Morning Wire Podcast Summary Episode: FBI Believes NOLA Terror Suspect Acted Alone | Afternoon Update | 1.2.25 Release Date: January 2, 2025
Overview of the New Orleans Terror Attack
In the latest Morning Wire episode, hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe delve into the tragic New Year's Eve terror attack in New Orleans. Initially suspected to involve a terror cell, authorities have now concluded that the perpetrator, Shamsud Din Jabbar, acted alone. The attack resulted in the death of 15 individuals, with Jabbar himself succumbing in a shootout with police shortly after the incident.
Georgia Howe reported:
"Federal agents are sweeping locations across several cities as investigations continue. That includes the search of a New Orleans Airbnb allegedly tied to Jabbar and a home in Houston." (00:11)
FBI Investigation and Potential Links to Other Incidents
During a press conference, the FBI addressed speculations connecting the New Orleans attack to the Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion, clarifying that no definitive link has been established at this stage.
FBI Spokesperson stated:
"At this point, there is no definitive link between the attack here in New Orleans and the one in Las Vegas. And again, I'll preface as I close, I'll preface everything with what I started with in the beginning, which was this is very early in an investigation like this." (00:44)
Las Vegas Cybertruck Explosion Details
Parallel to the New Orleans incident, authorities have identified Matthew Livelsberger, a Colorado resident and army veteran, as the driver behind the Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Livelsberger had rented the vehicle via Turo and loaded it with explosive devices, fireworks-style mortars, camping fuel, and a detonation device. The explosion resulted in his death and injuries to several others.
Tim Rice, Daily Wire Deputy Managing Editor, provided details:
"The suspect in the terror attack in New Orleans was also a military veteran, and the truck he used was also rented on Touro." (01:14)
Presidential and Governor Responses
President Joe Biden has taken swift action in response to the attacks. He convened his national security team to receive updates on the New Orleans investigation and emphasized the allocation of all necessary resources to law enforcement agencies.
President Biden remarked:
"To make sure every resource, every resource is made available to federal, state and local law enforcement to complete the investigation in New Orleans quickly and to make sure there is no remaining threat to the American people." (02:02)
In a display of solidarity, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry visited Bourbon Street, the attack site, and spoke to the resilience of the community.
Governor Jeff Landry shared:
"We can't live in fear because fear will paralyze us. We come down to the city to enjoy ourselves and to entertain ourselves and to be with our friends and with our families because that's who we are." (02:27)
Personal Impact: Former Athlete Among Victims
The attack also claimed the life of Martin Tiger Beck, a former Princeton Tigers wide receiver and Two Ivy League championships winner. His brother, Jack Beck, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, highlighting their close bond.
Jack posted:
"Love you always, brother. You inspired me every day. Now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family tea. Don't worry, this is for us." (03:01)
Presidential Honors and Political Reactions
In a surprising move, President Biden awarded Liz Cheney, a prominent Trump critic, the Presidential Citizens Medal alongside Democrat Rep. Vanny Thompson. This honor, the second-highest civilian medal, is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to the nation.
Amanda Presto Giacomo, Daily Wire reporter, elaborated:
"Republicans say the move is yet more proof that the J6 committee was overtly political from the start. Cheney and Trump have frequently traded barbs, and the former Republican congresswoman even went as far as joining Kamala Harris on her failed presidential campaign." (03:47)
Media Criticism from The New York Post
The episode also touches on a scathing editorial from The New York Post, which criticizes journalists for allegedly concealing or ignoring signs of President Biden's mental fitness. Mary Margaret Olihan, Daily Wire senior reporter, discusses the fallout from this editorial.
Mary Margaret Olihan reported:
"Concerns about Biden's health surged after viral moments of confusion, a Wall Street Journal report on his faltering demeanor and a disastrous June debate performance. And while the White House refuses to give any validity to these reports, many liberal journalists have since admitted regret calling their defense a Biden a major misstep. As trust in the media hits historic lows, the Post insists that those who tried to keep this under wraps must be held responsible." (04:28)
Conclusion
The Morning Wire afternoon update provides a comprehensive overview of the day's critical events, from the tragic terror attacks to the ensuing political and media reactions. With insightful analysis and firsthand quotes, listeners are kept informed of the latest developments shaping the national discourse.
For more in-depth coverage of these stories, visit dailywire.com or tune into the full episode of Morning Wire every morning.