Podcast Summary: The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson – "Ukraine Deep Dive: Biden Fake Photo Op; Travels to Kiev, not Ohio; Russia Ending New Start Treaty Is Good For America"

Release Date: February 22, 2023

Introduction

In this episode of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson, host Ben Ferguson engages in a critical discussion with Senator Ted Cruz, focusing on President Joe Biden's recent trip to Ukraine, the authenticity of the accompanying photo opportunities, and the broader implications of Russia's withdrawal from the New START Treaty. The conversation delves deep into the administration's foreign and domestic policies, media portrayal, and national security concerns.

Biden’s Ukraine Trip: A Staged Photo Opportunity

Senator Ted Cruz begins by scrutinizing President Biden's visit to Kyiv, suggesting that the trip was meticulously orchestrated for public relations purposes rather than substantive diplomatic efforts. Cruz highlights a suspicious incident involving air raid sirens that went off precisely as Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky exited the building for a photo op.

[02:09] Senator Ted Cruz: "They would be running. And if he wasn't running, the Secret Service would have run and grabbed him and put him in a shelter."

Cruz argues that the lack of a genuine response to the sirens indicates foreknowledge of the event, reinforcing the notion that the visit was a controlled media spectacle. He criticizes the media, specifically CNN, for airing the event without skepticism, labeling it as a "ridiculous farce."

[04:12] Senator Ted Cruz: "It is entirely theater, 100% for show."

Zelenskyy's Performing Background and Its Impact

The discussion shifts to President Zelenskyy's background as an actor, which Cruz believes influences his portrayal during the war. Zelenskyy's consistent use of military attire and controlled demeanor are seen as performative tactics to garner international support.

[09:55] Senator Ted Cruz: "Zelenskyy is engaged in theater as well."

Cruz emphasizes that both Biden and Zelenskyy’s lack of reaction to potential threats underscores a scripted approach, prioritizing image over actionable leadership.

Administration’s Focus on PR Over National Security

Senator Cruz criticizes the Biden administration for prioritizing public relations over critical national security objectives. He cites examples such as delayed visits to domestic crises like the East Palestine train derailment, suggesting that the administration neglects pressing American issues in favor of international posturing.

[14:41] Senator Ted Cruz: "Well, it is ridiculous that Joe Biden has not been to East Palestine yet."

He further points out the administration's handling of workforce challenges, such as Secretary Pete Buttigieg's extended absences during domestic crises, portraying it as indicative of a broader pattern of ineffective governance.

Accountability in Aid to Ukraine: Corruption Concerns

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the financial aid provided to Ukraine. Cruz expresses deep concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the disbursement of funds, highlighting Ukraine's history of corruption even before the Russian invasion.

[23:30] Senator Ted Cruz: "There is very little transparency, very little accountability as to where that money is going."

He warns of congressional scrutiny increasing due to an open-ended commitment to the Ukraine war, emphasizing the necessity for stringent oversight to ensure funds are allocated to military support rather than general economic aid.

Russia’s Withdrawal from the New START Treaty: A Boon for America

The conversation then transitions to Russia's exit from the New START Treaty, an arms control agreement aimed at limiting strategic offensive arms. Cruz frames this withdrawal positively for American national security, arguing that the treaty was disadvantageous and Russia's departure aligns with America's interests.

[34:54] Senator Ted Cruz: "This is unequivocally good for America. This treaty was bad for America."

He contrasts this with past administrations, particularly the Obama administration, criticizing their approach to arms treaties and defense strategies. Cruz advocates for a "peace through strength" philosophy, reminiscent of Ronald Reagan's Cold War policies, asserting that a robust military deterrent is essential for national security.

[35:13] Senator Ted Cruz: "How did we win the Cold War? We stood up to the Soviet Union. We called it out. We built up our military."

Cruz underscores the importance of not tying America's hands with restrictive treaties that allow adversaries like Russia and China to bolster their military capabilities unchecked.

Comparison to Reagan’s Foreign Policy: Emphasizing Strength Over Diplomacy

Drawing parallels to Reagan’s administration, Cruz argues that a strong military presence and unwavering stance against adversaries are crucial in preventing conflicts. He criticizes the Biden administration’s perceived weakness, suggesting it emboldens hostile nations.

[44:35] Senator Ted Cruz: "Deterrence works, but deterrence only works if you're strong enough that they're afraid of you."

He attributes the current geopolitical tensions and Russia’s aggressive maneuvers to Biden’s lenient policies, contrasting them with the more assertive strategies that led to the Soviet Union's eventual downfall.

Conclusion: Implications for American National Security and Future Policy

Senator Ted Cruz concludes by emphasizing the critical need for America to adopt a foreign policy centered on strength and accountability. He warns that without such an approach, the United States risks further eroding its national security and inadvertently fostering alliances among adversarial nations.

[46:36] Senator Ted Cruz: "Appeasement, particularly of bad actors, inevitably results in those bad actors getting worse."

Cruz calls for a strategic reassessment of current policies, advocating for greater military preparedness and stringent oversight of international aid to ensure it aligns with genuine national security objectives rather than political theater.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson provides a critical examination of President Biden’s foreign and domestic policies through the lens of Senator Ted Cruz’s perspectives. The discussion underscores concerns about the administration's prioritization of public relations over substantive policy actions, the handling of international alliances, and the need for a robust defense strategy to safeguard American interests.

Notable Quotes

• [02:09] Senator Ted Cruz: "They would be running. And if he wasn't running, the Secret Service would have run and grabbed him and put him in a shelter."

• [04:12] Senator Ted Cruz: "It is entirely theater, 100% for show."

• [09:55] Senator Ted Cruz: "Zelenskyy is engaged in theater as well."

• [14:41] Senator Ted Cruz: "Well, it is ridiculous that Joe Biden has not been to East Palestine yet."

• [23:30] Senator Ted Cruz: "There is very little transparency, very little accountability as to where that money is going."

• [34:54] Senator Ted Cruz: "This is unequivocally good for America. This treaty was bad for America."

• [35:13] Senator Ted Cruz: "How did we win the Cold War? We stood up to the Soviet Union. We called it out. We built up our military."

• [44:35] Senator Ted Cruz: "Deterrence works, but deterrence only works if you're strong enough that they're afraid of you."

• [46:36] Senator Ted Cruz: "Appeasement, particularly of bad actors, inevitably results in those bad actors getting worse."

Conclusion

For listeners seeking an in-depth analysis of current geopolitical dynamics and critiques of the Biden administration's policies, this episode offers a comprehensive overview from Senator Ted Cruz’s conservative standpoint. It emphasizes the importance of strong leadership and strategic defense in maintaining national security and preventing the strengthening of adversarial nations.