Hour 3 - Nicole Parker, Fmr. FBI Special Agent

Summary

The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

Episode: Hour 3 - Nicole Parker, Former FBI Special Agent
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts

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Introduction

In the third hour of The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show, hosts Clay Travis and Buck Sexton welcome Nicole Parker, a former FBI Special Agent and Fox News contributor. Nicole provides an insider’s perspective on recent developments within the FBI, particularly focusing on the reassignment of agents who were photographed kneeling during the 2020 racial justice protests. Her insights shed light on the cultural and operational shifts within the bureau under new leadership.

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FBI Reassignment of Kneeling Agents

Timestamp: [01:35] – [06:42]

Clay Travis initiates the discussion by addressing a controversial move by the FBI leadership—reassigning agents who participated in the kneeling protests after George Floyd's death. He references the current FBI Director, Cash Patel, and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, questioning the rationale and implications of such disciplinary actions.

Notable Quote:

“The things that happened were so bizarre and insane, I can't begin to tell you.”
— Clay Travis [02:30]

Nicole Parker responds by detailing her firsthand experience within the Miami division during the incident. She explains that the photos of agents kneeling became a significant internal scandal, dubbed "Neil Team Six," symbolizing the problematic behavior that contradicted the FBI’s core values.

Notable Quotes:

“FBI1 were solid FBI agents that just came to do their job. They took an oath to uphold the Constitution and to protect the American people and to put all political persuasions aside.”
— Nicole Parker [04:38]

“These FBI agents are... making a political and social statement and kneeling to protesters. It looked like those kneelers were in support of the cause of the George Floyd protesters. That is entirely inappropriate.”
— Nicole Parker [06:42]

Nicole categorizes the FBI into two factions: FBI1, representing the traditional, duty-bound agents, and FBI2, comprising individuals who improperly intertwined their law enforcement roles with personal political agendas. She criticizes the latter for undermining the bureau’s integrity and highlights the leadership’s current efforts to rectify these issues by enforcing accountability.

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Cultural Shifts and Leadership Under Cash Patel

Timestamp: [06:42] – [14:28]

The conversation delves deeper into the cultural transformations within the FBI. Buck Sexton references historical shifts, comparing them to changes observed in the CIA, suggesting a broader trend of increasing ideological influence within federal agencies.

Notable Quote:

“There really are two FBIs, okay? I call it FBI1 versus FBI2.”
— Nicole Parker [04:38]

Nicole Parker elaborates on the changes, attributing them to shifts in hiring standards and the introduction of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that, in her view, have diluted the agency’s focus on law enforcement excellence. She argues that these programs have introduced unnecessary social justice agendas, distracting agents from their primary responsibilities.

Notable Quotes:

“The FBI and their DEI hiring, their hiring standards changed drastically. So the type of individuals that they were looking to hire, agents and support staff, I would say changed drastically.”
— Nicole Parker [07:19]

“The FBI used to operate versus how it is operating now. But again, immediately they are changing and increasing the physical fitness requirements to a higher level at the FBI. In the test, they are getting rid of DEI entirely.”
— Nicole Parker [08:55]

She recounts personal experiences, including the tragic loss of a colleague who was killed in the line of duty, to illustrate the consequences of the FBI’s shifting priorities. Nicole criticizes the bureau’s inconsistent responses to severe versus minor incidents, highlighting a perceived double standard in resource allocation and operational focus.

Notable Quote:

“I want to make no part of this. And America needs to know what's going on here.”
— Nicole Parker [11:03]

Nicole underscores her departure from the FBI as a result of witnessing these detrimental changes, emphasizing her commitment to restoring the agency’s foundational principles of neutrality and unwavering dedication to law enforcement.

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Impact of DEI and Internal Accountability

Timestamp: [11:03] – [14:28]

The discussion continues with Nicole addressing the impact of DEI initiatives within the FBI. She argues that these programs have led to the proliferation of numerous social justice clubs, which she believes are unnecessary distractions from the FBI’s primary mission.

Notable Quotes:

“We know you do not wear your official FBI marked ballistic vest in public, making a political and social statement and kneeling to protesters.”
— Nicole Parker [06:42]

“They claim that they were in fear of violence... but most of them are female and they're clapping and cheering. Totally inappropriate.”
— Nicole Parker [08:55]

Nicole advocates for the ongoing reforms under Directors Patel and Bongino, expressing optimism that these changes will unify the FBI into a single, effective entity devoid of political and social biases. She emphasizes the importance of holding individuals accountable to maintain the bureau’s integrity.

Notable Quote:

“It's all about when it fits their narrative and when it's convenient for them. But this is not equal enforcement of the law.”
— Nicole Parker [11:27]

Nicole’s narrative paints a picture of an FBI at a crossroads, grappling with internal divisions and external pressures. She calls for a return to the agency’s core values, free from ideological influences that compromise its mission.

