DeProgram with Ted Rall and John Kiriakou: “What Next for the Economy?”

Anxiety over the economy is the focus on “DeProgram with Ted Rall and John Kiriakou,” where political cartoonist Ted Rall and CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou are joined by guest Aquiles Larrea. Aquiles Larrea Jr. is a prominent financial advisor and founder of Larrea Wealth Management, specializing in wealth strategies for Latino executives. A bestselling author and media commentator, he empowers clients with tailored financial planning and economic insights.

• Economic Warning Signs: Mark Zandi, Moody’s chief economist, warns that the U.S. economy teeters on the brink of recession, with job growth at a “virtual standstill” and tariffs driving up consumer prices. August’s jobs report looms and states like California and New York signal economic weakness.

• A Tale of Two Economies: McDonald’s expands its value menu as CEO Chris Kempczinski notes a “two-tier economy,” in which middle- and lower-income consumers are struggling. Inflation and stagnant job growth hit low-income households hardest.

• Are Cartels “Terrorism”?: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reveals on DeProgram orders a deadly U.S. strike targeting Venezuelan cartel boats in the Caribbean as part of Trump’s aggressive anti-fentanyl campaign.

• Metropolitan Opera’s Saudi Scheme: The Met’s $100 million agreement with Saudi Arabia aims to stabilize the Met’s finances but raises ethical questions amid Saudi’s human rights record.

• Trump’s Deportations Blocked: A federal appeals court rejects Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act for deportations. Fifth Circuit ruling halts plans targeting Venezuelan immigrants, setting the stage for a Supreme Court battle.