Evening Wire: Iran Rejects Ultimatum & East Palestine Investigated | 6.20.25

Summary

Evening Wire: Iran Rejects Ultimatum & East Palestine Investigated | June 20, 2025

In the June 20, 2025 episode of Evening Wire, hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe delve into a spectrum of pressing national and international issues. From escalating geopolitical tensions and domestic policy battles to high-profile security incidents and cultural reflections, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current news landscape. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented throughout the episode.

---

1. Escalating Conflict Between Iran and Israel

The episode opens with an in-depth analysis of the intensifying hostilities between Iran and Israel. Dr. Jordan B. Peterson outlines Israel's strategic military escalation against Iran, highlighting targeted strikes on critical infrastructure.

• Israel's Offensive Actions:

  • Peterson (00:37): "One week into the conflict with Iran, Israel is ramping up its attacks on the Islamic Republic. The defense minister has ordered intensified strikes targeting nuclear research facilities and missile production hubs, aiming to destabilize Iran's leadership."

• Iran's Stance on Negotiations:

  • Georgia Howe (01:05): "Meanwhile, Iran appears to have once again shut the door on negotiations with the United States."
  • Abbas Iraqi (01:13): "There would be no room for dialogue until what he called Israeli aggression comes to an end. Washington had sent multiple messages seeking talks, all of which Tehran has rejected."

• U.S. Presidential Ultimatum:

  • Georgia Howe (01:33): "Based on the substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision within the next two weeks."

Despite Iran's rejection, the White House maintains a stance of cautious optimism.

• White House Position:
  • Peterson (01:49): "The White House says President Trump is still holding out hope for new diplomacy over Tehran's nuclear program."

This segment underscores the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations and the potential ramifications of continued military actions.

---

2. Presidential Victory Over California's Governor in National Guard Control

The episode transitions to a significant domestic political development involving President Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom's dispute over the National Guard's authority.

• Court Ruling Favoring President Trump:

  • Tim Rice (02:13): "In a unanimous ruling yesterday, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals allowed the president to retain command of National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles, reversing a lower court order that had handed control back to Newsom."

• Historical Significance:

  • Rice (02:13): "This marks the first time since 1965 a president has taken such action without a governor's consent."

• President Trump's Reaction:

  • Rice (02:13): "Trump celebrated the decision on Truth Social, saying the ruling affirms the federal government's responsibility to protect cities when local forces can't. He also questioned Newsom's competence."

This victory reinforces the federal executive's authority in managing state-level crises, setting a precedent for future conflicts between state and federal governments.

---

3. Security Incidents and Law Enforcement Challenges

The hosts address several high-profile security incidents, highlighting ongoing challenges in law enforcement and public safety.

• Arrest of Dagosh Vandenberg:

  • Georgia Howe (02:56): "A New Mexico man is behind bars after allegedly plotting attacks on law enforcement during the LA riots. Vandenberg faces federal charges and could spend up to 10 years in prison if convicted."

• LA Dodgers vs. ICE Access Dispute:

  • Amanda Presegiacomo (03:34): "The Dodgers denied ICE agents access to their stadium parking lot, but ICE later clarified that their visit was unrelated to enforcement activities. This conflicting information sparked protests demanding federal agents leave the city."

• Attack on U.S. Attorney John Sarcone:

  • John Sarcone (04:38): "I kept my eye on him and he definitely appeared to be up to something crazy... Then out of the corner of my eye he starts coming towards me."
  • Georgia Howe (07:20): "Morales Garcia, who has a criminal history in multiple states, faces attempted murder and weapons charges and is being held without bail."

These incidents reflect the volatile environment surrounding law enforcement operations and the complexities of managing public and federal interactions.

---

4. Florida's Proposal for a Remote Detention Center

Highlighting state-level immigration policies, the episode discusses Florida Attorney General James Utmyer's controversial plan.

• "Alligator Alcatraz" Proposal:

  • Peterson (05:15): "The Sunshine State's attorney general has proposed converting a remote Everglades airfield into a detention center for illegal immigrants... He says the remote, swampy surroundings and native wildlife would serve as a deterrent against escape."