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Conclusion and Future Outlook

Timestamp: [14:28] – [14:44]

As the segment concludes, Ryan Seacrest thanks Nicole for her candid insights, encouraging listeners to follow her on social media and highlighting her visibility on Fox News. Nicole reciprocates the gratitude, emphasizing her commitment to raising awareness about the FBI’s internal challenges.

Notable Quote:

“All I can do is educate people. It's a small step, but it's something.”
— Nicole Parker [14:44]

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Key Takeaways

• Internal Divisions: Nicole Parker highlights a significant cultural split within the FBI between traditionally committed agents (FBI1) and those influenced by personal political agendas (FBI2).
• Leadership Reforms: Under Directors Cash Patel and Dan Bongino, the FBI is undergoing reforms aimed at restoring accountability and neutral law enforcement practices.
• Critique of DEI: Nicole criticizes DEI initiatives for introducing unnecessary social justice agendas that detract from the FBI’s core mission.
• Personal Accountability: Nicole’s experiences and personal losses underscore the real-world impact of these internal changes, reinforcing her call for meaningful reforms.
• Future Optimism: Despite current challenges, Nicole remains hopeful that the FBI can realign with its foundational principles through continued leadership efforts and internal accountability.

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Reflections

Nicole Parker’s interview on The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show provides a compelling insider’s perspective on the FBI’s struggles with maintaining its foundational principles amid evolving leadership and cultural pressures. Her testimony underscores the importance of accountability and neutrality in federal law enforcement agencies, highlighting the potential ramifications of ideological influences on operational integrity.

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For more insights and detailed discussions, listen to the full episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.

Transcript

[Podcast Host]

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[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Clay Travis]

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[Podcast Host]

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[Leon Neyfakh]

In the fall of 1986, Ronald Reagan found himself at the center of a massive scandal that looked like it might bring down his presidency. It became known as the Iran Contra affair.

[Clay Travis]

The things that happened were so bizarre and insane, I can't begin to tell you. Please do.

[Leon Neyfakh]

To hear the whole story, listen to Fiasco Iran Contra on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Clay Travis]

All right, third hour, Clay and Buck kicks off now, joined for the first time by Nicole Parker, former FBI Special Agency the Fox News contributor. Nicole, welcome to the program.

[Nicole Parker]

Thank you so much for having me. I really appreciate it.

[Clay Travis]

Let's dive into this, shall we? A story recently on. You know, it's funny, friends of ours run the FBI now. Cash Patel and Dan Bongino. It's pretty amazing. The deputy and the and the director and the FBI, under their leadership, has reassigned a few agents who had been photographed kneeling during the racial justice protests in 2020 after the death of George Floyd. First of all, what happened here? Like, how could this have gone on at the FBI in the first place? And is reassignment really a punishment? What can you tell us about this move?

[Nicole Parker]

All right, so first of all, I was in the Miami division working as an FBI special agent when this occurred. Those pictures were taken of the agents kneeling on June 4th of 2020. And internally at the FBI, those photos became popularly known as Neil Team Six. You know, kind of a sarcastic Play on Neal Team 6. Neal Team 6 instead. And it was quite, quite catastrophic. Internally at the FBI, I can tell you that agents were not happy. That is not a proper representation of who we are and how we should be behaving. And what they did, nailing the George Floyd protesters was unequivocally wrong. And current and retired agents were appalled by their actions, and it was embarrassing to good agents. Yet people say that because of these demotions and reassignments, there are other current and former FBI agents who are disgusted at their reassignments and disgusted at the demotions. So what I can tell you is that this is a clear example and clear demonstration of what I witnessed at the FBI. There really are two FBIs, okay? I call it FBI 1 versus FBI 2. And the way I perceive it, FBI 1 were solid FBI agents that just came to do their job. They took an oath to uphold the Constitution and to protect the American people and to put all political persuasions aside. FBI, too, were those that oftentimes were in leadership roles. It wasn't just people in D.C. it was people from the top, and it trickled all the way down to the bottom. There were people in the support staff that also fall into FBI, too. These are individuals that use their law enforcement power to push their political and social agendas. And this demonstration of them kneeling, in my opinion, is the epitome of FBI2 behavior. And FBI1 was not happy about it because that is embarrassing and shameful behavior for an FBI one agent. And so, Nicole, the agents.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Yeah, no, no, I was just going to say. I thought you were finished answering that, but I was going to remind you, came on with us January 2nd, and I think this ties in with what you're saying right now. Right after the terror attack in New Orleans, they had an FBI agent go up and say that they didn't know whether this was a terror attack. How much do you think the culture has already changed inside of the FBI with Cash Patel now in charge and Dan Bongino second, based on what you're hearing.

