Topic: Open The Books

The Department of War faces scrutiny over reports of extravagant spending, including $6.9 million on lobster tails and $15 million on ribeye steaks in a single month. Critics, including Stephen Colbert and CNN, highlight these costs alongside purchases of Herman Miller recliners and fruit basket stands. Secretary Pete Hegseth is accused of burning through a $93 billion budget in September 2025 as the war with Iran looms.

A report from "Open The Books" reveals that $325 million in third-party royalty payments flowed to 2,400 NIH scientists, including Anthony Fauci. The data shows that Chinese companies, including state-owned Sinopharm, paid royalties to US health officials. The hosts discuss how this creates a massive conflict of interest, as taxpayer-funded research is licensed back to foreign entities and private corporations for executive profit.