The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson
Episode: Jack Smith Faces Hatch Act Inquiry plus Trump’s Policies Slash Illegal Crossings by 87%
Release Date: August 4, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The 47 Morning Update, host Ben Ferguson delves into two significant and timely issues impacting the political and social landscape of the United States. The first focuses on the unfolding investigation into Jack Smith, the former special counsel who targeted former President Donald Trump, potentially violating the Hatch Act. The second examines the dramatic reduction in illegal border crossings under the Trump administration's stringent immigration policies.

Story 1: Jack Smith Faces Hatch Act Inquiry

Overview

Ben Ferguson opens the episode by addressing alleged corruption within the Obama and Biden administrations, specifically targeting Jack Smith, the special counsel appointed to investigate Donald Trump. Smith is now under scrutiny by the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) for possible violations of the Hatch Act, which prohibits government employees from engaging in certain political activities.

Key Details

• Initiation of Investigation: The OSC has officially launched an investigation into Jack Smith following a letter from Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton. Cotton alleges that Smith unlawfully used his position to influence the 2024 election against Trump.

• Scope of Allegations: The probe is expected to examine whether Smith's actions during his investigations into Trump's handling of classified documents and the events of January 6, 2021, were politically motivated in a manner that violates the Hatch Act.

• Media Coverage and Political Reactions: Ferguson criticizes mainstream media for underreporting this development, suggesting that Democrats will dismiss the investigation as politically motivated. He emphasizes the significance of these allegations, noting that both of Smith’s cases against Trump—relating to classified documents and election interference—were ultimately dismissed.

Notable Quotes

• Chanley Painter (Fox News) [04:09]: "Former Trump prosecutor Jack Smith is now under investigation for potentially violating the Hatch Act, which restricts government employees from engaging in political activities."

• Ben Ferguson [05:54]: "The OSC has Smith under a microscope, and this is the beginning of what could be other possible issues for him."

Analysis and Implications

Ferguson underscores the potential ramifications of this investigation, suggesting it could uncover broader misconduct within the Department of Justice. He highlights the timing of Smith’s resignation—just nine days before Trump’s inauguration—as suspicious and indicative of possible ulterior motives. Additionally, Ferguson points to actions taken by Trump post-resignation, such as suspending security clearances of law firm members associated with Smith, further implying a politically charged environment.

Conclusion

The investigation into Jack Smith represents a significant development in the ongoing political battles between Trump and Biden administrations. Ferguson anticipates that this scrutiny may lead to broader revelations about governmental overreach and partisan bias within federal institutions.

Story 2: Trump’s Policies Slash Illegal Crossings by 87%

Overview

Shifting focus, Ben Ferguson highlights the substantial decrease in illegal border crossings under the Trump administration’s enforcement policies. He presents this reduction as a direct result of stringent measures aimed at securing the U.S. borders, contrasting it with the previous administration’s more lenient approach.

Key Details

• Statistics and Trends:

  • In June 2024, under the Biden administration, Border Patrol agents apprehended 30,766 migrants.
  • By June 2025, this number plummeted to 3,995, marking a 87% decrease year-over-year.
  • July saw further declines, with a nationwide record low of 24,630 apprehensions, a 2.4% drop from June.
  • The lowest single-day apprehensions recorded were 88 at the southwest border and 116 nationwide on July 20th.

• Operational Successes:

  • Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, National Guardsmen, and Border Patrol agents have been instrumental in these reductions.
  • Notable operations include the capture of three Chinese nationals near Mission, Texas, and multiple arrests of illegal aliens attempting to evade law enforcement using thick brush and stolen vehicles.

• Quotes from Officials:

  • Kristi Noem [Timestamp not provided]: "The numbers don't lie. This is the most secure the border has ever been. We put the cartels on defense and taken our border back."

Notable Quotes

• Kristi Noem [Timestamp not provided]: "President Donald Trump didn’t just manage the crisis, he obliterated it. No more excuses."

• Ben Ferguson: "KRISTI Noem put it out this way and she said in her tweet... 'The numbers don’t lie. This is the most secure the border has ever been.'"

Analysis and Implications

Ferguson argues that the Trump administration's enforcement strategies have not only significantly reduced illegal crossings but have also disrupted the operations of human smugglers and cartels. He emphasizes the contrast between the present administration and Biden's, attributing the success to dedicated law enforcement efforts and clear messaging that deters potential migrants.

Ferguson also addresses the national security implications, highlighting concerns about illegal immigrants potentially carrying terrorist intentions. By showcasing specific examples of arrests and operations, he underscores the tangible benefits of the administration's hardline stance on immigration.

Conclusion

The dramatic reduction in illegal border crossings is presented as a testament to the effectiveness of the Trump administration’s policies. Ferguson posits that these measures have restored order and security to the U.S. borders, challenging narratives of border chaos and reinforcing the administration's commitment to national safety.

Takeaways

• Political Accountability: The investigation into Jack Smith highlights ongoing tensions and potential misuse of power within federal institutions, raising questions about political impartiality in high-stakes investigations.

• Border Security Achievements: The significant decrease in illegal crossings under the Trump administration is portrayed as a major success, emphasizing the importance of stringent border enforcement in maintaining national security and integrity.

• Media Representation: Ferguson criticizes mainstream media for inadequate coverage of these critical issues, positioning The 47 Morning Update as a necessary source for unfiltered and comprehensive news analysis.

Final Thoughts

Ben Ferguson effectively combines investigative reporting with political analysis to shed light on pivotal developments affecting the nation. By focusing on the scrutiny of Jack Smith and the advancements in border security, the episode provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current political climate and its implications for America's future.

This summary was generated based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the key discussions and insights from the episode for those who have not listened.