Evening Wire: Tennessee Sees Deadly Floods & Arkansas SAFE Act | 8.13.25

Summary

Evening Wire: Tennessee Sees Deadly Floods & Arkansas SAFE Act | August 13, 2025

In the August 13, 2025 episode of Evening Wire presented by Morning Wire from The Daily Wire, hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe, along with guest Ben Shapiro, delve into a range of pressing national and international issues. This comprehensive summary captures the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during the episode.

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1. Severe Flooding in Tennessee

Overview:
Southern Tennessee is grappling with severe weather conditions that have resulted in deadly flash floods. The region, particularly Chattanooga, has been declared a state of emergency following torrential rains.

Key Details:

• Casualties: At least three people are confirmed dead—two adults and one child—due to a large tree falling on a vehicle. Additionally, one person remains missing after being swept away by floodwaters.
• Response Efforts: The Chattanooga Fire Department has conducted multiple rescues, assisting individuals trapped in stranded vehicles and flooded homes.

Notable Quote:

"[...] the Chattanooga Fire Department has conducted several rescues, including helping people trapped in stranded vehicles and inundated homes." (Ben Shapiro, 00:57)

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2. Ukraine's Stance on Ceasefire Ahead of Trump-Putin Meeting

Overview:
Amidst ongoing tensions, Ukraine has expressed openness to a potential U.S.-backed ceasefire with Russia. However, skepticism remains regarding Russia's willingness to engage sincerely.

Key Details:

• Ukraine’s Position: Ukrainian President Zelensky’s adviser indicated that while Ukraine is ready to discuss a ceasefire as a preliminary step, they anticipate Putin's reluctance to fully cooperate, citing Russia's commitment to strategic aviation and extensive drone deployments.

Notable Quote:

"Russia is unlikely to forego the use of strategic aviation and the massive deployment of drones." (Georgia Howe, 01:33)

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3. Venezuelan Migrants Sue Trump Administration

Overview:
A group of Venezuelan migrants, alongside left-wing activists, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the termination of Biden-era protected status.

Key Details:

• Legal Grounds: The plaintiffs argue that the abrupt revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans violates their rights and was executed unlawfully.
• Affected Individuals: The lawsuit, filed in Boston federal court, includes Democracy Forward, the Venezuelan Association of Massachusetts, and three Venezuelan migrants.

Notable Quote:

"It is time for you to leave the United States." (Ben Shapiro, 02:05)

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4. Extradition of Mexican Cartel Leaders to the U.S.

Overview:
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Mexico has extradited 26 top cartel leaders to the United States as part of a deal initiated by President Trump.

Key Details:

• Charges: The extradited individuals face multiple criminal charges, including drug trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, gun crimes, human smuggling, money laundering, and murder.
• Government Response: Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the role these leaders played in fueling violence and drug-related issues in the U.S., ensuring they face severe consequences.

Notable Quote:

"These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores." (Georgia Howe, 02:54)

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5. Decline in U.S. Foreign-Born Population

Overview:
The United States has experienced a significant decline in its foreign-born population, with a notable reduction in illegal immigrants.

Key Details:

• Statistics: From January to July, the foreign-born population decreased by 2.2 million, while illegal immigrants fell by 1 million.
• Causative Factors: The decline is attributed to President Trump’s stringent rhetoric, high-profile enforcement actions, and robust border policies.

Notable Quote:

"His rhetoric, high profile enforcement actions and border policies have caused a large number of illegal immigrants to leave the country and many fewer to enter." (Ben Shapiro, 03:30)

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6. Tragic Collision Involving Mother of Former WNBA Star

Overview:
A heartbreaking incident occurred when an illegal immigrant collided head-on with the vehicle of Darcy Connolly Bruner, the mother of former Phoenix Mercury WNBA star Sophie Bruner.

Key Details:

• Incident: Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene in Freeport, Illinois.
• Background: The immigrant, Rolando Ecoch, had a criminal history including DUI, felony DUI, and battery.
• Political Implications: Local lawmakers are attributing blame to Illinois’ sanctuary policies, with Representative holding Governor J.B. Pritzker personally accountable.

Notable Quote:

"I do think we could go into a series of rate cuts here, starting with a 50 basis point rate cut in September." (Georgia Howe, 04:14)

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7. Increased Arrests in Washington D.C. Following Trump’s Crackdown

Overview:
Law enforcement has intensified operations in Washington D.C., leading to over 100 arrests since President Trump’s crackdown on crime in the Capitol.

