Podcasts about center square

Day Break | The State of America: Policy, Politics, and Global Power --- 00:00 - Monologue 19:13 – Bob Livingston, former U.S. Representative and author of The Rainbow Chaser: The Man Who Gambled for Success and Broke Even. Livingston discusses his new memoir, reflecting on his career in business and politics, lessons learned from success and failure, and his perspective on the evolution of American political life. 28:13 – Michael Lucchese, founder of Pipe Creek Consulting, associate editor of Law & Liberty, and contributing editor to Providence. Lucchese discusses his new book, On America: How to Understand the Legacy of 1776, examining the enduring influence of the American founding and how the principles of 1776 continue to shape the nation's identity and institutions. 38:23 - Monologue 47:25 – Mike Britton, Co-Founder of Artillery Tea. Britton discusses the origins of Artillery Tea, what sets the company apart from other tea brands, and the contents of its Patriot Starter Kit. The conversation highlights the company's mission, products, and special offers for new customers. 57:41 – Rep. Tim Walberg, U.S. Representative for Michigan's 5th Congressional District and member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Education and Workforce Committee. Walberg discusses the No Aid for Ghost Students Act, legislation aimed at preventing taxpayer funds from being distributed based on inaccurate or fraudulent student enrollment figures. 1:06:36 – Colonel William Dunn (Ret.), President of Strategic Resilience Group and author of Gunfighters Rule!. Dunn discusses escalating tensions with Iran following reports of retaliatory U.S. military strikes after an American Apache helicopter was reportedly shot down. He analyzes the military, strategic, and geopolitical implications of the conflict. 1:16:33 - Monologue 1:25:55 – Steve Dulan, professor and attorney. Dulan reviews recent actions by the Trump administration that supporters view as strengthening Second Amendment protections, discussing their impact on lawful firearm ownership and constitutional rights. 1:36:07 – Elyse Apel, reporter for The Center Square covering Michigan and Minnesota. Apel discusses a recent Michigan court decision overturning a conviction connected to the Whitmer kidnapping case, examining the legal reasoning behind the ruling and its broader implications for the case and related prosecutions. --- Check out our brand new podcast, 'Forgotten America'... Episode 18 is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/nS_iwvO5SgY

