's relationship; and much more. WATCH the MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE segment of the show here: https://rubinreport.locals.com/ Check out the NEW RUBIN REPORT MERCH here: https://daverubin.store/   Today's Sponsors: GoldCo - Protect your money with gold and silver during these unstable times. Get UNLIMITED bonus silver on all qualified orders, just for getting started. You'll also get a complimentary 2025 Gold & Silver Kit to help you make a decision. Go to: http://davelikesgold.com/ Gravity Defyer - Sick of knee pain? Get Gravity Defyer shoes. Minimize the shock waves that normal shoes absorb through your feet, knees and hips with every step. Use the promo code "RUBIN30" at checkout, to get an extra 30% off orders over $120 or more. Just text RUBIN30 to 91888 or go to: http://gdefy.com and Use the promo code "RUBIN30" Ground News - Avoid the agenda-driven narratives and outright manipulation of the facts from Mainstream Media. Ground News is not a news publisher, they are an independent app and website that simply aggregates every source on a story, so you can compare coverage and see through mainstream media spin. Rubin Report viewers get 40% off their best plan Go to: https://Ground.News/Rubin

Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky have experienced a disastrous start to the WNBA season. While most people can clearly see that Angel Reese is struggling...Angel Reese continues to escape blame. Instead...Angel Reese fans are blaming coach Tyler Marsh and calling for him to be fired. We react to Angel Reese fans...calling for Tyler Marsh to be fired. We provide a recent video of Candace Parker...explaining why Tyler Marsh is not the problem in Chicago. We question why Angel Reese continues to escape blame...and explain why Angel Reese has become a comedy act in the WNBA. USE PROMO CODE BTL20 TO SAVE 20% WITH SUGAR MOUNTAIN TRADING: https://sugarmountaintrading.com

I am all for staying informed, but do not allow your cycle to be the reason you think 2/4 weeks of the month suck...WE ARE BUILT TO HANDLE THIS GF !!!  Connect with me on Instagram: @allisonlloydfit Follow me on TikTok: allisonlloydfit Apply to work with our team 1:1 HERE For more daily education, join our free Facebook Community

Blaming others. Blaming the system. Blaming the president. Blaming Them (as in Us vs. Them). Blaming your parents. Blaming your partner. Blaming your siblings. Blaming Spirit. Blaming humanity. Blaming everyone. And finally, blaming yourself. The work with medicine is radical. Revolutionary. It asks big things of you. It asks you to forgive. To find compassion and love. To stop making it all about you. To see with new eyes. To open to writing a new story. One where blame becomes an opportunity to reclaim your sovereignty.Blame keeps you trapped in a cycle of victimhood. But when you gather up your energy and your agency, and choose to make your trauma and difficulty part of your hero's journey, the train starts moving again. On this week's show, learn how to take that main character energy back and star in your own hero's journey where you are transformed, alive, resourced, and HAPPY.WORK WITH SINCLAIRNEST Group Integration Membership - https://sinclairfleetwood.com/nest1:1 Private Coaching - https://sinclairfleetwood.com/psychedelic-integrationSubscribe to The Visionary Within weekly newsletter - https://mystical-heart-collective.kit.com/5623fed941FREE Ultimate Guide to Healing with Psychedelics: https://mystical-heart-collective.kit.com/ultimate-guideRetreats: https://sinclairfleetwood.com/events

Did I Do Enough? A Deep Dive into Daily Reflection Ever catch yourself at the end of the day wondering, "Did I do enough?" Here's the thing - having the courage to answer that question honestly is where real growth begins. In this episode, I'm getting vulnerable about my own journey with this question. Some days I'm flying high, crushing goals and feeling unstoppable. Other days? Well, let's just say they feel like I'm moving through quicksand. Sound familiar? The beautiful truth is this: you are more than what you think you are, even on those challenging days. But here's what I've discovered - the difference between those breakthrough days and the struggle days often comes down to one simple thing: intention. When I set my intentions the night before, something magical happens. I wake up with clarity instead of confusion, purpose instead of procrastination. It's like giving your mind a roadmap before it even opens its eyes. What you'll discover in this episode: The simple ritual that transforms scattered days into focused ones Why your morning state of mind is everything (and how to master it) The art of honest reflection - learning from both your wins and your wobbles How to celebrate the small victories that actually create the big transformations Look, mastery is simply doing what you know and knowing what you do. And when you can honestly say "yes" to "Did I do enough?" - that's when you start to feel happy for no reason. Ready to take ownership of your days and create a ritual that actually works? Oh, and I've got some practical bits and bobs too. Tools you can use right now to gently take charge of your day — and reflect with pride instead of pressure. Because the truth is — the question “Did I do enough?” isn't here to judge you. It's an invitation to learn, tweak, and grow. So, if you're ready to start ending your days with a quiet, confident “yes…” Come have a listen and then share what you learn https://personaldevelopmentunplugged.com/446-did-i-do-enough-really/ ‎ With you all the way, Shine Brightly

Macron says he and his wife were 'just joking,' denying a fight and blaming disinformation by Radio Islam

Christian chats with Nat "Gordo" Gordon from the "Play Tessie" podcast to talk more about the Red Sox, the level of blame to give to Alex Cora, and how they can turn things around with lots of season left.

We're tackling an issue that holds so many of us back—self-blame. Why do we blame ourselves for things that aren't our fault? And when should we take responsibility versus when should we let it go? Here are strategies for both. Free book to answer 99% of quesitons about how to legally fly with your dog or be in Housing with you with no fees or restrictions and access public places under ADA law. Training from Joanne S. Williams, LCSW. A 30-second free guide to see if you qualify at ServiceDogPro.com!   Free 30 minute focus call with Joanne to talk about what would work best for you for your emotional health. Get the Free- Workbook to turn your negitive "What Ifs" in positive possibilities  

Are Schools Blaming Martial Arts For Rises in ViolenceJoin our Tul World+ program where you get exclusive videos on patterns, techniques as well as special discounts on upcoming seminars!https://tulworld.com/info-tulworldplusSchedule a free in-person Taekwon-Do trial class at https://www.juestkd.com/more-infoAdd us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juestaekwondo/

Are betting apps liable?   To advertise on our podcast, please reach out to sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/TheJeffWardShow

Feeling extra tired lately? Waking up and… feeling old?? In today's episode, I'm breaking down the biggest drivers behind your energy, vitality, stamina, and resilience. You'll learn the five key areas that shape how young or old you feel, how to tell the difference between true aging and reversible symptoms, simple shifts to restore your energy, and where to start if you're feeling completely wiped out.First things first—if you've been saying “I feel old” or “aging is the worst,” stop! Instead, get curious: What exactly makes you feel that way? Better yet, ask yourself what habits might be making you feel that way. Blaming age lets us off the hook—and keeps us stuck.Here are five truths about feeling old and ways to combat those feelings:1. Symptoms vs. Signs of AgingMany so-called “aging” symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, low energy) are actually reversible. Mitochondrial function plays a big role here.2. Exercise & CirculationNot all movement is equal. Real exercise, like steady cardio, intervals, and strength training, boosts circulation and energy. Use heart rate tracking to make sure your workouts count.3. Sleep Quality > QuantitySleep is a skill. Things like caffeine, alcohol, and lack of strength training can wreck your sleep. Focus on improving quality, not just getting more hours.4. Balanced NutritionIf you're dragging, start with food. Stabilizing blood sugar with balanced meals (protein, veggies, high-fiber carbs) can quickly boost energy and fat metabolism.5. Strength TrainingFeeling stiff, achy, or “old”? You likely need more muscle, not less movement. Strong muscles protect joints, reduce fatigue, and carry you through your day. Build strength progressively, and aim to leave workouts feeling better, not more drained.There's no one-size-fits-all exercise plan. What matters is recognizing the season you're in and choosing to work with your body, not against it. Let's redefine what getting older really feels like!You can get FREE access to my 4-week Strength Without Stress program right now! This program will help you reduce the systemic inflammation that's caused by overly intense or lengthy workouts. It'll help you build and maintain valuable lean muscle without the fatigue from other programsTo get free access to Strength Without Stress, post a Review wherever you're listening. Grab a screenshot of your review before you post it and upload at: https://www.hollyperkins.com/reviewThis is a limited-time offer before it sells for $197–grab it while you can for lifetime access.Be sure to Follow and Subscribe so you'll know exactly when new episodes are available on Tuesdays.Topics covered● [01:35] Age is a mindset, not a number● [07:49] Blaming your age for your struggles is disempowering you● [09:25] Fatigue is a reversible symptom related to mitochondrial function● [12:53] Exercise stimulates circulation, which gives you more energy● [16:12] Not all cardio is the same! Walking usually isn't a workout● [19:11] Great quality sleep comes from smart exercise ● [26:43] Changing your nutrition can give you more energy today● [34:15] Strength training is the best way to reduce aches and pains● [39:49] The exact steps for lifting heavier weight loads Resources Mentioned● Research about the effect of chronic exercise on energy and fatigue states● Research about how resistance exercise training alters mitochondrial function● Research about how resistance training improves sleep quality● Research on metabolic dysfunction in ageing and age-related diseases● Research on the mitochondrial basis of aging● Transcripts can be found on the official...

