Ep. 2388 - Did The CIA SPY On Tucker Carlson?! - The Ben Shapiro Show Recap

Podcast: The Ben Shapiro Show

Published: 2026-03-16

Duration: 3031

Summary

Ben Shapiro examines Tucker Carlson's claims about being targeted by the CIA for his interactions with Iran, along with broader implications for media credibility and geopolitical tensions. Shapiro also analyzes the decline of the Oscars' popularity and various geopolitical developments involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

What Happened

Tucker Carlson has made allegations that the CIA is preparing a criminal referral against him for his conversations with Iranian contacts. This follows previous accusations by Carlson against the NSA about monitoring his communications, though these claims lacked evidence. Shapiro suggests that Carlson's allegations might be politically motivated or a strategy to deflect from a potentially negative story about him.

The episode delves into the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which mandates individuals acting under the direction of a foreign principal to register, hinting at the legal implications of Carlson's actions if true. Ben Shapiro criticizes Carlson's narrative, pointing out a pattern of making unsubstantiated claims on his show, which he argues undermines media credibility.

Shapiro also touches on the Oscars, highlighting its declining viewership and increased political bias as factors in its diminished relevance. The ceremony included jokes about Republicans and references to Jeffrey Epstein, with figures like Paul Thomas Anderson making political statements in their acceptance speeches.

In geopolitical news, a radical Muslim terrorist linked to Hezbollah attempted to attack a synagogue and Jewish school in Michigan. This incident is part of broader tensions involving Iran, whose military capabilities have been severely diminished, leaving them to resort to ballistic missile and drone attacks.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical geopolitical flashpoint, with Iran's activities there threatening global oil shipments, particularly impacting China, which receives a significant portion of its oil through this narrow passage. President Trump has urged countries benefiting from the strait to contribute to its defense.

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has announced goals to liberate Iran's economy from military control, while the United States has continued to target Iranian military infrastructure without harming oil facilities, maintaining pressure on Iran's economy.

In the realm of finance, Acorns, a financial wellness app, continues to grow, boasting over 14 million customers and $27 billion in managed funds. Meanwhile, Armour Colostrum is promoted as a health supplement supporting various bodily functions.

Key Insights

• The Foreign Agents Registration Act requires individuals acting on behalf of a foreign principal to register with the U.S. government, which could have legal implications for Tucker Carlson if his alleged communications with Iranian contacts are substantiated.
• The Oscars have experienced declining viewership, partly attributed to increased political content during the ceremony, including jokes about Republicans and references to Jeffrey Epstein.
• The Strait of Hormuz is a vital passage for global oil shipments, with Iran's actions in the region posing a threat to supply, particularly affecting China, which relies heavily on this route for its oil imports.
• Acorns, a financial wellness app, has grown to over 14 million customers and manages $27 billion in funds, reflecting its expanding influence in personal finance management.