Key Details:

• Recent Activity: Federal forces, including the National Guard and various federal agencies, made 43 arrests in a single day.
• Authority Duration: The President can maintain federal control over D.C.’s law enforcement for up to 30 days without congressional approval.

Notable Quote:

"When you let good cops be cops, they can clean up our streets and do it fast. Your nation's capital will be safe again." (Ben Shapiro, 04:46)

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8. Confusion Over D.C. Police Chain of Command

Overview:
A question arose regarding the chain of command following Trump’s federalization of the D.C. Police Department, leading to public confusion.

Key Details:

• Police Chief’s Response: Chief Pamela Smith gave an unclear reply, prompting immediate clarification from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.
• Public Perception: Chief Smith faced criticism on social media for perceived incompetence, especially given her previous role leading the department's DEI efforts.

Notable Quote:

"How we do business, how we fund the police. None of that has changed." (Georgia Howe, 05:34)

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9. U.S. National Debt Surpasses $37 Trillion

Overview:
The national debt has surged past $37 trillion, reaching this milestone much earlier than projections had anticipated.

Key Details:

• Growth Rate: The debt is increasing by approximately $1 trillion every six months.
• Government Response: Treasury Secretary Scott Besant highlighted the unsustainable levels of government spending but suggested that future tariff growth could balance tax cuts costs. A surplus was noted in June.

Notable Quote:

"The US passed the $37 trillion milestone years earlier than expected." (Ben Shapiro, 05:50)

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10. Treasury Secretary Urges Federal Reserve to Cut Rates

Overview:
Treasury Secretary Scott Besant is advocating for the Federal Reserve to implement significant interest rate cuts in the upcoming month.

Key Details:

• Proposed Cuts: Besant suggests reducing rates by 150 to 175 basis points.
• Economic Rationale: The aim is to stimulate economic growth and address the burgeoning national debt.

Notable Quote:

"It's time for the Fed to start cutting rates asap." (Georgia Howe, 06:31)

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11. Arkansas SAFE Act Now Enforced

Overview:
Following an 8-2 decision by the Court of Appeals, Arkansas enforces the SAFE Act, which restricts medical procedures for transgender minors.

Key Details:

• Law Provisions: The act prohibits doctors from performing or referring transgender procedures for minors, emphasizing state authority over parental or medical discretion.
• Legal Basis: The majority opinion highlighted the lack of historical or traditional support for overriding state laws on such matters.

Notable Quote:

"The SAFE act bars doctors from performing or referring kids to transgender procedures." (Ben Shapiro, 06:46)

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12. Kennedy Center Honors Nominees Announced by Trump

Overview:
President Trump has revealed the first Kennedy Center Honors nominees since his administration took over the center, featuring a mix of music legends and iconic performers.

Key Details:

• Nominees Include: George Strait, Sylvester Stallone, the rock band Kiss, Gloria Gaynor, and Michael Crawford.
• Selection Process: Trump asserted significant involvement in the nomination process, rejecting previous "woke" selections.

Notable Quote:

"I would say I was about 98% involved. No, they all went through me. [...] I turned down plenty. They were too woke." (Ben Shapiro, 07:21)

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13. Arizona Iced Tea Pricing Potential Increase Due to Aluminum Tariffs

Overview:
Arizona Iced Tea, known for its 99-cent pricing, faces potential price hikes due to high aluminum tariffs affecting their can production costs.

Key Details:

• Supply Chain Impact: Approximately 20% of Arizona’s aluminum comes from Canada; without reduced tariffs, costs may rise.
• Market Significance: As America’s top-selling tea brand with around 2 billion cans sold annually, changes could affect consumer pricing significantly.

Notable Quote:

"Unless the US makes a deal to lower aluminum tariffs on Canada, it may have to raise prices." (Ben Shapiro, 08:05)

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14. Controversy Over American Eagle’s Sydney Sweeney Ad

Overview:
An American Eagle advertisement featuring actress Sydney Sweeney sparked debate, with claims of hidden Nazi symbolism criticized primarily by left-leaning individuals.

Key Details:

• Public Opinion: A poll revealed that only 12% found the ad offensive, while the majority viewed it as clever or remained indifferent.
• Demographic Insights: More Democrats perceived the ad as offensive compared to Republicans. Additionally, a gender gap was noted, with fewer women than men finding the ad offensive.

