The John Fugelsang Podcast

Julie and Simon join John for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest headlines.They dive into the controversy around Charlie Kirk's recent events, celebrate the first Indigenous New York Fashion Week ever, and discuss President Trump's push to review several Smithsonian museums — starting with the National Museum of the American Indian. Plus, listener calls and thoughts throughout the hour.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the GOP saying to not politicize the tragedy of Charlie Kirk's death yet they are doing so and using the event to justify attacking people. He remembers how the same thing happened during the tragedy of 9/11. Then, he speaks with Renee Hopkins who is CEO of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. Renee has experienced the scourge of gun violence first-hand including the tragic loss of her brother Arnie in a school shooting in 1996. Then, John chats with Jody Hamilton and Sean “Smith” Pierce. Jody is the executive producer of the Stephanie Miller Show. She's has garnered several Telly and Aurora Awards for her efforts and one Emmy nomination so far. Sean has owned the airwaves for over 30 years, producing for some of the biggest names like Randi Rhodes, Stephanie Miller, and Bill Press. These days, they're co-hosting and co-producing "The Politics Bar". See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about Turning Point USA founder and CEO Charlie Kirk who was shot and killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. News of the assassination spread quickly across social media and details, and suspects, are still unknown at this time. Kirk, at only 31, had become a major influence in MAGA politics and his Turning Point USA organization helped codify far-right conservative ethos among an entire generation of young Americans. At the exact same moment, in Colorado, another school shooting left three students critically wounded. The 46th and 47th school shootings this year. John discusses this and other news with podcast star Bob Cesca; Desimber Rose and Dillon Naber Cruz AKA The God Squad; and legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses a collection of Trump-related stories. First, Trump says he had no knowledge of an Israeli attack on Hamas headquarters in Doha, Qatar where at least 5 lower level Hamas fighters were killed. Second, Trump and Kristi Noem's Hyundai ICE raid has cause major economic backlash. Third, Bill Gates, Tim Cook, and Mark Zuckerberg kissing up to Trump at his big Remodeled Rose Garden party. And fourth, Trump telling West Point to cancel Tom Hanks' military award event. Then, he interviews Ryan Clarkson, founder and managing partner of Clarkson Law Firm who is overseeing the firm's innovative AI litigation practice. Experts at Clarkson Law Firm have been representing numerous patients and their families in legal fights against insurers like UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, and Humana, exposing how, due to AI's denial of claims, elderly patients have been unable to access and afford the very same care their doctors have ordered, leading to some even passing away due to being denied medical care. Then, John jokes with comedian Keith Price AKA Comedy Daddy and they take calls from listeners on RFK Jr, the Supreme Court, and much more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the Supreme Court ruling ICE is allowed to resume its roving immigration patrols of California, like stop and frisk meets “show me your papers”. He also discusses the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Birthday book with Trump's dirty pubescent drawings. Then, he interviews Jonathan Strum, who is a former Georgetown University Professor of Israeli Law and Middle East Affairs. They talk about his recent Hill column where he outlines why neither Netanyahu nor Hamas has incentives to end the war — and how those self-interests continue to fuel escalation. Next, Professor Corey Brettschneider returns to chat about the disastrous Supreme Court ruling and Justice John Roberts allowing Trump to fire an FTC Commissioner. Then lastly, John welcomes back comedian Rhonda Hansome to joke with listeners about pop culture and Trump's latest mishigas. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John runs down Trump's biggest Bootlickers of the week. First - Kristi Noem's stupid ICE Hyundai raid in Georgia. Second, the combined micro-penis energy of Pete Hegseth and Trump... naming the Department of Defense to the Department of War. Third is Secretary of State Marco Rubio who continues to spin his airstrike on a boat off the Venezuelan coast - saying it was running drugs for the Tren El Aragua gang. Then fourth, Governor Ron DeSantis who announced Florida will be the first state to end all vaccine mandates. And John wraps things up with TV's Frank Conniff who joins the crew to talk about the evils and exploits of Trump and crew.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Simon and Julie join John for a powerful discussion honoring the late Graham Greene, reflecting on his legacy as an actor, mentor, and champion for Native voices. They also discuss the government's $18 million payout to victims of Dr. Stanley Patrick Weber (Non-Indigenous), a former Indian Health Service doctor who sexually abused Native boys for years. Callers share their heartfelt reactions, stories, and reflections.Julie's latest Substack is a moving tribute to Graham Greene. Here is the link https://open.substack.com/pub/juliefrancella/p/graham-greene-was-everyones-uncle?r=1u83jb&utm_medium=iosSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses the sun-baked and hormonally rattled visage of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. who graced the Senate Finance Committee for several hours of back and forth over the Health and Human Services Secretary's new direction for American public health. During his testimony, Kennedy told the committee he had to fire CDC Dir. Susan Monarez because she lied to Americans – unfortunately it wasn't the lies he wanted her to say. Then, he speaks with journalist Brian Karem on the Epstein files, RFK's brain functions, and Trump's waning popularity. Then lastly, John welcomes back the 2 Taras to talk politics. Tara Devlin is a comedian and the host of the Tarabuster, where she looks at news, politics and history through an unapologetically liberal lens. Tara Dublin is a comedian and author of “The Sound of Settling: A Rock & Roll Love Story”. Together Tara Devlin and Tara Dublin are the co-hosts of THE Tara Show podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, John plays clips of the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's sexual abuse as they gathered with members of Congress to speak to reporters and urge the White House and Congress to release the full dossier of information on Epstein's crimes. Then, he jokes with podcast star Bob Cesca on Trump's tariff dilemma, the Epstein victims speaking out, and Florida's Gov. and Surgeon General announcing they're removing ALL vaccine requirements for everyone in the state. Next, John speaks with the tattooed theologian Dillon Naber Cruz on the evil doings of white Christian Nationalists. And rounding it out - John welcomes back legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson and they answer legal questions from listeners on current news and Trump related issues.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses a judge ruling that Trump's use of the military in L.A. violated the Posse Comitatus Act. Although, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer paused his ruling from taking effect until Sept. 12, giving the administration time to appeal. He also talks about Rudy Guiliani getting the Medal of Freedom and Republican Rep. Josh Brecheen of Oklahoma who was taken to task and blindsided by constituents that were questioning his blind loyalty to Trump. Then, Professor Corey Brettschneider is back to discuss Judge Breyer ruling that Trump's military deployment is unconstitutional under the Posse Comitatus Act. Plus: tariffs struck down, asylum fights, and the chaos inside the CDC. Next, John interviews Dr. Rob Davidson who is the Executive Director of the Committee to Protect Health Care, a West Michigan ER Physician for over 25 years, and the host of the Paging America podcast. Dr. Davidson has been leading the effort with physicians across the country to combat misinformation and fight for health care access, and with the launch of Paging America, Dr. Davidson is expanding his advocacy efforts to also give himself and doctors a space to directly engage other health care professionals and the American public around the very real things happening everyday to undermine science and health care. And then lastly, John jokes with Comedy Daddy - Keith Price on Trump's tyranny and mayhem.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John runs down his top picks for the biggest dick of the past week. First, a US Appeals Court ruled the majority of Donald Trump's tariffs are in fact illegal and have no standing, but it held off on enforcing any tariff repeals under the assumption the Supreme Court will soon be asked for a ruling. Second, Secretary of Defense Pete Kegsbreath ordered that all D.C. National Guard troops be armed. Third, D.C. Attorney Jeanine Pirro decided that people carrying weapons in D.C. won't face felony gun charges anymore. Fourth, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Steven Miller saying the crackdown in D.C. was to protect black residents. and fifth, Snoop Dogg saying he was uncomfortable with a cartoon lesbian couple in the new Disney movie "Lightyear". Then, John welcomes back democratic strategist Max Burns to talk about his new piece for The Hill - "Trump's Agitprop Banners Reveal His Authoritarian Ambition". Then winding it up, he chats with TV's Frank Conniff about current topics and all things Trumpian related.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John interviews author Bridget Lyons, Matt Gertz from Media Matters, and the legendary icon - Willie Nelson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John interviews Dr. Anu Kumar, author Paul Slansky, journalist Asne Seierstad, and the President of the Laborers' International Union of North America - Brent Booker.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue focuses on hundreds of employees at the CDC staging a walk-out in protest of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The protest comes the morning after Kennedy fired the director of the CDC, reportedly over Covid vaccine policy changes Kennedy demanded. The firing in turn sparked four other high profile resignations from the massively important public health monitor. Then, he talks with democratic strategist Ameshia Cross about current news and Trump's evil doings. Then lastly, John welcomes back Simon Moya-Smith and Julie Francella for their indigenous segment We're Still Here. They discuss the mass shooting at the Catholic school in Minneapolis and the Choctaw vampire hunters from the movie "Sinners".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the latest mass shooting. Two children were killed, 8 and 10 years old, and 17 others were hurt when a gunman opened fire on a Minneapolis catholic school. Before the rampage began, the shooter posted a manifesto to YouTube espousing solidarity and admiration for previous massacres and far-right ideologues. Then, he speaks with podcast star Bob Cesca about Trump's socialistic move purchasing 10% of Intel and Trump's executive order making flag burning illegal. And finally, Desimber Rose and Dillon Naber Cruz return for another installment of The God Squad and they talk about the Minneapolis catholic school shooting.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue discusses the unity of the right and left over the hatred of the new Cracker Barrel logo. He also talks about Trump issuing an executive order making it a crime to burn the flag and J.D. Vance gaslighting for Putin on Meet the Press. Next, Professor Corey Brettschneider is back and they discuss the laws about flag burning. They also examine California's redistricting plan, which—despite controversy—may be one of the few defenses of democracy left in today's political landscape. Then, John speaks with author David Daley about his new book, Unrigged: How Americans Are Battling Back to Save Democracy, which chronicles the victories and defeats in state efforts to reform elections and uphold voting rights. Then rounding it out - Comedy Daddy Keith Price joins John and the crew to talk with listeners about trending topics and the latest malice from Trump and company.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John has a few topics to cover - Trump saying he is firing FED Chair Lisa Cook; his new executive order proclaiming flag burning illegal; and the recapture of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. He also discusses the plethora of signs that Trump is sliding downward in his health. Then, he interviews Dr. Nolan Higdon. He is the author of The Anatomy of Fake News: A Critical News Literacy Education. His most recent publications include - Let's Agree to Disagree: A Critical Thinking Guide to Communication, Conflict Management, and Critical Media Literacy with Mickey Huff and The Podcaster's Dilemma: Decolonizing Podcasters in the Era of Surveillance Capitalism. Higdon is a founding member of the Critical Media Literacy Conference of the Americas. Next, he jokes with comedian Rhonda Hansome and they talk to listeners about Trump's latest mishigas. And then closing it up - John welcomes back Kevin McDonald of Kids in the Hall. They promote his new hilarious, autobiographical rock opera titled Kevin McDonald Superstar. It recounts some of the most outrageous and shameful stories from his life, set to music. (Performing tonight and tomorrow in Philly at PhilaMOCA).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today - John's monologue is a mixed bag: First he talks about Ghislaine Maxwell - flipping the script on Elon and saying Trump never did anything wrong. Second, he discusses the FBI raiding John Bolton's home, and third, he talks about Trump's plan to take over policing other cities. Then, political strategist Max Burns chats with him on John Bolton, Trump's attempt to distract everyone from the Epstein files, and Trump & Putin's big meeting. And finally, John welcomes back comedian Frank Conniff AKA TV's Frank and they joke about the past of John Bolton, the death of James Dobson, and the sarcastic wit of Gavin Newsom.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John speaks with Julie Francella - a mental health professional with over 30 years experience in handling complex trauma with Indigenous youth and families. She's a member of the Ojibway of Batchewana First Nation Reserve, and teaches Indigenous Studies at Durham College, focusing on the impacts of colonization on First Nations people; and Simon Moya-Smith - an Oglala Lakota and Chicano journalist. He's a contributing writer at NBC News and TheNation.com. He's the author of the forthcoming book, ‘Your Spirit Animal is a Jackass,' and he's an Adjunct Professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Colorado Denver. This week they discuss Trump expanding 'woke' criticism from the Smithsonian to other museums including the Museum of the American Indian and Tennessee Universities that are no longer allowed to host Native American themed events. They dive into the breaking news of Alligator Alcatraz being shut down by the Miccosukee Nation; unpack the history of where the idea of three meals a day really came from; and took some powerful calls from listeners who brought their own insights to the conversation.Simon Moya-Smith - instagram.com/simonsaidtakeapic threads.com/@simonsaidtakeapicJulie's Substack “The Fire I Keep” https://substack.com/@juliefrancella?r=1u83jb&utm_medium=iosCheck out Julie's artwork on her website - juliefrancella.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This time John discusses Gavin Newsome's plans for California's upcoming new big beautiful redistricting maps. He also talks about the death of James Dobson - who founded the conservative Christian ministry Focus on the Family and was a politically influential campaigner against abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Then, he interviews VA Speaker Don Scott on Virginia MOMnibus: Landmark Maternal Health Legislation; the current status of Virginia's elections; and the Virginia GOP being in disarray. And then finally, John jokes with comedians Seena Ghaznavi and Travis Irvine on the Trump/Putin summit and how the US, Israel, and other countries are engaging with Iran. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses Texas Republicans finally passing their gerrymandered congressional map which was requested by Trump. He also talks about 750 HHS employees and former employees sending a letter to RFK Jr. asking him to stop spreading misinformation about the CDC and vaccines after the recent shooting at the CDC saying that he is putting people in danger. Then, he jokes with Journalist Brian Karem on the Epstein files, the meeting with Trump & Putin, and Trump's cognitive decline. Next, John welcomes the God Squad with Desimber Rose and Dillon Cruz on Christian nationalism, the push for ten commandments in classrooms, and Trump saying he wants to go to heaven. And finally, he chats with legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson on Texas Democrats tearing ‘permission slips' imposed by Republican house speaker, Obama supporting Gavin Newsom, and federal agents firing at a vehicle during immigration stops.