• Facility Details:

  • Peterson (05:15): "The nearly abandoned facility could be ready in a couple of months and hold up to 1,000 detainees."

Utmyer's plan emphasizes Florida's aggressive stance on immigration enforcement, mirroring previous federal initiatives.

---

5. Surviving a Lightning Strike Amid Severe Storms

The episode shares a harrowing personal story from a New York teen who survived a lightning strike during severe thunderstorms.

• Teen's Experience:

  • Peterson (07:57): "Apparently I'm pretty lucky because my spine was directly against the tree and no nerve damage happened... So I'm pretty happy about that."

• Impact of the Storms:

  • Howe (08:09): "Storms knocked out power in the Northeast and canceled flights across the country."

This segment underscores the unpredictable and dangerous nature of extreme weather events.

---

6. Trump Administration's Investigation into East Palestine Train Derailment

Focusing on environmental and public health concerns, the hosts discuss the ongoing investigation into the East Palestine train derailment.

• Investigative Efforts:

  • Peterson (08:17): "The Trump administration is investigating the effects of dangerous chemicals on the people of a small Ohio town following 2023's devastating train derailment."

• Government Involvement:

  • Peterson (08:17): "Vice President Vance and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the new initiative, emphasizing the need to study long-term exposure effects on residents."

This initiative highlights the administration's commitment to addressing past environmental disasters and safeguarding community health.

---

7. CNN's Future Amid Corporate Restructuring

The episode examines the uncertainties facing CNN as its parent company undergoes significant structural changes.

• Warner Brothers Discovery Split:

  • Howe (09:03): "Warner Brothers Discovery is splitting into two companies, separating cable networks from studios and streaming services. The split is expected to complete next year."

• Impact on CNN:

  • Howe (09:03): "CNN's new parent company is poised to make substantial cuts to its programming to balance the books. Staffers have reported low morale, describing recent years as a disaster."

• Performance Metrics:

  • Howe (09:03): "CNN saw its second-worst month ever in May."

The restructuring poses significant challenges for CNN's operational stability and market position.

---

8. Cultural Reflection: The Enduring Legacy of the "Jaws" Theme

In a lighter yet nostalgic segment, the hosts reflect on the cultural impact of the iconic "Jaws" theme.

• Historical Significance:

  • Peterson (09:46): "The two-note score from Jaws debuted on June 20, 1975, and became the defining sound of society. Composer John Williams won his first Oscar for the theme, which has since become a pop culture staple."

• Cultural Influence:

  • Peterson (09:46): "Terrifying in its original form and comedic in its countless parodies, the theme's widespread recognition makes it ripe for both parody and praise."

This reflection emphasizes how certain cultural elements can achieve lasting prominence and influence over decades.

---

Conclusion

The Evening Wire episode from June 20, 2025, delivers a multifaceted exploration of contemporary issues, balancing international conflicts with domestic policy debates and societal events. By integrating expert analysis, firsthand accounts, and cultural insights, hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the day's most critical stories.

For a more in-depth look at these topics, visit Daily Wire.

Transcript

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

This is Dr. Jordan B. Peterson.

[Richard Karn]

Watch Parenting, available exclusively on Daily Wire.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

Plus, we're dealing with misbehaviors with our son. Our 13 year old throws tantrums. Her son turned to some substance abuse.

[Richard Karn]

Go to DailyWirePlus.com today.

[Georgia Howe]

Iran refuses to negotiate with Trump as Israel intensifies attacks. ICE corrects the record following claims from the LA Dodgers and Florida makes a proposal that only Florida could I'm Georgia Howe with Daily Wire Executive Editor John Bickley. It's Friday, June 20th, and this is Evening Wire.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

One week into the conflict with Iran, Israel is ramping up its attacks on the Islamic Republic. Israel's defense minister ordered the military to intensify strikes targeting dozens of sites overnight, including a nuclear research facility and several missile production hubs. He called for attacks on regime power centers like the Revolutionary Guard and the Bazaj militia. The the IDF says more than 60 warplanes were involved, aiming to destabilize Iran's leadership.

