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Jenna Ellis: I love talking about the things of God because of truth and the biblical worldview, the U.S. constitution obligates our government to preserve and protect the rights that our founders recognize come from God, our creator, not our government. I believe that scripture in the Bible is very clear that God is the one that raised up each of you. And God has allowed us to be brought here to this specific moment in time.
Scott Uehlinger: This is Jenna Ellis in the Morning.
US military campaign against Venezuela culminated with the capture of President Nicholas Maduro
Jenna Ellis: Good morning. It is Tuesday, January 6th. 6th. And we need to talk about Venezuela. And so, that operation Timeline, which was a US military campaign titled Operation Absolute Resolve, culminated January 3rd with the capture of President Nicholas Maduro following months of escalating tensions, some designation of gangs as terrorists, the narco terrorism, campaigns by the Department of War, covert intel, and several of those fatal strikes on alleged drug boats. And now the question, of course becomes first and foremost, will Maduro actually face justice? He pled, not guilty in a NewSong York court yesterday amid some, political, mumblings to the judge who rightly cut him off and said, this is not the time to protest your arrest. I just need a, a plea. And the question, of course, for for Americans is what exactly happened with Venezuela and was the purpose to oust the regime? Was the purpose more for m. Oil. There are talks of whether, all of that, oil that Venezuela holds, that now maybe, eventually in American possession could even pay off the national debt. those are some of the rumors and regime change and all of this. But how does this fit into kind of the greater scheme of President Trump's foreign policy? Well, let's welcome in Scott Ulinger, who is a retired CIA officer for more.
Scott Uehlinger : Trump addressing five problems by taking action on Venezuela oil
So, Scott, let's kind of break this Down. Where do you want to start?
Scott Uehlinger: Sure. Good morning, Jenna. well, this is obviously, this is a major event, and in fact, in Latin America, it's looked upon as, this is the equivalent of the fall of the Berlin Wall. So don't underestimate how huge this is, as Trump would say. But, the thing to take away from this is that.
Scott Uehlinger: Right?
Scott Uehlinger: The thing to take away from this is that, is that, so to speak, as the military would say, Venezuela is the belly button of a lot of the problems that face America. and so he's basically, he's addressing like five problems at once by doing what he did. And timing is everything. regarding the oil,
Scott Uehlinger: Well,
Scott Uehlinger: Regarding the oil, the, Venezuelan government confiscated us, technology and oil holdings, in the year 2000, and the United States didn't do anything about it. And it's to the tune of billions of dollars. It's like $20 billion. International Court of Settlements, stated that, ConocoPhillips was ripped off to the tune of billions of dollars and Venezuela had to make restitution. Well, that was 20 years ago. So, certainly US business has a lot of, material and I, guess land leases coming back to them. But more important than, and now the United States will have the ability to, basically decide who gets the oil. Now, Trump already has said that he will not halt shipping of, Venezuelan oil to China because China is, quite dependent on it. Like, 80% of Venezuelan oil went to China. he's basically silently telling China, okay, look, I'll let you have the oil until you start making trouble, then you're not getting the oil. And this is very, very important because basically you're not going to see an invasion of Taiwan if China doesn't have access to the oil. So Trump may very well have postponed or stopped a future war with China invading Taiwan, because more important than us having oil, he's making sure that China maybe doesn't have the oil. So right there, that's. That is extremely important in and of itself.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, it really is.
Even Russia, Iran or Cuba have ties to the Maduro government
And I think, with the focus being so much on Venezuela, who's going to come, ah, in and be the next president, and how that regime change, will happen. And some of those questions, it's really been a narrow focus in the media, just on Venezuela, not so much, the ripple effect of this operation and US Relations with China, as you mentioned, and even Russia, Iran or Cuba, I mean, all of them as well, have ties to the Maduro government. So how does, this affect even broader than China?
Scott Uehlinger: Right.
Scott Uehlinger: Because basically under Maduro, the place was a criminal command center for corruption, for noco, terrorism, for foreign intel operations, everything. And now that has been removed. Cuba, obviously, is very important. An enemy of the United States since 1962, before I was even born. and now, because they are dependent totally on Venezuelan oil, to keep the communist illusion going for the last 25 years, they could collapse almost under their own weight in less than a year. Now, if Trump pushes them, it will happen even faster. Or, Rubio, who is a Cuban American, by the way. so Cuba is obviously extremely important, and Iran is also very important. So now possibly China is looking at a one, two punch with Venezuela, eliminated as an oil source. Definitely. And, potentially Iran, with the demonstrations that are currently going on in Iran. Russia is also there too. So basically, it's like if you went to a bar in Caracas, it would be like going to the Star wars bar. You'd have Chinese advisors, you'd have Russian military advisors, you'd have Iranians running around, you'd have members of Hezbollah running around. Another thing that used to happen, and this is very significant from an intel viewpoint, is there were Iranian terrorists, Hezbollah, et cetera, going to Venezuela, and they were being issued Venezuelan passports, genuine, Venezuelan passports by their government. So these operatives could be throughout the United States, thanks to, Uncle Joe, letting people in, in the last several years. So all of these things are devastating. But another thing that is very important and, I think, refers to the timing of this incident, is Venezuela's involvement with the smartmatic voting system. Venezuelan, it was Venezuela, along with other people, that created the voting system that enabled, Maduro to steal the elections two years ago, even though he only had 25% of the vote. Smartmatic was bought by another company which ran the US election software. Now, this is coming out, but it's coming out slower than the other things I've described. And so why is this important? This is highly important. Oh, by the way, and yesterday on Truth Social and stuff, Trump was tweeting, putting out all kinds of things about the 2020 election fraud because Maduro is, likely to, when he's in his trial, to describe his. The corruption that is present in the United States, how many senators have been getting payoffs from Venezuela, how many Iranian terrorists have been let in, and how the smartmatic voting system was incorporated into the United States. This is very important in Trump's buildup and to making major moves in 2026 against the deep state.
Jenna Ellis: Wow. And do you think that, the process that. I recognize, you know, that. And we have another lawyer, you know, coming on after this, that may be able to answer this question better. But just in terms of the process and how long this takes, I mean, if we're looking at getting some of those answers from Maduro, before the 2026 election, I mean, is there, is there time, to do that, or do you think this is more looking forward to 2028?
Scott Uehlinger: I think that there is time to do this. I certainly think that it is. And the lawyer can answer that better from a legal point. But, I think that this is all. It is certainly part of Trump's strategy to do this before the midterms, to get this done. And so, I think that that is part of it. Somebody even said yesterday, and it made a great deal of sense that a lot, a lot of the takedowns of gang members and stuff like that within the country, in the United States were actually, were actually terrorist cells that have now been eliminated because they knew they were going to be going into Venezuela and they wanted to avoid any kind of retaliation within the United States. So that is certainly possible. And as an intel officer, I keep an open mind. But basically, I, think Trump has, by doing this, Trump has thrown a lot of the bad people in the world into chaos. The Chinese are enraged by this stuff. And, you know, I mean, I love seeing Chinese Communists rolling on the carpet, pulling their hair out, and I'm sure you do, too. So, this is fantastic stuff. And it's hard to believe that we're the same country that just had a humiliating withdrawal from Afghanistan only two years ago. And so the United States is right.
Jenna Ellis: What a difference. The president.
Scott Uehlinger: Now that we're back, and now that we're back, this makes the possibility of war anywhere in the world, certainly directed against the United States, much less likely, because we have done things that no other world power can even think about doing. Chinese and Russian radars and missiles were proven to be absolutely useless in Caracas. and Russia and China have shown themselves be the worst allies possible. They do nothing to help people. And you don't think that's a message that resounds, in the presidencies of hundreds of countries around the world, that the Russians and, Chinese talk a big game, but they do nothing when the United States is involved. So either you ally yourself with the United States, or you're looking at some hard Times in your future.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And, you know, it's so fascinating how just this one action and kind of tip of the spear and obviously, you know, there were actions that led up to this, then have so many different ripple effects, between you know, our relations with other nations, other things going on in the United States. I see this as a large part of President Trump's, goal as well in the Trump mandate of his, election in 2024, to. To do kind of the mass deportations. You know, speaking of trend, getting a lot of these Venezuelans that came in, perhaps under some kind of amnesty or refugee status, to actually go back home and have some of those deportations. And yet, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was on, the news, I think it was Fox, ah, yesterday, saying that, that some of these Venezuelans could reapply for status. And it didn't seem like she was that eager to make the point that a lot of these people, should be going back home, especially now that the refugee status is not really in effect based on Maduro.
