9 chapters across the catalog
US Missile Defense Test and North Korea Warning
The Pentagon successfully conducted the first-ever intercept of a mock Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) over the Pacific. The interceptor was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base and hit a target launched from the Marshall Islands. The test is interpreted as a deterrent signal to North Korea following their recent missile tests.
Congressman Buddy Carter, Air Marshal First Class Travel
Congressman Buddy Carter of Georgia is criticized for his performance in a subcommittee hearing where he admitted to only visiting "Texas and Mexico." Carter questioned the head of the U.S. Marshal Service about air marshals flying first class and a mysterious "fee" on airlines, which the hosts identify as a minor $3 carbon surcharge.
Federal Air Marshal Robert McLean proposed a system to deputize vetted, able-bodied passengers to assist in aircraft protection. The plan suggests soliciting volunteers during the TSA PreCheck process to act as deputy air marshals in the cabin. McLean argues that expanding PreCheck and utilizing passenger volunteers would free up resources for professional officers to focus on actual attackers.
Federal Air Marshal Arrested for Upskirt Photos
Federal Air Marshal Adam Bartsch was arrested after a passenger caught him taking "upskirt" photos of women on a Southwest Airlines flight. Bartsch reportedly admitted to investigators that he had committed similar acts on numerous previous occasions.
Barbara Boxer, TSA Pre-Check Expansion
Senator Barbara Boxer praised the expansion of the TSA "Pre-Check" program, which the hosts describe as a "Trusted Traveler" scheme to implement biometric tracking. Boxer referred to standard security as "invasive screening" while promoting the new system as a solution for travel hassles. The hosts criticize the program as a way to condition the public into becoming "good little slaves."
Qatari Diplomat Shoe Incident and TSA Incompetence
A Qatari diplomat was detained after reportedly making a joke about lighting his shoe on fire while smoking in an airplane lavatory. The incident is used to critique the TSA's "security theater," noting that air marshals have more arrests for personal misconduct than for preventing terrorism. A theory is presented that the Department of Defense may be intentionally making the TSA look incompetent to gain leverage in technology negotiations.
Qatar Diplomat Smoke Scare and Denver CIA Offices
An incident involving a Qatari diplomat lighting a cigarette on a flight to Denver is discussed. The hosts suggest the event was overblown to reinforce the presence of air marshals and note the significance of Denver as a hub for the "New World Order" and relocated CIA offices.
Homeland Security Budget and Aviation Body Scanners
The Department of Homeland Security budget includes funding for 1,000 advanced imaging technology screening machines at U.S. airports. This increase in surveillance is linked to a shift toward more restrictive air travel, including more Federal Air Marshals. Concerns are raised that slowing down security lines creates large crowds that are themselves vulnerable targets.
The degradation of airline service is framed as a "reverse bailout" intended to replace expensive flight attendants with federally funded air marshals. Congressman Ron Paul's point that airlines are the only industry not responsible for their own security costs is cited to explain the industry's reliance on government intervention.
