Podcasts about Dark money

How Dark Money Captured America — And How Hawaii Just Declared War on It...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Description In this explosive segment, the host tackles the brutal dark money onslaught aimed at taking down the Freedom Caucus in South Carolina! Exposing shadowy groups like the Palmetto Truth Project, the host breaks down how weak campaign finance laws allow blatant lies to flood voter mailboxes. The gloves really come off as the host targets Donald Trump and his deal with the "Lindsey Graham machine." The host argues that Trump's questionable endorsements of liberal-leaning Republicans have inflicted generational damage on the state, tanked vital redistricting, and handed massive wins to the political left. Custom Labels South Carolina politics, Freedom Caucus, Dark money, Donald Trump, Lindsey Graham, Political commentary, Campaign finance, GOP primaries, Media accountability

In this action-packed segment, the host sounds the alarm on a brutal dark money blitz targeting the South Carolina Freedom Caucus. Exposing shady groups like the Palmetto Truth Project, the host breaks down how weak campaign finance laws allow outright lies to flood voter mailboxes—though the conservative block managed to survive the hit! The conversation then tackles a terrifying "Trojan Horse" system: Western nations using online safety laws to sneak in total tracking systems, and how local grassroots pushback is the only line of defense left. Finally, the host delivers an expert breakdown of the historic, record-shattering voter turnout in the primary. With candidates like Ralph Norman and Rom Reddy splitting the conservative base, Pam Evette and Alan Wilson are propelled into a high-stakes gubernatorial runoff! www.whqr.org South Carolina politics, Freedom Caucus, Dark money, Primary runoff, Pam Evette, Alan Wilson, Digital ID tyranny, Voter turnout, Vote splitting, Conservative grassroots

Election Day Showdown: Can Conservatives Break the Machine? South Carolina's Political Machine Under Fire The Establishment vs. The Freedom Caucus Dark Money, Open Primaries, and the Battle for SC Is South Carolina Becoming the Next Florida? The GOP Civil War Nobody Wants to Discuss Democrats, Dark Money, and Election Day Chaos The UK's Warning and South Carolina's Future The Conservative Purge Happening Right Now Freedom Caucus Under Attack HOOK What if the biggest threat to conservatives wasn't Democrats—but Republicans claiming to be conservatives? Today's episode takes listeners from South Carolina's heated primary battles to Britain's growing digital surveillance state, exposing what Tara argues are coordinated efforts to silence opposition, protect political machines, and reshape the future of government power. EPISODE DESCRIPTION Election Day has arrived in South Carolina, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Tara examines what she calls the entrenched political machine dominating South Carolina politics, alleging that establishment Republicans and Democrats have formed a system that protects power, expands government, and blocks true conservative reform. The discussion dives into immigration enforcement, open primaries, dark money organizations, Freedom Caucus battles, and the attorney general race. Tara argues that conservative candidates are being targeted through deceptive mail campaigns, misleading advertisements, and coordinated political spending designed to preserve the status quo. The episode then shifts overseas to the United Kingdom, where concerns over digital identification systems, online speech enforcement, and government surveillance are raising alarms among free speech advocates. Tara warns that policies being implemented abroad could eventually serve as a blueprint for similar efforts in the United States. From Columbia to London, today's conversation centers on one question: who really controls the institutions that govern everyday life? KEY TAKEAWAYS • South Carolina's primary election could reshape the state's political future • Establishment Republicans face growing opposition from grassroots conservatives • Immigration enforcement remains a major dividing line in state politics • Dark money organizations are playing an increasing role in primary races • Freedom Caucus lawmakers continue facing organized opposition • Concerns are growing over government influence and political accountability • Digital identity systems in the UK are becoming a major international debate • Free speech and online censorship remain central political issues • Conservative voters are being urged to scrutinize campaign advertising carefully • Election Day turnout could determine the direction of South Carolina politics for years SOUND BITES "You have a chance to strike back against the machine from the top today." "Look at their fruits. Look at what they do. Don't listen to what they say." "We've got to break the back of that machine." "Florida has become what I call a freedom factory." "You're looking at your future. This is nuts." "Total control grid." "Democrats and the machine are working together." CHAPTERS Segment 1 Election Day and the battle against South Carolina's political establishment Segment 2 Lindsey Graham, Henry McMaster, and the future of Republican leadership Segment 3 Immigration enforcement and comparisons with Florida Segment 4 Dark money organizations and attacks on Freedom Caucus candidates Segment 5 The attorney general race and conservative voter concerns Segment 6 Britain's digital ID debate and online speech enforcement Segment 7 What overseas policies could mean for America Segment 8 Why turnout matters in today's elections FACEBOOK POST

Ralph Norman Surges as Conservatives Fight Back The Political Machine Faces Its Biggest Threat Yet South Carolina's Conservative Revolt Election Day: The Future of the Palmetto State Democrats, Dark Money, and the Governor's Race The Battle to Save South Carolina Why Conservatives Are Turning to Ralph Norman The Red State Civil War The Machine vs. The Voters Can South Carolina Become the Next Florida? HOOK What happens when the people running a red state refuse to govern like conservatives? On Election Day, Tara examines record turnout, the governor's race, South Carolina's political machine, congressional redistricting battles, and why many conservatives believe today could mark the beginning of a political revolution in the Palmetto State. PODCAST DESCRIPTION Election Day has arrived, and South Carolina voters face a choice that could shape the state's future for years to come. Tara breaks down new polling showing strong support for Congressman Ralph Norman among conservative voters, while also examining growing frustration with what many see as an entrenched political establishment that has controlled state government for generations. The episode explores record Democrat turnout in early voting, the battle over congressional redistricting, Freedom Caucus efforts to reshape state politics, and accusations that establishment leaders deliberately blocked opportunities to strengthen Republican representation. The conversation then turns to California, where controversial election procedures, mail-in ballots, voter ID debates, and ballot harvesting concerns continue fueling national discussions about election integrity. Finally, Tara examines polling that suggests many Democrats hold increasingly negative views about America compared to Republicans, raising broader questions about patriotism, national identity, and the country's future. From Columbia to California, today's episode asks whether voters are finally ready to challenge the political systems that have dominated American politics for decades. FEATURED STORY The Rare Chance to Break the Machine According to Tara, South Carolina voters are being presented with a rare opportunity to challenge a political establishment that has controlled state government since Reconstruction. The discussion centers on the contrast between grassroots conservative candidates and political insiders, highlighting battles over taxes, immigration enforcement, congressional redistricting, and government accountability. At the heart of the debate is a simple question: Will South Carolina continue with business as usual—or choose a dramatically different direction? KEY TAKEAWAYS • New polling shows Ralph Norman leading among conservative voters • Freedom Caucus candidates remain major targets of opposition campaigns • Record Democrat early-voting turnout has raised political concerns • Congressional redistricting remains one of the state's biggest controversies • South Carolina continues to have the highest income tax rate among Republican-controlled states • Conservative activists are pushing for Florida-style reforms • California election policies continue generating national debate • Election integrity remains a top issue for many voters • Governor races often have long-term policy consequences • Election Day turnout could determine the future direction of South Carolina SOUND BITES "We could break the back of the machine today." "We can't keep going the way we're going." "We're the highest income-taxed red state in the nation." "We're going to fall behind." "You want truth conservatism, you'll pick me." "We're going to run government like a business." "Things will start to change here." CHAPTERS Segment 1 Election Day arrives in South Carolina Segment 2 Ralph Norman's rise in new polling Segment 3 The Freedom Caucus versus the political establishment Segment 4 Congressional redistricting and political fallout Segment 5 Record Democrat turnout and ...

