The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson: Episode Summary Episode: Let's Create a Signal Thread...What Could Go Wrong? plus Dems in Crisis, Embracing Rage & Violence
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Host: Ben Ferguson
Guest: Senator Ted Cruz

Introduction

In this episode of The 47 Morning Update, host Ben Ferguson engages in a robust discussion with Senator Ted Cruz, addressing a recent political controversy dubbed "Signal Gate," the escalating crisis within the Democratic Party, and the rising tide of rage and violence emanating from its ranks. The conversation delves into the implications of these developments for American politics, media narratives, and national security.

Signal Gate Controversy

Overview of the Incident

The episode kicks off with Ben Ferguson introducing Senator Ted Cruz to discuss the "Signal Gate" incident—a scandal involving confidential conversations on the encrypted Signal app. A journalist, Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic, was inadvertently added to a private group chat among top Trump administration officials discussing military strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Senator Cruz's Insights

Senator Cruz provides a detailed account of the mishap:

“The media are aflutter with, what they're calling Signal Gate... [03:06]” – Ted Cruz

He emphasizes that the inclusion of Goldberg was a clear mistake, comparable to a "butt dial," highlighting the accidental nature of the breach.

Substance Over Scandal

Despite the media frenzy, Cruz asserts that the substance of the discussions within the Signal thread showcased effective national security measures under President Trump:

“The substance of what's being discussed is actually quite good... [10:40]” – Ted Cruz

He praises the administration's actions against the Houthis, labeling them as "radical Islamic terrorists" funded by Iran, and contrasts these efforts with the perceived inaction during Joe Biden's tenure.

President Trump's Response

Cruz lauds President Trump's transparent handling of the situation:

“The President didn't run away from it. There was no comment... [11:10]” – Senator Cruz

He commends Trump for addressing the issue openly, unlike the previous administration, thereby earning appreciation from the American public.

Detailed Discussion on National Security

The conversation delves deeper into the strategic successes of the Trump administration in securing American shipping lanes and combating terrorism:

“Joe Biden and the Democrats, they didn't do a damn thing... [06:54]” – Ted Cruz

Cruz emphasizes the effectiveness of Trump's national security team, particularly lauding National Security Advisor Mike Waltz for his leadership and combat experience.

Democratic Party in Crisis

Embracing Rage and Violence

Shifting focus, Ferguson and Cruz discuss the alarming trend within the Democratic Party towards embracing rage and inciting violence:

“The Democrats today are the party of rage. They're the party of anger... [24:56]” – Senator Cruz

Cruz cites recent threats from Democratic figures, including Representative Jasmine Crockett, who has called for violence against him and mocked Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

Examples of Threats

Cruz recounts specific instances of hostility:

“We in these hot ass Texas streets, honey... Greg Abbott... [34:32]” – Ted Cruz

He describes Crockett's derogatory comments and her association with radical leftist groups, painting a picture of increasing internal turmoil and aggressive rhetoric within the party.

Impact on Public Perception

The episode highlights how such aggressive stances and threats have tarnished the Democratic Party's image, making it appear unhinged and out of touch with mainstream voters.

“There's a bigger issue that concerns me. It's the dog whistles that come from the leadership, by the way, Democratic Party... [30:48]” – Ben Ferguson

Media Coverage and Party Decline

Axios Report Analysis

Cruz references a critical report from Axios, a mainstream media outlet, which underscores the Democratic Party's struggles:

“Just this week there was an article in Axios... [39:16]” – Senator Cruz

The report, titled "Behind the Curtain: Dems Dark Deep Hole," outlines several challenges:

• Lowest favorability in nearly 50 years
• Lack of strong national leaders
• Insufficient numbers to block legislation in Congress
• Diminished influence over the media ecosystem
• Young voters increasingly leaning conservative

Declining Influence and Future Prospects

Cruz discusses the long-term implications of these findings, suggesting a bleak outlook for the Democrats in upcoming elections:

“The math for a Dem to win the presidency will just get harder in 2030... [39:16]” – Senator Cruz

He attributes the party's decline to its departure from traditional Democratic values, labeling its members as "Marxists and socialists and communists masquerading around."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on the current state of American politics. Ben Ferguson and Senator Ted Cruz emphasize the effectiveness of the Trump administration in national security, the Democratic Party's internal crisis marked by rage and violence, and the media's role in highlighting these issues. They express optimism that American voters are recognizing the Democratic Party's flaws, potentially leading to a resurgence of support for conservative policies and leadership.

Notable Quotes

• Ted Cruz on Signal Gate:
  “The media are aflutter with, what they're calling Signal Gate... [03:06]”

• Ted Cruz on Democratic Rage:
  “The Democrats today are the party of rage. They're the party of anger... [24:56]”

• Senator Cruz on Axios Report:
  “Behind the Curtain: Dems Dark Deep Hole... [39:16]”

• Ted Cruz on Personal Threats:
  “I have literally hundreds of death threats against me... [27:05]”

Key Takeaways

1. Signal Gate Incident: An accidental inclusion of a journalist in a private Signal chat sparked media controversy, but the underlying national security actions discussed were deemed effective by Senator Cruz.

2. Democratic Party's Internal Crisis: The party is increasingly characterized by anger and calls for violence, damaging its public image and voter support.

3. Media and Public Perception: Reports from credible media outlets like Axios confirm the Democratic Party's declining influence and favorability, posing challenges for future elections.

4. National Security Achievements: The Trump administration is credited with significant successes in combating terrorism and securing American interests, contrasting sharply with the previous administration's perceived inaction.

5. Future Political Landscape: The combination of Democratic disarray and Republican strategic gains may reshape the American political arena in favor of conservative leadership.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the episode, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the pressing political issues addressed by Ben Ferguson and Senator Ted Cruz.