When a narcissist cheats, the affair often has little to do with love or connection. It's about power.   In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Lauren LaRusso, LPC, LMHC, to unpack why narcissists have affairs and how their motivations are different from what most people expect. Why do they always seem to have someone waiting in the wings? Why is there so little remorse when they're caught? And why does the person who's been betrayed so often end up feeling like the one to blame?   Lauren and I talk about how narcissists use affairs to stay in control and protect their image. These betrayals aren't usually about emotional disconnection. They're about manipulation, dominance, and supply. We also get into what it's like for the person on the receiving end: the self-doubt, the confusion, the isolation. And we talk honestly about why leaving is so complicated. Sometimes there are kids involved. Sometimes it's about safety. Sometimes it's about survival.   If you've been through this, or you're still in it, I hope this conversation brings you clarity. You're not imagining it. You're not overreacting. And most importantly, you're not alone.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Narcissists Cheat 03:25 What Counts as an Affair 04:52 Gender Differences in Infidelity 12:06 Can an Affair Stabilize a Marriage? 16:47 Why People Don't Just Leave 23:24 Affairs in Narcissistic Relationships 27:38 The “Perfect” Narcissist and Secret Lives 30:10 Lack of Accountability 33:07 How Narcissistic Abuse Shows Up in Therapy 38:01 The Danger of Blaming the Betrayed Partner 40:07 Affairs as a Survival Strategy 42:03 Healing After Narcissistic Relationships   In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, ALL virtual courses AND apparel on my website are 20% off for the month of MAY with CODE: MHAM20 Explore on-demand courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Shop apparel here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel   Links Connect with Lauren LaRusso, LPC, LMHC: website: www.theaffairconsultant.com Instagram @LaurenLaRusso   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

In this rather different episode, I get real about a sensitive but important topic: the tendency for women to generalize and hate men after divorce — and why that mindset, while understandable, doesn't actually serve your healing, or theirs. I talk about: Why anger and grief after betrayal are valid — but hate is not the path to freedom How generalizing “all men” keeps us stuck in pain, bitterness, and disconnection What it's costing you emotionally, spiritually, and energetically to carry hate A deeper look into the masculine wound and why many men are emotionally unavailable (without excusing the harm they cause) How you can heal with integrity, reclaim your power, and move forward without carrying hate in your heart You'll leave this episode feeling seen, softened, and empowered to choose healing that truly sets you free. And I am excited to hear your thoughts about this episode. You can leave a review, share this episode on socials or send me an email: wecanhelp@theseparationclub.com LINKS MENTIONED AND MORE: The brand new healing app is LIVE - download the Rising Sisterhood app today and take some positive steps for your healing starting now: https://www.theseparationclub.com/risingsisterhoodapp Take a bigger step towards healing and growth and join my 3 night / 4 day Lake House Retreat, June 12-15th. All the details can be found here: https://theseparationclub.com/lake-retreat Kickstart your healing with the brand new JOY JOURNAL: https://www.theseparationclub.com/the-joy-journal I would love to work with you towards your healing, self-discovery and in creating your new life. Working with a coach is a great way to discover your purpose, your path forward while gaining clarity on your beliefs and core values. I have openings in my calendar for some new clients. https://www.theseparationclub.com/coaching You can also set up a discovery call with me. It's free and an opportunity for us to get to know each other. Here is a link to my Calendar so you can book something that is convenient for you: https://calendly.com/elisabethparsons/discovery-call Also make sure to download the Free Separation Checklist: https://theseparationclub.com/separation-checklist FREE MASTERCLASS: Register for our next free Masterclass: https://www.theseparationclub.com/masterclass Join the private and free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theseparationclub/ You can also find me on Instagram @elisabethjoy444 where I share daily inspirations and tips as you navigate your divorce. And the brand new Instagram account for The Joy Journal: @thejoyjournal444

When Atlanta megachurch pastor Phillip Mitchell told his congregation to stop blaming white cops and start teaching “obedience to authority,” backlash erupted—including from his own members. While he apologized on Instagram, many saw it as hollow, especially when he doubled down on the same dangerous rhetoric. The panel breaks down the historical and present-day implications of respectability politics in Black churches, police violence, and what true accountability really looks like.News SourceAtlanta Black Star by Christian Boone, April 21, 2025https://atlantablackstar.com/2025/04/21/atlanta-megachurch-pastor-apologizes-for-telling-black-folks-to-stop-blaming-white-cops-for-the-killing-of-black-kids/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.18.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Stephen Harder and AJ Atlanta Pastor Sparks Outrage Over Police Violence Comments

After Pierre Poilievre's election defeat, the Conservative blame game begins. The PBD Podcast tears into campaign missteps, failed leadership, and why playing defense cost Pierre the win, despite Trudeau stepping down and Carney stepping in.

A fan texts in and asks if college coaches should take any responsibility for the poor attitudes that some players have when the enter the NFL.

Nigel Farage has once again ignited controversy, this time turning his sights on the UK’s House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) sector. Speaking out this week at a Reform press conference in Dover, Farage claimed that HMOs are not only damaging communities but are increasingly being used to house illegal migrants and asylum seekers, often at the taxpayer’s expense. Watch video - https://youtu.be/NKaPZj-APgw Farage, who could become the next UK Prime Minister according to the polls and recent local election results, argued that the rapid growth of HMOs—particularly in urban areas—is "a symptom of a failed immigration and housing policy." He criticised how private landlords and government contracts are turning residential streets into overcrowded multi-let properties, undermining local cohesion and public services. While HMOs can be a profitable property strategy, especially for landlords seeking higher yields, they’ve become controversial. Local residents often complain about noise, rubbish, overcrowding, parking and falling property values. Councils have responded with Article 4 directions and tougher licensing schemes. Is this another nail in the coffin for buy-to-let property investment, and further reasons for landlords to get out of the UK property market? In recent years, landlords have had to contend with: Section 24 landlord tax – watch accountant explain tax and solutions - https://youtu.be/aMuGs_ek17s Increased tax and Increased red tape and regulation. Now, landlords are facing Labour’s Renter’s Rights Bill and the end to Sec 21 ‘no fault evictions’. See full episode - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wx1HXgVW1bM&t=400s The latest episode of the Charles Kelly Money Tips Podcast explores the truth behind these claims, what it means for property investors, and the future of HMO investments in the UK. Please like and subscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@charleskellymoneytipspodca9121 In the next Charles Kelly Money Tips Podcast episode, I will tell you why I’m getting out of buy-to-let property after 30 years! There are many more money making property strategies than buy-to-let. The important thing is to get the right property education from experts who have made millions in UK property. For more information on a free “NO MONEY DOWN PROPERTY” webinar, email charles@charleskelly.net #NigelFarage #HMOScandal #UKHousingCrisis #IllegalImmigrationUK #AsylumSeekersUK #HMOUK #PropertyInvesting #LandlordLife #UKPolitics #MoneyTips This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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Justin and special guest Cory Ruth talk about how the right and left seem to blame everything on each other. They also discuss our inability to laugh at ourselves.   Show Notes: https://www.theamericansaga.com/p/comedy-is-a-great-antidote-to-racism?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=2780093&post_id=162347568&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=false&r=bg0gz&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kim (SO/SP 8w7 863) joins us for an intimate and unguarded exploration of the inner world of Eight — where sovereignty is survival, connection is a gamble, and straight talk is an act of love. From the first moments, Kim's presence is unmistakable: a force of nature, all-in from the outset, inviting others to meet her at full throttle. We explore the emotional paradox at the heart of the Social Eight — the innocent hope that others will meet her with the same raw honesty she offers, the crushing self-blame that follows when that trust proves misplaced, and the instinct to amputate not just relationships but parts of her own soul in self-protection. We delve into the Eight's preemptive numbing, the hardened stance of being the gatekeeper of her world, and the quiet grief of being valued only for what she gives — not for who she is. Kim's story is a vivid portrait of Eight's vulnerability beneath the armor, and of the slow, courageous return to wholeness. LINKS Learn at The Enneagram School https://theenneagramschool.com/ Intro Course https://www.theenneagramschool.com/intro-enneagram-course Get Typed https://www.enneagrammer.com/ Sinsomnia Podcast (Dreams) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sinsomnia/id1684154994 House of Enneagram https://www.youtube.com/@UCPiABQQQE4Ret7cwmy-GmRA TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Intro 2:08 - BOOM; here it is, 8w7 energy 6:41 - “I'm not a law of nature, I'm a force of it" 14:31 - Rejection core; cutting parts off, self-hatred 20:16 - Living as a social hexad type in a world of attachment types 26:41 - 8 and naiveté 34:35 - Social controlling, “I'm the queen of the chess board” 45:40 - Black and white mindset, 8s relationship to anger 54:07 - “You care about what I am, not who I am”, rejection and usefulness 1:02:08 - Anger vs. indifference and their role in care 1:06:52 - Understanding delusional or realistic boundaries 1:13:16 - Apologetic 8, integrity 1:22:00 - Forgiveness and innocence 1:26:11 - Outro CREDITS Interview by Josh Lavine Edited by Kristen Oberly Music by Coma-Media from Pixabay Coma-Media: https://pixabay.com/users/coma-media-24399569/ Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ --- #enneagram #enneagramtypes #enneagram8

