Verdict with Ted Cruz: Terror Attack in New Orleans – What We Know So Far
Episode Release Date: January 2, 2025
On this profound and somber episode of "Verdict with Ted Cruz," Senator Ted Cruz and co-host Ben Ferguson delve into the tragic terrorist attacks that unfolded in New Orleans and Las Vegas on New Year's Day. The hosts provide a comprehensive analysis of the events, government responses, and the broader implications for national security.
1. Introduction and Initial Reactions
Ted Cruz opens the episode with a heavy heart, acknowledging the gravity of the situation:
"This is obviously one of those shows that neither of us wanted to do, but it's an important one to get you information about what has happened and this horrific terrorist attack in New Orleans..."
[00:00]
Ben Ferguson provides a detailed overview of the attacks, emphasizing the rapid development of the situation:
"...we're less than 24 hours out from the United States once again seeing a significant terrorist attack on US soil..."
[00:49]
2. Details of the New Orleans Attack
Ben Ferguson breaks down the specifics of the New Orleans attack:
- Perpetrator: Shamsad Din Bahar Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and Texas resident.
- Method: Drove a white pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street.
- Casualties: 15 killed, several dozen injured.
- Weaponry: The truck carried explosive devices, including two pipe bombs concealed within coolers, wired for remote detonation.
- Motive: Reports indicate Jabbar was inspired by ISIS, with an ISIS flag displayed on the vehicle.
He also touches upon a simultaneous incident in Las Vegas involving a Tesla Cybertruck:
- Incident: Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump Hotel.
- Casualties: 1 killed (the driver), several injured.
- Connection: Both vehicles were rented via the Turo app, though no confirmed link between the two attacks.
3. Government Response and Border Security
Ted Cruz criticizes the current administration's border policies, linking them to the security lapse:
"...wide open southern border...law enforcement is stretched extremely thin..."
[03:22]
Ben Ferguson echoes these sentiments, highlighting the administration's failure to secure the border despite known threats:
"...Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and the Democrats refused to secure the border...every day that border is open, Americans are at greater risk..."
[08:49]
4. Criticism of Law Enforcement and FBI
The hosts express frustration with the FBI's initial classification of the attacks: Ben Ferguson notes the conflicting statements from authorities:
"The FBI right after this happened in New Orleans, they went out and publicly said this was not a terrorist attack. The New Orleans police disagreed..."
[10:11]
Ted Cruz emphasizes the inconsistency and perceived incompetency:
"...this is not a terrorist attack, not being treated like a terrorist. And people are like, what's wrong with you?"
[13:04]
Ben Ferguson further critiques the FBI's focus on political agendas over core security missions:
"...the FBI, focused on political and partisan agendas instead of focusing on the bad guys..."
[21:26]
5. Statements from Local Officials
The episode features excerpts from official statements:
-
New Orleans Police Chief Kirkpatrick attempts to downplay the terrorist classification:
"This is not a terrorist event. What it is right now is their improvised explosive devices that was found..."
[11:55] -
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labels the event a terrorist attack despite conflicting views:
"...we had this tragic event and we're sorry again to everyone in our community..."
[12:33] -
Senator John Kennedy calls for decisive action and transparency:
"There’s a lot of information out there...we need to find out what happened here, and it’s not going to be covered up..."
[16:01]
6. Presidential Response and Leadership Critique
Joe Biden's Address: The hosts play a segment of President Biden's address from Camp David, outlining the ongoing investigations and condemning the attacks:
"...I directed my Attorney General, the FBI Director, the Secretary of Homeland Security...to work on this intensively until we have a full and complete information..."
[22:55]
Ted Cruz offers a critical take on Biden's leadership quality, highlighting concerns about cognitive decline and effectiveness:
"...there's part of me when he got lost and said, excuse me, while reading that teleprompter..."
[25:02]
7. Future Implications and Solutions
Ben Ferguson discusses the need for a proactive FBI and enhanced border security to prevent future attacks:
"...we need a proactive FBI. We need law enforcement that is focusing on the bad guys and not on every political agenda..."
[21:26]
He stresses the importance of learning from this tragedy to safeguard future events, especially with the upcoming inauguration:
"...keeping people safe...preventing another terrorist attack...stay vigilant, stay safe..."
[20:07]
8. Conclusion and Call for Vigilance
Both hosts extend their sympathies and call for national vigilance: Ted Cruz concludes with a heartfelt message:
"...Our thoughts and prayers are with all those in the hospital... Our prayers are with all of the victims who were injured..."
[27:10]
Ben Ferguson reiterates support for the victims’ families and emphasizes the need for continued safety measures:
"...our prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who were murdered earlier today..."
[27:38]
Key Takeaways
- Incident Details: Two simultaneous attacks occurred on New Year's Day in New Orleans and Las Vegas, resulting in multiple casualties.
- Perpetrator Background: The New Orleans attacker was a U.S. citizen and army veteran with alleged ISIS affiliations.
- Border Security Concerns: The hosts argue that lax border policies have heightened the risk of such attacks.
- Law Enforcement Critique: There is significant dissatisfaction with the FBI's handling and classification of the attacks.
- Political Leadership: The current administration is criticized for inadequate response and perceived incompetency.
- Call to Action: Emphasis on enhancing border security, refocusing law enforcement priorities, and ensuring transparency in investigations.
Final Note: This episode underscores the urgent need for robust national security measures and a unified approach to preventing future terrorist activities. The hosts advocate for immediate policy reforms and greater accountability within governmental agencies to protect American lives effectively.