It's a massive Monday edition of What's On Your Mind as host Scott Hannon counts down to tomorrow's crucial 2026 primary election. Scott fires up the microphone to challenge the traditionally low voter turnout and provides a comprehensive breakdown of the key conservative candidates on the local ballot. State Representative Ben Koppelman drops by to discuss the growing legislative rift with Governor Armstrong over primary endorsements and unpacks a bold new structure to transform future party conventions. Scott also chats with Soybean Council leaders about navigating the trade cold shoulder from China, introduces the District 13 legislative incumbents, and sits down with outspoken Fargo School Board candidate Carissa Jeske. Plus, a deep-dive look into election integrity, a preview of North Dakota's Supreme Court race with Justice Jared Tufti, and a sharp critique of mainstream media "interrogations." Show Notes & Timestamps [00:00] – The 20% Embarrassment & The Governor's Primary Battle Scott kicks off the show with a direct plea to listeners, calling the region's typical 20% primary voter turnout "embarrassing." State Representative Ben Koppelman joins the studio to voice his disappointment with Governor Armstrong's unprecedented involvement in local legislative primaries. The duo debates whether the executive branch is stepping over the line or simply exercising free speech. [04:45] – Overhauling the Party System: Moving Conventions Post-Primary Representative Koppelman introduces a radical legislative idea for the next session: combining the traditional delegate convention system with the primary ballot. Koppelman explains how sealing primary votes and unveiling them at a late-June convention would eliminate party pettiness and incentivize a massive surge in local political engagement. [07:15] – Transparency and Dark Money in Political PACs The conversation turns to campaign finance reform. Koppelman calls out the flaws in current PAC disclosure rules that allow organizations to shield either their donors or their explicit spending trails, demanding total top-to-bottom financial transparency from all active political groups. [11:00] – Soybean Diplomacy: Out-pacing the China Target Market Jim Thompson (North Dakota Soybean Council) and Justin Sherlock (Soybean Growers Association) call in from the fields to deliver a crucial agricultural trade update. With China stalling on Pacific Northwest trade agreements, the leaders detail how they are aggressively opening doors in alternate Southeast Asian markets like Vietnam and Thailand. [14:00] – USMCA Renewal & Local Crushing Plant Victories Justin Sherlock sounds the alarm on potential tariff delays hitting the upcoming USMCA review with Canada and Mexico. On a…

DESCRIPTION Charlie sounds the alarm on what he calls one of the biggest political deception campaigns South Carolina has ever seen. With primary elections approaching, voters are being flooded with slick mailers from groups using conservative-sounding names while attacking some of the state's most conservative lawmakers. Charlie breaks down the role of dark money, the battle over the Freedom Caucus, accusations of Democrats running candidates as Republicans, and why voters should pay close attention to who's funding the messages showing up in their mailbox. PODCAST SUMMARY As South Carolina voters prepare to head to the polls, Charlie warns listeners about a surge of political mailers and advertising campaigns targeting conservative legislators. He argues that organizations with names like the "Palmetto Truth Project" and "Conservative Grassroots Network" are presenting themselves as conservative while allegedly working to defeat members of the Freedom Caucus. The discussion focuses heavily on the influence of dark money in South Carolina politics and the difficulty voters face in determining who is truly behind campaign messaging. Charlie claims many of the attacks against Freedom Caucus members rely on misleading or inaccurate descriptions of legislative voting records, creating confusion among voters who may not closely follow state politics. The episode also explores a broader concern that Democrats and liberal interests are attempting to influence Republican primaries by supporting candidates who present themselves as conservatives. Charlie argues that voters should carefully examine campaign funding sources and political mailers before making decisions at the ballot box. Throughout the conversation, listeners are encouraged to become more informed consumers of political advertising and to look beyond campaign slogans, endorsements, and expensive media buys when evaluating candidates and legislative races. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dark money remains a major issue in South Carolina politics. Political mailers can be misleading and should be carefully scrutinized. Conservative-sounding organizations may not always align with conservative causes. Freedom Caucus members are facing significant opposition in several legislative races. Campaign funding sources often reveal important information about political interests. Voters should research claims made in political advertisements before voting. Republican primaries remain a key battleground for competing political factions. Election season is bringing increased spending and messaging across the state. SOCIAL MEDIA TITLE Who's Really Behind South Carolina's Political Mailers? SOCIAL MEDIA DESCRIPTION The fight for South Carolina's future may not be happening on the debate stage—it's happening in your mailbox. Charlie exposes the dark money groups, political mailers, and hidden agendas influencing primary elections across the state. SOCIAL MEDIA POST

DESCRIPTION South Carolina's primary election enters the final stretch as accusations of dark money, fake conservative groups, and misleading campaign attacks dominate the conversation. Tara Servatius breaks down allegations that establishment forces are targeting Freedom Caucus conservatives through deceptive mailers and text campaigns while interviewing State Representative Josiah Magnuson. The show also examines claims about election integrity, California voting practices, and a gubernatorial race increasingly defined by outsider-versus-insider politics. PODCAST SUMMARY With South Carolina voters heading toward a critical primary election, concerns over dark money and political deception have taken center stage. Tara Servatius discusses allegations that organizations presenting themselves as conservative groups are actually working to undermine Freedom Caucus lawmakers through misleading mailers and text messages. Representative Josiah Magnuson joins the program to respond to attacks on his voting record, arguing that claims about tax increases and legislative pay raises are false and designed to mislead voters. The discussion highlights ongoing battles between establishment Republicans and Freedom Caucus conservatives within the South Carolina legislature. The program then shifts to broader election concerns, examining voting practices in California and allegations regarding ballot harvesting, voter roll maintenance, and election integrity. Tara argues these systems create opportunities for abuse and warns of potential national implications. Later, gubernatorial candidate Rom Reddy joins the show to discuss his outsider campaign, immigration enforcement, government reform, judicial reform efforts, and proposals to eliminate dark money influence in South Carolina politics. Reddy positions himself as a business leader rather than a career politician and outlines his vision for changing how state government operates. KEY TOPICS South Carolina primary election showdown Freedom Caucus under attack Dark money influence in state politics Misleading political mailers and texts Josiah Magnuson interview Legislative pay raise controversy South Carolina tax policy debate California election integrity concerns Ballot harvesting discussion Voter roll maintenance controversies Rom Reddy gubernatorial campaign Immigration enforcement proposals Judicial reform efforts Government transparency initiatives Outsider vs. insider political battle SEO KEYWORDS South Carolina politics, Freedom Caucus, Josiah Magnuson, Rom Reddy, South Carolina governor race, dark money politics, South Carolina primary election, conservative politics, election integrity, California voting laws, ballot harvesting, Tara Servatius, South Carolina legislature, judicial reform, government transparency SOCIAL MEDIA POST

