Topic: Russian House

Democratic lawmakers Adam Schiff and Dianne Feinstein demand that social media companies investigate alleged Russian bot activity promoting the "Release the Memo" hashtag. The memo in question concerns alleged FBI surveillance abuses. Critics dismiss the request as pathetic, noting that the hashtag was largely driven by public figures and concerned citizens rather than automated accounts.

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest struggled to provide concrete evidence of Russian hacking during a press briefing, relying instead on the "consensus view" of 17 intelligence agencies. Earnest pointed to a Department of Homeland Security report containing technical advice for system administrators as proof of a "deep technical analysis." The hosts criticize this logic, arguing that providing basic security remediation steps does not definitively tie the activity to the Russian government.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the show discussing their recent illnesses, comparing symptoms of a widespread flu strain and the effectiveness of antivirals like Relenza and Tamiflu. Dvorak describes his recovery process, which included attending a traditional Russian Orthodox Christmas dinner at Russian House in Austin with Sir Gene, Earl of Texas. The hosts note the timing of the flu epidemic coinciding with the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Dvorak recounts a surprise meeting with magician Brian Brushwood at a Russian dinner in Austin, organized by the Earl of Texas. The conversation covers the aesthetics of Russian waitresses, the specifics of Russian celebratory salads, and a Russian official's comment that the Paris tragedy proves Russia is not the primary threat to Europe.

The hosts conclude the show with an anecdote about a lunch at "Russian House," discussing borscht, beet salad, and red caviar. Adam Curry previews his analysis of the 1,100-page NDAA 2014 and announces a new segment for the next episode: 2014 predictions.