NEWS

An audit by the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) found that USAID has funnelled taxpayer money into left-wing causes and US “soft power,” reaching media outlets like the BBC. Analyst Mike Benz called it a “USA Truman Show,” where media amplified the illusion of grassroots support.

In the Pacific, the Cook Islands cancelled passport plans after New Zealand's warning, ahead of Prime Minister Mark Brown's talks with China. New Zealand's fast-track approvals for major projects have sparked criticism for sidelining community voices. Southern councils proposed regional funding for housing and infrastructure.

Australia's Parliament passed new hate speech laws with stricter penalties, while Musk vowed to rehire a DOGE employee who resigned amid controversy, igniting a cancel culture debate. President Trump has also frozen foreign aid to South Africa over its Expropriation Act, condemning the seizure of Afrikaner-owned farms.

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ANALYSIS

Rotorua Lakes District Councillor Conan O’Brien explains the ongoing fight against fluoridation of the local water supply. This issue is part of a larger nationwide struggle, as local councils are being directed by the Central Government to fluoridate their water, which many communities oppose, feeling their local decision-making has been stripped away. Despite the Director-General of Health, Diana Sarfati, and Minister of Health, Simeon Brown, maintaining that fluoridation is safe, a growing body of scientific evidence and local community sentiments suggest otherwise.

On a related note, some countries like the United States and Argentina are opting out of World Health Organisation membership. They aim to escape hefty funding obligations and the organisation's increasing influence over public health policies. RCR’s Roving Reporter Tane Webster spoke with ACT Party Leader David Seymour about this last week.

And finally, Marty Gibson gives us his take on the big story of the week regarding U.S.A.I..D.’s funding reach and alleged state grift.

THE SIGNPOST

In exciting news, our new feature show, RCR 360, premiered last week! You can catch Alistair Harding’s full episode on Democracy now available on RCR.media. Be sure not to miss this Thursday’s episode, which will delve into Gene Technology and why we should oppose the proposed Gene Technology Bill ahead of the feedback deadline on 17th February. If you'd like to voice your opinion on this bill, visit GeneTechGamble.co.nz for a free action pack, complete with a handy feedback template for your submission.

This week marks the return of some of RCR’s most popular shows, including Money Talks, the new Rural Report with Jaspreet and Don, The Fourth Estate, and the renowned Lindsay Perigo with his Perigo’s Perspective.

Additionally, Maree Buske has a fascinating conversation with political strategist Trevor Loudon about the latest developments surrounding Trump. Alistair Harding also recently interviewed King’s Counsel Grant Illingworth about the Covid Inquiry, exploring what Phase Two really entails. Paul Brennan spoke with Greg Simons to unpack the situation in Gaza and Trump’s broader international relations approach, which is a must-listen for anyone interested in global affairs. Simon O’Connor also chats with his friend Bruce Pope about current events in the US.

Lastly, don’t forget that our brand new RCR 2.0 site is live! Head to RCR.media and sign up for exclusive content.