[Nicole Parker]

So within this clear indication that this type of behavior is not tolerable. Again, this happened in June of 2020, and they're taking action on it now almost five years later. I think what it shows is that Cash Patel means business. Okay? President Trump won. The FBI and DOJ were politically and socially weaponized. And there are two FBI's right now. I'm sorry, there are. And what Cash Patel and Dan Bongino and all other solid leadership, the Trump administration, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Their goal is to make one FBI. We just want one solid FBI. And they're taking steps each and every day. Some of them are more publicly seen, some of them are behind the scenes. But this, to me is a huge bold move that indicates they mean business and people will be held accountable and there will be tangible consequences. And without tangible consequences, the FBI will remain 2 FBI. And so I like it. I think it's a bold move. I think FBI won, is supportive of this because again, this is not the demonstration of who we are. We know you do not wear your official FBI marked ballistic vest in public, making a political and social statement and kneeling to protesters. It looked like those kneelers were in support of the cause of the George Floyd protesters. That is entirely inappropriate. You can never make political or social statements on FBI time in FBI gear and especially in public. And the FBI is to remain politically and socially neutral. And under the Biden administration in particular, that was not the case.

[Clay Travis]

Well, how did this happen, Nicole, can I ask?

[Nicole Parker]

Just because T shirts inappropriate as well. You should not wear any political T shirt ever at the FBI.

[Clay Travis]

So when I was the CIA a long time ago, you could see that HR policy and some of the analyst cadre was just becoming more and more left wing all the time. And I think that was. I think the HR and admin was really where it started because, you know, agency guys who had been in for a long time were not tended not to be woke. But then it started to become more woke and more. More left wing and more ideologically, Ideologically driven. How could this happen at the FBI, though?

[Ryan Seacrest]

Right?

[Clay Travis]

We all watch. I mean, we're talking about the rock before. We think of the FBI as very, by the book, spit and polish, all about the law, and you got a bunch of communists running the place under Biden. How did that happen?

[Nicole Parker]

I think how it happened, it's twofold. Again, there were people that have always been at the FBI that have not really been necessarily doing the right thing, that were appointed to high leadership roles and positions. I think also the FBI and their DEI hiring, their hiring standards changed drastically. So the type of individuals that they were looking to hire, agents and support staff, I would say changed drastically. And so now you have just a different shift in how the FBI used to operate versus how it is operating now. But again, immediately they are changing and increasing the physical fitness requirements to a higher level at the FBI. In the test, they are getting rid of DEI entirely. There were 19 clubs and organizations, if you can believe that. How does the FBI have time for 19 social justice clubs until every single case and crime is solved. At the FBI, there's no time for that. But that's what this last administration specifically focused on, I thought, under the Obama administration as well. But I think the key is getting to the root of the problem. And again, we going back to the kneelers. They claim that they were in fear of violence. They thought that, you know, they were in fear for their lives. I personally saw no signs of violence or anyone being in imminent danger, death or serious physical injury. And in fact, many of the kneelers were clapping, they were smiling, they were cheering, and those are hardly signs of duress.

[Clay Travis]

Or wait, just real, real quick. The FBI people claim they kneeled because they were scared, correct?

[Nicole Parker]

These FBI agents, that's insane. They said that they were in fear for their lives of serious violence breaking out, but yet these. And most of them are female and they're clapping and cheering. Totally inappropriate. You don't look like you're in fear for your life. And if you're an FBI agent and you're in fear for your life because some protesters walk by, I can tell you, I knew of other agents at surrounding buildings because they were asked to stand in front of posts in front of these buildings to protect them. Other agents at other buildings weren't kneeling, and there was no major violence breaking out of those. I didn't see anyone charging at these agents where they felt that their life wasn't serious, you know, imminent danger of death or serious physical injury. I'm sorry. And I worked violent crime in Miami. If you were in fear for your life. The FBI highly trains us at Quantico. We go through firearms training, we go through defensive tactics training, quite extensive training. And if you were in fear for your life in that situation, with all due respect, you really should not be an FBI agent because if all you're capable of doing is working behind a desk and you're not able to face potential violence. We are sworn law enforcement officers as FBI agents, and you need to be able to stand on your own two feet, literally, and not kneel. But again, there was no one charging at them, laughing and smiling. And then what was more disgusting to us internally, these agents were thinking, they're going to get disciplined. They're probably going to get fired. If not, they're going to get disciplined. Not only did that not happen, they got some of the most highly sought after positions at the FBI. They were offered $100 gift cards by the FBI Agents association after that incident. It looked like they were rewarding them. And that's the FBI, too, that I worked under. And that is why I left the FBI, because myself and others looked at that and we said, this is wrong. This is embarrassing. This is shameful behavior. I want no part of this. And America needs to know what's going on here.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Nicole, thanks for coming on. And again, I love this perspective. Do you remember a moment you started enjoying the FBI to try to catch bad guys? Like Buck joined the CIA. Do you remember a moment in time when you were working and things shifted? When did the culture, the vibe start to change as an FBI agent? Do you remember a moment or was it a slow slide?

