The Dave Elswick Show

Global unrest and major policy shifts dominate today’s headlines. Iran faces escalating protests and international pressure, the U.S. moves to tighten immigrant visa rules, and the Supreme Court hears a heated case over women’s sports. Plus FBI activity involving a Washington Post reporter and growing economic uncertainty. A fast-paced breakdown of today’s biggest political and cultural stories.

A major State Department decision halts immigrant visa processing for dozens of countries, Iran erupts in nationwide protests as U.S. involvement looms, and the Supreme Court hears heated arguments over men competing in women’s sports. Plus FBI activity involving a Washington Post reporter, luxury retailers filing bankruptcy, and a controversial claim that infant baptism violates human rights. A packed episode covering today’s biggest political and cultural flashpoints.

Dave Elswick breaks down sanctuary cities and immigration enforcement, calls out government fraud and waste, and reacts to Supreme Court arguments on protecting women’s sports and biological reality

Dave Elswick delivers a hard-hitting commentary on sanctuary cities, immigration enforcement, government fraud and waste, work ethic, and the Supreme Court’s debate over men competing in women’s sports.

On this Wednesday edition of The Dave Ellsworth Show, Dave covers a packed slate of issues as the station prepares for a major studio move. Topics include breaking news out of Iran, ongoing protests and water shortages in Tehran, U.S. airstrikes targeting ISIS and al-Shabaab in Somalia, and the growing global fight over water resources. Congressman Bruce Westerman joins the show to discuss Western water wars, California’s water management, the Colorado River, forest management, immigration enforcement, sanctuary cities, border security, and the political outlook heading into the fall elections. A wide-ranging conversation offering perspective on national security, natural resources, and domestic policy.

This image highlights a series of significant law enforcement and legal developments from January 13, 2026. In Corpus Christi, Texas, the trial of former Uvalde CISD officer Adrian Gonzales continues into its second week, with emotional testimony from survivors and school staff. Concurrently, national attention is focused on the fatal ICE shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis, an incident currently under exclusive investigation by the FBI following widespread protests.

The search results display a series of breaking news stories from January 13, 2026, primarily focusing on high-profile law enforcement incidents. In Corpus Christi, Texas, the trial of former Uvalde CISD officer Adrian Gonzales enters its second week. Jurors recently heard emotional testimony from teacher Arnulfo Reyes, who survived the 2022 tragedy. Simultaneously, national attention is fixed on Minneapolis, where Department of Justice attorneys have reportedly

He notes that "anti-ICE" protesters demonstrated in Little Rock yesterday. He repeats his stance that the shooting, while tragic, was a result of the individual resisting federal agents.

Elizabeth Warren vs. Donald Trump: Elswick criticizes Senator Elizabeth Warren’s recent speech at the National Press Club, where she accused the Trump administration of driving up costs and "sowing terror" via ICE. Elswick disputes her claims, arguing that prices are stabilizing and that ICE is simply enforcing the law

Dave previews the Indiana vs. Oregon national championship game before diving into the Minneapolis ICE shooting. He discusses the "ridiculous" demands for arresting federal agents and the latest diamond find in Arkansas.

Dave Elswick breaks down the latest in international and local news, from President Trump’s Venezuelan oil strategy and the escalating protests in Iran to a major federal lawsuit challenging Arkansas polling restrictions.

Attorney Clint Lancaster discusses a new federal lawsuit filed by Bryan Norris against Arkansas officials, including Tim Griffin, to challenge election laws that restrict activity within 100 feet of polling locations. The suit argues that these restrictions unconstitutionally impede exit polling, which is protected as core political speech, and seeks a preliminary injunction ahead of the March 2026 primary.

In this episode of the Dave Elswick Show, Dave breaks down the morning's top news, starting with Miami’s 31–27 victory over Ole Miss and a preview of the upcoming Indiana vs. Oregon playoff matchup. The conversation shifts to major geopolitical shifts as President Trump announces the cancellation of a second wave of attacks on Venezuela in favor of cooperation and a $100 billion oil investment. Dave is joined by guest Clint Lancaster to discuss the escalating protests in Iran, the controversial shooting of a protester in Minneapolis, and the official start of the 2026 tax filing season.