Newly obtained unredacted communications between Sen. Jamie Pedersen and the Washington Attorney General's Office are continuing to fuel scrutiny over how the state's new millionaire's tax was crafted and defended legally. Center Square reporters TJ Martinell and Carleen Johnson attended a state Supreme Court swearing-in ceremony this week hoping to question Chief Justice Debra Stephens and Gov. Bob Ferguson regarding: The income tax Supreme Court conflicts Attorney General coordination Efforts to block a referendum vote Martinell attempted to ask Stephens about communications showing a former Supreme Court clerk speculating that justices might prefer avoiding a direct constitutional ruling on whether income is property. The broader legal battle centers on: Washington's long-standing precedent treating income as property Whether a progressive income tax violates the state constitution Potential conflicts involving recently appointed justices Questions are also being raised over whether Justices Theo Angelas and Colleen Melody should recuse themselves due to prior professional ties involving: Gov. Ferguson Sen. Pedersen The Attorney General's Office  DCYF FACES CONTINUED SCRUTINY OVER DAYCARE PAYMENTS DCYF Secretary Tana Senn gave an update Thursday to the department's oversight board following a recent audit that identified approximately $37 million in questionable childcare subsidy payments. Senn argued: The audit findings represented extrapolations rather than confirmed fraud Many childcare providers felt unfairly targeted Public scrutiny created stress and anxiety throughout the childcare community According to Senn: “A lot felt like they were under attack probably for no very good reason.” Center Square reporters noted they have spent months investigating providers receiving: Tens of thousands of dollars monthly Large taxpayer subsidies Payments tied to locations where little or no evidence of childcare operations was visible Oversight Board members, including Sen. Nikki Torres, reportedly expressed frustration that the audit discussion received limited time during the meeting.  LONGVIEW SUPERINTENDENT ARRESTED Longview School District Superintendent Karen Cloninger was arrested Thursday morning following an investigation into allegations surrounding the district's boys basketball program. According to Longview Police: She faces charges including witness tampering Additional allegations involve obstruction and failure to report More charges may be forthcoming involving other district officials Police allege district officials may have: Obstructed the investigation Discouraged staff from cooperating Failed to fully report allegations The case has generated growing outrage from parents and community members in Longview.  WHY THIS MATTERS This impacts: Washington tax policy Supreme Court legitimacy concerns Childcare oversight Public education accountability Government transparency Several of these issues are expected to remain major political stories across Washington heading deeper into 2026. WHAT'S NEXT Constitutional challenges to the income tax continue Questions over judicial recusals may intensify Additional DCYF oversight hearings expected Longview criminal investigation remains active   #WashingtonState #Politics #IncomeTax #DCYF #Longview #SupremeCourt #BreakingNews #Education #Taxes #USNews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington's political and economic battles over the newly enacted millionaire's income tax are intensifying as Let's Go Washington reports overwhelming public interest in its repeal initiative campaign. During Tuesday's episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Center Square reporter Carleen Johnson examined: The rapidly expanding repeal effort Business concerns surrounding the income tax Ongoing constitutional questions Washington's growing drought debate New climate change projections ⚖️ TOP STORY: INCOME TAX REPEAL CAMPAIGN EXPANDS One week after launching the initiative drive to repeal Washington's newly enacted income tax, Let's Go Washington says public response has exceeded expectations. The organization is attempting to qualify Initiative to the People 2066-45 for the ballot by gathering: ➡️ At least 309,000 valid voter signatures ➡️ Within a 51-day signature window Organizers reportedly hope to collect closer to: ➡️ 400,000 signatures to account for invalid or duplicate signatures. According to Let's Go Washington: “They've never had a response like this.”

Washington's political and economic battles over the newly enacted millionaire's income tax continue intensifying as lawmakers, business groups, and advocacy organizations clash over the future of taxation, constitutional law, and economic competitiveness in the state. During Monday's episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Center Square reporter Carleen Johnson spoke directly with State Senator Jamie Peterson — the sponsor of Washington's controversial income tax legislation — while also examining growing concerns surrounding business relocation and economic uncertainty. ⚖️ TOP STORY: SENATOR JAMIE PETERSON RESPONDS TO TAX QUESTIONS Johnson questioned Peterson about: Legal challenges to the millionaire's tax Internal Attorney General's Office communications The ongoing referendum and initiative fight Concerns surrounding wealthy residents and businesses leaving the state Peterson defended the legislation and argued: ➡️ Consultation between lawmakers and the Attorney General's Office is normal ➡️ Washington's constitution already excludes tax measures from referendum authority ➡️ The issue is ultimately constitutional and legal in nature Peterson also maintained that the Washington Supreme Court has already clarified the referendum question surrounding tax legislation.

Washington state officials have released a complete list of daycare providers who received nearly $58 million in childcare facility grants after questions emerged over previously unnamed recipients. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we examine the newly released childcare grant data, the growing debate over parental rights and school district compliance with House Bill 1296, and renewed concerns from business leaders surrounding Washington's income tax and economic climate.

(The Center Square) – Gas prices have surged in Illinois, and an American Automobile Association spokesperson says several factors are to blame. AAA listed the average price for regular unleaded at $4.53 a gallon on Wednesday, up from $3.41 a year ago and $3.98 one month ago. Molly Hart, spokesperson for AAA, said the conflict with Iran is playing a role. “What a lot of people don't understand is about 60% of what we pay at the pump has to do with the price of a barrel of crude oil. So when that price keeps going up, we see the pain at the pump,” Hart told The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AIRLINK GUEST - TJ MARTINELL. Center Square reporter, former justice raise more questions as WA's ‘millionaire’s tax’ heads to court. "everybody gets taxed" // GUEST-Amy Gibson. Trump speeds review of psychedelics after Joe Rogan texted him about ibogaine. ‘Sounds great. Do you want FDA approval? Let’s do it’ // More with GUEST-Amy Gibson on ibogaine 

TJ Martinell from the Center Square on new documents uncovered surrounding the motive behind the Millionaires' Tax // Chris Sullivan with a Chokepoint: A new Chick-Fil-A location in Mill Creek could cause some serious traffic disruptions // David Fahrenthold on the war in Iran, and the Trump administration's plans to repay billions in tariffs // Charlie Commentary on spending in WA schools, and dropping test scores // Ian Sherr on the new Apple CEO // Gee Scott on what the Seahawks should do with their 4 picks in the NFL Draft

(The Center Square) -- State lawmakers expressed public, bipartisan concern again Wednesday over an Illinois commission's efforts to increase access to state contract money for businesses that are owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities. The lawmakers' concerns are largely based on the reporting of The Center Square in recent months, which has found that the commissioners have fewer responsibilities than their counterparts elsewhere in government and that their decisions have led to a dramatic decline in businesses that are certified for contract preference. Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday April 7, 2026 Tim Clouser hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today's show, Gov. Bob Ferguson's new state income tax is headed to the state Supreme Court for a hearing over the ability to challenge the law with a ballot initiative, Puget Sound Energy is proposing another rate hike in Washington, and The Center Square's TJ Martinell shares an investigation into the state's public works account funds being redirected to cover budget deficits. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square reveals Washington state's diversion of $375 million from a vital infrastructure loan fund to cover the operating budget. Local and statewide groups warn repeated withdrawals risk long-term damage to city and county projects. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/fiscal-fallout-375-million-bond-debt-indirectly-funding-operating-budget/ #Washington #infrastructure #budget #bonds #publicworks #PWAA #statepolitics #government #publicfunding #taxes

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has launched a fair-housing investigation into the Washington State Housing Finance Commission's Covenant Homeownership Program. This program, created to address historical housing discrimination, offers 0% interest loans for down payments and closing costs to racial minorities. The investigation, triggered by a letter obtained by The Center Square, questions whether the program violates the Fair Housing Act by discriminating based on race and ancestry. HUD's assistant secretary, Craig Trainor, likened the program to 'Animal Farm,' suggesting some Washingtonians are being treated as 'more equal than others.' The program distributed $60.2 million in loans in its first year, funded by a real estate document recording fee. The expansion of eligibility raises further questions about fairness and equal opportunity in housing.

Rebuilding the statehouse beat: Inside The Center Square's growing newswire model The decline of traditional newsroom staffing has thinned one of journalism's most important beats: statehouse reporting. As fewer reporters cover legislative chambers and the policy decisions shaping taxpayers' lives, new models have emerged to fill the gap. Among the fastest-growing is The Center Square, a nonprofit newswire focused on government accountability reporting that publisher Chris Krug says was built to address what he sees as a structural hole in the American news ecosystem. Access more at this episode's landing page, at: https://www.editorandpublisher.com/stories/rebuilding-the-statehouse-beat-inside-the-center-squares-growing-newswire-model,260877  

An Interview with Chris Krug, Publisher, The Center Square One of the keys to a healthy American democracy is an informed citizenry. Yet the decline of local news has left millions of Americans without reliable coverage of the institutions, policies, and elected officials that shape their daily lives. Statehouse reporting in particular has withered — leaving citizens in the dark about the decisions being made in their state capitals. Our guest today has dedicated his career to changing that. He leads one of the most ambitious efforts in the country to fill the local news void with high-quality, government accountability journalism that puts taxpayers first. Our guest on this episode of Voices of Freedom is Chris Krug, Publisher of The Center Square, a nonprofit news organization launched in 2019 to provide statehouse and statewide coverage across the United States. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in the media industry — from sports journalist to major market editor and publisher — Chris has built The Center Square into one of the country's most expansive sources of state and local government reporting. Topics Discussed on this Episode: Chris's path from sports journalism to leading one of the country's most ambitious local news organizations What it means for communities and democracy when local news disappears How The Center Square's taxpayer-first sensibility shapes its coverage Earning reader trust and what keeping that trust means to The Center Square How The Center Square navigates the pressures of AI, social media, and the struggles of legacy news organizations What gives Chris optimism about the future of local journalism

Seattle is facing a tough decision: delay or defer vital transportation projects to fund anti-ICE signs. This move raises questions about the city's priorities and financial management. According to an article in The Center Square, the city might have to put off much-needed infrastructure improvements. This decision is sparking controversy, especially among residents who rely on these transportation projects. The potential delays could impact commute times, accessibility, and overall economic growth in the region. Critics argue that the funds could be better allocated to address more pressing issues like homelessness or public safety. The situation highlights the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the role of local governments in addressing federal issues. This situation is a symptom of a larger problem of mismanagement and misplaced priorities in Seattle.

(The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran. Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O'Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week. In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran. “While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.  Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/illinois Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square, host Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong about his continued investigation into Illinois diversity contracting commission, including a commissioner not disclosing the entirety of their other employment outside of being a commissioner.  Read the story here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_63956a13-5235-4a23-92e7-06203fbad8d9.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There is a Hall of Fame for just about everything in this country. But where is the Hall of Fame celebrating the inventors, the creators, the entrepreneurs that have made America so great? Well, there isn't one yet. However, the great social entrepreneur John Tillman is working on a $350 million project aimed at building a hall of fame for entrepreneurship and American innovation, which he is calling the Hall of Giants. John joins Giving Ventures to share his vision and provide a peek at the special soft launch it has coming up on the mall later this summer. John is the chairman and former CEO of the Illinois Policy Institute. He's also been founding or reviving other organizations from Center Square, Bearing Tree, Iron Light. And before all that, he was a business entrepreneur himself.

The Rod and Greg Show Daily Rundown – Friday, February 20, 20264:20 pm: Esther Wickham, Education Reporter for The Center Square, joins Rod and Greg for a conversation about her piece on how spending on public education in America is rising despite falling enrollment numbers.4:38 pm: Larry Sand, former (retired) President of the California Teachers Empowerment Network, joins the show to discuss his piece for American Greatness about how teachers are helping instigate anti-ICE hysteria in American schools.5:05 pm: Michael O'Neill, Vice President of Legal Affairs at the Landmark Legal Foundation, rejoins the show to get his reaction to the Supreme Court decision today that invalidates the tariffs President Trump placed on companies that import goods to America. The court rejected the administration's move to implement tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.6:05 pm: Joy Pullman, Managing Editor for The Federalist, joins the show for a conversation about her piece on how red states are struggling to implement pro-American history curriculum in schools because of continued pushback from the left.6:20 pm: Nicholas Giordano, Higher Education Fellow at Campus Reform and a Political Science Professor at Suffolk Community College, joins Rod and Greg to discuss his piece for The Federalist about how many of the students protesting ICE can't answer basic questions from the U.S. Citizenship Exam.6:38 pm: We'll listen back to this week's interviews with New York Post opinion contributor Karol Markowicz on how the recent rash of killers who are transgender proves we have a mental health crisis, and (at 6:50 pm) with R Street Institute Policy Director Matt Germer on why he says we should slow down the implementation of the SAVE Act.

