Podcast appearances and mentions of Cliff May

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: Investigative journalist Annie Jacobsen joins Mike to discuss her new book, Biological War: A Scenario, and the terrifying possibility that the next weapon of mass destruction could be a deadly engineered pathogen. Cliff May, founder and president of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, examines the latest developments in the war between the United States and Iran—and where the conflict may be headed next. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Pendulum: Ditch the afternoon crashes and naturally curb your cravings with 20% off the doctor-recommended Pendulum Metabolic Daily at https://pendulumlife.com Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/PDB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

C Constable reports from France on the high heat and smoke impact near Bordeaux. The discussion shifts to surging energy prices, with Brent crude rising 26% and European gas up 36%. Despite high energy costs, rising copper prices suggest potential industrial growth. (1)Simon Constable and Jim McTague continue with a quiz highlighting that typical data centers use 300,000 gallons of water daily, while larger ones can reach 5 million gallons. Currently, most centers are urban, but 67% of planned facilities are rural. In Lancaster County, a "tale of two data centers" emerges as one town embraces the revenue stream while another resists it due to misinformation and fear. (2)Cliff May argues for maximum pressure and coercive diplomacy to prevent the Islamic Republic of Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He advocates for a naval blockade, specifically targeting oil exports from Kharg Island to strangle the regime's revenue. May emphasizes that the Iranian leadership's ideology makes them likely to use nuclear weapons, necessitating a strategy to cripple the regime's power. (3)John Hardie and Bill Roggio cover the significant leadership change in Ukraine as General Drapatyi replaces General Syrskyi as commander-in-chief. Drapatyi is seen as a representative of a new, western-style generation of officers who embrace technological innovation and listen to subordinates. The transition aims to "desovietize" the military and maintain the momentum of successful drone offensives against Russian infrastructure. (4)Anatol Lieven examines how the Ukraine and Iran conflicts are merging into one global struggle following a Ukrainiandrone strike on an Iranian vessel. This escalation threatens global energy supplies of refined oil products, as Russianrefineries struggle with capacity. While Ukraine targets the Russian middle class to undermine support for the war, Lieven warns of a widening proxy war involving China, North Korea, and Iran. (5)Anatol Lieven turns to Britain's new political era under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who is described as the Labour Party's "last chance" to address a discredited government. Burnham faces immense financial pressure, particularly regarding the costs of healthcare for the elderly and dementia. To succeed, he may need to pivot from "Net Zero" policies to prioritize energy needs and seek a new mandate through an election. (6)Salvatore Vitale and Kalin Plunkett of MIT explain hierarchical merging, a process where black holes merge repeatedly to create larger "monsters." By analyzing gravitational waves from 155 binary pairs, they discovered that 14% are second-generation black holes, born from previous mergers rather than stellar collapse. These second-generation black holes are characterized by rapid spin and mass asymmetry, providing clues to how supermassive black holes form in galaxies. (7)Salvatore Vitale and Kalin Plunkett continue: to uncover the origins of the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, scientists propose building larger gravitational wave detectors scaled up by a factor of ten. These advanced observatories would allow researchers to peer further back into cosmic history, potentially detecting black holes from the very early universe. Expanding the global network to four or five detectors would help pinpoint host galaxies and detect the formation of heavy elements. (8)Arthur Herman recounts the historic 1896 meeting where Henry Ford pitched his internal combustion engine to a skeptical Thomas Edison. Edison's encouragement served as the catalyst for Ford's revolution in American transportation. This industrial transformation was further enabled by John D. Rockefeller, whose ability to lower oil prices made gasoline an economically feasible fuel for mass production. The segment also highlights George Washington's vision for a professional Continental Army. (9)Arthur Herman explains the American founders were heavily influenced by the Scottish Enlightenment, particularly the ideas of David Hume and Adam Smith regarding the pursuit of happiness. This subjective right was prioritized over property to potentially allow for the future abolition of slavery. The founding spirit extended to the Northwest Ordinance, creating communities like Marietta, Ohio, that were dedicated to education, religion, and freedom. (10)Arthur Herman characterizes Abraham Lincoln as a founder for his vision of an America without slavery and his willingness to risk the Union to fulfill the Declaration of Independence. His administration's legacy includes the Homestead Act and the Transcontinental Railroad, which expanded the "empire of liberty." Additionally, the Civil War era facilitated the rise of Andrew Carnegie, who later revolutionized the global steel industry using the Bessemerprocess. (11)Arthur Herman reframes the Gilded Age not as an era of greed, but as a period of unprecedented opportunity and connectivity driven by the railroad. James J. Hill's Great Northern Railway fostered regional prosperity and negotiated fairly with Native American tribes. Meanwhile, Thomas Edison's relentless competitiveness and "restless mind" led to the electrification of the nation and the invention of the phonograph, inspiring future generations of founders like Elon Musk. (12)Arthur Herman contrasts Woodrow Wilson's attempt to centrally manage industry during World War I, which resulted in logistical chaos and failure, with FDR's embrace of the private sector for World War II, appointing GM's Bill Knudsento lead mobilization. By relying on the incentives of the marketplace, Knudsen successfully converted American manufacturing into a massive war machine, producing more war material than the world imagined in just 18 months. (13)Arthur Herman presents Martin Luther King Jr. as a founder who refounded the American experiment by taking risks to fulfill the promise of equality. The segment explores the eternal conflict between the bold "founder mindset" and the cautious "manager instinct" that emerged in the 1950s. While managers seek stability and predictability, founders drive innovation and national greatness, preventing the American dream from becoming stagnant and stale. (14)Arthur Herman credits Vannevar Bush's "The Endless Frontier" manifesto with persuading FDR to fund basic scientific research through universities, laying the groundwork for Silicon Valley. This federal support enabled discoveries in information theory and microchip development, transforming the American economy. The evolution from massive mainframes like the IBM 360 to modern microchips illustrates the imaginative leap of founders who see opportunities where others see only current technology. (15)Arthur Herman concludes that today's founders, including Elon Musk and Donald Trump, continue the tradition of taking massive risks to fulfill bold visions. Musk's goals for SpaceX and Mars are described as a step-by-step process of industrial manufacturing and innovation. Central to this enduring success is the Patent Act of 1790, a unique constitutional protection that ensures individuals own the products of their minds, fueling 250 years of American discovery. (16)Corrections applied per the log: John Hardie (transcribed as "Hardy," segment 4) and Labour Party (UK spelling, segment 6). I also dropped the phonetic "(Chopati)" after General Drapatyi in segment 4 — that's Mykhailo Drapatyi, so the first spelling stands. One to confirm for the log: Kalin Plunkett (segments 7–8) — I couldn't verify this MIT researcher's spelling; if it's from audio, it may need checking against the MIT LIGO group roster.

The United States faces the most complex geostrategic threat since 1945: an Axis of Aggressors — China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea — increasingly aligned across economic, cyber, technology, and military domains to diminish American power. Their most alarming tactic may be to trigger simultaneous major wars to stretch U.S. resources past the breaking point.Bradley Bowman, Elaine Dezenski, and RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery — senior leaders at FDD's Centers on AmericanPower — join Cliff May on Foreign Podicy to discuss their new book: "Axis of Aggressors: Countering the Cooperation of China, Russia, Iran & North Korea" — the result of two years of research, examining the threat and laying out a grand strategy to strengthen America, bolster its allies, and weaken this emerging axis.Learn more about Axis of Aggressors: https://www.fdd.org/analysis/axis-of-aggressors/Order the book: https://www.amazon.com/Axis-Aggressors-Countering-Cooperation-Russia/dp/1968919554/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0

The United States faces the most complex geostrategic threat since 1945: an Axis of Aggressors — China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea — increasingly aligned across economic, cyber, technology, and military domains to diminish American power. Their most alarming tactic may be to trigger simultaneous major wars to stretch U.S. resources past the breaking point.Bradley Bowman, Elaine Dezenski, and RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery — senior leaders at FDD's Centers on AmericanPower — join Cliff May on Foreign Podicy to discuss their new book: "Axis of Aggressors: Countering the Cooperation of China, Russia, Iran & North Korea" — the result of two years of research, examining the threat and laying out a grand strategy to strengthen America, bolster its allies, and weaken this emerging axis.Learn more about Axis of Aggressors: https://www.fdd.org/analysis/axis-of-aggressors/Order the book: https://www.amazon.com/Axis-Aggressors-Countering-Cooperation-Russia/dp/1968919554/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0

Two places we need to watch carefully right now: the United Kingdom, which has just installed its seventh prime minister in a decade, and Yemen, where the Houthi rebels have declared anaval blockade of Saudi Arabia and resumed strikes on tankers transiting the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.  Edmund Fitton-Brown, FDD senior fellow and former British ambassador to Yemen, joins Cliff May on FDD's Foreign Podicy to discuss the new government in Blighty and what's driving theHouthis on the Arabian Peninsula.

Two places we need to watch carefully right now: the United Kingdom, which has just installed its seventh prime minister in a decade, and Yemen, where the Houthi rebels have declared anaval blockade of Saudi Arabia and resumed strikes on tankers transiting the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.  Edmund Fitton-Brown, FDD senior fellow and former British ambassador to Yemen, joins Cliff May on FDD's Foreign Podicy to discuss the new government in Blighty and what's driving theHouthis on the Arabian Peninsula.

Cliff May explores the historical link between socialism and Islamism, tracing partnerships from early Bolsheviks to the Iranian Revolution. These alliances often end in violence and purges of leftists, as seen when Ayatollah Khomeiniexecuted communist leaders. He warns that these ideologies generally favor oppressive one-party states. (15)1972 IRAN