[Nicole Parker]

I would say it was a slow slide. But the defining moment that I initially noticed that the FBI was political because I started in 2010, it would be in 2016, when Jim Comey got in front of the American people on July 5th of 2016, and he said that no reasonable prosecutor would charge Hillary Clinton. Well, fast forward. Where was the reasonable prosecutor who wouldn't charge Donald Trump? And I'm, like, looking at it and I'm thinking, isn't that interesting? It's all about when it fits their narrative and when it's convenient for them. But this is not equal enforcement of the law. And for them to say that it is, that's insulting. It's insulting to the American people, and it's insulting to the FBI one agents. We're not stupid. Like, we knew exactly what was going on at the FBI. So for me, I would say July 5th of 2016, when Jim Comey got out there. Okay, so Benjamin Comey gets fired, rightfully. So Christopher Wray comes in. We're hoping that he'll be better. He wasn't. He wasn't any better at all. And so it ramped up very strongly in the summer of 2020 when we noticed that the FBI was doing virtually nothing to stop these violent rioters from burning down our country. And then Fast forward to January 6th of 2021. The FBI went full force for misdemeanors. And they did that for four straight years. But yet when our country was getting burned to the ground, virtually no response. January 6th, full force. And that happened over and over and over at the FBI. So. And then the Social Justice Warrior email. I started feeling like I worked for a social justice warrior club rather than a law enforcement agency. And I talked about this. My best friend was killed. She was shot and killed in the line of duty executing a warrant against a child predator. There was no SWAT team for her, yet they were liberally sending SWAT resources in the same time frame for 1-6- misdemeanors, but yet no SWAT team for the most violent offender that the FBI takes down. And now we have cued up that FBI agents, others were shot, but yet it was just so blatant. And then the FBI didn't even tell us what happened. They didn't even tell us what happened. But yet I got a DEI email almost every single day. Can you imagine how sad that was? My friend is dead. I don't know what's happened but yet I need to be informed that there's 19 different clubs at the FBI for social justice warrior preferences. I wanted no part of that. That's not why I joined. And sadly a lot of people like myself walked away from the bureau. But the good part now is I do believe in redemption and I do believe that there are so many good people still at the FBI and the key is proper leadership and bringing the right people on board and getting the FBI back on track.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Outstanding stuff as always. Nicole Parker encourage you guys to follow her on social media. Thank you for sharing your and thank you for giving us feedback on this. I wanted to make sure you came on when I saw it happen.

[Nicole Parker]

All right, well, I love y'all so much and keep up the good work and God bless y'all.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Thank you so much. Nicole Parker will share her social handles as well. You see her a lot on Fox News. Former FBI agent from Miami. Yesterday, another missile attack on Israel by Houthi rebels and one of those missiles unfortunately evaded the Iron Dome, struck during a struck a parking lot right by the main Tel Aviv airport. That's the exact same airport we flew into and out of in Israel when we went there last December. The Houthis have fired over two dozen missiles and drones into Israel recently. It's a constant reminder of an ever present threat. The Israeli government appreciates the international fellowship of Christians and Jews for their ongoing help to make sure the elderly, sick and impoverished families don't fall through the cracks. Your gifts to the fellowship today we'll provide life saving aid, medicine, hearty meals, safety and comfort. When we bless the people of Israel, we unlock God's blessing in our lives as well. Show your support for Israel by making a life saving gift today. Call to make your gift at 888-488-IFCJ. That's 888-488-4325. You can also go online at supportifcj.org one word support ifcj.org news you can count on and some laughs too.

[Clay Travis]

Clay, Travis and Buck Sexton.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Find them on the free iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Clay Travis]

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[Podcast Host]

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[Leon Neyfakh]

In the fall of 1986, Ronald Reagan found himself at the center of a massive scandal that looked like it might bring down his presidency.

[Clay Travis]

Did you make a mistake in sending arms to Tehran, sir?

[Ryan Seacrest]

No.

[Leon Neyfakh]

It became known as the Iran Contra affair and I'm not taking any more questions.

[Ryan Seacrest]

In just a second I'm going to.

[Leon Neyfakh]

Ask Attorney General I'm Leon Nayfak, co creator of Slow Burn. In my podcast Fiasco Iran Contra, you'll hear all the unbelievable details of a scandal that captivated the nation nearly 40 years ago, but which few of us still remember today.

[Clay Travis]

The things that happened were so bizarre and insane I can't begin to tell you. Please do.

[Leon Neyfakh]

To hear the whole story. Listen to Fiasco Iran Contra on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Welcome back in Clay Travis Buck Sexton show. Thanks to Nicole Parker who was just on with us. Former FBI agent. I wanted to play this cut for you guys. MSNBC just had to apologize on air. I don't think you've seen this yet. Buck has been spending more than at the FBI office. This is what they said on MSNBC that they felt the need to address or apologize for. Correct. Listen. And now let's circle back to a segment from Friday's show. Frank Ferglozzi was on that morning during this hour discussing the work of administration officials. At the end of that segment for Glus, he said that FBI Director Cash Patel has reportedly been more visible at nightclubs than at his office at FBI headquarters. This was a misstatement. We have not verified that claim. I feel pretty good that he's been at FBI headquarters more than he's been in nightclubs. I think that is pretty easy to verify.