(The Center Square) - Washington Democratic leadership Wednesday told The Center Square there is disagreement between Republicans and Democrats about the best way to respond to the tragic number of children dying or suffering critical incidents in homes with drug-addicted parents. Republicans have been trying for years to amend the Keeping Families Together Act and the “imminent harm” threshold for removing a child from a home where there is drug abuse, and/or neglect. As reported by The Center Square, supporters of a fix say the definition of imminent harm needs to be changes, as it is currently leading to children being sent back to homes where lethal drugs are present and, in many cases, led to their death. There were more critical incidents in 2025 than ever before. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the immigration enforcement debate as it relates to IllinoisSupport this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest deadlines around work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and shares data on how much tax money goes to SNAP, and how much Illinois' error rate has increased in the last 10 years.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – Illinois diversity commissioners are paid tens of thousands more than other state boards but aren't required to work full time, allowing them to run a digital media company, freelance as a human resources contractor, teach and consult for universities, direct a play and run a business hosting Dungeons and Dragons games at bars, an investigation by The Center Square found. Lawmakers of both parties expressed concern about what the TCS three-month investigation found – with one state representative calling for an audit of the agency.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_bd52a909-1a01-4e40-b445-3c6545ce06be.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) - As the Washington legislative session continues discussions around bills to boost the housing supply, building industry advocates are warning that continued raids on an account meant to fund local infrastructure projects can undermine any new legislation. “Not only is this concerning for anyone looking for a place to call home, but it also means less revenue for state and local governments,” the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties wrote in a statement to The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_d58acfc2-3dbc-4dd1-8d83-3bdff1a54fd6.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square staff discuss federal scrutiny of Minnesota childcare fraud and increasing unrest in Minnesota. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – As more is revealed about the potential daycare fraud within the Somali community in Washington state and the Department of Children, Youth & Families scrambles to respond, one large daycare provider is sharing his frustrations with The Center Square. On Monday, The Center Square visited several Somali-run home daycares in Federal Way, but found only one home with a few children inside. Others did not answer knocks on the front door, grew confrontational – calling the police, or conceded they don't currently have children enrolled. "Anyone who's in the industry is, like, flabbergasted,” said daycare owner David McMullan, who also chairs the Pierce County Republicans. “How are they getting that money and we're not?” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) - The Washington State Auditor's Office in recent years has concluded that the state Department of Children, Youth, and Families lacked adequate oversight over its child care subsidy program, according to audits obtained by The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_e6be9287-dd97-45ae-97ed-317969bdd988.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – As more is revealed about the potential daycare fraud within the Somali community in Washington state and the Department of Children, Youth & Families scrambles to respond, one large daycare provider is sharing his frustrations with The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_12522a63-4ed1-493a-911e-67e0673045a1.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Greg Bishop talks with Jared Strong with The Center Square's investigative unit about his ongoing investigation of the taxpayer cost for the state's diversity contracting goals.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square staff discusses what to expect from Congress in 2026 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's Tuesday, December 30th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Trump bombed Nigerian ISIS camps It was a first in United States history. President Donald Trump authorized US military action against ISIS-linked camps in northwestern Nigeria for the purposes of defending Christians who have been the brunt of a genocide that's taken place over the last decade. At least two camps, run by the Muslim terrorists, were hit by 18 precision missiles last Thursday on Christmas Day, reports The Guardian. Nicaragua banned Bibles Nicaragua has banned Bibles at the border.  Tourists may not carry Bibles in any form into the country, according to new regulations. Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that the list of forbidden items now includes Bibles, newspapers, magazines, books of any kind, drones and cameras. The Nicaraguan government has also shut down 1,300 religious organizations since April 2018. Repression has picked up since the 2021 election when Daniel Ortega was elected for a fourth consecutive term in office.  Leading opposition candidates were jailed before the sham election.   Nicaragua has the fourth worst economy in South America, just above Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti. Scottish pro-life grandmother arrested outside abortion mill A 75-year-old grandmother is the first to be arrested in Scotland for coming within 656 feet of an abortion mill. This comes after an anti-protesting law was passed last year.   The Times reported that Rose Docherty was holding a sign that simply stated: “Coercion is a crime. Here to talk, only if you want.” In John 3:20, Jesus said, “For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.” Puerto Rico recognizes pre-born baby as a person Puerto Rico will now recognize the human fetus as a natural person from conception. That's the substance of a new law which is intended to provide the unborn child with dignity, rights of inheritance, and legal recognition. Sadly, the country still allows abortion for reasons connected to the alleged “life and health of the mother.” Iran's skyrocketing inflation and war with U.S., Israel, & Europe External and internal pressures are increasing on nations worldwide. Iran has edged up into 53 percent year-on-year inflation. That's the fifth worst in the world.  The economy is exasperated by water and energy shortages. And the nation is dealing with rising numbers of protests and strikes. In a published interview late last week, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran was in a "full-scale" war with the U.S., Israel and Europe. Russia's unrelenting attacks on Ukraine And Russia continues its war on Ukraine. Russia Today reported an additional 32 settlements in the Donbas area came under Russia control in December. United States sold $11 billion of arms to Taiwan Following the U.S. sale of $11 billion of arms to Taiwan, the Chinese armed forces have initiated an aggressive military exercise in the South China Sea.  It's the largest scale blockade and attack simulation ever conducted to date. The communist nation is conducting live-fire exercises extremely close to the shores of Taiwan.  The official People's Liberation Army news site announced that the drills include “task forces of bombers, amphibious assault ships, and anti-ship missiles.” But keep in mind Isaiah 40:15. The prophet wrote, “The nations are as a drop in a bucket and are counted as the small dust on the scales; [The Lord]  lifts up the isles as a very little thing. And Lebanon is not sufficient to burn nor its beasts sufficient for a burnt offering. All nations before Him are as nothing, and they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless.” U.S. blocks Venezuela's oil exports Things are heating up in Venezuelan waters — as the U.S. military continues its blockade of the nation's oil exports.  Tankertruckers.com reports  about $1 billion of oil, or about 8-10 tankers, have been held up in the Caribbean by the current blockade.   The Venezuelan government relies on oil exports for about two-thirds of its financing. Venezuela is pushing 250 percent inflation, year-over-year. That qualifies as the absolutely worst conditions in the world. Private Texas schools applying for $10,000 government grants Now, in stateside news, private schools in Texas are signing up for state funding. At least 600 private schools have applied for grants under a new law, for the 2026-27 school year, according to Center Square.  The pilot program is offering $10,000 grants to 100,000 students in the Lone Star state. U.S. dollar less desirable Will the dollar retain supremacy in the world market? The U.S. dollar is less and less desirable by national banks around the world.  The percent of the world's foreign exchange reserve, held in U.S. assets, has dropped off from 72 percent to 57 percent since 1999.  Oklahoma college teacher fired for penalizing Biblical worldview The teacher at the University of Oklahoma who had given a Christian student a zero score on her paper for advocating a biblical view of gender has been fired.  The university issued a statement charging the teacher assistant, by the name of William Curth, with arbitrary grading. The student, Samantha Fulnecky, had appealed to the Bible in her essay, noting that, “God created men in the image of His courage and strength, and He created women in the image of His beauty. He intentionally created women differently than men.” Dad rescued daughter from kidnapper on Christmas And finally, a Texas dad rescued his daughter from a kidnapper on Christmas Day, reported WDBJ7.com.   The 15-year-old was walking her dog, when she was abducted at knife point. Her father traced her location by the phone — and found his daughter in the suspect's truck, rescued her, and called the authorities. Praise God she was not physically harmed.  What a courageous father! Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, December 30th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The Center Square staff discuss Congress' accomplishments and challenges in the past year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square reporters discuss President Trump's first year of his second term. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Center Square staff discuss the developments in Trump's tariff policies throughout 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) -- Ohio's elected leaders have earmarked more than $16 million to commemorate the nation's 250th birthday next year – significantly more than some of the first U.S. states. And they have committed those funds over the course of five years to a commission that is outside of typical state oversight and that is spending significant amounts of money on projects that are not directly related to the country's founding, according a Center Square review.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/ohio/article_e21fab01-fd15-4a99-a135-c5267aea7eef.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Detransitioner Soren Aldaco speaks with The Center Square about her medical transition as a minor and voices support for new HHS actions aimed at restricting federal funding for gender-related drugs and surgeries for children, as Washington officials and advocacy groups respond. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/watch-detransitioner-to-providers-please-just-stop-gender-surgeries-on-minors/ #WashingtonState #HHS #GenderCare #PublicPolicy #HealthcareDebate #TheCenterSquare