In the final hour of the Dave Elswick Show, Dave weighs in on escalating ICE protests, law enforcement response, and personal accountability, while Matt Smith joins the program with a wide-ranging look at current box office hits, upcoming movie releases, streaming favorites, and insider tips on saving money on movie and concert tickets.

Razorback Zach joins the Dave Elswick Show to discuss major SEC coaching moves, Lane Kiffin controversy, college football playoff drama, Indiana’s surprise rise, Razorback basketball’s surge under John Calipari, Duke officiating debates, and an early look at SEC baseball. A fast-moving conversation on the chaos and excitement of college sports in 2026.

On the Dave Elswick Show, David Fisher analyzes rising global volatility, U.S. debt, geopolitical tensions, de-dollarization, and why gold and silver may see major gains in 2026. A wide-ranging conversation on markets, metals, and the financial shifts shaping the year ahead.

On this edition of the Dave Ellsworth Show, the Bumper to Bumper Car and Truck Doctors break down today’s automotive world—from luxury Genesis vehicles and ultra-thin synthetic oils to cold-weather maintenance, diesel mistakes, and carburetor rebuilds. It’s a mix of modern technology and old-school mechanic wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else.

The Dave Elswick Show examines the U.S. move to intercept a Russian-linked “ghost tanker” carrying sanctioned Venezuelan oil, growing protests in Iran driven by economic collapse, fallout from Maduro’s removal, major fraud investigations in Minnesota, and renewed debate over President Trump’s proposal to buy Greenland

The Dave Elswick Show covers the U.S. seizure of Russian-linked and stateless oil tankers carrying sanctioned Venezuelan oil, new scrutiny in Minnesota’s massive fraud scandal, renewed debate over President Trump’s push to acquire Greenland, cultural commentary involving Tim Allen, policing controversies, and the lingering impact of California’s devastating wildfires.

Congressmen French Hill and Bruce Westerman join the Dave Elswick Show to discuss unrest in Iran, the removal of Venezuela’s Maduro, America’s energy resurgence, the Monroe Doctrine, and why U.S. leadership at home and abroad matters heading into 2026.

Guest: Carlton Wing, Director of AETN

Guest Enrico Ravenna, Executive Director of Jewish Federation Arkansas

Guest: Ryan Norris from Americans for Prosperity Foundation Arkansas

Guest: Ryan Norris from Americans for Prosperity Foundation Arkansas

Guest: Paul Calvert

Guest: Paul Calvert

Guest: Paul Calvert

The Bible Guys discuss the issues of the day with Dave Elswick

Dave Elswick is joined by the Bumper to Bumper guys

This segment concludes the discussion on the massive welfare fraud scandal in Minnesota, arguing the state's failure stemmed from misinterpreting Somali immigrants as descendants of slaves (instead of new immigrants seeking a better life) and an over-sensitivity to being labeled "racist." The host stresses the need for immigrant assimilation and accountability, noting that the fear of racial accusations allowed the fraud, largely by a minority within the 80,000-person Somali community, to flourish. Internationally, the US has deployed F/A-18 fighter jets over the Gulf of Venezuela in a closer-than-usual move amid rising tensions over narcotics trafficking, and the host covers the dramatically changed appearance of the Apalachee High School shooting suspect in court. Finally, a Vermont school district sparked controversy by hoisting the Somali flag during a national reckoning over the Minnesota fraud.