Notable Quote:

"A recent American Eagle ad campaign featured actress Sydney Sweeney posing in jeans with the caption, 'Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.'" (Georgia Howe, 08:31)

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Conclusion

The Evening Wire episode delivered a robust analysis of critical issues ranging from natural disasters and international relations to domestic policies and cultural controversies. Hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe, supported by Ben Shapiro, provided in-depth coverage, enriched with direct quotes and timely insights, ensuring listeners are well-informed on the latest developments shaping the nation and the world.

For further details on these stories, visit dailywire.com.

Transcript

[Ben Shapiro]

These are questions that take cultures thousands of years to answer. During Answer the Call, I take questions from people just like you about their problems, opportunities, challenges, or when they simply need advice. How do I balance all of this grief, responsibility?

[John Bickley]

How do you repair this kind of damage?

[Ben Shapiro]

My daughter Mikayla guides the conversations as we hopefully help people navigate their lives. Everyone has their own destiny. Everyone.

[Georgia Howe]

Flooding in Tennessee leaves multiple people dead and more unaccounted for. Mexico extradites more than two dozen cartel bosses to the US And President Trump announces the first Kennedy Center Honors nominees since his takeover. I'm Georgia Howe with Daily Wire executive editor John Bickley. It's Wednesday, August 13th, and this is Evening Wire.

[Ben Shapiro]

At least three people are dead and one is missing amid severe weather and flash flooding in southern Tennessee. Daily Wire reporter Zach Jewell has more. Officials have declared a state of emergency in Chattanooga after more than 6 inches of rain fell on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. So far, three people have been confirmed dead. Two adults and a child were killed when a large tree fell on a car early Wednesday. Officials say a search effort was launched for a man last seen being swept up Tuesday night in floodwaters on East Brainerd Road. Fox Weather reports that the Chattanooga Fire Department has conducted several rescues, including helping people trapped in stranded vehicles and inundated homes.

[Georgia Howe]

Ahead of Trump's big sit down with Putin, Ukraine says that it's open to a potential U S backed ceasefire with Russia. The problem is Putin, an adviser to Ukrainian President Zelensky, said in an interview Tuesday that Ukraine is ready to discuss a ceasefire and sees it as the initial stage for reaching realistic negotiating positions. However, Ukraine's leader thinks Putin will end up refusing to cooperate. According to one of Zelensky's advisers, quote, russia is unlikely to forego the use of strategic aviation and the massive deployment of drones.

[Ben Shapiro]

A group of Venezuelan migrants and left wing activists are suing the Trump administration. This follows Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ending the protected status for Venezuelans granted by Biden. Daily Wire reporter Spencer Lindquist has more. The lawsuit claims that the Trump administration violated their rights in how it handled ending the temporary protected status for Venezuelans handed out by President Biden. The suit was filed in Boston federal court by left wing group Democracy Forward, the Venezuelan association of Massachusetts and three Venezuelan migrants. They claim that dhs, CBP and Immigration Services broke the law through the sudden and unlawful termination of of the protected status back in April. They particularly objected to an email from DHS telling the migrants, quote, it is time for you to leave the United States.

[Georgia Howe]

Dozens of Mexican drug cartel fugitives have been extradited to the US as part of a deal with Trump. Mexico has sent 26 of its top cartel leaders to the US where they now face criminal charges including drug trafficking, hostage taking, kidnapping, gun crimes, human smuggling, money laundering and murder. The men are linked to Mexican drug cartels that have been classified as terrorist organizations by the Trump administration. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the extradition on Tuesday, saying, quote, these 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores. Under the Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country.

[Ben Shapiro]

The foreign born population in the US declined by 2.2 million from January to July. A new report from the center for Immigration Studies estimates that the number of illegal immigrants fell by one in the same period. This comes after the number and share of foreign born persons in America hit an all time high in January. The report credits the trend to President Trump saying, quote, his rhetoric, high profile enforcement actions and border policies have caused a large number of illegal immigrants to leave the country and many fewer to enter.

[Georgia Howe]

The mother of a former WNBA star was killed Saturday when an illegal immigrant crossed into the wrong lane and collided with her vehicle head on. Ukraine and company host David Cohn reports.

[John Bickley]

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. In Freeport, Illinois, the illegal immigrant, Rolando Ecoch, had a rap sheet that included dui, felony, DUI and battery. Local lawmakers blamed Illinois sanctuary policies, with One representative holding Governor J.B. pritzker personally responsible for the incident. The mother, Darcy Connolly Bruner, leaves behind her husband and four children, including Sophie Bruner, who played forward for the Phoenix mercury in the WNBA.

