https://simplecast.com Straight to The Point With Catherine Herridge Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today. en Fri, 29 May 2026 19:19:06 +0000 Fri, 29 May 2026 19:19:16 +0000 https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com Straight to The Point With Catherine Herridge https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/820742b7-0847-4208-acff-e6469781da1a/21c19cac-56e0-4e45-8b66-a07356726cf9/3000x3000/sttp-key-art-2026.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com episodic Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today. L.A. Times Studios, Catherine Herridge false https://feeds.simplecast.com/fh3lrcMV darius derakshan darius.derakshan@latimes.com 3261077b-b7fd-424d-a684-db1948004bc2 Judicial Watch Sues Intel Agencies Over DEW Records This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with Chris Farrell, Director of Investigations and Research at Judicial Watch for an in-depth interview on the organization’s new Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the DOJ/FBI,CIA, DoD, Homeland Security and ODNI for Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) records including the reported purchase of a device by Homeland Security Investigations. Farrell says the intelligence agencies are “stonewalling” the release of information related to Judicial Watch’s February 2026 FOIA requests that followed our team's exclusive investigations with DEW attack survivors. Farrell argues their non-response, combined with years of reported gaslighting of injured government employees and civilians could reveal a coordinated effort to conceal the truth of directed energy weapon attacks – also known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs) - including questions about foreign technology and why some government personnel may have been returned to the same high-risk locations after being hit. An ODNI Spokesperson said “As DNI Gabbard told Chairman Crawford during the Annual Threat Assessment hearing in March, she believes the Biden-era ICA on AHIs should be retracted.” Asked if Gabbard would make unclassified reports public before she leaves, an ODNI official said “She is actively working to declassify information about the COVID-19 pandemic and Anomalous Health Incidents before June 30.” Asked about alleged CIA spying on Gabbard’s investigative team, an ODNI official said, “We have confirmed that the Intelligence Community Inspector General is aware of the allegations and is working, alongside ODNI and interagency partners, to uncover the truth about any potential wrongdoing.” A CIA official said the Agency “has been and will continue to be supportive of any IG investigation into past conduct by the CIA on this issue.” The CIA official also disputed allegations that the Agency had frustrated the investigation by DNI Gabbard’s team: "CIA worked to provide the DIG with access to information responsive to the Executive Orders prior to its disbandment by the DNI.” On AHIs or Havana Syndrome, the CIA official said the CIA Director “...has been clear, including in sworn testimony before Congress, that CIA defers to ODNI leading an interagency analytic review of AHIs.”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 19:19:06 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/judicial-watch-sues-intel-agencies-over-dew-records-zIfJkNuI This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with Chris Farrell, Director of Investigations and Research at Judicial Watch for an in-depth interview on the organization’s new Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the DOJ/FBI,CIA, DoD, Homeland Security and ODNI for Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) records including the reported purchase of a device by Homeland Security Investigations. Farrell says the intelligence agencies are “stonewalling” the release of information related to Judicial Watch’s February 2026 FOIA requests that followed our team's exclusive investigations with DEW attack survivors. Farrell argues their non-response, combined with years of reported gaslighting of injured government employees and civilians could reveal a coordinated effort to conceal the truth of directed energy weapon attacks – also known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs) - including questions about foreign technology and why some government personnel may have been returned to the same high-risk locations after being hit. An ODNI Spokesperson said “As DNI Gabbard told Chairman Crawford during the Annual Threat Assessment hearing in March, she believes the Biden-era ICA on AHIs should be retracted.” Asked if Gabbard would make unclassified reports public before she leaves, an ODNI official said “She is actively working to declassify information about the COVID-19 pandemic and Anomalous Health Incidents before June 30.” Asked about alleged CIA spying on Gabbard’s investigative team, an ODNI official said, “We have confirmed that the Intelligence Community Inspector General is aware of the allegations and is working, alongside ODNI and interagency partners, to uncover the truth about any potential wrongdoing.” A CIA official said the Agency “has been and will continue to be supportive of any IG investigation into past conduct by the CIA on this issue.” The CIA official also disputed allegations that the Agency had frustrated the investigation by DNI Gabbard’s team: "CIA worked to provide the DIG with access to information responsive to the Executive Orders prior to its disbandment by the DNI.” On AHIs or Havana Syndrome, the CIA official said the CIA Director “...has been clear, including in sworn testimony before Congress, that CIA defers to ODNI leading an interagency analytic review of AHIs.”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Judicial Watch Sues Intel Agencies Over DEW Records darius derakshan 00:18:23 This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with Chris Farrell, Director of Investigations and Research at Judicial Watch for an in-depth interview on the organization’s new Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the DOJ/FBI,CIA, DoD, Homeland Security and ODNI for Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) records including the reported purchase of a device by Homeland Security Investigations. Farrell says the intelligence agencies are “stonewalling” the release of information related to Judicial Watch’s February 2026 FOIA requests that followed our team's exclusive investigations with DEW attack survivors. Farrell argues their non-response, combined with years of reported gaslighting of injured government employees and civilians could reveal a coordinated effort to conceal the truth of directed energy weapon attacks – also known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs) - including questions about foreign technology and why some government personnel may have been returned to the same high-risk locations after being hit. An ODNI Spokesperson said “As DNI Gabbard told Chairman Crawford during the Annual Threat Assessment hearing in March, she believes the Biden-era ICA on AHIs should be retracted.” Asked if Gabbard would make unclassified reports public before she leaves, an ODNI official said “She is actively working to declassify information about the COVID-19 pandemic and Anomalous Health Incidents before June 30.” Asked about alleged CIA spying on Gabbard’s investigative team, an ODNI official said, “We have confirmed that the Intelligence Community Inspector General is aware of the allegations and is working, alongside ODNI and interagency partners, to uncover the truth about any potential wrongdoing.” A CIA official said the Agency “has been and will continue to be supportive of any IG investigation into past conduct by the CIA on this issue.” The CIA official also disputed allegations that the Agency had frustrated the investigation by DNI Gabbard’s team: "CIA worked to provide the DIG with access to information responsive to the Executive Orders prior to its disbandment by the DNI.” On AHIs or Havana Syndrome, the CIA official said the CIA Director “...has been clear, including in sworn testimony before Congress, that CIA defers to ODNI leading an interagency analytic review of AHIs.” This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with Chris Farrell, Director of Investigations and Research at Judicial Watch for an in-depth interview on the organization’s new Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the DOJ/FBI,CIA, DoD, Homeland Security and ODNI for Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) records including the reported purchase of a device by Homeland Security Investigations. Farrell says the intelligence agencies are “stonewalling” the release of information related to Judicial Watch’s February 2026 FOIA requests that followed our team's exclusive investigations with DEW attack survivors. Farrell argues their non-response, combined with years of reported gaslighting of injured government employees and civilians could reveal a coordinated effort to conceal the truth of directed energy weapon attacks – also known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs) - including questions about foreign technology and why some government personnel may have been returned to the same high-risk locations after being hit. An ODNI Spokesperson said “As DNI Gabbard told Chairman Crawford during the Annual Threat Assessment hearing in March, she believes the Biden-era ICA on AHIs should be retracted.” Asked if Gabbard would make unclassified reports public before she leaves, an ODNI official said “She is actively working to declassify information about the COVID-19 pandemic and Anomalous Health Incidents before June 30.” Asked about alleged CIA spying on Gabbard’s investigative team, an ODNI official said, “We have confirmed that the Intelligence Community Inspector General is aware of the allegations and is working, alongside ODNI and interagency partners, to uncover the truth about any potential wrongdoing.” A CIA official said the Agency “has been and will continue to be supportive of any IG investigation into past conduct by the CIA on this issue.” The CIA official also disputed allegations that the Agency had frustrated the investigation by DNI Gabbard’s team: "CIA worked to provide the DIG with access to information responsive to the Executive Orders prior to its disbandment by the DNI.” On AHIs or Havana Syndrome, the CIA official said the CIA Director “...has been clear, including in sworn testimony before Congress, that CIA defers to ODNI leading an interagency analytic review of AHIs.” false full 30 cf7053c8-d96d-409e-a351-bbdf29b70184 Inside the Maduro Raid Part II BREAKING: First Look Inside Maduro Whistleblowers $50 Million Dollar Rewards For Justice Claim; Detailed Source Intelligence Revealed 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Ministry of Defense Bunker Schematics, Armored Convoy Movements & Route Vulnerabilities, Modified Escape Plane Cleared for Turkey, and Venezuelan Military Preparedness For Ground Invasion. This week on Straight to the Point, part II of our exclusive sit down Wesley Tabor and “Mack,” two former DEA operatives with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Based on sworn affidavits, Wesley and Mac activated high level sources within “every node” of the Maduro regime, providing critical intelligence to DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and DELTA that led to the successful capture of the Venezuelan dictator by American authorities. We walk through the actual intelligence packet submitted for their $50 million Rewards for Justice claim. The extraordinary never-before-seen documents include photos and videos of anti-air defenses, schematics for roughly 20 miles of underground tunnels, detailed Ministry of Defense bunker layouts, Maduro’s armored convoy specifics, a modified Embraer aircraft with expanded fuel tanks and clearance to reach Turkey, and more. Now almost five months since the successful raid that captured Nicolás Maduro, the sources who provided this intelligence remain in hiding and under threat while the U.S. government has still given no response on the $50 million reward claim. We reached out to the DEA multiple times. The DEA did not respond to our questions, including allegations DEA Administrator Cole has been “bragging” about taking down Maduro and claiming he was running the sources. A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment. The DOJ has oversight for the DEA. The Rewards for Justice Program confirmed receipt of our questions but did not answer them. TIMECODES: 00:35 Never Before Seen Intelligence From “Every Node” Maduro Regime 02:10 Venezuelan Source Network Hunted Down and Lives at Risk 03:00 Maps, Intelligence Showed Maduro Prepared for US Ground Invasion 04:00 Delta Wanted More Intelligence From Wes an “Mack’s” Sources 05:10 Intelligence Revealed Maduro Missile Batteries/Which Ones Were Not Functional 05:58 Maduro’s 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Rat Lines, Schematics 08:00 Maduro Convoy: Delta Snatch and Grab 10:05 Maduro Escape Plans Reportedly Included Turkey 11:10 Maduro Planes, Including ”Decoy Jet” and Pilots 13:10 Potential Destinations Included Turkey, Cape Verde and Iran 13:40 DEA “Controversy”, Pipeline of Intel Remains Open to Delta 14:55 Maduro’s Spiritual Adviser Identified: Potential Tracking and Surveillance 16:20 Reward Claim Should Be Evaluated and Validated 19:13 New Reporting: DEA Administrator Allegedly Taking Credit For Running the Maduro Sources 19:30 DEA Did Not Answer Our Questions or Address Allegations About the Administrator

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Mon, 18 May 2026 17:40:09 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-maduro-raid-part-ii-2W7LBWYn BREAKING: First Look Inside Maduro Whistleblowers $50 Million Dollar Rewards For Justice Claim; Detailed Source Intelligence Revealed 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Ministry of Defense Bunker Schematics, Armored Convoy Movements & Route Vulnerabilities, Modified Escape Plane Cleared for Turkey, and Venezuelan Military Preparedness For Ground Invasion. This week on Straight to the Point, part II of our exclusive sit down Wesley Tabor and “Mack,” two former DEA operatives with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Based on sworn affidavits, Wesley and Mac activated high level sources within “every node” of the Maduro regime, providing critical intelligence to DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and DELTA that led to the successful capture of the Venezuelan dictator by American authorities. We walk through the actual intelligence packet submitted for their $50 million Rewards for Justice claim. The extraordinary never-before-seen documents include photos and videos of anti-air defenses, schematics for roughly 20 miles of underground tunnels, detailed Ministry of Defense bunker layouts, Maduro’s armored convoy specifics, a modified Embraer aircraft with expanded fuel tanks and clearance to reach Turkey, and more. Now almost five months since the successful raid that captured Nicolás Maduro, the sources who provided this intelligence remain in hiding and under threat while the U.S. government has still given no response on the $50 million reward claim. We reached out to the DEA multiple times. The DEA did not respond to our questions, including allegations DEA Administrator Cole has been “bragging” about taking down Maduro and claiming he was running the sources. A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment. The DOJ has oversight for the DEA. The Rewards for Justice Program confirmed receipt of our questions but did not answer them. TIMECODES: 00:35 Never Before Seen Intelligence From “Every Node” Maduro Regime 02:10 Venezuelan Source Network Hunted Down and Lives at Risk 03:00 Maps, Intelligence Showed Maduro Prepared for US Ground Invasion 04:00 Delta Wanted More Intelligence From Wes an “Mack’s” Sources 05:10 Intelligence Revealed Maduro Missile Batteries/Which Ones Were Not Functional 05:58 Maduro’s 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Rat Lines, Schematics 08:00 Maduro Convoy: Delta Snatch and Grab 10:05 Maduro Escape Plans Reportedly Included Turkey 11:10 Maduro Planes, Including ”Decoy Jet” and Pilots 13:10 Potential Destinations Included Turkey, Cape Verde and Iran 13:40 DEA “Controversy”, Pipeline of Intel Remains Open to Delta 14:55 Maduro’s Spiritual Adviser Identified: Potential Tracking and Surveillance 16:20 Reward Claim Should Be Evaluated and Validated 19:13 New Reporting: DEA Administrator Allegedly Taking Credit For Running the Maduro Sources 19:30 DEA Did Not Answer Our Questions or Address Allegations About the Administrator

