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Trump Venezuela Oil Deal, US & Iran Renew Strikes, House Back From Recess

Aug 31, 2026 · 13m

Summary

This episode covers a US-Venezuela oil deal that prioritizes energy access over democratic transition, escalating US-Iran military clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, and Congress passing a stopgap funding bill to avoid a shutdown before midterms. It also highlights Republican struggles with high inflation and an unpopular president, plus a feature on Shabazz the Disciple discussing Black roots in country music.

Topics discussed

Intro: US-Venezuela oil deal, Iran conflict, and government funding Details of the US-Venezuela oil joint venture Democracy concerns and political risks of the Venezuela deal US and Iran resume attacks in the Strait of Hormuz Escalation risks and Iran's worsening economic situation House returns to pass stopgap government funding bill Censure resolution against Rep. Chuck Edwards GOP midterm messaging challenges and redistricting Sunday Story preview: Shabuzi on black roots of country music
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