The News with Rick Sanchez - January 16, 2019 (20:00 ET)

Who’s really driving Syria conflict?

Who drives the narrative on Syria? A bomb attack in Manbij, Syria on Wednesday resulted in the death of at least 20 people including four Americans. Islamic State insurgents have claimed responsibility. Investigative journalist and author Max Blumenthal joins Rick Sanchez to weigh in on the effect the attack is likely to have on the planned withdrawal of US soldiers from Syria and the continuing US military presence there. He argues that whenever peace is in site for Syria, “something weird happens” to change the course of the conflict. They also discuss Israel’s recent admission that they are supporting insurgents and striking Iranian targets in Syria, something it has long denied.

When Drug Lords can Buy a Presidency, how sad!

Since his extradition from Mexico, the infamous “El Chapo” Guzman has been on trial in Brooklyn, New York for running the world’s largest drug cartel – charges he calls “false and defamatory.” A former associate recently claimed in court that Mexico’s ex-President Pea Nieto received a $100 million bribe from the crime boss. Rick Sanchez shakes his head at the corrupting influence of money on public figures and everyday people alike.

Teachers Protest in Poorest Country and Richest State

Rick Sanchez discusses the ongoing teachers’ strike in Greece. Then RT America’s Natasha Sweatte reports from Los Angeles, California on the latest details of the ongoing LA teachers’ strike, now in its third day.