Daily Review with Clay and Buck - May 26 2026

Iran Updates

Clay and Buck break down the escalating U.S.–Iran situation, including ongoing nuclear negotiations and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. Clay and Buck share insights from a recent high-level briefing, emphasizing that a potential deal with Iran is close but not guaranteed, and that military options remain on the table if diplomacy fails. They discuss the complexities of enforcing any agreement, skepticism about Iran’s willingness to comply, and broader concerns about preventing nuclear weapons development. The conversation also explores more aggressive policy options, including the possibility of directly seizing nuclear materials, while acknowledging the risks and historical lessons from past Middle East conflicts.

The hosts devote significant attention to the global energy market, explaining how disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have led to a major shipping bottleneck, with roughly 1,500 vessels stalled in the region. They underscore that true reopening of the strait requires both inbound and outbound traffic to normalize, not just partial movement. This issue is tied directly to domestic economic concerns, as Clay and Buck argue that energy prices—especially gas prices—are a key driver of voter sentiment. They suggest that a drop in fuel costs could ease inflation, strengthen the economy, and play a critical role in Republican electoral prospects heading into the midterm elections.

The hour also includes a detailed economic discussion noting that the United States has significantly benefited from higher global oil and gas prices due to increased exports. The hosts contend that strong domestic energy production, combined with broader economic factors like capital investment and technological growth, is contributing to a positive economic outlook despite global instability. This perspective reinforces their broader political analysis tying economic performance to election outcomes.

Ken Paxton is feeling optimistic 

An in-depth interview with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who lays out his case against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton criticizes Cornyn’s long tenure and alignment with Washington insiders, while positioning himself as a more effective, results-driven candidate aligned with President Trump’s agenda. He emphasizes issues such as election integrity, border security, and conservative policy priorities, while also addressing criticism about legal challenges he has faced, framing them as politically motivated “lawfare.” The interview underscores the broader ideological divide within the GOP and the importance of grassroots turnout in the runoff election.

How can we lower gas prices in the US?

Economic issues and energy policy become a focus for the guys, particularly the impact of rising oil and gas prices on American consumers. The hosts respond to multiple listener questions about why U.S. energy companies can generate significant profits while Americans still face high gas prices. Clay and Buck explain the concept of global commodity markets, emphasizing that oil and gas prices are set internationally rather than domestically. They use analogies ranging from gold pricing to luxury goods and event tickets to illustrate why prices cannot be artificially lowered in one country without creating market imbalances. This discussion also touches on capitalism, taxation, and debates over potential windfall profit taxes, with the hosts generally advocating for lower taxes and market-driven pricing.

In addition to energy economics, the hosts connect rising fuel prices to broader political and geopolitical developments, including tensions with Iran. A notable caller perspective highlights the real-world financial strain of high diesel costs on truck drivers, while also expressing support for U.S. foreign policy actions despite the economic burden. This segment underscores the trade-offs between national security decisions and domestic economic impact, reinforcing a key theme of the hour: how global events directly affect American workers and voters.

John Cornyn wants to keep his Senate Seat

The guys speak to Senator John Cornyn, who makes his case for reelection by emphasizing his legislative record, long-standing support for President Trump’s agenda, and role in advancing key policies such as tax cuts and judicial confirmations. Cornyn addresses Trump’s endorsement of Paxton by attributing it to frustration with Senate gridlock rather than any lack of personal loyalty, noting his high voting alignment with the president. He argues that his experience and proven electoral success make him the strongest candidate to preserve the seat for Republicans and to support down-ballot races, while warning that Paxton’s legal controversies could create vulnerabilities in a general election. Cornyn also stresses the importance of party unity after the runoff and commits to supporting the Republican nominee regardless of the outcome.

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