Summary of "ActBlue Caught Red-Handed: How Deep Does This Government Fraud Rabbit Hole Go?"
Podcast: Louder with Crowder
Host: Steven Crowder
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 284 of Louder with Crowder, titled "ActBlue Caught Red-Handed: How Deep Does This Government Fraud Rabbit Hole Go?", Steven Crowder delves into a comprehensive critique of government corruption, focusing particularly on ActBlue, a prominent Democratic fundraising platform. The episode intertwines discussions on government fraud, the manipulation of food prices, immigration policies, and the influence of powerful political action committees (PACs).
Government Fraud and ActBlue Investigations
Key Discussion:
Crowder asserts that government fraud is rampant, estimating that between $230 to $520 billion is lost annually due to fraudulent activities within federal institutions. He emphasizes that ActBlue, a major Democratic fundraising platform, is under intense scrutiny for its alleged involvement in facilitating corruption and influencing political outcomes.
Notable Quotes:
-
"There is an underground network that allows billions to be funneled into government institutions, creating an ecosystem of corruption."
[03:14] Steven Crowder -
"ActBlue was a scam the whole time. So much green you could die."
[59:25] Steven Crowder
Investigations and Resignations:
Crowder highlights recent investigations initiated by various states, including Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, Florida, and Missouri, into ActBlue's financial activities. These probes have led to high-profile resignations within the organization, suggesting internal turmoil and potential wrongdoing.
Notable Quotes:
- "In the last week, a bunch of top officials and employees have resigned, including board members, senior lawyers, high-level software engineers. This is one of those moments where it's clear something isn't right."
[52:14] Steven Crowder
The Egg Price Crisis
Key Discussion:
Shifting focus, Crowder addresses the contentious issue of rising egg prices, debunking claims that former President Donald Trump is solely responsible. He attributes the price hikes to a combination of factors, including bird flu outbreaks and market manipulation facilitated by large egg producers like Cal-Maine Foods.
Notable Quotes:
- "Is it Donald Trump's fault? No. Is it all the bird flu? It's partially. But corporate greed and government subsidies are major contributors."
[09:04] Steven Crowder
Market Manipulation and Government Subsidies:
Crowder explains that large corporations receive significant government subsidies and bailouts, enabling them to manipulate egg prices unfairly. He argues that these practices stifle competition, allowing big players to dominate the market and inflate prices beyond necessities.
Notable Quotes:
- "They receive millions in subsidies, which prop up their businesses and allow them to charge exorbitant prices, squeezing out smaller farms."
[37:19] Steven Crowder
DOJ Investigation:
Highlighting proactive measures, Crowder mentions that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched an antitrust investigation into egg producers to examine potential collusion and price-fixing activities.
Notable Quotes:
- "President Trump is the only one who said, let's look into whether this is criminal behavior. Does that sound like someone who's a crony capitalist looking out for billionaire buddies? Not quite."
[37:20] Steven Crowder
Immigration and Deportation Issues
Key Discussion:
Crowder discusses recent immigration cases, specifically focusing on the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and Hamas supporter. He criticizes the portrayal of such actions by the left as tyranny, arguing that removing non-citizens who support terrorism is a rightful exercise of government authority.
Notable Quotes:
- "A green card is a privilege, not a right. It can be taken away if you violate the law or support terrorist activities."
[27:14] Steven Crowder
Legal Framework:
He references USC Section 1182, which states that aliens endorsing or supporting terrorist activities are inadmissible, justifying the deportation of individuals like Khalil.
Notable Quotes:
- "The law is clear: any alien who endorses or espouses terrorist activity is inadmissible."
[27:14] Steven Crowder
Influence of PACs and Political Funding
Key Discussion:
Crowder criticizes the immense influence of PACs like ActBlue in shaping political landscapes. He argues that such organizations funnel vast amounts of money into politics, leading to undue influence over elected officials and perpetuating corruption.
Notable Quotes:
- "ActBlue funders include Soros, Reid Hoffman, Herbert Sandler, Patricia Bauman, and Leah Hunt Hendricks. These are heavyweight names with significant political clout."
[51:10] Steven Crowder
Investigative Journalism:
Crowder underscores the role of investigative journalism, mentioning contributions from figures like James O'Keefe, in exposing the dubious activities of organizations like ActBlue.
Notable Quotes:
- "Our undercover unit on Stuff like this and tips from listeners helped expose the corruption within ActBlue. If you have any tips, reach out to us."
[60:19] Steven Crowder
Government Spending and Subsidies
Key Discussion:
The episode also touches on broader government spending issues, including subsidies to various industries such as agriculture, banking, and healthcare. Crowder argues that these financial supports are mismanaged, favoring large corporations over small businesses and leading to inflated prices for consumers.
Notable Quotes:
- "The government is subsidizing everything from banks to airlines, and it's the American worker who bears the brunt of these misallocations."
[54:17] Steven Crowder
Impact on Consumers:
He points out that when large farms and corporations receive bailouts, it often results in price fixing and reduced competition, ultimately harming consumers through higher prices and limited choices.
Notable Quotes:
- "When you have giant bailouts, the market manipulation that ensues is detrimental to the average consumer. It's a system rigged in favor of the powerful few."
[43:48] Steven Crowder
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, Steven Crowder presents a vehement critique of government corruption, the influence of PACs like ActBlue, and the manipulation of markets to the detriment of ordinary Americans. By intertwining discussions on fraud, political influence, and economic policies, Crowder urges listeners to remain vigilant and informed about the pervasive corruption within government institutions and affiliated organizations.
Final Notable Quote:
- "Fraud is everywhere. It's time for ActBlue to figuratively die and for the government to clean up its act."
[59:25] Steven Crowder
Additional Resources
For more in-depth information and to support the show, visit Louder with Crowder's Mug Club.