Blaming tariffs alone for the 20,000 laid-off UPS workers hides a key factor. The CEO discusses what tariffs are doing to business. The right-wing media machine makes the Trump cabinet meeting adoration necessary.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE

It seems like every game company on the planet is mad about the "Trump tariffs" these days. 8BitDo is halting shipments of controllers, and the tabletop industry is in shambles. And of course, XBox is raising its console prices. Will this be a passing storm, or is it the new normal?

Sean Whelan, Washington Correspondent, discusses the latest from the White House, and the Senate hearing for the new US Ambassador to Ireland, Edward Walsh, and the new job for Mike Waltz.

Trump blames Biden for a weak GDP report as imports surged ahead of the president's tariffs. Then, the failed Senate vote to undo Trump's 'Liberation Day.' And, what the economic deal signed by the U.S. and Ukraine means for the war. Peter Baker, Susan Glasser, Reed Galen, Justin Wolfers, and Vicky Nguyen join The 11th Hour this Wednesday. 

The US economy shrank in the first three months of 2025, but don't worry; President Trump says tariffs will save the day! Pay no mind to the long list of experts who wholeheartedly disagree... well, maybe we should at least hear them out. We speak with several experts to analyze the current challenges and the potential impact, just in case. The L.A. Local is sponsored by the LA Car Guy family of dealerships.

Burnie and Ashley discuss environmental relativity, jet lag, noise cancelling, Mount Fuji rescue, trade deficit records, trade deals for everyone but the US, Brexit lessons, Split Fiction, Sydney Sweeney, Thunderbolts reviews, and the Take It Down Act.

Send us a textWelcome to another savage Daily Drop where Jared sifts through the Pentagon's greatest hits — everything from the Air Force shoving 31 more fighters into Korea, to Space Force getting table scraps for a budget, to the shocking revelation that 66% of the Guard and Reserve are apparently auditioning for "My 600-lb Life: Military Edition."Along the way, we roast the Signal App scandal (spoiler: everyone uses it), laugh at the "makeup room" conspiracy (Hexeth allegedly turned the Pentagon green room into Sephora), and wonder why America still thinks tanks are cooler than satellites. Also: a reality check on why Uber is cheaper than ruining lives with a DUI.Buckle up. This one's loaded with bad decisions, hot takes, and a gentle reminder that if you can't save someone from drowning, maybe, just maybe, you shouldn't be rocking that uniform.

Relationship Reddit Stories, OP's family has had enough of toxic brother-in-law's off hand comments and one family member decides to call him out.0:00 Intro0:19 Story 18:26 Story 1 Comments / OP's Replies12:58 Story 1 Update 120:00 Story 1 Comments / OP's Reply20:49 Story 1 Update 223:42 Story 1 Comment / OP's Reply#redditupdate #redditrelationship #redditstoriesreddit Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/mark-narrations-the-wafflecast-reddit-stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#LONDONCALLING:BLAMING JAPAN, GERMANY AND CHINA. @JOSEPHSTERNBERG @WSJOPINION 1945 BERLIN

The International Monetary Fund warns global economic growth is projected to slow due to uncertainty over Trump's trade war. The news comes as the Dow heads for its worst April since the Great Depression. Roben Farzad, host of the podcast "Full Disclosure," breaks down what's happening economically. And, Democratic Rep. Robert Garcia details his trip to El Salvador to demand the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was wrongfully deported there in March. Then, Joliet, Illinois, is in a long-standing water crisis. A pipeline from nearby Lake Michigan could solve it, but it also opens up a host of other questions about who can drink water from the Great Lakes. Here & Now's Chris Bentley reports.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Steve Gruber discusses news and headlines 

Welcome back to Tank Talks! In this episode, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo for another high-voltage rundown of the most urgent headlines at the intersection of business, politics, and innovation. As Canada stares down the barrel of a snap federal election and the U.S. economy teeters on a razor's edge, this episode is all about decoding the chaos.* Can Canada avoid a recession as political gridlock looms?* Will U.S. economic volatility derail global investment?* What happens when tech titans like Musk and Dorsey call for the end of intellectual property law?From capital gains clashes and cross-border tax traps to TikTok-fueled counterfeits and China's IP free-for-all, this conversation goes deep into the geopolitical and economic fault lines shaping our future.Election Whiplash: Personality Over Policy (00:01:00)With Canada's snap election just days away, John and Matt unpack the shift from hard policy debate to emotional brand politics. Despite mounting economic concerns like productivity slumps, unaffordable housing, and rising interest rates, voters seem more fixated on the personalities of frontrunners Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre.John's take: We may be headed toward a minority government, but the real issue is voter apathy. If younger voters don't turn up, expect unpredictable outcomes. Meanwhile, the debates are muddying policy distinctions, making this more of a popularity contest than a strategic vote.Tax Turbulence: Capital Gains and Cross-Border Chaos (00:04:00)Capital gains are back in the spotlight on both sides of the border. In Canada, competing parties offer conflicting visions on taxation. But south of the border, new U.S. proposals could triple taxes on Canadian investors holding U.S. assets.John's take: Canada's assumption that U.S. Democrats would win and raise capital gains taxes might backfire. If Republicans take over and slash taxes instead, Canada's competitiveness could tank. The stakes? Talent flight, diminished foreign investment, and a harsh wake-up call for young Canadians evaluating life abroad.Trump, Tariffs, and the Trade War Ripple Effect (00:07:31)Trump's tariff spree continues to rattle markets. Mixed signals and shifting policies have left Canada and much of the world scrambling for economic footing.John's take: Canada has been over-indexing on Trump rather than addressing its domestic weaknesses. Blaming external forces won't fix structural problems like low productivity and weak innovation infrastructure.Recession Realities: Brace for Impact (00:11:50)With interest rates climbing and the bond market flashing red, John paints a sobering picture: a Canadian recession is not just likely, it's imminent. But not all is doom and gloom.John's take: Recessions are where great companies are made. The key is balance sheet strength and a strategy to gain market share, even at the cost of short-term profits. It's survival of the most prepared.Fear vs. Opportunity: Investing Amid Uncertainty (00:13:00)Despite market jitters, John's firm is busier than ever. He sees opportunity in volatility, just not for the faint of heart.John's take: Most people freeze in a downturn. That's a mistake. Investors and founders need to think like race car drivers, slow down strategically, but stay ready to accelerate when the track clears.The IP Debate Goes Nuclear: Musk & Dorsey Speak Out (00:17:00)In a viral exchange, Jack Dorsey and Elon Musk call for the abolishing of intellectual property laws. They argue IP stifles creativity and prioritizes lawsuits over innovation.John's take: While the system needs reform, scrapping IP entirely is extreme. Protection encourages R&D, especially for startups. The real threat? Patent trolls and uneven enforcement that favors deep-pocketed players.The Counterfeit Tsunami and China's Rule-of-Law Rebellion (00:20:50)From luxury bags to Tesla knockoffs, China's casual relationship with IP law is costing Western economies over $600 billion annually. And the stakes are rising.John's take: The U.S. once stood as a beacon for rule-based trade. Now, it's playing the same unpredictable game as China. Without global cooperation, the IP battlefield could become a free-for-all, and that's dangerous for everyone, especially startups.As elections, tariffs, and tech wars reshape the global economy, this episode is your essential guide to what's coming and how to prepare. Whether you're a founder, policymaker, or investor trying to read the tea leaves, John and Matt deliver the no-nonsense insight you won't find anywhere else.Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffoloConnect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Today on What's Right:• Tax Day• Boxing in China• Ending classified information leaks• Democrats fighting for deported gang bangers• The Left foments assassination culture• Blaming violence on Conservatives is pure projection• Can citizens be deported?Thanks for tuning into today's episode of What's Right! If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and make sure you leave us a 5-star review.Have personal injury questions? Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sam & Ash Injury Law⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get free answers 24/7.Connect with us on our socials:TWITTERSam ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@WhatsRightSam⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠What's Right Show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@WhatsRightShow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FACEBOOKWhat's Right Show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WhatsRightShow/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠INSTAGRAMWhat's Right Show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@WhatsRightShow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EMAILSam sam@whatsrightshow.comProducer Robbie robbie@whatsrightshow.comTo request a transcript of this episode, email ⁠⁠marketing@samandashlaw.com