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue dives into Trump attacking the Smithsonian saying there's too much focus on ‘how bad slavery was'. He also discusses Trump's assault on schooling which has created an opening for the right-wing pseudo-academic organization PragerU to try and fill the void with its brand of conservative content. So far 10 states have approved PragerU propaganda education in elementary schools. Then, he speaks with Professor Corey Brettschneider on proposing an executive order to restrict mail in ballots and a lawsuit challenging a particular confederate monument. Next, John interviews Voting Rights Advocate Jasmine Burney-Clark on mail-in ballots, voting machines, and the push forward on gerrymandered TX maps. Then finally, he chats with comedian Keith Price AKA Comedy Daddy on the Supreme Court decision to rescind the protections for over 500K refugees.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue is about Trump's big peace meeting at the White House with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders. Then, he speaks with columnist Wajahat Ali on the Ukraine peace meeting and California Governor Gavin Newsom fighting back against Texas redistricting. And then finally, John welcomes back comedian Rhonda Hansome to joke with listeners about current news and trending topics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses Trump's meeting with Putin in Alaska. Then, he chats with democratic strategist Max Burns on Trump's DC takeover and the Texas gerrymandering war which has exploded due to Gavin Newsome's clever handywork.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks with Simon Moya-Smith & Julie Francella on Native Americans suing San Antonio to protect sacred birds in a river and other issues impacting the Indigenous community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue this time is on California Governor Gavin Newsom fighting back against Texas' redistricting votes and former clerk for Rowan County, Kentucky - Kim Davis wanting the Supreme Court to join her crusade against same-sex marriage. Then, he interviews Dr. Mara Einstein on how realizing that cults and MLM‘s work in the same way - helps people understand how Trump works, and what's going on in our country right now. And finally, John jokes with comedians Tara Devlin and Tara Dublin from “The Tara Show” podcast on Trump's lies, Gavin Newsom taking a stand, and the big summit with Trump and Putin in Alaska.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Talks about Trump exerting control over the Kennedy Center Honors and vetoing prospective ‘wokester' honorees. He also talks about Trump's big D.C. makeover and takeover with National guard troops guarding absolutely nothing, and the White House conducting a comprehensive internal review of exhibits and materials at the Smithsonian Institution in an effort to comply with Trump's directive about what should and shouldn't be displayed. Then, he jokes with podcast star Bob Cesca about the DC takeover, the nominee to take over BLS, and Donald targeting the Smithsonian. Next, the God Squad is back - this time featuring Keith Giles and Dillion Cruz. They discuss the Viral CNN Segment that highlights disturbing Christian movements. And finally, John chats with legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson and they answer listener questions about Trump and his legal woes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the National Guard taking the streets in Washington D.C. after Trump's crime crackdown ramps up. He also discusses the White House playing up the pomp and spectacle of Trump meeting with Putin in Alaska while simultaneously playing down the chance for any real progress toward peace in the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will NOT be at the meeting but DID tell reporters in Kyiv in no uncertain terms his country will not cede land to Russia just so they have a staging area for their next invasion. Then, he speaks with Professor Corey Brettschneider about Trump's recent authoritarian tactics which are shifting from a “soft coup” to a “hard coup,” with hallmarks of a violent takeover: using the military to control local police, deploying the FBI for political ends, and undermining judicial independence. Next, he once again interviews Siri Dahl who's an award-winning adult film performer as well as a writer, social media personality, and sex workers rights activist. They talk about this year's CORN TELETHON which promises a cheeky stream hosted by adult film performer, content creator and activist Siri Dahl and a rotating gang of comedians, musicians, writers, and mischief-makers. Think Jerry Lewis telethon meets USA's Up All Night. And finally, Comedian Keith Price returns to laugh with John and listeners about the latest news.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John's monologue focuses on the White House declared a “Crime Emergency” in the District of Columbia and ordered the mobilization of National Guard soldiers to take over the policing of the nation's capital. He also talks about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth who says he's proud to be part of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, an archconservative network of Christian congregations. Hegseth recently made headlines when he shared a CNN video on social media about CREC, showing its pastors arguing women should not have the right to vote. He then interviews Deborah Mucarsel-Powell who is an American politician and former academic administrator who served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 26th congressional district from 2019 to 2021. Mucarsel-Powell was the first Ecuadorian-American and first South American-born immigrant to serve as a member of congress. In 2024 she