Morning Wire: Cartel Attack Prep & Tariff Deal Talks | Afternoon Update | 02.03.25

Released on February 3, 2025

In this episode of Morning Wire, Daily Wire Editor-in-Chief John Bickley and co-host Georgia Howe delve into a spectrum of pressing issues, from escalating threats at the U.S. border to significant shifts in international trade and political maneuvers. The discussion weaves through the imminent dangers posed by Mexican drug cartels, the ongoing tariff negotiations with Mexico and China, the U.S. withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council, Panama’s strategic pivot away from China, media accountability demands by GOP figures, and a surprising cultural moment involving Beyoncé’s Grammy triumph. This comprehensive update ensures listeners are well-informed on the latest developments shaping politics, culture, and international relations.

1. Escalating Threats from Mexican Drug Cartels

Tim Pierce opens the discussion by addressing a serious escalation in threats from Mexican drug cartels targeting U.S. law enforcement. According to an internal memo first reported by NewsNation, cartels are preparing to deploy bomb-laden suicide drones and other explosives against U.S. Border Patrol agents and military personnel.

NewsNation Reporter [00:31]: “Cartels are planning to deploy bomb laden suicide drones and other types of explosives on US Law enforcement.”

The memo highlights social media directives from cartel leaders, urging agents to be vigilant, report any drone sightings, and arm themselves with protective gear, including rifles and first aid kits. Furthermore, cartels have incited attacks on ICE agents, advising illegal migrants to engage in disruptive behaviors and encouraging hitmen to assassinate officials.

Tim Pierce [00:23]: “Mexican drug cartels are reportedly gearing up to attack U.S. border Patrol agents and military personnel.”

This alarming development underscores the intensifying challenges at the border and the administration's efforts to bolster security in response to these threats.

2. Tariff Deal Talks with Mexico and China

Georgia Howe reports on the latest developments in tariff negotiations, highlighting a temporary delay in President Trump's tariffs on Mexican goods.

Georgia Howe [01:10]: “President Trump's tariffs on Mexico will be delayed for 30 days. That's following talks with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.”

In exchange for this pause, Mexico has committed to deploying 10,000 National Guard troops to the U.S. border to combat drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. This agreement follows Trump's recent imposition of a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian goods, a move aimed at addressing illegal drug and migrant flows but criticized by economists for potentially pushing Mexico into recession.

Trump remains steadfast in defending the tariffs:

Donald Trump [01:47]: “If they wanted to play the game, I don't mind. We can play the game all they want... we have among the lowest numbers we've ever had of people crossing our border, the lowest numbers since my administration.”

Meanwhile, tensions with China persist as Cabot Phillips discusses China’s readiness to negotiate tariff terms amidst new U.S. tariffs.

Cabot Phillips [02:20]: “The new willingness from China comes after the Trump administration imposed new 10% tariffs on Chinese goods set to take effect tomorrow.”

China seeks to revisit the 2020 phase one trade deal and is open to treating TikTok as a commercial matter, though certain aspects like its algorithm remain uncertain. Both nations appear eager to de-escalate tensions to stabilize their critical trade relationship.

3. U.S. Withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council

Georgia Howe further highlights a significant policy shift as the U.S. prepares to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and cut funding to UNRWA.

Georgia Howe [02:58]: “The US Is set to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and cut off funding to UNRWA. The executive order is set to be signed by President Trump today.”

This move aligns with Trump's "America First" agenda, criticizing the council for its perceived bias against Israel and the misuse of U.S. funds. The executive order also tasks Secretary of State Marco Rubio with reviewing international organizations that promote anti-American sentiment, particularly focusing on UNESCO.

This decision marks a return to Trump’s first-term policies, reinforcing his administration's focus on national sovereignty and strategic alliances.

4. Panama’s Strategic Shift Away from China

Tim Pierce and Tim Rice discuss Panama’s recent decision to sever ties with China’s Belt and Road Initiative following negotiations with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Tim Rice [04:05]: “The move comes amid pressure from President Trump, who's raised concerns over China's influence on the Panama Canal.”

Panama President Jose Raul Molino asserts that Panama maintains sovereignty over the canal but signals a strengthening of U.S. ties. This strategic pivot includes allowing U.S. Navy vessels free passage through the canal, potentially saving the U.S. up to $3 million annually. Additionally, House Republicans have proposed a bill to repurchase the canal, aligning with Trump’s objectives to regain control over this vital waterway, which handles 72% of U.S.-bound maritime traffic.

Trump remains resolute in his stance:

Donald Trump [04:44]: “They violated the agreement. They're not allowed to violate the agreement... we're going to take it back or something very powerful is going to happen.”

This development reflects the enduring competition between the U.S. and China for strategic influence in key global infrastructures.

5. GOP Push for Media Accountability

Tim Pierce covers a political push led by figures like Doge, who are demanding that NPR and PBS leadership testify before Capitol Hill. The letters target NPR CEO Catherine Maher and PBS's Paul Kerger, accusing them of bias, particularly citing NPR's refusal to report on the Hunter Biden laptop scandal in October 2020.

Tim Rice [05:01]: “When asked to defend the decision, NPR released a statement calling the story a waste of time and a distraction.”

This demand for accountability comes amid broader accusations of media bias, reflecting the ongoing tension between GOP lawmakers and major news organizations. The episode underscores the increasing scrutiny on public broadcasters regarding their editorial choices and perceived impartiality.

6. Beyoncé’s Controversial Grammy Win

Shifting to the cultural arena, Georgia Howe recounts Beyoncé’s unexpected triumph at the latest Grammy Awards. Beyoncé won Album of the Year for her record "Cowboy Carter," delivering the award amidst a standing ovation from Los Angeles County firefighters.

Georgia Howe [05:30]: “Outlets and Beyoncé was able to lasso herself a Grammy for Album of the Year last night for her record, Cowboy Carter.”

In a surprising twist, Beyoncé also secured Best Country Album, despite not receiving any endorsements from the Country Music Association (CMA), sparking significant backlash online. This unconventional win highlights Beyoncé’s expanding influence across diverse music genres. Following her Grammy success, she promptly announced her "Cowboy Carter 2025" tour, further cementing her multifaceted presence in the entertainment industry.

Cabot Phillips [05:46]: “The Grammy goes to Cowboy Carter.”

Tim Pierce [05:51]: “Beyoncé.”

Tim Rice [05:52]: “Beyoncé.”

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Tim Pierce provides a brief overview of additional stories covered earlier in the morning, including the Trump trade war, the Democratic National Committee's new leadership, and notable actions by Elon Musk and Doge concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Tim Pierce [06:12]: “In case you missed it, this morning we covered some important stories, including the Trump trade war, the DNC's new leadership, and Musk and Doge rooting out DEI.”

The hosts invite listeners to visit Daily Wire’s website for more in-depth coverage and sign off with a promise of more updates the following morning.

Key Takeaways:

• Border Security: Increased threats from Mexican cartels necessitate heightened vigilance and preparedness among U.S. law enforcement.
• Trade Negotiations: Delays in tariffs with Mexico and renewed talks with China indicate ongoing complexities in international trade relations.
• Policy Shifts: The U.S. withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council signals a recommitment to national sovereignty and strategic alliances.
• Geopolitical Moves: Panama’s distancing from China’s initiatives underscores the strategic tug-of-war between global superpowers.
• Media Scrutiny: GOP efforts to hold public broadcasters accountable reflect deepening partisan divides over media integrity.
• Cultural Impact: Beyoncé’s genre-defying Grammy wins highlight her versatile influence in the music industry.

For a more detailed exploration of these topics, visit DailyWire.com.