SCHEDULE FOR THE JBS, 7-9-2026.1930  BRAZIL ARGENTINA WORLD CUP.Anatol Lieven discusses the impact of the Ukraine war on Russian consumers and potential peace terms. He suggests Russia might settle if it abandons Donbass demands, provided the West bars Ukrainian NATOmembership. Currently, the Russian military is advancing slowly while enduring huge casualties and economic suffering. (1)ZAnatol Lieven explores a potential peace compromise and the risks of escalation. He notes that while Ukraine can make Russia suffer via drone strikes on energy infrastructure, aerial bombardment alone will not force a surrender. A single miscalculation could lead to a direct clash between Russia and NATO. (2) Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports on the earthquake tragedy in Venezuela and the incompetence of the Rodriguezregime. She details how officials like Diosdado Cabello hinder rescue efforts to hide illicit activities. Meanwhile, the opposition leader María Corina Machado is being blocked from returning to the country. (3) Mariam Wahba reports on the brutal persecution of Christians under the Chinese Communist Party's"sinicization" policy. This effort involves rewriting the Bible and mandating state-sanctioned clergy to ensure religion serves the state. Despite this, the underground church continues to grow, posing a challenge to CCPauthority. (4) Josh Dean introduces Kelly Johnson, the brilliant engineer behind the P-38 fighter. Born to hardworking Swedishparents, Johnson overcame poverty to become a legend in aviation. His industrious nature and early mastery of aeronautics led him to Lockheed, where he would transform the industry during WWII. (5) Josh Dean describes the early days of the Lockheed Corporation and the birth of Skunk Works. After saving the company by fixing the Electra, Kelly Johnson promised a jet fighter in just six months. Operating out of a circus tent, his team produced the P-80 in 143 days. (6) Josh Dean explains the Skunk Works method through the development of the F-104 Starfighter. Johnsondemanded total control and minimal oversight from the Air Force, focusing on speed and climb. His test pilots, including Tony LeVier, formed an intimate, trusted team that operated like "cowboys". (7) Josh Dean details the CIA-led U-2 program, designed for high-altitude reconnaissance over the Soviet Union. To achieve 70,000 feet, Johnson created a lightweight glider-like plane. This required the invention of specialized pressure suits for pilots, providing nearly 75% of intelligence gathered during the Cold War. (8) Josh Dean explores the Area 51 mysteries and the Gary Powers incident. Many UFO sightings were actually spy planes like the U-2, tested in secret. Despite the shootdown of Powers in 1960, Johnson had already begun developing the Mach 3.2 Blackbird to maintain an intelligence advantage. (9) Josh Dean recounts Kelly Johnson's creation of the world's first drone for reconnaissance and his failed pitch for an A-12 bomber. He clashed with Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, who ordered the destruction of A-12tools. The segment also highlights Johnson's personal life on his California ranch. (10) Josh Dean highlights Kelly Johnson's struggle with anxiety and health, alongside the emergence of stealth technology. Under his successor Ben Rich, Skunk Works developed the F-117 Nighthawk. Utilizing facets to scatter radar, this "hopeless diamond" proved that an invisible plane was mathematically possible. (11) Josh Dean summarizes Kelly Johnson's 14 rules, emphasizing simplicity and speed. These principles required small teams and minimal paperwork to innovate effectively. Before passing away in 1990, Johnson witnessed a final emotional flyover of his iconic Blackbird, marking the end of a legendary aviation era. (12) Thomas Savage warns that the US national debt is reaching dangerous levels relative to GDP. He explains that rising interest costs are now exceeding national defense spending, which threatens to stifle the productive economy and lead to a decreased standard of living for the average American taxpayer. (13) Thomas Savage argues for stringent budget reforms and spending cuts to address the fiscal crisis. He notes that while many elected officials recognize the problem, the priority of political reelection prevents them from making unpopular decisions, leaving the country in a cycle of unsustainable federal spending. (14) Cliff May explores the historical link between socialism and Islamism, tracing partnerships from early Bolsheviksto the Iranian Revolution. These alliances often end in violence and purges of leftists, as seen when Ayatollah Khomeini executed communist leaders. He warns that these ideologies generally favor oppressive one-party states. (15) Veronique de Rugy uses a 700-year-old Siena fresco to discuss the virtues of good governance. The artwork illustrates that a flourishing society requires the rule of law and justice. She cautions that modern industrial policies and government cronyism represent the same arbitrary governance the fresco warns against. (16) Note: the source had mid-sentence phrases bolded; I've stripped those and kept bolding to proper nouns per house style. Also corrected Tony LeVier (capital V).

This week, Iran's rulers fired on commercial vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz -- an egregious violation of the Memorandum of Understanding which now appears to be a dead MOU. That doesn't surprise Zineb Riboua who has always been skeptical of attempts to forge "peace deals" with the Islamist revolutionaries in Tehran. Ms. Riboua, research fellow at the Hudson Institute's Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East and founder of the China in MENA Project, sitsdown with host Cliff May to discuss Iran, Morocco (where she was born), France (where she was went to school), Russia, China, Latin America and the rising ideology -- including in the U.S. -- of Third Worldism.

This week, Iran's rulers fired on commercial vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz -- an egregious violation of the Memorandum of Understanding which now appears to be a dead MOU. That doesn't surprise Zineb Riboua who has always been skeptical of attempts to forge "peace deals" with the Islamist revolutionaries in Tehran. Ms. Riboua, research fellow at the Hudson Institute's Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East and founder of the China in MENA Project, sitsdown with host Cliff May to discuss Iran, Morocco (where she was born), France (where she was went to school), Russia, China, Latin America and the rising ideology -- including in the U.S. -- of Third Worldism.

Preview for Later Today: Cliff May discusses the uncomfortable historical alliance between socialism and Islamism. He argues that modern supporters often rely on simple "oppressed versus oppressor" narratives rather than deep ideological understanding of these complex political roots. (4)1909 CAIRO

A century of failed diplomacy, hostage crises, secret arms deals, war and even murder. Dr. Tevi Troy, an American presidential historian and senior fellow at the Ronald Reagan Institute, joins host Cliff May to unpack his WashingtonExaminer article, "The Presidents and Iran: A History." From the Persian shahs to the Islamic Republic, Troy and May trace 100 years of U.S.-Iran conflict and ask the uncomfortable question: why does each new commander in chief refuse to learn from his predecessor's mistakes?

A century of failed diplomacy, hostage crises, secret arms deals, war and even murder. Dr. Tevi Troy, an American presidential historian and senior fellow at the Ronald Reagan Institute, joins host Cliff May to unpack his WashingtonExaminer article, "The Presidents and Iran: A History." From the Persian shahs to the Islamic Republic, Troy and May trace 100 years of U.S.-Iran conflict and ask the uncomfortable question: why does each new commander in chief refuse to learn from his predecessor's mistakes?

Guests Include: Attorney Mike Pugliese, Consumers' Research's Will Hild, WILL's Dan Lennington,Concerned Women for America's Melissa Henson,The Federalist's Matt Kittle, Foundation for Defense of Democracies' Cliff May

A memorandum of understanding with Iran isn't peace – it's a fragile ceasefire with a regime whose ideology traces back to 1,400 years of jihad. While Tehran projects strength and defiance, U.S. negotiators face an impossible choice: lock in a deal that leaves the most dangerous issues unresolved or hold the line and risk escalation.On this episode of Foreign Podicy, FDD military experts RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery and Bradley Bowman join host Cliff May to break down why the 60-day negotiation window with Iran isn't just a diplomatic deadline; it's a crux in the global conflict between free nations and their sworn enemies.

AN MOU IS NOT A PEACE DEAL And my friend Cliff May from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies joins us at 1:30 to talk about how Iran negotiates and how Trump fell for it. Read his latest on this deal here, but he says there may be “some developments” before our interview so stay tuned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready for a lively discussion on everything from food to politics on this episode of The Mandy Connell Show. Mandy Connell is joined by her guest, Dave Chung, a local food enthusiast who shares his passion for exploring the hidden gems of Denver's culinary scene. From hand-pulled noodles to dumplings, Dave takes listeners on a tour of the city's best-kept secrets. In this episode, Mandy and Dave dive into the world of food, discussing the evolution of Denver's restaurant scene and the importance of supporting local businesses. They also talk about the challenges faced by small business owners, including rising costs and the impact of the minimum wage increase. Mandy shares her own experiences as a YouTube creator, highlighting the importance of authenticity and transparency in her content. But it's not all about food - Mandy also tackles some serious topics, including the Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the US. Cliff May, a expert on the subject, joins the conversation to share his insights on the negotiations and the Iranian regime's tactics. Mandy and Cliff discuss the complexities of the situation and the potential consequences of the MoU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A memorandum of understanding with Iran isn't peace – it's a fragile ceasefire with a regime whose ideology traces back to 1,400 years of jihad. While Tehran projects strength and defiance, U.S. negotiators face an impossible choice: lock in a deal that leaves the most dangerous issues unresolved or hold the line and risk escalation.On this episode of Foreign Podicy, FDD military experts RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery and Bradley Bowman join host Cliff May to break down why the 60-day negotiation window with Iran isn't just a diplomatic deadline; it's a crux in the global conflict between free nations and their sworn enemies.