[Clay Travis]

But was that, wasn't that just a snarky comment and not they didn't mean it. Right. I think this is interesting because it shows you how worried these networks are now about getting hit once again for lying about something such that they might even be overcompensating on some of these factual issues where I mean that that to me is something that clearly, clearly.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Designed to be like hyperbolic attack, but not literal.

[Clay Travis]

I don't think that whoever it was at MSNBC who said he's been at nightclubs more than he's been, the FBI was, was saying that that is a factual statement. Right. But they are certainly freaked out about the possibility of saying anything that could get them and get them in a place where they could be Sued, let's be honest. I mean, Trump has gone out there and sued these different. If that's for lying about Trump. But Casper tells the FBI director he could probably do the same thing. Yeah, I've never seen the disarray that we see right now from all of our, it's like we don't have any worthy opponents anymore. I don't know what else to say. They're trying to try to get something going and it's, it's pretty sad to watch the whole thing and they're just not up to the task. Right now. Trump has kind of just defeated the, he's just defeated the anti Trump media and they have to figure out why they exist beyond hating Trump because for a decade now, that's the only reason they've gotten up in the morning.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Well, I think this segues perfectly. I said we would play it. Speaking of defeating your enemies, Roger Goodell and the NFL just came and kissed the ring in the Oval Office. Trump announced the 2027 NFL Draft is going to be on the National Mall, which if you remember the relationship between them. This is a crazy moment. We haven't played this, I think cut 30.

[Roger Goodell]

I'm pleased to reveal that the 2027 NFL Draft, that's a big thing, will be held right here in our nation's capital, Washington, D.C. on the National Mall. And you get a little glimpse of it. I don't think I was just saying to Roger, I don't think there's ever been anything like that. That's a good idea. In fact, maybe we could use it for other things. Also, I have an idea. It's, it's going to be beautiful. It's going to be something that nobody else will ever be able to duplicate. That I don't suspect.

[Clay Travis]

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[Ryan Seacrest]

Oh no, so boring.

[Clay Travis]

I know. I went back to it, you know, you know, Morning Joe sent me a U up text and I was like, okay, fine, you know, I'll respond. So I try to watch. It's so boring and worthless that I turn it off. Honestly, in 10 minutes I couldn't even, couldn't even get through a full segment. It was just such a waste of time.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Is it fair to say that the combination of saying this was the best version of Biden and then showing up to bend the knee to Trump that basically that show just doesn't matter anymore? I mean, yeah, that's the way.

[Clay Travis]

At this rate, at this rate, Joe and Mika are going to be selling ShamWows in about six to 12 months. I mean, it's really, it's tough, it's tough over there. You know, it's, it's a bit like watching one big slow motion funeral for their careers. But anyway, yeah, the media is having a tough time. We'll talk about this Trump third term stuff in a second. I just have a question, Clay, just a curiosity thing. So you'll know this because I seem to recall finding out at some point years ago that because the NFL commissioner they're going to do the draft now on the law. So the president has now, we played that audio a minute ago. Does the NFL commissioner make like $40 million a year or just something completely outrageous? I feel like I could do that job and I don't even know anything about football.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Probably more than 40 million a year now. And the way they justify it is he's the CEO basically, of the NFL. But each of the 32 NFL teams kicks in like a million and a half dollars. So rounding basis like that isn't that much. But I think it's the best job in sports. And I think it is, to your point, also the easiest job in sports because people love football. And all you have to do is not be a complete and total moron and you can run that business.

[Clay Travis]

This is the classic thing. I think that people always need to remember that there are a lot of jobs out there that are really hard to get and not very hard to do. A lot of people want the job. I'm not saying it's easy to become that person or to get that role, but it's not hard to do. It's not hard to do. Dude, you. You or I could be, you know, tenured Harvard professors tomorrow. Like, very hard job to get. But you do way easier than what we're doing right now. And I love our jobs. Our jobs. I can't believe we get paid to do this, but there are a lot of jobs out there. And I just think NFL commissioner get just like go to meetings and talk about sports all day and make. I mean, how many players make 30 or 40 million dollars a year?

[Ryan Seacrest]

I would say increasingly more. And they would argue partly because of his leadership. But yeah, like, if you're a star quarterback in the NFL now, you make $50 million. A few receivers make really big money, defensive ends, but Roger Goodell is probably higher paid than 95% of NFL players. At least maybe 90. Yeah, 95 is probably a good guess. And. But I think the best job, I think that is an amazing job. I still think the best job in media relative to pay, you know, Judge Judy makes over $50 million a year. I've talked about this before because I think it's the best job anywhere in media. And she only works 30 days a year or something. They tape all those shows bang, bang, bang. So she barely has to be on set or in studio. Otherwise she can just travel around the world for the other 11 months out of the year, basically.

[Clay Travis]

But when some guy refuses to return the hose that he borrowed from his neighbor and the damages are in excess of 30 or $40, you need judge Judy to just be like, excuse me, sir, do you.

