Truth in Politics and Culture with Dr. Tony Beam

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture the US Supreme Court agrees with the Sixth Circuit in United States v. Skrmetti, that Tennessee can protect minors against mutilating transgender surgery, puberty blockers, and cross hormone treatments. President Trump is weighing the potential consequences of direct military intervention in Iran. I will talk about the pros and cons and give an analysis of intelligence on the state of Iran's nuclear program from IAEA, Israel and the US.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I will give a quick recap of the highlights of the Southern Baptist Convention Annual meeting, President Trump comes home early from the G7 Summit to address the Israeli/Iranian conflict, J.J. Spaun fulfills his responsibility as a dad and wins the U.S. Open, the terrible murders and wounding of Minnesota lawmakers takes center stage as a suspect is captured, and how should Christians engage in a toxic culture and political environment?

The Southern Baptist Convention will deal with several major issues at this year's annual meeting in Dallas. The future of a SBC agency (ERLC) will be debated along with financial transparency, how to deal with sexual abuse allegations, and the proper role of women in ministry. Ukraine pulls off an incredible attack against Russia raising the stakes in any peace negotiation, the US suffers three terrorist attacks against Jewish citizens, and the Big Beautiful Bill runs into budget hawk opposition in the Senate.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture the city of Columbia, South Carolina comes under fire for a four year old ordinance that bans licensed counselors from using "conversion therapy." The Trump Administration gets a boost for its economic policy from an April income and inflation report that shows income rising and inflation dropping.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, South Carolina's serious problem with domestic violence is revealed in a tragic murder suicide on I-85. Will our lawmakers and judicial system begin to address the leniency of the courts when dealing with domestic violence? Also, I talk about the latest on U.S. negotiations with Iran over their nuclear program and with Hamas over the war in Gaza.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture President Trump begins Memorial Day with an attack against his enemies on Truth Social, but delivers an inspiring speech at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Wreath Laying Ceremony. Putin defies President Trump's call to a ceasefire by launching the largest drone and missile attack of the war affecting 30 cities and killing 12 in Ukraine, The Justice Department cancels a record fine against a Christian University, and we learn more about the government's cover-up of COVID 19 vaccination side effects.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, the Big Beautiful Bill passes the House by one vote. What is in the bill? How will the Senate react? How will it affect the deficit and debt? Plus, the number of abortions are down in South Carolina but preliminary numbers from 2024 show between 2000-3000 abortions each year. We must do more to convince lawmakers to protect life.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, we talk about how leaders are responding to the news that President Biden has advanced prostate cancer. How should believers respond? How should we engage in political discussions when the political atmosphere is so toxic? What is there current realtionship between the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and Qatar? President Trump has a two hour phone call with President Putin? Are we closer or further away from a ceasefire?

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture the South Carolina Supreme Court unanimously upholds the Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act, after a 26 hour marathon, the House passes the framework for the budget bill, and President Trump negotiates investment deals with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and announces the lifting of U.S. sanctions against Syria,

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, the South Carolina Legislature ends it 2025 session. I will do a quick recap of the major bills passed. The Trump Administration negotiates the release of Edan Alexander and strikes a 90 day trade deal with China. President Trump's willingness to accept a 747 from Qatar sends the media and some politicians into a frenzy.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I talk about the end of the SC casino bill for 2025, the fight will be in early 2026. How do we get along in a toxic political environment? We have to figure it out by following biblical principles. SC Legislature passes a strong school choice bill and tort reform is on the bubble. A huge new study shows women are not being told the truth about the dangers of mifepristone and despite its popularity, cohabitation before marriage leads to a higher rate of divorce.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I will talk about the final week of the 2025 South Carolina Legislative Session. I will talk about President Trump's interview with Meet the Press and how the three C'S (Congress, the Courts, and Current Foreign Policy) will affect the next 100 days.

The South Carolina Legislature moves closer to passing a Casino gambling bill, President Trump's polling numbers take a hit, and the court system continues to try to stifle President Trump's agenda. Will SCOTUS ride to the rescue?

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture three bills that would legalize gambling are making their way through the SC Legislature. I will talk about the downside and dangers of legalized gambling. Sec/Def Hegseth is under fire but his Commander-in-Chief remains in his corner as military recruitment numbers skyrocket.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I will take about the death of Pope Francis, the process for selection a new Pope, and his mixed legacy as Pope Francis pushed the envelope on some progressive issues while remaining conservative on others. New research into ADHD and traditional treatments is questioning the way some respond to the diagnosis and popular treatment options. The Supreme Court steps in to temporarily suspend deportations under the Alien Enemies Act while the 5th Circuit considers arguments raised by the ACLU.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I am talking about a sports wagering bill that is getting a committee hearing in the South Carolina Legislature. What does Jesus washing his disciples feet have to say to us about how we as believers engage the culture? The miraculous rescue of a Tennessee pastor from South African terrorists, why is the legacy media underreporting the identity of the perpetrator of the bombing of the Governor's Mansion in Pennsylvania, and my interview with SC 3rd District Congresswoman Sheri Biggs.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, it's tax day so how does the current tax structure affect you and what will President Trump and Republicans budget plan do for the economy? There is another shift on tariffs with electronics now exempt. Are we getting a clearer picture of where the tariff policy is heading? Pushing back on the idea that Luigi Mangione is a hero, and according to Pew Research, belief in God is making a comeback.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, we will talk about how the President's decision to pause tariffs for 90 days on everyone but China will affect the US and world economy. Also, House conservatives are holding out for more spending cuts as the debate over President Trump's big beautiful bill moves from the Senate to the House. We also talk briefly about some of the things that are happening in the SC Legislature as we are down to 10 legislative days before the end of the session.

Today on Truth in Politics as Culture, my interview with John Stonestreet, President of the Colson Center for Christian Wroldview. John talks about the new sexual revolution, the pro-life argument against the current way IVF is accomplished, and the negative effects of gambling our our culture. We look at President Trump's tariff formula and the affect the tariffs are having on the stock market and the economy. We will also talk about two Supreme Court rulings in President Trump's favor,

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture we will take a close look at President Trump's tariffs plans. We will look at two expert opinions concerning how tariffs may affect the economy.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture we will talk the Signal texting mishap that continues to have an impact on the daily news, South Carolina has a bill that would open the way for casino gambling. and two special elections could have an impact on the Republican majority in the House.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, South Carolina is considering two bills that would legalize casino gambling and sports wagering. Proponants say the economic investment and tax advantages would be great but do they really exceed the downside gambling? President Trump announces a $20 investment and 9,500 jobs from Hyundai as they agree to build a steel plant in Louisiana and a car plant in Georgia. How did an unsecured app end up with an Atlantic reporter being included in a top secret conversation?

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I will take a close look at the Alien Enemies Act and how it will likely be decided by the courts. President Trump continues to pursue a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, but President Putin's demands are unreasonable. As two astronauts return to earth, it appears that politics may have played a role in keeping them stranded for nine months.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, the left loses its mind over President Trump's decision to deport over 230 violent gang members, President Trump's call with President Putin could will determine whether there will be a cease fire in the Russian/Ukraine war, more concrete evidence of the most devastating cover up in US history reveals how many countries knew COVID come from the Wuhan lab, and President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu go to war against Islamic terrorists.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, the Consumer Price Index shows inflation growing at a slower pace, 25% tariffs go into effect with Mexico, Canada, the European Union, and most of our other trading partners. Europe responds with retaliatory tariffs on $30 billion in agricultural products, soybeans, and beef. Canada raises tariffs on $20 billion worth of U.S. imports. Ukraine and the U.S. reach a deal on a ceasefire and are waiting to see if Russia will come to the table. And, South Carolina considers opening up the state to casino gambling.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture Secretary of State Marco Rubio cancels 5,200 USAID programs and moves over 1000 to the State Department, tariffs on tariffs off rattles the stock market and threatens President Trump's economic agenda. A Casino gaming bill is parked in the South Carolina House. Will South Carolina try to prosper by opening up the state to crime and the heartbreak of gambling addiction?

Members of the SC House Constitutional Laws Subcommittee listened to three hours of testimony on the Human Life Protection Act and then adjourned without taking a vote, President Trump and President Zelensky have a public blow up but are moving toward reconciling their differences and getting the Russia/Ukraine peace process back on track. The President hits a home run with his address to a joint session of Congress while democrats strike out with their resistance efforts.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, President Trump and President Zelensky move closer to the framework of a mineral rights deal, Speaker Johnson secures the votes for a budget framework, some legacy media outlets fail to report evidence of manufactured rage at red district town hall meetings, and Penguin Random House Publishing announces a book that explores the coverup of President Biden's mental decline.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I talk about the meeting between President Trump and French President Macron, I will look at the devastating numbers (people displaced, lives lost, property destroyed) coming out of Ukraine, and I will talk about how President Trump creates chaos in systems and relationships to bring about change.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture we will talk about why President Trump's approach to talks with Russia is right, plus according to a new poll, an overwhelming number of Americans like what Trump is doing,and in an interview with Sec. of State Marco Rubio, CBS claims free speech caused the holocaust and then doubles down by interviewing German prosecutors on 60 Minutes who bragged about how they enforce Germany's laws against free speech.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, Egypt and Jordan make a major move toward committing aid to the rebuilding of Gaza, Hamas responds to a Trump/Netanyahu ultimatum by agreeing to the resume releasing hostages as mediators push for Hamas to increase the number and timetable for hostage release, Putin agrees to meet with President Trump to talk about ending the war with Ukraine.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, President Trump drops a diplomatic bomb by suggesting the US will "own Gaza" turning it into the Riviera of the Middle East. Trump signs Executive Orders restoring maximum sanctions on Iran and withdrawing the U.S. from corrupt UN Agencies. Army recruitment sets a record in December, Pam Bondi is confirmed as AG, and Trump signs EO banning men from participating in women's sports,.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, It's wins all around for President Trump as Mexico and Canada agree to significantly beef up border security under the threat of a 25% tariff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes control and takes on the corruption of USAID, Panama gives free passage to American ships saving the U.S. $3 million per year and agrees to end Belt and Road Agreement with China.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, a horrific crash between a government helicopter and an American Airlines passenger jet sends both into the Potomac with multiple casualties reported. S.C. Governor McMaster delivers his eighth State of the State address, Health and Human Services nominee RFJ Jr. faces hostile democrats at his confirmation hearing, and the White House's suspension of government funding is rescinded.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I am joined by Dr. Steve Pettit, President of South Carolina's Palmetto Family Council, President Trump pushes back hard against Colombian President Gustavo Petro for turning away planes loaded with illegal immigrants with criminal records, VP Vance schools CBS's Margaret Brennan on the vetting of refugees, President Trump pardons 23 pro-lifers, and signs an Executive Order ending transgender ideology in the U.S. military.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio make bold moves toward closing the southern border and the arresting criminal illegal aliens, Senate Democrats begin obstruction tactics aimed at slowing down President Trump's cabinet nominees, and my interviews with Chad Connelly of Faith Wins and South Carolina Family Caucus Leader Rep. John McCravy.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture my interview with SC Congressman Ralph Norman on his initial opposition to Rep. Johnson as Speaker, the path forward and need for urgency in passing President Trump's agenda , and Rep. Norman's reflection on the Inauguration. I will talk about President Trump's executive orders and his decision to issued a sweeping pardon and commutations of all J6 protestors. And, a reminder that ultimately, God is in control.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, President Trump's nominees successfully push back against attacks from Senate Democrats, the hearings reveal the how far our culture has moved from the moral moorings necessary to hold us together, and South Carolina Citizens for Life President Lisa Van Riper joins me to talk about upcoming pro-life events and to discuss the need for Christians to take a share the Gospel and take a strong moral stand in our culture.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture the South Carolina Legislature begins the 2025 session. I will talk about some of the priorities being advanced by the SC Family Caucus and which Republicans may be considering a run for governor. Pete Hegseth faces the Senate Armed Services Committee, California wildfires continue to bring death and devastation to the state and time may be running out for Tick Tock.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, historic California wildfires claim 5 lives and over 2000 structures with no end in sight. President Trump holds a press conference suggesting he won't rule out using military force to take Greenland and the Panama Canal, Mark Zuckerberg either sees the light, feels the heat, or decides to go with the flow in moving away from censoring Facebook, and it turns out President Biden isn't really a nice, decent, and kind gentleman .

