
Verdict with Ted Cruz Legend Robert Duvall Passes plus Gavin Newsom Claims He's Disabled
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Feb 18, 2026 A heartfelt tribute to Robert Duvall, highlighting his most iconic film roles and legacy. A heated political back-and-forth over Gavin Newsom’s historical claims and a social media dust-up about dyslexia and being “historically illiterate.” Discussion of Eisenhower federalizing the National Guard and how AI and memes shaped online responses.
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Duvall's Enduring Acting Legacy
- Robert Duvall's career spanned iconic roles that defined American film and TV, from To Kill a Mockingbird to Lonesome Dove.
- Ted Cruz says Duvall aged into even stronger performances and left a legacy of authenticity and gravitas.
Classic Secondhand Lions Scene
- Ben Ferguson and Ted Cruz play an audio clip from Secondhand Lions to illustrate Duvall's old-man badass persona.
- They highlight the scene where Duvall's character physically teaches punk kids a lesson, showing his filmic toughness.
Duvall's Personal Principles
- Duvall insisted on certain roles and creative control, refusing parts unless the character fit him.
- He asked for no funeral and told people to "watch a good movie," reflecting his personal values about storytelling.