Tony starts the final hour of the show joined with Cliff May of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to talk about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the memorandum of understanding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 Segment 1 Tony starts the first hour of the show playing President Donald Trump’s press conference from the G7 in France about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Hour 1 Segment 2 Tony continues to play President Trump’s press conference from the G7 in France about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Hour 1 Segment 3 Tony continues to play President Trump’s press conference from the G7 in France about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Hour 1 Segment 4 Tony wraps up the first hour of the show continuing to play President Trump’s press conference from the G7 as he answers questions about the peace deal between U.S. and Iran. Hour 2 Segment 1 Tony starts the second hour of the show continuing to play President Donald Trump’s press conference from the G7 as he answers questions about the peace deal between U.S. and Iran. Tony later talks about the rape gang inquiry report out of the U.K. Hour 2 Segment 2 Tony continues to play President Trump’s press conference from the G7 as he answers questions about the peace deal between U.S. and Iran. Hour 2 Segment 3 Tony gets into three more things: midterm polling, 23 arrested in plot to attack the UFC White House event, 15 arrested in an alleged Antifa plot to block ICE agents, and President Trump speaking on Graham Platner and answering questions on the memorandum of understanding, Hour 2 Segment 4 Tony wraps up the second hour of the show talking about Daveigh Chase of The Ring, Lilo & Stitch, and Donnie Darko passing away at age 35. Tony also talks about Tom Dreesen passing away at the age of 86. Hour 3 Segment 1 Tony starts the final hour of the show joined with Cliff May of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to talk about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the memorandum of understanding. Hour 3 Segment 2 Tony talks about GLP-1 drugs reducing the risks of cancer and a 5-second pinky exercise to reduce dementia is going viral. Hour 3 Segment 3 Tony talks about massive storms hitting the Midwest. Tony also talks about Hollywood’s job market collapsing. Hour 3 Segment 4 Tony wraps up another edition of the show talking more about President Donald Trump at the G7 in France speaking on the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the memorandum of understanding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 Segment 1 Tony starts the final hour of the show joined with Cliff May of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to talk about the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the memorandum of understanding. Hour 3 Segment 2 Tony talks about GLP-1 drugs reducing the risks of cancer and a 5-second pinky exercise to reduce dementia is going viral. Hour 3 Segment 3 Tony talks about massive storms hitting the Midwest. Tony also talks about Hollywood’s job market collapsing. Hour 3 Segment 4 Tony wraps up another edition of the show talking more about President Donald Trump at the G7 in France speaking on the peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the memorandum of understanding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-11-26.1900 BRUSSELSAnatol Lieven discusses NATO's top US commander, General Grynkewich, who states Russia is not looking for conflict despite European concerns about US military withdrawals. Lieven agrees, noting that the Russian army is bogged down in Ukraine, making a deliberate attack on NATO members like the Baltics appear militarily absurd. (1)Anatol Lieven examines rising anti-immigrant tensions in the United Kingdom, where violent demonstrations in Belfastand England highlight growing public anger toward sudden demographic changes and crimes allegedly committed by asylum seekers. Lieven suggests these tensions are politically explosive, potentially forcing a leadership change in the Labour Party if right-wing parties continue to gain ground. (2)Leila Philip discusses the ancient Algonquin legend of Great Beaver, an environmental parable about resource hoarding and the creation of the Connecticut River Valley. The story reflects traditional ecological knowledge, emphasizing the beaver's immense power to control the water cycle and shape resilient landscapes. (3)Cliff May argues that Qatar utilizes its vast energy wealth to buy influence through professional sports, media platforms like Al Jazeera, and university campuses. He argues these investments allow the state to manipulate Western academic discourse and hedge political bets while hosting major US military assets. (4)Jack Burnham discusses China and North Korea's strategic alignment, noting that Xi Jinping's festive visit to Pyongyang signals China's willingness to de-emphasize denuclearization in favor of regional stability and strategic balancing against the US. North Korea, now an "arsenal of tyranny," leverages its military experience from the Ukrainian front lines to strengthen its regime. (5)Jack Burnham examines the Pentagon's 1260H list, which identifies Chinese companies allegedly assisting the PRC's military-industrial base, signaling increased regulatory scrutiny for these entities. Burnham recommends streamlining government lists to prevent companies from exploiting gaps and advises retail investors of the national security risks these firms pose. (6)Andrea Ferrara describes using the James Webb Space Telescope to investigate a mysterious red light source initially thought to be the most distant galaxy. By observing luminosity changes over two years, he determined it is likely a rare pair-instability supernova, resulting from the explosion of a massive primordial star. (7)Andrea Ferrara proposes building a 40-meter telescope on the lunar surface to succeed the James Webb Space Telescope. This moon-based facility would avoid atmospheric interference, allowing scientists to directly detect the universe's first stars and resolve long-standing mysteries regarding the aftermath of the Big Bang. (8)Mickey Trescott explains that autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system attacks its own organs, a condition affecting a high percentage of women. The protocol is a diet and lifestyle experiment designed to help individuals identify personal triggers and manage their chronic health symptoms. (9)Mickey Trescott describes how the core autoimmune protocol involves a strict 30-to-90-day elimination phase removing common triggers like grains, dairy, and nightshades. This "detective work" calms the immune system, allowing patients to systematically reintroduce foods to discover which specific ingredients negatively impact their health. (10)Mickey Trescott introduces a modified autoimmune protocol that includes rice and coffee, making it more accessible and affordable than the core version. A successful transition requires tracking baseline symptoms and preparing the kitchen to handle the nutritional demands of the upcoming elimination and reintroduction phases. (11)Mickey Trescott emphasizes consuming nutrient-dense foods like bone broth and fatty fish to resolve inflammation and support the microbiome. During reintroduction, patients identify specific food "villains" by monitoring symptom flare-ups, ultimately empowering them to choose a diet that maintains their long-term vitality. (12)Evan Ellis discusses Bolivia's severe instability as blockades led by supporters of Evo Morales disrupt the capital's supply of food and oxygen. Morales is described as a dangerous figure using cocaine-related funds to destabilize the democratically elected government, posing a significant risk to regional US allies. (13)Evan Ellis highlights a razor-thin election in Peru between Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sanchez, exposing deep national divisions over corruption and wealth distribution. The outcome is geopolitically significant, as China already maintains a massive foothold in Peru through control of critical infrastructure, including major ports, mines, and electricity. (14)Evan Ellis notes how public frustration with rising crime and President Petro's "total peace" plan has fueled the rise of hardline political candidates in Colombia. As the country grapples with internal conflict, many Colombians seek a "strong hand" to restore security, mirroring historical law-and-order movements seen in neighboring South Americannations. (15)Evan Ellis discusses how a banking scandal involving Flavio Bolsonaro has impacted Brazilian polls, giving Lula da Silva a temporary lead. Meanwhile, El Salvador's President Bukele remains highly popular due to a dramatic security transformation that has revitalized urban life, despite international concerns regarding due process and human rights. (16)Four name/term corrections: (1) Grinkovich → Grynkewich (General Alexus Grynkewich, current SACEUR) (2) Labor Party → Labour Party (UK spelling per house style) (3) Laya Philip → Leila Philip (the actual author of Beaverland) (6) 126H list → 1260H list (Section 1260H of the NDAA — the standard reference)

Cliff May argues that Qatar utilizes its vast energy wealth to buy influence through professional sports, media platforms like Al Jazeera, and university campuses. He argues these investments allow the state to manipulate Western academic discourse and hedge political bets while hosting major US military assets. (4)1919

In this episode of Foreign Podicy, host Cliff May sits down with Congresswoman Elise Stefanik — once the youngest woman ever elected to the House and its highest-ranking female member — to discuss her new book, Poisoned Ivies: The Inside Account of the Academic and Moral Rot at America's Elite Universities. Stefanik gained national attention after her landmark December 2023 congressional hearing, where she pressed the presidents of Harvard, Penn, and MIT on whether calls for the genocide of Jews violated their campus policies —and none would give a clear answer.Joining the conversation is Brandy Shufutinsky, director of FDD's Program on Education and National Security, who brings her expertise in international and multicultural education to examine the deeper implications of ideological bias and double standards at America's most prestigious institutions. Tune in for a frank discussion on antisemitism, academic freedom, and the urgent need to reform elite higher education.