Tim, Phil, & Ian are joined by Danny Polishchuk to discuss a tourist helicopter crashing in NYC, the corporate press lying about the SAVE Act, SCOTUS ruling that the Trump administration must return a man that was deported to El Salvador, and reports claiming iPhones could triple in price due to Trump's tariffs. Hosts: Tim @Timcast (everywhere) Phil @PhilThatRemains (X) Ian @IanCrossland (everywhere) Serge @SergeDotCom (everywhere) Guest: Danny Polishchuk @DannyJokes (X) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's get into it podcast! We talk #russellbrand #cassie #diddy #disney #rachelzegler #kissoflife #wendywilliams and MANY more! Please support the Let's Get Into It Podcast: http://bit.ly/LetsGetIntoIt 

Responsibility. This choice contains a commitment to stop complaining, blaming and excusing. It means you step up into the fullness of your adulthood and release any elements of victimhood from the way you create, produce and live. Being responsible is about being honorable. And truly powerful.My latest book “The Wealth Money Can't Buy” is full of fresh ideas and original tools that I'm absolutely certain will cause quantum leaps in your positivity, productivity, wellness, and happiness. You can order it now by clicking here.FOLLOW ROBIN SHARMA:InstagramFacebookTwitterYouTube

No great hero waits for someone else to save them. They take ownership of their actions, their mindset, and their results. This week, we'll plant our hero flag and learn how to ditch the victim mindset for good. Blaming others gives away your power—owning your choices gives you the ability to change everything.--Loved this audio? You should see the video version! Check it out on my YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@sidekicktohero Or watch it in the Sidekick to Hero app for tweens and teens! It's a gamified confidence & productivity platform that helps young teens develop the habits of heroes and high-achievers. Start for free at www.sidekicktohero.com

Justin and Kylie respond to a heartfelt question from a mum who’s at her wit’s end with her highly creative—but very destructive—three-year-old. From nail polish on couches to crayon art on every surface, they explore what’s developmentally normal, why punishment may backfire, and how parents can redirect energy with connection, supervision, and playful problem-solving. KEY POINTS: Destructive behaviour in young children is often a sign of creativity and a desire to explore. Supervision and engagement are key to reducing mischief. Each child is different; parenting approaches should adapt to each child’s needs and the family’s season of life. Redirection and empathy are more effective than blame and punishment. Quality time and creating opportunities for appropriate creative expression can help children feel seen and understood. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:“Kids don’t lie the way adults do—they tell us what they wish the truth was.” KEY INSIGHTS FOR PARENTS: Your child is not bad. They’re curious, creative, and still learning. Meet big messes with calm, not shame. Use redirection to teach without damaging trust. Invite cooperation by focusing on problem-solving together rather than punishment. Blaming doesn’t teach responsibility—connection does. RESOURCES MENTIONED: I’ll Do Better Tomorrow, I Promise by Maurine Reynolds Adamek “Lessons Learned” Substack by Beck Delahoy—Blame and Shame Doesn’t Solve Anything ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Create safe, designated spaces for creative play—paper, washable markers, etc. Increase supervision during high-risk moments (e.g., when things go quiet!). Spend intentional quality time daily, even in short bursts. Use imaginative redirection—like the “wicked mouse” approach—to encourage responsibility without shame. Clean up with your child, not as punishment, but as a shared problem-solving opportunity. Reflect on whether expectations are realistic for your child’s developmental stage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are many things that can impact your ability to become pregnant. In today's episode, I'm reviewing the top 10 things to consider if you are TTC.    1. Environmental Toxins. Avoid microwaving food and plastic containers or bottles. Always store food and glass or stainless steel containers. Million Marker offers a test to find out if you have in-body toxicity. 2. Chemicals in food and everyday products. Verify that the products you are using are chemical free. You can do that on https://www.ewg.org/ 3. Being sedentary. The CDC and American College of OBGYN, both recommend exercise in amounts of 150 minutes per week. Avoid over exercising, as low BMI can also cause fertility issues. 4. Food allergies or intolerances. Work with a nutritionist to find out if you have a food allergy or other food intolerance. You may also want to consider working with a specialist if you have PCOS or using Pollie.co to help you manage PCOS if you have it. 5. Blocked Fallopian Tubes. Check with your doctor to find out if this is what may be causing you to have a hard time TTC. 6. THC and Cannabinoids can affect the motility of the fallopian tube and the receptors in the lining of the uterus. This makes embryo implantation harder and it might not happen as quickly as you would want. 7. Nicotine. Nicotine can affect the DNA and the egg in the sperm cells, and it can also affect a woman's fertility such that she could go potentially into menopause earlier. 8. Blaming birth control pills. Many people think that birth control pills "cause" infertility, but the truth is that because they regulate your period they may be masking the indicators of infertility. Make sure you get your hormone levels checked with your doctor every year to confirm your levels.  9. Ignoring biology. Every woman is born with a finite number of eggs, and if you want to wait to have kids until later in life, be sure and freeze your eggs when you are in your 20s.  10. Not getting enough sleep.    Listen on Dr. Aimee's website.   Curious about IVF? Click here to join Dr. Aimee for The IVF Class. The next live class call is on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 4pm PST, where Dr. Aimee will explain IVF and egg freezing and there will be time to ask her your questions live on Zoom.   Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh is one of America's most well known fertility doctors. Her success rate at baby-making is what gives future parents hope when all hope is lost. She pioneered the TUSHY Method and BALLS Method to decrease your time to pregnancy. Learn more about the TUSHY Method and find a wealth of fertility resources at www.draimee.org.

