Verdict with Ted Cruz – April 14, 2025

Episode: UFC w POTUS, Big Tech Exemption from Tariffs & Trump Victory Deporting Anti-Israel Radical
Host: Senator Ted Cruz
Co-Host: Ben Ferguson
Sponsor: Jobs, Freedom, and Security PAC

1. Introduction and UFC Experience with President Trump

[02:32]
Senator Ted Cruz opens the episode by greeting listeners and introducing the co-host, Ben Ferguson. Ben recounts an eventful weekend spent with President Donald Trump on Air Force One, attending a UFC fight in Miami.

Notable Quote:
Ben Ferguson [02:46]: "I had a fantastic weekend. I spent much of Saturday evening with President Trump on Air Force One, went to the UFC fight, which was incredible."

Ben describes the high energy at the UFC fight, the enthusiastic reception President Trump received, and the camaraderie among the attendees, including notable figures like Elon Musk, Marco Rubio, and Tulsi Gabbard.

[06:27]
Ted Cruz expresses his admiration for the UFC fight atmosphere and President Trump's ability to engage and energize the crowd, likening Trump's entrance to "a prize fighter walking in for a match."

Notable Quote:
Ted Cruz [08:14]: "It's one of the best things about Donald Trump, he walks in like he's a prize fighter walking in for a match, and that's how he's treated."

Ben emphasizes the effectiveness and charisma of President Trump, noting the strong support from the audience and the impressive display of daily stamina from both the President and his young granddaughter, Kai.

2. Tariffs and Trade Policy Discussions

[15:13]
The conversation shifts to the dominant issue of tariffs affecting the U.S. economy. Ben discusses ongoing negotiations aimed at lowering tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and highlights the involvement of over 130 countries eager to reach trade agreements.

Notable Quote:
Ben Ferguson [17:41]: "130 countries are at 10% now, and they're saying they're coming in and they want a deal done quickly."

Ben critiques the administration's approach to sectoral exemptions, particularly favoring big tech companies like Apple, while small businesses face significant tariff burdens. He advocates for exemptions that prioritize small businesses to prevent their demise due to high import dependencies.

[20:00]
Ted Cruz and Ben delve deeper into the complexities of the tariff negotiations, referencing Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's recent statements about semiconductor and pharmaceutical tariffs being exempt from reciprocal tariffs temporarily.

Notable Quote:
Ted Cruz [26:45]: "Defining how we're dealing with these exemptions is critical because it affects both big tech and small businesses differently."

Ben argues that the administration's rapid policy changes create uncertainty for businesses, hindering their ability to make long-term investment decisions. He underscores the need for predictability and criticizes the preferential treatment of large corporations over smaller enterprises.

3. Deportation of Mahmoud Khalil – A Victory for the Administration

[35:26]
The discussion pivots to immigration policy, specifically the deportation case of Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-Israel protester from Columbia University. Ben asserts that this ruling is a significant victory for the Trump administration in combating anti-American and anti-Israel sentiments on campuses.

Notable Quote:
Ben Ferguson [36:22]: "Khalil misrepresented himself on his green card application, making him inadmissible and rightful grounds for deportation."

Ben details Khalil's fraudulent activities, including his undisclosed employment with the Syrian office of the British Embassy and involvement with UNRWA, an organization linked to Hamas. He criticizes previous administrations for failing to act against such radicals and praises the current administration's decisive actions.

[41:12]
Ted Cruz emphasizes the importance of this ruling, highlighting its alignment with immigration laws and the broader strategy to protect American values and security.

Notable Quote:
Ted Cruz [42:33]: "Any anti-American radicals who've come in on student visas are not welcome in America. If you're going to attack America, get the hell out."

Ben reiterates that while this particular ruling does not set a nationwide precedent, it exemplifies the administration's commitment to enforcing immigration laws against those who threaten national security.

4. Closing Remarks

[42:33]
Senator Ted Cruz wraps up the episode by reminding listeners of the podcast's schedule and encouraging them to subscribe and share the podcast to expand its reach.

[42:54]
Ted Cruz signs off, reinforcing the podcast's mission to provide insightful analysis on current political issues from a conservative perspective.

Conclusion

In this episode of "Verdict with Ted Cruz," the hosts delve into significant political and economic issues, including President Trump's vibrant presence at a UFC fight, the intricate negotiations surrounding tariffs with numerous countries, and a landmark deportation case targeting anti-Israel radicals. Through engaging discussions and insightful analysis, Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson highlight the administration's efforts to implement pro-American policies, support small businesses, and uphold national security. Notable quotes throughout the episode underscore the hosts' perspectives and provide listeners with a clear understanding of the issues at hand.

Note: All timestamps refer to the main content of the podcast, excluding advertisements and non-content segments.