The SCOOP: The Strait, Scandals and a Stunning Defeat
The SCOOP: The Strait, Scandals and a Stunning Defeat  
Podcast: SmartHER News
Published On: Mon Apr 13 2026
Description: Jenna previews a busy week of major stories, framed by Artemis astronaut Jeremy Hansen's "Joy Train" message about teams regaining perspective and joy.  Internationally, she clarifies reports about a U.S. "blockade" in the Strait of Hormuz, explaining Central Command describes actions focused on ships entering or exiting Iranian ports rather than blocking international waters, and notes the move follows failed U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan centered on securing a long-term Iranian commitment not to pursue nuclear weapons, with Iran accusing the U.S. of shifting goalposts; oil prices remain elevated amid a ceasefire timeline.  In Europe, Hungary's longtime leader Viktor Orban suffers a "stunning defeat" to 45-year-old Peter Maygar, a centrist-right figure focused on the economy and anti-corruption, raising questions about shifts in alliances and conservatism.  Domestically, allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell lead him to exit California's governor race as Congress debates rare expulsion moves that also involve Rep. Tony Gonzalez, while the First Lady publicly denies any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and urges continued investigation amid disputes over former Attorney General Pam Bondi's testimony. **UPDATE** ERIC SWALWELL released a statement on Monday around 5:15 est announcing his intention to resign from Congress. 00:00 Week Ahead Preview 00:27 Joy Train Mindset 02:21 Strait of Hormuz Blockade 05:41 Iran Talks and Nuclear Standoff 09:33 Oil Prices and Global Stakes 11:04 Hungary Election Shock 14:12 What Orban Loss Signals 17:39 Swalwell Scandal Fallout 22:09 Expulsion Push in Congress 27:41 Melania and Epstein Questions 31:20 Reporting Gray Areas 33:30 Artemis Wisdom and Signoff SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here's how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews