Nixon and Watergate

Send us Fan MailLINDSEY GRAHAM: OUR SENATOR – A Tribute, Part 2: Shocked and SaddenedThe shock of Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden passing continued to reverberate across South Carolina and the nation as friends, colleagues, political allies, and even longtime opponents reflected on the life of one of America's most influential senators.Part Two begins with Darlene Graham Nardone taking the oath of office as South Carolina's temporary United States Senator before following the continuing news coverage and public reaction to Graham's death. Through interviews, press conferences, and conversations from those historic days, we hear memories of the man behind the public figure while revisiting many of the defining moments of his long career in public service.This episode captures a state—and a nation—coming to terms with an unexpected loss. It is a portrait of grief, gratitude, and remembrance as South Carolinians begin to reflect on Lindsey Graham's decades of service and the lasting impact he made on their state and the country.This is Part Two of our five-part documentary tribute honoring the life, leadership, and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailThis is a housekeeping episode  produced to update everyone on the significant changes to our Network wide changes to the schedule for July and part of August due to the death of Senator Lindsey Graham. They include: The episode looking at NixonMaxxing and Vice President J.D. Vance, will not air in July and we will air it in August on the Richard Nixon Experience.This week we will be airing, starting today, a 5-part special series looking back at the historic week in South Carolina we just lived through, and honoring the memory of Senator Lindsey Graham, the South Carolinian of the 21st century so far. The episodes will run starting today, Sunday July 19, through Thursday July 23, 2026. This will move our current season eighteen series  "Bob Dole 1995 Clinton's Comeback," to airing episodes next week, While the special inner-season series on Bob Packwood will air one episode now in July and then run in August. We will also run an episode covering the State Funeral of Lindsey Graham but it will air in early August due to time constraints. This episode will go through all of those scheduling changes in detail. Thanks for listening, Randal WallaceHost of the Wallace Podcast Network. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailLINDSEY GRAHAM: OUR SENATOR – A Week of History, A Tribute (Part 1)In one of the most extraordinary weeks in modern South Carolina political history, we look back at the remarkable events that unfolded from Senator Lindsey Graham's final overseas trip to Ukraine through the days that followed his unexpected passing.This first installment traces the timeline of a week that stunned the nation, beginning with Senator Graham's final public appearances abroad and concluding with Governor Henry McMaster's announcement appointing Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, to serve as South Carolina's temporary United States Senator. Throughout the episode, we hear from political leaders, friends, colleagues, and longtime associates who knew Lindsey Graham personally, offering their reflections on his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind.Drawing from press conferences, interviews, and public statements recorded during those historic days, this documentary preserves the voices of those who worked beside him and provides a chronological account of one of the most significant transitions in South Carolina's political history.This is Part One of our special tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham—a week of history, remembered. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan Mail Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan Mail Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailSenator Lindsey Graham has died at age 71. He has been a good friend to me for my entire political career . I cannot say enough good things about him as a human being and as a United States Senator. Here is our look at his career. This is a giant loss for the nation,  Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan Mail Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode, we will listen to the audio of a special short film. It is the campaign introductory video for Bob Dole in 1996. Of all the campaign videos I have saved and seen in over 40 plus years around politics, this is my favorite. That is probably because Bob Dole is my favorite. When I contacted the campaign in 1995, they had me come up to Columbia S.C. and get boxes of the videotapes to give out in Greenwood S.C. where I lived and went to college at Lander University. I kept a box and wrapped them up for Christmas gifts in December. I know, what a present right? I was as fanatical a Dole man as you ever wanted to meet, and 1995 and 1996 are still the best years of my life in politics. I had so much fun, and this video was the start. So, enjoy as we look back at the campaign of 1996, the campaign of a lifetime.  Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn our second ever special event we take you back , as though you were watching live coverage, of the day Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole R- Kansas announced his candidacy for President of the United States of America. It was an extraordinary moment in the history of the country because it was not just the announcement of candidate for President, it was the announcement of the start of the final campaign for a generation of Americans who had built the American Century. Underneath all the pomp and circumstance, underneath all the anticipation for yet another Dole run for President, underneath all the hype for another Presidential year on the horizon, was that under current, that everyone seemed to realize, that what we were actually watching was the beginning of the last campaign for the Greatest of Generations. It was mentioned throughout the day repeatedly,  and everyone realized it was time listen, to soak in history, as it was passing before our ears and eyes. It was a big moment, and in this episode we will take you back in time, and relive the day as if we were there covering it all live in 1995.  Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailThis is a housekeeping show to explain why we decided to add a season to our Bob Dole series. this additional season also includes a miniseries on the fall of Senator Bob Packwood, one of Bob Dole's chief lieutenants in the Senate. We hope you enjoy our coming season and our continued look back at giant political figure and the last of the Greatest Generation to run for President, Bob Dole. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailSeason Eighteen of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole takes us into one of the most dramatic and consequential years in modern American politics: 1995.At the beginning of the year, Republicans appeared to be at the height of their power. Fresh off the Republican Revolution of 1994, Bob Dole stood as the overwhelming favorite for the Republican presidential nomination, and many believed the White House was within reach.By the end of the year, however, the political landscape had changed dramatically.In this special season preview, we look ahead to the major stories that will define our upcoming episodes, including:• Bob Dole's long-awaited announcement for President of the United States • The tragic Oklahoma City bombing and its political aftermath • The stunning fall of Bob Packwood and its impact on the Senate • The crowded Republican presidential field challenging Dole's path to the nomination • Colin Powell and his brief flirtation with a presidential campaign that captivated the nation • The assassination of Yitzhak Rabin and the shockwaves it sent through the world and the Middle East peace process • The growing crisis in Bosnia and the difficult decisions facing American leaders • The two federal government shutdowns that would redefine the relationship between Congress and the White HouseAt the center of it all stands Bob Dole — Senate Majority Leader, Republican standard-bearer, and a man attempting to navigate a rapidly changing political environment while pursuing the presidency he had sought for decades.Meanwhile, President Bill Clinton begins one of the most remarkable political recoveries in modern history. Written off by many after the 1994 elections, Clinton would spend 1995 rebuilding his presidency and setting the stage for a comeback that few saw coming.This season is a story of ambition, tragedy, triumph, political warfare, and unexpected turns.A year that changed Washington.A year that reshaped two presidencies.And a year that would determine the course of the 1996 election.Welcome to Season Eighteen.Bob Dole: 1995 — Clinton's Comeback.Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailA discussion about the things coming up across the Wallace Podcast Network and an update on all three of the books we have coming out soon. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 458 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 39)A Bonus Show: A Couple of Stories by Bob DoleAs our journey through the life and career of Bob Dole continues, we take a brief detour from the main narrative to share a collection of fascinating stories that simply deserved to be heard.Over the course of researching this series, we encountered a number of memorable moments from Dole's oral history interviews that, while not essential to the chronological story, offered unique insights into his experiences, personality, and remarkable career. Rather than leave them on the cutting room floor, we've gathered them together for this special bonus episode.We begin with reflections on Dole's life and legacy from Karl Rove, recorded during FOX News coverage of Dole's funeral, providing context for how his colleagues and admirers remembered him after his passing.From there, Dole takes center stage, telling stories in his own words, including:• His meeting with Saddam Hussein and the impressions he took away from the encounter • His experiences meeting Daniel Ortega during a turbulent period in Central American politics • A fascinating story involving Slobodan Milošević during the conflicts that reshaped the Balkans • His work with Daniel Patrick Moynihan in the effort to preserve and strengthen Social SecurityThese stories highlight a side of Bob Dole that often gets overlooked — the diplomat, the negotiator, the observer of world events, and the Senate dealmaker who built relationships across party lines and around the globe.Some are humorous.Some are revealing.And all of them provide a deeper appreciation for a man whose public career spanned some of the most consequential decades of the twentieth century.Not every story fits neatly into history's timeline.But sometimes the stories left over are among the most interesting of all. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 457 – BOB DOLE: The Life That Brought Him There, Part 38The Bush Years (1989–1992) (C): The ADA, the 1990 Budget Deal, and the End of the Bush Administration (Season Finale)As the George H. W. Bush years draw to a close, Senator Bob Dole finds himself at the center of some of the most consequential legislative battles of his career.In this season finale, we examine three defining chapters of the Bush Administration and Dole's role in shaping them.First, we look at the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, landmark legislation that transformed opportunities for millions of Americans. For Bob Dole, a wounded World War II veteran who spent years overcoming the challenges of disability himself, the issue was deeply personal. We explore how Dole worked across party lines to help move the legislation through Congress and why the ADA became one of the proudest achievements of his public life.Next, we turn to the bitter struggle over the 1990 budget agreement. Facing mounting deficits and economic uncertainty, President Bush entered negotiations with congressional leaders that culminated in a controversial bipartisan deal. The agreement broke Bush's famous "Read My Lips: No New Taxes" pledge, triggering outrage among conservatives and creating divisions within the Republican Party that would linger for years. We examine Dole's difficult position as Senate Republican Leader and his efforts to navigate the competing demands of governing, party loyalty, and fiscal responsibility.Finally, we trace the final years of the Bush presidency, from the triumph of victory in the Gulf War to a slowing economy, rising political challenges, and the turbulent 1992 election. As President Bush's popularity declined and Governor Bill Clinton emerged as a formidable challenger, Bob Dole increasingly found himself looking toward the future—and toward the possibility of his own presidential campaign.This episode closes the story of Bob Dole's journey from war hero to Senate Republican Leader and one of the most influential figures in Washington during the Bush years. Along the way, we have witnessed the experiences, struggles, triumphs, and setbacks that shaped the man who would soon become the Republican Party's standard-bearer.Next season, the story continues with BOB DOLE: 1995 – Clinton's Comeback, as America enters a new political era marked by divided government, the Republican Revolution, and the opening chapters of Bob Dole's final quest for the presidency.The life that brought him there is complete. The campaign that will define his legacy is about to begin. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 456 – BOB DOLE: The Life That Brought Him There, Part 37The Bush Years (1989–1992) (B): The Tower Nomination (2) – The Fight!!The battle lines are drawn.What began as what appeared to be a routine confirmation for former Texas Senator John Tower to become Secretary of Defense quickly exploded into one of the most bitter and contentious nomination fights in modern Senate history.In this episode, we follow the escalating political war that engulfed the Senate as allegations concerning Tower's personal conduct, drinking habits, and relationships with defense contractors dominated headlines across America. Democrats questioned whether Tower possessed the judgment necessary to lead the Pentagon, while Republicans argued that an accomplished public servant was being subjected to rumor, innuendo, and character assassination.At the center of the fight stood Senate Republican Leader Bob Dole. A longtime colleague and friend of Tower, Dole emerged as one of the nomination's most forceful defenders. As the controversy intensified, Dole worked behind the scenes and on the Senate floor to rally Republican support, challenge the accusations against Tower, and defend what he believed was the constitutional responsibility of the Senate to judge a nominee fairly.The confirmation battle soon became about far more than John Tower. It became a struggle over partisanship, personal character, the advice and consent role of the Senate, and the future relationship between Congress and the newly inaugurated Bush Administration.Through committee hearings, floor speeches, media scrutiny, and intense political maneuvering, we examine how the nomination transformed from a personnel decision into a national political showdown. Along the way, we hear from the senators who fought for Tower, those who opposed him, and the leaders who understood that the outcome would set a precedent reaching far beyond a single nomination.This is the fight—the bruising Senate battle that tested friendships, challenged political loyalties, and became one of the defining confirmation struggles of the late twentieth century. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 455 – BOB DOLE: The Life That Brought Him There, Part 36The Bush Years (A): The Tower Nomination (1) – Who Is John Tower?With the election of President George H. W. Bush in 1988, a new Republican administration arrived in Washington, but one of its first major battles would become one of the most controversial cabinet confirmation fights in modern American history.Before we can understand the nomination battle itself, we must first understand the man at its center: former Texas Senator John Tower.In this episode, we examine Tower's remarkable rise from a young Texas history professor to the first Republican elected to the United States Senate from Texas since Reconstruction. We follow his twenty-four-year Senate career, his emergence as one of the Republican Party's leading voices on national defense, and his tenure as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he became one of the nation's foremost authorities on military affairs.We also explore Tower's relationship with fellow Republican leaders, including Senator Bob Dole, President Ronald Reagan, and Vice President-turned-President George H. W. Bush. Along the way, we examine his role in Cold War defense policy, arms control negotiations, and the Iran-Contra investigation that further elevated his national profile.By January 1989, Tower appeared to be the obvious choice to become Secretary of Defense. Few Americans possessed his depth of experience in military affairs, and his confirmation seemed almost certain. Yet within weeks, allegations concerning his personal conduct, drinking, and ties to defense contractors would ignite a political firestorm that would divide the Senate and place longtime allies like Bob Dole in a difficult position.This is the story of the man before the battle—a look at the life and career that brought John Tower to the center of one of the most dramatic confirmation fights in Senate history. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 454 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 35)Bush vs. Dole: The 1988 Campaign (B) — The New Hampshire PrimaryIn Episode 454 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we turn to one of the most decisive moments of the 1988 Republican presidential race: the battle for New Hampshire.Fresh off his victory in the Iowa Caucuses, Bob Dole appeared to have the momentum. For the first time in his long political career, the Republican nomination seemed within reach. The press was talking about a Dole surge, and supporters believed Iowa might be the breakthrough he had spent years pursuing.But standing in his path was Vice President George H. W. Bush, whose campaign suddenly found itself fighting for survival.The New Hampshire Primary would become the turning point.This episode examines:• The aftermath of Dole's Iowa victory • Bush's determination to stop Dole's momentum • The media battles that shaped public perception of the race • The campaign strategies employed by both candidates • The famous and often tense exchanges that became hallmarks of the New Hampshire contest • How one primary helped determine the future nominee of the Republican PartyThe campaign was more than a contest between two candidates. It was a clash of styles, personalities, and political identities within the Republican Party.Dole brought decades of legislative experience, sharp wit, and a reputation as one of Washington's most effective leaders.Bush brought the prestige of the vice presidency, the legacy of the Reagan administration, and a national campaign organization determined to regain control of the race.As the candidates crisscrossed New Hampshire, every speech, debate, television appearance, and campaign stop carried enormous significance.For Bob Dole, New Hampshire represented an opportunity to transform momentum into inevitability.For George Bush, it was a chance to save his campaign.Only one would leave with the advantage.And the outcome would reshape the course of the 1988 Republican presidential nomination battle. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailBOB PACKWOOD (1932–2026): A Look BackSpecial Edition — Plus a Preview of Our Upcoming Bob Packwood SeriesThis special edition of our podcast is dedicated to the life and legacy of Bob Packwood, who passed away this weekend at the age of 94.For nearly three decades, Packwood was one of the most influential, controversial, and consequential members of the United States Senate. A senator who often defied easy ideological labels, he played a major role in shaping tax policy, budget negotiations, health care debates, environmental legislation, and some of the most significant legislative battles of the late twentieth century.In this episode, we look back on Packwood's remarkable life and career through obituary coverage, historical reflections, and an assessment of his impact on the Senate and the nation.Like many influential public figures, Packwood's legacy is a complicated one. His legislative accomplishments and political skill are inseparable from the controversies that ultimately ended his Senate career. This episode seeks to examine the full story of the man, his achievements, his flaws, and the lasting impact he left on American politics.Adding a bittersweet dimension to this tribute is the fact that our production team had just completed a comprehensive 14-part series on Bob Packwood's life and career before learning of his passing.As a result, this special edition also serves as a preview of that upcoming series, giving listeners a glimpse into the topics we will explore in greater depth, including:• Packwood's rise in Oregon politics • His years in the United States Senate • His role in major tax and budget legislation • His relationships with fellow senators, including Bob Dole • His influence on the changing Senate of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s • The controversies that brought his career to an end • His place in the larger story of American political historyFor listeners who have enjoyed our long-form Senate and Bob Dole series, Packwood's story offers another fascinating look inside an institution that shaped modern America.This episode is both a remembrance and a beginning.A farewell to a senator whose influence stretched across generations.And a preview of a series that will explore one of the most complex figures ever to serve in the United States Senate.Bob Packwood. 1932–2026.A life. A career. A complicated legacy.Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 453 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 34)Bush vs. Dole: The 1988 Republican Primary (A) — The Iowa Caucus CampaignIn Episode 453 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we begin our examination of one of the most important and hard-fought campaigns of his political life — the 1988 Republican presidential primary.For years, Dole had risen through the ranks of American politics: Congressman, Senator, Vice Presidential nominee, Chairman of the Finance Committee, and Senate Republican Leader. Now, with Ronald Reagan preparing to leave office, Dole saw what many believed would be his best opportunity to capture the Republican nomination for President.Standing in his way was Reagan's Vice President, George H. W. Bush, the early favorite and heir apparent to much of the Reagan coalition.This episode focuses on the opening battleground of the campaign — the Iowa Caucuses.We explore:• Why Iowa became so critical to Dole's strategy • The strengths and weaknesses of the Dole and Bush campaigns • The role of retail politics and grassroots organization in Iowa • The issues and themes shaping the Republican contest • The intense competition between two longtime Republican leadersThe Iowa campaign showcased two very different political styles. Dole relied on his legislative experience, sharp debating skills, and Midwestern roots, while Bush sought to build upon the popularity of the Reagan administration and his standing as Vice President.As the candidates crisscrossed Iowa, the stakes could not have been higher. A strong showing could provide momentum toward the nomination. A poor performance could bring a campaign to a sudden halt.This is the beginning of a rivalry that would shape the Republican Party's future — and one of the most fascinating presidential contests of the Reagan era.The battle lines are drawn.The caucuses are approaching.And the road to the 1988 Republican nomination begins in Iowa. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn this special edition episode, we turn our attention to one of the most accomplished public servants of her generation, Elizabeth Dole, as we revisit her 1990 Landon Lecture delivered at Kansas State University.At the time serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor, Dole brought to the podium a wealth of experience gained through leadership roles in multiple presidential administrations. Her lecture explored the challenges and opportunities facing America at the dawn of a new decade, addressing issues of work, economic change, personal responsibility, public service, and the evolving role of government in American life.Known for her intellect, poise, and commitment to public service, Dole offered thoughtful reflections on the values that strengthen communities and the importance of leadership in times of transition. Her remarks provide a fascinating snapshot of the political and economic landscape of 1990 while highlighting themes that remain relevant today.Join us as we examine Elizabeth Dole's message, the historical context surrounding her address, and the lasting significance of her contributions to American public life in this special presentation of the 1990 Landon Lecture. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailFor Episode 452 of the podcast, we continue our in-depth exploration of the remarkable life and career of Bob Dole with Part 33 of The Life That Brought Him There. In this episode, we revisit Dole's March 25, 1985 appearance at the prestigious Landon Lecture, where the Kansas senator delivered a speech titled “The Dream of America.” The lecture came at a pivotal moment in Dole's political rise, as he was emerging as one of the most influential voices in the United States Senate and would soon become Senate Majority Leader. Drawing inspiration from the legacy of Alf Landon, Dole reflected on American ideals, opportunity, technological progress, national responsibility, and the challenges facing a new generation. He spoke about the importance of courage in public life, the promise of individual dreams, and the need to confront issues such as poverty, nuclear tensions, and fiscal responsibility while preserving the values that define the American experiment. Join us as we examine the themes, historical context, and political significance of this landmark address, offering a window into Dole's vision for America and the principles that shaped one of the most consequential public servants of the twentieth century. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 451 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we examine the substance of Bob Dole's years as Senate Republican Leader — the legislation passed, the compromises forged, and the institutional changes that reshaped the United States Senate during his watch.By the time Dole reached the height of Senate leadership, Washington was entering a period of major political and procedural transformation. The Senate of his early years — built heavily on personal relationships, committee power, and bipartisan negotiation — was beginning to evolve into a more partisan, media-driven institution.At the same time, major policy battles were unfolding across nearly every area of government.This episode explores:• Key legislation and policy accomplishments during Dole's leadership years • Budget battles, tax policy, and fiscal negotiations • The increasing nationalization of Senate politics • Changes in Senate procedure, leadership dynamics, and party strategy • How television, media, and messaging began reshaping the institution • The challenge of governing during an era of growing polarizationThroughout the episode, we see Dole operating not simply as a partisan leader, but as a legislative manager trying to balance ideology, political reality, and the practical demands of governing.The Senate was changing. The country was changing. And Bob Dole stood at the center of that transition.This is the story of leadership during a transformative era — when major policy was still being passed, but the institution itself was beginning to become something very different. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 450 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we move beyond the title of Senate Republican Leader and examine the qualities Bob Dole brought to the job — both as Majority Leader and Minority Leader of the United States Senate.Leadership in the Senate is unlike leadership anywhere else in American government. It requires patience, discipline, persuasion, timing, and above all, the ability to manage strong personalities while navigating constantly shifting political realities.This episode explores the leadership characteristics that defined Dole's approach and helped him become one of the most respected congressional leaders of his generation.Among the traits examined:• His sharp political instincts and tactical discipline • His mastery of Senate procedure and legislative strategy • His ability to negotiate and build coalitions • His use of humor and wit as political tools • His loyalty to the institution of the Senate itself • His balancing act between ideology and practical governanceWhether serving in the majority or the minority, Dole understood that Senate leadership required flexibility as much as conviction. He could be partisan when necessary, bipartisan when possible, and pragmatic when governing demanded it.The episode also reflects on how Dole's wartime experiences, personal resilience, and years in public service shaped his leadership style — giving him both toughness and perspective in moments of conflict and crisis.This is a portrait of leadership not built on charisma alone, but on preparation, endurance, and understanding how power actually works inside the Senate.A leader of strategy. A leader of relationships. And a leader shaped by both ambition and experience. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn this special tribute edition, we say goodbye to one of the great institutions in American broadcasting history — CBS News Radio — with a rebroadcast of its final network broadcast after nearly a century on the air.For generations of Americans, CBS News Radio was more than a news service. It was a trusted companion through war, triumph, tragedy, elections, disasters, and defining moments in world history. From the earliest days of modern broadcasting through the rise of television, cable news, and now podcasting, CBS Radio helped define what broadcast journalism sounded like.Its voices carried history into homes, cars, offices, and communities across the country.This special edition honors that legacy by revisiting the network's final sign-off — a moment filled with reflection, gratitude, and the recognition that an extraordinary chapter in American media history has come to a close.Throughout its existence, CBS News Radio represented:• The golden age of radio journalism • Live coverage during moments of national crisis and world conflict • The evolution of modern news reporting • The foundation upon which much of today's audio broadcasting and podcasting culture was builtFor those of us working in audio today, this is not simply the end of a network — it is the farewell to one of the pioneers that made everything we do possible.The technology changed. The platforms changed. But the power of a voice telling the story of the world remained.This episode is offered in tribute and appreciation to the journalists, broadcasters, engineers, producers, and storytellers who carried the CBS News Radio tradition forward for nearly 100 years.From one era of broadcasting to another… thank you, CBS News Radio. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 449 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we examine one of the defining turning points of his career — his election as Senate Republican Leader.After years of legislative battles, committee leadership, presidential campaigns, and political setbacks, Dole rose to one of the most powerful positions in Washington: leader of the Republicans in the United States Senate.But what exactly makes a Senate leader?This episode explores not only how Dole secured the position, but what leadership inside the Senate truly required during an era of intense political change. More than a title, Senate leadership demanded strategy, negotiation, discipline, coalition-building, and the ability to manage competing personalities and priorities within the Republican conference.In this episode, we explore:• The political circumstances surrounding Dole's rise to leadership • The internal dynamics of the Senate Republican caucus • How Dole earned the trust and support of fellow senators • The leadership qualities that defined his approach • The challenges of balancing ideology, governance, and party unityAs Republican Leader, Dole became more than a senator from Kansas — he became one of the central figures in national politics and a key architect of Senate Republican strategy during the Reagan era and beyond.This episode marks the beginning of a new chapter:From legislator… to strategist… to leader.And in the process, we begin to see the qualities that made Bob Dole one of the most consequential Senate leaders of his generation. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 448 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 29)Feeding Children All Around the World with Senator George McGovernIn Episode 448 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we explore one of the most remarkable bipartisan partnerships in modern American political history — Bob Dole's work with former Senator George McGovern to combat hunger and feed children around the world.Though they stood on opposite sides of the political spectrum — and had once represented very different visions for America — Dole and McGovern forged a friendship and working relationship rooted in shared humanity and a belief that fighting hunger should rise above politics.Together, they became leading advocates for international food assistance programs and school nutrition initiatives designed to help children in some of the poorest regions of the world. Their efforts would eventually contribute to programs that provided meals, hope, and opportunity to millions.This episode explores:• How the unlikely partnership between Dole and McGovern developed • Their shared commitment to fighting hunger and malnutrition • The creation and expansion of international school feeding programs • How bipartisan cooperation made these efforts possible • The personal respect and friendship that grew between the two senatorsAt a time when politics is often defined by division, the story of Bob Dole and George McGovern stands as a reminder that public service can still be guided by compassion, common purpose, and the willingness to work across ideological lines.This is not a story about campaigns or elections.It is a story about feeding children. About finding common ground. And about two former political rivals who chose to leave the world better than they found it. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 447 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 28)Saving Social SecurityIn Episode 447 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we examine one of the most important bipartisan legislative efforts of the modern era — the fight to preserve and stabilize Social Security during the early 1980s.At a time when the Social Security system faced a looming financial crisis and fears grew that the government could soon be unable to meet its obligations, Washington was forced into difficult negotiations with enormous political stakes.This episode explores the effort to “save Social Security” — and the central role Bob Dole played in navigating one of the most sensitive and consequential policy debates of his Senate career.Working alongside President Ronald Reagan, congressional leaders, and members of both parties, Dole became a key figure in the negotiations that ultimately produced a compromise designed to strengthen the program's long-term stability.In this episode, we explore:• The financial crisis facing Social Security in the early 1980s • The political risks surrounding reform efforts • Bob Dole's role in the negotiations and legislative strategy • The bipartisan cooperation required to reach an agreement • How the reforms reshaped Social Security for future generationsThis is a story not just about policy, but about governing — the challenge of balancing political reality with fiscal responsibility while dealing with one of the most important programs in American life.In an era often remembered for ideological battles, the Social Security compromise stood as a reminder that major legislation still required negotiation, trust, and compromise.A system on the brink. A Senate forced to act. And Bob Dole at the center of one of Washington's defining bipartisan moments. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 446 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 27)Ronald Reagan and Bob DoleIn Episode 446 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we take a closer look at one of the defining relationships of the 1980s — Dole's partnership with Ronald Reagan.Moving beyond policy and legislation, this episode explores the personal and professional dynamic between two very different leaders who nevertheless worked together to shape an era. Dole, the disciplined Senate tactician, and Reagan, the communicator-in-chief, formed a relationship grounded in mutual respect, political necessity, and a shared sense of purpose.Through firsthand reflections and recollections, we also hear from fellow senators who worked alongside Reagan — offering a portrait of a president who inspired not just loyalty, but genuine affection.In this episode, they reflect on:• What it was like to work directly with Ronald Reagan • How Reagan built relationships across the Senate • The balance between leadership, delegation, and persuasion • The personal side of Reagan — including his well-known love of humor and storytellingThe tone is unmistakable: admiration, respect, and, in many cases, fondness.These are not just political recollections — they are personal memories. Stories of conversations, moments of levity, and the kind of human connection that often goes unseen in the historical record.At a time when leadership required both vision and relationships, Reagan left a lasting impression on those who served with him.And through Bob Dole's experience — and the voices of his colleagues — we see why.A president remembered not just for policy… but for presence, personality… and the ability to bring people together. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 445 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 26)The 1981 Tax Bill, TEFRA, and Ronald ReaganIn Episode 445 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we examine one of the most consequential policy chapters of the early 1980s — and one that placed Dole at the center of economic policymaking in Washington.This episode focuses on two landmark pieces of legislation:• The sweeping 1981 tax cuts championed by Ronald Reagan — a cornerstone of the Reagan economic program that aimed to stimulate growth and reshape the federal tax system • And the follow-up legislation, the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA), designed to close loopholes and address the fiscal challenges that emerged in the wake of those cutsAs Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Bob Dole played a critical and often underappreciated role in navigating both efforts — balancing ideological goals with the practical realities of governing.This episode explores:• How the 1981 tax bill was crafted and passed • The economic and political consequences that followed • Why TEFRA became necessary just one year later • The tension between tax reduction and fiscal responsibility • The working relationship between Dole and President Reagan — cooperation, negotiation, and occasional frictionAt the heart of the story is a fundamental question: how do you govern when policy goals collide with fiscal reality?Through these debates, we see Bob Dole not just as a political figure, but as a legislative strategist — working within the system to make ambitious policy function in the real world.From bold tax cuts… to difficult corrections… and a partnership that helped define an era.This is the story of policy, power, and pragmatism in the early Reagan years. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 444 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 25)Mr. Chairman!! The Finance Committee ChairIn Episode 444 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we arrive at a defining moment in his rise to power in the United States Senate — his elevation to Chairman of the powerful Senate Finance Committee.For years, that gavel had been held by Russell B. Long, one of the most influential figures in the Senate and a master of its internal workings. His tenure symbolized an era when seniority and institutional control defined leadership.But with the arrival of the Reagan era, the ground beneath Washington began to shift.As the political realignment of Ronald Reagan took hold, Bob Dole stepped into the chairmanship — marking not just a personal milestone, but a broader transition in power, policy, and direction.One moment captures it all.When the new chairman was called upon for his vote — for the first time, that chairman was Bob Dole. And in a telling, almost poetic gesture, Russell Long himself responded “aye,” acknowledging both the change in leadership and the passing of an era.In this episode, we explore:• How Dole rose to claim one of the most powerful positions in the Senate • The significance of the Finance Committee in shaping national policy • The transition from Russell Long's leadership to Dole's • What this moment revealed about the changing nature of Washington in the early 1980s • How the Reagan Revolution reshaped both policy and power inside the SenateThis is more than a change in chairmanship — it is a moment of transformation.From Long to Dole… from one era to another… and from the old Senate to a new political age. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 443 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 24)The 1980 Republican Presidential PrimaryIn Episode 443 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we turn to one of the most pivotal — and ultimately disappointing — chapters in his political journey: his campaign for President in 1980.Viewed through the lens of Dole's candidacy, this episode offers a revealing look at a Republican Party in transition — searching for direction in the aftermath of the 1970s and on the brink of a conservative realignment.At the center of that transformation stood Ronald Reagan, whose vision and political momentum would come to define the era. Alongside him was George H. W. Bush, representing a different wing of the party and mounting a formidable campaign of his own.Caught between these two rising forces, Dole's campaign struggled to find its footing.This episode assesses:• Why Dole entered the race — and what he hoped to achieve • The challenges he faced in a rapidly shifting political environment • His relationships with Reagan and Bush — both as rivals and future allies • The strategic and structural weaknesses that hindered his campaign • How the outcome reshaped Dole's future in national politicsThough his presidential bid fell short, the campaign itself provides valuable insight into Dole's political identity — pragmatic, disciplined, and deeply rooted in the Senate — and highlights the difficulty of translating that identity into a national movement during a time of ideological change.More broadly, this episode captures a turning point in Republican politics:A party moving toward Reagan… a field adjusting to that reality… and a candidate in Bob Dole, whose moment had not yet arrived.A campaign that didn't succeed — but still helped define the path forward. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 442 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 23)The Senate (F): The United States Supreme Court FightsIn Episode 442 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we examine one of the most contentious and consequential arenas of the United States Senate — the confirmation battles over the Supreme Court.This episode traces the evolution of those fights across the Dole era, beginning just before he entered the Senate with the failed nomination of Abe Fortas — a turning point that signaled a new level of scrutiny and political conflict in the confirmation process.From there, we move through a series of increasingly high-stakes battles:• The nominations of Clement Haynsworth and G. Harrold Carswell • The explosive and precedent-setting fight over Robert Bork • And the deeply divisive confirmation of Clarence ThomasCentral to this story — and featured throughout the episode — is Strom Thurmond, a dominant figure on the Senate Judiciary Committee and a key player in shaping the outcomes and tone of these battles.Together, these confirmation fights transformed the Senate's constitutional role of “advice and consent,” turning what had often been a more restrained process into one of the most visible and politically charged responsibilities of the chamber.In this episode, we explore:• How and why confirmation battles became more contentious • The growing role of ideology, media, and public pressure • The strategies used by both supporters and opponents of nominees • The long-term impact on judicial confirmations at every levelThis is the story of how Supreme Court nominations became political battlegrounds — and how the Senate was changed in the process.From Fortas to Thomas… a transformation of power, process, and precedent. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 441 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 22)The Senate (E): Stories from the SenateIn Episode 441 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we step away from structure and strategy — and into the stories.Featuring the same remarkable group of senators heard throughout this series — including Bob Packwood, Chuck Grassley, Thad Cochran, Trent Lott, Tom Daschle, Daniel Inouye, Alan Simpson, and Bob Dole himself — this episode offers a more personal and entertaining look at life inside the United States Senate.These are the moments that don't always make the history books.The behind-the-scenes exchanges. The unexpected humor. The human side of an institution often seen only through formal debate and high-stakes decisions.In this episode, the senators share stories from their time in office — anecdotes that reveal not just how the Senate worked, but what it felt like to be there. Through these recollections, we see a chamber shaped as much by personality and camaraderie as by rules and procedure.It's a reminder that even in one of the most powerful institutions in the world, relationships mattered — and sometimes, it was the lighter moments that built the trust needed to govern.For listeners who want to go even deeper, a full transcript of this episode is available on the Buzzsprout page.Part 22 brings the Senate to life in a different way — not through policy… but through story. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 440 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 21)The Senate (D): How the Senate Has ChangedIn Episode 440 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we turn from how the United States Senate worked… to how it has changed.Building on the voices featured in the previous episodes, this installment brings together firsthand reflections from senators who lived through a transformative era in the institution — including Bob Packwood, Chuck Grassley, Thad Cochran, Trent Lott, Tom Daschle, Daniel Inouye, Alan Simpson, and Bob Dole himself.Through their perspectives, we explore a central question: What happened to the Senate?These senators describe a chamber that once relied heavily on personal relationships, bipartisan negotiation, and institutional loyalty — and contrast it with a body that, over time, has grown more polarized, more procedural, and in many ways, more constrained.In this episode, they reflect on:• The erosion of collegiality and cross-party relationships • Changes in leadership style and party dynamics • The evolving role of media and public pressure • How Senate rules and norms have shifted over time • What has been lost — and what, if anything, has been gainedThis is not just history — it is perspective.A look back from those who knew the Senate at its most functional, offering insight into how and why it feels different today.From institution… to transformation… to reflection.Episode 440 captures the Senate in transition — through the eyes of those who helped shape it. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 439 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 20)The Senate (C): How the Senate WorksIn Episode 439 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we take a deeper look inside one of America's most complex institutions — the United States Senate — and explore how it actually works.This episode moves beyond personalities alone and into the structure, rules, and tools that define the Senate — particularly during a period marked by extraordinary leadership and institutional knowledge.Drawing on firsthand reflections from many of the same voices featured in our previous episode — including Bob Packwood, Chuck Grassley, Thad Cochran, Trent Lott, Tom Daschle, Daniel Inouye, Alan Simpson, and Bob Dole himself — we hear directly from those who understood the institution from the inside.Together, they explain:• How Senate rules shape outcomes • The role of committees and seniority • The tools leaders use to move legislation forward — or stop it • The importance of relationships, trust, and negotiation • How personalities influence the pace and direction of the chamberThis is a portrait of the Senate as a living institution — one that runs not just on procedure, but on people.At a time when leadership required patience, strategy, and an ability to navigate competing interests, these voices offer rare insight into how the Senate functioned at a high level — and how it managed to govern in an era of both conflict and cooperation.If Episode 438 introduced the leaders… Episode 439 shows you how they led.A behind-the-scenes look at the rules, the rhythm, and the reality of the United States Senate. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 438 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 19)The Senate (B): The Senate LeadersIn Episode 438 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we move deeper into the inner workings of the United States Senate — focusing on the men who have led it, and the methods they used to make it function.This episode explores the often unseen world of Senate leadership — where influence is built not just through speeches, but through relationships, negotiation, and a deep understanding of the institution itself.We examine the leadership styles and legacies of key figures, including Lyndon B. Johnson, whose mastery of the Senate remains legendary; Mike Mansfield, known for his quiet, steady approach; Hugh Scott; Howard Baker; and Bob Dole himself, whose leadership would come to define an era.But this episode is not just about history — it's about hearing directly from those who lived it.Featuring voices from across the Senate, including Bob Packwood, Chuck Grassley, Thad Cochran, Trent Lott, Tom Daschle, Daniel Inouye, and Alan Simpson, we gain firsthand insight into how Senate leaders actually get things done.From committee assignments and legislative strategy to coalition-building and floor management, these conversations reveal the tools of leadership inside one of the world's most complex governing bodies.This is the Senate behind the scenes — where power is exercised quietly, and leadership is measured not just by words, but by results. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 437 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There The Senate (A): A Mosaic of the SenateIn Episode 437 of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we shift our focus from the campaign trail to the institution that would define much of his public life — the United States Senate.This episode explores the Senate of the 1970s as Dole began his rise within its ranks — a chamber shaped by powerful personalities, unwritten rules, and a very different pace of politics than what we see today.In the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, the Senate was undergoing change, yet it remained a place where relationships, negotiation, and institutional knowledge carried enormous weight. Seniority mattered. Committee work mattered. And above all, the ability to navigate the personalities within the chamber mattered.We examine what made this era of the Senate unique:• How the Senate functioned day-to-day in the 1970s • The culture of collegiality and conflict within the chamber • The leadership structure and how influence was built • The environment that allowed Bob Dole to emerge as a key Republican voiceThis is a portrait — a mosaic — of a Senate that no longer quite exists, but whose traditions and dynamics shaped generations of American leadership.Before Bob Dole became a national figure, he became a Senate figure. And to understand his rise, you have to understand the Senate he entered. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailWelcome to this special edition of the program.Today, we mark the end of an era in American broadcasting — the closing chapter of CBS News Radio, which has announced it will cease operations after nearly a century on the air, this coming May 22.For 99 years, CBS News Radio has been more than a network. It has been a voice — steady, trusted, and present at some of the most important moments in modern history.From the crackling urgency of World War II broadcasts, to the calm authority of reporters bringing the world into American homes, CBS helped define what radio journalism could be. It set the standard — for accuracy, for immediacy, and for storytelling that made listeners feel not just informed, but connected.In this special episode, we look back at that legacy.You'll hear archival moments that capture the power of radio at its peak — including wartime reporting that brought distant battlefields into living rooms, and behind-the-scenes reflections on how CBS News Radio operated, adapted, and helped build the very foundation of modern broadcast journalism.Because what we do today — in this medium, in podcasting — did not emerge in a vacuum.It was built on the work of those who came before. The pacing, the storytelling, the intimacy of voice — all of it traces back to institutions like CBS News Radio.This is, in many ways, the grandfather of what we do today.And that's why this moment carries a certain weight.It is not just the end of a network. It is the closing of a chapter that began when radio itself was still new — when the idea of hearing the world, as it happened, was nothing short of revolutionary.Today, we honor that contribution.We remember the voices, the moments, and the legacy.And we say goodbye. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailThe Vice Presidential Campaign of 1976 (D): The Final StretchIn Part 17, we bring the 1976 campaign to its conclusion.As Election Day approaches, Bob Dole and President Gerald Ford push through the final stretch of a hard-fought race against Jimmy Carter.The campaign had tightened significantly in its closing days, with momentum shifting and the outcome uncertain until the very end.This episode covers:• The final campaign strategy and messaging • The closing arguments to the American people • Election night and the razor-thin result • The narrow defeat that ended Ford's presidencyThough the ticket fell just short, the campaign marked a defining chapter in Bob Dole's career — establishing him as a national figure and setting the stage for the political battles still to come. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan Mail The Vice Presidential Campaign of 1976 (C): The Debate Part 16 presents one of the defining moments of the 1976 campaign — the vice presidential debate between Bob Dole and Walter Mondale.In this episode, we bring you the full debate, allowing you to hear the exchange as it happened — unfiltered and in its entirety.The debate became one of the most talked-about events of the campaign, remembered for its sharp contrasts, pointed arguments, and a controversial line from Dole that drew national attention.As you listen, consider:• The tone and strategy of both candidates • How foreign policy and recent history shaped the discussion • The role debates played in presidential politics during this eraThis is a rare opportunity to experience a pivotal political moment exactly as voters did in 1976. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailWelcome to this special edition of the program.Today, we step into one of the most consequential moments in American political history — and into the life of a man who, almost reluctantly, changed the course of that history.Alexander Butterfield was not a household name when the Watergate scandal began to unfold. He was a quiet figure inside the Nixon White House — disciplined, precise, and largely out of public view. But in a single moment of testimony, Butterfield revealed the existence of the secret White House taping system — a disclosure that would transform the investigation and ultimately the presidency of Richard Nixon.In this episode, we take a deeper look — not just at what Butterfield did, but who he was.We explore his life and career, his role inside the Nixon administration, and the weight of the moment that made him a central figure in history. We also examine the complexity of his legacy — our mixed feelings about a man who became, in many ways, the most credible internal critic of Nixon, even as he remained a loyal insider for much of his service.We'll discuss the now-infamous recording system itself — how it worked, why it existed, and how its discovery reshaped the balance between power and accountability in the American presidency.We also address the controversies and lingering questions — including claims made by E. Howard Hunt suggesting Butterfield may have had connections beyond what was publicly known, and what to make of those assertions in the broader historical record.And we step back to examine the larger strategic picture of the Nixon era — a presidency navigating the Cold War by attempting to play the world's two communist superpowers against each other, a dimension of policy that is often overshadowed in the telling of Watergate, and one that critics like Bob Woodward have been accused by some of underemphasizing.This is not a simple story of heroes and villains.It is a story about power, loyalty, truth — and the moment when one man's words helped expose the inner workings of a presidency.And before we begin, we dedicate this episode to three figures who, in very different arenas, left their own lasting marks.To professional wrestling's Loverboy Dennis Condrey and his partner Beautiful Bobby Eaton, of the legendary The Midnight Express — masters of their craft, whose performances defined an era.And to Chuck Norris — an enduring symbol of strength, discipline, and cultural impact.Three legacies. Three different stages. All remembered.Thank you for joining us. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailThe Vice Presidential Campaign of 1976 (B): Dole on the TrailIn Part 15, we follow Bob Dole as he steps fully into his role as the Republican nominee for Vice President in 1976.Now campaigning alongside President Gerald Ford, Dole becomes one of the administration's most visible and aggressive advocates — traveling the country, sharpening the campaign's message, and taking on the opposition ticket of Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale.This episode explores:• Dole's campaign style and messaging • His role as an attack surrogate for the ticket • Key moments from the campaign trail • The political challenges facing Republicans in a post-Watergate AmericaAs the campaign unfolds, Dole's national profile grows — and so does the intensity of the race. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 433 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 14)The Vice Presidential Campaign of 1976 (A): The Convention and the ChoiceIn Part 14 of our continuing series on Bob Dole, we enter the dramatic political year of 1976 — a moment that would elevate Dole to the national stage.This episode begins with one of the most intense intra-party battles in modern political history: the showdown between Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan at the Republican National Convention.With the party deeply divided and the nomination uncertain until the final moments, the stakes could not have been higher. Out of that chaos came a critical decision — President Ford's selection of Bob Dole as his running mate.We explore:• The Ford vs. Reagan convention battle • The political calculations behind Dole's selection • What Dole brought to the national ticket • How the Republican Party attempted to unify after a bruising primary fightIt was a turning point — not just for Bob Dole, but for the future direction of the Republican Party. Questions or comments at  , Randalrgw1@aol.com ,  https://twitter.com/randal_wallace   , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textEpisode 432 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 13) Roy vs. Dole for U.S. Senate, 1974: One Tenth of One Percent (C)In this thirteenth installment of our continuing series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we reach the dramatic conclusion of one of the closest and most consequential elections in Kansas history — the 1974 race for the United States Senate.As the campaign between Senator Dole and Democratic Congressman William R. Roy entered its final days, the political climate remained extraordinarily difficult for Republicans nationwide. The aftermath of the Watergate scandal had reshaped the national mood, and many believed the Kansas seat was poised to change hands.But what followed was a finish so close it would become legendary.When the votes were finally counted, Bob Dole held his Senate seat by one tenth of one percent — a razor-thin victory that preserved his political career and helped shape the next two decades of American politics.In this episode we walk through the closing days of the campaign, the final strategies, the election night tension, and the stunningly narrow result that decided the race.We also hear reflections from Dr. Roy himself, drawn from his oral history interviews, as he spoke later in life about the campaign, the outcome, and the path his life took afterward. Dr. Roy passed away in May 2014, leaving behind a legacy not only as a physician and public servant but as one of the central figures in one of Kansas's most memorable political contests.The program also features moments from a lecture at the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, where participants revisited the race decades later — including Dr. Roy's son and Bob Dole's campaign manager, former Kansas Lieutenant Governor Dave Owen.Together their reflections provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at a campaign decided by the narrowest of margins — and the respect that endured between opponents long after the ballots were counted.A race decided by one tenth of one percent… and remembered for generations. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textEpisode 431 — Bob Dole: The Life That Brought Him There (Part 12) Roy vs. Dole for U.S. Senate, 1974: The Landscape of 1974 (B)In this twelfth installment of our long-running series on the life and career of Bob Dole, we turn to one of the most difficult political moments of his career — the 1974 United States Senate race in Kansas.The political landscape of 1974 was unlike anything modern candidates experience today. The aftershocks of the Watergate scandal had devastated Republican fortunes across the country, and incumbents from the party faced an electorate angry with Washington.In Kansas, Senator Dole faced a particularly formidable challenger: Democratic Congressman William R. Roy. Roy was well known, highly respected, and enjoying strong popularity as he launched his campaign for the Senate.Meanwhile, Dole entered the race with declining approval numbers and the weight of a difficult national environment pressing down on his campaign. The contest quickly became one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country.This episode also examines a major social and political issue shaping the debate in 1974 — the aftermath of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. With abortion newly legalized nationwide, the issue had suddenly entered American politics in a profound way, influencing voters, campaigns, and the evolving positions of political leaders.In this episode we explore:• The political environment of Kansas in 1974 • Why Congressman William Roy was such a strong challenger • The struggles Senator Dole faced in public opinion • How the national political climate shaped the race • The emerging role of the abortion debate in American politicsIt was a campaign fought in the shadow of national crisis — and one that would prove pivotal in shaping the future career of Bob Dole. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textIn 1974, Bob Dole was up for re-election. He could not have picked a worse moment to be on the ballot as a Republican. Watergate had just unraveled the Presidency of Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford had just pardoned Nixon, and Bob Dole had the added problem of having just gotten a divorce. To make matters worse a popular an effective United States Congressman announced he was going to challenge Dole for his Senate seat. That man was Congressman Bill Roy, a Topeka physician. He was a very effective Congressman. He was also an Obstetrician and that meant that at various times he had performed a limited number of legal abortions. This was just on the heels of the Roe vs Wade Decision that legalized abortion. This election would turn out to be the first such election where abortion would take center stage. It would lead to a brass knuckles type brawl to win the Kansas Senate seat, a race still talked about to this day in Kansas. Bob Dole would barely hold off the challenge. This is the first installment of that story. In this episode, we set the stage and we introduce you to the challenger, Dr. Bill Roy. If this election had gone the other way, Bob Dole would  most likely have faded into time and his historic career, that put him on two national tickets, and led to so many accomplishments in the halls of Congress would never have happened. Such is history, swinging, as we will learn, on one tenth of one percent of the vote in the 1974 United States Senate race in Kansas.  Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textWelcome to the fourth installment of our special tribute series honoring the life and legacy of the Reverend Jesse Jackson — a minister, civil rights leader, presidential candidate, and one of the most recognizable voices in American public life for more than half a century.Over the course of this series, we've revisited the moments that defined Reverend Jackson's remarkable journey — his speeches, his activism, and the powerful moral language he brought to the national conversation about justice, opportunity, and human dignity.Today's episode brings you a montage drawn from two memorial gatherings held in his honor — one in Columbia, South Carolina, and another in Chicago, Illinois, the city where Reverend Jackson built much of his life's work and where his influence on American politics and civil rights was deeply felt.From these ceremonies, you will hear remarks from Congressman James Clyburn, longtime leader in the U.S. House of Representatives and a close friend of Reverend Jackson. You'll also hear from Greenville, South Carolina Mayor Knox White, reflecting on Jackson's roots in South Carolina and the lasting imprint he left on the state and the nation. And we include words from former President Bill Clinton, who spoke about Jackson's role in shaping a generation of political leaders and expanding the boundaries of democratic participation.We do regret that we are unable to include the remarks delivered by Ambassador Andrew Young, former Mayor of Atlanta and former United Nations Ambassador. His words in Columbia were deeply meaningful, but unfortunately they were delivered without a microphone and could not be captured clearly enough for broadcast.We also want to note that Reverend Jackson's family asked that these memorial ceremonies remain moments of remembrance rather than political rallies. Out of respect for that request, we made an editorial decision in producing this program. Several speakers — including some very prominent figures — turned their remarks into overtly political speeches. Even when those speakers included former Presidents or a former Vice President, we chose not to include those portions of the program. Our goal here is to honor the spirit of the occasion and the wishes of the family.What you will hear instead is a carefully assembled tribute — voices remembering Jesse Jackson's life, his faith, and his commitment to lifting others.And woven throughout the program, you'll also hear Jesse Jackson in his own words — excerpts from speeches across the decades, reminding us of the conviction, rhythm, and hope that defined his voice.From Columbia and Chicago, this is our fourth tribute episode honoring Reverend Jesse Jackson. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textWelcome to this special tribute edition of the podcast.Four years after his groundbreaking 1984 campaign, Reverend Jesse Jackson returned to the Democratic National Convention — this time in Atlanta, in 1988 — having achieved something extraordinary.His second presidential run was stronger, broader, and even more disruptive to conventional politics. Jackson won primaries and caucuses across the country, built a multiracial coalition of working-class voters, and demonstrated that progressive populism could compete nationally.But it was his convention speech that became the enduring moment.Measured, gracious, and deeply unifying, Jackson spoke not as a rival, but as a statesman. He urged Democrats to reject fear, to embrace compassion, and to recognize the interconnected fate of all Americans. His words carried themes that resonate decades later: dignity, opportunity, fairness, and the belief that the country is strongest when no one is left behind.The address is remembered not only for its eloquence, but for its tone — reconciliation without retreat, idealism grounded in realism.In this episode, we honor that legacy by revisiting the full speech.From the 1988 Democratic National Convention:Reverend Jesse Jackson. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textI had the honor of appearing on the show "Tripp and Graham have Issues" this past week. It is a new podcast in Myrtle Beach. I was thrilled to do it and we talked pretty extensively on the history of our show and the entire Wallace Podcast Network (WPN). We hope you enjoy this special edition. Here is the write up from their podcast and we encourage you tune into their show too. Here is their link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2590218/episodes/18782174Tripp and Graham uncover the issues of Randall Wallace: author, podcaster, local political figure.  We discuss presidents like Nixon and Dole, American and Myrtle Beach History and other topics.RandallWallace.comThe Nixon Conspiracy: Watergate and the Plot to Remove the President by Geoff ShepardThe Real Watergate Scandal: Collusion, Conspiracy, and the Plot That Brought Nixon Down by Geoff ShepardPodcast: The Richard Nixon Experience by Randall Wallace                 BOB DOLE: The Life That Brought Him There by Randall Wallace Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textToday's episode is a special rebroadcast and tribute — a return to one of the defining voices of modern American political history.In 1984, at the Democratic National Convention in San Francisco, Reverend Jesse Jackson stepped onto the national stage not simply as a candidate, but as a movement leader. His campaign had galvanized millions — expanding the electorate, registering new voters, and bringing together what he called the Rainbow Coalition: Black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, young, old, urban, rural — Americans whose voices too often went unheard.Jackson's speech that night was more than rhetoric. It was a moral argument about inclusion, economic justice, peace, and the unfinished promise of democracy. He spoke of common ground rather than division, of hope rather than cynicism.For many listeners then — and many historians now — it marked a turning point. It broadened the language of coalition politics and challenged the party, and the country, to imagine a larger “we.”In this tribute episode, we revisit that historic address — not as a relic, but as a living document of aspiration and courage.Here now, from the 1984 Democratic National Convention:Reverend Jesse Jackson. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Send a textWelcome to a special edition of the program.Today we focus on what may prove to be one of the most consequential military operations of the 21st century — Operation Epic Fury — the coordinated action undertaken by the United States and Israel against the Iranian regime.President Donald J. Trump has described this operation as decisive and necessary — aimed at dismantling what he and his administration have long called the world's leading state sponsor of terror and ending Iran's pursuit of nuclear capability. Standing alongside him, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has framed the action as essential to Israel's survival and to the broader security of the Middle East.Supporters of the operation see this as a historic turning point — the possible end of a regime they believe has destabilized the region for decades through proxy warfare, threats against Israel, suppression of its own people, and hostility toward the West.This episode includes editorial commentary from me, Randal Wallace. I want to be clear with our audience at the outset: I strongly support this operation and the leadership shown in carrying it out. Throughout this program, I will offer my analysis and perspective on why I believe this action was justified, necessary, and long overdue.At the same time, we will examine the strategic implications, the global reaction, and what the potential end of the Iranian regime could mean for the people of Iran, for Israel, for the United States, and for the future balance of power in the Middle East.This is a serious moment in history. The stakes are enormous. The consequences — geopolitical, economic, and humanitarian — will unfold in real time.Thank you for joining us for this important conversation. Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!