[Ryan Seacrest]

I think I could do that job. I think I could do Judge clay. Judge Judy's 85 years old. I think if they let me play the role of judge, I mean, I've got the law background. I think I could do that gig. And I. I might retire.

[Clay Travis]

I don't even have a lot of background, and I could do that. That gig. It'd be the easiest gig in the.

[Ryan Seacrest]

World, you know, But, I mean, that's the best 50 million to work 30 days a year. And really, I mean, that's not a high stress job. It's fun. You're trying to solve. Relatively inconsequential.

[Clay Travis]

Well, I've read about it. It's not even a legal. It's rather. It's not even a true court proceeding. It's binding arbitration. So she is just in the role of arbitrator for low, basically low stakes disputes.

[Ryan Seacrest]

My understanding is they go and they grab the small claims court cases that they think are interesting, get both parties to sign that they will agree to be bound by whatever her judgment is.

[Clay Travis]

And she's the arbitrator.

[Ryan Seacrest]

And basically all they have to do is just find somewhat interesting cases that they think their audience will respond well to. Probably doing interviews to find out whether or not the plaintiff and defendant are also entertained. I used to watch people score back in the day with Judge Wagner.

[Clay Travis]

I think Judge Wapner is the kind of the OG he may be the goat of the. Of the fake judge presiding over minor disputes with people, because I used to watch him, too, back in the day. So I'm afraid.

[Ryan Seacrest]

I mean, he was. He was definitely the guy that went. That took this into the stratosphere. Then you had Judge Joe Brown. You had all these different guys who were trying to be Wapner, but Judy is the one who's made the most money.

[Clay Travis]

And I'm also now just realizing, if you guys all push Clay into actually doing this Alcatraz swim, like, I can't. I can't leave my. Can't leave my wingman. You know, I'm gonna have to get in a wetsuit, too. And I'm not as buoyant as I used to be. So this is a little bit concerning. I'll be honest with you. You know, flotation is easier when you got a little extra to love on you. So I've lost some buoyancy in the last year.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Well, I'm told that the challenge is just to avoid getting swept out to sea. So I. You know, that is a. That's a pretty substantial. That's a good life lesson.

[Clay Travis]

And if we do see a big fin in the water, the good news is I don't have to outswim the shark. I just have to outswim Clay. So you know what I mean?

[Nicole Parker]

Yeah.

[Clay Travis]

Just got to Figure out which direction I got to go in. Joke about. About a bear in the woods. I'm sure you've heard that one, right? When the guy. Yeah, that's the bear with the two hikers. He's like, why are you taking off your hiking boots and putting on your sneakers? Because I don't have to outrun the bear. I just have to outrun you. Yeah, it's true.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Speaking of runs, this is disappointing. Brian Kemp, governor of Georgia, has just announced to the Atlanta Journal Constitution. This is breaking literally right now, that he will not run for Senate in the open Georgia Senate seat in 2026.

[Clay Travis]

Well, let's hope Republicans don't decide to lose a fourth winnable Senate seat in that state. That would be nice. We'll see. Wait, but we mentioned this third.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Yes.

[Clay Travis]

Third run thing, right? With the. With the. With the president. With President Trump running for a third time. He. He talked about this on NBC on their morning show, Meet the Press. This is cut four. Let's hear what the man himself said.

[Nicole Parker]

The Trump Organization is selling hats that say Trump 2028.

[Roger Goodell]

Yeah.

[Clay Travis]

Are you seriously considering a third term, Mr. President, even though it's prohibited by.

[Nicole Parker]

The Constitution, or is this about staying politically vile?

[Roger Goodell]

I will say this. So many people want me to do it. I have never had requests so strong as that. But it's something that, to the best of my knowledge, you're not allowed to do. I don't know if that's constitutional, that they're not allowing you to do it or anything else, but there are many people selling the 2028 hat. But this is not something I'm looking to do. I'm looking to have four great years and turn it over to somebod, ideally a great Republican. A great Republican, to carry it forward.

[Clay Travis]