Today's Sports Daily covers more numbers on this weekends games, while I wouldn't blame NIL just yet for the lack of upsets in the tourney, MLB's torpedo bats, the Dodgers are going 162-0, & Rafael Devers' awful start. Music written by Bill Conti & Allee Willis (Casablanca Records/Universal Music Group) Ads:BetOnline - Your #1 Sports Betting Source

President Trump has been threatening to “take back” the Panama Canal since he regained power. In this episode, listen to testimony from officials serving on the Federal Maritime Commission who explain why the Panama Canal has become a focus of the administration and examine whether or not we need to be concerned about an impending war for control of the canal. Please Support Congressional Dish – Quick Links Contribute monthly or a lump sum via Support Congressional Dish via (donations per episode) Send Zelle payments to: Send Venmo payments to: @Jennifer-Briney Send Cash App payments to: $CongressionalDish or Use your bank's online bill pay function to mail contributions to: Please make checks payable to Congressional Dish Thank you for supporting truly independent media! Background Sources Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes Current Events around the Panama Canal March 5, 2025. the Associated Press. Sabrina Valle, Suzanne McGee, and Michael Martina. March 4, 2025. Reuters. Matt Murphy, Jake Horton and Erwan Rivault. February 14, 2025. BBC. May 1, 2024. World Weather Attribution. World Maritime News Staff. March 15, 2019. World Maritime News. July 29, 2018. Reuters. Panama Canal Treaty of 1977 U.S. Department of State. The Chinese “Belt and Road Initiative” Michele Ruta. March 29, 2018. World Bank Group. The Trump-Gaza Video February 26, 2025. Sky News. Laws Audio Sources Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation January 28, 2025 Witnesses: Louis E. Sola, Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Daniel B. Maffei, Commissioner, FMC , Professor, Scalia Law School, George Mason University Joseph Kramek, President & CEO, World Shipping Council Clips 17:30 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Between the American construction of the Panama Canal, the French effort to build an isthmus canal, and America's triumphant completion of that canal, the major infrastructure projects across Panama cost more than 35,000 lives. For the final decade of work on the Panama Canal, the United States spent nearly $400 million, equivalent to more than $15 billion today. The Panama Canal proved a truly invaluable asset, sparing both cargo ships and warships the long journey around South America. When President Carter gave it away to Panama, Americans were puzzled, confused, and many outraged. With the passage of time, many have lost sight of the canal's importance, both to national security and to the US economy. 18:45 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): But the Panama Canal was not just given away. President Carter struck a bargain. He made a treaty. And President Trump is making a serious and substantive argument that that treaty is being violated right now. 19:10 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): President Trump has highlighted two key issues. Number one, the danger of China exploiting or blocking passage through the canal, and number two, the exorbitant costs for transit. 19:20 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Chinese companies are right now building a bridge across the canal at a slow pace, so as to take nearly a decade. And Chinese companies control container points ports at either end. The partially completed bridge gives China the ability to block the canal without warning, and the ports give China ready observation posts to time that action. This situation, I believe, poses acute risks to US national security. 19:50 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Meanwhile, the high fees for canal transit disproportionately affect Americans, because US cargo accounts for nearly three quarters of Canal transits. US Navy vessels pay additional fees that apply only to warships. Canal profits regularly exceed $3 billion. This money comes from both American taxpayers and consumers in the form of higher costs for goods. American tourists aboard cruises, particularly those in the Caribbean Sea, are essentially captive to any fees Panama chooses to levy for canal transits, and they have paid unfair prices for fuel bunkering at terminals in Panama as a result of government granted monopoly. Panama's government relies on these exploitative fees. Nearly 1/10 of its budget is paid for with canal profit. 21:25 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Panama has for years flagged dozens of vessels in the Iranian ghost fleet, which brought Iran tens of billions of dollars in oil profits to fund terror across the world. 21:40 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): And Chinese companies have won contracts, often without fair competition, as the infamous Belt and Road Initiative has come to Panama. China often engages in debt trap diplomacy to enable economic and political coercion. In Panama, it also seems to have exploited simple corruption. 32:40 Louis Sola: The Panama Canal is managed by the Panama Canal Authority, ACP, an independent agency of the Panamanian government. The ACP is a model of public infrastructure management, and its independence has been key to ensure a safe and reliable transit of vessels critical to the US and global commerce. 33:25 Louis Sola: In contrast, the broader maritime sector in Panama, including the nation's ports, water rights, and the world's largest ship registry, falls under the direct purview of the Panamanian government. 33:35 Louis Sola: Unfortunately, this sector has faced persistent challenges, including corruption scandals and foreign influence, particularly from Brazil and China. These issues create friction with the ACP, especially as it works to address long term challenges such as securing adequate water supplies for the canal. 33:55 Louis Sola: Although the ACP operates independently, under US law both the ACP and the government of Panama's maritime sector are considered one in the same. This means that any challenges in Panama's maritime sector, including corruption, lack of transparency, or foreign influence, can have a direct or indirect impact on the operations and long term stability of the canal. This legal perspective highlights the need for diligence in monitoring both the ACP's management and Panama government's policies affecting maritime operations. 34:30 Louis Sola: Since 2015, Chinese companies have increased their presence and influence throughout Panama. Panama became a member of the Belt and Road Initiative and ended its diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Chinese companies have been able to pursue billions of dollars in development contracts in Panama, many of which were projects directly on or adjacent to the Panama Canal. Many were no bid contracts. Labor laws were waived, and the Panamanian people are still waiting to see how they've been benefited. It is all more concerning that many of these companies are state-owned, and in some cases, even designated as linked to the People's Liberation Army. We must address the significant growing presence and influence of China throughout the Americas and in Panama, specifically. 35:20 Louis Sola: American companies should play a leading role in enhancing the canal's infrastructure. By supporting US firms, we reduce reliance on Chinese contractors and promote fair competition. 36:55 Daniel Maffei: Because the canal is essentially a waterway bridge over mountainous terrain above sea level, it does depend on large supplies of fresh water to maintain the full operations. Panama has among the world's largest annual rainfalls. Nonetheless, insufficient fresh water levels have occurred before in the canal's history, such as in the 1930s when the Madden Dam and Lake Alajuela were built to address water shortages. Since that time, the canal has undertaken several projects to accommodate larger, more modern ships. In the last couple of years, a trend of worsening droughts in the region, once again, has forced limits to the operations of the canal. Starting in June of 2023 the Panama Canal Authority employed draft restrictions and reduced the number of ships allowed to transit the canal per day. Now the Panama Canal limitations, in combination with the de facto closure of the Suez Canal to container traffic, has had serious consequences for ocean commerce, increasing rates, fees and transit times. 39:30 Daniel Maffei: Now, fortunately, Panama's 2024 rainy season has, for now, alleviated the most acute water supply issues at the canal, and normal transit volumes have been restored. That said, while the Panamanian government and Canal Authority have, with the advice of the US Army Corps of Engineers, developed credible plans to mitigate future water shortages, they also warned that it is likely that at least one more period of reduced transits will occur before these plans can be fully implemented. 41:55 Eugene Kontorovich: We shall see that under international law, each party to the treaty is entitled to determine for itself whether a violation has occurred. Now, in exchange for the United States ceding control of the canal which it built and maintained, Panama agreed to a special regime of neutrality. The essential features of this regime of neutrality is that the canal must be open to all nations for transit. That's Article Two. Equitable tolls and fees, Article Three. An exclusive Panamanian operation, Article Five. The prohibition of any foreign military presence, Article Five. Article Five provides that only Panama shall operate the canal. Testifying about the meaning of the treaty at the Senate ratification hearings, the Carter administration emphasized that this prohibits foreign operation of the canal, as well as the garrisoning of foreign troops. Now, Article Five appears to be primarily concerned about control by foreign sovereigns. If Panama signed a treaty with the People's Republic of China, whereby the latter would operate the canal on Panama's behalf, this would be a clear violation. But what if Panama contracted for port operations with a Chinese state firm, or even a private firm influenced or controlled in part by the Chinese government? The Suez Canal Company was itself, before being nationalized, a private firm in which the United Kingdom was only a controlling shareholder. Yet this was understood to represent British control over the canal. In other words, a company need not be owned by the government to be in part controlled by the government. So the real question is the degree of de jure or de facto control over a Foreign Sovereign company, and scenarios range from government companies in an authoritarian regime, completely controlled, to purely private firms in our open society like the United States, but there's many possible situations in the middle. The treaty is silent on the question of how much control is too much, and as we'll see, this is one of the many questions committed to the judgment and discretion of each party. Now turning to foreign security forces, the presence of third country troops would manifestly violate Article Five. But this does not mean that anything short of a People's Liberation Army base flying a red flag is permissible. The presence of foreign security forces could violate the regime of neutrality, even if they're not represented in organized and open military formations. Modern warfare has seen belligerent powers seek to evade international legal limitations by disguising their actions in civilian garb, from Russia's notorious little green men to Hamas terrorists hiding in hospitals or disguised as journalists. Bad actors seek to exploit the fact that international treaties focus on sovereign actors. Many of China's man made islands in the South China Sea began as civilian projects before being suddenly militarized. Indeed, this issue was discussed in the Senate ratification hearings over the treaty. Dean Rusk said informal forces would be prohibited under the treaty. Thus the ostensible civilian character of the Chinese presence around the canal does not, in itself, mean that it could not represent a violation of the treaty if, for example, these companies and their employees involved Chinese covert agents or other agents of the Chinese security forces. So this leads us to the final question, Who determines whether neutrality is being threatened or compromised? Unlike many other treaties that provide for third party dispute resolution, the neutrality treaty has no such provision. Instead, the treaty makes clear that each party determines for itself the existence of a violation. Article Four provides that each party is separately authorized to maintain the regime of neutrality, making a separate obligation of each party. The Senate's understanding accompanying to ratification also made clear that Article Five allows each party to take, quote, "unilateral action." Senator Jacob Javits, at the markup hearing, said that while the word unilateral is abrasive, we can quote, "decide that the regime of neutrality is being threatened and then act with whatever means are necessary to keep the canal neutral unilaterally." 46:35 Joseph Kramek: My name is Joe Kramek. I'm President and CEO of the World Shipping Council. The World Shipping Council is the global voice of liner shipping. Our membership consists of 90% of the world's liner shipping tonnage, which are container vessels and vehicle carriers. They operate on fixed schedules to provide our customers with regular service to ship their goods in ports throughout the world. 47:15 Joseph Kramek: As you have heard, using the Panama Canal to transit between the Atlantic and Pacific saves significant time and money. A typical voyage from Asia to the US or East Coast can be made in under 30 days using the canal, while the same journey can take up to 40 days if carriers must take alternate routes. From a commercial trade perspective, the big picture is this. One of the world's busiest trade lanes is the Trans Pacific. The Trans Pacific is cargo coming from and going to Asia via the United States. Focusing in a bit, cargo coming from Asia and bound for US Gulf and East Coast ports always transits the Panama Canal. Similarly, cargo being exported from US and East Coast ports, a large share of which are US Agricultural exports, like soybeans, corn, cotton, livestock and dairy also almost always transits the Panama Canal. The result is that 75% of Canal traffic originates in or is bound for the United States. 48:55 Joseph Kramek: We've talked about the drought in 2023 and the historic low water levels that it caused in Lake Gatún, which feeds the canal locks, a unique system that is a fresh water feed, as contrasted to an ocean to ocean system, which the French tried and failed, but which is actually active in the Suez Canal. These low water levels reduced transits from 36 transits a day to as low as 22 per day. Additionally, the low water levels required a reduction in maximum allowable draft levels, or the depth of the ship below the water line, which for our members reduced the amount of containers they could carry through the canal. This resulted in a 10% reduction in import volumes for US Gulf and East Coast ports, with the Port of Houston experiencing a 26.7% reduction. 51:10 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Are you aware of allegations from some vessel operators of disparate treatment such as sweetheart deals or favorable rebates by Panama for canal transits? Louis Sola: Thank you for the question, Mr. Chairman, we have become aware through some complaints by cruise lines that said that they were not getting a refund of their canal tolls. When we looked into this, we found a Panamanian Executive Order, Decree 73, that specifically says that if a cruise line would stop at a certain port, that they could be refunded 100% of the fees. And as far as I know, that's the only instant where that exists. 53:05 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): So Panama was the very first Latin American country to join China's Belt and Road Initiative, and right now, China is building a fourth bridge across the Panama Canal for car traffic and light rail. Chairman Sola, why should Chinese construction of a bridge near Panama City concern the United States? Louis Sola: Mr. Chairman, we all saw the tragedy that happened here in the Francis Scott Key Bridge incident and the devastation that had happened to Baltimore. We also saw recently what happened in the Suez Canal, where we had a ship get stuck in there. It's not only the construction of the bridge, but it's a removal of a bridge, as I understand it, called the Bridge of the Americas. It was built in 1961 and that would paralyze cargo traffic in and out of the canals. 53:55 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Panama also recently renewed the concessions for two container ports to a Chinese company, Hutchison Ports PPC. Of course, Chinese companies are controlled by the Communist Party. How does China use control of those ports for economic gain? Louis Sola: Mr. Chairman, I am a regulator, a competition regulator. And the Chinese ports that you're referring to, let me put them into scope. The one on the Pacific, the Port of Balboa, is roughly the same size as the Port of Houston. They do about 4 million containers a year. They have about 28 game tree cranes. The one on the Atlantic is the same as my hometown in Miami, they do about 1 million containers. So where Roger Gunther in the Port of Houston generates about $1 billion a year and Heidi Webb in Miami does about $200 million, the Panama ports company paid 0 for 20 years on that concession. So it's really hard to compete against zero. So I think that's our concern, our economic concern, that we would have. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Commissioner Maffei, anything to add on that? Daniel Maffei: Yeah, I do too also think it is important. I would point out that you don't have to stop at either port. It's not like these two ports control the entrance to the canal. That is the Canal Authority that does control that. However, I think it's of concern. I would also point out that the Panamanian government thinks it's of concern too, because they're conducting their own audit of those particular deals, but we remain very interested as well. 56:25 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Would the facts discussed here be considered violations of the neutrality treaty in force right now between the United States and Panama? Eugene Kontorovich: So I think Senator, I think potentially they could, but it's impossible to say definitively without knowing more, in particular, about the degree of Chinese control and involvement in these companies. I think it's important to note that these port operation companies that operate the ports on both sides, when they received their first contract, it was just a few months before Hong Kong was handed over to China. In other words, they received them as British companies, sort of very oddly, just a few months before the handover. Now, of course, since then, Hong Kong has been incorporated into China, has been placed under a special national security regime, and the independence of those companies has been greatly abridged, to say nothing of state owned companies involved elsewhere in in the canal area, which raised significantly greater questions. Additionally, I should point out that the understandings between President Carter and Panamanian leader Herrera, which were attached to the treaty and form part of the treaty, provide that the United States can, quote, "defend the canal against any threat to the regime of neutrality," and I understand that as providing some degree of preemptive authority to intervene. One need not wait until the canal is actually closed by some act of sabotage or aggression, which, as we heard from the testimony, would be devastating to the United States, but there is some incipient ability to address potential violations. 58:10 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): If the United States determines that Panama is in violation of the treaty, what is the range of remedies the United States would have for that treaty violation? Eugene Kontorovich: So I think it may be shocking to people to hear today, but when one goes over the ratification history and the debates and discussions in this body over this treaty, it was clear that the treaty was understood as giving both sides, separately, the right to resort to use armed force to enforce the provisions of the treaty. And it's not so surprising when one understands that the United States made an extraordinary concession to Panama by transferring this canal, which the United States built at great expense and maintained and operated to Panama, gratis. And in exchange, it received a kind of limitation, a permanent limitation on Panamanians sovereignty, that Panama agreed that the United States could enforce this regime of neutrality by force. Now, of course, armed force should never be the first recourse for any kind of international dispute and should not be arrived at sort of rationally or before negotiations and other kinds of good offices are exhausted, but it's quite clear that the treaty contemplates that as a remedy for violations. 1:03:20 Louis Sola: I believe that the security of the canal has always been understood to be provided by the United States. Panama does not have a military, and I always believed that there's been a close relationship with Southern Command that we would provide that. And it would be nice to see if we had a formalization of that in one way or another, because I don't believe that it's in the treaty at all. 1:05:05 Daniel Maffei: While we were down there, both of us heard, I think, several times, that the Panamanians would, the ones we talked to anyway, would welcome US companies coming in and doing a lot of this work. Frankly, their bids are not competitive with the Chinese bids. Frankly, they're not that existent because US companies can make more money doing things other places, but even if they were existent, it is difficult to put competitive bids when the Chinese bids are so heavily subsidized by China. 1:06:10 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): What would China's incentive be to heavily subsidize those bids to undercut American companies and other companies? Daniel Maffei: Yeah, it's not a real short answer, but Senator, China's made no secret of its ambitious policies to gain influence of ports throughout the globe. It's invested in 129 ports in dozens of countries. It runs a majority of 17 ports, that does not include this Hong Kong company, right? So that's just directly Chinese-owned ports. So it has been a part of their Belt and Road strategy, whatever you want to call it, the Maritime Silk Road, for decades. So they believe that this influence, this investment in owning maritime ports is important to their economy. 1:07:05 Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE): In 2021, Hutchison was awarded those two ports, Port Balboa and Port Cristobal, in a no-bid award process. Can you tell me, does the United States have any authority or recourse with the Panama Canal Authority under our current agreement with Panama to rebid those terminal concession contracts. And perhaps Mr. Kantorovich, that's more in your purview? Louis Sola: Senator, both of those ports were redone for 25 years, until 2047, I believe. And they have to pay $7 million is what the ongoing rate is for the Port of Houston- and the Port of Miami-sized concessions. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE): And it can't be rebid until after that date? Louis Sola: Well, I believe that that's what the comptroller's office is auditing both of those ports and that contract. That was done under the previous Panamanian administration. A new administration came in, and they called for an audit of that contract immediately. 1:20:10 Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): Are the companies now controlling both sides of the Panama Canal, the Chinese companies, subject to the PRC national security laws that mandate cooperation with the military, with state intelligence agencies. Does anyone know that? Eugene Kontorovich: They're subject all the time. They're subject to those laws all the time by virtue of being Hong Kong companies. And you know, they face, of course, consequences for not complying with the wishes of the Chinese government. One of the arguments -- Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): Wouldn't that be a violation of the treaty? And isn't that a huge risk to us right now that the Chinese -- Eugene Kontorovich: That is a threat to the neutrality -- Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): If they invaded Taiwan, invaded the Philippines, they could go to these two companies saying, Hey, shut it down, make it hard, sink a ship in the canal. And wouldn't they be obligated to do that under Chinese law if they were ordered to by the PLA or the CCP? Eugene Kontorovich: I don't know if they'd be obligated, but certainly the People's Republic of China would have many tools of leverage and pressure on these companies. That's why the treaty specifically says that we can act not just to end actual obstructions to the canal. We don't have to wait until the canal is closed by hostile military action. Thatwould be a suicide pact, that would be catastrophic for us, but rather that we can respond at the inchoate, incipient level to threats, and then this is up to the president to determine whether this is significantly robust to constitute -- Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): So aren't we kind of walking up to the idea of a suicide pact, because we've got two big Chinese companies on both ends of the Panama Canal, who, if there's a war in INDOPACOM, Taiwan that involves us and China, these companies would be obligated to do the bidding of the Chinese Communist Party and PLA? I mean, are we kind of walking up to a very significant national security threat already? Eugene Kontorovich: Yeah, certainly, there's a threat. And I think what makes the action of the Chinese government so difficult to respond to, but important to respond to, is that they conceal this in sort of levels of gray without direct control. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): Let me ask you on that topic, as my last question, Professor, let's assume that we find out. And again, it wouldn't be surprising. I think you can almost assume it that these two companies have Chinese spies or military officials within the ranks of the employees of the companies. Let's assume we found that out, somehow that becomes public. But I don't think it's a big assumption. It's probably true right now. So you have spies and military personnel within the ranks of these two companies that are controlling both ends of the Panama Canal for you, Professor, and Chairman Sola, wouldn't that be a blatant violation of Article Five of the neutrality treaty, if that were true, which probably is true? Eugene Kontorovich: Yeah, I do think it would be a clear violation. As former Secretary of State, Dean Ross said at the ratification hearings, informal forces can violate Article Five as well as formal forces. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): Is there any evidence of Chinese spies or other nefarious Chinese actors embedded in these companies? Louis Sola: Senator, we have no information of that. That's not under the purview of -- Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK): But you agree that would be a violation of Article Five of the neutrality treaty? Louis Sola: I do. 1:26:25 Daniel Maffei: Senator Sullivan was talking about Hutchison Ports. That's actually the same company that runs terminals on both ends of the canal. I am concerned about that. However, if we want to be concerned about that, all of us should lose a lot more sleep than we're losing because if there are spies there, then there might be spies at other Hutchinson ports, and there are other Hutchinson ports in almost every part of the world. They own the largest container port in the United Kingdom, Felix Dow, which is responsible for nearly half of Britain's container trade. They control major maritime terminals in Argentina, Australia, the Bahamas, Germany, Indonesia, Mexico, Myanmar, the Netherlands, South Korea and Tanzania. If owning and managing adjacent ports means that China somehow has operational control or strategic control over the Panama Canal, they also have it over the Suez, the Singapore Straits, the Mediterranean Sea and the English Channel. 1:35:45 Louis Sola: The fees that I think we are looking at, or have been looked at, the reason that we went there was because of the auctioning of the slots. And so what Panama did is they had a smaller percentage, maybe 20% allocation, and then they moved it up to 30% and 40% because it became a money maker for them. So as they were doing -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN): Okay, let me interject here. The auctioning of the slots gives these the right to skip the queue? Louis Sola: Yes, ma'am. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN): Okay, so just for the record there. Continue. Louis Sola: So the auctioning of the slots. Under maritime law, it's first come first serve, but Panama has always put a certain percentage aside, and they started to put more and more. So we got a lot of complaints. We got a lot of complaints from LNG carriers that paid $4 million to go through, and we got a lot of complaints from agriculture that didn't have the money to pay to go through, because their goods were gonna go down. So if you look at the financial statements -- I'm a nerd, I look at financial statements of everybody -- the canal increased the amount of revenue that they had from about $500 million to $1.8 billion in the last three years just because of those fees. So this is what is very concerning to us. 1:39:20 Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN): Do you know of any instances where the United States has been singled out or treated unfairly under the neutrality treaty in the operation of the canal? Daniel Maffei: I do not. I would add that one of the reasons why saying the US is disproportionately affected by raises in Canal fees and other kinds of fees at the canal is because the United States disproportionately utilizes the canal. 1:44:55 Louis Sola: We have a US port there, SSA, out of Washington State that I actually worked on the development of that many years ago, and helped develop that. That used to be a United States Navy submarine base, and we converted that. As far as the two ports that we have, they're completely different. One is a major infrastructure footprint, and also a container port that's moving 4 million containers a year. That's really phenomenal amount. That's more than Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and you've probably got to get Tampa and a little bit of Jacksonville in there to get that type of volume. And on the other side, we have a very small port, but it's a very strategic port on the Atlantic. So how are the operations done?I don't know how they don't make money. I mean, if you want to come right down to it, if they've been operating the port for 20 years, and they say that they haven't made any money, so they haven't been able to pay the government. That's what concerns me is I don't believe that we're on a level playing field with the American ports. 1:58:50 Eugene Kontorovich: I think the charges and fees are less of an issue because they don't discriminate across countries. We pay more because we use more, but it's not nationally discriminatory. 1:59:00 Eugene Kontorovich: The presence of Chinese companies, especially Chinese state companies, but not limited to them, do raise serious issues and concerns for the neutrality of the treaty. And I should point out, in relation to some of the earlier questioning, the canal, for purposes of the neutrality treaty, is not limited just to the actual locks of the canal and the transit of ships through the canal. According to Annex One, paragraph one of the treaty, it includes also the entrances of the canal and the territorial sea of Panama adjacent to it. So all of the activities we're talking about are within the neutrality regime, the geographic scope of the neutrality regime in the treaty. 2:00:30 Daniel Maffei: I actually have to admit, I'm a little confused as to why some of the senators asking these questions, Senator Blackburn, aren't more concerned about the biggest port in the United Kingdom being run by the Chinese. Petraeus in the port nearest Athens, one of the biggest ports in the Mediterranean, is not just run by a Chinese-linked company, it's run directly by a Chinese-owned company, and I was there. So you're on to something, but if you're just focusing on Panama, that's only part. 2:01:45 Louis Sola: About a year ago, when we were having this drought issue, there was also a lot of focus on Iran and how they were funding Hamas and the Houthis because they were attacking the Red Sea. What the United States has found is that Iranian vessels are sometimes flagged by Panama in order to avoid sanctions, so that they could sell the fuel that they have, and then they can take that money and then they can use it as they wish. Panama, at the time, had a very complicated process to de-flag the vessels. There was an investigation, there was an appeals process. By the time that OFAC or Treasury would go ahead and identify one of those vessels, by the time that they were doing the appeals and stuff like this, they've already changed flags to somewhere else. So when we went to Panama, we met with the Panamanian president, and I must say that we were very impressed, because he was 30 minutes late, but he was breaking relations with Venezuela at the time because the election was the day before. We explained to him the situation. The very next day, we met with the maritime minister, with US embassy personnel and Panama actually adjusted their appeals process so to make it more expedient, so if the United States or OFAC would come and say that this Iranian vessel is avoiding sanctions, now we have a process in place to go ahead and do that, and 53 vessels were de-flagged because of that. 2:06:05 Sen. John Curtis (R-UT): Is there any reason that China can't watch or do whatever they want from this bridge to get the intel from these containers? And does that concern anybody? Louis Sola: Well, it definitely concerns Southern Command, because they've brought it up on numerous occasions that there could be some sort of surveillance or something like that on the bridges. 