JRE #1408 - Ed Calderon

8-Jan-20

Joe Rogan Podcast Topics – #1408 – Ed Calderon

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience dives deep into the realities of cartel violence in Mexico, offering a harrowing glimpse into the escalating chaos and a chilling prediction of potential conflict with the United States. Provocative topics include cartel roadblocks, the Mormon massacre, the potential for US military intervention, and the intricate web of corruption that permeates Mexican society. Underlying themes explore the rise of narcoterrorism, the global implications of the drug trade, and the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminal organizations.

Here’s a breakdown of the podcast’s key topics, exploring the depth of each point:

1. Cartel Roadblocks and The Dangers of Traveling in Mexico:

Calderon details the prevalence of cartel-operated roadblocks, emphasizing the dangers of traveling through certain areas in Mexico.
These roadblocks are a tactic used by cartels to control territory, extort money from travelers, and capture rivals or government personnel.
Calderon reveals that he has personally encountered these roadblocks, emphasizing the risk involved for travelers and the significance of avoiding these areas.
The podcast highlights the importance of being aware of these dangers, as well as the need for careful planning and caution when traveling through Mexico.

2. The Mormon Massacre and The Wake-Up Call for America:

The brutal massacre of a Mormon family in northern Mexico served as a stark wake-up call for many Americans, highlighting the escalating violence in the region.
The podcast explores the potential for mistaken identity or the involvement of the cartels in the lithium mining industry as contributing factors to the massacre.
Calderon emphasizes the strategic importance of the region due to its proximity to lithium deposits, a key resource for battery technology and green energy.
The episode underscores the growing threat of cartel violence to American citizens, prompting discussions about the potential for US intervention.

3. The Failed War on Drugs and The Need for Alternative Solutions:

Calderon argues that the war on drugs has failed, highlighting the unintended consequences of militarization and the escalation of violence.
He suggests that legalization of certain drugs, particularly marijuana, could help stabilize the situation by reducing demand and disrupting cartel revenue streams.
The podcast emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses both supply and demand, including reducing demand for drugs in the US.
Calderon believes that a focus on addressing the social and economic inequalities that drive drug trafficking is crucial for a lasting solution.

4. The Rise of Narcoterrorism and The Threat to US National Security:

The podcast discusses the emergence of narcoterrorism, highlighting the increasingly political motivations and tactics employed by the cartels.
Calderon argues that the cartels should be designated as terrorist organizations, allowing the US to take more aggressive actions, including military strikes and financial sanctions.
The episode explores the potential for cartels to influence politics through intimidation, bribery, and political assassinations.
The threat of narcoterrorism underscores the need for a unified US and Mexican response to address the complex and evolving nature of the problem.

5. The Power and Reach of The Sinaloa Cartel:

The podcast reveals the extraordinary power of the Sinaloa cartel, detailing how they effectively defeated the Mexican army in a high-profile incident involving the capture and release of El Chapo’s son.
Calderon emphasizes the cartel’s immense resources, including stolen vehicles, military-grade weaponry, and control over entire cities and regions.
The episode highlights the cartel’s ability to exert significant influence over local governments and law enforcement, blurring the lines between legitimate authority and criminal activity.
Calderon warns of the cartel’s potential to gain even more power and control, potentially threatening the stability of the Mexican government.

6. The Inevitability of US Intervention and The Looming Crisis:

Calderon predicts that US military intervention in Mexico is inevitable, citing the escalating violence, the failure of current strategies, and the potential for destabilizing events.
The podcast discusses the challenges of intervention, including the systemic corruption in the Mexican government and the difficulty of identifying and addressing the root causes of the problem.
Calderon acknowledges the potential for unintended consequences, such as further instability and the risk of empowering other criminal factions.
The episode underscores the urgency of addressing the situation, highlighting the growing threat posed by cartels to both Mexico and the US.

7. The Impact of the Drug Trade on American Society:

Calderon highlights the devastating impact of the drug trade on American society, particularly the rise of the fentanyl epidemic.
The podcast emphasizes the connection between the drug trade in Mexico and the availability of illicit drugs in the US, illustrating the interconnected nature of the problem.
Calderon underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to address the epidemic, including drug treatment, harm reduction, and law enforcement strategies.
The episode emphasizes the urgency of addressing the problem, as the availability and lethality of fentanyl continue to rise.

8. The Importance of Real World Perspective:

Calderon emphasizes the importance of real world experience and firsthand accounts in understanding the complex situation in Mexico.
He criticizes the media’s portrayal of the situation, arguing that it often simplifies the complexities and overlooks the realities on the ground.
The podcast encourages listeners to seek out diverse perspectives and challenge narratives that fail to capture the full scope of the problem.
Calderon highlights the need for critical thinking and a willingness to question narratives, especially when dealing with sensitive and complex issues.

9. The Rise of the New Generation Cartel:

Calderon introduces the New Generation Cartel, a militarized and increasingly sophisticated criminal organization that poses a significant threat.
The podcast discusses the cartel’s focus on community engagement and hearts-and-minds tactics, attempting to gain legitimacy and control over the population.
Calderon warns of the potential for the cartel to expand its power and influence, potentially challenging the existing power dynamics in the region.
The episode highlights the evolution of criminal organizations, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies to counter their evolving tactics.

10. The Role of Corruption and Systemic Inequality:

Calderon discusses the role of corruption and systemic inequality in fueling cartel violence, highlighting the deeply embedded nature of the problem.
He explores how corruption permeates all levels of government, creating opportunities for cartels to operate with impunity and undermine legitimate authority.
The podcast emphasizes the need for systemic reforms to address the underlying issues that contribute to corruption and inequality.
Calderon warns that addressing the problem requires a long-term commitment to addressing both the symptoms and the root causes.

11. The Cultural Influence of Cartel Violence:

The podcast explores the cultural influence of cartel violence, examining how it shapes attitudes, values, and perceptions in Mexico.
Calderon highlights the normalization of violence and the acceptance of cartel rule in certain regions.
The episode discusses the role of music, iconography, and cultural narratives in perpetuating and glorifying cartel violence.
Calderon emphasizes the need for cultural and social reforms to challenge the acceptance of violence and promote alternative narratives.

12. The US-Mexico Relationship and The Need for Cooperation:

The podcast underscores the importance of the US-Mexico relationship, highlighting the interconnectedness of both countries’ economies and security interests.
Calderon argues that addressing the cartel problem requires a collaborative effort between both nations, recognizing the shared responsibility for the situation.
The episode emphasizes the need for a long-term commitment to cooperation, fostering trust and open communication between the US and Mexico.
Calderon believes that collaboration is essential for developing effective strategies and addressing the complex challenges posed by cartel violence.

13. The Global Implications of the Drug Trade:

The podcast discusses the global implications of the drug trade, highlighting the involvement of countries like China and the global network of criminal organizations.
Calderon emphasizes the need for international cooperation to address the problem, recognizing that it is not confined to any single nation.
The episode explores the role of technology and globalization in facilitating the drug trade and increasing its reach.
Calderon warns of the potential for global instability if the problem is not addressed effectively.

14. The Impact of Censorship and Social Media:

Calderon discusses the impact of censorship and social media platforms on the dissemination of information and the ability to hold authorities accountable.
He highlights the suppression of his own content on platforms like Instagram, arguing that it hinders the free flow of information and public awareness.
The podcast explores the challenges of navigating censorship and the potential for social media to be used as a tool for both transparency and suppression.
Calderon emphasizes the need for open and uncensored dialogue to address critical issues and hold institutions accountable.

15. The Importance of Education and Critical Thinking:

Calderon stresses the importance of education and critical thinking in navigating a world increasingly shaped by complex and evolving issues.
He encourages listeners to question narratives, seek out diverse perspectives, and engage in open dialogue to form informed opinions.
The podcast emphasizes the need for a critical understanding of media, information, and the role of technology in shaping public perception.
Calderon believes that informed citizens are crucial for holding institutions accountable and promoting positive change.

Memorable Quotes:

“Most people in America are just now waking up to the chaos that’s going on down there. I think that the Mormon assassination was a real wake-up call, but I think people are paying much more attention now.”
“The problem with that theory is that we have a lot of political killings by cartels in Mexico. Where they shoot the candidate of one side of the political spectrum because it’s not good for them.”
“So you got into power. First thing you did, militarize police forces and create a national guard and dissolve and try to dissolve the federal police.”
“The terror, the terrorist designation would mean that Trump would have some sort of incentive to invade Mexico. Well, it would it would it would open up the possibility for military direct military action again.”
“It seems so crazy to watch because it seems like it’s not discussed nearly enough. And it it seems like if it if it keeps getting stronger, like, what we saw with El Chapo Sun being released. What it what’s this stopping from taking over Mexico entirely?”