Independent journalist Nick Shirley discusses his exposés on government waste and fraud, including the California High Speed Rail project and a state law targeting his investigations. The conversation highlights how $15 billion was spent with nothing to show, while California passed a law (AB 2624) to silence him — which he is now suing to overturn.
Summarized by Podsumo
California High Speed Rail has spent $15 billion in 18 years with zero rail laid; projected costs have ballooned from $33 billion to $236 billion.
California passed a law (AB 2624) targeting Nick Shirley, requiring him to remove videos of taxpayer-funded services to illegal immigrants if demanded — he is now suing.
Shirley's viral Minnesota daycare fraud video (4 billion views) led to arrests, a guilty plea, and a top fraudster fleeing the country.
The half-billion dollar settlement paid to a contractor for delays reveals how legal waste in projects like the rail dwarfs traditional fraud.
Shirley funds his investigations entirely through viewer subscriptions and now faces death threats, requiring security.
"They should carry double the sentence because you're stealing from the actual society. — Jason Calacanis"
"California High Speed Rail is on track to be the third most expensive infrastructure project in the history of the world... we will never ride it. — Nick Shirley"
"The fact that they're creating laws to try to stop you from doing basic journalism means you're kicking fucking ass, Nick. Don't stop. — Chamath Palihapitiya"