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Inside the Maduro Raid Part II darius derakshan 00:21:01 BREAKING: First Look Inside Maduro Whistleblowers $50 Million Dollar Rewards For Justice Claim; Detailed Source Intelligence Revealed 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Ministry of Defense Bunker Schematics, Armored Convoy Movements & Route Vulnerabilities, Modified Escape Plane Cleared for Turkey, and Venezuelan Military Preparedness For Ground Invasion. This week on Straight to the Point, part II of our exclusive sit down Wesley Tabor and “Mack,” two former DEA operatives with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Based on sworn affidavits, Wesley and Mac activated high level sources within “every node” of the Maduro regime, providing critical intelligence to DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and DELTA that led to the successful capture of the Venezuelan dictator by American authorities. We walk through the actual intelligence packet submitted for their $50 million Rewards for Justice claim. The extraordinary never-before-seen documents include photos and videos of anti-air defenses, schematics for roughly 20 miles of underground tunnels, detailed Ministry of Defense bunker layouts, Maduro’s armored convoy specifics, a modified Embraer aircraft with expanded fuel tanks and clearance to reach Turkey, and more. Now almost five months since the successful raid that captured Nicolás Maduro, the sources who provided this intelligence remain in hiding and under threat while the U.S. government has still given no response on the $50 million reward claim. We reached out to the DEA multiple times. The DEA did not respond to our questions, including allegations DEA Administrator Cole has been “bragging” about taking down Maduro and claiming he was running the sources. A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment. The DOJ has oversight for the DEA. The Rewards for Justice Program confirmed receipt of our questions but did not answer them. TIMECODES: 00:35 Never Before Seen Intelligence From “Every Node” Maduro Regime 02:10 Venezuelan Source Network Hunted Down and Lives at Risk 03:00 Maps, Intelligence Showed Maduro Prepared for US Ground Invasion 04:00 Delta Wanted More Intelligence From Wes an “Mack’s” Sources 05:10 Intelligence Revealed Maduro Missile Batteries/Which Ones Were Not Functional 05:58 Maduro’s 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Rat Lines, Schematics 08:00 Maduro Convoy: Delta Snatch and Grab 10:05 Maduro Escape Plans Reportedly Included Turkey 11:10 Maduro Planes, Including ”Decoy Jet” and Pilots 13:10 Potential Destinations Included Turkey, Cape Verde and Iran 13:40 DEA “Controversy”, Pipeline of Intel Remains Open to Delta 14:55 Maduro’s Spiritual Adviser Identified: Potential Tracking and Surveillance 16:20 Reward Claim Should Be Evaluated and Validated 19:13 New Reporting: DEA Administrator Allegedly Taking Credit For Running the Maduro Sources 19:30 DEA Did Not Answer Our Questions or Address Allegations About the Administrator BREAKING: First Look Inside Maduro Whistleblowers $50 Million Dollar Rewards For Justice Claim; Detailed Source Intelligence Revealed 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Ministry of Defense Bunker Schematics, Armored Convoy Movements & Route Vulnerabilities, Modified Escape Plane Cleared for Turkey, and Venezuelan Military Preparedness For Ground Invasion. This week on Straight to the Point, part II of our exclusive sit down Wesley Tabor and “Mack,” two former DEA operatives with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Based on sworn affidavits, Wesley and Mac activated high level sources within “every node” of the Maduro regime, providing critical intelligence to DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and DELTA that led to the successful capture of the Venezuelan dictator by American authorities. We walk through the actual intelligence packet submitted for their $50 million Rewards for Justice claim. The extraordinary never-before-seen documents include photos and videos of anti-air defenses, schematics for roughly 20 miles of underground tunnels, detailed Ministry of Defense bunker layouts, Maduro’s armored convoy specifics, a modified Embraer aircraft with expanded fuel tanks and clearance to reach Turkey, and more. Now almost five months since the successful raid that captured Nicolás Maduro, the sources who provided this intelligence remain in hiding and under threat while the U.S. government has still given no response on the $50 million reward claim. We reached out to the DEA multiple times. The DEA did not respond to our questions, including allegations DEA Administrator Cole has been “bragging” about taking down Maduro and claiming he was running the sources. A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment. The DOJ has oversight for the DEA. The Rewards for Justice Program confirmed receipt of our questions but did not answer them. TIMECODES: 00:35 Never Before Seen Intelligence From “Every Node” Maduro Regime 02:10 Venezuelan Source Network Hunted Down and Lives at Risk 03:00 Maps, Intelligence Showed Maduro Prepared for US Ground Invasion 04:00 Delta Wanted More Intelligence From Wes an “Mack’s” Sources 05:10 Intelligence Revealed Maduro Missile Batteries/Which Ones Were Not Functional 05:58 Maduro’s 20 Miles of Underground Tunnels, Rat Lines, Schematics 08:00 Maduro Convoy: Delta Snatch and Grab 10:05 Maduro Escape Plans Reportedly Included Turkey 11:10 Maduro Planes, Including ”Decoy Jet” and Pilots 13:10 Potential Destinations Included Turkey, Cape Verde and Iran 13:40 DEA “Controversy”, Pipeline of Intel Remains Open to Delta 14:55 Maduro’s Spiritual Adviser Identified: Potential Tracking and Surveillance 16:20 Reward Claim Should Be Evaluated and Validated 19:13 New Reporting: DEA Administrator Allegedly Taking Credit For Running the Maduro Sources 19:30 DEA Did Not Answer Our Questions or Address Allegations About the Administrator false full 29 c6f507ff-b02f-43dd-9263-89f286a5a321 The Grand Conspiracy Against President Trump BREAKING: Former Federal Prosecutor Reveals Obama Prosecution Possible in ‘Grand Conspiracy’ Case Against President Trump; Says James Comey’s “8647” Indictment Will Likely Survive First Amendment Challenges by Defense Under True Threats Doctrine This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with former DOJ official and longtime federal prosecutor Jim Trusty for a wide-ranging interview on the expanding investigations into Obama-era intelligence and law enforcement officials dubbed “The Grand Conspiracy." Trusty identified 18 USC 242 as the leading statute for prosecutions in the alleged ‘grand conspiracy’ against President Trump and discusses how former CIA Director John Brennan’s TV appearances and recently published book might have restarted the statute of limitations. Trusty also addressed James Comey's recent “8647” threat indictment, possible superseding false statements charges, and whether the root of it all was an effort to undermine an incoming President. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ Responding to the NC indictment, former FBI Director Comey said he is still innocent, not afraid, and believes in the independent judiciary. John Brennan has called the investigation politically motivated. Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman has not responded to repeated requests for comment. 00:00 Intro 00:40 Legal Theory Behind “Grand Conspiracy” Against President Trump 01:30 Former CIA Director Brennan Investigation/Indictment 02:15 Florida Courts Are the Battleground 02:52 What is 18 USC 242: Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law 04:30 Brennan Alleged “Abuse of Authority” 2017 Election Interference Report 04:55 Former NSA Director Rogers Critical Witness 05:30 Justice Department Can Get Around Statute of Limitations 06:15 Did Brennan’s TV Appearances, Book “Restart the Clock” on Statute of Limitations? 07:45 Brennan Claims Politically Motivated, Selective Prosecution 09:00 Attorney General Bondi vs Acting Attorney General Blanche 09:40 Comey “Seashell” Indictment Can Survive First Amendment Challenges 11:32 Comey “Forfeiture of Assets” 13:28 Superseding Indictment Comey Case 14:05 Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman Liaison to Media 15:14 FBI Director Patel Declassified FBI Media Leaks Probe Codenamed “Arctic Haze” 16:00 Richman: Potential False Statement to Investigators? 16:50 Violations: Comey Memos About Trump/Russia Collusion Investigations 18:20 Was Comey the Source of Classified Leak? 18:45 President Obama: Trusty “Room for Potential Prosecution” 20:00 Defendants Strategy to Run Out the Clock 21:50 Legitimate Indictments vs. Moral Condemnation 23:10 White House Briefing: Taking the New Media Seat 23:55 Breaking the Legacy Media Hold on Washington DC Reporting

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Mon, 18 May 2026 17:34:10 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/the-grand-conspiracy-against-president-trump-9s_cQhJl-yPDghPJb BREAKING: Former Federal Prosecutor Reveals Obama Prosecution Possible in ‘Grand Conspiracy’ Case Against President Trump; Says James Comey’s “8647” Indictment Will Likely Survive First Amendment Challenges by Defense Under True Threats Doctrine This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with former DOJ official and longtime federal prosecutor Jim Trusty for a wide-ranging interview on the expanding investigations into Obama-era intelligence and law enforcement officials dubbed “The Grand Conspiracy." Trusty identified 18 USC 242 as the leading statute for prosecutions in the alleged ‘grand conspiracy’ against President Trump and discusses how former CIA Director John Brennan’s TV appearances and recently published book might have restarted the statute of limitations. Trusty also addressed James Comey's recent “8647” threat indictment, possible superseding false statements charges, and whether the root of it all was an effort to undermine an incoming President. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ Responding to the NC indictment, former FBI Director Comey said he is still innocent, not afraid, and believes in the independent judiciary. John Brennan has called the investigation politically motivated. Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman has not responded to repeated requests for comment. 00:00 Intro 00:40 Legal Theory Behind “Grand Conspiracy” Against President Trump 01:30 Former CIA Director Brennan Investigation/Indictment 02:15 Florida Courts Are the Battleground 02:52 What is 18 USC 242: Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law 04:30 Brennan Alleged “Abuse of Authority” 2017 Election Interference Report 04:55 Former NSA Director Rogers Critical Witness 05:30 Justice Department Can Get Around Statute of Limitations 06:15 Did Brennan’s TV Appearances, Book “Restart the Clock” on Statute of Limitations? 07:45 Brennan Claims Politically Motivated, Selective Prosecution 09:00 Attorney General Bondi vs Acting Attorney General Blanche 09:40 Comey “Seashell” Indictment Can Survive First Amendment Challenges 11:32 Comey “Forfeiture of Assets” 13:28 Superseding Indictment Comey Case 14:05 Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman Liaison to Media 15:14 FBI Director Patel Declassified FBI Media Leaks Probe Codenamed “Arctic Haze” 16:00 Richman: Potential False Statement to Investigators? 16:50 Violations: Comey Memos About Trump/Russia Collusion Investigations 18:20 Was Comey the Source of Classified Leak? 18:45 President Obama: Trusty “Room for Potential Prosecution” 20:00 Defendants Strategy to Run Out the Clock 21:50 Legitimate Indictments vs. Moral Condemnation 23:10 White House Briefing: Taking the New Media Seat 23:55 Breaking the Legacy Media Hold on Washington DC Reporting

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> The Grand Conspiracy Against President Trump darius derakshan 00:25:42 BREAKING: Former Federal Prosecutor Reveals Obama Prosecution Possible in ‘Grand Conspiracy’ Case Against President Trump; Says James Comey’s “8647” Indictment Will Likely Survive First Amendment Challenges by Defense Under True Threats Doctrine This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with former DOJ official and longtime federal prosecutor Jim Trusty for a wide-ranging interview on the expanding investigations into Obama-era intelligence and law enforcement officials dubbed “The Grand Conspiracy." Trusty identified 18 USC 242 as the leading statute for prosecutions in the alleged ‘grand conspiracy’ against President Trump and discusses how former CIA Director John Brennan’s TV appearances and recently published book might have restarted the statute of limitations. Trusty also addressed James Comey's recent “8647” threat indictment, possible superseding false statements charges, and whether the root of it all was an effort to undermine an incoming President. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ Responding to the NC indictment, former FBI Director Comey said he is still innocent, not afraid, and believes in the independent judiciary. John Brennan has called the investigation politically motivated. Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman has not responded to repeated requests for comment. 00:00 Intro 00:40 Legal Theory Behind “Grand Conspiracy” Against President Trump 01:30 Former CIA Director Brennan Investigation/Indictment 02:15 Florida Courts Are the Battleground 02:52 What is 18 USC 242: Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law 04:30 Brennan Alleged “Abuse of Authority” 2017 Election Interference Report 04:55 Former NSA Director Rogers Critical Witness 05:30 Justice Department Can Get Around Statute of Limitations 06:15 Did Brennan’s TV Appearances, Book “Restart the Clock” on Statute of Limitations? 07:45 Brennan Claims Politically Motivated, Selective Prosecution 09:00 Attorney General Bondi vs Acting Attorney General Blanche 09:40 Comey “Seashell” Indictment Can Survive First Amendment Challenges 11:32 Comey “Forfeiture of Assets” 13:28 Superseding Indictment Comey Case 14:05 Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman Liaison to Media 15:14 FBI Director Patel Declassified FBI Media Leaks Probe Codenamed “Arctic Haze” 16:00 Richman: Potential False Statement to Investigators? 16:50 Violations: Comey Memos About Trump/Russia Collusion Investigations 18:20 Was Comey the Source of Classified Leak? 18:45 President Obama: Trusty “Room for Potential Prosecution” 20:00 Defendants Strategy to Run Out the Clock 21:50 Legitimate Indictments vs. Moral Condemnation 23:10 White House Briefing: Taking the New Media Seat 23:55 Breaking the Legacy Media Hold on Washington DC Reporting BREAKING: Former Federal Prosecutor Reveals Obama Prosecution Possible in ‘Grand Conspiracy’ Case Against President Trump; Says James Comey’s “8647” Indictment Will Likely Survive First Amendment Challenges by Defense Under True Threats Doctrine This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down with former DOJ official and longtime federal prosecutor Jim Trusty for a wide-ranging interview on the expanding investigations into Obama-era intelligence and law enforcement officials dubbed “The Grand Conspiracy." Trusty identified 18 USC 242 as the leading statute for prosecutions in the alleged ‘grand conspiracy’ against President Trump and discusses how former CIA Director John Brennan’s TV appearances and recently published book might have restarted the statute of limitations. Trusty also addressed James Comey's recent “8647” threat indictment, possible superseding false statements charges, and whether the root of it all was an effort to undermine an incoming President. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ Responding to the NC indictment, former FBI Director Comey said he is still innocent, not afraid, and believes in the independent judiciary. John Brennan has called the investigation politically motivated. Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman has not responded to repeated requests for comment. 00:00 Intro 00:40 Legal Theory Behind “Grand Conspiracy” Against President Trump 01:30 Former CIA Director Brennan Investigation/Indictment 02:15 Florida Courts Are the Battleground 02:52 What is 18 USC 242: Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law 04:30 Brennan Alleged “Abuse of Authority” 2017 Election Interference Report 04:55 Former NSA Director Rogers Critical Witness 05:30 Justice Department Can Get Around Statute of Limitations 06:15 Did Brennan’s TV Appearances, Book “Restart the Clock” on Statute of Limitations? 07:45 Brennan Claims Politically Motivated, Selective Prosecution 09:00 Attorney General Bondi vs Acting Attorney General Blanche 09:40 Comey “Seashell” Indictment Can Survive First Amendment Challenges 11:32 Comey “Forfeiture of Assets” 13:28 Superseding Indictment Comey Case 14:05 Columbia Law School Professor Daniel Richman Liaison to Media 15:14 FBI Director Patel Declassified FBI Media Leaks Probe Codenamed “Arctic Haze” 16:00 Richman: Potential False Statement to Investigators? 16:50 Violations: Comey Memos About Trump/Russia Collusion Investigations 18:20 Was Comey the Source of Classified Leak? 18:45 President Obama: Trusty “Room for Potential Prosecution” 20:00 Defendants Strategy to Run Out the Clock 21:50 Legitimate Indictments vs. Moral Condemnation 23:10 White House Briefing: Taking the New Media Seat 23:55 Breaking the Legacy Media Hold on Washington DC Reporting false full 28 421ecf5d-1bbb-4602-b17d-7ed87fc50c92 Inside the Maduro Raid EXCLUSIVE: Whistleblowers Seeking $50 Million ‘Reward For Justice’ Give First Ever Interview And Release 2025 Affidavit Detailing Specific Intelligence They Say Led To Successful Capture of Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down for an exclusive first interview with two former DEA agents with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Wesley Tabor, and an undercover agent we agreed to call “Mack,” revealed how their source network infiltrated “every node” of the Maduro regime and delivered vital intelligence to DEA, Delta Operators and others that, they say, directly contributed to the dictator’s capture. The Rewards for Justice Program falls under the U.S. State Department. Affidavits and other records independently reviewed by our team detail how sources provided the US government with bunker schematics, underground tunnels, convoy photographs, offensive military bases, escape aircraft tail numbers, gold stockpiles, and even key movements of Maduro and his spiritual advisor. Wesley and “Mack” say this information was extracted from Venezuela using unconventional methods such as commercial “entertainment” platforms and at great risk to their sources. Despite the DEA reportedly withdrawing their involvement, they say their team continued feeding intelligence directly to their Delta Detachment contact at Fort Bragg. Now four months since the historic raid in Venezuela, they say they have received no response on their $50 million ‘Rewards for Justice’ claim which would help their sources begin new lives. Currently, Wes and “Mack” said the sources, and their families, including children are being hunted down and their lives threatened. If the Rewards for Justice Program does not pay for credible leads and tips, Wes and Mack say it will discourage other sources from cooperating and supporting future US operations.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Mon, 18 May 2026 17:27:44 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-maduro-raid-_iTD6V0O-LW7FehKu EXCLUSIVE: Whistleblowers Seeking $50 Million ‘Reward For Justice’ Give First Ever Interview And Release 2025 Affidavit Detailing Specific Intelligence They Say Led To Successful Capture of Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down for an exclusive first interview with two former DEA agents with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Wesley Tabor, and an undercover agent we agreed to call “Mack,” revealed how their source network infiltrated “every node” of the Maduro regime and delivered vital intelligence to DEA, Delta Operators and others that, they say, directly contributed to the dictator’s capture. The Rewards for Justice Program falls under the U.S. State Department. Affidavits and other records independently reviewed by our team detail how sources provided the US government with bunker schematics, underground tunnels, convoy photographs, offensive military bases, escape aircraft tail numbers, gold stockpiles, and even key movements of Maduro and his spiritual advisor. Wesley and “Mack” say this information was extracted from Venezuela using unconventional methods such as commercial “entertainment” platforms and at great risk to their sources. Despite the DEA reportedly withdrawing their involvement, they say their team continued feeding intelligence directly to their Delta Detachment contact at Fort Bragg. Now four months since the historic raid in Venezuela, they say they have received no response on their $50 million ‘Rewards for Justice’ claim which would help their sources begin new lives. Currently, Wes and “Mack” said the sources, and their families, including children are being hunted down and their lives threatened. If the Rewards for Justice Program does not pay for credible leads and tips, Wes and Mack say it will discourage other sources from cooperating and supporting future US operations.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Inside the Maduro Raid darius derakshan 00:20:07 EXCLUSIVE: Whistleblowers Seeking $50 Million ‘Reward For Justice’ Give First Ever Interview And Release 2025 Affidavit Detailing Specific Intelligence They Say Led To Successful Capture of Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down for an exclusive first interview with two former DEA agents with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Wesley Tabor, and an undercover agent we agreed to call “Mack,” revealed how their source network infiltrated “every node” of the Maduro regime and delivered vital intelligence to DEA, Delta Operators and others that, they say, directly contributed to the dictator’s capture. The Rewards for Justice Program falls under the U.S. State Department. Affidavits and other records independently reviewed by our team detail how sources provided the US government with bunker schematics, underground tunnels, convoy photographs, offensive military bases, escape aircraft tail numbers, gold stockpiles, and even key movements of Maduro and his spiritual advisor. Wesley and “Mack” say this information was extracted from Venezuela using unconventional methods such as commercial “entertainment” platforms and at great risk to their sources. Despite the DEA reportedly withdrawing their involvement, they say their team continued feeding intelligence directly to their Delta Detachment contact at Fort Bragg. Now four months since the historic raid in Venezuela, they say they have received no response on their $50 million ‘Rewards for Justice’ claim which would help their sources begin new lives. Currently, Wes and “Mack” said the sources, and their families, including children are being hunted down and their lives threatened. If the Rewards for Justice Program does not pay for credible leads and tips, Wes and Mack say it will discourage other sources from cooperating and supporting future US operations. EXCLUSIVE: Whistleblowers Seeking $50 Million ‘Reward For Justice’ Give First Ever Interview And Release 2025 Affidavit Detailing Specific Intelligence They Say Led To Successful Capture of Venezuelan Dictator Nicolas Maduro This week on Straight to the Point, I sat down for an exclusive first interview with two former DEA agents with more than 40 years of combined experience in the global drug wars. Wesley Tabor, and an undercover agent we agreed to call “Mack,” revealed how their source network infiltrated “every node” of the Maduro regime and delivered vital intelligence to DEA, Delta Operators and others that, they say, directly contributed to the dictator’s capture. The Rewards for Justice Program falls under the U.S. State Department. Affidavits and other records independently reviewed by our team detail how sources provided the US government with bunker schematics, underground tunnels, convoy photographs, offensive military bases, escape aircraft tail numbers, gold stockpiles, and even key movements of Maduro and his spiritual advisor. Wesley and “Mack” say this information was extracted from Venezuela using unconventional methods such as commercial “entertainment” platforms and at great risk to their sources. Despite the DEA reportedly withdrawing their involvement, they say their team continued feeding intelligence directly to their Delta Detachment contact at Fort Bragg. Now four months since the historic raid in Venezuela, they say they have received no response on their $50 million ‘Rewards for Justice’ claim which would help their sources begin new lives. Currently, Wes and “Mack” said the sources, and their families, including children are being hunted down and their lives threatened. If the Rewards for Justice Program does not pay for credible leads and tips, Wes and Mack say it will discourage other sources from cooperating and supporting future US operations. false full 27 37c1f220-3cab-4bcc-85ee-0e3f53700637 DEVELOPING: Rep. Anna Paulina Luna Says Major “Purge” on Capitol Hill is Just Beginning From LATMG | This week on Straight to the Point, GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna sat down to discuss why she drafted a motion to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell and exclusively revealed the support she says she received from his own Chief of Staff. The Congresswoman raised serious questions about the now infamous hotel video and warned that additional House members and at least one sitting Senator have serious questions to answer. Rep. Luna told us that we are only weeks away from finding out just how much taxpayer money is used for a congressional slush fund to bury sexual harassment and other disputes. We also discussed the “Wolf of Wall Street” insider trading by members of Congress, seeking justice on Epstein, the Republican midterm outlook, and more. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:18:38 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/developing-rep-anna-paulina-luna-says-major-purge-on-capitol-hill-is-just-beginning-vKmCx_FF From LATMG | This week on Straight to the Point, GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna sat down to discuss why she drafted a motion to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell and exclusively revealed the support she says she received from his own Chief of Staff. The Congresswoman raised serious questions about the now infamous hotel video and warned that additional House members and at least one sitting Senator have serious questions to answer. Rep. Luna told us that we are only weeks away from finding out just how much taxpayer money is used for a congressional slush fund to bury sexual harassment and other disputes. We also discussed the “Wolf of Wall Street” insider trading by members of Congress, seeking justice on Epstein, the Republican midterm outlook, and more. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> DEVELOPING: Rep. Anna Paulina Luna Says Major “Purge” on Capitol Hill is Just Beginning darius derakshan 00:23:17 From LATMG | This week on Straight to the Point, GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna sat down to discuss why she drafted a motion to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell and exclusively revealed the support she says she received from his own Chief of Staff. The Congresswoman raised serious questions about the now infamous hotel video and warned that additional House members and at least one sitting Senator have serious questions to answer. Rep. Luna told us that we are only weeks away from finding out just how much taxpayer money is used for a congressional slush fund to bury sexual harassment and other disputes. We also discussed the “Wolf of Wall Street” insider trading by members of Congress, seeking justice on Epstein, the Republican midterm outlook, and more. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ From LATMG | This week on Straight to the Point, GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna sat down to discuss why she drafted a motion to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell and exclusively revealed the support she says she received from his own Chief of Staff. The Congresswoman raised serious questions about the now infamous hotel video and warned that additional House members and at least one sitting Senator have serious questions to answer. Rep. Luna told us that we are only weeks away from finding out just how much taxpayer money is used for a congressional slush fund to bury sexual harassment and other disputes. We also discussed the “Wolf of Wall Street” insider trading by members of Congress, seeking justice on Epstein, the Republican midterm outlook, and more. @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ false full 24 b3819582-8bfa-42d2-870c-a1afccc8053a Operation Epic Fury BREAKING: Retired CENTCOM Commander Gives Exclusive In-Depth Analysis of Operation Epic Fury; Warns That Iran’s Fight is "Existential" And U.S. Should Not Underestimate Their Ability to Continue Enduring The Fight This week on Straight to the Point, on the eve of the ceasefire, I sat down with retired 4-Star General Joe Votel for an exclusive interview to discuss Operation Epic Fury. Gen. Votel gives expert insight into how long Iran can sustain the fight, what it would take to open the Strait of Hormuz by force, control Kharg Island, options for securing Iran’s enriched uranium, the planning behind last weekend’s successful rescue operation inside Iran, and the atmosphere in the Situation Room during high-risk missions. Straight to the Point: Operation Epic Fury 00:30 US Had Iran Attack Plan On The Shelf - Deliberate Execution of Campaign Plan 01:25 Military End State 02:00 This is Existential: Iran Has “Very Great” Ability to Absorb Pain 03:03 Remaining Military Objectives 03:30 Opening Strait of Hormuz By Force 06:10 What It Would Take For US To Control Kharg Island 07:20 Is Deployment of Ground Forces Likely Or Inevitable? 08:25 Does the US Military Have Capabilities To Seize Iran’s Enriched Uranium? 10:18 Impact of President Trump’s Social Media Posts “Whole Civilization Will Die Tonight” 11:15 Rescue Mission Was “Extraordinary” In “Every Measure” 12:40 “When An American Is In Peril, We Pull Out All The Stops And We Accept A Lot of Risk To Go Get Them.” 13:16 The Rescue Contingency Plan 14:00 High Risk Covert Capabilities: Title 50 15:50 Inside The Situation Room 16:55 Gen. Dan “Razin” Cane: Great Communicator 19:10 Failed 1980 Rescue Mission for American Hostages In Iran: Planted Seeds For Special Forces/Special Ops