It's Wednesday, December 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nicaragua prohibits tourists from bringing Bibles Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that Nicaragua now prohibits tourists from bringing Bibles into the country. This is part of a broader deterioration of religious freedom in the Central American nation. Religious leaders often face arbitrary detention, and officials generally prohibit public religious events. The authoritarian government has also shut down over 1,300 religious groups since 2018. Anna Lee Stangl with Christian Solidarity Worldwide said, “The Nicaraguan government's efforts to restrict the entry of Bibles, other books, newspapers and magazines into the country are highly concerning given the current context of repression. We call on the government of Nicaragua to lift this ban immediately.” The country is ranked 30th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Chile elects conservative, pro-life president Chile elected José Antonio Kast, a conservative former lawmaker, as their president on Sunday, reports NBC News. He won 58 percent of the vote, defeating communist rival Jeanette Jara. Kast is a practicing Catholic, the father of nine children, and a pro-life activist.  He said in his victory speech, “But nothing would be possible if we didn't have God. And that's something we can't fail to acknowledge.” He added a prayer for “wisdom, temperance, and strength” in the challenges ahead. Kast campaigned on dealing with growing crime and illegal migration into the South American country, primarily from Venezuela.  Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” America seized a Venezuelan oil tanker related to terrorism The United States seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela last week. It's the first time the U.S. has seized Venezuelan oil since imposing sanctions on the South American country in 2019. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X, “For multiple years, the oil tanker has been sanctioned by the United States due to its involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations.” U.S. oil production hits historic level The U.S. oil and natural gas industry set production records last month, reports The Center Square. Crude oil output reached about 5.9 million barrels per day, the highest ever recorded in U.S. history. Texas led the production of crude oil and natural gas. So far this year, the Lone Star state's production increased by 5.8 percent despite operating 20 percent fewer rigs. Two Texas cities outlawed abortion Two Texas cities outlawed abortion last week. The City of Springlake, Texas became the 90th city in the nation to pass a Sanctuary City for the Unborn Ordinance last Thursday. And the city council of Tira, Texas became the 91st city to pass such an ordinance on Sunday. Both ordinances passed unanimously.  Tira Mayor Allen Joslin and his wife, Councilwoman Tami Joslin, shared, “We believe this to be the most important item that has come across our forum to vote on, which truly empowers the residents of the Tira community in the battle to protect the unborn.” 60 percent of Americans identify as Christian Pew Research released a new survey on religion in America. The study found that the religious composition of U.S. adults has remained steady over the past five years. During that time, over 60 percent of Americans consistently said they identify as Christians. Previously, affiliation with Christianity was declining, but it appears to be plateauing now.  The study did not find a widespread resurgence of religiosity among young people. Indiana quarterback gives glory to God And finally, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday. He's the first Indiana Hoosier to take home college football's top individual award. Mendoza led the Hoosiers through an undefeated season. They won their first Big Ten Championship since 1967 and become the number one ranked team for the first time.  Listen to comments from Mendoza after winning the Heisman Trophy. MENDOZA: “I'm at a loss of words. Wow! I mean. Thank you. Thank you to everybody. First, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to chase a dream that once felt the world away. Standing here tonight, holding this, holding this bad boy, representing Indiana University, still doesn't feel real.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, December 17th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

