Harry Reid endorses Paul Ryan as Speaker of the House

October 22, 2015

Editor

Glenn took to radio Thursday to express how far the House of Representatives has gone to the point they no longer represent anybody.

When all the people you don't like support someone, you have to pause for a second before supporting him yourself.

So what about Paul Ryan?

For starters, take a look at who apparently loves him: John Boehner, Mitt Romney, Jeb Bush, Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi.

Harry Reid came out with a full-on endorsement of Paul Ryan as Speaker of the House.

Glenn presented a sampling of policies Ryan has aligned himself with.

"He voted for Medicare Part D - socialist. No Child Left Behind - led to Common Core," Glenn said. He hasn't met a bailout he didn't like. He voted for TARP."

Then quoting Ryan, "This bill offends my principles, but I'm going to vote for this bill in order to preserve my principles."

Glenn continued.

"He was the architect of and voted for a budget that blew through spending caps. He's consistent voting to raise the debt ceiling, multiple votes. He is consistent with multiple votes on farm bills. The bloated highway bill, multiple votes. He voted against the Amash Amendment to end the NSA domestic surveillance. The fiscal cliff deal, which allowed all the tax hikes, he was for it. Remember those? He was for it. Now, are those your principles?" Glenn said.

Listen to the full segment or read the transcript below.

Below is a rush transcript of this segment, it might contain errors.

GLENN: If there was criminal activity, they need to go to jail. No matter who they are. Republican, Democrat. I don't care if it was Ronald Reagan. You lie, you cheat, you steal, you go to jail. Period.

This is nothing, but -- all the world is but a stage, and we are merely its players. The House of Representatives no longer represents anybody. They represent the party.

Last night, they paved the way for Paul Ryan to become the Speaker of the House. The Freedom Caucus paved the way for Paul Ryan to become the Speaker of the House. Now, let me share a real good testimony here for Paul Ryan because he's -- he's -- he's almost universally loved

PAT: Yeah, everybody else is saying, "This is a great choice. Paul Ryan is a great choice."

GLENN: Yeah, he's a great choice. In fact, let me just play one of the big endorsements here from Harry Reid.

HARRY: I'm a Paul Ryan fan. I don't agree with him on much of what he does. I think what he's done with Medicare and Medicaid, what he's wanted to do, I disagree with. But generally speaking, I think that he's been -- we've been able to work with him as so.

GLENN: Oh, I'm sure you could.

HARRY: -- Senator Murray just a few minutes ago.

PAT: Yeah, they could work with him. Why? Because he caves in. He caves. The Republicans never press the advantage that they have. And they have a advantage right now.

GLENN: No. They never play offense. It's always defense. Always. Always. Always.

PAT: And they don't even do that well.

GLENN: And Paul Ryan is the Mitt Romney pick. The G.O.P. is being run right now by Mitt Romney.

Here's the thing, you took John Boehner out. Now we're in the middle of the fight. And the guys that we have fighting with our names on the back, they're weasels. They're chickens. They don't have enough -- they don't have any spine in them. I don't know if it's their lack of faith in God, their lack of faith in Divine Providence, their lack of faith in the Constitution, their lack of faith in the American people, I don't know what it is. Maybe it's just that they are already intoxicated with power. It doesn't take long to become intoxicated with power. There were five people. Five people that promised that -- they promised their constituents, you elect me, and I will vote against John Boehner. You elect me, and I will vote -- my first freshman vote, I will vote against John Boehner. They were elected. Out of those five, one had a spine. One.

Gary Palmer from Alabama. One.

There was six of them. Not five. The five of them turned their backs. Who are they? Alex Mooney from West Virginia, lied. Mark Walker, lied. Jody Hice, lied. Barry Loudermilk, lied. John Ratcliffe, lied.

Those guys came to you and said, "This is not the senators. This is the House of Representatives. This is the people's House. This is the one that is supposed to be just like you. The one where you're supposed to be able to have your voice heard." Do you feel your voice is being heard by the people who have lied to you?

You want to know why -- why Donald Trump is winning and why people in the freaking Tea Party are backing him? Do you know why that's happening? Because they are righteously tired of it. They have righteous indignation. They have lost their principles on the Constitution because they want somebody to do something. That's what's happening.

Now, what happens if Donald Trump doesn't win? What happens when the G.O.P. refuses to listen and represent the people? You will get someone far worse than Donald Trump. Because I got news for you, anybody who is supporting Donald Trump, Donald Trump is a big businessman. He plays the game. He bribes his own -- I'm sorry. He makes contributions to anybody on any side because he'll get the job done. The job he wants to get done.

When that man gets in, you will be betrayed again because he's a businessman. And the one who wins is Donald Trump.

You think that man has principles? What are the principles, besides Donald Trump? Certainly not the Constitution because he'll take your land, he will take your house, to be able to build a limousine parking lot on it. Those are not the principles of the Tea Party. So why is the Tea Party standing -- 20 percent of the Tea Party standing for him?

Because they're angry. Because they can't trust anyone. And so they go to a demagogue.

This is how Hitler gets elected. Everybody is so tired of it, they will just listen to the strong man who will just get it done.

And if you think that that can't happen in America, if you're toying with Donald Trump, look at -- look at what you already have in office. A guy who doesn't care. Now the Republicans are upping the ante. Now they've got Donald Trump.

What's after Donald Trump? Good news, we've got Kanye West in 2020. You're completely unhinged from any principles. And it's happening because the G.O.P. is betraying the people.

So why not Paul Ryan? Well, he voted for Medicare Part D, socialist. No Child Left Behind. Led to Common Core. He hasn't -- he hasn't met a bailout he didn't like. He voted for TARP. "This bill offends my principles, but I'm going to vote for this bill." Quote, "This bill offends my principles, but I'm going to vote for this bill in order to preserve my principles." Wait. Excuse me, what?

PAT: That's the George Bush one -- I'm -- principles to save them.

GLENN: Can I tell you something? Honey, having sex with that prostitute violated all of my principles, but I did it to save our marriage.

PAT: Same thing.

GLENN: Oh, okay. I get it. Sure. He was the architect of and voted for a budget that blew through spending caps. He's consistent voting to raise the debt ceiling, multiple votes. He is consistent with multiple votes on farm bills. The bloated highway bill, multiple votes. He voted against the Amash Amendment to end the NSA domestic surveillance. The fiscal cliff deal, which allowed all the tax hikes, he was for it. Remember those? He was for it. Now, are those your principles?

PAT: Check into immigration. So many people that love Trump love his immigration -- look at Paul Ryan's stance on immigration and amnesty.

GLENN: John Boehner, Mitt Romney, all of it -- Jeb Bush, all the people that you say you don't want love Paul Ryan. Love Paul Ryan.

PAT: Barack Obama loves Paul Ryan.

GLENN: Harry Reid. Nancy Pelosi love Paul Ryan.

Now, listen, I am really upset today. And here's why: I'm upset -- and excuse my language -- at the bastards that came to me and said to me, "Glenn, I want you to know -- and God is my witness -- or in this case, it's Pat.

PAT: Yeah. I was a little uncomfortable with you putting me as God.

GLENN: We were told -- we were told -- if -- if the wrong person goes into the Speaker of the House, the party is over. The G.O.P. is over. Because what they will do is more of the same stuff. They will disenfranchise the voter more and more. They will jam all of this progressive stuff down the throats of the voter. They will disenfranchise the base.

PAT: Going to lose the presidency.

GLENN: We will then lose the presidency because the voters will say, "What the hell do they even stand for?"

If we don't lose the presidency, you will strengthen people like Donald Trump and anybody who is really angry. Anybody who says, "I'll get it done," and is disconnected from the Constitution because there are no principles anymore.

Now, that is what I was told by several people, one of which is definitely not a guy that you sit around and say, "That guy is a crazy lunatic."

They're serious. Now, am I surprised by the John Boehners of the world? No, of course not. Of course not. The Freedom Caucus, yeah, I am. Yeah, I'm a little -- how dare you.

PAT: Especially when they were so adamant about Daniel Webster. Because of the process. Got to have him. The process restored. Blah. Blah.

GLENN: Got to have him. Got to have him. Have to have him. Here's what I want you to do, and I'm not -- I don't know if this makes any difference at all. They have a vote on October 29th next week. And it will be televised. You'll know exactly who voted what.

Featured Image: Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (R) (D-NV) answers questions after a weekly policy meeting at the U.S. Capitol October 20, 2015 in Washington, DC. Reid indicated he would be in favor of Rep. Paul Ryan (D-WI) becoming the next Speaker of the House during his remarks. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The Woodrow Wilson strategy to get out of Mother’s Day

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I’ve got a potentially helpful revelation that’s gonna blow the lid off your plans for this Sunday. It’s Mother’s Day.

Yeah, that sacred day where you’re guilt-tripped into buying flowers, braving crowded brunch buffets, and pretending you didn’t forget to mail the card. But what if I told you… you don’t have to do it? That’s right, there’s a loophole, a get-out-of-Mother’s-Day-free card, and it’s stamped with the name of none other than… Woodrow Wilson (I hate that guy).

Back in 1914, ol’ Woody Wilson signed a proclamation that officially made Mother’s Day a national holiday. Second Sunday in May, every year. He said it was a day to “publicly express our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” Sounds sweet, right? Until you peel back the curtain.

See, Wilson wasn’t some sentimental guy sitting around knitting doilies for his mom. No, no, no. This was a calculated move.

The idea for Mother’s Day had been floating around for decades, pushed by influential voices like Julia Ward Howe. By 1911, states were jumping on the bandwagon, but it took Wilson to make it federal. Why? Because he was a master of optics. This guy loved big, symbolic gestures to distract from the real stuff he was up to, like, oh, I don’t know, reshaping the entire federal government!

So here’s the deal: if you’re looking for an excuse to skip Mother’s Day, just lean into this. Say, “Sorry, Mom, I’m not celebrating a holiday cooked up by Woodrow Wilson!” I mean, think about it – this is the guy who gave us the Federal Reserve, the income tax, and don’t even get me started on his assault on basic liberties during World War I. You wanna trust THAT guy with your Sunday plans? I don’t think so! You tell your mom, “Look, I love you, but I’m not observing a Progressive holiday. I’m keeping my brunch money in protest.”

Now, I know what you might be thinking.

“Glenn, my mom’s gonna kill me if I try this.” Fair point. Moms can be scary. But hear me out: you can spin this. Tell her you’re honoring her EVERY DAY instead of some government-mandated holiday. You don’t need Wilson’s permission to love your mom! You can bake her a cake in June, call her in July, or, here’s a wild idea, visit her WITHOUT a Woodrow Wilson federal proclamation guilting you into it.

Shocking Christian massacres unveiled

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Is a Christian Genocide unfolding overseas?

Recent reports suggest an alarming escalation in violence against Christians, raising questions about whether these acts constitute genocide under international law. Recently, Glenn hosted former U.S. Army Special Forces Sniper Tim Kennedy, who discussed a predictive model that forecasts a surge in global Christian persecution for the summer of 2025.

From Africa to Asia and the Middle East, extreme actions—some described as genocidal—have intensified over the past year. Over 380 million Christians worldwide face high levels of persecution, a number that continues to climb. With rising international concern, the United Nations and human rights groups are urging protective measures by the global community. Is a Christian genocide being waged in the far corners of the globe? Where are they taking place, and what is being done?

India: Hindu Extremist Violence Escalates

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In India, attacks on Christians have surged as Hindu extremist groups gain influence within the country. In February 2025, Hindu nationalist leader Aadesh Soni organized a 50,000-person rally in Chhattisgarh, where he called for the rape and murder of all Christians in nearby villages and demanded the execution of Christian leaders to erase Christianity. Other incidents include forced conversions, such as a June 2024 attack in Chhattisgarh, where a Hindu mob gave Christian families a 10-day ultimatum to convert to Hinduism. In December 2024, a Christian man in Uttar Pradesh was attacked, forcibly converted, and paraded while the mob chanted "Death to Jesus."

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommends designating India a "Country of Particular Concern" and imposing targeted sanctions on those perpetrating these attacks. The international community is increasingly alarmed by the rising tide of religious violence in India.

Syria: Sectarian Violence Post-Regime Change

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Following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024, Syria has seen a wave of sectarian violence targeting religious minorities, including Christians, with over 1,000 killed in early 2025. It remains unclear whether Christians are deliberately targeted or caught in broader conflicts, but many fear persecution by the new regime or extremist groups. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a dominant rebel group and known al-Qaeda splinter group now in power, is known for anti-Christian sentiments, heightening fears of increased persecution.

Christians, especially converts from Islam, face severe risks in the unstable post-regime environment. The international community is calling for humanitarian aid and protection for Syria’s vulnerable minority communities.

Democratic Republic of Congo: A "Silent Genocide"

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In February 2025, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an ISIS-affiliated group, beheaded 70 Christians—men, women, and children—in a Protestant church in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, after tying their hands. This horrific massacre, described as a "silent genocide" reminiscent of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, has shocked the global community.

Since 1996, the ADF and other militias have killed over six million people, with Christians frequently targeted. A Christmas 2024 attack killed 46, further decimating churches in the region. With violence escalating, humanitarian organizations are urging immediate international intervention to address the crisis.

POLL: Starbase exposed: Musk’s vision or corporate takeover?

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Is Starbase the future of innovation or a step too far?

Elon Musk’s ambitious Starbase project in South Texas is reshaping Boca Chica into a cutting-edge hub for SpaceX’s Starship program, promising thousands of jobs and a leap toward Mars colonization. Supporters see Musk as a visionary, driving economic growth and innovation in a historically underserved region. However, local critics, including Brownsville residents and activists, argue that SpaceX’s presence raises rents, restricts beach access, and threatens environmental harm, with Starbase’s potential incorporation as a city sparking fears of unchecked corporate control. As pro-Musk advocates clash with anti-Musk skeptics, will Starbase unite the community or deepen the divide?

Let us know what you think in the poll below:

Is Starbase’s development a big win for South Texas?

Should Starbase become its own city?

Is Elon Musk’s vision more of a benefit than a burden for the region?

Shocking truth behind Trump-Zelenskyy mineral deal unveiled

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President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have finalized a landmark agreement that will shape the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. The agreement focuses on mineral access and war recovery.

After a tense March meeting, Trump and Zelenskyy signed a deal on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, granting the U.S. preferential mineral rights in Ukraine in exchange for continued military support. Glenn analyzed an earlier version of the agreement in March, when Zelenskyy rejected it, highlighting its potential benefits for America, Ukraine, and Europe. Glenn praised the deal’s strategic alignment with U.S. interests, including reducing reliance on China for critical minerals and fostering regional peace.

However, the agreement signed this week differs from the March proposal Glenn praised. Negotiations led to significant revisions, reflecting compromises on both sides. What changes were made? What did each leader seek, and what did they achieve? How will this deal impact the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and global geopolitics? Below, we break down the key aspects of the agreement.

What did Trump want?

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Trump aimed to curb what many perceive as Ukraine’s overreliance on U.S. aid while securing strategic advantages for America. His primary goals included obtaining reimbursement for the billions in military aid provided to Ukraine, gaining exclusive access to Ukraine’s valuable minerals (such as titanium, uranium, and lithium), and reducing Western dependence on China for critical resources. These minerals are essential for aerospace, energy, and technology sectors, and Trump saw their acquisition as a way to bolster U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. Additionally, he sought to advance peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, positioning the U.S. as a key mediator.

Ultimately, Trump secured preferential—but not exclusive—rights to extract Ukraine’s minerals through the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, as outlined in the agreement. The U.S. will not receive reimbursement for past aid, but future military contributions will count toward the joint fund, designed to support Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace negotiations under U.S. leadership aligns with Trump’s goal of resolving the conflict, giving him leverage in discussions with Russia.

These outcomes partially meet Trump’s objectives. The preferential mineral rights strengthen U.S. access to critical resources, but the lack of exclusivity and reimbursement limits the deal’s financial benefits. The peace commitment, however, positions Trump as a central figure in shaping the war’s resolution, potentially enhancing his diplomatic influence.

What did Zelenskyy want?

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Zelenskyy sought to sustain U.S. military and economic support without the burden of repaying past aid, which has been critical for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. He also prioritized reconstruction funds to rebuild Ukraine’s war-torn economy and infrastructure. Security guarantees from the U.S. to deter future Russian aggression were a key demand, though controversial, as they risked entangling America in long-term commitments. Additionally, Zelenskyy aimed to retain control over Ukraine’s mineral wealth to safeguard national sovereignty and align with the country’s European Union membership aspirations.

The final deal delivered several of Zelenskyy’s priorities. The reconstruction fund, supported by future U.S. aid, provides a financial lifeline for Ukraine’s recovery without requiring repayment of past assistance. Ukraine retained ownership of its subsoil and decision-making authority over mineral extraction, granting only preferential access to the U.S. However, Zelenskyy conceded on security guarantees, a significant compromise, and agreed to pursue peace talks under Trump’s leadership, which may involve territorial or political concessions to Russia.

Zelenskyy’s outcomes reflect a delicate balance. The reconstruction fund and retained mineral control bolster Ukraine’s economic and sovereign interests, but the absence of security guarantees and pressure to negotiate peace could strain domestic support and challenge Ukraine’s long-term stability.

What does this mean for the future?

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While Trump didn’t secure all his demands, the deal advances several of his broader strategic goals. By gaining access to Ukraine’s mineral riches, the U.S. undermines China’s dominance over critical elements like lithium and graphite, essential for technology and energy industries. This shift reduces American and European dependence on Chinese supply chains, strengthening Western industrial and tech sectors. Most significantly, the agreement marks a pivotal step toward peace in Europe. Ending the Russia-Ukraine war, which has claimed thousands of lives, is a top priority for Trump, and Zelenskyy’s commitment to U.S.-led peace talks enhances Trump’s leverage in negotiations with Russia. Notably, the deal avoids binding U.S. commitments to Ukraine’s long-term defense, preserving flexibility for future administrations.

The deal’s broader implications align with the vision Glenn outlined in March, when he praised its potential to benefit America, Ukraine, and Europe by securing resources and creating peace. While the final agreement differs from Glenn's hopes, it still achieves key goals he outlined.

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