Ruthless

When Democrats suddenly “discover” scandals in their own ranks, is it accountability… or strategy? Is the media actually exposing corruption—or just deciding who gets sacrificed?  The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—bring you a brutal week for Democrats, where long-buried stories explode into the open and the timing raises more questions than answers. Because let's be honest: none of this came out of nowhere. The allegations, the whispers, the patterns—they've been there. So why now? And more importantly… who's next? The fellas connect the dots between media silence, political usefulness, and the moment someone becomes expendable. From Capitol Hill chaos to a shocking corruption case flying under the radar, this isn't just scandal—it's a system. In this episode…Swalwell fallout and the sudden media awakeningThe Gallego connection and what he knew (and when)A Democrat corruption case you definitely didn't hear aboutHow party power determines who gets protected—and who doesn't PLUS, A CONGRESSWOMAN ALLEGEDLY STEALS MILLIONS… AND WEARS THE DIAMOND RING SHE BOUGHT WITH THE MONEY IN HER OFFICIAL PORTRAIT. Then the fellas zoom out. What happens when the media stops pretending? What does it mean for the future of the Democratic Party—and who's really in charge? And just when you think it couldn't get more chaotic… enter Joe Biden, back on stage and reminding everyone why 2024 ended the way it did. Special Guest:Rep. Ben Cline– The Virginia gerrymandering battle that could reshape Congress – Why a 10–1 map is even being attempted– How rural voters get erased in modern redistricting– What this fight signals for the 2026 elections And because this is the Variety Program… it goes completely off the rails. From communist sympathizers on college campuses to humanoid robots chasing wild boars, nothing is off limits. Question of the Day:Predictions - What's the final vote on the VA gerrymander? If you're not subscribed, you're behind. Hit subscribe, follow us everywhere, and jump into the comments—we read it all and bring the best takes into the show. 00:03:08 Swalwell Scandal Erupts and Democrats Pretend Ignorance 00:06:32 Media Knew About Allegations and Stayed Silent 00:09:33 Gallego Pressed on Swalwell Ties and Shifting Story 00:22:17 Shirtless Photo and Democrat Double Standards 00:23:14 Hidden Democrat Corruption Case Involving Disaster Relief Funds 00:32:47 Virginia Gerrymandering Fight Explained with Rep. Ben Cline 00:35:11 How Democrats Plan a 10-1 Map in a Purple State 00:45:53 What Virginia Vote Means for National Politics 00:58:10 Founders' Vision vs Modern Representation Debate 01:02:10 Biden's Public Appearance Raises Questions Again 01:07:15 Hasan Piker and the Rise of Radical Democrat Messaging 01:15:08 King of the Hill Segment Returns with Max Boot vs George Conway ➢ Subscribe on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ruthless/id1535384390 ➢ Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uj2OGFyb9QnrpZw1nYv7E ➢ Visit our website: https://www.ruthlesspodcast.com/ ➢ Ruthless on X: https://x.com/RuthlessPodcast ➢ Ruthless on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthlessPodcast ➢ Ruthless on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthlesspod ➢ Ruthless on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialruthlesspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is the media exposing the truth—or just taking out one of their own? And if a Democrat goes down, is it ever really about accountability… or just clearing the field for the next one up? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook (with Comfortably Smug out on assignment)—jump straight into the Eric Swalwell implosion with special Guest Ben Domenech. What's the deeper game being played behind the scenes? Because this isn't just a scandal—it's a case study. Allegations pile up, the media suddenly “discovers” what they already knew, and a rising Democrat gets wiped out overnight. So the real question is: why now… and who benefits?The fellas break it all down—how power actually works inside the Democratic Party, why California is the ultimate prize, and how the media decides who survives and who gets buried.In this episode…The Swalwell scandal and the perfectly timed political takedownWhy media attacks on Democrats always serve another DemocratCalifornia's outsized influence on national policy—and why it mattersHow internal Democrat power struggles are shaping the future of the party PLUS, AN INTERN RESIGNS LIKE HE'S A CABINET SECRETARY—AND IT'S EXACTLY AS RIDICULOUS AS IT SOUNDS. And it only gets better. The fellas dive into the broader collapse of Democrat messaging, the struggle to win back young male voters, and why some of the loudest voices shaping the party today are completely out of step with everyday Americans. Then it's onto Iran, global energy politics, and the kind of high-stakes chess match most of the media refuses to explain.Special Guest:Ben Domenech (The Daily Wire)– The future of conservative media and opinion writing