Scott Uehlinger: Right.
Scott Uehlinger: And so. But that is something that will happen. See. So there's another genius stroke is that this will encourage. There will be certainly, some Venezuelans who will definitely go home, as there are Cuban Americans who will be going if Cuba, winds up falling apart this year, which I think is quite possible. So, basically Trump is trying to set up a much more stable South America and by doing so he's going to. That reduces the pressure for immigration into the United States, rather than just close the border. He also reduced the desire of people to want to go to the United States because you're improving their countries. And so by, right now President Trump is working with the present vice President of Venezuela. Now we'll see where that goes. But he is also smart enough to understand that the de baathification of Iraq was a disaster. You can't just send every bureaucrat home and every soldier home and expect the country to continue. Iraq collapsed because of that. And so right now he is working with members of the Maduro regime who quite understand that if they don't toe the line, they're probably going to be going to prison or worse. So they have a real incentive to do what they're told and stabilize the country and set it up for future elections so that when the elections come, the transition will be very natural and will not have any of the chaos that was a feature of the invasion of Iraq.
Jenna Ellis: Wow. So much more we could go into, We've got to take a break here. Scott Ewlinger, I always so appreciate your analysis and your perspective because I think a lot of this, really isn't analysis that you're hearing on mainstream. Certainly, of course, from, some of the leftist media outlets who are just, you know, screaming over, you know, the U.S. constitution and not really understanding exactly what's going on here. But we're going to get into all of that and also, the trial that's coming up for Maduro when we, come right back here on Jenna Ellis in the morning.
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Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro arraigned in New York on drug charges
Jenna Ellis: Welcome back. Well, as we've been talking about, Maduro has pled not not guilty in a NewSong York federal court, claiming he's a quote, unquote decent man. Not, sure he understands what decency means in America, you know, since he wasn't even speaking English. But Fox News reports that Maduro, the dethroned Venezuelan dictator indicted on major drug trafficking and weapons charges in the United States, arrived in a federal court in NewSong York at noon Monday for his arraignment days after American forces captured him in his own presidential palace. As U.S. marshals escorted him into the courtroom, he greeted members of the press and the public in the gallery by saying happy NewSong Year in Spanish. Minutes into the proceeding, the judge Cut him off when he claimed he had been kidnapped. the judge had asked him to confirm his full name. He replied, I am Nicholas Maduro, Moros, through a translator. And he said, president of Venezuela. I am here, kidnapped, and I am here since January 3rd. Third Saturday, I was captured at my home in Caracas, Venezuela. The judge then cut him off, said the hearing was not the proper time for Maduro to protest his arrest. And moments later, the judge asked him to enter a guilt, a plea. And he said, I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a decent man. I am still the president of my country. but that indictment has been pending, since the first Trump administration. And then U.S. attorney General, Bill Barr had some commentary on that indictment that he oversaw at the Trump DOJ on Fox News Sunday. Here's what he had to say. I have a high degree of confidence he'll ultimately be convicted. And all the legal arguments that have been raised really were raised during the prosecution of Noriega, which was a very parallel situation. I think he will be convicted, and I think he's looking at, at sentences similar to, if not bigger than, Noriega sentence. He's, He's. He's committed far more crimes, in my mind, than Noriega did.
Gerard Felitti: The initial indictment is very strong
Jenna Ellis: All right, well, let's welcome in Gerard Felitti, who is a senior counsel at the Lawfare Project. And, Gerard. So, you know, this is in NewSong York, and, so there is some speculation online already that not all charges, will be a guilty verdict just, just because of the demographic there. Governor Ron DeSantis of my home state of Florida has indicated there may be charges forthcoming for Maduro in Miami, which I think is very fascinating. But what's your, perspective overall on at least the initial indictment?
Gerard Filitti: I think the initial indictment is very strong, and it lays out a very good case against Maduro as the head of a drug cartel rather than the elected president of a country which, he is not. The United States and the European Union and many countries don't recognize as leadership is legitimate. The indictment is very thorough and comprehensive in laying out the activities that justify a conviction. so I think that as it stands right now, he has, a hard task to basically counter the government's evidence that will be put forth during trial to disprove the case that the government is alleging.
Jenna Ellis: And, do you know why this was brought specifically in a NewSong York federal court?
Gerard Filitti: Well, I think the main reason you bring it into NewSong York federal court is two reasons. One is that it is a place that has jurisdiction. A lot of the financial transactions that are US Dollar denominated go through banks in NewSong York and that gives the SDNY jurisdiction. But the other reason is also that NewSong York does have very good judges in the Southern District and Eastern District who have dealt with high profile cases, international cases, cases of international.
Gerard Filitti: Law as well that come up.
Gerard Filitti: so you have a confluence of there is proper jurisdiction, but you also have really good judges.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And hopefully that's the case of, you know, really good judges to make sure that the process is, goes the way that it should. And the. Our prior guest, in the first segment who is a former CIA intelligence officer, was suggesting that the timeline of this could end up having the DOJ end up with some statements from Maduro, on some of his alleged crimes even before the 2026 election. And President Trump may be looking to that, to perhaps you know, have some kind of election integrity measures, you know, and some other things. Overall, with some of what of information Maduro may provide in your mind, do you think that that is too quick of a timeline or how should we anticipate this process to unfold?
Gerard Filitti: Well, I think that in the Southern District, ironically, criminal cases do tend to move fairly quickly. I think that we are likely to see this progress into the discovery phase by summer, and we might even get to trial this year at the end of this year. Now that that doesn't take into account appeals and other issues that will come along the way. I know that Maduro's team is anticipating making motions to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction, claiming that he has sovereign immunity as the leader of a, of a country, and that he was for to be abducted. I don't think those motions will go anywhere, but they need time to play out. I do think that we will be at at a point where we will have a verdict likely by the election in 2026.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. Wow. that would be incredible. And what would a guilty verdict, imply, at least in terms of the presidency of Venezuela and how that regime change, is likely to occur? I mean, is that a totally separate question? And you know, regardless of what happens with the trial that's going to proceed or how do those things work in tandem?
Gerard Filitti: well, I think you've got two different factors. You've got the legal and you've got the political. The legal. You can even break that down more into the criminal proceeding against Maduro himself. You will see noises in the international community alleging that the US Violated international law. So that's a, a separate legal issue. You may see Congress raise questions about whether the President needs congressional approval for future act or further action in, in Venezuela. So that's a third legal issue that will come up. But ultimately what happens in Venezuela is a political issue. I think that we've seen wide scale non recognition of Maduro as legitimate. And now the question is, how will things unfold in Venezuela? Will this interim regime move towards democracy, move towards holding free election? Do we need to put more pressure, economic or military on Venezuela? or, will things move forward on their own?
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, I mean, so many questions. I'm speaking with Jared, Felitti, who is senior counsel at the Lawfare Project.
Democrats have objected to President Trump using war power without congressional approval
And, speaking of the, questions from Congress, I mean, obviously a lot of the objections to this whole operation from the Democrats have centered around unconstitutional use, of, war power without congressional approval. And yet, one of the best arguments I've seen has been, you know, Democrats can't have selective enforcement when over the past, you know, 80 to 100 years, presidents have acted in this type of manner without, congressional approval. And so for the Democrats to come in and say, well, it's only Trump that needs to behave differently, is, is of course ridiculous. But, what are the constitutional arguments, in your view, that are pertinent to this situation? And, did Trump act, with authorization? constitutionally?
Gerard Filitti: I think you're absolutely right that the Democrats are looking at this very selectively, that there is a history and precedent of presidents on both sides of the aisle using their Article 2 powers to defend the United States and preemptively launch attacks against foreign nations or terrorist groups. We've seen this against ISIS in Syria. This was done by President and Obama as well. Recently we've seen this use of force in Yemen and other countries as well. So this is something that is precedential for the presidency, to do, if you will. Now, the issue under the war powers is you need to notify Congress. You don't need their permission. Once you notify them, that starts a clock on whether or not Congress authorizes further use of force or you have to withdraw forces. So that's really the issue here is congressional authority for anything further that happens. The bigger issue, to be honest, is President Trump saying that he, that the United States will run Venezuela. if he literally means that there will be US Boots on the ground or the US Will take administrative control, then you do need congressional approval, you need oversight, you need funding, you need to exercise that War Powers act, if he means something less than that, then it's more of a gray area and he probably doesn't need authorization for Congress for the action that he already carried out.