(The Center Square) – Amid a national housing crisis, the Biden administration's Department of Housing and Urban Development produced guidelines encouraging property owners to forgo some fair housing practices to favor Afghan refugees, the Trump administration argues in a new directive terminating previous guidelines. The Center Square obtained a HUD directive from the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity rescinding the guidance document, “Operation Allies Welcome: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Fair Housing Issues” and withdrawing from a FHEO guidance document “Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Renting to Refugees and Eligible Newcomers,” which the agency claims violates the Fair Housing Act. Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more:  https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_c816c337-c3b2-4d34-b5f2-a12566d305a6.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Attorney General's Office billed more than 11,000 hours of attorney and staff work on lawsuits against the federal government in an eight-month period following the November 2024 election, according to records obtained by The Center Square. More than a third of those hours were spent working on a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's executive order regarding federal funding for medical providers who perform gender-affirming procedures on children.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_cfeb7b97-74c6-4127-a9ee-97908c7ae6eb.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Greg Bishop shares highlights from supporters and opponents to expansions of the state's migrant sanctuary policies Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Tuesday.Read the story from The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_d11da5c7-1bd9-439e-be54-8aa97212367d.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Center Square investigation details how states continued expanding budgets after the COVID emergency, leaving places like Washington facing major shortfalls as federal funds dry up; https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/fiscal-fallout-states-continue-to-increase-budgets-despite-end-of-covid-emergency/ #StateBudgets #WashingtonState #FiscalCrisis #TheCenterSquare #GovernmentSpending #BudgetShortfall #COVIDImpact

Secretaries are well known for earning modest wages, but not the ones who work at Pocantico Hills Central School District. The school district of 500 students outside New York City has its secretaries rack up $130,000 and $190,000 a year, an investigation by The Center Square found.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – Louisiana's annual budgets swelled more than 71% over the past decade, ticking up year after year under a Democratic governor who expanded Medicaid and led the state through the COVID-19 pandemic. While the pace of spending slowed under a Republican governor elected two years ago, the bottom line keeps growing, an analysis of state records by The Center Square found.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_867cfa6b-54c3-4b65-92c8-c1fd5707afc6.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – The U.S. House select committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol cost almost twice as much as previously reported, including spending taxpayer funds for TV news producers and documentary filmmakers to create videos dramatizing its case against President Donald Trump, an investigation by The Center Square found.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_e6512782-9ecf-4b83-ad61-2fd26f4464f3.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

(The Center Square) – Spending on U.S. House of Representatives office accounts increased by more than 85% over the past three decades but nearly half of that occurred since 2020, an investigation by The Center Square found. The Members' Representational Allowance (MRA) provides each of the 435 U.S. representatives in Congress about $2 million a year to pay staff, travel, buy equipment and run their Washington, D.C., and district offices, giving members wide latitude on how to spend the money within House ethics and administration committee rules Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_d7fcb6c8-de6a-4d3d-ab83-4e3c4bdfd171.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Rod and Greg Show Rundown – Tuesday, October 14, 20254:20 pm: Kara Byrne, Senior Health and Human Services Analyst at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, joins the show to discuss ways Utah can help prevent veteran suicides.4:38 pm: Conn Carroll, Commentary Editor for the Washington Examiner, joins the show to discuss his piece about the closing of the Democratic Party mind.6:05 pm: Bethany Blankley, a Reporter with The Center Square, joins the program to discuss her story on how ten new construction contracts worth $4.5 billion have been awarded to expand the border wall and add technological surveillance.6:38 pm: Nathaniel Blake, Senior Contributor to The Federalist, joins Rod and Greg for a conversation about his piece in which he says LGBTQ activists will not stop coming for your children.

Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.