[Ben Shapiro]

Law enforcement in D.C. have arrested more than 100 people since Trump's crackdown on crime in the Capitol. Daily Wire reporter Tim Pierce has more. 43 arrests were made yesterday alone by federal forces, which include the National Guard, FBI, DEA, ATF and U.S. capitol Police. In a post on X, FBI Director Kash Patel said, quote, when you let good cops be cops, they can clean up our streets and do it fast. Your nation's capital will be safe again. Under current law, the president may maintain federal control of D.C. law enforcement for up to 30 days. Beyond that, Congress would need to step in and authorize an extension.

[Georgia Howe]

The D.C. police chief gave a baffling response to a reporter's simple question on Tuesday. When asked what the chain of command is now that Trump has federalized the department, Police Chief Pamela Smith gave the following reply, that's what the chain of.

[Ben Shapiro]

Command is now what does that mean?

[Georgia Howe]

D.C. mayor Muriel Bowser quickly stepped in to field the question, explaining, quote, how we do business, how we fund the police. None of that has changed. Chief Smith, who previously led the Police Department's DEI efforts, was skewered on social media for incompetence.

[Ben Shapiro]

The United States national debt has now surpassed $37 trillion. Daily Wire senior editor Joel Niedler has more.

[John Bickley]

The Treasury Department released the number in a report published yesterday. The US passed the $37 trillion milestone years earlier than expected. The Congressional Budget Office had predicted the national debt would not pass $37 trillion before fiscal year 2030. At the current rate, the debt is increasing by $1 trillion about every six months. Some predict the one big beautiful bill will also increase the national debt. Treasury Secretary Besant said the current levels of government spending are unsustainable. But the secretary says future growth in tariffs will offset the costs of tax cuts. And the treasury did see a surplus in June.

[Georgia Howe]

Treasury Secretary Scott Besant is urging the Fed to slash rates next month. His ideal goal? 150 to 175 basis points lower. Speaking to Bloomberg Surveillance, Bessen said it's time for the Fed to start cutting rates asap.

[Ben Shapiro]

I do think we could go into a series of rate cuts here, starting with a 50 basis point rate cut in September. An Arkansas law shielding kids from transgender medical procedures can now be enforced after an 8 to 2 Court of Appeals decision Tuesday, the Save Adolescents From Experimentation act is now in full effect. The majority wrote that neither the history or tradition of the nation supports the idea that parents or doctors can override state law determining that a procedure is inappropriate for minors. The SAFE act bars doctors from performing or referring kids to transgender procedures.

[Georgia Howe]

President Trump has announced the first Kennedy Center Honors nominees since his takeover of the center. The nominees include country music star George Strait, Rocky, actor Sylvester Stallone and rock band Kiss. Other nominees are singer Gloria Gaynor and actor singer Michael Crawford. The president said he was heavily involved in selecting the nominees.

[Ben Shapiro]

I would say I was about 98% involved. No, they all went through me. They came over Rick and Sergio and everybody. They said I turned down plenty. They were too woke. I had a couple of wokesters. No, we have great people. This is very different than it used to be.

[Georgia Howe]

Trump also said he will host the awards program.

[Ben Shapiro]

The 99 cent price tag on Arizona iced teas may soon be coming to an end. Arizona uses about 100 million pounds of aluminum aluminum to make its cans and about 20% of that aluminum comes from Canada, the company says. Unless the US makes a deal to lower aluminum tariffs on Canada, it may have to raise prices. The brand is America's top selling tea company and sells about 2 billion cans per year. That 99 cent price is an iconic.

[Georgia Howe]

Feature of the brand and only 12% of people found the Sydney Sweeney Great Jeans ad offensive, but Democrats apparently missed the joke. Daily Wire reporter Megan Basham has the details.

[Megan Basham]

A recent American Eagle ad campaign featured actress Sydney Sweeney posing in jeans with the caption, sydney Sweeney has great jeans. Now, many leftists attacked the ad for supposed Nazi dog whistles, but a new poll shows the majority of people found the ad clever or they had no strong opinion about it. On the political divide, more Democrats than Republicans found the ad offensive. But even among Democrats, more people found the ad clever and a majority of Republicans considered the ad clever. The poll also found a larger gender gap than a political gap. Fewer men than women thought the ad was offensive, about one third of all women thought the ad was clever, and about half of men agreed.

[Ben Shapiro]

All right, that's your Drive Home updates. To learn more about these stories, go to dailywire.com in case you missed it. This morning we covered some major stories, including Trump's economy getting another shot in the arm, the fallout over Trump's D.C. takeover, and the latest on Gaza. Thanks for tuning in. We'll be back tomorrow morning with another full edition of Morning Wire.