Is the next “rising star” in politics already crashing back to earth? How does someone win big, get crowned the future of a party… and then immediately start losing the public? The fellas—Michael Duncan, Comfortably Smug, and John Ashbrook—jump straight into the rise and sudden fall of Abigail Spanberger, and what it tells you about how political narratives are built—and how fast they collapse. Because this wasn't supposed to happen. She was marketed as the answer. The moderate. The safe pick. The future. So why are the numbers already turning? And what happens when voters realize they weren't sold the full story? The fellas break it all down—how the “centrist” label gets used, how campaigns say one thing and govern another, and why this might be the blueprint Democrats are trying to run everywhere… whether it works or not. In this episode…The rapid rise—and even faster fall—of Abigail SpanbergerHow the “moderate Democrat” label wins electionsThe redistricting fight blowing up in VirginiaWhy 2028 hopefuls should be paying very close attention And because it's Fun Time Friday… it goes completely off the rails. From cultural insanity to political chaos, this one covers everything. Special Guest: Dr. John Fleming (Louisiana State Treasurer & U.S. Senate Candidate)– His path from doctor and Navy veteran to Senate candidate

Is the outrage real—or is it all just a performance? When the facts start coming in and the narrative falls apart, why do the loudest voices double down instead of backing off? The fellas—Michael Duncan, Comfortably Smug, and John Ashbrook—discuss the chaos surrounding Iran and expose what might be the biggest problem in modern politics: the “hot take economy.” Because here's the reality no one wants to admit—when the conflict started, the takes were locked in. Outcomes didn't matter. Facts didn't matter. And when the ceasefire hit? The same people just… flipped the script. So what are we actually watching—analysis, or just people chasing clicks and cash? In this episode…The Iran ceasefire vs the media meltdown that followedHow the “hot take economy” locks in narratives before facts existDemocrat infighting exploding in California primaries2028 candidates running from their own 2020 positions PLUS, A CORPORATE RETREAT SO INSANE IT INVOLVES NAVY SEALS, FIRE ANTS, AND A NEEDLE TO THE BUTT. And it doesn't stop there. The fellas dig into Swalwell allegations coming from inside the Democrat machine, break down why primaries are where the real knives come out, and expose how politicians are trying to memory-hole their own records before 2028 even starts. Then it's Hack Madness Championship time—where two all-time media hacks go head-to-head for ultimate glory. Question of the Day:Is the Iran conflict over? Or is the pause temporary? If you're not subscribed, you're missing it. Hit subscribe, follow us everywhere, and jump into the comments—we read it all and use your takes on the show. 00:03:08 Ceasefire with Iran Sparks Immediate Political Firestorm 00:04:55 Take Economy Accused of Bias Against Trump on Iran 00:06:08 Military Gains in Iran Conflict vs Political Backlash 00:08:38 Libertarian Right Splits Over War Strategy 00:10:44 Democrats Flip Messaging After Ceasefire Announcement 00:14:08 AOC and Critics Double Down Despite Ceasefire 00:18:31 Trump Outlines Ceasefire Terms and Iran Objectives 00:22:15 JD Vance Warns Against Political Black-Pilling 00:24:18 Eric Swalwell Scandal Allegations Surface from Democrats 00:37:48 Democrats Quietly Abandon 2020 Positions Ahead of 2028 00:55:05 Newsom Family Controversy and Criminal Justice Debate 01:00:01 Georgia Special Election Signals Midterm Warning Signs ➢ Subscribe on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ruthless/id1535384390 ➢ Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uj2OGFyb9QnrpZw1nYv7E ➢ Visit our website: https://www.ruthlesspodcast.com/ ➢ Ruthless on X: https://x.com/RuthlessPodcast ➢ Ruthless on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthlessPodcast ➢ Ruthless on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthlesspod ➢ Ruthless on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialruthlesspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is the federal government supposed to run your life—or just protect your freedom? When politicians start promising childcare, healthcare, housing, and everything in between… are they helping you, or making you dependent? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, and John Ashbrook—jump straight into one of the biggest fights shaping the future of the country: what is the role of government in America today? Because this isn't just policy—it's direction. One side wants more control, more spending, more dependence. The other is asking a question we haven't seriously debated in over a decade: what happens when the system gets too big to manage—and too easy to exploit? In this episode… Trump's argument on federal vs state power—and why it's blowing up online How government programs are being exploited at scale Why fraud, waste, and abuse are no longer just talking points—they're visible everywhere The growing cracks inside the Democratic Party's own base PLUS, A NAKED BURGLAR IN VIRGINIA THAT SOMEHOW TURNS INTO A POLITICAL ARGUMENT. We also break down the ActBlue investigation that could shake up Democratic fundraising, CNN admitting Dem voters don't trust their own leadership, and a Hack Madness Final Four update! And yes… Fun Time Friday delivers again. It always does. Special Guest: Michael Kratsios (White House Director of Science & Technology) – The national AI framework and why it matters for everyday Americans

