Foreign Relations with Mike Vigil

Little Crooks know Big Crooks

In this episode, Marc Levine shares fascinating stories from his career as a DEA special agent, highlighting major drug busts, undercover operations, and the complexities of law enforcement work. Discover insights into cartel operations, chemical trafficking, and the risks faced by agents on the front lines. * DEA undercover operations in New York City * Disruption of cartel activities on Roosevelt Avenue * Seizure of Colombian heroin and firearms * Use of wiretaps and surveillance in drug investigations * The role of chemical precursors in drug manufacturing * Undercover tactics and agent resilience * Legal processes in drug prosecution and plea deals * Impact of drug trafficking on society and law enforcement

Mike Vigil - Current Columbia

In this episode, Mike Vigil, former Director of International Operations for DEA, discusses the recent kidnapping of Mayo Zambada, cartel dynamics, and the geopolitical implications of law enforcement actions in Mexico and South America. * The kidnapping of Mayo Zambada and its implications * Cartel leadership and recent changes after El Mencho's death * The use of military-grade weapons and tactics by cartels * The impact of cartel violence on Mexican and US relations * Legal and sovereignty issues in cartel law enforcement operations * The influence of US politics and policies on Latin American security * The new generation of Mexican cartels and their leadership * Geopolitical strategies involving the Shield of the Americas

Independence and the Future of Voting

In this episode, we explore the complexities of Arizona's political landscape, ballot access issues, and the importance of independent voters in shaping a better democracy. Guest Paul Johnson shares insights on reform efforts, gerrymandering, and the need for bipartisan cooperation. * Ballot access challenges for independents * Gerrymandering and primary system flaws * The rise of independent voters in Arizona * Efforts to reform primary elections and ballot access * The importance of bipartisan cooperation on water and education issues

AZ AG Kris Mayes job integrity

In this episode, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes discusses her work, election integrity, legal challenges, and her views on the current political landscape. She shares insights on lawsuits, election security, and her transition from Republican to Democrat. * Legal challenges faced by Arizona * Election security and voter integrity * Partisan politics and party transition * Lawsuits against federal policies * Role of Attorney General in safeguarding democracy * Kris Mayes has won 80% of her lawsuits, including two Supreme Court victories. * She emphasizes the importance of defending the rule of law and election integrity. * Mayes criticizes her opponents for their lack of qualifications and election denial. * She advocates for transparency in government and accountability for public officials. * The episode highlights the importance of independent voters and moderates in Arizona politics.

Immigration Benefits Not What You Think

In this episode, immigration attorney Mo Goldman discusses the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, the high costs and delays involved, and the human stories behind immigration policies. He highlights issues like visa processing times, fees, and the impact of recent policies on individuals and families. * Immigration benefits processing delays * High costs and fees for visas and naturalization * Impact of policies on families and individuals * Legal tools like writ of mandamus * Human stories of immigration struggles * The U.S. immigration system is plagued with delays, often taking years to process petitions. * Fees for immigration benefits can be thousands of dollars, with no guarantee of approval. * Many immigrants have been in the U.S. for most of their lives and face deportation despite their contributions. * Recent policies and increased fees threaten to make legal immigration more difficult and costly. * Legal avenues like the writ of mandamus can be used to expedite cases.