In this episode of Foreign Podicy, host Cliff May sits down with Congresswoman Elise Stefanik — once the youngest woman ever elected to the House and its highest-ranking female member — to discuss her new book, Poisoned Ivies: The Inside Account of the Academic and Moral Rot at America's Elite Universities. Stefanik gained national attention after her landmark December 2023 congressional hearing, where she pressed the presidents of Harvard, Penn, and MIT on whether calls for the genocide of Jews violated their campus policies —and none would give a clear answer.Joining the conversation is Brandy Shufutinsky, director of FDD's Program on Education and National Security, who brings her expertise in international and multicultural education to examine the deeper implications of ideological bias and double standards at America's most prestigious institutions. Tune in for a frank discussion on antisemitism, academic freedom, and the urgent need to reform elite higher education.

Preview for Later Today: Cliff May investigates Qatar's massive influence campaign within American universities and media. He highlights how Al Jazeera bypasses regulations to feed biased information into open-source AI platforms and internet search results.

Cliff May discusses the deepening crisis in Cuba, where extreme food and electricity shortages have led officials to describe it as a failing state. However, the regime has reportedly received hundreds of attack drones from Russia and Iran, posing a new offensive threat to U.S. interests in the Caribbean. (1)1950S

Cliff May examines the empty pageantry of the Trump-Xi summit in Beijing, where the high-profile ceremony produced no major deals regarding trade or artificial intelligence. Xi Jinping made no concessions on human rights issues, such as the persecution of Christians or the Uyghurs. (2)1700

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 5-27-26.APRIL 1900 OTTAWA.Cliff May discusses the deepening crisis in Cuba, where extreme food and electricity shortages have led officials to describe it as a failing state. However, the regime has reportedly received hundreds of attack drones from Russia and Iran, posing a new offensive threat to U.S. interests in the Caribbean. (1)Cliff May examines the empty pageantry of the Trump-Xi summit in Beijing, where the high-profile ceremony produced no major deals regarding trade or artificial intelligence. Xi Jinping made no concessions on human rights issues, such as the persecution of Christians or the Uyghurs. (2)Jon Hartley discusses the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve Chairman, bringing a hawkish reputation focused on reducing the Fed's expanded balance sheet. Warsh advocates for a return to principles linking money growth directly to inflation control. (3)Jon Hartley proposes a new agreement modeled after the 1951 Accord that would separate the missions of the Federal Reserve and the Treasury. Under this plan, the Fed would focus strictly on short-term rates and price stability rather than long-term debt management. (4)Captain James Fanell analyzes the Balikatan military exercise, which featured 17,000 troops and, for the first time, combat forces from Japan participating in counter-invasion training. The drills demonstrated the capacity of allied nations to successfully target and strike enemy vessels at sea. (5)General Blaine Holt discusses Russian hypersonic threats and the shift to asymmetric drone warfare, noting Russia's threats of using weapons of mass destruction against Kyiv to warn European leaders against further intervention. Meanwhile, low-cost drone technology is proving to be an asymmetric force that renders expensive, multi-million dollar military systems obsolete. (6)Charles Burton examines Canada's controversial economic pivot toward China, where Prime Minister Mark Carney is pursuing a strategic partnership that includes non-public security agreements and the reduction of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Critics warn these moves compromise Canadian sovereignty and allow for significant Chineseinfiltration. (7)Charles Burton and Gordon Chang analyze China's strategic gain from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, with Beijing appearing content to allow the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz to drag out as a way to deplete U.S. military resources. This instability supports China's narrative that the United States is a declining power. (8)Michael Bernstam discusses the impact of Ukrainian drone strikes on the Russian oil market, noting that strikes on refineries and ports have forced Russia to export more crude oil at discounted prices instead of high-value refined products. Simultaneously, U.S. oil production has hit record levels, significantly influencing global market prices. (9)Michael Bernstam examines the failure of Russia's Power of Siberia 2 pipeline deal, as Vladimir Putin left Beijingwithout securing the agreement while China shows no immediate need for the gas. Furthermore, China demanded to pay domestic Russian prices, which would yield no profit for Moscow. (10)Bob Zimmerman discusses the success of SpaceX's Starship 12 test, which demonstrated major design improvements, while NASA has effectively ended Boeing's role in manned missions to the ISS. NASA awarded all manned flights through 2030 to SpaceX, leaving Boeing out of the picture. (11)Bob Zimmerman reports that the Webb telescope has detected weather variations, including morning clouds, on a distant exoplanet. Additionally, images from Mars show parallel ridges that suggest a history of climate cycles and the presence of significant near-surface ice. (12)Craig Unger argues that Donald Trump has been a Russian intelligence asset since 1987. He highlights how Trump's first trip to the Soviet Union was followed by advertisements in U.S. newspapers featuring KGB talking points. (13)Craig Unger discusses U.S. unreliability and the future of the NATO alliance, noting that under Trump, the United States is seen as an unreliable partner by allies like Finland, who fear he will not honor Article 5. This lack of reliability forces European nations to consider whether they can emerge as a self-sufficient military power. (14)Judy Dempsey examines how the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran distracts from Russian aggression in Ukraine and causes economic sluggishness in Germany. European allies feel jaundiced by the lack of consultation from the U.S. regarding Middle East diplomacy. (15)Judy Dempsey discusses how the AfD has become Germany's leading political party by capitalizing on public anger over housing shortages and the government's handling of the wars in Iran and Ukraine. The party represents a growing threat to the established political order in Europe. (16)

Preview for Later Today: Cliff May discusses CIA Director John Ratcliffe's mission to Cuba, offering financial relief for their broken economy. The U.S. demands aid bypass the government and requires fundamental human rights reforms before providing any total bailout.1960

America's spy chief visits Havana, the U.S. Justice Department announces the indictment for murder of former Cuban dictator, Raul Castro, Cuba's current rulers are reported to have received more than 300 military attack drones from Moscow and Tehran while ordinary Cubans suffer power outages, medicine shortages, and soaring food prices. Guests Carrie Filipetti of the Vandenberg Coalition and Connor Pfeiffer of FDD Action join host Cliff May to discuss how these developments add up and whether the liberation of the Cuban people from the zombie Castroite regime is finally possible.