Gerard Filitti: Out.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And, well, you know, knowing Trump as, as we do over the last 10 years, we're not really sure what he means by that. And I think time will tell, of course, but this also to the, to the political part of this, Gerard, this is why it, it becomes so imperative, to, for the Republicans to maintain and hopefully expand their majorities in the House and the Senate in 2026. Because, if Trump does need congressional approval, then, of course, if the Democrats came in power, they would love nothing other than to obstruct and possibly, even, look at impeachment over, you know, who knows what. But obviously, look at Trump as a target and at minimum, obstruct any sort of endeavors he would take in Venezuela. And I think, I mean, really, anything else.
Gerard Filitti: Well, that's right. And you also have people in the Republican Party, Massey mtg, Who, Najee Taylor Green, while she's still there, who are opposed to, who, have made it clear that they would.
Jenna Ellis: And we lost Gerard. but we were going to have to take a break right after that comment anyway, so we'll just go ahead and head to the break. but I think that his point is very well taken that, you know, even some Republicans, are opposed to Trump's agenda. And so, with such a narrow majority in the House and, the Senate, then, Republicans really don't have any wiggle room here. And so I think this is definitely going to be a huge focus of at least the Trump campaign heading into the midterms. Whether or not the GOP overall gets on board with that, whether they're more eyeing 2028 and wanting to kind of get rid of the, you know, MAGA rule versus bringing in someone else from the establishment. I mean, so many different factors are coming into play. It's going to be really fascinating to see how this all shakes out. And really what we should be putting, praying for as Christian conservatives is to make sure that we elect the best possible representatives that will actually do the job that the American people want. We'll be right back. welcome back to Jenna Ellis in the Morning on American Family Radio.
Tim Walls drops reelection bid amid scrutiny over alleged Minnesota welfare fraud
Jenna Ellis: Welcome back. Well, there is a massive fraud situation going on in Minnesota, and Governor Tim Walls says, on second thought, maybe I won't run for reelection. in my personal opinion, I don't think that's good enough. I think he needs to resign. And that may be forthcoming depending on what else happens in the coming weeks and months with this whole fraud investigation. The DOJ has now formally opened an investigation into the fraud. And so this coming from Daybreak insider from Salem News. the exposure of the fraud in the Somali immigrant community in the Twin Cities has made it clear the embattled Democrats, speaking of Governor Tim Walz could not win again and the scandal is not going away anytime soon. The Financial Times reports Tim Walls has dropped his bid for reelection as Minnesota governor amid mounting pressure over allegations of sprawling state welfare fraud. After rising to national prominence as Kamala Harris's running mate in 2024, the former Democrat Congress member said in a surprise announcement Monday, well surprise is probably in quotes there but surprise announcement on Monday he would abandon his effort to seek a third term as governor following national scrutiny of the alleged scandal in Minnesota safety net programs. And ah, President Trump said Minnesota's corrupt governor will possibly leave office before his term is up, up but in any event will not be running again because he was caught red handed in all caps along with Ilhan Omar and other of his Somali friends stealing tens of billions of taxpayer dollars. That was posted on Truth Social. And a commentator Alex Berenson said Walls reckoning feels like the beginning, not the end of a trend. And I think Berenson's comment is absolutely right because we don't know at this point point how far this extends into the overall DNC and Democrat overall funding machine. And it's really fascinating to me and I think the question, one of many pertinent questions is going to become was Tim Walls selected to be Kamala Harris's running mate because of so much of, of this funding going into so many layers of the DNC apparatus And so how far this extends upward and outward I think should make Democrats very nervous. They're already seeking to kind of deflect the, the whole narrative onto you know, other kind of frivolous applications against Republicans, like Representative Mike Collins suggesting that a paid intern somehow didn't actually do any work. And it's like oh wow, you know that's a real big scandal compared to all of the fraud that's being alleged. But the, the point that we also need to be paying attention to is not just how much of this fraud is now being alleged and where the DOJ investigation goes, but the fact that this wouldn't have even come to light without an independent journalist actually just going on the ground to the Somali daycare centers, asking questions and kind of blowing this wide open. It begs the question, where was the rest of the mainstream media? Where have has all of this been? I mean, we could have found this out during the 2024 presidential election when Tim Walls was the Democrat nominee. I mean, imagine the scandal that it would have been then. And then the next question is, are Republican going to actually force any accountability? Because accountability should not be partisan. Accountability should be part of the fabric of America to ensure that this kind of corruption never, ever occurs. So let's welcome in Ryan Helfenbein, who is the Vice President of Communications at Liberty University. Ryan, your thoughts on all of this.
Jenna: There is corruption in Minnesota going all the way to the governor
Ryan Helfenbein: Wow. So Jenna, I mean, you know, it's amazing. News never sleeps. And here we went through the Christmas break and, we were shocked, shocked, but not really shocked or surprised to find out that there is corruption in one of the bluest states, in the country. And it's a total failure, it's a failure going all the way to the governor's office. It's a failure at the state level, it's a failure at the local level. Mass, corruption, billions of dollars that were fraudulently, stolen, from taxpayers, going towards resettlement, refugee programs, all kinds of things where people were using those benefits, to operate daycare centers, food pantries that were non existent. you also look at the fact that Walz's own policy when it comes to climate change, when it comes to the lgbtq, cartel, trying to make it a safe harbor state for those who want to get a sex change operation, under the age of 18, they could have a court appointed, custodian, to take care of kids and essentially, trans a child, from being a boy to being a girl. this was all happening in Minnesota. This was all happening under Tim Walz's watch. And as I was hearing you, just before coming on, I couldn't agree more than in the 2024 election cycle, much of this was exposed. if you went on social media, if you were listening to the talking points of conservative pundits, you heard a lot about this. But in the mainstream, the legacy media, you heard nothing, absolutely crickets about this. Walls, was supposed to be the balance to the extremism of Kamala Harris. Walls was supposed to be the one that was going to be reaching in the Rust Belt towards men, you, know, masculinity, and to be some kind of balance. but he's extreme. He's even more extreme than Kamala is. And that's a surprise. That's kind of a shock, unless we forget, it was, you know, St. Paul, Minneapolis, where essentially the Floyd riot started. So they were the hotbed. And this is in a very, very blue state with very progressive policies, cashless bail, all kinds of things, that, that are soft on crime policies. And yet that was the place where BLM started. That was the place where cities started to burn back in 2020 during COVID That was all under Tim Law Walls Watch. sadly, and I agree with you, we need accountability. It's great to expose these things, but people need to go to jail. And, so we'll see if Republicans, have the will, if Republicans have the nerve, ah, to prosecute these cases.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And wow, that's a really important, important, kind of flashback to the history of this. Not just looking at kind of this moment in time, but, you know, going all the way back to, to 2020 and even, you know, further on than that to see how all, all of these headlines kind of play into each other. but Ryan, you know, why do you think it is that the mainstream media, at least on the more conservative side, wasn't really covering this during the 2024 election? Because. Because it seems like that would have been a lot more helpful to President Trump. And you would think that investigative journalists, other than, you know, kind of just the independents, would have been more interested in this story during the 2024 cycle, I think.
Ryan Helfenbein: And this is, this is going back 2024, even 2020, and before that. I think that much has changed in how legacy news, news reports media, and even with many, of these conservative websites, you know, they will put out opinion articles. a lot of those are curated in such a way. The content is curated in such a way that it is surface level information. It is the kind of information that is shared among, left wing news, right wing news. But very few people do classic journalism anymore. Very few people actually do investigatory reporting. They don't get to, you know, the local level. They don't put boots on the ground. They're not interviewing, local, citizens. They're not finding out or digging for information. So a lot of times what you see is a cursory glance, a cursory look at what's happening, at the national level. And most people are sharing the same talking points. And so this was kind of a rare look, and I'm hoping to see more of this. This, I think it's not just happening in blue states. sadly, it's also happening in red states. there's information even coming out of Texas, that there is fraud being committed, H1B visas, as well as Indian owned gas stations, that there are all kinds of programs that are being utilized, tax benefits and whatnot, that are being utilized to start up businesses and you have a leg up. if you are a foreign national who has received, a visa and you're immigrating to the United States, you have a leg up versus naturalized citizens. They don't have the same benefits, they can't draw from the same pool. Much of this will be exposed, I think, moving forward. Because, Jenna, we have eyes wide open now. And it's not just in blue states, it's happening in red states as well. But to your point, I think it's because classic journalism is dead. people are, you know, a lot of times people are sitting in their chair somewhere connected to the Internet and they're just scouring headlines at a surface level. Very few people are actually getting into, where the real news is being created or made. And they're not asking difficult questions. They're not interviewing people on the ground.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, and that's such a great point because, so much of the curated content that everybody is talking about, comes from a couple of sets of, you know, legacy media and their headlines that they choose to put out. And so that's why we need a lot of these, independent investigators. And this is why the proliferation of online social media, for all of its other drawbacks, one of the best benefits is so that these types of things can go viral and and, and actually change the news cycle and sort of force the legacy media to actually pay attention to what they should be instead of, just being able to curate that content and say, you know, these are the only set of items that, you know, everybody can talk about. But also to your point, Ryan Helfenbein, you know, there is so much fraud going on in so many different levels of, government benefits. You know, you mentioned a few. I just got another headline this morning that a former Georgia state rep is, was indicted yesterday on one count of making a false statement in connection with an application for federal unemployment benefits. During COVID 19. We've seen so many, instances of, you know, fraudulent SBA loans. You know, all of this then just feeds back into the point. Point of what, you know, Gen Z. And I think some of the young people are frustrated about with how much they're paying in taxes, can't get ahead and then yet they see, you know, all of this fraud occurring. And if our government does nothing about it, if Republicans, while they are in control, don't actually force accountability, that is a huge signal to the younger generation. We don't care about ensuring that you are put on the best path toward fulfilling your American dream. We'd rather just basically steal it from you and hand it to someone else. And I think that is a huge issue that is on the line for 2026 and also 2028.
Ryan King says corruption engenders Robin Hood mentality among young people
Ryan Helfenbein: You, I think you point to the most important thing that corruption, ultimately engenders in the next generation. And that is, you know, this Robin Hood mentality. I forget the name, but the guy that is on trial for murder in the state of NewSong York, NewSong York City, who murdered the head of an insurance company, you know, that is a perfect example. Many people on social media sympathizes with him. young people across the nation are looking to our institutions and they're saying, hey, they're so utterly corrupt, I'm paying exorbitant taxes anyway. And by the way, a lot of this is socialist style redistribution. on these smaller things, why not do it on a grander scale? I want the government to solve my affordability crisis. I want rent controls where I live, not just in NewSong York City but elsewhere. And this is a huge problem. This is a problem with the Gen Z generation. And when honor is missing, I'm reminded of the C.S. lewis quote, you know, about geldings that don't produce hollow chested men, men without honor, men without loyalty. we've robbed that next generation with a sense of duty, with pride and with expectation. A lot of them are looking to these institutions, legacy institutions that are federal government, state governments, and they're saying, wow, why not me? If these guys can get all of these goodies and these freebies, why not me? We're going to have a huge problem on our hands when it comes to socialism. And we could lose this argument with the next generation. Not that socialism works, we know it fails. But when they see so much corruption with the existing system, that becomes the water in the dam that ultimately breaks. And that's what we need to be concerned about and why I think it is so important that these cases be prosecuted, that they be tried, that people are brought to justice and people are put in jail. Because just like we treated the Venezuela dictator, just a couple of days ago. If we allow for these things to happen, it sees more destruction, more chaos down the road and we could lose the very country that we're trying to preserve and keep.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, and that's a really fascinating point Ryan that you know when young people see this type of corruption the tendency is well if they're getting free handouts why not me as well? What are you doing for me? And we're seeing a, some rise of a kind of demand for a little more of the, the socialist kind of economic model. Thankfully there's a huge segment on the right that you know saying no to that and that's a very good thing. But why do you think it is that the demand when there's fraud like that and, and young people see that, that why is the reaction well you know, give me the benefit too instead of stop the fraud. Let me keep more of my hard earned money and make them go work as hard as I'm having to work.
Ryan Helfenbein: You know it's interesting, I do think this is if you can't beat them, join them. But I, you know there's an aspect of that but I do, I will say this and this is why it's so important. Faith is an element here and I think as you have, you know again we have pockets of revival, we have signs that our nation is coming back. when it comes to religiosity, when it comes to the non affiliated and those who didn't grow up in church, I think it's something like 34% of Gen Z have not attended a church service anywhere at any time in their life. They are the most non religious generation and yet we're seeing through pew research, through Bible sales, through you know a number of outlets that have been reporting on this that faith is making a comeback. That's wonderful but for the, but still by every measure the Gen Z generation is the most non religious. That leads to a kind of nihilistic worldview. A ah, worldview without God, without a sense of ultimate justice, without a sense of ultimate right and wrong. Black and white, stark differences, contrasts. when you live in the green, when you live in the societal expectation that there is no ultimate right or wrong, there is no God to be accountable to. people just treat the world like it's a mass Grand Theft Auto kind of game. and at the end of the day they just do whatever pleases them. This kind of reminds me of judges. There is no king in Israel. Everyone does what is right in their own eyes. You've written tons on, on constitutional theory and history, Jenna. We, know that self governance ultimately begins with a moral and religious people. a well ordered society is not one that, is centralized with government control. A well ordered society is based on self governance and the fear of God. And so I think what is missing is the fear of God in this next generation. That is why so many of them are saying, saying, I'm, disillusioned. You know, I see corruption in every corner. You know, if everyone else is looting and pillaging and stealing, so to speak, why not me? because there is no fear of God. And we need to get back to that in the country. And I think that again, goes back to reasserting justice and then also at the same time, the church doing what it does best. We need to proselytize this country. We need to get back to our biblical roots. We need revival. We need reform.
Jenna Ellis: M. So well said. I could not agree more, Ryan Helfenbein.
Ryan: Where do you think the church should be focused for 20, 26
And we just have a couple of minutes left. But, you know, this goes into, the legacy of Charlie Kirk and the revival that we saw spark in September of last year. And where do you think that, all of this for the next generation is headed, in terms of, of seeking God and, and where the church should be focused for 20, 26.
Ryan Helfenbein: You know, I'm, I'm so glad you went back to our friend Charlie. I know he was a friend of yours, friend of mine. we miss Charlie. What happened on September 10th was very real. it was horrific tragedy that we all witnessed. What happened on September 21st was equally real. we saw in that memorial service Christ glorified. He was praised, he was preached, and he was. Even the name of Jesus was spoken, Jenna, by some that I don't think have bent the knee to Christ. I don't think that ultimately know Jesus. So I don't think everybody from that platform knows who Jesus Christ is personally. But let me say this. it goes right back to the pages of scripture that one day every knee will bow tongue, confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father, and that that includes those who are heaven bound and those who have, are unrepentant, have not turned from their sins and they are on the fast track to hell. Every single person one day will bend the knee to Jesus. Here's the thing. I am very hopeful that this next generation, and there are many, who are waking up to the reality that their evil does exist. And if evil exists in this world, what we saw with Tyler Robinson's taking of Charlie's life, the alleged shooter, if that is evil, evil incarnate, we also saw goodness. We saw the goodness of God. We saw it exhibited in people like Charlie Kirk and also in Frank turek, in Mikey McCoy and many others. There's a distraction happening right now in the conservative movement with these various social media influencers who are sowing seeds of deceit and vision and destruction. We need to ultimately bring it back.
Jenna Ellis: To Christ, to truth. Thanks so much Ryan, and as always, you can reach me and my team. Jennafr.net PreBorn's whole mission is to rescue babies from abortion and lead their families to Christ. Last year, PreBorn's network of clinics saw 8,900 mothers come to Christ. Christ, please join us in this life saving mission. To donate, go to preborn.com afr.
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Jenna Ellis: Because of listeners like you, PreBorn has helped to rescue over 67,000 babies. Your $28 to sponsor one ultrasound doubled a baby's chance at life. Your tax deductible gift saves lives. Please join us in this mission. To donate, go to preborn.com afr America. Is about to celebrate her 250th birthday. In the beginning of our country, almost all American children were raised with a Christian worldview that has drastically changed over the last 250 years. What's your opinion on what we can. Do to restore it? Your thoughts and your support will help us fight for our kids. And we'll give you the DVD Educated for Liberty with Stephen McDowell as our thanks. Visit afa.neteducate today afa.net Educate Jenna Ellis. In the morning on American Family Radio.
Jenna Ellis: I love talking about the things of God because of truth and the biblical worldview, the U.S. constitution obligates our government to preserve and protect the rights that our founders recognize come from God, our creator, not our government. I believe that scripture in the Bible is very clear that God is the one that raised up each of you. And God has allowed us to be brought here to this specific moment in time.
Scott Uehlinger: This is Jenna Ellis in the Morning.