Okay, Clay, this is. This is Trump being real for. Or, you know, this is him being serious for a moment. He's like, look, guys, like, it's not. Not really running for a third term. I want to have a great four years. So the media with their. He's a dictator. He's a fascist. Okay. He just likes to poke you. Just like we've said all along. Not a surprise. Here's what I think is interesting. He doesn't say who the successor is. And I've said this all along, and it's. But I don't think there is. I don't think this is in any way a judgment on J.D. vance from Trump. I think Trump so far has. Has nothing but good feelings and good, you know, basically everything that J.D. vance done, I think, has been on point since he's been the vice president. I don't think he's done anything that Trump wouldn't say. Great. High five. It's not about that. It was interesting when she raised this about, well, are you going to be in the game going forward? I think that Trump, as long as he is around, is going to be in the position of Republican kingmaker and he wants to see how things develop. He doesn't want to get ahead of himself and anoint anybody to successor this early, even though he has a vice president. You know, that's kind of a tradition. That's not really. Or I shouldn't even say it's a tradition. You know, vice president doesn't mean that you're the nominee the next time around if you have two terms. You know, a lot of people very happy with what Marco Rubio has been doing as Secretary of state. How do you see that? Because to me, the interesting part of this is more Trump positioning himself going forward as, as kingmaker and not Trump's going to run a third time. He's not going to run a third time.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Yeah. I really thought it was interesting that he specifically shouted out JD Vance and Marco Rubio because what it immediately made me think of Buck was it took me back to the 2016 sweepstakes when Obama set down Joe Biden and said, hey, my pick is gonna be Hillary. Now, there's obviously not the same mental cognition related issues for either Marco Rubio or J.D. vance at play, but the fact that Trump mentioned both made me kind of wonder how much of this will be a coronation of J.D. vance. And J.D. has pointed out, hey, if things go well for three years, I think there'll be a lot of opportunities for people who want to run. But how many challengers will JD Vance actually end up with? It's hard to forecast right now, but inside of the administration, Rubio is obviously very liked by Trump. He's got four different jobs right now, and J.D. vance was the pick. Remember? If I don't, I believe I'm correct. The final three that Trump considered were J.D. vance, Marco Rubio and Doug Burgum. And there were a lot of people pushing for Burgum and Rubio and a lot of people pushing for Vance too. But that seems to have been the final three that Trump made the decision about. And I just kind of wonder how this is going to all shake out because he seems to really like Rubio and he seems to obviously really like J.D. vance. Is it possible those guys run together and have a unity ticket or are we going to see another, you know, donnybrook like we saw in 2026, 2016, where you have 19 or 20 people running and you're not sure who the, who the pick's going to be?

[Clay Travis]

Well, if this administration continues on the path that it's currently on, I think that it's very likely that de facto the next Republican nominee will be whoever Donald Trump says it should be. Now, does that mean that he relishes that? It's a bit like being on the Apprentice, right? Does that mean that he relishes that position? Or does that mean that he likes to be the elder statesman who gets to preside over whatever that contest looks like, you know, be, be the guy who's more just kind of overseeing it instead of having his guy or his gal? Look, I know it's, it's early for this in a sense, but it's also not that early because in a year, this is already, this is going to be a thing where people are making moves.

[Ryan Seacrest]

This is why after the midterms, this starts.

[Clay Travis]

It's going to start. I mean, this is why having a one term lock in for Trump means that this conversation is going to, we're going to be having election conversations a lot sooner than would be anticipated because when you have a first term president, when he's running again, the assumption is that it's him and everyone knows that. And so you don't have that same jump to position for the primary. And I think this time around there will be, before you know it, it'll be there. And the good news for the Republicans is, I mean, truly a deep bench. And the way I think you can just see that, Clay, is there are a whole bunch of people already around Trump who, if they became the nominee, a lot of MAGA people would say, fantastic, this is, this is carrying on the legacy.

[Ryan Seacrest]

I also think it'll be interesting on the Trump side. We've never seen Trump as a, quote, unquote, lame duck. That's not me taking a shot at Trump. It's obviously what you're called when you can't run for reelection. But the president still would be there for all of 2027 and most, well, all of 2028. And yet he wouldn't be angling for anything politically. So what does Trump truly unbound by any potential to run for any political office going forward actually look like? He grips and rips quite a lot now. Can you imagine what he would be like without having to run for reelection? Yeah.

[Clay Travis]

What are the executive orders look like when Trump's only got 18 months left in office? That's what I want to know. Well, you know, what are those press conferences like when he's got 18 months left? It's, it's already pretty mind blowing. I didn't, I didn't Even know what 11 on the dial would, would be like.

[Ryan Seacrest]

No doubt. Look, Buck and I started Crockett Coffee for a few reasons. One of them was to grow a profitable business that can give back a portion of our profits. Obviously go to tunnel to Tower Second to understand what it's like for Americans today running their own business. Because running a business challenge, inventory management, sales, marketing, fulfillment, customer service, supply chain pricing. The list is endless. The one place it all comes together. NetSuite by Oracle. It's the number one cloud based business management system used by companies doing $2 million or more in annual revenue, many of them growing into hundreds of millions of dollars in annual sales. That's where we want to be, where we're headed. And we'll need the convenience of seeing all our company's data points in one place. One dashboard. That's with NetSuite by Oracle. That's what they can provide business owners and operators today. If you're a business operator or a business owner and you aren't using NetSuite, now's a great time to do so. Find the efficiencies of operating your business. Gain visibility into all you're doing. Do it with NetSuite. Go online today. NetSuite.com Clay you'll get a free CFO's guide to AI and machine learning. It's going to help your business. That's netsuite.com clay fast, easy. It's what's next. Net S U-I-T-E-SUITE.com clay making America great again isn't just one man, it's many. The Team 47 podcast Sundays at noon Eastern in the Clay and Buck podcast feed. Find it on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts. Grand Canyon University, a private Christian university in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona, believes we're endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. GCU believes in equal opportunity and the American dream starts with purpose. GCU equips you to serve others in ways that promote human flourishing and create a ripple effect of transformation for generations to come. By honoring your career calling, you impact your family, your friends and your community. You can change the world for good by putting others before yourself to glorify God. Whether your pursuit involves a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, GCU's online on campus and hybrid learning environments are designed to help you achieve your unique academic, personal and professional goals. With over 340 academic programs as of September 2024, GCU meets you where you are and provides a path to help you fulfill your dreams. The pursuit to serve others is yours. Let it flourish. Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University Private Christian affordable Visit gcu.

[Podcast Host]

Edu Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24. 7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments and shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[Leon Neyfakh]

In the fall of 1986, Ronald Reagan found himself at the center of a massive scandal that looked like it might bring down his presidency.

[Clay Travis]

Did you make a mistake in sending arms to Tehran, sir?

[Ryan Seacrest]

No.

[Leon Neyfakh]

It became known as the Iran Contra affair and I'm not taking any more questions.

[Ryan Seacrest]

In just a second I'm going to ask.

[Leon Neyfakh]

I'm Leon Nayfak, co creator of Slow Burn. In my podcast Iran Contra, you'll hear all the unbelievable details of a scandal that captivated the nation nearly 40 years ago, but which few of us still remember today.

[Clay Travis]

The things that happened were so bizarre and insane I can't begin to tell you. Please do.

[Leon Neyfakh]

To hear the whole story. Listen to Fiasco Iran Contra on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Welcome back in Clay Travis Buck Sexton show we got a couple people who want to weigh in with me as Trump is talking about bringing back Alcatraz as a prison. I was just there a few weeks ago and I stood on the precipice of Alcatraz and I looked out towards San Francisco Bay and I told My son, my 17 year old, I said, I think I could swim this. And he said no dad, you could not. And that if you want to be entertained. A lot of people have been weighing in during the course of today's program about whether or not I can do it. There's a poll up padding in Ohio. You did it. What should I know?

[Nicole Parker]

Okay, so they have a triathlon there and it's called Escape from Alcatraz. And so we have entered it and they boat you out to Alcatraz and then you just jump off the boat when your wave is up and then you swim, I think towards Fort Mason. At that time that I did it, they said it was a mile and a half swim. However, swimming is my best event. So if you are going to do this, I just encourage you to train, do some open water swimming. You can do it in the water.

[Ryan Seacrest]

How old were you when you did it, Patty?

[Nicole Parker]

I was in my 40s.

[Ryan Seacrest]

And was there any people that were trying to do it that needed to be rescued? Did you see anyone have to be. Oh, okay. And what, what was usually the reason that they had to be rescued?

[Nicole Parker]

Well, I don't know exactly by this. He was a football player. I don't want to say his name, but he was a well known football player. And I don't know if he just petered out or just got tired because there are those swells. The swells are large. You go up and then you go down.

[Clay Travis]

Patty, did you ever have a moment where, where you felt like a tug at your foot and you were like, oh, my gosh, it's got me.

[Nicole Parker]

Never. Never. No. I encourage you. Do it, do it. You will, you will love it. You'll be glad you did it. You can do it. You just have to go out there and play.

[Clay Travis]

I, I thought that a shark was attacking me in the pool when something touched my foot.

[Ryan Seacrest]

So, yeah, apparently Patty's tougher than us.

[Clay Travis]

Badass. Yeah.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Steve in Birmingham has been waiting a long time. You got 20 seconds, Steve.

[Clay Travis]

Oh, Clay, Clay, Clay.

[Ryan Seacrest]

You would have to train, brother. I know you're fit, you're not obese and you're not sedentary, but you would have to practice in that wetsuit because.

[Clay Travis]

I tell you exactly how that would go. A lot of pressure over your tip. Heart rate jacked up, your respiratory rate jacks up.

[Ryan Seacrest]

You jump in that cold water.

[Clay Travis]

On top of that, you talk about claustrophobic.

[Podcast Host]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24,7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments and shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[Clay Travis]

When you're a pro.

[Ryan Seacrest]

You got to do a little bit of everything.

[Clay Travis]

A little, a little, and even a little. And it helps to have something that.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Works as hard as you do.

[Clay Travis]

That's why Valspar has durable, high coverage paint for every job, every time made. For more Valspar pros, head to Lowe's.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Today and talk to a pro rep.

[Clay Travis]

About saving time and money on your next job with Valspar. Signature paint exclusions apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

See valsparpro.com for details.

[Leon Neyfakh]

In the fall of 1986, Ronald Reagan found himself at the center of a massive scandal that looked like it might bring down his presidency. It became known as the Iran Contra Affair.

[Clay Travis]

The things that happened were so bizarre and insane, I can't begin to tell you. Please do.

[Leon Neyfakh]

To hear the whole story, listen to Fiasco Iran Contra on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Podcast Host]

You're listening to an iHeart podcast.