Is America actually back—or are we just finally remembering who we are? When a bar full of strangers erupts like it's the Super Bowl over a rocket launch, what does that say about the country the media keeps trying to write off? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, and John Ashbrook—jump straight into the tension between a rising American spirit and a political/media class that seems almost allergic to it. The fellas break it all down—calling out the nonsense and reminding everyone what happens when Americans stop buying the decline narrative. In this episode… Artemis 2 sparks a wave of genuine American pride

Is the system broken—or is it working exactly how the left wants it? When judges start issuing rulings on cases that don't even matter anymore, what are we actually looking at… law, or pure political theater? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, and John Ashbrook —jump straight into the chaos and ask the question nobody in media wants to touch: is this about justice, or just headlines? Because when courts are making “decisions” with zero real-world impact, activists are celebrating wins that don't exist, and journalists are spinning nonsense into narratives… you've got a problem. And the fellas aren't letting it slide. In this episode…  A federal court ruling that changes… absolutely nothing  Why NPR's “big win” is pure performance politics  The White House ballroom fight that reveals how broken DC really is PLUS, A SUPREME COURT ARGUMENT SO INSANE IT SOUNDS LIKE IT CAME FROM A COLLEGE DORM. Special Guest: Brad Lightcap (COO, OpenAI)  – Why AI is the next great American advantage :us:  – How everyday people can actually use AI to build businesses and scale ideas :robot_face:  – The real race with China—and what's at stake globally :earth_americas:  – Why this isn't about replacing jobs, but multiplying what individuals can do And yes… we go there. From activist judges to wild courtroom logic to the broader question of whether the entire system is drifting away from reality, this one hits everything. Question of the Day:  Is it time to start impeaching activist judges—or does that make things worse? Drop your take in the comments. If you're not subscribed, you're missing half the story. Hit subscribe, follow us everywhere, and jump into the comments—we read all of it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are Democrats losing control of their own coalition—or is this exactly where it was always headed? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and (briefly missing) John Ashbrook—talk about a political landscape that feels less like strategy and more like chaos. From fringe activists gaining mainstream influence to protests that look more like performance art than persuasion, the question becomes unavoidable: who's actually in charge anymore? The fellas break it all down with zero patience for nonsense and plenty of laughs, cutting through media spin, exposing contradictions, and calling out the uncomfortable reality shaping today's political battlefield. And yes—it gets weird. Really weird. In this episode… No Kings protests that feel more staged than organic The rise of Hasan Piker and the Democrats' growing identity crisis Media scrambling to clean up a monster they helped create Why Michigan—and voters in Dearborn—are suddenly center stage PLUS, A CHOCOLATE HEIST SO RIDICULOUS IT SOUNDS MADE UP. Special Guests: Scott Kupor (Director, Office of Personnel Management) – Fixing the federal workforce pipeline

Foreign policy chaos, media narratives spinning out of control, and politicians dodging the simplest questions… Special guests - Rep. Julia Letlow and Laurie Buckhout join us for two great interviews as we update our midterms race map! So what's actually true—and who's just playing politics? Don't forget to visit Ruthlesspodcast.com/map to check out all our interviews for midterm races! The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—jump straight into the mess. From Iran to Congress to campaign season, they break down the gap between reality and what's being pushed in the headlines. In this episode… Schumer pressed on Iran—and can't give a straight answer Democrats echoing foreign narratives Media vs reality on negotiations and military action Why this moment feels fundamentally different in U.S. politics PLUS, POLITICIANS ARE TAKING IRAN'S WORD OVER AMERICA—WHAT?! Then we bring in a major voice from the campaign trail as the stakes for 2026 heat up… Special Guest: Julia Letlow • Personal story of loss and public service