US military campaign against Venezuela culminated with the capture of President Nicholas Maduro
Jenna Ellis: Good morning. It is Tuesday, January 6th. 6th. And we need to talk about Venezuela. And so, that operation Timeline, which was a US military campaign titled Operation Absolute Resolve, culminated January 3rd with the capture of President Nicholas Maduro following months of escalating tensions, some designation of gangs as terrorists, the narco terrorism, campaigns by the Department of War, covert intel, and several of those fatal strikes on alleged drug boats. And now the question, of course becomes first and foremost, will Maduro actually face justice? He pled, not guilty in a NewSong York court yesterday amid some, political, mumblings to the judge who rightly cut him off and said, this is not the time to protest your arrest. I just need a, a plea. And the question, of course, for for Americans is what exactly happened with Venezuela and was the purpose to oust the regime? Was the purpose more for m. Oil. There are talks of whether, all of that, oil that Venezuela holds, that now maybe, eventually in American possession could even pay off the national debt. those are some of the rumors and regime change and all of this. But how does this fit into kind of the greater scheme of President Trump's foreign policy? Well, let's welcome in Scott Ulinger, who is a retired CIA officer for more.
Scott Uehlinger : Trump addressing five problems by taking action on Venezuela oil
So, Scott, let's kind of break this Down. Where do you want to start?
Scott Uehlinger: Sure. Good morning, Jenna. well, this is obviously, this is a major event, and in fact, in Latin America, it's looked upon as, this is the equivalent of the fall of the Berlin Wall. So don't underestimate how huge this is, as Trump would say. But, the thing to take away from this is that.
Scott Uehlinger: Right?
Scott Uehlinger: The thing to take away from this is that, is that, so to speak, as the military would say, Venezuela is the belly button of a lot of the problems that face America. and so he's basically, he's addressing like five problems at once by doing what he did. And timing is everything. regarding the oil,
Scott Uehlinger: Well,
Scott Uehlinger: Regarding the oil, the, Venezuelan government confiscated us, technology and oil holdings, in the year 2000, and the United States didn't do anything about it. And it's to the tune of billions of dollars. It's like $20 billion. International Court of Settlements, stated that, ConocoPhillips was ripped off to the tune of billions of dollars and Venezuela had to make restitution. Well, that was 20 years ago. So, certainly US business has a lot of, material and I, guess land leases coming back to them. But more important than, and now the United States will have the ability to, basically decide who gets the oil. Now, Trump already has said that he will not halt shipping of, Venezuelan oil to China because China is, quite dependent on it. Like, 80% of Venezuelan oil went to China. he's basically silently telling China, okay, look, I'll let you have the oil until you start making trouble, then you're not getting the oil. And this is very, very important because basically you're not going to see an invasion of Taiwan if China doesn't have access to the oil. So Trump may very well have postponed or stopped a future war with China invading Taiwan, because more important than us having oil, he's making sure that China maybe doesn't have the oil. So right there, that's. That is extremely important in and of itself.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, it really is.
Even Russia, Iran or Cuba have ties to the Maduro government
And I think, with the focus being so much on Venezuela, who's going to come, ah, in and be the next president, and how that regime change, will happen. And some of those questions, it's really been a narrow focus in the media, just on Venezuela, not so much, the ripple effect of this operation and US Relations with China, as you mentioned, and even Russia, Iran or Cuba, I mean, all of them as well, have ties to the Maduro government. So how does, this affect even broader than China?
Scott Uehlinger: Right.
Scott Uehlinger: Because basically under Maduro, the place was a criminal command center for corruption, for noco, terrorism, for foreign intel operations, everything. And now that has been removed. Cuba, obviously, is very important. An enemy of the United States since 1962, before I was even born. and now, because they are dependent totally on Venezuelan oil, to keep the communist illusion going for the last 25 years, they could collapse almost under their own weight in less than a year. Now, if Trump pushes them, it will happen even faster. Or, Rubio, who is a Cuban American, by the way. so Cuba is obviously extremely important, and Iran is also very important. So now possibly China is looking at a one, two punch with Venezuela, eliminated as an oil source. Definitely. And, potentially Iran, with the demonstrations that are currently going on in Iran. Russia is also there too. So basically, it's like if you went to a bar in Caracas, it would be like going to the Star wars bar. You'd have Chinese advisors, you'd have Russian military advisors, you'd have Iranians running around, you'd have members of Hezbollah running around. Another thing that used to happen, and this is very significant from an intel viewpoint, is there were Iranian terrorists, Hezbollah, et cetera, going to Venezuela, and they were being issued Venezuelan passports, genuine, Venezuelan passports by their government. So these operatives could be throughout the United States, thanks to, Uncle Joe, letting people in, in the last several years. So all of these things are devastating. But another thing that is very important and, I think, refers to the timing of this incident, is Venezuela's involvement with the smartmatic voting system. Venezuelan, it was Venezuela, along with other people, that created the voting system that enabled, Maduro to steal the elections two years ago, even though he only had 25% of the vote. Smartmatic was bought by another company which ran the US election software. Now, this is coming out, but it's coming out slower than the other things I've described. And so why is this important? This is highly important. Oh, by the way, and yesterday on Truth Social and stuff, Trump was tweeting, putting out all kinds of things about the 2020 election fraud because Maduro is, likely to, when he's in his trial, to describe his. The corruption that is present in the United States, how many senators have been getting payoffs from Venezuela, how many Iranian terrorists have been let in, and how the smartmatic voting system was incorporated into the United States. This is very important in Trump's buildup and to making major moves in 2026 against the deep state.
Jenna Ellis: Wow. And do you think that, the process that. I recognize, you know, that. And we have another lawyer, you know, coming on after this, that may be able to answer this question better. But just in terms of the process and how long this takes, I mean, if we're looking at getting some of those answers from Maduro, before the 2026 election, I mean, is there, is there time, to do that, or do you think this is more looking forward to 2028?
Scott Uehlinger: I think that there is time to do this. I certainly think that it is. And the lawyer can answer that better from a legal point. But, I think that this is all. It is certainly part of Trump's strategy to do this before the midterms, to get this done. And so, I think that that is part of it. Somebody even said yesterday, and it made a great deal of sense that a lot, a lot of the takedowns of gang members and stuff like that within the country, in the United States were actually, were actually terrorist cells that have now been eliminated because they knew they were going to be going into Venezuela and they wanted to avoid any kind of retaliation within the United States. So that is certainly possible. And as an intel officer, I keep an open mind. But basically, I, think Trump has, by doing this, Trump has thrown a lot of the bad people in the world into chaos. The Chinese are enraged by this stuff. And, you know, I mean, I love seeing Chinese Communists rolling on the carpet, pulling their hair out, and I'm sure you do, too. So, this is fantastic stuff. And it's hard to believe that we're the same country that just had a humiliating withdrawal from Afghanistan only two years ago. And so the United States is right.
Jenna Ellis: What a difference. The president.
Scott Uehlinger: Now that we're back, and now that we're back, this makes the possibility of war anywhere in the world, certainly directed against the United States, much less likely, because we have done things that no other world power can even think about doing. Chinese and Russian radars and missiles were proven to be absolutely useless in Caracas. and Russia and China have shown themselves be the worst allies possible. They do nothing to help people. And you don't think that's a message that resounds, in the presidencies of hundreds of countries around the world, that the Russians and, Chinese talk a big game, but they do nothing when the United States is involved. So either you ally yourself with the United States, or you're looking at some hard Times in your future.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And, you know, it's so fascinating how just this one action and kind of tip of the spear and obviously, you know, there were actions that led up to this, then have so many different ripple effects, between you know, our relations with other nations, other things going on in the United States. I see this as a large part of President Trump's, goal as well in the Trump mandate of his, election in 2024, to. To do kind of the mass deportations. You know, speaking of trend, getting a lot of these Venezuelans that came in, perhaps under some kind of amnesty or refugee status, to actually go back home and have some of those deportations. And yet, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was on, the news, I think it was Fox, ah, yesterday, saying that, that some of these Venezuelans could reapply for status. And it didn't seem like she was that eager to make the point that a lot of these people, should be going back home, especially now that the refugee status is not really in effect based on Maduro.
Scott Uehlinger: Right.
Scott Uehlinger: And so. But that is something that will happen. See. So there's another genius stroke is that this will encourage. There will be certainly, some Venezuelans who will definitely go home, as there are Cuban Americans who will be going if Cuba, winds up falling apart this year, which I think is quite possible. So, basically Trump is trying to set up a much more stable South America and by doing so he's going to. That reduces the pressure for immigration into the United States, rather than just close the border. He also reduced the desire of people to want to go to the United States because you're improving their countries. And so by, right now President Trump is working with the present vice President of Venezuela. Now we'll see where that goes. But he is also smart enough to understand that the de baathification of Iraq was a disaster. You can't just send every bureaucrat home and every soldier home and expect the country to continue. Iraq collapsed because of that. And so right now he is working with members of the Maduro regime who quite understand that if they don't toe the line, they're probably going to be going to prison or worse. So they have a real incentive to do what they're told and stabilize the country and set it up for future elections so that when the elections come, the transition will be very natural and will not have any of the chaos that was a feature of the invasion of Iraq.
Jenna Ellis: Wow. So much more we could go into, We've got to take a break here. Scott Ewlinger, I always so appreciate your analysis and your perspective because I think a lot of this, really isn't analysis that you're hearing on mainstream. Certainly, of course, from, some of the leftist media outlets who are just, you know, screaming over, you know, the U.S. constitution and not really understanding exactly what's going on here. But we're going to get into all of that and also, the trial that's coming up for Maduro when we, come right back here on Jenna Ellis in the morning.
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Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro arraigned in New York on drug charges
Jenna Ellis: Welcome back. Well, as we've been talking about, Maduro has pled not not guilty in a NewSong York federal court, claiming he's a quote, unquote decent man. Not, sure he understands what decency means in America, you know, since he wasn't even speaking English. But Fox News reports that Maduro, the dethroned Venezuelan dictator indicted on major drug trafficking and weapons charges in the United States, arrived in a federal court in NewSong York at noon Monday for his arraignment days after American forces captured him in his own presidential palace. As U.S. marshals escorted him into the courtroom, he greeted members of the press and the public in the gallery by saying happy NewSong Year in Spanish. Minutes into the proceeding, the judge Cut him off when he claimed he had been kidnapped. the judge had asked him to confirm his full name. He replied, I am Nicholas Maduro, Moros, through a translator. And he said, president of Venezuela. I am here, kidnapped, and I am here since January 3rd. Third Saturday, I was captured at my home in Caracas, Venezuela. The judge then cut him off, said the hearing was not the proper time for Maduro to protest his arrest. And moments later, the judge asked him to enter a guilt, a plea. And he said, I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a decent man. I am still the president of my country. but that indictment has been pending, since the first Trump administration. And then U.S. attorney General, Bill Barr had some commentary on that indictment that he oversaw at the Trump DOJ on Fox News Sunday. Here's what he had to say. I have a high degree of confidence he'll ultimately be convicted. And all the legal arguments that have been raised really were raised during the prosecution of Noriega, which was a very parallel situation. I think he will be convicted, and I think he's looking at, at sentences similar to, if not bigger than, Noriega sentence. He's, He's. He's committed far more crimes, in my mind, than Noriega did.
Gerard Felitti: The initial indictment is very strong
Jenna Ellis: All right, well, let's welcome in Gerard Felitti, who is a senior counsel at the Lawfare Project. And, Gerard. So, you know, this is in NewSong York, and, so there is some speculation online already that not all charges, will be a guilty verdict just, just because of the demographic there. Governor Ron DeSantis of my home state of Florida has indicated there may be charges forthcoming for Maduro in Miami, which I think is very fascinating. But what's your, perspective overall on at least the initial indictment?
Gerard Filitti: I think the initial indictment is very strong, and it lays out a very good case against Maduro as the head of a drug cartel rather than the elected president of a country which, he is not. The United States and the European Union and many countries don't recognize as leadership is legitimate. The indictment is very thorough and comprehensive in laying out the activities that justify a conviction. so I think that as it stands right now, he has, a hard task to basically counter the government's evidence that will be put forth during trial to disprove the case that the government is alleging.
Jenna Ellis: And, do you know why this was brought specifically in a NewSong York federal court?
Gerard Filitti: Well, I think the main reason you bring it into NewSong York federal court is two reasons. One is that it is a place that has jurisdiction. A lot of the financial transactions that are US Dollar denominated go through banks in NewSong York and that gives the SDNY jurisdiction. But the other reason is also that NewSong York does have very good judges in the Southern District and Eastern District who have dealt with high profile cases, international cases, cases of international.
Gerard Filitti: Law as well that come up.
Gerard Filitti: so you have a confluence of there is proper jurisdiction, but you also have really good judges.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And hopefully that's the case of, you know, really good judges to make sure that the process is, goes the way that it should. And the. Our prior guest, in the first segment who is a former CIA intelligence officer, was suggesting that the timeline of this could end up having the DOJ end up with some statements from Maduro, on some of his alleged crimes even before the 2026 election. And President Trump may be looking to that, to perhaps you know, have some kind of election integrity measures, you know, and some other things. Overall, with some of what of information Maduro may provide in your mind, do you think that that is too quick of a timeline or how should we anticipate this process to unfold?
Gerard Filitti: Well, I think that in the Southern District, ironically, criminal cases do tend to move fairly quickly. I think that we are likely to see this progress into the discovery phase by summer, and we might even get to trial this year at the end of this year. Now that that doesn't take into account appeals and other issues that will come along the way. I know that Maduro's team is anticipating making motions to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction, claiming that he has sovereign immunity as the leader of a, of a country, and that he was for to be abducted. I don't think those motions will go anywhere, but they need time to play out. I do think that we will be at at a point where we will have a verdict likely by the election in 2026.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. Wow. that would be incredible. And what would a guilty verdict, imply, at least in terms of the presidency of Venezuela and how that regime change, is likely to occur? I mean, is that a totally separate question? And you know, regardless of what happens with the trial that's going to proceed or how do those things work in tandem?
Gerard Filitti: well, I think you've got two different factors. You've got the legal and you've got the political. The legal. You can even break that down more into the criminal proceeding against Maduro himself. You will see noises in the international community alleging that the US Violated international law. So that's a, a separate legal issue. You may see Congress raise questions about whether the President needs congressional approval for future act or further action in, in Venezuela. So that's a third legal issue that will come up. But ultimately what happens in Venezuela is a political issue. I think that we've seen wide scale non recognition of Maduro as legitimate. And now the question is, how will things unfold in Venezuela? Will this interim regime move towards democracy, move towards holding free election? Do we need to put more pressure, economic or military on Venezuela? or, will things move forward on their own?
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, I mean, so many questions. I'm speaking with Jared, Felitti, who is senior counsel at the Lawfare Project.
Democrats have objected to President Trump using war power without congressional approval
And, speaking of the, questions from Congress, I mean, obviously a lot of the objections to this whole operation from the Democrats have centered around unconstitutional use, of, war power without congressional approval. And yet, one of the best arguments I've seen has been, you know, Democrats can't have selective enforcement when over the past, you know, 80 to 100 years, presidents have acted in this type of manner without, congressional approval. And so for the Democrats to come in and say, well, it's only Trump that needs to behave differently, is, is of course ridiculous. But, what are the constitutional arguments, in your view, that are pertinent to this situation? And, did Trump act, with authorization? constitutionally?
Gerard Filitti: I think you're absolutely right that the Democrats are looking at this very selectively, that there is a history and precedent of presidents on both sides of the aisle using their Article 2 powers to defend the United States and preemptively launch attacks against foreign nations or terrorist groups. We've seen this against ISIS in Syria. This was done by President and Obama as well. Recently we've seen this use of force in Yemen and other countries as well. So this is something that is precedential for the presidency, to do, if you will. Now, the issue under the war powers is you need to notify Congress. You don't need their permission. Once you notify them, that starts a clock on whether or not Congress authorizes further use of force or you have to withdraw forces. So that's really the issue here is congressional authority for anything further that happens. The bigger issue, to be honest, is President Trump saying that he, that the United States will run Venezuela. if he literally means that there will be US Boots on the ground or the US Will take administrative control, then you do need congressional approval, you need oversight, you need funding, you need to exercise that War Powers act, if he means something less than that, then it's more of a gray area and he probably doesn't need authorization for Congress for the action that he already carried out.
Gerard Filitti: Out.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And, well, you know, knowing Trump as, as we do over the last 10 years, we're not really sure what he means by that. And I think time will tell, of course, but this also to the, to the political part of this, Gerard, this is why it, it becomes so imperative, to, for the Republicans to maintain and hopefully expand their majorities in the House and the Senate in 2026. Because, if Trump does need congressional approval, then, of course, if the Democrats came in power, they would love nothing other than to obstruct and possibly, even, look at impeachment over, you know, who knows what. But obviously, look at Trump as a target and at minimum, obstruct any sort of endeavors he would take in Venezuela. And I think, I mean, really, anything else.
Gerard Filitti: Well, that's right. And you also have people in the Republican Party, Massey mtg, Who, Najee Taylor Green, while she's still there, who are opposed to, who, have made it clear that they would.
Jenna Ellis: And we lost Gerard. but we were going to have to take a break right after that comment anyway, so we'll just go ahead and head to the break. but I think that his point is very well taken that, you know, even some Republicans, are opposed to Trump's agenda. And so, with such a narrow majority in the House and, the Senate, then, Republicans really don't have any wiggle room here. And so I think this is definitely going to be a huge focus of at least the Trump campaign heading into the midterms. Whether or not the GOP overall gets on board with that, whether they're more eyeing 2028 and wanting to kind of get rid of the, you know, MAGA rule versus bringing in someone else from the establishment. I mean, so many different factors are coming into play. It's going to be really fascinating to see how this all shakes out. And really what we should be putting, praying for as Christian conservatives is to make sure that we elect the best possible representatives that will actually do the job that the American people want. We'll be right back. welcome back to Jenna Ellis in the Morning on American Family Radio.
Tim Walls drops reelection bid amid scrutiny over alleged Minnesota welfare fraud
Jenna Ellis: Welcome back. Well, there is a massive fraud situation going on in Minnesota, and Governor Tim Walls says, on second thought, maybe I won't run for reelection. in my personal opinion, I don't think that's good enough. I think he needs to resign. And that may be forthcoming depending on what else happens in the coming weeks and months with this whole fraud investigation. The DOJ has now formally opened an investigation into the fraud. And so this coming from Daybreak insider from Salem News. the exposure of the fraud in the Somali immigrant community in the Twin Cities has made it clear the embattled Democrats, speaking of Governor Tim Walz could not win again and the scandal is not going away anytime soon. The Financial Times reports Tim Walls has dropped his bid for reelection as Minnesota governor amid mounting pressure over allegations of sprawling state welfare fraud. After rising to national prominence as Kamala Harris's running mate in 2024, the former Democrat Congress member said in a surprise announcement Monday, well surprise is probably in quotes there but surprise announcement on Monday he would abandon his effort to seek a third term as governor following national scrutiny of the alleged scandal in Minnesota safety net programs. And ah, President Trump said Minnesota's corrupt governor will possibly leave office before his term is up, up but in any event will not be running again because he was caught red handed in all caps along with Ilhan Omar and other of his Somali friends stealing tens of billions of taxpayer dollars. That was posted on Truth Social. And a commentator Alex Berenson said Walls reckoning feels like the beginning, not the end of a trend. And I think Berenson's comment is absolutely right because we don't know at this point point how far this extends into the overall DNC and Democrat overall funding machine. And it's really fascinating to me and I think the question, one of many pertinent questions is going to become was Tim Walls selected to be Kamala Harris's running mate because of so much of, of this funding going into so many layers of the DNC apparatus And so how far this extends upward and outward I think should make Democrats very nervous. They're already seeking to kind of deflect the, the whole narrative onto you know, other kind of frivolous applications against Republicans, like Representative Mike Collins suggesting that a paid intern somehow didn't actually do any work. And it's like oh wow, you know that's a real big scandal compared to all of the fraud that's being alleged. But the, the point that we also need to be paying attention to is not just how much of this fraud is now being alleged and where the DOJ investigation goes, but the fact that this wouldn't have even come to light without an independent journalist actually just going on the ground to the Somali daycare centers, asking questions and kind of blowing this wide open. It begs the question, where was the rest of the mainstream media? Where have has all of this been? I mean, we could have found this out during the 2024 presidential election when Tim Walls was the Democrat nominee. I mean, imagine the scandal that it would have been then. And then the next question is, are Republican going to actually force any accountability? Because accountability should not be partisan. Accountability should be part of the fabric of America to ensure that this kind of corruption never, ever occurs. So let's welcome in Ryan Helfenbein, who is the Vice President of Communications at Liberty University. Ryan, your thoughts on all of this.
Jenna: There is corruption in Minnesota going all the way to the governor
Ryan Helfenbein: Wow. So Jenna, I mean, you know, it's amazing. News never sleeps. And here we went through the Christmas break and, we were shocked, shocked, but not really shocked or surprised to find out that there is corruption in one of the bluest states, in the country. And it's a total failure, it's a failure going all the way to the governor's office. It's a failure at the state level, it's a failure at the local level. Mass, corruption, billions of dollars that were fraudulently, stolen, from taxpayers, going towards resettlement, refugee programs, all kinds of things where people were using those benefits, to operate daycare centers, food pantries that were non existent. you also look at the fact that Walz's own policy when it comes to climate change, when it comes to the lgbtq, cartel, trying to make it a safe harbor state for those who want to get a sex change operation, under the age of 18, they could have a court appointed, custodian, to take care of kids and essentially, trans a child, from being a boy to being a girl. this was all happening in Minnesota. This was all happening under Tim Walz's watch. And as I was hearing you, just before coming on, I couldn't agree more than in the 2024 election cycle, much of this was exposed. if you went on social media, if you were listening to the talking points of conservative pundits, you heard a lot about this. But in the mainstream, the legacy media, you heard nothing, absolutely crickets about this. Walls, was supposed to be the balance to the extremism of Kamala Harris. Walls was supposed to be the one that was going to be reaching in the Rust Belt towards men, you, know, masculinity, and to be some kind of balance. but he's extreme. He's even more extreme than Kamala is. And that's a surprise. That's kind of a shock, unless we forget, it was, you know, St. Paul, Minneapolis, where essentially the Floyd riot started. So they were the hotbed. And this is in a very, very blue state with very progressive policies, cashless bail, all kinds of things, that, that are soft on crime policies. And yet that was the place where BLM started. That was the place where cities started to burn back in 2020 during COVID That was all under Tim Law Walls Watch. sadly, and I agree with you, we need accountability. It's great to expose these things, but people need to go to jail. And, so we'll see if Republicans, have the will, if Republicans have the nerve, ah, to prosecute these cases.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah. And wow, that's a really important, important, kind of flashback to the history of this. Not just looking at kind of this moment in time, but, you know, going all the way back to, to 2020 and even, you know, further on than that to see how all, all of these headlines kind of play into each other. but Ryan, you know, why do you think it is that the mainstream media, at least on the more conservative side, wasn't really covering this during the 2024 election? Because. Because it seems like that would have been a lot more helpful to President Trump. And you would think that investigative journalists, other than, you know, kind of just the independents, would have been more interested in this story during the 2024 cycle, I think.
Ryan Helfenbein: And this is, this is going back 2024, even 2020, and before that. I think that much has changed in how legacy news, news reports media, and even with many, of these conservative websites, you know, they will put out opinion articles. a lot of those are curated in such a way. The content is curated in such a way that it is surface level information. It is the kind of information that is shared among, left wing news, right wing news. But very few people do classic journalism anymore. Very few people actually do investigatory reporting. They don't get to, you know, the local level. They don't put boots on the ground. They're not interviewing, local, citizens. They're not finding out or digging for information. So a lot of times what you see is a cursory glance, a cursory look at what's happening, at the national level. And most people are sharing the same talking points. And so this was kind of a rare look, and I'm hoping to see more of this. This, I think it's not just happening in blue states. sadly, it's also happening in red states. there's information even coming out of Texas, that there is fraud being committed, H1B visas, as well as Indian owned gas stations, that there are all kinds of programs that are being utilized, tax benefits and whatnot, that are being utilized to start up businesses and you have a leg up. if you are a foreign national who has received, a visa and you're immigrating to the United States, you have a leg up versus naturalized citizens. They don't have the same benefits, they can't draw from the same pool. Much of this will be exposed, I think, moving forward. Because, Jenna, we have eyes wide open now. And it's not just in blue states, it's happening in red states as well. But to your point, I think it's because classic journalism is dead. people are, you know, a lot of times people are sitting in their chair somewhere connected to the Internet and they're just scouring headlines at a surface level. Very few people are actually getting into, where the real news is being created or made. And they're not asking difficult questions. They're not interviewing people on the ground.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, and that's such a great point because, so much of the curated content that everybody is talking about, comes from a couple of sets of, you know, legacy media and their headlines that they choose to put out. And so that's why we need a lot of these, independent investigators. And this is why the proliferation of online social media, for all of its other drawbacks, one of the best benefits is so that these types of things can go viral and and, and actually change the news cycle and sort of force the legacy media to actually pay attention to what they should be instead of, just being able to curate that content and say, you know, these are the only set of items that, you know, everybody can talk about. But also to your point, Ryan Helfenbein, you know, there is so much fraud going on in so many different levels of, government benefits. You know, you mentioned a few. I just got another headline this morning that a former Georgia state rep is, was indicted yesterday on one count of making a false statement in connection with an application for federal unemployment benefits. During COVID 19. We've seen so many, instances of, you know, fraudulent SBA loans. You know, all of this then just feeds back into the point. Point of what, you know, Gen Z. And I think some of the young people are frustrated about with how much they're paying in taxes, can't get ahead and then yet they see, you know, all of this fraud occurring. And if our government does nothing about it, if Republicans, while they are in control, don't actually force accountability, that is a huge signal to the younger generation. We don't care about ensuring that you are put on the best path toward fulfilling your American dream. We'd rather just basically steal it from you and hand it to someone else. And I think that is a huge issue that is on the line for 2026 and also 2028.
Ryan King says corruption engenders Robin Hood mentality among young people
Ryan Helfenbein: You, I think you point to the most important thing that corruption, ultimately engenders in the next generation. And that is, you know, this Robin Hood mentality. I forget the name, but the guy that is on trial for murder in the state of NewSong York, NewSong York City, who murdered the head of an insurance company, you know, that is a perfect example. Many people on social media sympathizes with him. young people across the nation are looking to our institutions and they're saying, hey, they're so utterly corrupt, I'm paying exorbitant taxes anyway. And by the way, a lot of this is socialist style redistribution. on these smaller things, why not do it on a grander scale? I want the government to solve my affordability crisis. I want rent controls where I live, not just in NewSong York City but elsewhere. And this is a huge problem. This is a problem with the Gen Z generation. And when honor is missing, I'm reminded of the C.S. lewis quote, you know, about geldings that don't produce hollow chested men, men without honor, men without loyalty. we've robbed that next generation with a sense of duty, with pride and with expectation. A lot of them are looking to these institutions, legacy institutions that are federal government, state governments, and they're saying, wow, why not me? If these guys can get all of these goodies and these freebies, why not me? We're going to have a huge problem on our hands when it comes to socialism. And we could lose this argument with the next generation. Not that socialism works, we know it fails. But when they see so much corruption with the existing system, that becomes the water in the dam that ultimately breaks. And that's what we need to be concerned about and why I think it is so important that these cases be prosecuted, that they be tried, that people are brought to justice and people are put in jail. Because just like we treated the Venezuela dictator, just a couple of days ago. If we allow for these things to happen, it sees more destruction, more chaos down the road and we could lose the very country that we're trying to preserve and keep.
Jenna Ellis: Yeah, and that's a really fascinating point Ryan that you know when young people see this type of corruption the tendency is well if they're getting free handouts why not me as well? What are you doing for me? And we're seeing a, some rise of a kind of demand for a little more of the, the socialist kind of economic model. Thankfully there's a huge segment on the right that you know saying no to that and that's a very good thing. But why do you think it is that the demand when there's fraud like that and, and young people see that, that why is the reaction well you know, give me the benefit too instead of stop the fraud. Let me keep more of my hard earned money and make them go work as hard as I'm having to work.
Ryan Helfenbein: You know it's interesting, I do think this is if you can't beat them, join them. But I, you know there's an aspect of that but I do, I will say this and this is why it's so important. Faith is an element here and I think as you have, you know again we have pockets of revival, we have signs that our nation is coming back. when it comes to religiosity, when it comes to the non affiliated and those who didn't grow up in church, I think it's something like 34% of Gen Z have not attended a church service anywhere at any time in their life. They are the most non religious generation and yet we're seeing through pew research, through Bible sales, through you know a number of outlets that have been reporting on this that faith is making a comeback. That's wonderful but for the, but still by every measure the Gen Z generation is the most non religious. That leads to a kind of nihilistic worldview. A ah, worldview without God, without a sense of ultimate justice, without a sense of ultimate right and wrong. Black and white, stark differences, contrasts. when you live in the green, when you live in the societal expectation that there is no ultimate right or wrong, there is no God to be accountable to. people just treat the world like it's a mass Grand Theft Auto kind of game. and at the end of the day they just do whatever pleases them. This kind of reminds me of judges. There is no king in Israel. Everyone does what is right in their own eyes. You've written tons on, on constitutional theory and history, Jenna. We, know that self governance ultimately begins with a moral and religious people. a well ordered society is not one that, is centralized with government control. A well ordered society is based on self governance and the fear of God. And so I think what is missing is the fear of God in this next generation. That is why so many of them are saying, saying, I'm, disillusioned. You know, I see corruption in every corner. You know, if everyone else is looting and pillaging and stealing, so to speak, why not me? because there is no fear of God. And we need to get back to that in the country. And I think that again, goes back to reasserting justice and then also at the same time, the church doing what it does best. We need to proselytize this country. We need to get back to our biblical roots. We need revival. We need reform.
Jenna Ellis: M. So well said. I could not agree more, Ryan Helfenbein.
Ryan: Where do you think the church should be focused for 20, 26
And we just have a couple of minutes left. But, you know, this goes into, the legacy of Charlie Kirk and the revival that we saw spark in September of last year. And where do you think that, all of this for the next generation is headed, in terms of, of seeking God and, and where the church should be focused for 20, 26.
Ryan Helfenbein: You know, I'm, I'm so glad you went back to our friend Charlie. I know he was a friend of yours, friend of mine. we miss Charlie. What happened on September 10th was very real. it was horrific tragedy that we all witnessed. What happened on September 21st was equally real. we saw in that memorial service Christ glorified. He was praised, he was preached, and he was. Even the name of Jesus was spoken, Jenna, by some that I don't think have bent the knee to Christ. I don't think that ultimately know Jesus. So I don't think everybody from that platform knows who Jesus Christ is personally. But let me say this. it goes right back to the pages of scripture that one day every knee will bow tongue, confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father, and that that includes those who are heaven bound and those who have, are unrepentant, have not turned from their sins and they are on the fast track to hell. Every single person one day will bend the knee to Jesus. Here's the thing. I am very hopeful that this next generation, and there are many, who are waking up to the reality that their evil does exist. And if evil exists in this world, what we saw with Tyler Robinson's taking of Charlie's life, the alleged shooter, if that is evil, evil incarnate, we also saw goodness. We saw the goodness of God. We saw it exhibited in people like Charlie Kirk and also in Frank turek, in Mikey McCoy and many others. There's a distraction happening right now in the conservative movement with these various social media influencers who are sowing seeds of deceit and vision and destruction. We need to ultimately bring it back.
Jenna Ellis: To Christ, to truth. Thanks so much Ryan, and as always, you can reach me and my team. Jennafr.net PreBorn's whole mission is to rescue babies from abortion and lead their families to Christ. Last year, PreBorn's network of clinics saw 8,900 mothers come to Christ. Christ, please join us in this life saving mission. To donate, go to preborn.com afr.
In this captivating episode of Jenna Ellis in the Morning, Jenna dives deep into the recent dramatic developments in Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Joined by retired CIA officer Scott Ulinger, they dissect the implications of Operation Absolute Resolve, exploring whether the operation was aimed at regime change or securing Venezuela's vast oil reserves, which could potentially influence U.S. national debt. Jenna and Scott discuss the broader geopolitical ramifications, particularly regarding U.S. relations with China, Russia, and Iran, as well as the historical context of Maduro’s regime and its connections to global terrorism. They also touch on the upcoming trial of Maduro in NewSong York and its potential impact on U.S. politics ahead of the 2026 elections. The conversation highlights the importance of accountability and the need for a unified Christian response to the challenges facing America today. 00:00 | PreBorn's mission to rescue over 67,000 babies 01:21 | Venezuela's historical context and the implications of Maduro's capture 14:38 | The significance of Venezuelan oil in U.S. foreign policy 20:08 | Scott Ulinger: The chaos in Venezuela and its impact on global relations 34:01 | The role of Cuba and other nations in supporting Maduro 35:10 | The potential consequences of Maduro's trial for U.S. politics 44:14 | The importance of accountability in government and the upcoming elections 45:58 | How the Venezuelan situation reflects broader issues within the U.S.
https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/venezuela-strikes/card/special-operations-forces-led-maduro-extraction-1SLul1P6Jc3v252A73Fn
https://apnews.com/article/maduro-venezuela-trump-criminal-case-131f59e517cc8314a53c8dace230d328
https://nypost.com/2026/01/05/us-news/gov-tim-walz-expected-to-drop-reelection-bid-amid-minnesota-somali-fraud-probe-report/
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