[Georgia Howe]

Meanwhile, Iran appears to have once again shut the door on negotiations with the United States. Daily Wire reporter Tim Pierce has the latest.

[Abbas Iraqi]

Speaking on Iranian state media, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Iraqi declared there would be no room for dialogue until what he called Israeli aggression comes to an end. He also accused the US of being a full partner in the attacks, saying Washington had sent multiple messages seeking talks, all of which Tehran has rejected. This comes after President President Trump gave the regime an ultimatum yesterday.

[Georgia Howe]

I have a message directly from the president and I quote, based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks.

[Abbas Iraqi]

Despite the comments, the White House says President Trump is still holding out hope for a new diplomacy over Tehran's nuclear program. Iraqi is expected to meet with European foreign ministers in Geneva to discuss the crisis, but Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will not be part of those talk.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

President Trump gets a major win in his tug of war with California Governor Gavin Newsom over control of the National Guard. Daily Wire Deputy Managing editor Tim Rice has more.

[Tim Rice]

In a unanimous ruling yesterday, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals allowed the president to retain command of National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles, reversing a lower court order that had handed control back to Newsom. The court ruled Trump acted lawfully and was permitted to federalize the Guard when regular forces are insufficient to enforce US Laws. While the judges rejected the idea that such decisions decisions are beyond judicial review, they upheld the president's authority in this case citing a federal statute. This marks the first time since 1965 a president has taken such action without a governor's consent. Trump celebrated the decision on Truth Social, saying the ruling affirms the federal government's responsibility to protect cities when local forces can't. He also questioned Newsom's competence.

[Georgia Howe]

A New Mexico man is behind bars after allegedly plotting attacks on law enforcement during the LA riots. Federal prosecutors say 48 year old Dagosh Vandenberg bought mortar explosives and fireworks, telling a store clerk that he planned to use them against police and government officials. The clerk reported him helping the FBI thwart the plan. Vandenberg faces federal charges and could spend up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

Federal officials are pushing back after the LA Dodgers claim to have denied ICE agents access to their stadium parking lot. Daily Wire reporter Amanda Presegiacomo has the details.

[Amanda Presegiacomo]

In a statement yesterday, the Dodgers said Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents had requested entry, which they refused. But ICE quickly denied that posting on social media that the claim was false, insisting they were never there. Customs and Border Protection later clarified that its vehicles were briefly on site, but the visit was unrelated to any enforcement activity or the Dodgers themselves. The conflicting reports triggered a protest outside the stadium, with demonstrators demanding federal agents leave the city.

[Georgia Howe]

A previously deported illegal immigrant is in custody after he allegedly attacked a U.S. attorney with a knife in New York state. Prosecutors say 40 year old Saul Morales Garcia charged at New York's Northern District Attorney John Sarcone outside a hotel and threatened to slit his throat. Sarcone escaped and helped to stop the suspect before deputies arrested him. As Sarcone tells Fox News, he could have just kept watch, but he just had a feeling that the man was dangerous.

[John Sarcone]

I kept my eye on him and he definitely appeared to be up to something crazy. Instead of keep going, I went across the street and I stood in front of the Hilton and I kept my eye on him. Didn't look at him directly. Next thing you know he starts screaming at me in a language I didn't understand. I didn't acknowledge him. I kept looking straight ahead. Then out of the corner of my eye he starts coming towards me.

[Georgia Howe]

Morales Garcia, who has a criminal history in multiple states, faces attempted murder and weapons charges and is being held without.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

Bail in what might be the most Florida thing ever. The Sunshine State's attorney general has proposed converting a remote Everglades airfield into a detention center for illegal immigrants. In a video posted Thursday, Florida AG James Utmyer dubbed the site Alligator Alcatraz, referencing the Dade Collier training airport. He says the remote, swampy surroundings and native wildlife would serve as a deterrent against escape. People get out, there's not much waiting for them other than alligators and pythons. Nowhere to go, nowhere to hide, he says. The nearly abandoned facility could be ready in a couple of months and hold up to 1,000 detainees. Utmyer says Florida is leading the charge in immigration enforcement, echoing the Trump administration's daily arrest goals.

[Richard Karn]

Hi, I'm Richard Karn and you may have seen me on TV talking about the world's number one expandable garden hose. Well, the brand new Pocket hose Copperhead with Pocket Pivot is here and it's a total game changer. Old fashioned hoses get kinks and creases at the spigot, but the Copperhead's pocket pivot swivels 360 degrees for full water flow and freedom to water with ease all around your home. When you're all done, this rust proof anti burst hose shrinks back down to pocket size for effortless handling and tidy storage plus your super light and ultra durable pocket hose. Copperhead is backed with a 10 year warranty. What could be better than that? I'll tell you what an exciting exclusive offer just for you for a limited time. You can get a free pocket pivot and their 10 pattern sprayer with the purchase of any size Copperhead hose. Just text water to 64,000. That's water to 64,000 for your two free gifts with purchase W A T E R to 64,000. By texting 64,000 you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message and data rates may apply. No purchase required. Terms apply. [e-mail] Terms.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

A driver gets handcuffed after hitting the wrong car. A young woman allegedly clipped a black SUV belonging to security for the New York Attorney General. A TikTok video shows a member of Letitia James Security demanding the driver get.

[Abbas Iraqi]

Out of her car.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

The man then handcuffed the woman and put her in the back seat of his suv. The woman's arrest was later voided. James's office says it's investigating the incident internally.

[Georgia Howe]

A New York teen says he's pretty lucky after surviving a lightning strike as severe thunderstorms hit the Northeast. The teen was with friends in Central Park. The group took shelter under a tree, which was hit by lightning. The teenager was alert when the ambulance took him to the hospital.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

Apparently I'm pretty lucky because my spine was directly against the tree and no nerve damage happened. So I'm like not losing any sort of motor function. So I'm pretty happy about that.

[Georgia Howe]

He's expected to make a full recovery. Meanwhile, yesterday's storms knocked out power in the Northeast and canceled flights across the country.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

The Trump administration is investigating the effects of dangerous chemicals on the people of a small Ohio town following 2023's devastating train derailment. Following the East Palestine train derailment years ago, chemicals the train was transporting were injected into the community in various ways, reportedly putting residents at risk. Vice President Vance and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Announced the new initiative in a video posted to social media. Science had never actually tried to understand what the long term exposure of these trace chemicals would do to people. As much as I tried as a United States senator to work with the Biden administration, they refused to do anything but to actually study the effects of these long term exposures on the people of East Palestine.

[Georgia Howe]

CNN faces an uncertain future as its parent company prepares for a major restructuring. Last week, Warner Brothers Discovery announced that it's splitting into two companies. With its cable networks being cordoned off from its studios and streaming service. The split is expected to be completed next year. CNN's new parent company is expected to make big cuts to its programming to balance the books. CNN staffers told Fox News that morale is and called the last few years a disaster. CNN saw its second worst month ever in May, and.

[Dr. Jordan B. Peterson]

It'S a theme that changed movie history and still sends chills 50 years later. The iconic two note score from Jaws debuted on June 20, 1975, and became the defining sound of society. Spence composer John Williams won his first Oscar for the theme, which has since become a pop culture staple. Terrifying in its original form and comedic in its countless parodies, film historian Tim Grieving says the fact it's so widely recognized makes it ripe for parody and praise.

[Georgia Howe]

Those are your Drive Home updates this evening. To learn more about these stories, go to dailywire.com and in case you missed it, this morning we covered some major stories, including Trump setting a deadline for Iran, economic optimism on the rise amid strong new data, and an alarming report on ChatGPT helping minors get abortion pills. Thanks for tuning in. We'll be back tomorrow morning with another weekend edition of Morning Wire.