went up against Rick Scott to represent Florida in the Senate. They discuss the D.C. Takeovers, AI videos, and all the other myriad ways the Trump administration is trying to shift attention and concern away from the Epstein Files. And winding it up, John chats with comedian Rhonda Hansome and listeners about trending topics and current politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about Trump's horrific economic skills including his pathetic DOGE cost saving cuts, the gutting of migrant service and farm workers, and his knee jerk tariff maneuvers. Then, he interviews Councilwoman Phylicia Porter who is a public health advocate focused on building healthy communities in Baltimore City and South Baltimore. As a longtime and active resident of Baltimore City's 10th District, Phylicia approaches community advocacy with an independent voice of sincere leadership, honesty, and integrity. Phylicia prides herself on believing there is nothing more rewarding than empowering individuals and communities to use their political voices for change. Next, John welcomes back democratic political strategist Max Burns and they chat about his new opinion piece in The Hill called "It's Pritzker's Party: Hell Yes, He's Messing with Texas, and He's Not Sorry". And then finally, John jokes with TV's Frank Conniff and they take calls from listeners about the latest news and pop culture.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on We're Still Here, Simon and Julie join John to cover big wins and ongoing battles across Indian Country. A female federal judge (matriarchy for the win!) has temporarily halted construction of the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center in the Florida Everglades. The Pennsylvania State Museum is returning thousands of stolen Native artifacts to Tribal Nations. And in California, the Presbytery of San Gabriel has made history by returning ancestral land to the Gabrieleno Tongva Tribal Council. They also highlight how Native Nations are pushing back against anti-trans legislation, affirming that sovereignty includes the right to protect LGBTQ2S+ and Two-Spirit citizens with dignity, safety, and culturally grounded care. Plus: Jonathan Nez, and they take listener calls!Simon Moya-Smith - instagram.com/simonsaidtakeapic threads.com/@simonsaidtakeapicSubstack - The Fire I Keep https://open.substack.com/pub/juliefrancellaBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/juliefrancella.comX: https://x.com/juliefrancella?s=21See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John has a mixed bag of news today. First, he discusses the latest with Trump's tariffs which seem to be growing every minute. Then, he talks about the escalation in the Texas gerrymandering stand off - agents from the FBI have been directed to assist Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in the roundup and arrest of democratic politicians on the run from his gerrymander bill. After that, he discusses Trump calling for a "new" census that excludes people in the U.S. without legal status. The 14th Amendment requires the "whole number of persons in each state" to be included in a key set of census numbers used to determine how presidents and members of Congress are elected. And then he mentions that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Arlington National Cemetery will be restoring a Confederate monument created by Moses Ezekiel which has been criticized for misrepresenting the history of slavery. Ezekiel was a Confederate soldier who spent much of his artistic career promoting the “Lost Cause” myth that the Civil War was just and heroic, and not a treasonous war fought to uphold slavery. John then interviews Dr. Kristin Lyerly, a practicing OBGYN based in Wisconsin, is a board member of the Committee to Protect Health Care – a national health care advocacy organization made up of thousands of doctors across the country fighting for access to care for their patients and holding politicians accountable, including President Trump. Find her at Bluesky: @DrKristin4wi.bsky.social. And closing it up he chats to listeners about the Epstein files and Trump's tariffs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act and the recent reversal of voting freedoms with the Republican Save Act officially the "Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act," - (a bill that would require individuals to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections) and the Texas gerrymandering debacle. Plus, he also talks about RFK Jr. announced that 22 projects, totaling $500 million, to develop vaccines using mRNA technology (including ones being developed to fight covid 19and the flu) will be halted. Then, he kids around with the amazing Bob Cesca about Trump firing Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner Erika McEntarfer, the sweet deals for Ghislaine Maxwell, and the big gerrymandering war. Next, John welcomes back Desimber Rose and Dillon Naber Cruz for their God Squad segment and they discuss the GOP's outrage over Cynthia Erivo playing Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar and they chat with listeners about the bible. Then finally, Dr. Tracy Pearson returns to talk listeners off the edge with sound and hopeful legal advice.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today - John discusses Trump ordering the US National Parks Service to reinstall a statue of Confederate military officer Albert Pike in Washington, DC. Protestors tore it down in the wake of the George Floyd protests against police brutality and racial injustice on Juneteenth in 2020. He also talks about the latest in the Texas gerrymandering debacle with Governor Greg Abbott saying democrats have until Friday to return to the statehouse or face expulsion. More than 51 Democratic members of the Texas House left the state, aiming to deny the chamber a quorum and prevent passage of the proposed gerrymandered Republican map before a scheduled floor vote. Then, he chats with Professor Corey Brettschneider about the supreme court paving the way for Texas's gerrymandering mess and the overuse of the shadow docket in the Supreme Court to hide reasoning behind the court's decisions. These decisions are typically made with limited briefing, no oral argument, and often without full explanation, leading to concerns about transparency and the potential impact on legal precedent. Then, John welcomes back Rev. Barry Lynn who is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and served as the executive director for Americans United for the Separation of Church and State until his retirement in 2017. They talk about Texas gerrymandering, Ghislaine Maxwell, and churches now being able to endorse candidates. Then finally, he plays clips from the recent Nebraska town hall where Republican congressman Mike Flood was booed by constituents. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This time John discusses Texas democratic lawmakers pulling the rip cord and leaving their state in a planned action to break quorum at the state House. Without quorum, Republican plans to reshuffle voting districts will have to be put on hold. In response, Gov. Greg Abbott sought civil arrest warrants for the members, who have all fled to the welcoming arms of party allies in blue states. Then, he interviews Sheria Smith who is President of AFGE Local 252 - the union representing thousands of Dept of Ed workers - and former attorney with ED's Office of Civil Rights. They talk about Trump's dismantling of the Department of Education. And then winding it up, comedian Rhonda Hansome is back to joke about trending topics and Trump.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses how Republicans are coming up with creative ways to swing the next election in their favor. First, he talks about how they are greasing the palms of large corporate donors with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin moving to repeal the 2009 Endangerment Finding which states that greenhouse gases are a threat to public health. Second, he talks about ICE being the largest (and most funded) secret police in the nation with the goal of locking up as many brown democratic voters as they can. And third, John discusses Democratic lawmakers in Texas who are leaving the state in a last-ditch bid to prevent Republicans from further gerrymandering their congressional map at the request of Trump. If successful, the GOP's redistricting effort could potentially give the party an additional five seats in the 2026 midterms. Then, he interviews the General President of the Laborers' International Union of North America -Brent Booker on the impacts of Trump's tariffs and Big Bad Budget Bill on job creation and job loss. Then finally, John speaks with author Bridget A. Lyons about her new book "Entwined: Dispatches from the Intersection of Species".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Simon and Julie join John for another segment of We're Still Here. They dig into a disturbing new report revealing that Trump-era officials pushed to remove books on slavery, Native history, and even George Washington from national park gift shops, all in the name of “patriotism.”Then they turn to Arkansas, where a whites-only settlement is quietly building a “fortress for the white race” under the banner of “returning to the land.” Yes, it's 2025. No, you didn't misread that.But it's not all grim news: the House has approved $8.4 billion for the Indian Health Service, with advance appropriations that could offer much-needed stability for Native healthcare—if it survives the political storm ahead.They unpack all of it with humor, fire, and a healthy dose of listener calls.Simon Moya-Smith - instagram.com/simonsaidtakeapic threads.com/@simonsaidtakeapicJulie's Substack “The Fire I Keep” https://substack.com/@juliefrancella?r=1u83jb&utm_medium=iosCheck out Julie's artwork on her website - juliefrancella.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses the dire situation in Gaza under Israel's assault as Palestinian children are perishing each day from malnutrition. The World Health Organization warned that the "health and well-being of an entire future generation" was at stake. Then, he speaks with the Managing Director of Strategic Resource Group - Burt Flickinger about Trump's recent policy of reciprocal tariffs which are now going into effect and Sydney Sweeney's controversial American Eagle 'Good Jeans' ad. And then John chats with Ahmed Baba who is the founder of the bestselling Substack newsletter AhmedBaba.News and a columnist at The Independent. They discuss his new piece entitled "Trump's New Epstein Comments Contradict the Timeline & Raise Troubling Questions".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses Trump announcing workplace rules that stand to make it easier for federal employees to pressure their colleagues to convert to their religion of choice. He also talks about the Senate voting to confirm Emil Bove as a judge on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, granting a lifetime appointment to Trump's former personal lawyer. Then, he jokes with actor, director, and podcast star Bob Cesca about the Jeffrey Epstein debacle and of course current movies and Star Trek shows. Next, John speaks with The God Squad featuring former pastor Desimber Rose and theologian Dillan Naber Cruz. They talk about Trump's new Christian work place rules and other disruptions to the separation of church and state. Then finally, he chats with legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson and they take calls from the Evil Army of the Night on Emil Bove, Jeffrey Epstein, and Ghislaine Maxwell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Max Burns guest hosts. He has a mixed bag of topics...1. NYPD says a note found on the gunman who killed 4 in a midtown Manhattan skyscraper blamed his actions on traumatic brain injuries caused by football and the inaction of the NFL, whose headquarters he sought. 2. The head of the National Security Agency (NSA) and the NSA's deputy director have been fired. The firings were described as abrupt and occurred after reports of pressure from right-wing activist Laura Loomer who had accused the officials of disloyalty. 3. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is rumored to be quitting his current post to run for office in Tennessee. 4. Immigration Czar Tom Homan gave out some very back of the napkin math on the people his goon squads are rounding up and disappearing from the country. 5. Trump told reporters he had a falling out with Jeffrey Epstein over underage spa workers at Mar a Lago being recruited into his sexual predator enterprise. Then, Max speaks with Elaine Godfrey who is a staff writer at The Atlantic. She covers national politics. Her latest reporting documents the kind of leadership, issue-advocacy and grit the modern Democratic party needs to survive the Second Age of Donald Trump – as typified by Texan Jasmine Crockett. Next, he interviews Zoë Towns who is the Executive Director at Forward Dot U-S, where she launched the criminal justice reform portfolio in 2017 - defining its advocacy, policy, research, and philanthropic agenda. In her years since, Zoë has overseen administrative, ballot, electoral, and legislative criminal justice reform campaigns in states across the country and at the federal level. And finally, Max chats with the National Affairs correspondent for The Nation - John Nichols about current news and all things in Trumpland. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democratic Strategist Max Burns Guest hosts. He gives details on the latest Jeffrey Epstein/ Ghislaine Maxwell news. Then, he speaks with Joe Donnelly who served as U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See from 2022 until the start of the second Trump administration. Previously, he represented Indiana in the U.S. Senate from 2013 to 2019. He previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives (2007–13). Next, he interviews Brian J. Karem who is an award-winning investigative reporter, writer, producer, veteran, bestselling true crime author, and former correspondent for America's Most Wanted. Catch his podcast Just Ask The Question. His most recent book is Free the Press: The Death of American Journalism and How to Revive It. And finally, Max chats with Jared Yates Sexton who is the author of American Rule, The Man They Wanted Me to Be, and The People Are Going to Rise Like the Waters Upon Your Shore. His political writing has appeared in publications including The New York Times, The New Republic, Politico, and Salon.com. Sexton is also the host of The Muckrake podcast, the author of three collections of fiction.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This time John discusses Trump's new rule that Government contractors have to promise that they don't use paper straws in their business and promise not to penalize the use of plastic ones. He also talks about the gay makeup artist - Andry José Hernández Romero - who was deported to a prison in El Salvador after seeking asylum in the US - then being sent back to Venezuela in a prisoner swap deal. Next, he interviews Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Karen Elliott House who was also a former managing editor at The Wall Street Journal. They talk about her new book "The Man Who Would Be King: Mohammed bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia". And finally, John chats with content creator, historian, and best selling author Sam Kelly about his new book "Human History on Drugs: An Utterly Scandalous but Entirely Truthful Look at History Under the Influence".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Simon and Julie joined John to unpack Trump's latest dog whistles—first, his public push for Washington and Cleveland's sports teams to revert to their former names, dismissing the harm those names caused Indigenous communities. Then, we dove into the controversy over the Trump-era Department of Homeland Security tweeting what appears to be a white supremacist slogan. We took a lot of powerful calls from listeners who shared their thoughts, questions, and lived experiences. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses the premiere episode of South Park. After signing a $1.5 billion deal with Paramount, Trey Parker and Matt Stone roasted the president—and made fun of their own network's settlement with Trump. He also talks about Deputy Atty General Todd Blanche spending most of the day interviewing Ghislaine Maxwell, whom House Republicans suggest should receive a shortened sentence for helping clear their idol's good name. He also discusses Trump arguing with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell during his tour of the Fed's $2.5 billion renovation. Then, he interviews democratic strategist and State Chair for the Texas Democratic Party - Kendall Scudder. Kendall has dedicated himself to helping elect Democratic candidates across the state and improved financial transparency and strategic planning within the Texas Democratic Party in his elected role as Vice Chair for Finance. And then finally, John speaks with Dave Zirin who writes about the politics of sports for The Nation magazine. You can catch his stellar reporting and fantastic interviews any time at Edge of Sports on YouTube, as well as through his website EdgeofSports.com. They discuss the ugly history and background of Hulk Hogan who passed away July 24th at the age of 71. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses Tulsi Gabbard who used the White House Press Briefing to uncork her Obama/Russia conspiracy – accusing the former President of trying to preventing Donald Trump from winning the 2016 election. He also talks about President Macron of France filing a defamation suit against right-wing grifter supreme Candace Owens, who has repeatedly claimed Mrs. Macron was transgender. And speaking of France, he also discusses U.S. funded contraceptives worth nearly $10 million being sent to France from Belgium to be incinerated, after Washington rejected offers from the United Nations and family planning organizations to buy or ship the supplies to poor nations. Then, podcast star Bob Cesca is back to joke about Trump, Epstein, and of course Star Trek. And winding it up, The God Squad = Desimber Rose and Dillon Cruz return to talk about the intersection of religion and politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John remembers the late great Ozzy Osbourne who passed away at the age of 76. Then, he discusses the House ending its session early for a month-long break. This decision comes after Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly lost control of the House Rules Committee and amidst Republican clashes over a potential vote on the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. And he talks about Trump selling a new version of an old lie, calling Russia meddling charges leveled by Tulsi Gabbard clear evidence of treason by Pres. Obama and then-VP Biden. Next, he speaks with Professor Corey Brettschneider and they break down Trump's latest disinformation attacks against Obama, the erosion of free speech rights for noncitizens critical of Israel, and the DOJ's troubling loss in the Harvard funding case. Then, he interviews DR. Phillip Polakoff on the crisis level of inequality in the accessibility and quality of healthcare in the U.S. And lastly, John welcomes back comedian Keith Price to joke with listeners about trending topics and politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about the laundry list of distractions Trump is desperately throwing at the wall to get people to stop talking about his long, close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Then, he interviews Carolyn Feinstein, who is married to ICEBlock developer Joshua Aaron. She had served as a forensic accountant at the DOJ's Office in Austin, TX. Last week, Ms. Feinstein was abruptly fired and became the latest target of the MAGA base, desperate to dox and destroy any opposition to Donald Trump's agenda. And rounding it out, John chats with Rhonda Hansome and TV's frank Conniff about Jeffrey Epstein, Donald Trump, and the new Superman movie.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses Trump suing The Wall Street Journal and Rupert Murdoch over the release of his Birthday letter to Jeffrey Epstein. PLUS, Attorney General Pam Bondi saying she's asked a federal judge to unseal the Jeffrey Epstein grand jury testimony, following a panicked request from Pres. Trump. For his part, Trump ignored reporters' questions about Epstein during a signing ceremony for the crypto-handjob GENIUS Act. Then, John welcomes back TV's Frank Conniff to joke with listeners about Epstein's Island, Pam Bondi's Cover-up quota, and a panicked president in a gold diaper. Then finally John Interviews legendary actor Nick Offerman and they talk about his latest cinema offerings: "Smurf Movie" and "Sovereign". See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Simon and Julie went live with John to explore powerful stories from Indian Country. They covered the Miccosukee Tribe's lawsuit over “Alligator Alcatraz”; reflected on 80 years since the U.S. detonated the first nuclear bomb on stolen Mescalero Apache land; and discussed how Medicaid cuts threaten Native healthcare. They also highlighted the water crisis on reservations, where half of households still lack reliable clean water. Listeners called in to share their stories—one even asked about burning sage (smudging) at an Indian Health Services clinic.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John discusses the revelation that Trump wrote Jeffrey Epstein a birthday letter that had naked female doodles and a cryptic greeting. He also talks about the White House saying Trump is suffering from venous insufficiency, which they call a minor condition. The chronic swelling is caused by poor circulation, poor diet, poor cardiac health and a sedentary lifestyle. Then, he speaks with Dr. Mara Einstein. She is an internationally recognized expert and speaker on deceptive marketing. They talk about her new book "Hoodwinked: How Marketers Use the Same Tactics As Cults". And then, John interviews New Jersey Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman about the transparency of the Jeffrey Epstein files and the Republican's horrible budget bill. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John talks about Trump attacked supporters and pundits in his base who refuse to give up an obsession with the truth about Jeffrey Epstein, calling them “weaklings” for believing a “bullshit story” he spent years grafting onto the conservative psyche. He also discusses Trump telling reporters he is NOT planning on firing Jerome Powell, despite reports he'd had a firing letter drafted and shown to republicans in congress. Then, shifting away from firing, Trump leaned into scrutiny of the Fed Chair for cost overruns at a construction project – hinting it could force him to resign. John then welcomes back podcast star Bob Cesca to joke about the Epstein List, the brutality of ICE, and the new Superman movie. Next, Desimber Rose and Dylan Naber Cruz AKA The God Squad return to talk about people who cover up the sexual abuse of children. And lastly, John chats with legal analyst Dr. Tracy Pearson and they answer questions from the Evil Army of the Night about the laughable Republican infighting and senility induced rantings of Trump.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.