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:36:45 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/operation-epic-fury-slWmX7Ie BREAKING: Retired CENTCOM Commander Gives Exclusive In-Depth Analysis of Operation Epic Fury; Warns That Iran’s Fight is "Existential" And U.S. Should Not Underestimate Their Ability to Continue Enduring The Fight This week on Straight to the Point, on the eve of the ceasefire, I sat down with retired 4-Star General Joe Votel for an exclusive interview to discuss Operation Epic Fury. Gen. Votel gives expert insight into how long Iran can sustain the fight, what it would take to open the Strait of Hormuz by force, control Kharg Island, options for securing Iran’s enriched uranium, the planning behind last weekend’s successful rescue operation inside Iran, and the atmosphere in the Situation Room during high-risk missions. Straight to the Point: Operation Epic Fury 00:30 US Had Iran Attack Plan On The Shelf - Deliberate Execution of Campaign Plan 01:25 Military End State 02:00 This is Existential: Iran Has “Very Great” Ability to Absorb Pain 03:03 Remaining Military Objectives 03:30 Opening Strait of Hormuz By Force 06:10 What It Would Take For US To Control Kharg Island 07:20 Is Deployment of Ground Forces Likely Or Inevitable? 08:25 Does the US Military Have Capabilities To Seize Iran’s Enriched Uranium? 10:18 Impact of President Trump’s Social Media Posts “Whole Civilization Will Die Tonight” 11:15 Rescue Mission Was “Extraordinary” In “Every Measure” 12:40 “When An American Is In Peril, We Pull Out All The Stops And We Accept A Lot of Risk To Go Get Them.” 13:16 The Rescue Contingency Plan 14:00 High Risk Covert Capabilities: Title 50 15:50 Inside The Situation Room 16:55 Gen. Dan “Razin” Cane: Great Communicator 19:10 Failed 1980 Rescue Mission for American Hostages In Iran: Planted Seeds For Special Forces/Special Ops

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Operation Epic Fury darius derakshan 00:22:31 BREAKING: Retired CENTCOM Commander Gives Exclusive In-Depth Analysis of Operation Epic Fury; Warns That Iran’s Fight is "Existential" And U.S. Should Not Underestimate Their Ability to Continue Enduring The Fight This week on Straight to the Point, on the eve of the ceasefire, I sat down with retired 4-Star General Joe Votel for an exclusive interview to discuss Operation Epic Fury. Gen. Votel gives expert insight into how long Iran can sustain the fight, what it would take to open the Strait of Hormuz by force, control Kharg Island, options for securing Iran’s enriched uranium, the planning behind last weekend’s successful rescue operation inside Iran, and the atmosphere in the Situation Room during high-risk missions. Straight to the Point: Operation Epic Fury 00:30 US Had Iran Attack Plan On The Shelf - Deliberate Execution of Campaign Plan 01:25 Military End State 02:00 This is Existential: Iran Has “Very Great” Ability to Absorb Pain 03:03 Remaining Military Objectives 03:30 Opening Strait of Hormuz By Force 06:10 What It Would Take For US To Control Kharg Island 07:20 Is Deployment of Ground Forces Likely Or Inevitable? 08:25 Does the US Military Have Capabilities To Seize Iran’s Enriched Uranium? 10:18 Impact of President Trump’s Social Media Posts “Whole Civilization Will Die Tonight” 11:15 Rescue Mission Was “Extraordinary” In “Every Measure” 12:40 “When An American Is In Peril, We Pull Out All The Stops And We Accept A Lot of Risk To Go Get Them.” 13:16 The Rescue Contingency Plan 14:00 High Risk Covert Capabilities: Title 50 15:50 Inside The Situation Room 16:55 Gen. Dan “Razin” Cane: Great Communicator 19:10 Failed 1980 Rescue Mission for American Hostages In Iran: Planted Seeds For Special Forces/Special Ops BREAKING: Retired CENTCOM Commander Gives Exclusive In-Depth Analysis of Operation Epic Fury; Warns That Iran’s Fight is "Existential" And U.S. Should Not Underestimate Their Ability to Continue Enduring The Fight This week on Straight to the Point, on the eve of the ceasefire, I sat down with retired 4-Star General Joe Votel for an exclusive interview to discuss Operation Epic Fury. Gen. Votel gives expert insight into how long Iran can sustain the fight, what it would take to open the Strait of Hormuz by force, control Kharg Island, options for securing Iran’s enriched uranium, the planning behind last weekend’s successful rescue operation inside Iran, and the atmosphere in the Situation Room during high-risk missions. Straight to the Point: Operation Epic Fury 00:30 US Had Iran Attack Plan On The Shelf - Deliberate Execution of Campaign Plan 01:25 Military End State 02:00 This is Existential: Iran Has “Very Great” Ability to Absorb Pain 03:03 Remaining Military Objectives 03:30 Opening Strait of Hormuz By Force 06:10 What It Would Take For US To Control Kharg Island 07:20 Is Deployment of Ground Forces Likely Or Inevitable? 08:25 Does the US Military Have Capabilities To Seize Iran’s Enriched Uranium? 10:18 Impact of President Trump’s Social Media Posts “Whole Civilization Will Die Tonight” 11:15 Rescue Mission Was “Extraordinary” In “Every Measure” 12:40 “When An American Is In Peril, We Pull Out All The Stops And We Accept A Lot of Risk To Go Get Them.” 13:16 The Rescue Contingency Plan 14:00 High Risk Covert Capabilities: Title 50 15:50 Inside The Situation Room 16:55 Gen. Dan “Razin” Cane: Great Communicator 19:10 Failed 1980 Rescue Mission for American Hostages In Iran: Planted Seeds For Special Forces/Special Ops false full 23 afb44c3d-295d-4f1d-a6a2-b4d088002bbb Exposing Epstein's Saudi 9/11 Connection EXCLUSIVE: New Files Examined By Law Enforcement/Intelligence Analyst Reveal Jeffery Epstein Allegedly Acted as Go-Between to Block 9/11 Victim Families From Suing Saudi Arabia And Details Possible FARA Violations This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with Morgan Wright, a nationally recognized cybersecurity, law enforcement and intelligence analyst. Wright analyzes the new revelations from the Epstein files and discusses evidence that Jeffrey Epstein functioned as a high-level influence operator allegedly protecting Saudi Arabian interests which included apparent attempts to block 9/11 families lawsuits before Trump took office, a 9/11 “shadow” commission with Ghislaine Maxwell, and bragging about SCIF access with Steve Bannon. Wright also says that Epstein fits the exact profile of individuals valuable to the CIA National Resources Division and questions why Epstein was never investigated for apparent violations of foreign lobbying laws by either party. Ken Starr died in 2022. A Saudi Embassy spokesperson confirmed receipt of our questions about the Kingdom’s relationship with Epstein, but did not immediately comment. The Estate of Jeffrey Epstein did not respond to our email seeking comment. A spokeswoman for Kathryn Ruemmler, former White House Counsel for President Obama said: "Ms. Ruemmler did not take any action, in either a professional or personal capacity, related to JASTA (Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act,) the 9/11 families, or their ability to sue Saudi Arabia. She was never asked to take any action on this matter and never did.""Ms. Ruemmler welcomes the opportunity to appear before the Committee. At the time she interacted with Jeffrey Epstein, she was a practicing criminal defense attorney and shared a client with him. She has done nothing wrong and had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal activity on his part.”  @LATimesStudios  Time Stamps: 01:00 Epstein: Alleged effort to Block 9/11 families from suing Saudi Arabia 02:00 Epstein: Claims he will get former Obama WH Counsel and Ken Starr to help 03:18 Urgency to Act: Before President Trump’s first term 04:20 Epstein: Violations Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) 05:05 Neither Republican nor Democrat Administrations Pursued Epstein’s Alleged FARA violations 06:10 Ghislaine Maxwell: “Shadow” 9/11 Commission 08:15 Epstein: Brags to Steve Bannon About Access to “highly classified” facility 10:12 Epstein: In-Q-Tel (CIA-Backed High Tech Fund) 11:30 Epstein: Travel to “Denied” Areas 12:22 Congresswoman Mace: CIA should open its books on Epstein 13:30 CIA: National Resources Division For Intelligence Gathering 14:40 Epstein Attorneys File CIA and NSA FOIAs: Controlling The Narrative 17:49 DOJ “Coding Error” on Trump/Epstein Files 19:30 Response Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Epstein Estate, Kathryn Ruemmler

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Thu, 2 Apr 2026 19:04:56 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/exposing-epsteins-saudi-9-11-connection-I_4kHTP2 EXCLUSIVE: New Files Examined By Law Enforcement/Intelligence Analyst Reveal Jeffery Epstein Allegedly Acted as Go-Between to Block 9/11 Victim Families From Suing Saudi Arabia And Details Possible FARA Violations This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with Morgan Wright, a nationally recognized cybersecurity, law enforcement and intelligence analyst. Wright analyzes the new revelations from the Epstein files and discusses evidence that Jeffrey Epstein functioned as a high-level influence operator allegedly protecting Saudi Arabian interests which included apparent attempts to block 9/11 families lawsuits before Trump took office, a 9/11 “shadow” commission with Ghislaine Maxwell, and bragging about SCIF access with Steve Bannon. Wright also says that Epstein fits the exact profile of individuals valuable to the CIA National Resources Division and questions why Epstein was never investigated for apparent violations of foreign lobbying laws by either party. Ken Starr died in 2022. A Saudi Embassy spokesperson confirmed receipt of our questions about the Kingdom’s relationship with Epstein, but did not immediately comment. The Estate of Jeffrey Epstein did not respond to our email seeking comment. A spokeswoman for Kathryn Ruemmler, former White House Counsel for President Obama said: "Ms. Ruemmler did not take any action, in either a professional or personal capacity, related to JASTA (Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act,) the 9/11 families, or their ability to sue Saudi Arabia. She was never asked to take any action on this matter and never did.""Ms. Ruemmler welcomes the opportunity to appear before the Committee. At the time she interacted with Jeffrey Epstein, she was a practicing criminal defense attorney and shared a client with him. She has done nothing wrong and had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal activity on his part.”  @LATimesStudios  Time Stamps: 01:00 Epstein: Alleged effort to Block 9/11 families from suing Saudi Arabia 02:00 Epstein: Claims he will get former Obama WH Counsel and Ken Starr to help 03:18 Urgency to Act: Before President Trump’s first term 04:20 Epstein: Violations Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) 05:05 Neither Republican nor Democrat Administrations Pursued Epstein’s Alleged FARA violations 06:10 Ghislaine Maxwell: “Shadow” 9/11 Commission 08:15 Epstein: Brags to Steve Bannon About Access to “highly classified” facility 10:12 Epstein: In-Q-Tel (CIA-Backed High Tech Fund) 11:30 Epstein: Travel to “Denied” Areas 12:22 Congresswoman Mace: CIA should open its books on Epstein 13:30 CIA: National Resources Division For Intelligence Gathering 14:40 Epstein Attorneys File CIA and NSA FOIAs: Controlling The Narrative 17:49 DOJ “Coding Error” on Trump/Epstein Files 19:30 Response Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Epstein Estate, Kathryn Ruemmler

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Exposing Epstein's Saudi 9/11 Connection darius derakshan 00:21:46 EXCLUSIVE: New Files Examined By Law Enforcement/Intelligence Analyst Reveal Jeffery Epstein Allegedly Acted as Go-Between to Block 9/11 Victim Families From Suing Saudi Arabia And Details Possible FARA Violations This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with Morgan Wright, a nationally recognized cybersecurity, law enforcement and intelligence analyst. Wright analyzes the new revelations from the Epstein files and discusses evidence that Jeffrey Epstein functioned as a high-level influence operator allegedly protecting Saudi Arabian interests which included apparent attempts to block 9/11 families lawsuits before Trump took office, a 9/11 “shadow” commission with Ghislaine Maxwell, and bragging about SCIF access with Steve Bannon. Wright also says that Epstein fits the exact profile of individuals valuable to the CIA National Resources Division and questions why Epstein was never investigated for apparent violations of foreign lobbying laws by either party. Ken Starr died in 2022. A Saudi Embassy spokesperson confirmed receipt of our questions about the Kingdom’s relationship with Epstein, but did not immediately comment. The Estate of Jeffrey Epstein did not respond to our email seeking comment. A spokeswoman for Kathryn Ruemmler, former White House Counsel for President Obama said: "Ms. Ruemmler did not take any action, in either a professional or personal capacity, related to JASTA (Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act,) the 9/11 families, or their ability to sue Saudi Arabia. She was never asked to take any action on this matter and never did.""Ms. Ruemmler welcomes the opportunity to appear before the Committee. At the time she interacted with Jeffrey Epstein, she was a practicing criminal defense attorney and shared a client with him. She has done nothing wrong and had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal activity on his part.” @LATimesStudios Time Stamps: 01:00 Epstein: Alleged effort to Block 9/11 families from suing Saudi Arabia 02:00 Epstein: Claims he will get former Obama WH Counsel and Ken Starr to help 03:18 Urgency to Act: Before President Trump’s first term 04:20 Epstein: Violations Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) 05:05 Neither Republican nor Democrat Administrations Pursued Epstein’s Alleged FARA violations 06:10 Ghislaine Maxwell: “Shadow” 9/11 Commission 08:15 Epstein: Brags to Steve Bannon About Access to “highly classified” facility 10:12 Epstein: In-Q-Tel (CIA-Backed High Tech Fund) 11:30 Epstein: Travel to “Denied” Areas 12:22 Congresswoman Mace: CIA should open its books on Epstein 13:30 CIA: National Resources Division For Intelligence Gathering 14:40 Epstein Attorneys File CIA and NSA FOIAs: Controlling The Narrative 17:49 DOJ “Coding Error” on Trump/Epstein Files 19:30 Response Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Epstein Estate, Kathryn Ruemmler EXCLUSIVE: New Files Examined By Law Enforcement/Intelligence Analyst Reveal Jeffery Epstein Allegedly Acted as Go-Between to Block 9/11 Victim Families From Suing Saudi Arabia And Details Possible FARA Violations This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with Morgan Wright, a nationally recognized cybersecurity, law enforcement and intelligence analyst. Wright analyzes the new revelations from the Epstein files and discusses evidence that Jeffrey Epstein functioned as a high-level influence operator allegedly protecting Saudi Arabian interests which included apparent attempts to block 9/11 families lawsuits before Trump took office, a 9/11 “shadow” commission with Ghislaine Maxwell, and bragging about SCIF access with Steve Bannon. Wright also says that Epstein fits the exact profile of individuals valuable to the CIA National Resources Division and questions why Epstein was never investigated for apparent violations of foreign lobbying laws by either party. Ken Starr died in 2022. A Saudi Embassy spokesperson confirmed receipt of our questions about the Kingdom’s relationship with Epstein, but did not immediately comment. The Estate of Jeffrey Epstein did not respond to our email seeking comment. A spokeswoman for Kathryn Ruemmler, former White House Counsel for President Obama said: "Ms. Ruemmler did not take any action, in either a professional or personal capacity, related to JASTA (Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act,) the 9/11 families, or their ability to sue Saudi Arabia. She was never asked to take any action on this matter and never did.""Ms. Ruemmler welcomes the opportunity to appear before the Committee. At the time she interacted with Jeffrey Epstein, she was a practicing criminal defense attorney and shared a client with him. She has done nothing wrong and had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal activity on his part.” @LATimesStudios Time Stamps: 01:00 Epstein: Alleged effort to Block 9/11 families from suing Saudi Arabia 02:00 Epstein: Claims he will get former Obama WH Counsel and Ken Starr to help 03:18 Urgency to Act: Before President Trump’s first term 04:20 Epstein: Violations Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) 05:05 Neither Republican nor Democrat Administrations Pursued Epstein’s Alleged FARA violations 06:10 Ghislaine Maxwell: “Shadow” 9/11 Commission 08:15 Epstein: Brags to Steve Bannon About Access to “highly classified” facility 10:12 Epstein: In-Q-Tel (CIA-Backed High Tech Fund) 11:30 Epstein: Travel to “Denied” Areas 12:22 Congresswoman Mace: CIA should open its books on Epstein 13:30 CIA: National Resources Division For Intelligence Gathering 14:40 Epstein Attorneys File CIA and NSA FOIAs: Controlling The Narrative 17:49 DOJ “Coding Error” on Trump/Epstein Files 19:30 Response Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Epstein Estate, Kathryn Ruemmler false full 22 1e4aabb6-4292-4930-82e5-7b930c823801 FBI's Secret Targeting of Team Trump BREAKING: Longtime Trump Advisor Michael Caputo Shares Never-Before-Seen FBI Subpoena And Search Warrant Targeting Him During Biden Administration: Alleges Biden Era Weaponization Continues at DOJ During Trump’s Second Term This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with longtime Trump confidant and advisor Michael Caputo. In this exclusive interview, Caputo shares a never-before-seen FBI subpoena and sweeping federal search warrant that targeted him during the Biden Administration. Caputo details the horrifying fallout of the secret Biden-era investigation over his Ukraine reporting and anti-weaponization policy work that stayed active even inside the Trump administration and the devastating toll it took on his family.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:10:37 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/fbis-secret-targeting-of-team-trump-MQRRbgXk BREAKING: Longtime Trump Advisor Michael Caputo Shares Never-Before-Seen FBI Subpoena And Search Warrant Targeting Him During Biden Administration: Alleges Biden Era Weaponization Continues at DOJ During Trump’s Second Term This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with longtime Trump confidant and advisor Michael Caputo. In this exclusive interview, Caputo shares a never-before-seen FBI subpoena and sweeping federal search warrant that targeted him during the Biden Administration. Caputo details the horrifying fallout of the secret Biden-era investigation over his Ukraine reporting and anti-weaponization policy work that stayed active even inside the Trump administration and the devastating toll it took on his family.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> FBI's Secret Targeting of Team Trump darius derakshan 00:24:09 BREAKING: Longtime Trump Advisor Michael Caputo Shares Never-Before-Seen FBI Subpoena And Search Warrant Targeting Him During Biden Administration: Alleges Biden Era Weaponization Continues at DOJ During Trump’s Second Term This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with longtime Trump confidant and advisor Michael Caputo. In this exclusive interview, Caputo shares a never-before-seen FBI subpoena and sweeping federal search warrant that targeted him during the Biden Administration. Caputo details the horrifying fallout of the secret Biden-era investigation over his Ukraine reporting and anti-weaponization policy work that stayed active even inside the Trump administration and the devastating toll it took on his family. BREAKING: Longtime Trump Advisor Michael Caputo Shares Never-Before-Seen FBI Subpoena And Search Warrant Targeting Him During Biden Administration: Alleges Biden Era Weaponization Continues at DOJ During Trump’s Second Term This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with longtime Trump confidant and advisor Michael Caputo. In this exclusive interview, Caputo shares a never-before-seen FBI subpoena and sweeping federal search warrant that targeted him during the Biden Administration. Caputo details the horrifying fallout of the secret Biden-era investigation over his Ukraine reporting and anti-weaponization policy work that stayed active even inside the Trump administration and the devastating toll it took on his family. false full 21 aa94f8f6-f252-435b-a48d-4d4d5945972e NASA’s Lunar Ambitions, Mars and Beyond EXCLUSIVE: NASA Boss Reveals New Artemis II Launch Plans And Details Ambitious 2027 Lunar Base Start Date; Says Manned Mars Missions And Humans Becoming An Interplanetary Species Within The Next Decade This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman at NASA’s DC Headquarters. In this exclusive interview, the head of the United States space program laid out the future of American missions to the Moon, Mars, the Orbital economy and beyond. 
 

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:16:34 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/nasas-lunar-ambitions-mars-and-beyond-G8e4IZlo EXCLUSIVE: NASA Boss Reveals New Artemis II Launch Plans And Details Ambitious 2027 Lunar Base Start Date; Says Manned Mars Missions And Humans Becoming An Interplanetary Species Within The Next Decade This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman at NASA’s DC Headquarters. In this exclusive interview, the head of the United States space program laid out the future of American missions to the Moon, Mars, the Orbital economy and beyond. 
 

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> NASA’s Lunar Ambitions, Mars and Beyond darius derakshan 00:32:19 EXCLUSIVE: NASA Boss Reveals New Artemis II Launch Plans And Details Ambitious 2027 Lunar Base Start Date; Says Manned Mars Missions And Humans Becoming An Interplanetary Species Within The Next Decade This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman at NASA’s DC Headquarters. In this exclusive interview, the head of the United States space program laid out the future of American missions to the Moon, Mars, the Orbital economy and beyond. EXCLUSIVE: NASA Boss Reveals New Artemis II Launch Plans And Details Ambitious 2027 Lunar Base Start Date; Says Manned Mars Missions And Humans Becoming An Interplanetary Species Within The Next Decade This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman at NASA’s DC Headquarters. In this exclusive interview, the head of the United States space program laid out the future of American missions to the Moon, Mars, the Orbital economy and beyond. false full 20 7cbd913f-589b-435c-9056-fce0d43b0581 CCP's Stealth War on America BREAKING: Former Commander US Army Pacific Gen. Charlie Flynn EXPOSES CCP’s Stealth War on America; Says President Trump’s Venezuela Raid Was a WARNING SHOT to Our Enemies And Explains Why United States National Security Strategy MUST Prioritize Asia. I recently sat down with Gen. Charlie Flynn, a retired 4-Star General who said the Chinese Communist Party operates a network of “hard spies” inside the US that exploits 300,000 Chinese students, has already infiltrated Alaska military bases with cameras and drones, and intentionally poisons American youth with Fentanyl. Our full interview goes in depth on the Chinese cyber attacks Salt Typhoon & Volt Typhoon, the importance of American control over rare earth minerals, emerging threats in the Arctic, and more.FULL TRANSPARENCY: Our interview with Gen. Charlie Flynn was recorded prior to Operation Epic Fury.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:13:36 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/ccps-stealth-war-on-america-TkaECWmS BREAKING: Former Commander US Army Pacific Gen. Charlie Flynn EXPOSES CCP’s Stealth War on America; Says President Trump’s Venezuela Raid Was a WARNING SHOT to Our Enemies And Explains Why United States National Security Strategy MUST Prioritize Asia. I recently sat down with Gen. Charlie Flynn, a retired 4-Star General who said the Chinese Communist Party operates a network of “hard spies” inside the US that exploits 300,000 Chinese students, has already infiltrated Alaska military bases with cameras and drones, and intentionally poisons American youth with Fentanyl. Our full interview goes in depth on the Chinese cyber attacks Salt Typhoon & Volt Typhoon, the importance of American control over rare earth minerals, emerging threats in the Arctic, and more.FULL TRANSPARENCY: Our interview with Gen. Charlie Flynn was recorded prior to Operation Epic Fury.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> CCP's Stealth War on America darius derakshan 00:24:01 BREAKING: Former Commander US Army Pacific Gen. Charlie Flynn EXPOSES CCP’s Stealth War on America; Says President Trump’s Venezuela Raid Was a WARNING SHOT to Our Enemies And Explains Why United States National Security Strategy MUST Prioritize Asia. I recently sat down with Gen. Charlie Flynn, a retired 4-Star General who said the Chinese Communist Party operates a network of “hard spies” inside the US that exploits 300,000 Chinese students, has already infiltrated Alaska military bases with cameras and drones, and intentionally poisons American youth with Fentanyl. Our full interview goes in depth on the Chinese cyber attacks Salt Typhoon & Volt Typhoon, the importance of American control over rare earth minerals, emerging threats in the Arctic, and more.FULL TRANSPARENCY: Our interview with Gen. Charlie Flynn was recorded prior to Operation Epic Fury. BREAKING: Former Commander US Army Pacific Gen. Charlie Flynn EXPOSES CCP’s Stealth War on America; Says President Trump’s Venezuela Raid Was a WARNING SHOT to Our Enemies And Explains Why United States National Security Strategy MUST Prioritize Asia. I recently sat down with Gen. Charlie Flynn, a retired 4-Star General who said the Chinese Communist Party operates a network of “hard spies” inside the US that exploits 300,000 Chinese students, has already infiltrated Alaska military bases with cameras and drones, and intentionally poisons American youth with Fentanyl. Our full interview goes in depth on the Chinese cyber attacks Salt Typhoon & Volt Typhoon, the importance of American control over rare earth minerals, emerging threats in the Arctic, and more.FULL TRANSPARENCY: Our interview with Gen. Charlie Flynn was recorded prior to Operation Epic Fury. false full 19 465fff0b-3314-41da-8738-37d7e9f7d127 Heidi's Story (Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism on American Soil) EXCLUSIVE: Heidi’s Story This week, you'll hear exclusively from a military spouse and mother of four sons who was ‘collateral damage’ after her husband, a US Space Force veteran, says he was targeted five times by a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) in their Virginia home. In their first on-camera interview, the retired military officer and his wife, we agreed to call Chris and Heidi, said the most severe attacks happened while they were sleeping. A month later, in January 2021, Heidi’s health suddenly fell apart with a thyroid cancer diagnosis and bizarre disintegration of her collarbone. Since, Chris has been diagnosed with over 40 injuries including a traumatic brain injury connected to Directed Energy Exposure. These mysterious brain injuries among spies, diplomats and military personnel are known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. While Chris, a retired military officer, has access to specialized DoW medical programs, Heidi has injuries that civilian healthcare struggles to understand. Asked why she is coming forward, Heidi said the government should establish a protocol for supporting and treating injured family members and their children. Heidi emphasized that civilian healthcare treats symptoms but it doesn’t address the root cause. Heidi is also urging the US government to acknowledge Directed Energy Attacks on US government personnel and family members who are collateral damage. Every interview has a moment that can move you. Listen as Heidi and Chris describe the DEW attacks that could have injured their children, including one son who is critically ill. Part 1 of our investigation posted February 26. Heidi’s Story is Part 2. A DoW spokesperson declined to comment for our investigation. We will provide an update, if that changes.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:09:33 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/heidis-story-directed-energy-weapon-terrorism-on-american-soil-DOgwwbto EXCLUSIVE: Heidi’s Story This week, you'll hear exclusively from a military spouse and mother of four sons who was ‘collateral damage’ after her husband, a US Space Force veteran, says he was targeted five times by a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) in their Virginia home. In their first on-camera interview, the retired military officer and his wife, we agreed to call Chris and Heidi, said the most severe attacks happened while they were sleeping. A month later, in January 2021, Heidi’s health suddenly fell apart with a thyroid cancer diagnosis and bizarre disintegration of her collarbone. Since, Chris has been diagnosed with over 40 injuries including a traumatic brain injury connected to Directed Energy Exposure. These mysterious brain injuries among spies, diplomats and military personnel are known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. While Chris, a retired military officer, has access to specialized DoW medical programs, Heidi has injuries that civilian healthcare struggles to understand. Asked why she is coming forward, Heidi said the government should establish a protocol for supporting and treating injured family members and their children. Heidi emphasized that civilian healthcare treats symptoms but it doesn’t address the root cause. Heidi is also urging the US government to acknowledge Directed Energy Attacks on US government personnel and family members who are collateral damage. Every interview has a moment that can move you. Listen as Heidi and Chris describe the DEW attacks that could have injured their children, including one son who is critically ill. Part 1 of our investigation posted February 26. Heidi’s Story is Part 2. A DoW spokesperson declined to comment for our investigation. We will provide an update, if that changes.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Heidi's Story (Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism on American Soil) darius derakshan 00:15:01 EXCLUSIVE: Heidi’s Story This week, you'll hear exclusively from a military spouse and mother of four sons who was ‘collateral damage’ after her husband, a US Space Force veteran, says he was targeted five times by a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) in their Virginia home. In their first on-camera interview, the retired military officer and his wife, we agreed to call Chris and Heidi, said the most severe attacks happened while they were sleeping. A month later, in January 2021, Heidi’s health suddenly fell apart with a thyroid cancer diagnosis and bizarre disintegration of her collarbone. Since, Chris has been diagnosed with over 40 injuries including a traumatic brain injury connected to Directed Energy Exposure. These mysterious brain injuries among spies, diplomats and military personnel are known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. While Chris, a retired military officer, has access to specialized DoW medical programs, Heidi has injuries that civilian healthcare struggles to understand. Asked why she is coming forward, Heidi said the government should establish a protocol for supporting and treating injured family members and their children. Heidi emphasized that civilian healthcare treats symptoms but it doesn’t address the root cause. Heidi is also urging the US government to acknowledge Directed Energy Attacks on US government personnel and family members who are collateral damage. Every interview has a moment that can move you. Listen as Heidi and Chris describe the DEW attacks that could have injured their children, including one son who is critically ill. Part 1 of our investigation posted February 26. Heidi’s Story is Part 2. A DoW spokesperson declined to comment for our investigation. We will provide an update, if that changes. EXCLUSIVE: Heidi’s Story This week, you'll hear exclusively from a military spouse and mother of four sons who was ‘collateral damage’ after her husband, a US Space Force veteran, says he was targeted five times by a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) in their Virginia home. In their first on-camera interview, the retired military officer and his wife, we agreed to call Chris and Heidi, said the most severe attacks happened while they were sleeping. A month later, in January 2021, Heidi’s health suddenly fell apart with a thyroid cancer diagnosis and bizarre disintegration of her collarbone. Since, Chris has been diagnosed with over 40 injuries including a traumatic brain injury connected to Directed Energy Exposure. These mysterious brain injuries among spies, diplomats and military personnel are known as Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. While Chris, a retired military officer, has access to specialized DoW medical programs, Heidi has injuries that civilian healthcare struggles to understand. Asked why she is coming forward, Heidi said the government should establish a protocol for supporting and treating injured family members and their children. Heidi emphasized that civilian healthcare treats symptoms but it doesn’t address the root cause. Heidi is also urging the US government to acknowledge Directed Energy Attacks on US government personnel and family members who are collateral damage. Every interview has a moment that can move you. Listen as Heidi and Chris describe the DEW attacks that could have injured their children, including one son who is critically ill. Part 1 of our investigation posted February 26. Heidi’s Story is Part 2. A DoW spokesperson declined to comment for our investigation. We will provide an update, if that changes. false full 18 e36928c7-9f3e-43ee-91ae-1827621b7307 Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism on American Soil EXCLUSIVE: Retired Lieutenant Colonel In US Space Force Breaks His Silence And Accuses Russia of Directed Energy “Terrorism” on American Soil Advocates For Injured DoW Personnel, Should Receive Purple Heart for Debilitating Neurological Conditions. At Least One Purple Heart Has Been Denied. Under the Biden Administration, Defense Health Agency Policy Suppressed Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnoses for Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. In his first on-camera interview, the retired military officer, we agreed to call “Chris,” details five separate Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) attacks at his Northern Virginia home throughout 2020. His wife Heidi is collateral damage in the attack. Chris says the attacks caused over 40 injuries, including TBI and PTSD, which have been validated as “service connected” by VA records with 100% permanent disability. He attributes the attacks to Russia targeting his classified intel work, links to prior surveillance, and reveals that his wife was collateral damage. Chris is urging full U.S. Government acknowledgment to counter this evolving threat. Straight to the Point: Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism On American Soil

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:07:31 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/directed-energy-weapon-terrorism-on-american-soil-K_UuFgZZ EXCLUSIVE: Retired Lieutenant Colonel In US Space Force Breaks His Silence And Accuses Russia of Directed Energy “Terrorism” on American Soil Advocates For Injured DoW Personnel, Should Receive Purple Heart for Debilitating Neurological Conditions. At Least One Purple Heart Has Been Denied. Under the Biden Administration, Defense Health Agency Policy Suppressed Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnoses for Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. In his first on-camera interview, the retired military officer, we agreed to call “Chris,” details five separate Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) attacks at his Northern Virginia home throughout 2020. His wife Heidi is collateral damage in the attack. Chris says the attacks caused over 40 injuries, including TBI and PTSD, which have been validated as “service connected” by VA records with 100% permanent disability. He attributes the attacks to Russia targeting his classified intel work, links to prior surveillance, and reveals that his wife was collateral damage. Chris is urging full U.S. Government acknowledgment to counter this evolving threat. Straight to the Point: Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism On American Soil

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism on American Soil darius derakshan 00:16:53 EXCLUSIVE: Retired Lieutenant Colonel In US Space Force Breaks His Silence And Accuses Russia of Directed Energy “Terrorism” on American Soil Advocates For Injured DoW Personnel, Should Receive Purple Heart for Debilitating Neurological Conditions. At Least One Purple Heart Has Been Denied. Under the Biden Administration, Defense Health Agency Policy Suppressed Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnoses for Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. In his first on-camera interview, the retired military officer, we agreed to call “Chris,” details five separate Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) attacks at his Northern Virginia home throughout 2020. His wife Heidi is collateral damage in the attack. Chris says the attacks caused over 40 injuries, including TBI and PTSD, which have been validated as “service connected” by VA records with 100% permanent disability. He attributes the attacks to Russia targeting his classified intel work, links to prior surveillance, and reveals that his wife was collateral damage. Chris is urging full U.S. Government acknowledgment to counter this evolving threat. Straight to the Point: Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism On American Soil EXCLUSIVE: Retired Lieutenant Colonel In US Space Force Breaks His Silence And Accuses Russia of Directed Energy “Terrorism” on American Soil Advocates For Injured DoW Personnel, Should Receive Purple Heart for Debilitating Neurological Conditions. At Least One Purple Heart Has Been Denied. Under the Biden Administration, Defense Health Agency Policy Suppressed Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnoses for Havana Syndrome or Anomalous Health Incidents. In his first on-camera interview, the retired military officer, we agreed to call “Chris,” details five separate Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) attacks at his Northern Virginia home throughout 2020. His wife Heidi is collateral damage in the attack. Chris says the attacks caused over 40 injuries, including TBI and PTSD, which have been validated as “service connected” by VA records with 100% permanent disability. He attributes the attacks to Russia targeting his classified intel work, links to prior surveillance, and reveals that his wife was collateral damage. Chris is urging full U.S. Government acknowledgment to counter this evolving threat. Straight to the Point: Directed Energy Weapon Terrorism On American Soil false full 17 d974bf1f-9a27-4ffa-bcc6-dc3a287d3b9a Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools Top Attorney Claims “Epidemic of Sexual Abuse” in California Public Schools by Teachers, Coaches, or School Employees And Reveals That New Data Suggests 17% of Students Nationwide Will Face Sexual Misconduct During Their Public Education This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with a leading Attorney John Manly, who represented victims of USA Olympic Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. Manly alleges that powerful teachers unions and failures in mandatory reporting requirements are enabling widespread sexual abuse by “passing the trash,” a practice in which he says problematic teachers are quietly reassigned after allegations rather than being fired and prosecuted. Straight to the Point: Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:03:14 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/sexual-abuse-epidemic-in-public-schools-fm5096Mh Top Attorney Claims “Epidemic of Sexual Abuse” in California Public Schools by Teachers, Coaches, or School Employees And Reveals That New Data Suggests 17% of Students Nationwide Will Face Sexual Misconduct During Their Public Education This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with a leading Attorney John Manly, who represented victims of USA Olympic Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. Manly alleges that powerful teachers unions and failures in mandatory reporting requirements are enabling widespread sexual abuse by “passing the trash,” a practice in which he says problematic teachers are quietly reassigned after allegations rather than being fired and prosecuted. Straight to the Point: Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools darius derakshan 00:17:34 Top Attorney Claims “Epidemic of Sexual Abuse” in California Public Schools by Teachers, Coaches, or School Employees And Reveals That New Data Suggests 17% of Students Nationwide Will Face Sexual Misconduct During Their Public Education This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with a leading Attorney John Manly, who represented victims of USA Olympic Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. Manly alleges that powerful teachers unions and failures in mandatory reporting requirements are enabling widespread sexual abuse by “passing the trash,” a practice in which he says problematic teachers are quietly reassigned after allegations rather than being fired and prosecuted. Straight to the Point: Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools Top Attorney Claims “Epidemic of Sexual Abuse” in California Public Schools by Teachers, Coaches, or School Employees And Reveals That New Data Suggests 17% of Students Nationwide Will Face Sexual Misconduct During Their Public Education This week on Straight to the Point I sat down with a leading Attorney John Manly, who represented victims of USA Olympic Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. Manly alleges that powerful teachers unions and failures in mandatory reporting requirements are enabling widespread sexual abuse by “passing the trash,” a practice in which he says problematic teachers are quietly reassigned after allegations rather than being fired and prosecuted. Straight to the Point: Sexual Abuse Epidemic in Public Schools false full 16 d4e66cca-c85c-4c3b-9b35-578739e0c3ec Minneapolis Signal Leaks Former ATF Senior Executive and Acting Director of FBI Counterterrorism Forensics Center Says Investigation Into Anti-ICE Protestors Signal Operations Could Result in Federal Conspiracy Case And That Viral Videos of These Incidents Don’t Tell The Full Story Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:57:16 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/minneapolis-signal-leaks-xdEL_zJV Former ATF Senior Executive and Acting Director of FBI Counterterrorism Forensics Center Says Investigation Into Anti-ICE Protestors Signal Operations Could Result in Federal Conspiracy Case And That Viral Videos of These Incidents Don’t Tell The Full Story Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Minneapolis Signal Leaks darius derakshan 00:23:45 Former ATF Senior Executive and Acting Director of FBI Counterterrorism Forensics Center Says Investigation Into Anti-ICE Protestors Signal Operations Could Result in Federal Conspiracy Case And That Viral Videos of These Incidents Don’t Tell The Full Story Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more Former ATF Senior Executive and Acting Director of FBI Counterterrorism Forensics Center Says Investigation Into Anti-ICE Protestors Signal Operations Could Result in Federal Conspiracy Case And That Viral Videos of These Incidents Don’t Tell The Full Story Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more false full 15 f24bd62d-233a-441d-936f-1974ba8b6c6e The Epstein Files EPSTEIN FILES FALLOUT: “No Doubt,” Information Gathered By Jeffrey Epstein Looks Like “Intelligence Collection Operation,” Claims Former FBI Special Agent; Says Advancements In AI Tools Could Help “Speed Up” The Process of Reviewing Millions of Documents But Worries “Statue of Limitations” On Many Crimes Has Been Allowed To Run Out “He [Epstein] went after people or he had connections to people that had connections to national security or huge technological advances. An intel operation would greatly benefit and be able to not only understand what other world leaders are doing, but be able to influence what they're doing.” “This has huge political ramifications and global ramifications… way above the decisions that even a supervisor in the FBI would make.” Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more 

Straight to the Point: The Epstein Files 

00:40 New Criminal Charges: Opening “Pandora’s Box” 

01:44 Ghislaine Maxwell Takes The Fifth 

02:20 New Lines of Inquiry: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor 

04:10 How To Investigate Allegations That Victims Were “Buried” On Epstein Property 

06:10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Makes Tracking Down Old Leads Possible 

07:50 Former FBI Special Agent: Epstein Case Looks Like “Intelligence Gathering Operation” 

10:10 FBI Interview Summaries 

11:04 How To Tackle Bill Gates Records 1

1:55 Party Drugs: Oxycodone, Vicodin, Ketamine…. 

14:15 Was The Right Move to Release The Files 

@thelatmg @latimesstudios_

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:58:44 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/the-epstein-files-ysajKXPO EPSTEIN FILES FALLOUT: “No Doubt,” Information Gathered By Jeffrey Epstein Looks Like “Intelligence Collection Operation,” Claims Former FBI Special Agent; Says Advancements In AI Tools Could Help “Speed Up” The Process of Reviewing Millions of Documents But Worries “Statue of Limitations” On Many Crimes Has Been Allowed To Run Out “He [Epstein] went after people or he had connections to people that had connections to national security or huge technological advances. An intel operation would greatly benefit and be able to not only understand what other world leaders are doing, but be able to influence what they're doing.” “This has huge political ramifications and global ramifications… way above the decisions that even a supervisor in the FBI would make.” Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more 

Straight to the Point: The Epstein Files 

00:40 New Criminal Charges: Opening “Pandora’s Box” 

01:44 Ghislaine Maxwell Takes The Fifth 

02:20 New Lines of Inquiry: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor 

04:10 How To Investigate Allegations That Victims Were “Buried” On Epstein Property 

06:10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Makes Tracking Down Old Leads Possible 

07:50 Former FBI Special Agent: Epstein Case Looks Like “Intelligence Gathering Operation” 

10:10 FBI Interview Summaries 

11:04 How To Tackle Bill Gates Records 1

1:55 Party Drugs: Oxycodone, Vicodin, Ketamine…. 

14:15 Was The Right Move to Release The Files 

@thelatmg @latimesstudios_

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> The Epstein Files darius derakshan 00:17:01 EPSTEIN FILES FALLOUT: “No Doubt,” Information Gathered By Jeffrey Epstein Looks Like “Intelligence Collection Operation,” Claims Former FBI Special Agent; Says Advancements In AI Tools Could Help “Speed Up” The Process of Reviewing Millions of Documents But Worries “Statue of Limitations” On Many Crimes Has Been Allowed To Run Out “He [Epstein] went after people or he had connections to people that had connections to national security or huge technological advances. An intel operation would greatly benefit and be able to not only understand what other world leaders are doing, but be able to influence what they're doing.” “This has huge political ramifications and global ramifications… way above the decisions that even a supervisor in the FBI would make.” Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more Straight to the Point: The Epstein Files 00:40 New Criminal Charges: Opening “Pandora’s Box” 01:44 Ghislaine Maxwell Takes The Fifth 02:20 New Lines of Inquiry: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor 04:10 How To Investigate Allegations That Victims Were “Buried” On Epstein Property 06:10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Makes Tracking Down Old Leads Possible 07:50 Former FBI Special Agent: Epstein Case Looks Like “Intelligence Gathering Operation” 10:10 FBI Interview Summaries 11:04 How To Tackle Bill Gates Records 11:55 Party Drugs: Oxycodone, Vicodin, Ketamine…. 14:15 Was The Right Move to Release The Files @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ EPSTEIN FILES FALLOUT: “No Doubt,” Information Gathered By Jeffrey Epstein Looks Like “Intelligence Collection Operation,” Claims Former FBI Special Agent; Says Advancements In AI Tools Could Help “Speed Up” The Process of Reviewing Millions of Documents But Worries “Statue of Limitations” On Many Crimes Has Been Allowed To Run Out “He [Epstein] went after people or he had connections to people that had connections to national security or huge technological advances. An intel operation would greatly benefit and be able to not only understand what other world leaders are doing, but be able to influence what they're doing.” “This has huge political ramifications and global ramifications… way above the decisions that even a supervisor in the FBI would make.” Independent Content; See join.latimes.com/cc for more Straight to the Point: The Epstein Files 00:40 New Criminal Charges: Opening “Pandora’s Box” 01:44 Ghislaine Maxwell Takes The Fifth 02:20 New Lines of Inquiry: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor 04:10 How To Investigate Allegations That Victims Were “Buried” On Epstein Property 06:10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Makes Tracking Down Old Leads Possible 07:50 Former FBI Special Agent: Epstein Case Looks Like “Intelligence Gathering Operation” 10:10 FBI Interview Summaries 11:04 How To Tackle Bill Gates Records 11:55 Party Drugs: Oxycodone, Vicodin, Ketamine…. 14:15 Was The Right Move to Release The Files @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ false full 14 9b4eae82-01a1-417d-a0d5-c210b8e7553c Independent Journalism Will Dominate 2026 In 2025, our team bet big on independent journalism. Trust in mainstream media hit new lows as independent journalism exploded on X. In the spirit of transparency, and as an investment in the future of independent journalism, we are releasing the “untold story” of my Hunter Biden reporting at CBS News to the public. Recorded in 2024, this full 22+ minute video goes in depth on the controversy surrounding my investigation, as the network’s senior investigative correspondent, starting in October 2020. At that time, CBS News was under different management, and did not respond to our questions seeking comment. As we enter 2026, we are proud to continue partnering with a company that understands that independent media will not bend to corporate pressure over the public’s right to know. In this first-of-its-kind partnership with the La Times Media Group, we retain full editorial control of our show. Starting today, Straight To The Point will now air every Thursday, delivering exclusive newsmakers interviews, investigations that demand accountability, and facts only journalism. And to our subscribers, thank you for supporting our independent reporting, we could not do this without you! Straight to the Point: How CBS News Blocked The Hunter Biden Laptop Story

 00:00 Introductions 

00:49 Joining CBS News | November 2019 

01:54 CBS Termination | February 2024 

03:06 The Hunter Biden Story 

04:12 "The Laptop Can't Be Verified" | 60 Minutes 

04:49 "Russian Disinformation Campaign" 

07:02 Hunter Biden & The CBS Newsroom 

10:38 CBS Executives: Restrictions On Elon Musk Interview 

12:25 CBS Termination Fallout & Impact on Veterans 

15:28 The Kamala Harris Edit | 60 Minutes 

17:18 Catherine Herridge Reports | Building a Digital Newsroom 

20:25 Standing Up for Journalism

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:52:49 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/independent-journalism-will-dominate-2026-YpgVVSJh In 2025, our team bet big on independent journalism. Trust in mainstream media hit new lows as independent journalism exploded on X. In the spirit of transparency, and as an investment in the future of independent journalism, we are releasing the “untold story” of my Hunter Biden reporting at CBS News to the public. Recorded in 2024, this full 22+ minute video goes in depth on the controversy surrounding my investigation, as the network’s senior investigative correspondent, starting in October 2020. At that time, CBS News was under different management, and did not respond to our questions seeking comment. As we enter 2026, we are proud to continue partnering with a company that understands that independent media will not bend to corporate pressure over the public’s right to know. In this first-of-its-kind partnership with the La Times Media Group, we retain full editorial control of our show. Starting today, Straight To The Point will now air every Thursday, delivering exclusive newsmakers interviews, investigations that demand accountability, and facts only journalism. And to our subscribers, thank you for supporting our independent reporting, we could not do this without you! Straight to the Point: How CBS News Blocked The Hunter Biden Laptop Story

 00:00 Introductions 

00:49 Joining CBS News | November 2019 

01:54 CBS Termination | February 2024 

03:06 The Hunter Biden Story 

04:12 "The Laptop Can't Be Verified" | 60 Minutes 

04:49 "Russian Disinformation Campaign" 

07:02 Hunter Biden & The CBS Newsroom 

10:38 CBS Executives: Restrictions On Elon Musk Interview 

12:25 CBS Termination Fallout & Impact on Veterans 

15:28 The Kamala Harris Edit | 60 Minutes 

17:18 Catherine Herridge Reports | Building a Digital Newsroom 

20:25 Standing Up for Journalism

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Independent Journalism Will Dominate 2026 darius derakshan 00:24:37 In 2025, our team bet big on independent journalism. Trust in mainstream media hit new lows as independent journalism exploded on X. In the spirit of transparency, and as an investment in the future of independent journalism, we are releasing the “untold story” of my Hunter Biden reporting at CBS News to the public. Recorded in 2024, this full 22+ minute video goes in depth on the controversy surrounding my investigation, as the network’s senior investigative correspondent, starting in October 2020. At that time, CBS News was under different management, and did not respond to our questions seeking comment. As we enter 2026, we are proud to continue partnering with a company that understands that independent media will not bend to corporate pressure over the public’s right to know. In this first-of-its-kind partnership with the La Times Media Group, we retain full editorial control of our show. Starting today, Straight To The Point will now air every Thursday, delivering exclusive newsmakers interviews, investigations that demand accountability, and facts only journalism. And to our subscribers, thank you for supporting our independent reporting, we could not do this without you! Straight to the Point: How CBS News Blocked The Hunter Biden Laptop Story 00:00 Introductions 00:49 Joining CBS News | November 2019 01:54 CBS Termination | February 2024 03:06 The Hunter Biden Story 04:12 "The Laptop Can't Be Verified" | 60 Minutes 04:49 "Russian Disinformation Campaign" 07:02 Hunter Biden & The CBS Newsroom 10:38 CBS Executives: Restrictions On Elon Musk Interview 12:25 CBS Termination Fallout & Impact on Veterans 15:28 The Kamala Harris Edit | 60 Minutes 17:18 Catherine Herridge Reports | Building a Digital Newsroom 20:25 Standing Up for Journalism In 2025, our team bet big on independent journalism. Trust in mainstream media hit new lows as independent journalism exploded on X. In the spirit of transparency, and as an investment in the future of independent journalism, we are releasing the “untold story” of my Hunter Biden reporting at CBS News to the public. Recorded in 2024, this full 22+ minute video goes in depth on the controversy surrounding my investigation, as the network’s senior investigative correspondent, starting in October 2020. At that time, CBS News was under different management, and did not respond to our questions seeking comment. As we enter 2026, we are proud to continue partnering with a company that understands that independent media will not bend to corporate pressure over the public’s right to know. In this first-of-its-kind partnership with the La Times Media Group, we retain full editorial control of our show. Starting today, Straight To The Point will now air every Thursday, delivering exclusive newsmakers interviews, investigations that demand accountability, and facts only journalism. And to our subscribers, thank you for supporting our independent reporting, we could not do this without you! Straight to the Point: How CBS News Blocked The Hunter Biden Laptop Story 00:00 Introductions 00:49 Joining CBS News | November 2019 01:54 CBS Termination | February 2024 03:06 The Hunter Biden Story 04:12 "The Laptop Can't Be Verified" | 60 Minutes 04:49 "Russian Disinformation Campaign" 07:02 Hunter Biden & The CBS Newsroom 10:38 CBS Executives: Restrictions On Elon Musk Interview 12:25 CBS Termination Fallout & Impact on Veterans 15:28 The Kamala Harris Edit | 60 Minutes 17:18 Catherine Herridge Reports | Building a Digital Newsroom 20:25 Standing Up for Journalism false full 10 3cef0788-7455-4203-8f10-e1d7f15a60ac Chairman Jim Jordan on Trump, Jack Smith and More From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: With violence raging against ICE in Minnesota, @Jim_Jordan said the GOP midterm strategy should be to “tell them what we did and then frankly also remind the voters, the left is crazy.” “It's crazy not to have a border. It's crazy not to fund the police. It's crazy to say you want to abolish ICE,” Jordan said. “It is crazy to say men should compete against women in sports…So I think this campaign is so basic, but you got to go tell the voters” Jordan also weighed in on recent Judiciary Committee hearings, saying “No one gets a pass.” - House will hold Clintons in Contempt if it comes to a vote - Jack Smith no different than Comey, all options on the table - More Than A Dozen GOP Lawmakers Phone Records Collected By Smith - “Facts and Evidence Are There” To Indict Former CIA Director Brennan 

00:00 Intro 

00:35 Jack Smith: “Everything is on the table” 

1:20 This was political: “Jack Smith was no different than Comey” 

03:18 Jordan believes more than a dozen GOP lawmakers had phone logs collected by Jack Smith 

03:55 “It is really important that we as Americans never forget, never ever forget what they did to the guy we elected president, twice.” 

05:30 No independent confirmation of JAN 6 star witness 

06:45 Does Liz Cheney get a pass? 

07:55 DOJ: Epstein Files deadline, next steps 

09:00 Predicts Full House holds Clintons in Contempt of Congress 

10:05 House Speaker backs push to impeach judges over “egregious abuses” 

11:28 Articles of Impeachment: Judge Boasberg 

11:47 Polymarket Odds on Midterm elections 

12:05 Midterms: “Tell them what we did, then frankly remind the voters the left is crazy” 

13:25 Can the DOJ still bring criminal charges against Comey? 

14:15 Jordan on former CIA Director Brennan: “I think he should definitely be indicted” 

15:25 “One of the most arrogant individuals. It was almost like, ‘How dare you ask me questions? I'm (former DNI) James Clapper, I’m so much smarter than you hillbillies from Ohio.” 

16:05 Predicts Strzok and Page keep DOJ/FBI financial settlements 

16:59 Biden/Garland Justice Department holdovers stalling cases for AG Bondi 

19:28 Independent Media: “In a fair fight, conservative principles, First Amendment win out” 

20:25 GOP toll records can be more revealing than the content of the phone calls In a recent letter, Brennan’s attorney accused the Trump DOJ of “Judge-shopping” in the former CIA Director’s case. 

An attorney for Cassidy Hutchinson has not responded to our requests for comment.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:52:24 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/chairman-jim-jordan-on-trump-jack-smith-and-more-PlLMOab8 From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: With violence raging against ICE in Minnesota, @Jim_Jordan said the GOP midterm strategy should be to “tell them what we did and then frankly also remind the voters, the left is crazy.” “It's crazy not to have a border. It's crazy not to fund the police. It's crazy to say you want to abolish ICE,” Jordan said. “It is crazy to say men should compete against women in sports…So I think this campaign is so basic, but you got to go tell the voters” Jordan also weighed in on recent Judiciary Committee hearings, saying “No one gets a pass.” - House will hold Clintons in Contempt if it comes to a vote - Jack Smith no different than Comey, all options on the table - More Than A Dozen GOP Lawmakers Phone Records Collected By Smith - “Facts and Evidence Are There” To Indict Former CIA Director Brennan 

00:00 Intro 

00:35 Jack Smith: “Everything is on the table” 

1:20 This was political: “Jack Smith was no different than Comey” 

03:18 Jordan believes more than a dozen GOP lawmakers had phone logs collected by Jack Smith 

03:55 “It is really important that we as Americans never forget, never ever forget what they did to the guy we elected president, twice.” 

05:30 No independent confirmation of JAN 6 star witness 

06:45 Does Liz Cheney get a pass? 

07:55 DOJ: Epstein Files deadline, next steps 

09:00 Predicts Full House holds Clintons in Contempt of Congress 

10:05 House Speaker backs push to impeach judges over “egregious abuses” 

11:28 Articles of Impeachment: Judge Boasberg 

11:47 Polymarket Odds on Midterm elections 

12:05 Midterms: “Tell them what we did, then frankly remind the voters the left is crazy” 

13:25 Can the DOJ still bring criminal charges against Comey? 

14:15 Jordan on former CIA Director Brennan: “I think he should definitely be indicted” 

15:25 “One of the most arrogant individuals. It was almost like, ‘How dare you ask me questions? I'm (former DNI) James Clapper, I’m so much smarter than you hillbillies from Ohio.” 

16:05 Predicts Strzok and Page keep DOJ/FBI financial settlements 

16:59 Biden/Garland Justice Department holdovers stalling cases for AG Bondi 

19:28 Independent Media: “In a fair fight, conservative principles, First Amendment win out” 

20:25 GOP toll records can be more revealing than the content of the phone calls In a recent letter, Brennan’s attorney accused the Trump DOJ of “Judge-shopping” in the former CIA Director’s case. 

An attorney for Cassidy Hutchinson has not responded to our requests for comment.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Chairman Jim Jordan on Trump, Jack Smith and More darius derakshan 00:22:07 From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: With violence raging against ICE in Minnesota, @Jim_Jordan said the GOP midterm strategy should be to “tell them what we did and then frankly also remind the voters, the left is crazy.” “It's crazy not to have a border. It's crazy not to fund the police. It's crazy to say you want to abolish ICE,” Jordan said. “It is crazy to say men should compete against women in sports…So I think this campaign is so basic, but you got to go tell the voters” Jordan also weighed in on recent Judiciary Committee hearings, saying “No one gets a pass.” - House will hold Clintons in Contempt if it comes to a vote - Jack Smith no different than Comey, all options on the table - More Than A Dozen GOP Lawmakers Phone Records Collected By Smith - “Facts and Evidence Are There” To Indict Former CIA Director Brennan 00:00 Intro 00:35 Jack Smith: “Everything is on the table” 1:20 This was political: “Jack Smith was no different than Comey” 03:18 Jordan believes more than a dozen GOP lawmakers had phone logs collected by Jack Smith 03:55 “It is really important that we as Americans never forget, never ever forget what they did to the guy we elected president, twice.” 05:30 No independent confirmation of JAN 6 star witness 06:45 Does Liz Cheney get a pass? 07:55 DOJ: Epstein Files deadline, next steps 09:00 Predicts Full House holds Clintons in Contempt of Congress 10:05 House Speaker backs push to impeach judges over “egregious abuses” 11:28 Articles of Impeachment: Judge Boasberg 11:47 Polymarket Odds on Midterm elections 12:05 Midterms: “Tell them what we did, then frankly remind the voters the left is crazy” 13:25 Can the DOJ still bring criminal charges against Comey? 14:15 Jordan on former CIA Director Brennan: “I think he should definitely be indicted” 15:25 “One of the most arrogant individuals. It was almost like, ‘How dare you ask me questions? I'm (former DNI) James Clapper, I’m so much smarter than you hillbillies from Ohio.” 16:05 Predicts Strzok and Page keep DOJ/FBI financial settlements 16:59 Biden/Garland Justice Department holdovers stalling cases for AG Bondi 19:28 Independent Media: “In a fair fight, conservative principles, First Amendment win out” 20:25 GOP toll records can be more revealing than the content of the phone calls In a recent letter, Brennan’s attorney accused the Trump DOJ of “Judge-shopping” in the former CIA Director’s case. An attorney for Cassidy Hutchinson has not responded to our requests for comment. From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: With violence raging against ICE in Minnesota, @Jim_Jordan said the GOP midterm strategy should be to “tell them what we did and then frankly also remind the voters, the left is crazy.” “It's crazy not to have a border. It's crazy not to fund the police. It's crazy to say you want to abolish ICE,” Jordan said. “It is crazy to say men should compete against women in sports…So I think this campaign is so basic, but you got to go tell the voters” Jordan also weighed in on recent Judiciary Committee hearings, saying “No one gets a pass.” - House will hold Clintons in Contempt if it comes to a vote - Jack Smith no different than Comey, all options on the table - More Than A Dozen GOP Lawmakers Phone Records Collected By Smith - “Facts and Evidence Are There” To Indict Former CIA Director Brennan 00:00 Intro 00:35 Jack Smith: “Everything is on the table” 1:20 This was political: “Jack Smith was no different than Comey” 03:18 Jordan believes more than a dozen GOP lawmakers had phone logs collected by Jack Smith 03:55 “It is really important that we as Americans never forget, never ever forget what they did to the guy we elected president, twice.” 05:30 No independent confirmation of JAN 6 star witness 06:45 Does Liz Cheney get a pass? 07:55 DOJ: Epstein Files deadline, next steps 09:00 Predicts Full House holds Clintons in Contempt of Congress 10:05 House Speaker backs push to impeach judges over “egregious abuses” 11:28 Articles of Impeachment: Judge Boasberg 11:47 Polymarket Odds on Midterm elections 12:05 Midterms: “Tell them what we did, then frankly remind the voters the left is crazy” 13:25 Can the DOJ still bring criminal charges against Comey? 14:15 Jordan on former CIA Director Brennan: “I think he should definitely be indicted” 15:25 “One of the most arrogant individuals. It was almost like, ‘How dare you ask me questions? I'm (former DNI) James Clapper, I’m so much smarter than you hillbillies from Ohio.” 16:05 Predicts Strzok and Page keep DOJ/FBI financial settlements 16:59 Biden/Garland Justice Department holdovers stalling cases for AG Bondi 19:28 Independent Media: “In a fair fight, conservative principles, First Amendment win out” 20:25 GOP toll records can be more revealing than the content of the phone calls In a recent letter, Brennan’s attorney accused the Trump DOJ of “Judge-shopping” in the former CIA Director’s case. An attorney for Cassidy Hutchinson has not responded to our requests for comment. false full 13 3c835015-6c8b-4fa5-83bb-e03061922941 Iran’s Toxic Tactics From LA Times Media Group | BREAKING: Exclusively obtained military records suggest Iran’s January 2020 ballistic missile attack on al-Asad Air Base targeted US troops with numerous toxic agents, including radiation. Six years after the attack, US service members that were involved are now battling traumatic brain injuries and emerging cancers they blame on the toxic fallout. This week on "Straight to the Point", Catherine Herridge sat down with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Al Johnson and Retired Army JAG Al Broadbent who said a new “Agent Orange” crisis may be on our hands. 

01:53 After Iran’s attack, six years of struggle for US service members 

02:42 Traumatic Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges, Homelessness

04:10 After Iran’s ballistic missile attack, military testing identified toxic agents, including radiation 

04:40 Thyroid cancers emerging 

05:20 Did Iran use a “dirty” warhead against US service members? 

06:21 Another “Agent Orange” 

07:00 Johnson: No organized surveillance, preventative screening program for al-Asad cohort established under Biden DoD 

07:40 Trump Administration can take action right now to limit negative effects of blast injuries from Iran’s attack 

09:26 US soldier’s suicide linked to his traumatic brain injury from Iran’s attack 

11:10 Iran’s attack was designed to kill every American on the base after the US assassinated a top Iranian General 

12:10 Courts dismissed lawsuit against Iran because no US service member was killed in January 2020, only severely injured 

13:19 Biden Justice Department broke with long standing legal precedent: US service members took back seat to Iran 

14:32 No accountability for Iran: +80 US service members and contractors with Traumatic Brain Injuries 

15:10 @SecVetAffairs, @SecWar can make comprehensive medical surveillance and screening program possible for injured soldiers 

15:48 Ongoing radiation risk? Dosimeters issued at al-Asad base 

16:33 Is Iran using a new tactic, contaminated warheads against adversaries? 

18:00 What’s next: In the courts and for the al-Asad soldiers 

19:24 Department of War responds to the investigation

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:42:27 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/irans-toxic-tactics-5xVwe7rF From LA Times Media Group | BREAKING: Exclusively obtained military records suggest Iran’s January 2020 ballistic missile attack on al-Asad Air Base targeted US troops with numerous toxic agents, including radiation. Six years after the attack, US service members that were involved are now battling traumatic brain injuries and emerging cancers they blame on the toxic fallout. This week on "Straight to the Point", Catherine Herridge sat down with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Al Johnson and Retired Army JAG Al Broadbent who said a new “Agent Orange” crisis may be on our hands. 

01:53 After Iran’s attack, six years of struggle for US service members 

02:42 Traumatic Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges, Homelessness

04:10 After Iran’s ballistic missile attack, military testing identified toxic agents, including radiation 

04:40 Thyroid cancers emerging 

05:20 Did Iran use a “dirty” warhead against US service members? 

06:21 Another “Agent Orange” 

07:00 Johnson: No organized surveillance, preventative screening program for al-Asad cohort established under Biden DoD 

07:40 Trump Administration can take action right now to limit negative effects of blast injuries from Iran’s attack 

09:26 US soldier’s suicide linked to his traumatic brain injury from Iran’s attack 

11:10 Iran’s attack was designed to kill every American on the base after the US assassinated a top Iranian General 

12:10 Courts dismissed lawsuit against Iran because no US service member was killed in January 2020, only severely injured 

13:19 Biden Justice Department broke with long standing legal precedent: US service members took back seat to Iran 

14:32 No accountability for Iran: +80 US service members and contractors with Traumatic Brain Injuries 

15:10 @SecVetAffairs, @SecWar can make comprehensive medical surveillance and screening program possible for injured soldiers 

15:48 Ongoing radiation risk? Dosimeters issued at al-Asad base 

16:33 Is Iran using a new tactic, contaminated warheads against adversaries? 

18:00 What’s next: In the courts and for the al-Asad soldiers 

19:24 Department of War responds to the investigation

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Iran’s Toxic Tactics darius derakshan 00:21:24 From LA Times Media Group | BREAKING: Exclusively obtained military records suggest Iran’s January 2020 ballistic missile attack on al-Asad Air Base targeted US troops with numerous toxic agents, including radiation. Six years after the attack, US service members that were involved are now battling traumatic brain injuries and emerging cancers they blame on the toxic fallout. This week on "Straight to the Point", Catherine Herridge sat down with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Al Johnson and Retired Army JAG Al Broadbent who said a new “Agent Orange” crisis may be on our hands. 01:53 After Iran’s attack, six years of struggle for US service members 02:42 Traumatic Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges, Homelessness 04:10 After Iran’s ballistic missile attack, military testing identified toxic agents, including radiation 04:40 Thyroid cancers emerging 05:20 Did Iran use a “dirty” warhead against US service members? 06:21 Another “Agent Orange” 07:00 Johnson: No organized surveillance, preventative screening program for al-Asad cohort established under Biden DoD 07:40 Trump Administration can take action right now to limit negative effects of blast injuries from Iran’s attack 09:26 US soldier’s suicide linked to his traumatic brain injury from Iran’s attack 11:10 Iran’s attack was designed to kill every American on the base after the US assassinated a top Iranian General 12:10 Courts dismissed lawsuit against Iran because no US service member was killed in January 2020, only severely injured 13:19 Biden Justice Department broke with long standing legal precedent: US service members took back seat to Iran 14:32 No accountability for Iran: +80 US service members and contractors with Traumatic Brain Injuries 15:10 @SecVetAffairs, @SecWar can make comprehensive medical surveillance and screening program possible for injured soldiers 15:48 Ongoing radiation risk? Dosimeters issued at al-Asad base 16:33 Is Iran using a new tactic, contaminated warheads against adversaries? 18:00 What’s next: In the courts and for the al-Asad soldiers 19:24 Department of War responds to the investigation From LA Times Media Group | BREAKING: Exclusively obtained military records suggest Iran’s January 2020 ballistic missile attack on al-Asad Air Base targeted US troops with numerous toxic agents, including radiation. Six years after the attack, US service members that were involved are now battling traumatic brain injuries and emerging cancers they blame on the toxic fallout. This week on "Straight to the Point", Catherine Herridge sat down with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Al Johnson and Retired Army JAG Al Broadbent who said a new “Agent Orange” crisis may be on our hands. 01:53 After Iran’s attack, six years of struggle for US service members 02:42 Traumatic Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges, Homelessness 04:10 After Iran’s ballistic missile attack, military testing identified toxic agents, including radiation 04:40 Thyroid cancers emerging 05:20 Did Iran use a “dirty” warhead against US service members? 06:21 Another “Agent Orange” 07:00 Johnson: No organized surveillance, preventative screening program for al-Asad cohort established under Biden DoD 07:40 Trump Administration can take action right now to limit negative effects of blast injuries from Iran’s attack 09:26 US soldier’s suicide linked to his traumatic brain injury from Iran’s attack 11:10 Iran’s attack was designed to kill every American on the base after the US assassinated a top Iranian General 12:10 Courts dismissed lawsuit against Iran because no US service member was killed in January 2020, only severely injured 13:19 Biden Justice Department broke with long standing legal precedent: US service members took back seat to Iran 14:32 No accountability for Iran: +80 US service members and contractors with Traumatic Brain Injuries 15:10 @SecVetAffairs, @SecWar can make comprehensive medical surveillance and screening program possible for injured soldiers 15:48 Ongoing radiation risk? Dosimeters issued at al-Asad base 16:33 Is Iran using a new tactic, contaminated warheads against adversaries? 18:00 What’s next: In the courts and for the al-Asad soldiers 19:24 Department of War responds to the investigation false full 12 474eb0e4-7721-4b73-a67c-8337f23ff79d Minnesota’s Somali-Linked Fraud From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer confirms he will ISSUE SUBPOENAS to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison and says he will hold both Minnesota Democrats in CONTEMPT OF CONGRESS if they won’t commit to testifying about alleged Somali Fraud happening in their state. According to Comer, new “credible Democrat whistleblowers” have come forward with more evidence, including documents. Comer told us he intends to refer Congresswoman Ilhan Omar to the House Ethics Committee, saying her family’s net worth has “skyrocketed” during her time in Congress. During our full sit-down with the Chairman, we also discussed the 2026 midterm elections, Republican chances of keeping the House, concerns that Democrats will impeach President Trump if they don’t, and Comer gave us an exclusive update on the investigation into Democrat fundraising giant ActBlue. Our team asked Governor Walz, AG Ellison, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, and the DOJ for comment. We will update if they respond. (00:00) Introduction 

01:20 Governor Tim Walz Subpoena 

01:57 Walz: Contempt of Congress 

03:13 Half a Dozen Whistleblowers With Receipts 

04:16 MN AG Keith Ellison “More Liability” Than Governor Walz, Subpoenas As Early As January 28 

06:14 Investigating Campaign Contributions to Walz 

07:20 Investigating AG Ellison Tapes and Campaign Contributions 

09:31 Comer: Congresswoman Omar “Top of the Suspect List” 

10:45 Ethics Committee Referral 

11:30 Will Investigate Alleged Fraud In Red States 

12:40 Investigating Larger Fraud Conspiracy: “Branching Out To Other States” 

14:25 Pay to Play? 

16:31 Disappointment: Criminal Referrals “Gathering Dust” on AG Bondi’s Desk 

18:28 Biggest Complaint Of Every Republican…"There Haven’t Been Enough Arrests” 

19:46 Debanking Americans: Biden Administration Pressure On Regulators? 

22:15 ActBlue Investigation Update: Action Before The Midterms 

25:25 Does Speaker Johnson Have Control GOP Conference? 

26:10 Midterms: If Democrats Take The House They Will Try To Impeach President Trump 

27:10 Polymarket Midterm Odds: Can GOP Hold the House? 

27:48 Comer Encouraged to Run For Kentucky Governor, Believes in Term Limits 

28:00 CBS News Vs Independent Journalism Which Is “On A Roll”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:55:38 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/minnesotas-somali-linked-fraud-5qmu_SQG From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer confirms he will ISSUE SUBPOENAS to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison and says he will hold both Minnesota Democrats in CONTEMPT OF CONGRESS if they won’t commit to testifying about alleged Somali Fraud happening in their state. According to Comer, new “credible Democrat whistleblowers” have come forward with more evidence, including documents. Comer told us he intends to refer Congresswoman Ilhan Omar to the House Ethics Committee, saying her family’s net worth has “skyrocketed” during her time in Congress. During our full sit-down with the Chairman, we also discussed the 2026 midterm elections, Republican chances of keeping the House, concerns that Democrats will impeach President Trump if they don’t, and Comer gave us an exclusive update on the investigation into Democrat fundraising giant ActBlue. Our team asked Governor Walz, AG Ellison, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, and the DOJ for comment. We will update if they respond. (00:00) Introduction 

01:20 Governor Tim Walz Subpoena 

01:57 Walz: Contempt of Congress 

03:13 Half a Dozen Whistleblowers With Receipts 

04:16 MN AG Keith Ellison “More Liability” Than Governor Walz, Subpoenas As Early As January 28 

06:14 Investigating Campaign Contributions to Walz 

07:20 Investigating AG Ellison Tapes and Campaign Contributions 

09:31 Comer: Congresswoman Omar “Top of the Suspect List” 

10:45 Ethics Committee Referral 

11:30 Will Investigate Alleged Fraud In Red States 

12:40 Investigating Larger Fraud Conspiracy: “Branching Out To Other States” 

14:25 Pay to Play? 

16:31 Disappointment: Criminal Referrals “Gathering Dust” on AG Bondi’s Desk 

18:28 Biggest Complaint Of Every Republican…"There Haven’t Been Enough Arrests” 

19:46 Debanking Americans: Biden Administration Pressure On Regulators? 

22:15 ActBlue Investigation Update: Action Before The Midterms 

25:25 Does Speaker Johnson Have Control GOP Conference? 

26:10 Midterms: If Democrats Take The House They Will Try To Impeach President Trump 

27:10 Polymarket Midterm Odds: Can GOP Hold the House? 

27:48 Comer Encouraged to Run For Kentucky Governor, Believes in Term Limits 

28:00 CBS News Vs Independent Journalism Which Is “On A Roll”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Minnesota’s Somali-Linked Fraud darius derakshan 00:31:32 From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer confirms he will ISSUE SUBPOENAS to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison and says he will hold both Minnesota Democrats in CONTEMPT OF CONGRESS if they won’t commit to testifying about alleged Somali Fraud happening in their state. According to Comer, new “credible Democrat whistleblowers” have come forward with more evidence, including documents. Comer told us he intends to refer Congresswoman Ilhan Omar to the House Ethics Committee, saying her family’s net worth has “skyrocketed” during her time in Congress. During our full sit-down with the Chairman, we also discussed the 2026 midterm elections, Republican chances of keeping the House, concerns that Democrats will impeach President Trump if they don’t, and Comer gave us an exclusive update on the investigation into Democrat fundraising giant ActBlue. Our team asked Governor Walz, AG Ellison, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, and the DOJ for comment. We will update if they respond. (00:00) Introduction 01:20 Governor Tim Walz Subpoena 01:57 Walz: Contempt of Congress 03:13 Half a Dozen Whistleblowers With Receipts 04:16 MN AG Keith Ellison “More Liability” Than Governor Walz, Subpoenas As Early As January 28 06:14 Investigating Campaign Contributions to Walz 07:20 Investigating AG Ellison Tapes and Campaign Contributions 09:31 Comer: Congresswoman Omar “Top of the Suspect List” 10:45 Ethics Committee Referral 11:30 Will Investigate Alleged Fraud In Red States 12:40 Investigating Larger Fraud Conspiracy: “Branching Out To Other States” 14:25 Pay to Play? 16:31 Disappointment: Criminal Referrals “Gathering Dust” on AG Bondi’s Desk 18:28 Biggest Complaint Of Every Republican…"There Haven’t Been Enough Arrests” 19:46 Debanking Americans: Biden Administration Pressure On Regulators? 22:15 ActBlue Investigation Update: Action Before The Midterms 25:25 Does Speaker Johnson Have Control GOP Conference? 26:10 Midterms: If Democrats Take The House They Will Try To Impeach President Trump 27:10 Polymarket Midterm Odds: Can GOP Hold the House? 27:48 Comer Encouraged to Run For Kentucky Governor, Believes in Term Limits 28:00 CBS News Vs Independent Journalism Which Is “On A Roll” From LA Times Media Group | EXCLUSIVE: House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer confirms he will ISSUE SUBPOENAS to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison and says he will hold both Minnesota Democrats in CONTEMPT OF CONGRESS if they won’t commit to testifying about alleged Somali Fraud happening in their state. According to Comer, new “credible Democrat whistleblowers” have come forward with more evidence, including documents. Comer told us he intends to refer Congresswoman Ilhan Omar to the House Ethics Committee, saying her family’s net worth has “skyrocketed” during her time in Congress. During our full sit-down with the Chairman, we also discussed the 2026 midterm elections, Republican chances of keeping the House, concerns that Democrats will impeach President Trump if they don’t, and Comer gave us an exclusive update on the investigation into Democrat fundraising giant ActBlue. Our team asked Governor Walz, AG Ellison, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, and the DOJ for comment. We will update if they respond. (00:00) Introduction 01:20 Governor Tim Walz Subpoena 01:57 Walz: Contempt of Congress 03:13 Half a Dozen Whistleblowers With Receipts 04:16 MN AG Keith Ellison “More Liability” Than Governor Walz, Subpoenas As Early As January 28 06:14 Investigating Campaign Contributions to Walz 07:20 Investigating AG Ellison Tapes and Campaign Contributions 09:31 Comer: Congresswoman Omar “Top of the Suspect List” 10:45 Ethics Committee Referral 11:30 Will Investigate Alleged Fraud In Red States 12:40 Investigating Larger Fraud Conspiracy: “Branching Out To Other States” 14:25 Pay to Play? 16:31 Disappointment: Criminal Referrals “Gathering Dust” on AG Bondi’s Desk 18:28 Biggest Complaint Of Every Republican…"There Haven’t Been Enough Arrests” 19:46 Debanking Americans: Biden Administration Pressure On Regulators? 22:15 ActBlue Investigation Update: Action Before The Midterms 25:25 Does Speaker Johnson Have Control GOP Conference? 26:10 Midterms: If Democrats Take The House They Will Try To Impeach President Trump 27:10 Polymarket Midterm Odds: Can GOP Hold the House? 27:48 Comer Encouraged to Run For Kentucky Governor, Believes in Term Limits 28:00 CBS News Vs Independent Journalism Which Is “On A Roll” false full 11 b300516c-16b5-4f9d-b41c-1d9cddcb2b1a Mamdani’s NYPD Crisis From LA Times Media Group | On January 1st, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani will become the mayor of New York City. Two recently retired NYPD veterans with more than five decades of law enforcement experience between them say a mass exodus of NYPD officers is likely and imminent. They blame Mamdani’s past and current positions on bail reform, defunding the police, and violent protests over the Trump Administration’s Immigration enforcement.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:27:13 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/mamdanis-nypd-crisis-qjKbuQhv From LA Times Media Group | On January 1st, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani will become the mayor of New York City. Two recently retired NYPD veterans with more than five decades of law enforcement experience between them say a mass exodus of NYPD officers is likely and imminent. They blame Mamdani’s past and current positions on bail reform, defunding the police, and violent protests over the Trump Administration’s Immigration enforcement.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Mamdani’s NYPD Crisis darius derakshan 00:28:22 From LA Times Media Group | On January 1st, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani will become the mayor of New York City. Two recently retired NYPD veterans with more than five decades of law enforcement experience between them say a mass exodus of NYPD officers is likely and imminent. They blame Mamdani’s past and current positions on bail reform, defunding the police, and violent protests over the Trump Administration’s Immigration enforcement. From LA Times Media Group | On January 1st, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani will become the mayor of New York City. Two recently retired NYPD veterans with more than five decades of law enforcement experience between them say a mass exodus of NYPD officers is likely and imminent. They blame Mamdani’s past and current positions on bail reform, defunding the police, and violent protests over the Trump Administration’s Immigration enforcement. false full 9 056c925a-d785-4f87-afc8-300ae7b9be9a Justice in 2026. Will Anyone Go To Prison? A Justice Department veteran and Trump classified documents attorney discusses potential criminal charges ahead for former FBI Director Comey, Russia Gate, FBI Burn Bags, Special Counsel Jack Smith, ARCTIC FROST, and the Biden Autopen…

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:18:54 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/justice-in-2026-will-anyone-go-to-prison-XIexhF99 A Justice Department veteran and Trump classified documents attorney discusses potential criminal charges ahead for former FBI Director Comey, Russia Gate, FBI Burn Bags, Special Counsel Jack Smith, ARCTIC FROST, and the Biden Autopen…

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Justice in 2026. Will Anyone Go To Prison? darius derakshan 00:22:17 A Justice Department veteran and Trump classified documents attorney discusses potential criminal charges ahead for former FBI Director Comey, Russia Gate, FBI Burn Bags, Special Counsel Jack Smith, ARCTIC FROST, and the Biden Autopen… A Justice Department veteran and Trump classified documents attorney discusses potential criminal charges ahead for former FBI Director Comey, Russia Gate, FBI Burn Bags, Special Counsel Jack Smith, ARCTIC FROST, and the Biden Autopen… false full 8 0bf4be21-2321-4c76-b61e-e5f122b55016 Rep. Elise Stefanik From LA Times Media Group | As Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, Stefanik is one of the most powerful women on Capitol Hill. Stefanik addresses divisions in the GOP, criticism of Speaker Johnson and running for NY governor as republicans face a high stakes mid-term election.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:49:50 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/rep-elise-stefanik-A0_mUZ9h From LA Times Media Group | As Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, Stefanik is one of the most powerful women on Capitol Hill. Stefanik addresses divisions in the GOP, criticism of Speaker Johnson and running for NY governor as republicans face a high stakes mid-term election.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Rep. Elise Stefanik darius derakshan 00:28:32 From LA Times Media Group | As Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, Stefanik is one of the most powerful women on Capitol Hill. Stefanik addresses divisions in the GOP, criticism of Speaker Johnson and running for NY governor as republicans face a high stakes mid-term election. From LA Times Media Group | As Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, Stefanik is one of the most powerful women on Capitol Hill. Stefanik addresses divisions in the GOP, criticism of Speaker Johnson and running for NY governor as republicans face a high stakes mid-term election. false full 7 c51c3d83-3454-490f-a55e-8147cb1b257f Directed Energy Weapons From LATMG | Exposing the Biden-Era Cover-Up Over the last year, whistleblowers from the CIA, State Department and Defense Experts came forward to our team to expose the false narrative that these attacks began in 2016 with a cluster of cases in Cuba. The debilitating neurological symptoms are commonly known as Havana Syndrome. Havana Syndrome survivors allege a government cover up to minimize the severity of their brain injuries and the cause of the attacks. In a new, exclusive interview, a former defense department staffer says she was hit with a directed energy weapon in 2015.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:38:52 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/directed-energy-weapons-3P4NwWHb From LATMG | Exposing the Biden-Era Cover-Up Over the last year, whistleblowers from the CIA, State Department and Defense Experts came forward to our team to expose the false narrative that these attacks began in 2016 with a cluster of cases in Cuba. The debilitating neurological symptoms are commonly known as Havana Syndrome. Havana Syndrome survivors allege a government cover up to minimize the severity of their brain injuries and the cause of the attacks. In a new, exclusive interview, a former defense department staffer says she was hit with a directed energy weapon in 2015.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Directed Energy Weapons darius derakshan 00:17:33 From LATMG | Exposing the Biden-Era Cover-Up Over the last year, whistleblowers from the CIA, State Department and Defense Experts came forward to our team to expose the false narrative that these attacks began in 2016 with a cluster of cases in Cuba. The debilitating neurological symptoms are commonly known as Havana Syndrome. Havana Syndrome survivors allege a government cover up to minimize the severity of their brain injuries and the cause of the attacks. In a new, exclusive interview, a former defense department staffer says she was hit with a directed energy weapon in 2015. From LATMG | Exposing the Biden-Era Cover-Up Over the last year, whistleblowers from the CIA, State Department and Defense Experts came forward to our team to expose the false narrative that these attacks began in 2016 with a cluster of cases in Cuba. The debilitating neurological symptoms are commonly known as Havana Syndrome. Havana Syndrome survivors allege a government cover up to minimize the severity of their brain injuries and the cause of the attacks. In a new, exclusive interview, a former defense department staffer says she was hit with a directed energy weapon in 2015. false full 6 9ad449e8-9ffb-46ae-b4b5-d95c06ecfc7c Headlines & Highlights From LA Times Media Group | This week on Straight to the Point, we curated a 12-minute video with the headlines and highlights from our exclusive interview with FBI Director Kash Patel. After our exclusive sit-down with Director Patel (11/24) we immediately posted the full interview because we don’t believe in holding back the news for some artificial corporate deadline. Headlines from our interview were picked up by multiple media outlets. That is the power of credible, independent journalism. Thank you for supporting Straight to the Point and our partnership @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ 

00:30 Attempted Assassination President Trump in Butler PA. 

01:15 Director Patel says Thomas Crooks “acted alone” and “no evidence” foreign involvement 02:35 What explains the discrepancy and confusion over Thomas Crooks' on-line activity? 

03:50 Russia Collusion investigation: FBI has “multiple ongoing matters” as part of a larger conspiracy case 0

5:10 Are former CIA Director Brennan, DNI Clapper and others in the clear? “The FBI is not in the business of exonerating people.” 

05:45 Five FBI ‘burn bags’ discovered at FBI HQ: Director Patel says the FBI knows who handled the burn bags and whether their intent was to preserve the records for the Trump administration or destroy the records 

08:30 Drug Trafficking Crackdown: How quickly will the FBI know if China cheats on the new deal to restrict and control Fentanyl recursors? 09:47 Patel says military strikes have reduced ‘without question’ the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela and other areas 

10:52 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Will the FBI meet the 30 day deadline 

11:57 As few redactions or blacked out sections on Epstein Files 

12:17 Is the new referral limited to democrats? Patel: ‘We'll just follow the facts. It's pretty simple. For this FBI.” 13:35 Are more charges possible with the new Epstein referral?

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:31:08 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/headlines-highlights-hDooTSbo From LA Times Media Group | This week on Straight to the Point, we curated a 12-minute video with the headlines and highlights from our exclusive interview with FBI Director Kash Patel. After our exclusive sit-down with Director Patel (11/24) we immediately posted the full interview because we don’t believe in holding back the news for some artificial corporate deadline. Headlines from our interview were picked up by multiple media outlets. That is the power of credible, independent journalism. Thank you for supporting Straight to the Point and our partnership @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ 

00:30 Attempted Assassination President Trump in Butler PA. 

01:15 Director Patel says Thomas Crooks “acted alone” and “no evidence” foreign involvement 02:35 What explains the discrepancy and confusion over Thomas Crooks' on-line activity? 

03:50 Russia Collusion investigation: FBI has “multiple ongoing matters” as part of a larger conspiracy case 0

5:10 Are former CIA Director Brennan, DNI Clapper and others in the clear? “The FBI is not in the business of exonerating people.” 

05:45 Five FBI ‘burn bags’ discovered at FBI HQ: Director Patel says the FBI knows who handled the burn bags and whether their intent was to preserve the records for the Trump administration or destroy the records 

08:30 Drug Trafficking Crackdown: How quickly will the FBI know if China cheats on the new deal to restrict and control Fentanyl recursors? 09:47 Patel says military strikes have reduced ‘without question’ the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela and other areas 

10:52 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Will the FBI meet the 30 day deadline 

11:57 As few redactions or blacked out sections on Epstein Files 

12:17 Is the new referral limited to democrats? Patel: ‘We'll just follow the facts. It's pretty simple. For this FBI.” 13:35 Are more charges possible with the new Epstein referral?

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Headlines & Highlights darius derakshan 00:15:12 From LA Times Media Group | This week on Straight to the Point, we curated a 12-minute video with the headlines and highlights from our exclusive interview with FBI Director Kash Patel. After our exclusive sit-down with Director Patel (11/24) we immediately posted the full interview because we don’t believe in holding back the news for some artificial corporate deadline. Headlines from our interview were picked up by multiple media outlets. That is the power of credible, independent journalism. Thank you for supporting Straight to the Point and our partnership @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ 00:30 Attempted Assassination President Trump in Butler PA. 01:15 Director Patel says Thomas Crooks “acted alone” and “no evidence” foreign involvement 02:35 What explains the discrepancy and confusion over Thomas Crooks' on-line activity? 03:50 Russia Collusion investigation: FBI has “multiple ongoing matters” as part of a larger conspiracy case 05:10 Are former CIA Director Brennan, DNI Clapper and others in the clear? “The FBI is not in the business of exonerating people.” 05:45 Five FBI ‘burn bags’ discovered at FBI HQ: Director Patel says the FBI knows who handled the burn bags and whether their intent was to preserve the records for the Trump administration or destroy the records 08:30 Drug Trafficking Crackdown: How quickly will the FBI know if China cheats on the new deal to restrict and control Fentanyl recursors? 09:47 Patel says military strikes have reduced ‘without question’ the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela and other areas 10:52 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Will the FBI meet the 30 day deadline 11:57 As few redactions or blacked out sections on Epstein Files 12:17 Is the new referral limited to democrats? Patel: ‘We'll just follow the facts. It's pretty simple. For this FBI.” 13:35 Are more charges possible with the new Epstein referral? From LA Times Media Group | This week on Straight to the Point, we curated a 12-minute video with the headlines and highlights from our exclusive interview with FBI Director Kash Patel. After our exclusive sit-down with Director Patel (11/24) we immediately posted the full interview because we don’t believe in holding back the news for some artificial corporate deadline. Headlines from our interview were picked up by multiple media outlets. That is the power of credible, independent journalism. Thank you for supporting Straight to the Point and our partnership @thelatmg @latimesstudios_ 00:30 Attempted Assassination President Trump in Butler PA. 01:15 Director Patel says Thomas Crooks “acted alone” and “no evidence” foreign involvement 02:35 What explains the discrepancy and confusion over Thomas Crooks' on-line activity? 03:50 Russia Collusion investigation: FBI has “multiple ongoing matters” as part of a larger conspiracy case 05:10 Are former CIA Director Brennan, DNI Clapper and others in the clear? “The FBI is not in the business of exonerating people.” 05:45 Five FBI ‘burn bags’ discovered at FBI HQ: Director Patel says the FBI knows who handled the burn bags and whether their intent was to preserve the records for the Trump administration or destroy the records 08:30 Drug Trafficking Crackdown: How quickly will the FBI know if China cheats on the new deal to restrict and control Fentanyl recursors? 09:47 Patel says military strikes have reduced ‘without question’ the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela and other areas 10:52 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Will the FBI meet the 30 day deadline 11:57 As few redactions or blacked out sections on Epstein Files 12:17 Is the new referral limited to democrats? Patel: ‘We'll just follow the facts. It's pretty simple. For this FBI.” 13:35 Are more charges possible with the new Epstein referral? false full 5 c79b405d-3cdf-484f-a187-7c57454f54c2 FBI Director Kash Patel 00:39 Arrival FBI HQ: What needs to be fixed? 

02:44 Is the Thomas Crooks’ case a closed case? 

06:21 Democratic lawmakers alleged sedition: “Is there a lawful predicate to open up an inquiry and investigation?” 

08:28 Clapper, Brennan and others: Is the FBI pursuing a broader conspiracy allegedly designed to undermine President Trump? 

09:56 Burn bags discovered at FBI HQ: Patel “we know” who put the burn bags containing Trump records in a secure room and whether their intent was to destroy the records or preserve them. 

12:35 A 2016 CIA intelligence referral about an alleged “Clinton plan” to tie candidate Trump to Russia. 13:10 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Meeting the 30 day deadline, commitment to limited redactions. 

16:05 Cracking down on Fentanyl: China Deal. How quickly will the US government know if China cheats? 19:00 Charlie Kirk assassination investigation 

21:30 January 6th pipe bomber case update: “There are new developments” 

22:35 Venezuela, military strikes and the impact on illegal drug flow 

23:46 Use Government Jet: Director Patel required by law to use government DOJ aircraft for security and 24/7 communications 

24:39 FBI HQ: Patel said he hopes “by the end of next year, we'll have a large chunk of our workforce” at the Ronald Reagan Building TIMING 

NOTE: We did not ask FBI Director Patel about the dismissal of the James Comey indictment because the news broke two hours after our interview. We wanted to be fully transparent on the timing.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:23:02 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/fbi-director-kash-patel-7mQ0SfEj 00:39 Arrival FBI HQ: What needs to be fixed? 

02:44 Is the Thomas Crooks’ case a closed case? 

06:21 Democratic lawmakers alleged sedition: “Is there a lawful predicate to open up an inquiry and investigation?” 

08:28 Clapper, Brennan and others: Is the FBI pursuing a broader conspiracy allegedly designed to undermine President Trump? 

09:56 Burn bags discovered at FBI HQ: Patel “we know” who put the burn bags containing Trump records in a secure room and whether their intent was to destroy the records or preserve them. 

12:35 A 2016 CIA intelligence referral about an alleged “Clinton plan” to tie candidate Trump to Russia. 13:10 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Meeting the 30 day deadline, commitment to limited redactions. 

16:05 Cracking down on Fentanyl: China Deal. How quickly will the US government know if China cheats? 19:00 Charlie Kirk assassination investigation 

21:30 January 6th pipe bomber case update: “There are new developments” 

22:35 Venezuela, military strikes and the impact on illegal drug flow 

23:46 Use Government Jet: Director Patel required by law to use government DOJ aircraft for security and 24/7 communications 

24:39 FBI HQ: Patel said he hopes “by the end of next year, we'll have a large chunk of our workforce” at the Ronald Reagan Building TIMING 

NOTE: We did not ask FBI Director Patel about the dismissal of the James Comey indictment because the news broke two hours after our interview. We wanted to be fully transparent on the timing.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> FBI Director Kash Patel darius derakshan 00:28:19 00:39 Arrival FBI HQ: What needs to be fixed? 02:44 Is the Thomas Crooks’ case a closed case? 06:21 Democratic lawmakers alleged sedition: “Is there a lawful predicate to open up an inquiry and investigation?” 08:28 Clapper, Brennan and others: Is the FBI pursuing a broader conspiracy allegedly designed to undermine President Trump? 09:56 Burn bags discovered at FBI HQ: Patel “we know” who put the burn bags containing Trump records in a secure room and whether their intent was to destroy the records or preserve them. 12:35 A 2016 CIA intelligence referral about an alleged “Clinton plan” to tie candidate Trump to Russia. 13:10 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Meeting the 30 day deadline, commitment to limited redactions. 16:05 Cracking down on Fentanyl: China Deal. How quickly will the US government know if China cheats? 19:00 Charlie Kirk assassination investigation 21:30 January 6th pipe bomber case update: “There are new developments” 22:35 Venezuela, military strikes and the impact on illegal drug flow 23:46 Use Government Jet: Director Patel required by law to use government DOJ aircraft for security and 24/7 communications 24:39 FBI HQ: Patel said he hopes “by the end of next year, we'll have a large chunk of our workforce” at the Ronald Reagan Building TIMING NOTE: We did not ask FBI Director Patel about the dismissal of the James Comey indictment because the news broke two hours after our interview. We wanted to be fully transparent on the timing. 00:39 Arrival FBI HQ: What needs to be fixed? 02:44 Is the Thomas Crooks’ case a closed case? 06:21 Democratic lawmakers alleged sedition: “Is there a lawful predicate to open up an inquiry and investigation?” 08:28 Clapper, Brennan and others: Is the FBI pursuing a broader conspiracy allegedly designed to undermine President Trump? 09:56 Burn bags discovered at FBI HQ: Patel “we know” who put the burn bags containing Trump records in a secure room and whether their intent was to destroy the records or preserve them. 12:35 A 2016 CIA intelligence referral about an alleged “Clinton plan” to tie candidate Trump to Russia. 13:10 Epstein Files Transparency Act: Meeting the 30 day deadline, commitment to limited redactions. 16:05 Cracking down on Fentanyl: China Deal. How quickly will the US government know if China cheats? 19:00 Charlie Kirk assassination investigation 21:30 January 6th pipe bomber case update: “There are new developments” 22:35 Venezuela, military strikes and the impact on illegal drug flow 23:46 Use Government Jet: Director Patel required by law to use government DOJ aircraft for security and 24/7 communications 24:39 FBI HQ: Patel said he hopes “by the end of next year, we'll have a large chunk of our workforce” at the Ronald Reagan Building TIMING NOTE: We did not ask FBI Director Patel about the dismissal of the James Comey indictment because the news broke two hours after our interview. We wanted to be fully transparent on the timing. false full 4 c15ee9ab-d9ca-4710-b4a7-0ff61672933c The Case Against Comey This week, former FBI Director Comey's legal team took their best shot at getting his criminal indictment dismissed.

 

The FBI evidence against Comey is credible and maybe hard to overcome if his case goes to trial.

 

I reached out to my network of law enforcement contacts and spoke with six former FBI agents. Between them they have more than 9 decades of law enforcement experience.

 

They said the FBI Trump Probes Were Not Done “By The Book.”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:21:31 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/the-case-against-comey-TadjhZLm This week, former FBI Director Comey's legal team took their best shot at getting his criminal indictment dismissed.

 

The FBI evidence against Comey is credible and maybe hard to overcome if his case goes to trial.

 

I reached out to my network of law enforcement contacts and spoke with six former FBI agents. Between them they have more than 9 decades of law enforcement experience.

 

They said the FBI Trump Probes Were Not Done “By The Book.”

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> The Case Against Comey darius derakshan 00:18:14 This week, former FBI Director Comey's legal team took their best shot at getting his criminal indictment dismissed. The FBI evidence against Comey is credible and maybe hard to overcome if his case goes to trial. I reached out to my network of law enforcement contacts and spoke with six former FBI agents. Between them they have more than 9 decades of law enforcement experience. They said the FBI Trump Probes Were Not Done “By The Book.” This week, former FBI Director Comey's legal team took their best shot at getting his criminal indictment dismissed. The FBI evidence against Comey is credible and maybe hard to overcome if his case goes to trial. I reached out to my network of law enforcement contacts and spoke with six former FBI agents. Between them they have more than 9 decades of law enforcement experience. They said the FBI Trump Probes Were Not Done “By The Book.” false full 3 b220d93a-393c-4004-a6d7-f1b2925cb4f4 Veterans Day This Sunday On Straight To The Point with Catherine Herridge: A Six Month Investigation That Demands Accountability For Injured Service Members

Our Service Members Deserve Better.

On This Veterans Day, Honoring All Who Served.

See You Sunday on Straight to The Point!

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:14:32 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/veterans-day-s4QMJHMF This Sunday On Straight To The Point with Catherine Herridge: A Six Month Investigation That Demands Accountability For Injured Service Members

Our Service Members Deserve Better.

On This Veterans Day, Honoring All Who Served.

See You Sunday on Straight to The Point!

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Veterans Day darius derakshan 00:12:27 This Sunday On Straight To The Point with Catherine Herridge: A Six Month Investigation That Demands Accountability For Injured Service Members Our Service Members Deserve Better. On This Veterans Day, Honoring All Who Served. See You Sunday on Straight to The Point! This Sunday On Straight To The Point with Catherine Herridge: A Six Month Investigation That Demands Accountability For Injured Service Members Our Service Members Deserve Better. On This Veterans Day, Honoring All Who Served. See You Sunday on Straight to The Point! false full 2 c6b65ac5-15ad-41e7-b4ba-986cce6a221c Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon As Head of The Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon is taking on DEI, political violence, getting boys out of girls sports, government overreach, and more. We sat down with her this week for an exclusive interview you’ll only see right here on Straight to the Point.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Mon, 12 Jan 2026 21:40:54 +0000 darius.derakshan@latimes.com (darius derakshan) https://straight-to-the-point-with-catherine-herridge.simplecast.com/episodes/assistant-attorney-general-harmeet-dhillon-B62RvVok As Head of The Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon is taking on DEI, political violence, getting boys out of girls sports, government overreach, and more. We sat down with her this week for an exclusive interview you’ll only see right here on Straight to the Point.

Hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Catherine Herridge, Straight to the Point draws on extensive sourcing, primary documents, and on-the-record interviews to deliver fact-driven, independent journalism. Each episode will feature in-depth conversations with influential leaders and experts, providing context and clarity on the issues shaping the world today.

]]> Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon darius derakshan 00:13:30 As Head of The Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon is taking on DEI, political violence, getting boys out of girls sports, government overreach, and more. We sat down with her this week for an exclusive interview you’ll only see right here on Straight to the Point. As Head of The Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon is taking on DEI, political violence, getting boys out of girls sports, government overreach, and more. We sat down with her this week for an exclusive interview you’ll only see right here on Straight to the Point. false full 1