This segment focuses on President Trump's economic messaging at a rally in Pennsylvania, where he countered the "affordability hoax" narrative by arguing he is successfully reversing the Biden administration's inflation (caused by $6 trillion in spending and anti-fossil fuel policies), citing falling gas prices and the impact of his "big beautiful bill" and tariffs. The segment also covers international affairs, including the pressure on Ukraine's President Zelensky to accept territorial concessions in a US-backed peace plan, Europe's perceived "weakness" and dependence on the US military within NATO, and rising tensions in the Pacific as China escalates its provocative actions against Japan. The discussion concludes with the launch of a world-first social media ban for youth under 16 in Australia, an action designed to protect minors from online harm and addictive algorithms.

This hour focuses on Republican political challenges and controversial topics, beginning with a discussion of the Republican lack of legislative achievement despite being in power, which the host attributes to the delayed impact of new policies (like "the big beautiful bill"). The segment highlights the controversial remarks of Democrat Representative Hank Johnson, who referred to the US as "the great Satan" and the "world's number one bully." Constitutional issues are examined, featuring legal scholar John Yoo discussing a pivotal Supreme Court case (scheduled for May) on nationwide injunctions and birthright citizenship, which could curb the power of local federal judges. Finally, the broadcast touches on a billion-dollar welfare fraud scandal in Minnesota primarily involving Somali immigrants, which allegedly flourished due to officials' fear of being labeled racist. The hour also includes a segment promoting QC Kinetics for non-surgical pain relief.

This segment features Congressmen French Hill and Bruce Westerman discussing the administration's efforts to reverse economic and regulatory damage from the previous term. Rep. Hill highlights the impact of "the big beautiful bill" and tax reforms (no tax on overtime/tips, expanded child tax credit, and immediate expensing for businesses) aimed at increasing real wages and spurring capital investment. The conversation then transitions to Rep. Westerman's "Speed Act," legislation designed to expedite and simplify the heavily delayed environmental and engineering permitting process for infrastructure, energy, and construction projects, which directly impacts affordability and national defense. Hill also addresses the controversy over military action against narco-terrorists in international waters and his opposition to a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), advocating for the continued use of cash.

This podcast segment discusses alarming signals in the U.S. economy, primarily focusing on a potential housing market crisis that some analysts suggest looks worse than the 2008 collapse due to high rates and collapsing affordability. The host references Jamie Dimon's "cockroaches in the system" warning, suggesting hidden bad debt is spreading, similar to the subprime mortgage crisis, with auto loan delinquencies spiking as well. The segment then pivots to the political and economic impact of the China trade war, specifically the $12 billion aid package proposed for farmers hurt by China's reduced soybean purchases and the subsequent market uncertainty. Finally, the discussion touches on the debate surrounding the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), with a focus on Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene's opposition due to high foreign aid spending amidst the rising $38 trillion national debt, alongside a critique of insider trading by politicians.

The segment covers two distinct but thematically linked issues: Christian persecution in Nigeria and the Islamization of Europe. Nigerian Genocide: The host discusses the ongoing, systematic jihad against Christians in Nigeria by radical Islamist factions, specifically the Falani tribe. Citing missionary Jed Saul, the hosts claim over 10,000 churches have been destroyed, and the Nigerian government's military apparatus is complicit in the attacks and cover-up. The militants are funded by ransoms from the kidnapping of Christians (like the recent abduction of 300 children) and illegal Chinese mining operations. Death of Europe: The host addresses the "Death Throws of Europe," arguing that mass Muslim immigration and a low native birth rate (below $2.2$ children per family) are leading to a cultural takeover. The problem is exacerbated by EU funding flowing to Muslim Brotherhood-linked organizations that aim to replace secular democracy with an Islamic theocracy. The host concludes by stressing the fundamental theological differences between Christianity and Islam, arguing that the belief that "Allah is the same as the Christian God" is dangerously ignorant.

The hosts challenge Democratic politicians who defend narco-terrorists caught smuggling drugs by citing "lack of economic opportunity." This defense is deemed absurd given the severity of the fentanyl crisis, which is causing approximately 200 deaths per day in the U.S. The hosts then defend the controversial military tactic of the "double tap" strike—hitting a target and then striking again to destroy survivors and ensure success—by arguing it is an established U.S. military method, noting that the Obama administration employed the same, or even more aggressive, "signature strike" lethal policies against terrorists.

Ryan Norris of Americans for Prosperity joins the host to discuss Arkansas politics, including the upcoming special general election and the focus on affordability. The central theme is the urgent need for tax reform in Arkansas, specifically lowering the income tax to compete with states like Oklahoma and Mississippi, and eliminating "antiquated" taxes like the personal property tax on business inventory. The hosts strongly advocate for a leaner government, arguing that state agencies should work to make themselves obsolete, operate only within core functions (protecting rights and safety), and avoid competing with the private sector. The segment also briefly promotes the annual Toy Troopers charity drive.

The hosts discuss the EU's massive fine on Elon Musk's X platform under the Digital Services Act, interpreting it as an attack on free speech and an effort to enforce censorship. They pivot to the societal threat posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically its moral blindspot, as AI's ability to create realistic deepfakes could be abused for political sabotage (like influencing elections). Finally, they cover a significant shift in U.S. health policy: the CDC's recommendation to change the default Hepatitis B vaccine for newborns to an optional vaccine based on parental choice and the mother's hepatitis status, a change long advocated by Senator Rand Paul.

The hosts criticize Democratic politicians for defending narco-terrorists caught on smuggling boats, arguing that the lawmakers are minimizing the crime by citing a "lack of economic opportunity" for the drug pushers. This leads to a discussion of the fentanyl crisis, where deaths are compared to an airliner crashing daily. The hosts then defend the Trump administration's policy of using "double tap" strikes to ensure the destruction of drug boats and survivors, citing evidence that the Obama administration used the same, or even more aggressive, lethal "signature strike" policies against terrorists.

Guests Pat and Randy discuss a patented phototherapy patch designed to activate the body's dormant stem cells. They explain that the patch uses light reflection (not transdermal delivery) to stimulate copper peptides, which in turn activate stem cells for natural healing and age-reversal effects, citing over 4,000 genes being reset within 48 hours. They share personal testimonies of increased energy and reduced chronic issues, and promote the product as both a health solution for everyone (even the healthy) and a business opportunity for generating supplemental income.

Dave and Billy discuss a heavily suppressed report suggesting COVID-19 vaccines caused fatalities, sharing personal stories of adverse effects while critiquing the media's silence and the lack of transparency during the pandemic. The conversation shifts to the dangers of rapidly advancing Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), its capacity to spread political misinformation and defamation (citing lawsuits over false claims against conservatives), and the challenges of combating AI-generated "predominant views" over facts. Finally, they debate proposed election reforms like a voter lottery and property-owner voting, ending with a speculative look at King Charles III and Antichrist conspiracy theories based on conference imagery

Dave dives into the Netflix acquisition of Warner Bros. (HBO/Discovery) for a reported $82.7 billion, framing it as a major shakeup in the streaming wars and criticizing Netflix's lack of business diversification compared to Amazon and Disney. The show also covers the intense rumors at the MLB Winter Meetings regarding high-value free agents, and the hosts discuss the recommended baseball documentary Alex vs. A-Rod. Finally, they lament the state of classic rock tours, where legendary bands like Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd are essentially cover bands touring without their original members.