America's spy chief visits Havana, the U.S. Justice Department announces the indictment for murder of former Cuban dictator, Raul Castro, Cuba's current rulers are reported to have received more than 300 military attack drones from Moscow and Tehran while ordinary Cubans suffer power outages, medicine shortages, and soaring food prices. Guests Carrie Filipetti of the Vandenberg Coalition and Connor Pfeiffer of FDD Action join host Cliff May to discuss how these developments add up and whether the liberation of the Cuban people from the zombie Castroite regime is finally possible.

New York Times bestselling author Peter Schweizer joins host Cliff May to discuss his new book, "The Invisible Coup: How American Elites and Foreign Powers Use Immigration as a Weapon." The two take a deep dive into the recent U.S.-China summit, comparisons between the Islamic Republic and the former Soviet Union, Russia's war in Ukraine, and Peter's explosive discovery of a "Manchurian Candidate"-style weaponization of the U.S. immigration system.

New York Times bestselling author Peter Schweizer joins host Cliff May to discuss his new book, "The Invisible Coup: How American Elites and Foreign Powers Use Immigration as a Weapon." The two take a deep dive into the recent U.S.-China summit, comparisons between the Islamic Republic and the former Soviet Union, Russia's war in Ukraine, and Peter's explosive discovery of a "Manchurian Candidate"-style weaponization of the U.S. immigration system.

Headlines:Reports broke suggesting that U.S. intelligence indicates Iran would need about nine months to a year to build a nuclear bomb.The United States, in partnership with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar proposed a UN Security Resolution to defend freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.The United Arab Emirates came under attack on Monday and again yesterday. These were the first attacks on the UAE since the ceasefire took hold last month.--FDD Senior Research Analyst Natalie Ecanow fills in for Jonathan Schanzer, providing timely situational updates and analysis ahead of a conversation between guest interviewer Cliff May, FDD Founder and President, and Eugene Kontorovich, Executive Director of George Mason University Scalia Law School's Center for the Middle East and International Law.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

The Strait of Hormuz isn't just about Iran. It's a stress test for American will, allied confidence, and the deterrence architecture holding the Indo-Pacific together.FDD's RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, fresh from a trip to Taiwan, and Craig Singleton, FDD China Program Senior Director, join Cliff May to connect the dots — from the naval blockade's economic pressure to the lessons Beijing and Taipei are both drawing, in real time, from the Iran war.

The Strait of Hormuz isn't just about Iran. It's a stress test for American will, allied confidence, and the deterrence architecture holding the Indo-Pacific together.FDD's RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, fresh from a trip to Taiwan, and Craig Singleton, FDD China Program Senior Director, join Cliff May to connect the dots — from the naval blockade's economic pressure to the lessons Beijing and Taipei are both drawing, in real time, from the Iran war.

Negotiations between President Trump's envoys and those of the Islamic Republic of Iran were postponed. Operation Epic Fury halts in an uneasy ceasefire as Operation Economic Fury begins cutting off Tehran's revenue streams. The Strait of Hormuz is not yet a safe space. FDD Research Fellow Max Meizlish, a former Treasury official, and Adjunct Fellow Joseph Zacks, a former CIA official, join host Cliff May to take stock.

Negotiations between President Trump's envoys and those of the Islamic Republic of Iran were postponed. Operation Epic Fury halts in an uneasy ceasefire as Operation Economic Fury begins cutting off Tehran's revenue streams. The Strait of Hormuz is not yet a safe space. FDD Research Fellow Max Meizlish, a former Treasury official, and Adjunct Fellow Joseph Zacks, a former CIA official, join host Cliff May to take stock.

5. GUEST: Cliff May. Cliff May discusses historic Lebanon-Israel peace talks mediated by the US. He cautions that progress is limited as long as Hezbollah remains an armed Iranian proxy effectively turning Lebanon into an imperial colony. 52016