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, 14 people die and dozens more are injured when a man who was radicalized online drives his truck on a sidewalk in New Orleans. Vivek Ramaswamy ignites a fiery discussion about American culture that is still burning today, and President Biden tries to handcuff President Trump on domestic energy production by banning offshore drilling on 625 million acres.

House Speaker Mike Johnson scrapped a pork laden CR after strong criticism from conservative Republicans, President-elect Trump, Elon Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy. Dr. Richard Gibbons from First Presbyterian Church of Greenville talks about the significance of the incarnation, and South Carolina Citizens for Life President Lisa Van Riper discusses South Carolina and federal Supreme Court cases that will protect right to life laws in South Carolina.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, President-elect Trump answers questions on a wide range of topics in his first news conference that goes on for over 70 minutes. More drones appear over New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Virgina. Government officials say they are a variety of legal, authorized flights and there is nothing thing worry about. Most Americans don't agree...and another tragic Christans school shooting, this time by a 15 year old girl in Madison, Wis. leaves two dead and five wounded .

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, how can a civilized society survive when people who make up that society call good evil and evil good? Daniel Penny is vilified for stepping up to protect others while alleged murderer Luigi Mangione is celebrated. Plus, pop icon Gwen Stefani declares she is a Christian and is immediately attacked on social media.     

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, Marine veteran Daniel Penny is found not guilty in the death of Jordan Neely. The Supreme Court hears oral arguments for and against a Tennessee law that bans transgender medical procedures for minors, Syrian rebels take only 11 days to topple the Assad regime as Russia and Iran are too weakened to intervene, and a suspect is taken into custody for the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, I will talk bout the long denied but much expected Presidential pardon of Hunter Biden. I talk about the significance of the timeline, review the potential crimes Hunter could have faced, and the reaction of those most closely associated with the pardon.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, President Trump will enter office with the wind at his back as a significant majority of Americans support his transition efforts and his cabinet picks. Pam Bondi is a good choice to replace Matt Gatez at the DOJ, Tom Homan talks candidly about the challenge of deporting millions of illegal immigrants, and Trump's pick to head the Labor Department should be rejected by the Senate.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, Laken Riley's murderer gets life in prison with no possibility of parole and the soft on crime DA who refused to seek the death penalty loses big at the ballot box, S.C, Rep. Nancy Mace proposes a bill to protect women's privacy on federal property, the pros and cons of Matt Gaetz nomination to lead the DOJ, and Ben Shapiro dissects David Brooks critique of meritocracy.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture President Biden goes against the advice of the Pentagon by giving permission to Ukraine to use U.S. made long range missiles, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court tells democrats to stop illegally counting illegal ballots, President-Elect Trump vows to use the military to help the deportation of illegal immigrants, and HHS nominee Kennedy should answer pro-life questions at his confirmation hearing.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, Trump continues his streak of appointing leaders for his administration who will help him dismantle the deep state and the Washington bureaucracy, leftwing wealthy elitist try to convince people they work for a living "just like you," and the Harris Campaign spends over $500 million on pro-abortion ads. The result? Trump makes gains with female voters.

Today on Truth in Politics and Culture, a look at Trump's early picks for his administration, Democrats, like an active torpedo in the water, look for someone to blow up (metaphorically) for their election losses, and the South Carolina Republican Party rides a red wave to a 34-12 advantage in the SC Senate and an 89-35 advantage in the House.