2:20:30 Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT): We segregate ourselves artificially in a way that they do not. We segregate ourselves. Let's talk about military. Let's talk about intelligence. Let's talk about economics. They don't. China doesn't work that way. It's a whole of government approach. They don't draw a delineation between an economics discussion and a military one. And their attack may not look like Pearl Harbor. It may look like an everyday ship that decides, you know, it pulls into the locks and blows itself up. And now the locks are non-functional for our usage, and we can't support an inter ocean fleet transfer, and our ability to defend it, as you referred to Chairman, is now inhibited by the fact that we no longer have the military infrastructure around the canal that we did just as recently as 1999. 2:21:10 Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT): So from a commercial perspective, do the shipping companies have concerns over the security of the narrow waterways? We've the Strait to Malacca, we've got the Suez Canal, we've got Gibraltar, we've got Panama. Is that a concern that's thrown around in the boardrooms of the largest shipping corporations in the world? Joseph Kramek: Senator, I think it's something they think about every day. I mean, really, it's drawn into sharp relief with the Red Sea. It was what I call a pink flamingo. There's black swans that just come up and there's pink flamingos that you can see, but you don't act. But no one really thought a whole lot that one of the most important waterways in the world could be denied, and moreover, that it could be denied for such a sustained period. The good news is that -- Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT): And denied, I might add, by a disaffected non-state actor of Bedouins running around with rocket launchers, who also managed to beat us in a 20 year war in Afghanistan. My point to saying all this is we're just debating operational control of the canal, yet it seems very clear to all of us that a very simple act can debilitate the canal and eliminate our ability to use it in a matter of minutes with no warning, and we have no ability to intervene or stop that. To me, that means we do not have operational control of the canal. 2:30:40 Daniel Maffei: I will say that certainly we need to look at other kinds of ways to get US companies in positions where they can truly compete with the Chinese on some of these things. Blaming it all on Panama really misses the point. I've seen the same thing in Greece, where Greece didn't want to give the concession of its largest port to a Chinese company, but because of its financial difficulties, it was getting pressure from international organizations such the IMF, Europe and even maybe some of the United States to do so. So I just ask you to look at that. 2:31:20 Daniel Maffei: Panamanians are making far more on their canal than they ever have before. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as long as it's going to the right place. But where they're really making the money is on these auctions, and that is why it remains a concern of mine and I'm sure the chairman's. That is where we are looking at, potentially, using our authority under Section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act where we could, if we can show that it is a problem with the foreign trade of the US, it's interfering with foreign trade of the US, there are certain things that we can do. Senate Foreign Relations Committee January 15, 2024 Clips 4:01:40 Marco Rubio: The thing with Panama on the canal is not new. I visited there. It was 2016. I think I've consistently seen people express concern about it, and it's encapsulized here in quote after quote. Let me tell you the former US ambassador who served under President Obama said: "the Chinese see in Panama what we saw in Panama throughout the 20th century, a maritime and aviation logistics hub." The immediate past head of Southern Command, General Laura Richardson, said, "I was just in Panama about a month ago and flying along the Panama Canal and looking at the state owned enterprises from the People's Republic of China on each side of the Panama Canal. They look like civilian companies or state owned enterprises that could be used for dual use and could be quickly changed over to a military capability." We see questions that were asked by the ranking member in the house China Select Committee, where he asked a witness and they agreed that in a time of conflict, China could use its presence on both ends of the canal as a choke point against the United States in a conflict situation. So the concerns about Panama have been expressed by people on both sides of the aisle for at least the entire time that I've been in the United States Senate, and they've only accelerated further. And this is a very legitimate issue that we face there. I'm not prepared to answer this question because I haven't looked at the legal research behind it yet, but I'm compelled to suspect that an argument could be made that the terms under which that canal were turned over have been violated. Because while technically, sovereignty over the canal has not been turned over to a foreign power, in reality, a foreign power today possesses, through their companies, which we know are not independent, the ability to turn the canal into a choke point in a moment of conflict. And that is a direct threat to the national interest and security the United States, and is particularly galling given the fact that we paid for it and that 5,000 Americans died making it. That said, Panama is a great partner on a lot of other issues, and I hope we can resolve this issue of the canal and of its security, and also continue to work with them cooperatively on a host of issues we share in common, including what to do with migration. 4:38:35 Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT): Now, President Trump has recently talked a little bit about the fact that there are some questions arising about the status of the Panama Canal. When we look to the treaty at issue, the treaty concerning the permanent neutrality and operation of the Panama Canal, we're reminded that some things maybe aren't quite as they should be there right now. Given that the Chinese now control major ports at the entry and the exit to the canal, it seems appropriate to say that there's at least an open question. There's some doubt as to whether the canal remains neutral. Would you agree with that assessment? Marco Rubio: Yes. Here's the challenge. Number one, I want to be clear about something. The Panamanian government, particularly its current office holders, are very friendly to the United States and very cooperative, and we want that to continue, and I want to bifurcate that from the broader issue of the canal. Now I am not, President Trump is not inventing this. This is something that's existed now for at least a decade. In my service here, I took a trip to Panama in 2017. When on that trip to Panama in 2017 it was the central issue we discussed about the canal, and that is that Chinese companies control port facilities at both ends of the canal, the east and the west, and the concerns among military officials and security officials, including in Panama, at that point, that that could one day be used as a choke point to impede commerce in a moment of conflict. Going back to that I -- earlier before you got here, and I don't want to have to dig through this folder to find it again, but -- basically cited how the immediate past head of Southern Command, just retired general Richardson, said she flew over the canal, looked down and saw those Chinese port facilities, and said Those look like dual use facilities that in a moment of conflict, could be weaponized against us. The bipartisan China commission over in the House last year, had testimony and hearings on this issue, and members of both parties expressed concern. The former ambassador to Panama under President Obama has expressed those concerns. This is a legitimate issue that needs to be confronted. The second point is the one you touched upon, and that is, look, could an argument be made, and I'm not prepared to answer it yet, because it's something we're going to have to study very carefully. But I think I have an inkling of I know where this is going to head. Can an argument be made that the Chinese basically have effective control of the canal anytime they want? Because if they order a Chinese company that controls the ports to shut it down or impede our transit, they will have to do so. There are no independent Chinese companies. They all exist because they've been identified as national champions. They're supported by the Chinese government. And if you don't do what they want, they find a new CEO, and you end up being replaced and removed. So they're under the complete control of their government. This is a legitimate question, and one that Senators Risch had some insight as well. He mentioned that in passing that needs to be looked at. This is not a joke. The Panama Canal issue is a very serious one. 4:44:30 Marco Rubio: In 2016 and 2017 that was well understood that part of the investments they made in Panama were conditioned upon Panama's ability to convince the Dominican Republic and other countries to flip their recognition away from Taiwan. That happened. Jen Briney's Recent Guest Appearances Travis Makes Money: Give and Take: Music by Editing Production Assistance

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Deqa Dhalac a Somali member of the Maine Legislature makes no bones about it, she wants to use her position to fight for the country of Somalia. MN DFL'ers are blaming their out of control spending and the anticipated deficit on Trump. Johnny Heidt guitar news and Reusse with his weekly sports report. Heard On The Show: ‘Security threat' on diverted Sun Country flight from MSP to El Paso deemed a hoax Mike Lindell Hit With $9 Million Debt Bill Stock market today: Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq rise after jobs report, Powell speech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices