Pulitzer Prize-winning NYTimes Opinion columnist Tom Friedman shares his perspective on the United States’ indefinite involvement in Venezuela. He warns that without a pathway toward functioning democracy, the country’s “mafia leadership” may remain in place. President Trump is speaking out against defense company stock dividends and buybacks. Plus, Becky Quick shares her personal connection to CNBC’s newest initiative, CNBC Cures. In a conversation with former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb, she discusses the scale of rare diseases and the regulatory hurdles that impact treatments for diagnoses like that of her own daughter, Kaylie. Join us in advancing awareness and understanding of rare diseases. Listen to The Path with Becky Quick, and visit CNBC.com/Cures to access clips, resources, or to sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Tom Friedman - 13:05

Dr. Scott Gottlieb - 26:06

In this episode:

Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick

Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk

Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin

Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paths Forward: Venezuela’s Leadership & Rare Disease Regulation 1/8/26

Squawk Pod