DESCRIPTION Charlie connects two major political stories: ongoing election-integrity concerns in California and a growing battle over South Carolina's future. He breaks down allegations involving ballot harvesting, inactive voter rolls, and mail-in voting procedures, then pivots to South Carolina's governor's race, dark-money mailers, and the fight between establishment Republicans and Freedom Caucus conservatives. Plus, an interview with South Carolina House candidate Rick Shealy on taxes, spending, roads, and redistricting. Based on discussion from the transcript. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) PODCAST SUMMARY The show opens with a discussion of California's election system, where Charlie raises concerns about voter registration practices, ballot harvesting, and the handling of inactive voter rolls. He argues that extended vote-counting periods and widespread mail-in voting continue to fuel public skepticism about election administration and transparency. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) The conversation then shifts to the failed SAVE Act vote in Washington and the role of Republican senators who opposed it. Charlie argues that establishment Republicans and past political endorsements have weakened conservative efforts in Congress and in South Carolina, particularly in the fight over redistricting and congressional control. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) Charlie also warns listeners about political mailers flooding South Carolina ahead of the election. He claims that groups with conservative-sounding names are allegedly targeting Freedom Caucus lawmakers while presenting themselves as grassroots conservative organizations. Voters are encouraged to look closely at who is funding campaign messages before making decisions. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) Later in the program, South Carolina House candidate Rick Shealy joins the show to discuss cutting government spending, reducing taxes, eliminating property taxes, improving roads, and revisiting redistricting. The interview provides a local policy contrast to the broader discussion about political power and accountability. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) The episode concludes with a look at the unsettled South Carolina governor's race, where polling shows a tightly packed field and a large number of undecided voters. Charlie argues that this election could have major implications for the future of South Carolina's political establishment. (Source transcript: turn2file0.) KEY TAKEAWAYS California's election procedures remain a flashpoint in national political debate. Ballot harvesting and voter-roll maintenance continue to generate controversy. The SAVE Act became a major issue in the broader election-security discussion. South Carolina's governor's race remains highly competitive with many undecided voters. Dark-money political mailers are becoming a major factor in legislative races. Freedom Caucus lawmakers continue to face organized opposition in several districts. Rick Shealy says his priorities include spending cuts, tax relief, and local road control. Voters are encouraged to scrutinize campaign messaging and funding sources before voting. SOCIAL MEDIA TITLE Ballot Harvesting, Dark Money & The Battle for South Carolina SOCIAL MEDIA DESCRIPTION From California election controversies to South Carolina's governor's race, Charlie argues that voters should pay close attention to ballot rules, political endorsements, and who's really paying for campaign mailers. SOCIAL MEDIA POST HASHTAGS FOR FIRST COMMENT #SouthCarolinaPolitics #ElectionIntegrity #CampaignFinance #PoliticalMailers #GovernorRace #FreedomCaucus #StatePolitics #ConservativeNews #GovernmentAccountability #AmperWaveRadio CUSTOM LABELS South Carolina, SC Politics, Governor Race, Election Integrity, Ballot Harvesting, SAVE Act, Freedom Caucus, Dark Money, Campaign Finance, Rick Shealy, Redistricting, Tax Relief, Property Taxes, Roads and Infrastructure, Political Advertising, Conser ...

Mehdi Hasan joins Patrick Bet-David for a no-holds-barred debate on Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel, Iran, Gaza and the future of American power. From the Iran war and Gulf strikes to “socialist capitalism” and U.S. empire, this is one of the most explosive political conversations ever recorded in the PBD studio.Mehdi and PBD go deep on whether Trump got played by Netanyahu, if America is acting as Israel's muscle in the Middle East, and how MAGA, Democrats and the media are all reacting to the wars. They clash over Gaza, the Gulf states, “greater Israel,” racism in the UK vs the US, and whether Trump is actually an anti-war president or just another hawk in disguise.------

Jody Hamilton takes the helm while Stephanie is away. Guests include Bob Cesca and Malcolm Nance. They talk about the perplexing updates surrounding the ongoing conflict in Iran. As Trump sends mixed messages about military action and the status of the Strait of Hormuz, the crew breaks down the timeline of events and the absurdity of political rhetoric from figures like Marco Rubio, who claims the war is over amidst ongoing strikes. Next, they discuss the implications of Trump's foreign policy decisions, including his controversial relationship with Netanyahu and the potential fallout for U.S. intelligence under new appointments. And, they also chat about the pathetic disintegration of Trump's Freedom 250 events such as The Great American State Fair and UFC birthday bash.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Maine's flooded with dark money to crush PlatnerTrump rips out ocean climate sensorsA mortgage crusader gets the spy keysTrump wants a loyalty test on your tax dollarsWill Newark shut down their ICE jail?And Ebola races across CongoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Criminal enterprises like Jeffrey Epstein's operate, at their core, on dark money because the entire system depends on hiding the true source, purpose, movement, and beneficiaries of the cash. In a network like Epstein's, money was not just money; it was insulation, leverage, access, silence, transportation, logistics, legal pressure, image management, and institutional camouflage. The public sees the mansions, private jets, shell companies, offshore accounts, charitable donations, consulting arrangements, academic gifts, and elite friendships, but underneath that polished surface is the real machinery: funds moving through entities that make it difficult to determine who paid for what, who benefited, who was being protected, and what services were actually being purchased. Dark money allows an enterprise to blur the line between legitimate wealth and criminal infrastructure, turning payments into “consulting,” favors into “donations,” access into “philanthropy,” and control into “employment.” That is how a predator with powerful connections can build a system where the cash itself becomes a shield, because every transaction is wrapped in enough lawyers, accountants, trusts, companies, and elite respectability to make the truth expensive and exhausting to uncover.In Epstein's case, the dark-money question matters because the alleged trafficking operation was not just about individual criminal acts; it required an ecosystem. There were properties to maintain, flights to arrange, staff to pay, recruiters to compensate, victims to control, lawyers to deploy, reputations to launder, settlements to structure, and powerful relationships to preserve. That kind of enterprise does not survive on impulse; it survives through financial architecture. The money creates distance between the criminal conduct and the people who benefit from it, while also creating dependency among those who are paid, protected, promoted, or compromised by the system. This is why financial records are often more revealing than public statements: bank transfers, offshore structures, charitable routes, real-estate arrangements, tax strategies, private foundations, and corporate entities can show how a criminal network actually breathed. At its core, dark money is not just hidden money; it is operational oxygen. It keeps the machine moving, keeps witnesses vulnerable, keeps insiders loyal, keeps institutions cautious, and keeps the most dangerous questions buried beneath layers of paperwork.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

This isn’t about the candidates themselves—it’s about “dark money” and disclosure rules. The city attorney is pushing a political group to fully report its election spending, so voters can see who is trying to influence local races. A woman was cited for something physically impossible, went viral after sharing the encounter, and the case was ultimately dropped once it drew attention and lacked evidence. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Central California Blood Center is asking for more donors because it faces a seasonal shortage, especially as summer approaches and fewer people donate. Officials say donations drop when schools are out and blood drives slow down, but hospitals still need a steady supply for emergencies, surgeries, and cancer treatment—making donations critical since one donation can help save up to three lives. States are increasingly trying new ways to limit corporate money in elections, despite the long‑standing impact of the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, which allows unlimited independent political spending by corporations and unions. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Note from James:Have you ever read The Da Vinci Code?That book was definitely a page-turner. Before I read it, I had never really heard of Opus Dei. And after today's conversation with Gareth Gore, you might wish you had never heard of Opus Dei either.In The Da Vinci Code, Opus Dei is a mysterious organization tied to the Catholic Church, secret history, and global power. But today's guest, Gareth Gore, started investigating Opus Dei from a completely different angle. He was looking into the 2017 collapse of a major Spanish bank. He found something much bigger: a secretive organization with connections to global finance, politics, elite schools, the FBI, and even the highest levels of power in Washington, D.C.His book is Opus: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking, and Right-Wing Conspiracy inside the Catholic Church. And what he found is disturbing. Officially, Opus Dei promotes holiness in everyday life. And honestly, I like parts of that idea. But Gareth argues that behind the public message is a high-control organization built on secrecy, manipulation, financial opacity, and alleged abuse.We talk about how Opus Dei recruits from both the ultra-wealthy and the desperately poor, the strange ownership structures tied to hundreds of millions of dollars, the Robert Hanssen spy scandal, alleged influence in Washington, and Gareth's recent private meeting with Pope Leo, where he says he gave the Pope a dossier calling for serious action.This is an eye-opening story. Here's Gareth Gore.Episode Description:James talks with investigative journalist Gareth Gore about Opus Dei, the secretive Catholic organization at the center of Gareth's book Opus. What started as Gareth's investigation into the collapse of Banco Popular in Spain led him into a much larger story about money, power, religious authority, alleged exploitation, and the ways an institution can hide behind noble language while pursuing a much harder political and financial agenda.Gareth explains that Opus Dei officially presents itself as a Catholic movement dedicated to helping ordinary people find holiness through daily work. But his argument is that the public message conceals a high-control system built around recruitment, secrecy, spiritual pressure, and influence inside elite institutions. He describes Opus Dei as both an official part of the Catholic Church and, in his view, an abusive cult. Opus Dei strongly disputes Gareth's book, calling it a false picture based on distorted facts and conspiracy theories.The conversation moves from Opus Dei's founding in Spain in 1928 to its special status as a personal prelature, its alleged links to Banco Popular, its recruitment practices, the Robert Hanssen spy scandal, elite schools, Washington power networks, and Gareth's recent meeting with Pope Leo. The episode is useful because it does not treat Opus Dei as just a conspiracy theory symbol from The Da Vinci Code. It asks a more direct question: what happens when a religious organization accumulates money, secrecy, political influence, and moral authority at the same time?What You'll Learn:What Opus Dei officially is, and why its status as a personal prelature matters.How Gareth Gore went from investigating a Spanish bank collapse to writing a book about Opus Dei.Why Gareth argues that Opus Dei's public message differs sharply from its internal practices.How Banco Popular allegedly became a financial engine for Opus Dei-linked projects.Why Gareth compares aspects of Opus Dei to a high-control cult.What Gareth says happened in the Robert Hanssen spy scandal.Why the alleged recruitment of minors and underprivileged girls has become one of the most serious issues around the organization.What Gareth told Pope Leo in their private meeting.Timestamped Chapters:[02:00] Gareth Gore on Opus Dei as an alleged abusive cult[02:41] Opus Dei as a “rising militia”[03:54] A Note from James: from The Da Vinci Code to Gareth's investigation[05:54] Gareth joins the show[06:00] How James first heard of Opus Dei[06:37] Gareth's background as a financial journalist[07:11] What is Opus Dei?[07:45] Opus Dei's status as a personal prelature[08:40] Why that structure gives Opus Dei unusual freedom[09:15] Gareth's argument: official Catholic structure, unofficial high-control group[10:03] The positive public message of “holiness in everyday life”[10:43] Josemaría Escrivá and Opus Dei's founding[12:00] When Gareth thinks the movement turned political[13:30] Spain on the edge of civil war[14:14] Escrivá's followers as a “secret army”[15:19] Why Opus Dei recruits from elites[16:00] Why Opus Dei also recruits from the poor[17:09] Underprivileged girls and alleged domestic servitude[17:37] How recruitment works by invitation[19:15] Lifelong study, confession, and spiritual guidance[19:54] Opus Dei's modern agenda[20:46] Sex, family values, and political identity[22:05] Why Dan Brown chose Opus Dei for The Da Vinci Code[24:01] Banco Popular and the financial trail[25:54] The mysterious shareholder structure[26:34] Shell companies and alleged financial flows[27:15] Why not publicly identify Opus Dei as a major shareholder?[28:27] Arm's-length foundations and deniability[29:52] Are there good people inside Opus Dei?[30:32] The founder's rules and internal control[32:51] What happens when people leave[33:52] Robert Hanssen and Opus Dei[35:00] Hanssen's wife, confession, and the Opus Dei priest[36:24] Gareth's theory of institutional self-protection[40:03] How the bank collapse connects back to Opus Dei[41:00] Why Gareth thinks ownership structure delayed reform[42:43] Gareth's private meeting with Pope Leo[44:26] The dossier Gareth gave the Pope[45:08] Why Gareth says the meeting went better than expected[46:15] Allegations involving minors and grooming[47:00] Opus Dei schools and elite recruitment[48:20] After-school clubs and hidden recruitment claims[49:16] Can the good message be separated from the organization?[50:44] Why Gareth thinks the founder's rules are the central problem[51:51] The problem of Escrivá's sainthood[53:00] Could the canonization process be reopened?[54:00] Opus Dei, Silicon Valley, and cult-like power structures[56:41] Peter Thiel, Stanford, and Opus Dei overlap[57:29] Closing thoughts on OpusAdditional Resources:Opus: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking, and Right-Wing Conspiracy inside the Catholic Church by Gareth Gore. Opus Dei's official website. Opus Dei's explanation of its status as a personal prelature. Opus Dei's official response disputing Gareth Gore's book. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Evil people using their wealth, their power to create the fourth right here in America in the Middle East

A rising Democratic star and possible presidential candidate gets a warm reception in Montana. Republican "dark money" groups take a keen interest in Montana's Democratic Senate primary, and those Senate candidates make their case at a forum in Missoula.

A rising Democratic star and possible presidential candidate gets a warm reception in Montana. Republican "dark money" groups take a keen interest in Montana's Democratic Senate primary, and those Senate candidates make their case at a forum in Missoula.

It's primary season, and powerful political forces within the Democratic Party are stomping into local races, trying to pick winners and losers. Today on Lever Time, we're diving into The Lever's exclusive investigation that exposed billionaires and party operatives pulling strings behind the scenes.  Then, David Sirota sits down with two Democratic candidates, Randy Villegas from California and Matt Dunlap from Maine, who are running in hotly contested races that will likely decide control of Congress — and who are now facing opposition from House Democrats' big-money machine. Click here to read Luke Goldstein and Katya Schwenk's investigation into political action committees like Majority Democrats and The Bench. Get ad-free episodes, bonus content, and extended interviews by becoming a member at levernews.com/join. To leave a tip for The Lever, click here. It helps us do this kind of independent journalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A heated Texas Senate primary unfolds as Ken Paxton challenges longtime Senator John Cornyn, framing the race as a fight over leadership, policy direction, and what he calls decades of political stagnation in Washington. With major endorsements, high-stakes funding battles, and national figures like Obama backing the opposing side, the race is being described as one of the most intense political showdowns in Texas history.

In this engaging episode of John Solomon Reports, we dive deep into the intricate world of dark money and political accountability. John Solomon welcomes House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, who unravels the complexities surrounding the Hunter Biden IRS scandal and the shadowy financial networks that funnel millions into Democratic campaigns. This insightful discussion promises significant revelations about the implications of unaccountable donations on American democracy.Next, former Deputy National Security Adviser Steve Yates joins the conversation to analyze President Trump's recent trip to China. Yates shares his perspective on how the trip has been perceived as a win for Trump, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of international relations and the stakes involved.In the final segment of the show, Chuck Flint, an advocate for free market solutions in healthcare, discusses the potential for reform and accountability in the industry. His insights shed light on how market-driven approaches can address some of the pressing challenges facing American healthcare today.Additionally, John highlights key headlines affecting the nation, including President Trump's reflections on his China trip, the commutation of election clerk Tina Peters' sentence, and the recent gun legislation signed by Virginia's Governor. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Convicted felon Trump went to China and brought his son Eric along on the nepo-baby express. Eric runs the family business. And by "family business," we mean a transnational crime network of bribes operating like a geopolitical yard sale, selling out our country to the highest bidder. While they were there, Dictator Xi Jinping told the U.S. to back off defending Taiwan. And Trump, in defiance of decades of established U.S. foreign policy, is suddenly sounding suspiciously wishy-washy on approving arms deals for Taiwan. Which is just music to Xi's ears. It's the 1930s all over again, complete with secret alliances of transactional autocrats, and the people forced to build their own resistance networks in the storm.  How do we get through this era without having to literally storm the beaches of Normandy again? To help us figure it out, we're bringing you Part II of our discussion with Ciara Torres-Spelliscy. She is a Brennan Center fellow, a law professor at Stetson University, and the author of Corporatocracy: How to Protect Democracy from Dark Money and Corrupt Politicians. (And if you missed Part I, where we discussed how American corporations funded Trump's violent January 6th coup attempt, go back and listen to it right here). It's easy to despair right now, but the resilience of the people, especially powerful community networks, reminds us that the Constitution still matters, and protects everyone on our soil. We are not powerless against a corporatocracy eager to cash in on transactional autocrats. We just need to confront the absolute, unmitigated disaster that was the Reagan Revolution, undo its damage by building localized power through groups like the States Project, and commit to a relentless, stubborn defiance. We can and will do it, together. Because there's no other choice.  To listen to this full episode, subscribe at the Truth-teller tier, which is just $5 a month, or higher on Patreon. We have discounted annual subscriptions, and you can even give the gift of membership to that uncle who still thinks trickle-down economics works. A massive thank you to everyone who subscribes to Gaslit Nation—we literally could not make this show without you. Show Notes: Corporatocracy How to Protect Democracy from Dark Money and Corrupt Politicians https://nyupress.org/9781479828371/corporatocracy/ Corporatocracy - Part I: https://gaslitnation.libsyn.com/corporatocracy 'No idea it was coming': Pentagon officials stunned by Hegseth decision on troops in Poland https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/14/poland-pentagon-hegseth-troop-withdrawl-surprise-00922169 Eric Trump, Who Runs the Family Business, Hops Along on the Plane to China https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/13/us/politics/eric-trump-china.html?unlocked_article_code=1.ilA.uxcA.YKSI7CnAWkZs&smid=url-share Poland railway blast was unprecedented act of sabotage, says Donald Tusk https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/17/poland-railway-blast-was-unprecedented-act-of-sabotage-says-donald-tusk Opening clip: https://bsky.app/profile/atrupar.com/post/3mlvc3nzpjc23

Gaslit Nation unmasks the real villain: the corporations hijacking our democracy, using Trump as a distraction as they loot and destroy our country. Ciara Torres-Spelliscy, a Brennan Center fellow and professor of law at Stetson University College of Law, and author of Corporatocracy: How to Protect Democracy from Dark Money and Corrupt Politicians, explains how corporations funded Trump's violent coup attempt on January 6, 2021.  In Part I of our discussion, Torres-Spelliscy shows us the inner-workings of corporate greed, and why boardrooms are fine with Trump chaos. In Part II of our discussion, out Thursday in our bonus show for Patreon (get access to that for $5/month at the Truth-teller level), we discuss concrete ways to fight back, including as the corporate lobbyists on the Supreme Court kill what's left of the Voting Rights Act, which Americans gave their lives for.  Gaslit Nation is being censored by the corporations that run Big Tech. We see a drop in views after one of our videos, on a topic such as exposing Epstein's transnational crime network, receives a lot of views. We immediately see a drop in viewership of our videos that come after. Your help amplifying Gaslit Nation–sharing our episodes on your social media, joining our Patreon even as a free member to help amplify our voice–makes a big difference in fighting back. America is sinking in a Trumpian swamp of corporate greed and corruption, but the people can and must organize to build a better world–like generations before us who prevailed to give us the rights under attack today.  Thank you for everyone who supports the show. We could not make Gaslit Nation without you.  Join our community of listeners and get bonus shows, ad free listening, group chats with other listeners, ways to shape the show, invites to exclusive events like our Monday political salons at 4pm ET over Zoom, and more! Discounted annual memberships are available. Become a Democracy Defender at Patreon.com/Gaslit EVENTS AT GASLIT NATION: Gaslit Nation Salons take place Mondays 4pm ET over Zoom and are recorded and shared on Patreon.com/Gaslit for our community New! There's now a California Signal Group for Gaslit Nation listeners to find each other and connect in that state. Join here! The Gaslit Nation Outreach Committee discusses how to talk to the MAGA cult, available on Patreon.  Minnesota Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other, available on Patreon.  Vermont Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other, available on Patreon.  Arizona-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to connect, available on Patreon.  Indiana-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to join, available on Patreon.  Florida-based listeners are going strong meeting in person. Be sure to join their Signal group, available on Patreon.  As always, keep it kind in our chat groups, extend grace and assume good faith. A culture of care is how we build a better world. 

Tom Moore, from the Center for American Progress, explains a bill that passed to limit corporate influence in elections; singer-songwriter Jack Johnson teases the debut of his new documentary film.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, May 11, include: Monday is final day for Nebraskans to cast ballots early in person before Tuesday's primary election, "dark money" pours into Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District race, Nebraska's primary election marks first since 2024 law restored immediate voting rights for people with felony convictions after completing their sentences, Lincoln's proposed minimum wage increase faces legal questions after opinion from Nebraska attorney general, University of Nebraska Medical Center will monitor American passengers from cruise ship linked to hantavirus outbreak, Nebraska education officials approved preschool expansion grants in narrow vote, Gov. Jim Pillen is seeking federal assistance for wildfire recovery in four counties, Husker volleyball announced another stop in national showcase schedule, Nebraska softball will host first NCAA Tournament games since 2013.

A congressional candidate reenters the race despite allegations of sexual misconduct. A legislative candidate faces sexual abuse allegations. A GOP "dark money" PAC uses AI to disparage other Republicans. A battle between the A.G. and a county attorney ends up at the state Supreme Court.

A congressional candidate reenters the race despite allegations of sexual misconduct. A legislative candidate faces sexual abuse allegations. A GOP "dark money" PAC uses AI to disparage other Republicans. A battle between the A.G. and a county attorney ends up at the state Supreme Court.

When a White House shooting is met with memes and NBA highlights, it signals a historic collapse of the social contract. As trust in government hits a record low in 2025, we analyze Pew Research data and apply Gottman Institute relationship repair techniques to understand the rise of American apathy.Someone shot at the White House. The public reaction? Jokes. Memes. A quick scroll, then back to the NBA playoffs. Nobody believes anything anymore. We're not shocked. And that might be the most dangerous thing happening in America right now.In this Episode, Dr. Marjorie and Michael (educators, co-parents navigate parenting after divorce) dig into what it means to raise kids in a broken system during a full democracy crisis. From Jane Mayer's Dark Money to what we teach kids about trust when leadership fails, this co-parenting podcast moves from the national to the intimate.If you're tired of politics, overwhelmed by politics, or have simply stopped caring — political burnout is real. But so is the cost of checking out when you're raising kids in uncertain times with co-parenting different values.Can broken trust be repaired? Dr. Marjorie and Michael use their own co-parenting relationship as the template. The answer is more complicated than you think.

Dark Money and County Elections

Dan once again examines the Colorado Governor's race, discussing the latest developments and potential outcomes. He touches on the possibility of the left spending big money to influence the primary, and how this could impact the election. Dan also shares his thoughts on Victor Marx, a candidate who's raised a lot of money and has a strong following, but has been criticized for not being clear on his positions. The conversation also covers the upcoming debates and the importance of voters understanding where the candidates stand on the issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gareth Gore, author of the exposé OPUS: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking, and Right-Wing Conspiracy inside the Catholic Church, had a private audience with Pope Leo XIV last week as the Pontiff weighs the future of the secretive and controversial Catholic sect Opus Dei.Gore reports they spoke at length about the book, which the Pope described as a "rigorous piece of work." Gore urged the Vatican to launch an independent inquiry into alleged financial and sexual abuses by the troubled prelature. The unusual meeting resulted in feature stories from the Associated Press, Reuters and the Catholic news agency EWTN. These stories in turn have been picked up by outlets such as The Washington Post, Newsmax, The London Times, National Catholic Register, WORLD, Crux and many others.In OPUS Gore reveals decades of deception and abuse perpetrated by a group of men sworn to celibacy and self-flagellation. His investigatioed him to records and whistleblower testimony that reveal Opus Dei's masochistic rituals, its institutionalized subjugation of women, its financial malfeasance, and its fervent support of far-right causes and influencers, particularly in the United States.Pope Leo is expected to take action regarding the future of Opus Dei in the near future.In other news, Variety reports that the producers of Narcos just acquired rights to adapt OPUS into a TV series.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.

Join Brian McWilliams, John Odermatt, Lou Perez and Brian Nichols every other week for the newest show on the Lions of Liberty Network, the Politicks Podcast! This week, we look at the bombshell Indictment against the Southern Poverty Law Center, and expand on the interconnected Democrat Dark Money Web. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Brian McWilliams, John Odermatt, Lou Perez and Brian Nichols every other week for the newest show on the Lions of Liberty Network, the Politicks Podcast! This week, we look at the bombshell Indictment against the Southern Poverty Law Center, and expand on the interconnected Democrat Dark Money Web. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For more coverage on the issues that matter to you, download the WMAL app, visit WMAL.com or tune in live on WMAL-FM 105.9 from 9:00am-12:00pm Monday-Friday  To join the conversation, check us out on Twitter @WMAL and @ChrisPlanteShow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Thursday on Wake Up with Me: We've got a packed powerhouse lineup! Join us for back-to-back conversations with U.S. Congressmen Juan Ciscomani and David Schweikert. Plus, the duo behind the Light Beer, Dark Money podcast, Chris Clements and Sean Noble, and Oro Valley Councilwoman Mary Murphy.Catch it all on the Live the Dream Media network!

To accompany our podcast series, Death in Westminster, hosts Kojo Koram and Dalia Gebrial met with investigative journalist Peter Geoghegan and former private wealth lawyer Stephanie Brobbey at EartH in Hackney last month. Digging into the dark money that flows through Westminster, Kojo and Dalia find out what made Stephanie quit her job hiding rich people’s assets, why Peter couldn’t find anyone to publish his story about Labour corruption, and what normal people can do to challenge the global system of wealth extraction. Listen to Death in Westminster, hosted by Dalia and Kojo Koram, in the Novara Media podcast feed. Follow Peter’s work through the Democracy For Sale newsletter.

Hello to you listening in Dublin, New Hampshire! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more) for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga. Imagine this: It's February 1998. You are 89 years old. You have arthritis and emphysema. You live in a small town in New Hampshire. You laid to rest your husband of 65 years after caring for him with Alzheimer's the last 10 years of his life. Your best friend of 50 years has also died. Now what, asks your son? What will you do? I have an idea, you say. Money is the big divider between people and politics. The tycoons with the money are buying the politicians and making all the decisions. Someone has to tell the American people about the need for national campaign finance reform. I can do that. How, your son wants to know. I'll go on a walk. And so she begins getting in shape walking 2 miles a day, 5 miles a day, 10 miles a day, and carrying a backpack. After 7 months she declares herself ready to go on a walk and tells her son she is starting in Los Angeles, California. After collecting petitions on a beach in Los Angeles Doris Haddock, a.k.a. Granny D begins 14-month walk across America through California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Arkansas and on up to Washington, DC. She has no GoFundMe account or any real plan except to get out and talk to as many people as she can about the need for campaign finance reform. My friend Granny D eats with the people she walks with along the way, sleeps in a spare bedroom, on a couch or in a church basement. She gives talks about national campaign finance reform at rodeos, county fairs, schools, and local gatherings. 10 miles a day, every day, walking across America in her 90th year. By the time Granny D arrives in Washington, DC a blizzard has blocked traffic so she cross-country skies to the Capital to meet then Senators McCain & Feingold who sponsored the McCain-Feingold Campaign Finance Reform Act which will become law 2 years later in 2002. The primary purpose of the Act was to eliminate the increased use of so-called soft money to fund advertising by political parties on behalf of their candidates.     Of her walk Granny D always had her doubts; but she persisted. Here we are 25 years later and deeper in soft-money shit than she could have imagined thanks to the bought and paid for SCOTUS decision in Citizens United that equated money with free speech, kicked open the floodgates to a tsunami of dark money, and tilted political influence toward wealthy donors tycoons, and corporations.     I knew Granny D, we wrote letters back and forth. Sometimes I wonder: What was the point? What difference did 14 months of walking and talking do? I'll tell you. It did this: I'm still talking about her and the wild possibility that she actually realized. She was one Ordinary Person who took up a cause she believed in, talked to thousands of people as she walked across America in her 90th year and kept on talking until she died at the age of 100. Like every good story Granny D lives on to inspire, motivate, and remind each of us - young and old - what we are capable of, what we can achieve before and even after our 90th year.   Yes! we are Ordinary Persons standing shoulder to shoulder with other Ordinary Persons drawn together like filings to a magnet building an Army of Ordinary Persons to Free America, unbalance the status quo, and create a Citizen's Future of hope, dignity, and inclusion. We are the stories of light we struggle to write in these dark times and will be proud to share with those we leave behind when we walk on.   Story Prompt: Who are you? What is your declaration of wild possibility? How are you shaping the future for good? Write that story and share it out loud ! You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. AND!  Stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, check out the Communication Services, email me to arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as Quarter Moon Story Arts on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production Team Podcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story Arts Music: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music ALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

UNBIASED University is in session! While Jordan is on maternity leave, she's breaking down the most critical aspects of the United States government — the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the three branches of the federal government, presidential elections, the evolution of political parties, and more. In this episode of UNBIASED University, we pull back the curtain on the hidden power players in Washington and examine how influence actually works behind the scenes. Who are lobbyists, what do they legally do, and how do Political Action Committees, Super PACs, and so-called dark money groups operate within the campaign finance system? We break down the difference between direct lobbying and independent expenditures, how campaign finance laws have evolved over time, and what Supreme Court decisions have shaped the modern political funding landscape. We also explain the rules around disclosure, coordination, and contribution limits so you can better understand what is legal, what is controversial, and why these systems generate so much debate. Whether you view these groups as essential participants in a representative democracy or as outsized influencers in American politics, this episode provides a clear, nonpartisan explanation of how money and advocacy intersect with power in Washington. What to Know About Lobbying (2:58) The World of Campaign Finance (~20:03) PACS, Super PACS, and "Dark Money" Groups (~32:27) Notable Supreme Court Cases That Have Shaped the World of Campaign Finance (~42:41) How to Track the Money (~46:50) SUBSCRIBE TO JORDAN'S ⁠SUBSTACK. ⁠Watch⁠ this episode on YouTube. Follow Jordan on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time for our weekly Roundabout – a chance to step back and make sense of the biggest local headlines shaping Middle Tennessee.This week, we unpack the controversy over an Apache helicopter flyby at Kid Rock's property that drew attention all the way to the White House, the firing of a library director who refused to remove LGBTQ-themed children's books, and the role of dark money in ad campaigns aimed at protecting pharmacy consolidation. As always, our panel brings perspectives from the left, right, and center — and we make space for your voice, too. Guests:Levi Ismail, Emmy-award winning journalist, NewsChannel 5's investigative unitKiran Sreepada, Former Democratic candidate for Congressional District 5 and former Director of Programs for the States ProjectChris Walker, founding partner, The Poplar Group

The Kill Switch: Jim and Them have two big events in April between Hackamania and LVL Up Expo, both here in Las Vegas. The "KILL SWITCH™" will be in play! Meaning that HDM and Corey would be able to rush the stage, hit the KILL SWITCH™ and end the show FOREVER!Hackamania Controversy: Jim and Them are being used as pawns in some of the battles of the Dabbleverse. As we get ready for our upcoming Hackamania appearance, Corey gets told it is "the event of Jim and Them" to call out Anthony Cumia and try to get the venue involved!HDM: New HDM lore just dropped! She is trying to divide and conquer as she claims Mike is the good one! Friendship arc incoming?! Also the battle with robots begins with the delivery robots, specifically MINGOCOREY FELDMAN!, SHOW STOPPER!, LET'S JUST TALK!, DON CHEADLE!, BOOGIE NIGHTS!, JIM AND THEM IS POP CULTURE!, PO BOX!, SHOUT OUTS!, REAL ONES!, HACKAMANIA!, PROMO CODE THEM!, REAL ONES!, ALL DAY GOONS!, LVL UP EXPO!, HE-WOLVES AND SHE-WOLVES!, THOUGHT!, REALITY!, BONJOUR!, FRENCH PROFESSOR!, RABBIT HOLE!, ACADEMIA!, BRACELETS!, MAILMAN!, JIM AND THEM PEANUTS!, KILL SWITCH™!, HACKAMANIA!, PAWNS!, ANTHONY CUMIA!, COREY'S TWITTER!, EVENT OF JIM AND THEM!, THEY KNOW NO BOUNDS!, PATRICK MELTON!, NOBODY LIKES ONIONS!, REDBAR RADIO!, OPIE!, HOWARD STERN!, SHOCK JOCK!, BIG JAY OAKERSON!, LUIS J. GOMEZ!, NEUTRAL!, LITTLE KIDS!, ACCUSATIONS!, PATRICE!, CONSPIRACY!, POOPER!, BAT BY THE BASES!, PAWNS!, CHESS GAME!, NEIGHBORS!, PIZZA!, ADDRESS!, SERVE YOU!, MONICA KEENA!, FREDDY VS JASON!, ACTRESS!, CONVENTIONS!, FILTH PIG!, SHANE CULKIN!, POOR SELF ESTEEM!, AFRAID!, DARK MONEY!, DEVIL!, SATANIC!, CHOOSE SIDES!, DEAR FRIEND!, GOD BLESS!, SUFFERING!, HERO OF THE PEOPLE!, MINGO!, ROBOT!, DELIVERY!, WAR!, AI!, ROBOTS! You can find the videos from this episode at our Discord RIGHT HERE!

Back in 2010, in the campaign finance case, Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, SCOTUS ruled in favor of Citizens United stating that the First Amendment prohibits the government from restricting independent political expenditures by corporations and unions. This then opened the door to unlimited political spending by corporations and outside groups, ultimately reshaping our elections.  Craig welcomes Tom Moore, Senior Fellow for Democracy Policy at the Center for American Progress, to discuss the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission decision. Craig & Tom take a look at the impact of this SCOTUS ruling over 16 years, and in an election year, how a state's authority over corporations can take out dark money in politics.   Mentioned in this Episode: Transparent Election Initiative The Montana Plan

WBUR found a rise of dark money groups trying to sway local elections and influence policy. The nonprofits can raise and spend unlimited money from undisclosed donors. Watchdogs warn about their growing influence on Massachusetts politics.

Dark Money

A ballot initiative aimed at restricting dark money in Montana elections is advancing. Dubbed "The Montana Plan," the proposal would prohibit any entity that does business in Montana from contributing to candidates, political parties or ballot issues.

The Epstein files are a spotlight into the twisted life of the world's most notorious sex trafficker and the billionaires and oligarchs that took advantage of young women and children. Even the redacted trove of more than 3 million documents by the Department of Justice proves that his ring of abuse went much farther than just to satisfy his sadism, but that the things that went on in his island were vitally connected to a pool of a dark money empire that exists in parallel to the ordinary economy. But what happens when we look beyond the official government releases and cross reference information in the Epstein files with another investigative journalism goldmine: a 2017 trove of leaked banking documents called “The Paradise Papers”. Read together, these two archives of material tell an even darker story about the real importance of Jeffrey Epstein. Which is why I've brought Craig Unger onto the show today. He's an investigative journalist, former editor of the Boston Magazine and a multi-new york times best selling author who, like the rest of the independent journalists trying to survive the media apocalypse, now writes on Substack. A few weeks ago he broke the Paradise Papers - Epstein connection in a piece titled “Jeffrey Epstein's Really Big Short.” Craig Unger's Substack: https://craigunger.substack.comEpstein's Really Big Short: https://craigunger.substack.com/p/jeffrey-epsteins-really-big-shortGet Early Access on Substackhttps://sgcarney.substack.com/

Give to help Chris make Truce Dark money is a problem in American politics and religion. What is it? Untraceable money that often comes from big donors, which is channelled through non-profits to hide the identity of the donor. This money is then able to back causes that may or may not be positive. The Council for National Policy is an organization in the pipeline for Christian dark money. It finances groups like the Heritage Foundation, Focus on the Family, pro-life groups, Turning Point USA, and more. They also coordinate language around denial of climate change, COVID, and election results. Their first president was Tim LaHaye, but he is just the tip of the iceberg. Our guide through this story is Anne Nelson, author of Shadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right. It is an excellent resource that is critical for anyone interested in how some evangelicals tied themselves to the Republican Party. Sources: Biographical video from Turning Point USA about Foster Friess Shadow Network by Anne Nelson Christian Reconstruction: RJ Rushdoony and American Religious Conservatism by Michael McVicar 100 Things to See in the Night Sky Expanded Edition. By Dean Regas Christianity and Oil in US History Article on Nelson Bunker Hunt Birchers by Matthew Dallek The Road to Serfdom (comic version) adapted from Hayek Reaganland and Before the Storm by Rick Perlstein "Information Sheet, Council for National Policy," May 1984 Dark Money by Jane Mayer article on Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education Ponzinomics by Robert Fitzpatrick Justice Department article about Blackwater/ Prince Adams, D. C., Robles, F., & Mazzetti, M. (2025). A Desperate Haiti Turns to Erik Prince, Trump Ally, In Fight Against Gangs. New York: New York Times Company. Census data on Wyoming Pat Robertson: A Life and Legacy by David Edwin Harrell Jr. Leadership Institute website (accessed 8/8/25) Email blast from National Religious Broadcasters titled: “NRB President & CEO to Advocate on Capitol Hill for AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” released July 14, 2025 Salem Media website NRB Article about Bott Radio PRwatch.org article and video about CNP Jackson Hole News and Guide article about Donald Trump Jr.'s visit to Jackson in 2016 New York Times article on Foster Friess Tax documents from Turning Point USA, courtesy of Pro Publica 2017 Jane Mayer profile of Turning Point USA ProPublica article on the Kochs Time article on the Koch's and i360 Article on how many people didn't vote in 2024 New York Times article about Trump's call to the Georgia election rep The Guardian article about Kirk's busing of people to the January 6, 2021, riot EPA article about its origins Discussion Questions: What is dark money? Should Christians participate in it? What are the functions of groups like the Council for National Policy? Who was Foster Friess? Why is it important to include a discussion of dark money when talking about things like Turning Point USA? What is the connection between evangelicalism and oil? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Federal immigration crackdowns and fraud investigations in deep blue states like Minnesota and California have sparked protests, some turning violent. The Trump administration claims many demonstrations are not organic but orchestrated and funded by “dark money” groups. In this episode, we examine the funding trail with Seamus Bruner of the Government Accountability Institute. Get the facts first with Morning Wire.- - -Ep. 2644- - -Wake up with new Morning Wire merch: https://bit.ly/4lIubt3- - -Today's Sponsors:Boll & Branch - Get 15% off your first order + free shipping at https://BollAndBranch.com/wire with code wire.Hello Fresh - Go to https://HelloFresh.com/morningwire10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last.- - -Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacymorning wire,morning wire podcast,the morning wire podcast,Georgia Howe,John Bickley,daily wire podcast,podcast,news podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices