January 9, 2025 3-5PM ET
Thursday on The Robert Scott Bell Show:
Hour 1
Special Guest Jonathan Emord
For the past 37 years, Jonathan W. Emord has litigated against the federal bureaucracy, winning over and over again. Ron Paul calls Jonathan “an expert in constitutional theory and history” and “an expert litigatorwith a long string of legal victories over the federal bureaucracy.” George Noory calls him “a Knight in Shining Armor” and “a warrior out to save our rights.” Congressmen Dan Burton and John Doolittle describe him as “an intellectual warrior for the rights and freedoms of people in America.” Jonathan has a unique, detailed knowledge of the federal bureaucracy, the deep state. He knows how to defeat it. Jonathan graduated from the University of Illinois
(BA, political science and history, 1982) and DePaul University College of Law (JD, 1985). He served as an attorney in the Federal Communications Commission during the Reagan administration. A leading constitutional law and litigation expert, he is the author of five critically acclaimed books. He has won more cases against the Food and Drug Administration in federal court than any other attorney in American history, earning him the nickname “FDA Dragon Slayer.” He is a columnist for Townhall.com, PJ Media.com, Americangreatness.com, and the U.S.A. Today Magazine. He frequently appears on national radio and television programs. He is married to Sheryl Emord, and they have two children, twins Justice and Angelica. They reside in Clifton, Virginia.
Joe Biden Confirms He Is Weighing Liz Cheney, Anthony Fauci Preemptive Pardons President Joe Biden is considering issuing preemptive pardons to Liz Cheney, Anthony Fauci, and other political allies to shield them from potential prosecution under Donald Trump’s incoming administration. The move, first reported by USA Today, is being explored by White House legal advisors as concerns grow that Trump may target those who opposed him. Biden has defended the possibility of pardons as a means to prevent political score-settling, though legal experts argue that accepting a preemptive pardon implies an admission of guilt. Trump previously suggested that Biden was free to pardon his allies, acknowledging the power of executive clemency but emphasizing that his administration would still pursue investigations into past misconduct. Some Democratic figures and media allies have also pushed for broader pardons, including for high-profile figures like Mark Milley, Christopher Wray, and Nancy Pelosi. The political implications of such pardons remain contentious, with critics accusing Biden of shielding potential wrongdoing while supporters argue it is a necessary step to prevent partisan retribution. If enacted, these pardons could set a precedent in modern U.S. history regarding the use of executive clemency for preventative legal protection.
Poll: Majority of U.S. Parents Support Reducing Size, Influence of Department of Education A recent poll conducted by Parents Defending Education (PDE) shows that 52% of American parents supportreducing the size and influence of the U.S. Department of Education, with Republican and independent parents favoring the move significantly more than Democrats. The survey, released ahead of Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, aligns with his campaign promise to dismantle the Department of Education and return education policy to individual states. Trump has repeatedly argued that U.S. education standards have declined despite the country spending more per student than any other nation. The poll also found that 77% of parents favor allowing states more flexibility in managing school districts, with bipartisan agreement on the importance of focusing on core subjects like math, reading, and science. Additionally, PDE highlighted that the Department of Education has spent over $1 billion on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which has fueled criticism over misplaced priorities. The survey results reflect growing dissatisfaction with federal control over education, with many advocating for more localized decision-making. Critics argue that reducing the department’s size could weaken federal oversight and accountability, while supporters see it as a step toward educational freedom and improved academic outcomes.
Arkansas Looks to Hold Pharma Execs Criminally Liable for Vaccine Injuries Arkansas lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 6, which seeks to hold pharmaceutical executives criminally liable if they knowingly conceal evidence of vaccine-related harm. Introduced by Republican State Sen. Bryan King, the bill would impose felony charges, including potential life sentences, on executives found guilty of hiding vaccine risks. The legislation is part of a broader effort to challenge the federal liability protections granted to vaccine manufacturers under the 1986 National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act and the PREP Act, which shield companies from civil lawsuits related to vaccine injuries. Supporters argue the bill is necessary to hold corporate decision-makers accountable, especially after COVID-19 vaccine concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and regulatory transparency. Critics caution that the bill faces legal challenges, as federal laws may supersede state-level actions, making enforcement difficult. Some legal experts suggest that targeting corporate decision-makers, rather than the broader industry, could limit the bill’s impact. Previous versions of similar bills passed the Arkansas Senate but failed in the House, highlighting the challenges of pushing liability reforms in the pharmaceutical industry. If enacted, the law could set a precedent for other states seeking stricter accountability for drug manufacturers.
Carbon Dioxide Can’t Be Labeled A “Pollutant” Under Proposed Wyoming Legislation A new bill introduced by Wyoming state Sen. Cheri Steinmetz aims to remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from being classifiedas a pollutant within the state, arguing that it is a naturally occurring compound essential for plant life and economic stability. The legislation, dubbed the “Make Carbon Dioxide Great Again” bill, would repeal previous laws requiring coal power plants to retrofit their facilities with carbon capture technology, a mandate that was initially implemented to help keep the coal industry viable amid regulatory pressure. Supporters argue that the current push for decarbonization imposes unnecessary economic burdens on Wyoming’s energy sector, while critics warn that disregarding CO₂ as a pollutant contradicts scientific consensus on climate change. The bill has sparked opposition from environmental advocates and even some lawmakers who previously supported carbon capture as a compromise to sustain coal operations. If passed, the law would require utility companies to refund any unspent funds collected from customers for carbon capture projects. The proposed legislation reflects broader debates on the role of fossil fuels and government intervention in energy policy, as Wyoming remains a key player in U.S. coal production and seeks to balance economic interests with environmental concerns.
Illinois Carbon Capture Project Captures Almost No Carbon A federally funded carbon capture project at an Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) ethanol plant in Illinois has captured only 10–12% of its annual emissions over the past decade, raising concerns about the viability of large-scale carbon sequestration. The project, which has received $281 million in taxpayer funding, was initially hailed as the largest demonstration of its kind in the U.S., designed to permanently store CO₂ underground. However, data from the EPA and independent analysts reveal that the majority of emissions continue to escape into the atmosphere, calling into question the effectiveness of industrial-scale carbon capture. Critics argue that the project exemplifies the shortcomings of carbon capture technology, which has been promoted as a solution for reducing emissions from fossil fuel and ethanol production. Despite the project’s inefficiencies, the U.S. government has continued to pour billions into similar initiatives, with more than 130 pending applications for carbon storage projects nationwide. Skeptics, including former carbon capture researchers, warn that such projects primarily serve as financial boondoggles rather than meaningful climate solutions. Proponents maintain that carbon capture remains an essential tool for decarbonization, but the Illinois case underscores the persistent technological and economic challenges associated with large-scale implementation.
Hour 2
Doctors Worry That Iodine Deficiency Is Coming Back Iodine deficiency, once nearly eradicated in the U.S. through iodized salt and fortified foods, is making a quiet return due to changing diets and foodmanufacturing practices. Experts warn that iodine levels have declined, particularly in pregnant women, raising concerns about developmental issues in newborns. Historically, iodine deficiency caused goiters and cognitive impairments, leading to its mandatory inclusion in table salt in the 1920s. However, the rise of non-iodized salt alternatives like kosher and Himalayan salt, along with reduced iodine fortification in bread and processed foods, has led to a resurgence of mild deficiencies. A recent study found that a quarter of pregnant women surveyed in Lansing, Michigan, were not getting enough iodine, increasing the risk of lower IQs and developmental delays in children. Many prenatal vitamins lack iodine, and doctors recommend that expecting mothers check supplement labels to ensure adequate intake. While most Americans still receive sufficient iodine, those with restricted diets or food aversions, such as children with autism, may be at higher risk. Public health officials stress the need for renewed awareness about iodine’s importance, particularly for vulnerable populations, as the long-term effects of even mild deficiencies remain a concern.
Special Guest Alexandra
Medical decisions are often rooted in fear, anxiety, or persuasion—but they don’t have to be. With a greater understanding of the available information, you can make the right choices for your family. Just the Inserts takes the complexity and confusion out of the medical decision-making process. We provide thoroughly researched resources and training to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Alexandra is a military veteran and passionate mother of three young children. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelors in business management, and served five years as an United States Air Force Officer. Decorated with a plethora of certifications and awards while in the military, Alexandra’s greatest achievement is becoming a mother. Her passion for researching medical products originated out of personal necessity, but continues today as a service to other patients and parents on similar paths. Alexandra wholeheartedly believes everyone deserves informed consent, no matter their background. Even though her research can be heavy and dry at times, Alexandra is personally a very bubbly and kind-hearted mother of three young children (5 years old, 3 years old, and 8 months old). When she’s not reading inserts and creating content, her schedule is jam-packed with school activities, playdates, and making dinner while dancing to “Raspberry Beret” with a baby on her hip. She wants people to know that she cares about them, even if she doesn’t know them, and even if they have nothing in common. She wants them to know she genuinely wants them to make the best decision for themselves, even if it’s not one she would make for herself.
French-Swiss archaeology team discovers stunning tomb of renowned wizard-doctor in Egypt A French-Swiss archaeological team has uncovered the 4,000-year-old tomb of Tetinebefou, a high-rankingphysician, magician, and priest who served during Egypt’s Sixth Dynasty under King Pepi II. The discovery was made in Saqqara, a necropolis for Egyptian elites, and reveals a well-preserved tomb adorned with intricate carvings, a false door, and funerary offerings. Inscriptions identify Tetinebefou as the “chief doctor of the palace” and a priest-magician of the goddess Serket, known for protecting against venomous creatures, suggesting he specialized in treating snake and scorpion bites. Unusually, he also held the title of royal dentist, a rare distinction in ancient Egyptian burials. Though the tomb had been looted before its discovery, its architectural and artistic elements remain largely intact, offering insight into the medical and religious practices of the time. Saqqara continues to be a critical archaeological site, home to some of the most significant discoveries of Egypt’s Old Kingdom, including pyramids and the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Experts believe this find reinforces the close relationship between medicine and magic in ancient Egyptian society, where healers often served both scientific and spiritual roles in their communities.