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 4-22-26.1910 HALLEY'S COMET1. GUEST: Professor Jim Holmes. Professor Jim Holmes discusses the Strait of Hormuz standoff between the US and Iran. He notes the US advantage due to energy independence while highlighting the role of maritime insurers in the conflict. 12. GUEST: Rick Fischer. Rick Fischer warns of China's militarization of the moon, describing how spent propulsion modules could be weaponized to strike US bases. He emphasizes the current lunar race as a high-stakes territorial land grab. 23. GUEST: Alan Tonelson. Alan Tonelson analyzes new Chinese regulations aimed at preventing foreign companies from decoupling. He warns that Beijing may hold foreign executives hostage to protect its manufacturing sector and counter US-led supply chain reshoring. 34. GUEST: Alan Tonelson. Alan Tonelson argues for viewing China as an economic enemy rather than a rival. He advocates for increased tariffs and US government intervention to successfully move critical manufacturing and supply chains out of China. 45. GUEST: Cliff May. Cliff May discusses historic Lebanon-Israel peace talks mediated by the US. He cautions that progress is limited as long as Hezbollah remains an armed Iranian proxy effectively turning Lebanon into an imperial colony. 56. GUEST: Ivana Stradner. Ivana Stradner explains Iran's use of AI-generated Lego videos for information warfare against the US. She encourages the American government to abandon risk aversion and launch its own offensive psychological influence operations. 67. GUEST: Una Schneck and Charlie Detelich. Researchers Una Schneck and Charlie Detelich discuss modeling wind-driven waves on Titan and exoplanets. They explain how factors like low gravity and varying liquid properties create towering, slow-moving waves unlike those on Earth. 78. GUEST: Una Schneck and Charlie Detelich. Una Schneck and Charlie Detelich outline future Titan exploration plans. With an unlimited budget, they would deploy weather stations, buoys, and submarines to study the moon's methane lakes and complex hydrological cycle. 89. GUEST: Michael Bernstam. Michael Bernstam analyzes the decline of Russia's economy, noting that its manufacturing sector is contracting. He details how the Kremlin is exhausting gold and currency reserves to finance its ongoing budget deficit. 910. GUEST: Michael Bernstam. Michael Bernstam explains Russia's suspension of Kazakh oil flows to a Germanrefinery. This political maneuver is designed to punish Berlin for supporting Ukraine and influence upcoming regional elections in former East Germany. 1011. GUEST: Peter Berkowitz. Peter Berkowitz critiques a Harvard Business School case study for presenting anti-Israel bias as established fact. He argues this reflects deep institutional prejudice and a failure to incorporate competing academic or historical viewpoints. 1112. GUEST: Joel Kotkin. Joel Kotkin examines California's gubernatorial race and the state's economic challenges. He highlights how the massive energy requirements of AI data centers clash with the state's restrictive environmental policies and high taxes. 1213. GUEST: Simon Constable. Simon Constable reports on rising commodity prices and the energy impacts of the Hormuz crisis. He also discusses Lord Robertson's warning that Britain must increase defense spending rather than relying on America. 1314. GUEST: Simon Constable. Simon Constable analyzes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's credibility crisis and the Lord Mandelson scandal. He also previews King Charles III's visit to the United States to help repair and maintain critical diplomatic relations. 1415. GUEST: Bob Zimmerman. Bob Zimmerman reports on the failure of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket upper stage. This significant setback delays NASA's Artemis lunar landing timeline, leaving SpaceX as the primary provider for moon missions. 1516. GUEST: Bob Zimmerman. Bob Zimmerman updates on Voyager 1's power-saving measures as it nears fifty years in space. He also discusses a private startup's rescue mission for the Swift telescope and new observations of Martiandust. 16

Preview: Cliff May examines the Lebanon ceasefire, critiquing the lack of reciprocity from Iran's rulers. He notes that Hezbollah remains committed to Israel's destruction despite Israeli military efforts to secure its northern borders.

In the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks against the United States, Turkey offered a sliver of optimism in a region defined by turmoil — a Muslim-majority democracy, a NATO ally, and even a friend of Israel. But after more than two decades under the rule of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, that Turkey is long gone. So, what happened? And what does it mean for America, NATO, Israel — and the future of the Middle East? FDD Turkey experts Sinan Ciddi and Jonathan Schanzer join host Cliff May to assess Turkey's transformation, including the strategic consequences only now coming into focus.

As Washington prepares for a high-stakes Trump–Xi meeting, the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party examines Beijing's anti-American ambitions and strategies. Chairman John Moolenaar joins host Cliff May to discuss what can be done to counter them.

Fresh off the frontlines, FDD's Mark Montgomery recently returned from Ukraine and other hotspots abroad. He joins host Cliff May for an in-studio debrief on what he saw and what comes next. Also joining the conversation: FDD Action's Daniel Vaynshteyn, former Legislative Director in the U.S. House of Representatives and liaison to the U.S. Helsinki Commission.

13. Guest Cliff May defends the war with Iran as a necessary "war of choice" to deter decades of aggression,. He emphasizes preemptive action against gathering threats and discusses Iran's crippled regional proxies,. (13)1934

PREVIEW FOR LATER. Guest: Cliff May. May challenges the definition of "imminent threat" regarding Iran. He argues that waiting for a literal finger on the trigger before responding is a dangerous and unnecessary interpretation of international law. (1)1707

For more than two decades at FDD, Foreign Podicy host Cliff May and Mark Dubowitz have tracked the evolution of America's enemies—from al Qaeda to the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism in Tehran. Long before many grasped the threat, Mark focused on the Islamic Republic's ideological war, its open commitment to jihad against the “Great Satan” and “Little Satan,” and a decades-long campaign too often misunderstood. On the one-year anniversary of Mark's FDD podcast, The Iran Breakdown, Cliff sits down with him to unpack what too many still miss: what the regime believes, how it wages war, and why it matters now more than ever.

12. Guest Cliff May defines Iranianinterference in the Strait of Hormuz as an act of international piracy. He urges U.S. action to guarantee freedom of navigation, comparing the threat to historical North African pirate states.,,, (13)1943 PA SECTION

Cliff May of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes the strategic necessity of securing Greenlandagainst Russian and Chinese threats, advocating for a NATO-led solution and increased defense spending.1890 greenland