Government shutdown chaos. TSA lines out the door. Political blame flying everywhere. So what's really going on—and who's actually responsible? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—cut straight through it. No spin, no fluff. Just the reality behind the dysfunction, the strategy, and why you're the one stuck dealing with it. In this episode… DHS shutdown fallout and TSA chaos Chuck Schumer under pressure inside his own party ICE funding fight and political maneuvering Dem strategy exposed in immigration debate PLUS, POLITICIANS ARE PLAYING CHESS… WHILE YOU'RE STUCK IN A SIX-HOUR AIRPORT LINE We also sit down with Senator Pete Ricketts for a real look at what's happening behind closed doors—and what it means for the country moving forward. Special Guest: Senator Pete Ricketts • DHS shutdown negotiations and political gridlock

Is the problem bad messaging—or is it something deeper? When legacy media starts copying podcasters and still can't win back trust, what does that tell you? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—get into it as they break down a media landscape that's clearly shifting, a government fight that's hitting real people, and a growing gap between what's being said… and what's actually happening. From CNN experimenting with a more “authentic” look to ongoing fallout from DHS funding issues, the conversation keeps circling back to one thing: credibility. And if audiences don't trust what they're hearing anymore… where do they go? In this episode… CNN tests new formats but struggles with audience trust DHS funding fight impacts TSA workers and travelers Hack Madness returns and spotlights media figures Cuba debate highlights contrast between messaging and reality PLUS, A BAR BUILT TO “MONITOR THE SITUATION”… WITH NO WORKING SCREENS?! We also sit down with Senator Bill Cassidy for a grounded look at what's happening in Washington and how it's affecting everyday Americans. Special Guest: Senator Bill Cassidy • DHS funding and TSA disruptions ✈️ • Healthcare affordability and policy priorities

What happens when the Democrats stop pretending to be normal? What happens when the mask slips and the people running for office start sounding completely insane? This week, the fellas jump straight into the chaos and ask the obvious question: how is this the bench the left thinks is ready to run the country? Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook are in peak form as we break down the weirdest, creepiest, and most revealing Democrat candidate moments of the week — and then unleash the most glorious tradition of the year. PLUS, IT'S HACK MADNESS SEASON. In this episode…Democrat candidates getting exposedJames Talarico's bizarre vegan turn resurfacesA Texas congressional candidate's truly insane music videoA New York Democrat attacking the 13th AmendmentThat's right — the fellas officially launch Hack Madness, our annual tournament of the worst liberal hacks in media. The bracket is here. The seeds are set. The hacks are trembling. And the voting madness is about to begin. We also get some elite Trump stand-up, including his perfect St. Patrick's Day riff on Mike Johnson and a brutally funny read on Macron. Because even in the middle of all the insanity, nobody does comic timing like Trump. What Hack Madness brings this year…Media accountability by forceThe 65 worst liberal hacks in the gameBracket drama, seeding chaos, and online warfareYour chance to vote and crown the absolute worst Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Follow us on social for clips, bracket updates, and Hack Madness voting. And get in the comments, because this one is too ridiculous not to argue about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democrats are melting down, and the fellas are not letting them hide it. When party leadership is getting dragged around by the radical left, what's left of the “moderate Democrat” brand? And when Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries can't even steer their own caucus, how exactly are they planning to steer the country? Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook jump into the chaos surrounding Democrat leadership, the DHS shutdown disaster, and the growing reality that there is no such thing as a moderate Democrat anymore. In this episode… Democrat leadership in free fall Abigail Spanberger's “moderate” mask slips DHS shutdown politics and the national security fallout The SAVE Act fight and what it actually means PLUS, Why are Republicans fighting each other while Democrats hand them a winning issue? The fellas break down how Schumer and Jeffries are boxed in by their own base, why the immigration debate keeps exposing Democrat weakness, and how even purple-state Democrats govern like full-blown radicals the second they get power. It's not subtle anymore. It's not complicated. And voters are starting to notice. Special Guest: Rep. Buddy Carter joins the progrum to talk Georgia's massive Senate race and the road to taking out Jon Ossoff. What Buddy Carter breaks down… Georgia's fight to flip a key Senate seat Why Ossoff doesn't match Georgia values How Trump voters can be turned out in a midterm What separates him from the rest of the GOP field Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Follow Ruthless on social for clips, updates, and all the Hack Madness insanity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when Iran turns into a global punchline, and the fellas decide to have a little too much fun with all of it? Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook are back, and this one goes all in. We kick things off with the wildest story in the world right now: the alleged “Gayatollah” intel bombshell out of Iran. Is this real life? Is this the weirdest regime collapse subplot imaginable? And why does every new detail somehow get even crazier? In this episode… The “Gayatollah” story and the internet's total destruction of the new Iranian leader CNN's absurdly soft coverage of the regime Joy Reid comparing America to Iran The media lies stacking up since the conflict began PLUS, THE NINTH CIRCUIT JUST WROTE “SWINGING DICKS” INTO A JUDICIAL DISSENT. We also get into the latest Democrat excuses; a would-be Senate candidate trying to explain away a scandalous skull tattoo, the Oscars' insane eligibility rules, and one more brutal Harry Enten segment that shows just how deep the hole is for Democrats right now. Question of the Day: What's the most outlandish media lie you've seen since the Iran conflict started? Drop it in the comments. Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday , Thursday and Friday, follow Ruthless on social for clips and updates, and get in the comments because we read the best ones on the next show. 00:02:16 Iran's New Supreme Leader Rumor Sends the Show Off the Rails 00:04:14 Mossad's Wildest Assignment Ever 00:13:31 Why Mockery Might Be the Best Weapon Against Tehran 00:16:43 Hack Madness Tease and CNN's Media Circus 00:18:44 CNN Guest Says America Is the "Real Bad Guy" 00:23:15 Natasha Bertrand's Latest Spin Gets Torched 00:28:07 CNN and the UK Caught Cozying Up to Iran 00:32:32 Joy Reid Compares America to Iran 00:39:07 Bernie-Backed Candidate's Nazi Tattoo Disaster 00:45:50 Ninth Circuit Forces Women's Spa to Admit Men Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some episodes start with laughs. This one starts with a warning. When a convicted ISIS supporter is released from prison and then allegedly shows up at the center of another attack, it's not politics as usual. It's not abstract. It's not theoretical. Lives are at stake. So the question hanging over everything is simple: how many warnings does this country need before people start taking terrorism seriously again? The fellas — Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook — start this episode where it matters. The Old Dominion attack, the synagogue attack in Michigan, and the reality that DHS funding has been blocked while terror threats continue to rise. Then… because the news cycle refuses to stop being insane… things take a turn. Because while America is dealing with real threats, Iran's regime is busy looking like the world's most dysfunctional dictatorship.

Yet another massive taxpayer fraud, this time in California. Why does the media seem more focused on narratives than the billions being stolen from taxpayers? Guests: Chevron CEO Mike Wirth on that state of American energy + AFP's Brent Gardner discusses the on-going Democrat shutdown of DHS. The fellas — Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook jump straight into the chaos. From shocking Medicare hospice fraud (89 HOSPICE COMPANIES REGISTERED IN ONE BUILDING?!) to Democrats shutting down the Department of Homeland Security during heightened global tensions, the episode asks a simple question: what the hell is actually going on in Washington? The fellas break down the latest political insanity, media spin, and policy failures — while also bringing in real experts who actually know what they're talking about. In this episode… • Massive hospice fraud uncovered in California • Democrats blocking DHS funding during global tensions • Media narratives around terrorism and political violence • The economic and national security stakes of American energy Special Guest: Mike Wirth, CEO of Chevron • Global energy markets and the Iran conflict ⛽

What happens when a guy screams “Allahu Akbar,” throws an explosive at a crowd in New York, and the media still twists itself into knots trying to protect the narrative? Who's the real target here, and why does the press seem more offended by the protest than the violence? The fellas — Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook — jump straight into the insanity, breaking down the NYC attempted terror attack, the liberal media spin machine, and the misplaced empathy that keeps letting radicalism hide in plain sight. In this episode… The NYC bomb attack and the media's absurd framing Why the left keeps downplaying Islamic extremism Democrats blocking Homeland Security funding PLUS, THE MEDIA IS REALLY OUT HERE DEFENDING WHO NOW?! And we've got Special Guest Todd Blanche — the Deputy Attorney General — joining the fellas for a conversation on what the DOJ is actually doing while the press chases fairy tales. We get into: - The attempted terror attack in New York and how quickly law enforcement moved - Why homeland security actually has to mean something again - The fraud explosion bleeding taxpayers dry - What it's like going from Trump defense lawyer to the number two guy at DOJ Go to  https://zbiotics.com/RUTHLESS and use RUTHLESS at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Question of the Day: What's your best fake lib-journal headline for the New York City terror attack? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when a sitting U.S. Senator, who's also a former Navy SEAL, walks in and breaks down the Iran conflict with the kind of clarity you only get from someone who's lived the GWOT? Everybody's got a take on Iran. Almost nobody can explain it like this. The fellas — Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook — listen to Senator Tim Sheehy to lay it out: why this moment feels like the culmination of a fight that's been running for decades, why the “we're starting a war” framing doesn't match reality, and why the potential domestic ripple effects are concerning. In this episode… Sheehy's Iran breakdown: proxies, deterrence, “finish the job” logic. PLUS, DHS funding fight and what's at stake when the basics get politicized.Variety chaos: the kind of headline that makes you rewind to make sure you heard it right. The show swings to Ohio: the fellas sit down with Senator Jon Husted — a legit football guy with a national championship story — to talk the Ohio Senate race, how he pitches “grow the pie” economics, and why career and technical education is the part of the jobs debate that actually touches real families. Then we hit the rest of the mix: quick hits, clips, and the kind of cultural weirdness that only lands in this feed. Subscribe so you don't miss the next drop, follow us on social for the clipped moments, and hit the comments hard — we're stealing the funniest and the sharpest for the next round. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

War in Iran continues — and the fellas are not holding back. Does Iran have a Navy or just expensive toys? And why do Democrats suddenly sound like they don't know what they believe? Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook jump straight into the politics of war. The fellas break down what the Iran operation signals about American power, why the isolationist panic might be missing the point, and how the left keeps getting the messaging wrong. From Chuck Schumer confusion to House Democrat word salads, it's a masterclass in political incoherence. Then it's off to Texas — where John Cornyn shocks the field, Ken Paxton gears up for a runoff, and Jasmine Crockett flames out in spectacular fashion. What does it mean for 2026? Who's up? Who's cooked? Special Guest: NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman

Trump green-lights the strike on Iran—and Washington instantly splits into two camps: strength vs. “what did you just start?” So what's the real play here… and do you trust Trump's plan, or are we walking into the world's messiest endgame? The fellas—Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook—jump in fast, cutting through the spin and asking the questions everyone's thinking but nobody on cable will touch. In this episode… Trump's Iran strike and the nuclear clock Why China and Russia stay weirdly quiet DHS shutdown chaos vs. “big boy stuff” reality A palate-cleanser that somehow gets even more unhinged Special Guests: Senator John Kennedy + Brian Hook

When Michael Knowles joins the fellas, the gloves come off. The culture war isn't slowing down — it's exposing who's ready for the moment and who isn't. Why do Democrats keep misreading the country? Why do they double down on the exact messaging that turns voters away? And is the cultural fight now more decisive than any policy debate? Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook kick off with Michael Knowles and dig into what's really driving the political realignment. In this episode… • Why the culture war is remains a battlefield heading into 2026 • What Democrats keep getting wrong about voters • How elite institutions overplay their hand every time • The messaging mistakes Republicans still need to fix PLUS, A STATE OF THE UNION HARD PIVOT THAT DESERVES ITS OWN AWARD. Special Guest: Michael Knowles

Team USA delivers gold — and the Democrats deliver… whatever this is. The fellas break down Gavin Newsom's bizarre “I'm just like you” pitch, Gretchen Whitmer freezing on Ukraine, and Andy Beshear wrapping progressive policy in Sunday-morning language. Then it gets worse: Democrats quietly admit their 2024 problem in a locked-up autopsy they don't want you reading. Also in this episode: • The Texas Democrat primary FCC “equal time” twist no one in media wants to talk about • Trump's greatest stand-up hits (yes, we play them)• Canada coping after hockey heartbreak • A runaway hog with maximum confidence Then — Featured Interview: Stephen Moore

New York just dropped a $127 BILLION budget — and somehow you're still not getting what you paid for. Where's the money going? And how long before this model spreads to every blue state in America? The fellas — Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook — dive headfirst into the insanity. New York's Mamdani budget math doesn't add up. $50 billion for schools. Massive spending hikes. “Tax the rich” — except it never stops there. Is this the future Democrats want nationwide? IN THIS EPISODE… • The jaw-dropping NYC budget breakdown • Why raising taxes never fixes the problem • Eric Swalwell's resurfaced poetry • Trump's stand-up moments at the Board of Peace PLUS, A LIBERAL PARENTING GROUP CHAT TURNS INTO A WAR ZONE. Yes. A DC mom group melts down over Israel, Gaza, and “comrades.” You truly can't make this up. Then — Featured Interview: Todd Ricketts

Colbert says he was “silenced.” Reality: CBS lawyers reminded him the FCC equal-time rule exists — and he didn't want to give the other Democrat equal airtime. So instead of booking other candidates, he kicked the interview online and cried censorship. This wasn't Trump. It wasn't the FCC storming the studio. It was a late-night host trying to tilt a primary on broadcast TV — and getting boxed in by the rulebook. Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook break down the spin, the fundraising play, and the Democrat-media machine that treats late night like a campaign arm. In this episode:• The Equal Time rule Colbert pretends doesn't apply• Why CBS lawyers stepped in• How a “banned interview” turns into a multi-million dollar outrage haul• The real reason Jasmine Crockett didn't get the same invite PLUS — we actually believe in equal time. Featured Interview: Coach Dooley, candidate for U.S. Senate in Georgia

AOC hits the Munich Security Conference and faceplants on foreign policy—so why is the media acting like it was a breakout moment? Is this the Democrats' next presidential contender… or a kingmaker they're trying to polish in real time? The fellas break down the Taiwan dodge, the Venezuela spin, the “global south” rhetoric, and the press running cover like it's their full-time job. Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook connect the dots—and then pivot to the chaos back home. In this episode… AOC's Munich meltdown and the 2028 implications Rubio's contrast and the Western values fight Democrats shutting down DHS—who owns it? The media's “just a few stumbles” spin cycle PLUS, OBAMA SAYS ALIENS ARE REAL… AND NOBODY FOLLOWS UP?! Special Guest: Congressman Andy Barr

Minnesota Mayhem, Irish Heat, and Kentucky Senate Showdown | Ruthless Podcast Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook kick off another Fun Time Friday with the Ruthless Podcast crew tackling the week's most unbelievable stories. This episode features incredible congressional testimony that has to be heard to be believed, some well-deserved heat thrown at Minnesota's left-wing imports, and the Irish finally getting their turn in the hot seat.

The fellas discuss one of the biggest political stories flying under the radar: a State Department report identifying far-left activist groups as potential vectors of Chinese influence operation. That's not just politics — that's national security. Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook break down: • The State Department naming Code Pink and The People's Forum in a report to Congress • How foreign influence exploits U.S. nonprofit networks • Why Minnesota protests and ICE clashes don't look organic • The money trail behind radical “riot-on-demand” activism • Ways & Means Chairman Jason Smith launching investigations into foreign-backed nonprofits Then it's media malpractice time. Axios had to delete a headline after reporting that crime plunged in major cities “despite” Trump's crackdown. The fellas unpack what that framing says about the press — and why enforcing laws suddenly became controversial. Plus: • A liberal columnist admits broken windows policing might actually work • The SAVE Act panic — and why requiring ID to vote is suddenly “controversial” • Somalia requiring voter ID before Democrats can agree on it And it's primary season. Senator John Cornyn joins the program to discuss: • His reelection fight in Texas • Border security and ICE enforcement • Texas securing $11 billion in federal reimbursement • Performance politics vs actual legislating • The stakes of a contentious Republican primary Texas voters have a big decision ahead — and the outcome could impact Senate races nationwide. Question of the Day: What's the most obvious “revelation” a liberal has had during the Trump era? Drop your answer in the comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The fellas tackle the Olympics controversy head-on as US athletes seem more interested in trashing America than representing it. What happened to patriotism in elite sports and why is anti-American sentiment getting rewarded instead of condemned. Plus, Congressman Pete Stauber joins to share his unique perspective on the US Olympic hockey team, Minnesota's political transformation, and his family's Olympic legacy. The fells also discuss the train wreck Super Bowl halftime show, was it the worst halftime shows of all time? Ruthless delivers sharp political commentary with humor, insight, and unapologetic conservative values. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. Subscribe now and stay ruthless! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Ruthless Variety Program, hosts Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook dissect Kamala Harris's awkward campaign relaunch and what it means for a bankrupt Democratic Party. From her Gen Alpha "skibidi" vibes to failed youth appeals, we break it all down with zero holds barred. Then, tune in for an exclusive interview with RNC Chairman Joe Gruters on crushing fundraising records, election integrity lawsuits, midterm battle plans, and a potential game-changing "Trumpapalooza" convention to defy history and secure Republican majorities. Key topics: Kamala's rebrand flop, Democratic desperation, health insurance greed, media meltdowns, Supreme Court wins, grassroots strategies, and holding the House & Senate in 2026. Perfect for fans of sharp political satire and insider GOP insights. Subscribe now for weekly episodes packed with laughs and analysis! #RuthlessPodcast #KamalaHarris #RNCMidterms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We open by laying out what actually just happened with the SAVE Act and why it matters right now. The bill clears the House, heads toward the Senate, then gets stripped out during a government funding move. We walk through the numbers, the polling, and the quiet shift from open opposition to procedural delay. We also get into why voter ID keeps pulling strong public support while Democratic leadership keeps finding reasons to slow-walk it. From there, we get into the arguments we keep hearing and why they don't hold up under scrutiny. We talk through the bipartisan Carter–Baker commission findings, the Real ID framework, and the data showing how few registered voters lack identification. We also address the push to blame online narratives and personal attacks instead of dealing with the policy itself, including outside agitators trying to redirect frustration away from Senate leadership decisions. After that, we move fast. The lightning round hits a law firm offering to evict Billie Eilish from a Los Angeles mansion on behalf of a native tribe and the plan to reinstall a Christopher Columbus statue on White House grounds. King of the Hill returns with a fresh matchup, Florida enters the taco business with cold-stunned iguanas, and we sit down with Byron Donalds for a wide-ranging conversation on ICE, immigration enforcement, and the Florida governor's race. We close by asking what it will really take to get elected Democrats to stop dodging voter ID and deal with it head-on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The left has become insufferable theater kids

 The fellas are laying the whole Senate map on the table and getting real about what's actually at stake for the next two years. We get into why holding the Senate matters so much for a Trump administration, from confirmations to the very real threat of impeachment politics coming roaring back if Democrats get the chance. Then we start walking state by state through the early battlefield, where the money is going to flood in, where the margins are going to be brutal, and where Republicans can realistically grow the majority.  We start with North Carolina, because the fellas think it's shaping up to be one of the most expensive races in American history—potentially a $600 million monster. We talk through the matchup dynamics, why the Democrat name ID advantage is real early, and why the race changes once the spending begins. Then we jump to Georgia, where Ossoff's entire plan looks like it hinges on Republicans not showing up in the rural areas in a midterm—so the primary becomes its own test of who can actually build the kind of turnout operation it takes to win.️  From there, we hit the rest of the map: Susan Collins once again fighting upstream in Maine while Democrats try to sort out their own mess, Michigan opening up with Democrats in a fractured primary and Republicans feeling like they've got a real shot, and the Texas situation that could turn into a full-blown runoff slugfest with massive consequences. We also get into Alaska's quirks and why polling there is always a mess, Ohio's matchup potential, Iowa's open seat and why candidate quality matters, and the Louisiana calendar that's set up to produce a low-turnout sprint into a runoff.  Then we talk with US Attorney Jeanine Pirro about crime in D.C., what changes when prosecutors actually prosecute, how the federal component of her office plays into major cases, and why she's approaching public safety like it's the job—not a press strategy.Our Sponsors:➢Tell your lawmaker to put parents first. NetChoice is dedicated to making the Internet safe for free expression and free enterprise: http://netchoice.org/keepappstoressafe➢Unleash American energy to be bigger and better than ever before, because when America builds, America wins.  https://permittingreformnow.org/➢Melania from Amazon MGM Studios captures the personal moments that come with stepping into the role of the First Lady for a second time - in theaters exclusively on January 30th, 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices