The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson

Episode: Iran’s Economy Just Got Put on Life Support — Blockade Over Bombs
Date: April 13, 2026
Host: Ben Ferguson

Episode Overview

In this episode, Ben Ferguson zeroes in on a wave of terrorism on U.S. soil, focusing on two major attacks: a shooting at Old Dominion University in Virginia by an ISIS supporter, and an attack on a Michigan synagogue targeting children. Ferguson discusses the unfolding investigations, the Trump administration’s response, and—most prominently—the acts of heroism that stopped the attackers and saved lives. He argues that these brave responders deserve national recognition and uses the incidents to illustrate the broader state of terrorism and security in America.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Acts of Terror on American Soil

• Virginia’s Old Dominion University Attack (05:24 – 08:02)

  • The attacker, Muhammad, a former Virginia National Guard member and convicted ISIS supporter, entered a classroom building, asking for the ROTC class, then opened fire while shouting "Allah Akbar."
  • Victims: Retired military officer and ROTC leader Lt. Col. Brandon Shaw killed, two ROTC cadets wounded.
  • Immediate response: ROTC cadets tackled and killed the suspect, preventing further tragedy.

  “These were not active duty soldiers. They were students, young men and women sitting in a classroom who in a split second made the decision to risk their own lives to save the lives of others. And not only did they do it, they succeeded.”
  — Ben Ferguson [08:02]

• Michigan Synagogue Attack (08:15 – 10:15)

  • An attacker drove a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, with 140+ children inside for preschool.
  • Goal appeared to be mass child casualties.
  • Synagogue security neutralized the attacker before major harm; children evacuated safely.
  • 30+ first responders treated for smoke inhalation; security guard struck by the vehicle survived.

  “If the attacker had gotten inside that building fully armed, the outcome could have been catastrophic. But again, heroes, they stepped in.”
  — Ben Ferguson [08:44]

2. Law Enforcement & Government Response

• FBI’s Stance and Ongoing Investigations (07:42 – 11:17)

  • Both incidents officially investigated as terrorism, with ties to ISIS/support for isil.
  • FBI Director Cash Patel pledges full support and coordinated response; examining digital evidence for outside involvement.

  “The FBI is now the lead investigative agency investigating this as an act of terrorism. The shooter has been identified as Mohammed Baylor Jalo. In 2016, Jalo was arrested and pled guilty for attempting to provide material support to isil, now known as isis.”
  — FBI Official [10:54]

  • FBI and local authorities increase security for religious institutions and public spaces, warning of “sleeper cells” and lone wolf threats.

• Synagogue Preparedness (12:28 – 12:52)

  • Temple Israel had undergone an active shooter drill just six weeks prior, believed to have directly contributed to the efficient response and minimized casualties.

  “They held an active shooter training session or drill six weeks ago at this temple.”
  — FBI Official [12:44]

• Federal & State Leadership Reaction (12:52 – 15:00)

  • Trump administration’s clear condemnation of the attacks.
  • President Trump labeled ROTC cadets “true American heroes.”
  • Commitment to pursue terrorists at home and abroad, with increased security nationwide.
  • Calls for heroes to be honored at the White House.

  “The administration... expressed condolences to the family of Lt. Col. Shaw, honoring his decades of military service. Officials emphasized that the United States will continue to pursue terrorists both overseas and domestically. The message from the administration is clear, America will not be intimidated by terrorists or terrorism.”
  — Ben Ferguson [13:28]

3. Societal Reflections & Takeaways

• Recognition of Heroism (13:28 – 15:00)

  • Ferguson calls for public ceremonies or national honors for the ROTC cadets, synagogue security, and first responders.
  • Emphasis on America’s resilience: when evil arises, ordinary people step up with extraordinary courage.
  • Reinforcement that terrorism may strike, but community response can and does prevent disaster.

  “The bigger takeaway is there are two big stories. The first is about terror radicalized extremists attempting to bring violence into American communities. And the second story is the one that deserves just as much attention. And that one is about courage.”
  — Ben Ferguson [14:10]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On ROTC Cadets’ Heroism

  “They are heroes that should be honored, in my opinion, at the White House.”
  — Ben Ferguson [14:35]

• On Community Preparedness

  “They had just done, as they described it, dry runs on this exact location. Training for this being a real possibility.”
  — Ben Ferguson [12:20]

• On U.S. Resolve

  “The president of the United States of America making it very clear he will not back down and America will not be intimidated by these terrorists. What we will do is hunt them down and take them out wherever they are in the world.”
  — Ben Ferguson [15:15]

Important Segment Timestamps

| Segment Topic | Timestamp | |----------------------------------------|:-------------:| | Podcast content begins | 03:25 | | Virginia Old Dominion attack details | 05:24 – 08:02 | | Michigan synagogue attack details | 08:15 – 10:15 | | FBI response and terrorism context | 10:15 – 12:52 | | Synagogue preparation & active shooter drill | 12:28 – 12:52 | | Trump administration statements | 12:52 – 15:00 | | Ferguson emphasizes heroism and America’s response | 13:28 – 15:00 |

Summary

This gripping episode delivers a sobering picture of ongoing terrorism threats in America, alongside a celebration of the everyday heroes and official resolve that confront them. Ben Ferguson’s impassioned commentary focuses on the strength of community, courage, and preparedness—underscoring that, even amid terror, acts of bravery prevail and must be honored.

Listeners come away with a clear sense of the facts and emotional impact of both incidents, the official response at all levels, and the host’s call for recognition of American heroism in the face of adversity.