This final segment brings together analysis of the legal case against Luigi Mangione, a detailed critique of the Dallas Cowboys, and an in-depth discussion about the new University of Arkansas (U of A) football coach, Ryan Silverfield, before wrapping up with basketball and upcoming college football championship games. The host and Professor Robert Steinbach briefly conclude their discussion on the Mangione murder trial and the constitutional debate surrounding the admissibility of the 3D-printed gun found in his backpack. The conversation then pivots to the host's disappointment with the Dallas Cowboys, calling them "choke" artists and noting it's been 30 years since their last Super Bowl. He suggests a parallel downfall for the Kansas City Chiefs following the high-profile relationship between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. The core of the segment is dedicated to the hiring of Ryan Silverfield as the new U of A head football coach. The host expresses cautious optimism, noting Silverfield's five-year, $33.5 million incentive-based contract (at $6.7 million/year). He acknowledges the fan base's "apathy" stems from a lack of trust in Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek following the messy coaching search and previous failed hires like Chad Morris. The host believes the coaching landscape was controlled by Lane Kiffin's decision, which dictated other SEC hires. He praises Silverfield for immediately diving into recruiting, successfully retaining two key players (Quincy Rhodes and KJ Jackson), and his neurotic initiative (like changing light bulbs in the facilities). Ultimately, the host encourages fans to give Silverfield a chance, noting that anything better than a 3-9 or 4-8 finish will be considered a success, given the challenging SEC schedule (the release date of which is noted as December 10th). Finally, the discussion shifts to basketball, where the Razorbacks recently lost to Michigan State and Duke. The host strongly criticizes NCAA officials for allowing certain uncalled fouls, specifically mentioning Duke's Boozer and the "chicken wing" and "kick out" moves by shooters. Looking ahead, the hosts anticipate the upcoming conference championship games, particularly the Big Ten Championship game between #1 Ohio State and #2 Indiana, calling it the "game" of the weekend with major playoff implications.

The first half focuses on the Luigi Mangione murder trial and the defense's attempt to use a Motion in Limine (pre-trial hearing) to suppress key evidence—a 3D-printed gun found in the defendant's backpack upon arrest. Steinbach explains that evidence can be excluded for three main reasons: preventing jury bias, ensuring evidence competency (authenticity), or for Constitutional Protection (the focus here). The defense is arguing for suppression because the evidence was allegedly obtained via an illegal search and seizure (a Fourth Amendment violation), not a Miranda rights violation. The discussion clarifies that the core legal question is at what point the police interacted with the suspect, determining their right to search the bag. Steinbach and the host debate the ethical role of a defense attorney, concluding that their primary duty is to secure the best outcome for the client, even if it means using legal mechanisms (like the Exclusionary Rule, a product of the Warren Court) to protect the system itself, accepting the risk that a guilty person might walk free (Double Jeopardy is also briefly addressed). The second half transitions to a column Steinbach wrote concerning the King Fahd Center for Middle Eastern Studies (KFC) at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. Steinbach claims the center operates as "indoctrination propaganda," citing its founding via a $20 million Saudi donation during the Clinton era. He points to overwhelming bias in the curriculum, which features zero classes on Christianity or Judaism, while a professor equated the Israeli perspective with the KKK and posted calls for Israel's elimination ("Palestine River to the sea"). Steinbach criticizes the Center's head for attempting to block a transparency request from State Senator Dan Sullivan for class syllabi, arguing that as a public institution, it must be accountable for its teaching.

This segment opens with major entertainment news: Netflix agreed to buy Warner Brothers Discovery in a deal valued at $\$72$ billion (enterprise value of $\$82.7$ billion). The acquisition will give Netflix control of Warner Brothers' Discovery Film and Television Studios and HBO Max, adding massive franchises like Game of Thrones, The Big Bang Theory, and the DC Universe to its portfolio. The host then pivots to commentary inspired by Discovery shows, discussing the unexplored nature of Papua New Guinea, the prevalence of large spiders there, and the origin of the mermaid myth from sightings of manatees. A significant portion of the segment is dedicated to the upcoming legal analysis with guest Robert Steinbach (Law Professor at UALR Bowen School of Law). The topic of discussion is the pre-trial hearings for murder suspect Luigi Mangione, who allegedly shot a healthcare CEO in the back. The host expresses disbelief at the public support for Mangione, drawing a parallel to the "mass craziness" surrounding Charles Manson in the 70s. The specific legal issue is whether evidence found in Mangione's backpack—including a 3D-printed gun and a laptop—when he was arrested at a McDonald's should be admissible at trial, as his defense argues he had not yet been read his Miranda rights. The host questions why a warrant or Miranda rights would be needed to search the belongings of a fugitive murder suspect upon capture. The host closes with a discussion on the PI Roofing general contracting services.

The final hour begins with an update on the Venezuela crisis and President Trump's hardline approach against Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. has labeled a narco-trafficker. Analysts suggest that if Trump orders a military strike, Maduro would be isolated, as Russia and China are unlikely to intervene militarily, preferring a "war of words." The host reports that Trump allegedly gave Maduro an ultimatum: resign immediately in exchange for the safety of his family, or face the consequences. This posture is linked to the administration's broader crusade against drugs, which has involved over 20 strikes against alleged narco boats in Latin American waters.   The host shifts to domestic politics, discussing the "Back the Blue Act," proposed by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and backed by 31 Republican senators. The bill aims to create a new federal crime for targeting law enforcement officers, potentially subjecting murderers to the death penalty and mandatory 30 years in prison. The host, however, questions the need for new laws, advocating for enforcing existing ones, and reads listener feedback expressing fear that the bill could embolden bad actors within law enforcement and infringe on citizens' Fourth Amendment and self-defense rights, especially concerning controversial "no-knock" warrants. The segment also features a report on a British IT consultant who was arrested twice and charged with a public order offense for simply posting photos of himself holding a shotgun while visiting the U.S. Finally, the host mentions upcoming weekend sports (SEC and Big Ten football championships) and a brief story about actress Halle Berry criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing a menopause bill.

The segment begins by celebrating a newfound affordability in the economy, noting that gas prices have fallen significantly. The host calculates that dropping from $\$2.75$ to $\$2.35$ per gallon (using a 13.5-gallon tank) results in a monthly savings of over $\$225$ for a consumer filling up twice a week. The conversation shifts to a serious security threat: the arrest of Lugman Khan, a Pakistani immigrant and University of Delaware student, who was allegedly planning a mass shooting on campus. Authorities found a Glock pistol converted into a semi-automatic rifle, 27-round magazines, and body armor. The host emphasizes that Khan's manifesto, which included the phrase "kill all martyrdom," was referencing the Islamic sense of martyrdom—dying while killing infidels—not the general definition. The discussion expands on the threat of radical Islamism, with the host citing Senator Marco Rubio and historical context from the Crusades to highlight the movement's revolutionary nature and goal of global dominion. Specific concerns are raised about demographic changes in Europe due to immigration and higher birth rates among Islamists, pointing to "no-go zones" in cities like Paris. Finally, the segment closes with breaking news: the FBI has arrested Brian Cole in Virginia, a suspect in the January 5, 2021, pipe bomb case outside the DNC and RNC headquarters in Washington, D.C., ending a nearly five-year investigation.

The second hour features David Fisher discussing the dire financial state of the U.S. government. The October budget deficit hit a historic high of $\$285$ billion in one month, potentially pushing the annual deficit well over $\$3$ trillion. Despite a $24\%$ increase in tax revenue, spending rose by $18\%$, confirming the U.S. has a severe spending problem and is a "financial alcoholic." Critically, $24$ cents of every dollar collected goes just to interest on the national debt. Fisher links this financial calamity to the massive rise in gold and silver (up $61\%$ and $96\%$ year-to-date, respectively) and forecasts the Federal Reserve will resume Quantitative Easing (QE), which will further depress the dollar but fuel a multi-year bull market in precious metals. The main focus then shifts to Fisher's new free white paper, "The Golden Era That Has a Silver Lining," which posits that President Trump may revalue gold and re-back the U.S. dollar with gold to gain control of the Federal Reserve. Fisher argues this "out-of-the-box" fix is the likely path, potentially setting gold's value significantly higher than its current price. The final segment is a lighter yet philosophical discussion about the simple habit of pushing your chair back in under a table. Drawing on a report, the host explains that this small action is indicative of a person's character, suggesting they are naturally considerate, value order, finish what they start, and live with intentionality. The host concludes by describing upcoming entertainment segments, including a look at year-end movies and a new Prime science fiction dark comedy about an alien signal that makes humanity docile