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Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Colorado politics takes center stage in this intense hour of Rush To Reason with John Rush, Andy Peth, and Charlie Grimes. What happens when a political strategy meant to “expand the tent” actually risks splitting the vote? The conversation begins with a deep dive into Greg Lopez's decision to run as an unaffiliated candidate, raising a critical question: Will his campaign attract new voters—or simply pull support away from Republicans? The hosts explore the complex psychology of Colorado's unaffiliated voters, debating whether they truly act independently or consistently lean left on election day. Could Lopez's strategy unintentionally strengthen Democratic dominance in the state? The discussion then widens to national headlines following Tucker Carlson's controversial comments, prompting debate over foreign policy, media influence, and the shifting landscape of political commentary. Finally, the hour turns to the future of Colorado's political leadership, with speculation about whether Senator Michael Bennett could become the state's next governor—and what that might mean for policy on taxes, guns, and government power. If internal party divisions continue, could Colorado face a dramatic political shift in the next election cycle? HOUR 2 Hour 2 dives deeper into the political fallout surrounding Greg Lopez's decision to run unaffiliated in Colorado. John, Andy, and Charlie dissect the strategy and ask a blunt question: Does this campaign actually broaden the political playing field—or does it split the conservative vote and hand Democrats an even bigger advantage? The conversation explores the behavior of Colorado's rapidly growing unaffiliated voter bloc, with the hosts arguing that many of these voters consistently elect Democrats despite rejecting tax increases and government expansion at the ballot box. Could this contradiction make Lopez's path even harder? The discussion then pivots to national media controversy after Tucker Carlson's remarks about war and surrender spark outrage and debate about Israel, U.S. foreign policy, and the responsibilities of influential commentators. Finally, the hosts look ahead to the next election cycle and raise a sobering possibility: could Michael Bennett become Colorado's next governor? If so, what would that mean for policies involving taxes, guns, health care, and TABOR? As internal battles within the Colorado GOP intensify, the hour closes with a warning that the biggest political threat may come from division within the party itself. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason turns to a topic nearly everyone has an opinion on: America's tipping culture. A new survey claims that more than 80% of Americans believe tipping has spiraled out of control, and John, Andy, and Charlie dive into the growing backlash. Why are customers suddenly being asked to tip everywhere—from coffee counters to fast-food registers—and is the constant pressure pushing people past their limit? Listeners join the conversation with real-life stories about restaurant service, tipping etiquette, and the difference between earning a gratuity and expecting one. When does great service deserve a bigger reward, and when does the digital screen asking for a tip feel more like a demand than a thank-you? The discussion also explores how tipping works in other industries, including casinos, breakfast diners, and service jobs where tips traditionally mattered most. But as technology, taxes, and payment systems change, could the entire tipping model be shifting? With callers weighing in and strong opinions on both sides, the hour asks a question many Americans are now wondering: has tipping reached its breaking point?
Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Colorado politics takes center stage in this intense hour of Rush To Reason with John Rush, Andy Peth, and Charlie Grimes. What happens when a political strategy meant to “expand the tent” actually risks splitting the vote? The conversation begins with a deep dive into Greg Lopez's decision to run as an unaffiliated candidate, raising a critical question: Will his campaign attract new voters—or simply pull support away from Republicans? The hosts explore the complex psychology of Colorado's unaffiliated voters, debating whether they truly act independently or consistently lean left on election day. Could Lopez's strategy unintentionally strengthen Democratic dominance in the state? The discussion then widens to national headlines following Tucker Carlson's controversial comments, prompting debate over foreign policy, media influence, and the shifting landscape of political commentary. Finally, the hour turns to the future of Colorado's political leadership, with speculation about whether Senator Michael Bennett could become the state's next governor—and what that might mean for policy on taxes, guns, and government power. If internal party divisions continue, could Colorado face a dramatic political shift in the next election cycle? HOUR 2 Hour 2 dives deeper into the political fallout surrounding Greg Lopez's decision to run unaffiliated in Colorado. John, Andy, and Charlie dissect the strategy and ask a blunt question: Does this campaign actually broaden the political playing field—or does it split the conservative vote and hand Democrats an even bigger advantage? The conversation explores the behavior of Colorado's rapidly growing unaffiliated voter bloc, with the hosts arguing that many of these voters consistently elect Democrats despite rejecting tax increases and government expansion at the ballot box. Could this contradiction make Lopez's path even harder? The discussion then pivots to national media controversy after Tucker Carlson's remarks about war and surrender spark outrage and debate about Israel, U.S. foreign policy, and the responsibilities of influential commentators. Finally, the hosts look ahead to the next election cycle and raise a sobering possibility: could Michael Bennett become Colorado's next governor? If so, what would that mean for policies involving taxes, guns, health care, and TABOR? As internal battles within the Colorado GOP intensify, the hour closes with a warning that the biggest political threat may come from division within the party itself. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason turns to a topic nearly everyone has an opinion on: America's tipping culture. A new survey claims that more than 80% of Americans believe tipping has spiraled out of control, and John, Andy, and Charlie dive into the growing backlash. Why are customers suddenly being asked to tip everywhere—from coffee counters to fast-food registers—and is the constant pressure pushing people past their limit? Listeners join the conversation with real-life stories about restaurant service, tipping etiquette, and the difference between earning a gratuity and expecting one. When does great service deserve a bigger reward, and when does the digital screen asking for a tip feel more like a demand than a thank-you? The discussion also explores how tipping works in other industries, including casinos, breakfast diners, and service jobs where tips traditionally mattered most. But as technology, taxes, and payment systems change, could the entire tipping model be shifting? With callers weighing in and strong opinions on both sides, the hour asks a question many Americans are now wondering: has tipping reached its breaking point?
Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Colorado politics takes center stage in this intense hour of Rush To Reason with John Rush, Andy Peth, and Charlie Grimes. What happens when a political strategy meant to “expand the tent” actually risks splitting the vote? The conversation begins with a deep dive into Greg Lopez's decision to run as an unaffiliated candidate, raising a critical question: Will his campaign attract new voters—or simply pull support away from Republicans? The hosts explore the complex psychology of Colorado's unaffiliated voters, debating whether they truly act independently or consistently lean left on election day. Could Lopez's strategy unintentionally strengthen Democratic dominance in the state? The discussion then widens to national headlines following Tucker Carlson's controversial comments, prompting debate over foreign policy, media influence, and the shifting landscape of political commentary. Finally, the hour turns to the future of Colorado's political leadership, with speculation about whether Senator Michael Bennett could become the state's next governor—and what that might mean for policy on taxes, guns, and government power. If internal party divisions continue, could Colorado face a dramatic political shift in the next election cycle? HOUR 2 Hour 2 dives deeper into the political fallout surrounding Greg Lopez's decision to run unaffiliated in Colorado. John, Andy, and Charlie dissect the strategy and ask a blunt question: Does this campaign actually broaden the political playing field—or does it split the conservative vote and hand Democrats an even bigger advantage? The conversation explores the behavior of Colorado's rapidly growing unaffiliated voter bloc, with the hosts arguing that many of these voters consistently elect Democrats despite rejecting tax increases and government expansion at the ballot box. Could this contradiction make Lopez's path even harder? The discussion then pivots to national media controversy after Tucker Carlson's remarks about war and surrender spark outrage and debate about Israel, U.S. foreign policy, and the responsibilities of influential commentators. Finally, the hosts look ahead to the next election cycle and raise a sobering possibility: could Michael Bennett become Colorado's next governor? If so, what would that mean for policies involving taxes, guns, health care, and TABOR? As internal battles within the Colorado GOP intensify, the hour closes with a warning that the biggest political threat may come from division within the party itself. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason turns to a topic nearly everyone has an opinion on: America's tipping culture. A new survey claims that more than 80% of Americans believe tipping has spiraled out of control, and John, Andy, and Charlie dive into the growing backlash. Why are customers suddenly being asked to tip everywhere—from coffee counters to fast-food registers—and is the constant pressure pushing people past their limit? Listeners join the conversation with real-life stories about restaurant service, tipping etiquette, and the difference between earning a gratuity and expecting one. When does great service deserve a bigger reward, and when does the digital screen asking for a tip feel more like a demand than a thank-you? The discussion also explores how tipping works in other industries, including casinos, breakfast diners, and service jobs where tips traditionally mattered most. But as technology, taxes, and payment systems change, could the entire tipping model be shifting? With callers weighing in and strong opinions on both sides, the hour asks a question many Americans are now wondering: has tipping reached its breaking point?
Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, there's a lot going on in Colorado and the world this week, so we've got two interviews AND a full episode for you! We weren't at war with Iran when we recorded our last episode, but, surprise, we are now. Then, the Colorado GOP is once again trying to oust their party chair in the run-up to a midterm election in which they're about to get absolutely crushed because some things never change. And if you're polling below “undecided” in a survey, there's a pretty good chance nobody is going to believe that you can somehow win that campaign without an overdose of motivated reasoning. In our continuing quest to interview every Democratic candidate in a competitive primary for an important election in Colorado, we've got Shannon Bird on the show to tell us why she thinks she the best one to take on our 8th favorite member of Congress from colorado this NovemberBut First! we've got a real life version of fan favorite segment “That's Bullshit”; friend of the pod Rep. Joe Neguse joins us to talk about his absolutely wild takedown of DHS secretary Kristi Noem which was so humiliating for the Trump administration they basically fired her the moment Joe was done exposing some wild corruption allegations. That's it for this episode! If you loved watching and/or listening to it as much as we loved recording it, you can thank us by subscribing to the pod wherever you listen, following us over on New Old Twitter AKA Bluesky, subscribing to our shiny new channel on YouTube, smashing that subscribe button on our Substack, and sharing this episode with your friends, your enemies, and your 8th favorite Member of Congress from Colorado! THANK YOU so much for listening, and we'll see you next time!
Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com dives straight into a political firestorm inside the Colorado Republican Party. John Rush and Andy Peth unpack what Andy witnessed during a marathon State Central Committee meeting the night before—one filled with accusations, power struggles, and an overwhelming vote of “no confidence” against party chair Britta Horn. But what's really happening behind the scenes? Were internal allies secretly working against her, and how much influence does former chair Dave Williams still have inside the party? The conversation widens into a bigger question: is the GOP's current caucus-and-assembly system allowing a tiny fraction of activists to control candidate selection and party leadership? With fewer than 1% of Republicans attending caucus meetings, John and Andy ask whether this insider-driven process is producing candidates who can actually win statewide elections. Could eliminating caucuses and relying on petition access to the primary ballot be the only way to rebuild the party in Colorado? They also challenge supporters of the so-called “Davidian” faction to call in and defend their strategy. Is this movement strengthening the Republican Party—or driving it deeper into defeat? HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason picks up with John and Andy tackling some of the biggest questions raised by listeners. What exactly is a “Davidian,” and why do the hosts believe this faction still holds enormous influence inside the Colorado GOP? As they continue unpacking the party's internal turmoil, they argue the caucus-and-assembly system allows a tiny fraction of activists to control leadership decisions—leaving most Republican voters on the sidelines. Could a statewide petition to eliminate caucuses be the only way to change the political trajectory of Colorado? The conversation then pivots to global strategy. Are U.S. actions against Iran really about protecting Israel, or is something much larger at play? John and Andy outline what they see as a broader geopolitical chessboard involving oil markets, China, Russia, and shifting alliances across the Middle East. Later, they turn to domestic energy politics. Why are resource-rich places like California, Colorado, and even Canada importing energy while restricting their own production? And could policy choices—rather than shortages—be driving rising costs? Through it all, the hosts challenge listeners to think strategically: if political leadership, energy policy, and global alliances are all connected, what happens next? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives deeper into the political turmoil inside the Colorado GOP. John and Andy argue the party's internal battles didn't suddenly appear—they've been building for more than a decade. How did a small faction gain so much influence inside the party, and why do the hosts believe former chair Dave Williams still holds power behind the scenes? John insists the lawsuits and leadership fights are symptoms of a much bigger problem tied to the caucus system itself. The conversation then shifts toward the 2026 election landscape. Is Colorado headed for a massive blue wave—and could the state's divided Republican Party make it even worse? The hosts analyze potential candidates, including Victor Marx and Scott Bottoms, as they debate strategy, messaging, and whether debates even matter this early in a campaign. A listener then raises a provocative question: if statewide victories are unlikely, should Republicans focus on flipping key legislative seats instead? Could a smarter strategy in the House and Senate change the balance of power in Colorado—even if the governor's race is out of reach?
Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com dives straight into a political firestorm inside the Colorado Republican Party. John Rush and Andy Peth unpack what Andy witnessed during a marathon State Central Committee meeting the night before—one filled with accusations, power struggles, and an overwhelming vote of “no confidence” against party chair Britta Horn. But what's really happening behind the scenes? Were internal allies secretly working against her, and how much influence does former chair Dave Williams still have inside the party? The conversation widens into a bigger question: is the GOP's current caucus-and-assembly system allowing a tiny fraction of activists to control candidate selection and party leadership? With fewer than 1% of Republicans attending caucus meetings, John and Andy ask whether this insider-driven process is producing candidates who can actually win statewide elections. Could eliminating caucuses and relying on petition access to the primary ballot be the only way to rebuild the party in Colorado? They also challenge supporters of the so-called “Davidian” faction to call in and defend their strategy. Is this movement strengthening the Republican Party—or driving it deeper into defeat? HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason picks up with John and Andy tackling some of the biggest questions raised by listeners. What exactly is a “Davidian,” and why do the hosts believe this faction still holds enormous influence inside the Colorado GOP? As they continue unpacking the party's internal turmoil, they argue the caucus-and-assembly system allows a tiny fraction of activists to control leadership decisions—leaving most Republican voters on the sidelines. Could a statewide petition to eliminate caucuses be the only way to change the political trajectory of Colorado? The conversation then pivots to global strategy. Are U.S. actions against Iran really about protecting Israel, or is something much larger at play? John and Andy outline what they see as a broader geopolitical chessboard involving oil markets, China, Russia, and shifting alliances across the Middle East. Later, they turn to domestic energy politics. Why are resource-rich places like California, Colorado, and even Canada importing energy while restricting their own production? And could policy choices—rather than shortages—be driving rising costs? Through it all, the hosts challenge listeners to think strategically: if political leadership, energy policy, and global alliances are all connected, what happens next? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives deeper into the political turmoil inside the Colorado GOP. John and Andy argue the party's internal battles didn't suddenly appear—they've been building for more than a decade. How did a small faction gain so much influence inside the party, and why do the hosts believe former chair Dave Williams still holds power behind the scenes? John insists the lawsuits and leadership fights are symptoms of a much bigger problem tied to the caucus system itself. The conversation then shifts toward the 2026 election landscape. Is Colorado headed for a massive blue wave—and could the state's divided Republican Party make it even worse? The hosts analyze potential candidates, including Victor Marx and Scott Bottoms, as they debate strategy, messaging, and whether debates even matter this early in a campaign. A listener then raises a provocative question: if statewide victories are unlikely, should Republicans focus on flipping key legislative seats instead? Could a smarter strategy in the House and Senate change the balance of power in Colorado—even if the governor's race is out of reach?
Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. HOUR 1 Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com dives straight into a political firestorm inside the Colorado Republican Party. John Rush and Andy Peth unpack what Andy witnessed during a marathon State Central Committee meeting the night before—one filled with accusations, power struggles, and an overwhelming vote of “no confidence” against party chair Britta Horn. But what's really happening behind the scenes? Were internal allies secretly working against her, and how much influence does former chair Dave Williams still have inside the party? The conversation widens into a bigger question: is the GOP's current caucus-and-assembly system allowing a tiny fraction of activists to control candidate selection and party leadership? With fewer than 1% of Republicans attending caucus meetings, John and Andy ask whether this insider-driven process is producing candidates who can actually win statewide elections. Could eliminating caucuses and relying on petition access to the primary ballot be the only way to rebuild the party in Colorado? They also challenge supporters of the so-called “Davidian” faction to call in and defend their strategy. Is this movement strengthening the Republican Party—or driving it deeper into defeat? HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason picks up with John and Andy tackling some of the biggest questions raised by listeners. What exactly is a “Davidian,” and why do the hosts believe this faction still holds enormous influence inside the Colorado GOP? As they continue unpacking the party's internal turmoil, they argue the caucus-and-assembly system allows a tiny fraction of activists to control leadership decisions—leaving most Republican voters on the sidelines. Could a statewide petition to eliminate caucuses be the only way to change the political trajectory of Colorado? The conversation then pivots to global strategy. Are U.S. actions against Iran really about protecting Israel, or is something much larger at play? John and Andy outline what they see as a broader geopolitical chessboard involving oil markets, China, Russia, and shifting alliances across the Middle East. Later, they turn to domestic energy politics. Why are resource-rich places like California, Colorado, and even Canada importing energy while restricting their own production? And could policy choices—rather than shortages—be driving rising costs? Through it all, the hosts challenge listeners to think strategically: if political leadership, energy policy, and global alliances are all connected, what happens next? HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason dives deeper into the political turmoil inside the Colorado GOP. John and Andy argue the party's internal battles didn't suddenly appear—they've been building for more than a decade. How did a small faction gain so much influence inside the party, and why do the hosts believe former chair Dave Williams still holds power behind the scenes? John insists the lawsuits and leadership fights are symptoms of a much bigger problem tied to the caucus system itself. The conversation then shifts toward the 2026 election landscape. Is Colorado headed for a massive blue wave—and could the state's divided Republican Party make it even worse? The hosts analyze potential candidates, including Victor Marx and Scott Bottoms, as they debate strategy, messaging, and whether debates even matter this early in a campaign. A listener then raises a provocative question: if statewide victories are unlikely, should Republicans focus on flipping key legislative seats instead? Could a smarter strategy in the House and Senate change the balance of power in Colorado—even if the governor's race is out of reach?
Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Crisis in the Colorado GOP and Geopolitical Shifts in Iran: The Chuck and Julie Show This episode of the Chuck and Julie Show focuses on the escalating financial and leadership crisis within the Colorado Republican Party under Chair Brita Horn. The hosts also analyze the geopolitical fallout following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and the subsequent military actions by the U.S. and Israel. The Colorado GOP Financial Collapse and Leadership Dispute The Colorado Republican Party is facing a severe internal crisis characterized by mounting debt and legal "lawfare." Since Chair Brita Horn took office less than a year ago, the party's finances have plummeted from a 74,000 surplus to debt exceeding 267,000 as of January. The hosts highlight that the party is currently accumulating debt at a rate of approximately 2,800 per day. Much of this is attributed to legal fees from attorney Steve Klinda, who billed the party 84,000 in January alone and is now demanding a total of $211,000. Critics argue these legal actions are vindictive and aimed at fellow Republicans rather than political opponents. Ray Garcia, Chairman of the Colorado Hispanic Republicans, joined the discussion to detail the efforts to oust Horn. A petition was filed to hold a meeting where 90% of eligible voters previously demanded Horn's resignation, though she has disputed the validity of that meeting. A second meeting is scheduled for tonight, but there are significant concerns regarding "technical glitches" and administrative manipulation intended to rig the voting numbers. Garcia noted that the party's attorney has been avoiding service of legal papers while continuing to bill for communication regarding the dispute. International Turmoil: The Neutralization of Iranian Threats The discussion shifted to the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and the Trump administration's aggressive military response. The hosts noted that the U.S. Navy and Israeli forces have effectively dismantled the Iranian Navy, reducing their presence in the Gulf of Hormuz from 11 ships to zero. Military strikes have also targeted radar systems and defense shields protecting Iran's nuclear arsenal. While the hosts expressed ambivalence toward long-term "nation-building," they supported the immediate neutralization of a regime that has historically called for "Death to America". The hosts observed that the Iranian regime appears to be in chaos, with sporadic drone attacks on neighbors like Dubai possibly being a desperate attempt to test remaining defense mechanisms or simply the result of a fractured command structure. Despite the instability, the hosts highlighted that many Iranians, particularly the urban middle class and women, appear supportive of the regime's downfall, though the lack of a clear successor remains a concern. The Colorado GOP is at a breaking point, with its future dependent on the outcome of tonight's contentious leadership meeting and the resolution of its massive debt. Internationally, the power vacuum in Iran presents both an opportunity for regional stability and a risk of prolonged chaos, as the U.S. shifts away from nation-building toward a strategy of pure threat neutralization.
Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Crisis in the Colorado GOP and Geopolitical Shifts in Iran: The Chuck and Julie Show This episode of the Chuck and Julie Show focuses on the escalating financial and leadership crisis within the Colorado Republican Party under Chair Brita Horn. The hosts also analyze the geopolitical fallout following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and the subsequent military actions by the U.S. and Israel. The Colorado GOP Financial Collapse and Leadership Dispute The Colorado Republican Party is facing a severe internal crisis characterized by mounting debt and legal "lawfare." Since Chair Brita Horn took office less than a year ago, the party's finances have plummeted from a 74,000 surplus to debt exceeding 267,000 as of January. The hosts highlight that the party is currently accumulating debt at a rate of approximately 2,800 per day. Much of this is attributed to legal fees from attorney Steve Klinda, who billed the party 84,000 in January alone and is now demanding a total of $211,000. Critics argue these legal actions are vindictive and aimed at fellow Republicans rather than political opponents. Ray Garcia, Chairman of the Colorado Hispanic Republicans, joined the discussion to detail the efforts to oust Horn. A petition was filed to hold a meeting where 90% of eligible voters previously demanded Horn's resignation, though she has disputed the validity of that meeting. A second meeting is scheduled for tonight, but there are significant concerns regarding "technical glitches" and administrative manipulation intended to rig the voting numbers. Garcia noted that the party's attorney has been avoiding service of legal papers while continuing to bill for communication regarding the dispute. International Turmoil: The Neutralization of Iranian Threats The discussion shifted to the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and the Trump administration's aggressive military response. The hosts noted that the U.S. Navy and Israeli forces have effectively dismantled the Iranian Navy, reducing their presence in the Gulf of Hormuz from 11 ships to zero. Military strikes have also targeted radar systems and defense shields protecting Iran's nuclear arsenal. While the hosts expressed ambivalence toward long-term "nation-building," they supported the immediate neutralization of a regime that has historically called for "Death to America". The hosts observed that the Iranian regime appears to be in chaos, with sporadic drone attacks on neighbors like Dubai possibly being a desperate attempt to test remaining defense mechanisms or simply the result of a fractured command structure. Despite the instability, the hosts highlighted that many Iranians, particularly the urban middle class and women, appear supportive of the regime's downfall, though the lack of a clear successor remains a concern. The Colorado GOP is at a breaking point, with its future dependent on the outcome of tonight's contentious leadership meeting and the resolution of its massive debt. Internationally, the power vacuum in Iran presents both an opportunity for regional stability and a risk of prolonged chaos, as the U.S. shifts away from nation-building toward a strategy of pure threat neutralization.
Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden CO GOP Chair Horn caves and agrees to hold special meeting regarding her failed leadership…. But there's a twist. this episode, Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden break down the escalating civil war within the Colorado Republican Party leadership and the controversial "Trump Doctrine" speech delivered by Marco Rubio in Munich. The duo also critiques Ken Buck's new anti-socialism venture and the latest revelations involving Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein. The Colorado GOP Leadership Crisis The program highlights a deepening divide within the Colorado GOP, centered on Chairwoman Britta Horn. Central Committee members previously voted to fire her personal attorney, Steve Klenda, who has reportedly accrued $200,000 in legal fees used for "lawfare" against the party's grassroots. Horn has allegedly ignored these votes and petitions for special meetings. Most recently, she is accused of cutting off Secretary Russ Andrews' access to party records and Zoom accounts after he validated petitions for a meeting. Critics suggest this disarray may be a deliberate strategy by wealthy donors to collapse the party structure in favor of "jungle primaries". National Politics and the "Trump Doctrine" The hosts analyze Senator Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Safety Conference, describing it as a bold articulation of the "Trump Doctrine." Rubio emphasized that the United States is a "child of Europe" with Christian values and warned against "civilizational erasure" through unchecked immigration. His speech touched on three pillars: protectionist trade policies (noting one cannot have free trade with non-free traders), the necessity of secure supply chains, and skepticism toward "insane" climate change policies that he claims are bankrupting Western nations while rivals like China expand coal use. Media, Culture, and the "Establishment" The discussion shifts to Ken Buck's new project aimed at educating youth on the failures of socialism. Chuck and Julie criticize the project's production quality and its redundant nature, suggesting it may be a "hobby" or a fundraising front. Additionally, they examine leaked communications between Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein from 2018-2019. The hosts describe Bannon as appearing "pompous" and "arrogant" in these interactions, questioning his motivations for maintaining ties with Epstein long after the latter's initial convictions. Climate Change and Local Impacts Julie critiques a Denver Post article regarding the impact of low snowfall on ski resorts, labeling it "green news scam" journalism funded by NGOs. She argues that natural climate cycles are being unfairly blamed on local behavior, while energy prices in Colorado rise due to the transition to wind and solar infrastructures that are not yet fully operational or integrated into the grid. The episode paints a picture of a Republican party at a crossroads, both locally in Colorado and globally. While local leadership struggles with internal litigation and administrative "lockouts," national figures like Rubio are attempting to redefine the party's core identity around Western civilizational values and economic protectionism.
Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden CO GOP Chair Horn caves and agrees to hold special meeting regarding her failed leadership…. But there's a twist. this episode, Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden break down the escalating civil war within the Colorado Republican Party leadership and the controversial "Trump Doctrine" speech delivered by Marco Rubio in Munich. The duo also critiques Ken Buck's new anti-socialism venture and the latest revelations involving Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein. The Colorado GOP Leadership Crisis The program highlights a deepening divide within the Colorado GOP, centered on Chairwoman Britta Horn. Central Committee members previously voted to fire her personal attorney, Steve Klenda, who has reportedly accrued $200,000 in legal fees used for "lawfare" against the party's grassroots. Horn has allegedly ignored these votes and petitions for special meetings. Most recently, she is accused of cutting off Secretary Russ Andrews' access to party records and Zoom accounts after he validated petitions for a meeting. Critics suggest this disarray may be a deliberate strategy by wealthy donors to collapse the party structure in favor of "jungle primaries". National Politics and the "Trump Doctrine" The hosts analyze Senator Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Safety Conference, describing it as a bold articulation of the "Trump Doctrine." Rubio emphasized that the United States is a "child of Europe" with Christian values and warned against "civilizational erasure" through unchecked immigration. His speech touched on three pillars: protectionist trade policies (noting one cannot have free trade with non-free traders), the necessity of secure supply chains, and skepticism toward "insane" climate change policies that he claims are bankrupting Western nations while rivals like China expand coal use. Media, Culture, and the "Establishment" The discussion shifts to Ken Buck's new project aimed at educating youth on the failures of socialism. Chuck and Julie criticize the project's production quality and its redundant nature, suggesting it may be a "hobby" or a fundraising front. Additionally, they examine leaked communications between Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein from 2018-2019. The hosts describe Bannon as appearing "pompous" and "arrogant" in these interactions, questioning his motivations for maintaining ties with Epstein long after the latter's initial convictions. Climate Change and Local Impacts Julie critiques a Denver Post article regarding the impact of low snowfall on ski resorts, labeling it "green news scam" journalism funded by NGOs. She argues that natural climate cycles are being unfairly blamed on local behavior, while energy prices in Colorado rise due to the transition to wind and solar infrastructures that are not yet fully operational or integrated into the grid. The episode paints a picture of a Republican party at a crossroads, both locally in Colorado and globally. While local leadership struggles with internal litigation and administrative "lockouts," national figures like Rubio are attempting to redefine the party's core identity around Western civilizational values and economic protectionism.
FEBRUARY 14, 2026 HOUR 1: Peter Boyles and Jon Caldara discuss how election denial, unproven accusations, and exaggerated personal claims from several Republican gubernatorial hopefuls— including Joe Oltmann, Scott Bottoms, and Victor Marx — are harming Republican credibility and competitiveness in Colorado.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, the reports of the political insurgency in Colorado Politics appear to have been greatly exaggerated; we check in on how the 2026 primaries are shaping up on both sides of the aisle. Then, did new leadership bring a new dawn and a new day for the Colorado GOP? No, somehow the new Chair is even less competent than Dave Williams, which is a very high or very low bar! Then, we always said Gabe Evans would come to regret his lie that ICE agents are going after “gangsters, not grandmas,” and that day is officially here. Then, Lauren Boebert wants credit for doing the wrong thing, and President Trump may not actually know WHY Tina Peters is in jail in Colorado.But first, after a year of living in an Oligarchic Kleptocracy or a Kleptocratic Oligarchy, we check back in with Professor Tom Pepinsky of Cornell University to see if we've really slid into authoritarianism or if Trump 2.0 is too incompetent to pull it off.That's it for this episode! If you loved watching and/or listening to it as much as we loved recording it, you can thank us by subscribing to the pod wherever you listen, following us over on New Old Twitter AKA Bluesky, subscribing to our shiny new channel on YouTube, smashing that subscribe button on our Substack, and sharing this episode with your friends, your enemies, and your 8th favorite Member of Congress from Colorado! THANK YOU so much for listening, and we'll see you next time!
Don't just listen, call in with your perspective at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3pm - 6 pm MT. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush setting a blunt, no-nonsense tone about reality, responsibility, and hard truths—then quickly moves into logic, politics, and power. An “impossible question” sparks a broader discussion about the danger of confusing correlation with causation, especially in political narratives. The hour intensifies with a deep dive into U.S. global leadership and NATO, arguing that America's strength—and restraint—has made it the least imperialistic superpower in history. Can Europe truly defend itself without the U.S., and why do critics at home benefit from the power they condemn? From there, John and Andy confront internal Republican fractures, dissecting claims from Marjorie Taylor Greene on immigration, ICE, and “uniparty” politics. Are purity tests and viral outrage helping conservatives—or undermining their own leverage? A heated discussion follows on protests, firearms, and law enforcement, drawing sharp lines between principle and dangerous real-world consequences. The hour closes with an economic warning shot at Canada's leadership, trade threats, and reliance on money printing. Is Canada facing a temporary bump—or a delayed collapse? With global economics, party infighting, and uncomfortable questions about power and accountability, Hour 1 pulls no punches. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason features a deep-dive conversation with Jim D'Arezzo , president of Aquaterex (https://aquaterrex.com/), unpacking one of the most overlooked issues behind AI expansion: water. As data centers explode across the country—often in arid regions—Jim explains why energy costs, regulation, and location matter more than rainfall, and why vast deep-groundwater reserves could change everything. Is America really running out of water, or are we fighting over the wrong supply? Listeners then weigh in from across the country, challenging where AI centers are built and why states rich in water and power still lose out. John and Andy examine the hidden tradeoffs: massive electricity demand, limited permanent jobs, labor shortages, and policies that quietly push investment elsewhere. The hour closes by zooming out to global risk, reacting to the updated Doomsday Clock and questioning whether today's warnings reflect real danger—or political fear. With technology, infrastructure, economics, and geopolitics colliding, Hour 2 asks a provocative question: are we preparing for the future—or misreading the threats entirely? Guest Timestamps * Jim D'Arezzo - 1:16 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason opens with a hard-hitting discussion of national security and the rule of law featuring Jim Pfaff of the Conservative Caucus (https://theconservativecaucus.com/). The conversation centers on violent anti-ICE protests, alleged coordinated funding networks, and the legal realities surrounding firearms, protests, and split-second law-enforcement decisions. Where does lawful behavior end—and reckless interference begin? John and Andy then pivot to a broader warning about political activism, arguing that protests rarely change policy and often escalate risk for both citizens and officers. The hour takes a sharp inward turn as they dissect internal Colorado GOP dysfunction, laying out a detailed critique of former leadership and the long-term damage caused by conflicts of interest, power grabs, and party infighting. The message is blunt: Republicans won't win by rage, mobs, or internal sabotage—but through disciplined leadership, credible candidates, and restoring trust. With tensions rising nationally and locally, Hour 3 asks a sobering question: are we serious about fixing what's broken, or just fueling the chaos? Guest Timestamps * Jim Pfaff – 1:15
Don't just listen, call in with your perspective at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3pm - 6 pm MT. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush setting a blunt, no-nonsense tone about reality, responsibility, and hard truths—then quickly moves into logic, politics, and power. An “impossible question” sparks a broader discussion about the danger of confusing correlation with causation, especially in political narratives. The hour intensifies with a deep dive into U.S. global leadership and NATO, arguing that America's strength—and restraint—has made it the least imperialistic superpower in history. Can Europe truly defend itself without the U.S., and why do critics at home benefit from the power they condemn? From there, John and Andy confront internal Republican fractures, dissecting claims from Marjorie Taylor Greene on immigration, ICE, and “uniparty” politics. Are purity tests and viral outrage helping conservatives—or undermining their own leverage? A heated discussion follows on protests, firearms, and law enforcement, drawing sharp lines between principle and dangerous real-world consequences. The hour closes with an economic warning shot at Canada's leadership, trade threats, and reliance on money printing. Is Canada facing a temporary bump—or a delayed collapse? With global economics, party infighting, and uncomfortable questions about power and accountability, Hour 1 pulls no punches. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason features a deep-dive conversation with Jim D'Arezzo , president of Aquaterex (https://aquaterrex.com/), unpacking one of the most overlooked issues behind AI expansion: water. As data centers explode across the country—often in arid regions—Jim explains why energy costs, regulation, and location matter more than rainfall, and why vast deep-groundwater reserves could change everything. Is America really running out of water, or are we fighting over the wrong supply? Listeners then weigh in from across the country, challenging where AI centers are built and why states rich in water and power still lose out. John and Andy examine the hidden tradeoffs: massive electricity demand, limited permanent jobs, labor shortages, and policies that quietly push investment elsewhere. The hour closes by zooming out to global risk, reacting to the updated Doomsday Clock and questioning whether today's warnings reflect real danger—or political fear. With technology, infrastructure, economics, and geopolitics colliding, Hour 2 asks a provocative question: are we preparing for the future—or misreading the threats entirely? Guest Timestamps * Jim D'Arezzo - 1:16 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason opens with a hard-hitting discussion of national security and the rule of law featuring Jim Pfaff of the Conservative Caucus (https://theconservativecaucus.com/). The conversation centers on violent anti-ICE protests, alleged coordinated funding networks, and the legal realities surrounding firearms, protests, and split-second law-enforcement decisions. Where does lawful behavior end—and reckless interference begin? John and Andy then pivot to a broader warning about political activism, arguing that protests rarely change policy and often escalate risk for both citizens and officers. The hour takes a sharp inward turn as they dissect internal Colorado GOP dysfunction, laying out a detailed critique of former leadership and the long-term damage caused by conflicts of interest, power grabs, and party infighting. The message is blunt: Republicans won't win by rage, mobs, or internal sabotage—but through disciplined leadership, credible candidates, and restoring trust. With tensions rising nationally and locally, Hour 3 asks a sobering question: are we serious about fixing what's broken, or just fueling the chaos? Guest Timestamps * Jim Pfaff – 1:15
Don't just listen, call in with your perspective at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3pm - 6 pm MT. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush setting a blunt, no-nonsense tone about reality, responsibility, and hard truths—then quickly moves into logic, politics, and power. An “impossible question” sparks a broader discussion about the danger of confusing correlation with causation, especially in political narratives. The hour intensifies with a deep dive into U.S. global leadership and NATO, arguing that America's strength—and restraint—has made it the least imperialistic superpower in history. Can Europe truly defend itself without the U.S., and why do critics at home benefit from the power they condemn? From there, John and Andy confront internal Republican fractures, dissecting claims from Marjorie Taylor Greene on immigration, ICE, and “uniparty” politics. Are purity tests and viral outrage helping conservatives—or undermining their own leverage? A heated discussion follows on protests, firearms, and law enforcement, drawing sharp lines between principle and dangerous real-world consequences. The hour closes with an economic warning shot at Canada's leadership, trade threats, and reliance on money printing. Is Canada facing a temporary bump—or a delayed collapse? With global economics, party infighting, and uncomfortable questions about power and accountability, Hour 1 pulls no punches. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason features a deep-dive conversation with Jim D'Arezzo , president of Aquaterex (https://aquaterrex.com/), unpacking one of the most overlooked issues behind AI expansion: water. As data centers explode across the country—often in arid regions—Jim explains why energy costs, regulation, and location matter more than rainfall, and why vast deep-groundwater reserves could change everything. Is America really running out of water, or are we fighting over the wrong supply? Listeners then weigh in from across the country, challenging where AI centers are built and why states rich in water and power still lose out. John and Andy examine the hidden tradeoffs: massive electricity demand, limited permanent jobs, labor shortages, and policies that quietly push investment elsewhere. The hour closes by zooming out to global risk, reacting to the updated Doomsday Clock and questioning whether today's warnings reflect real danger—or political fear. With technology, infrastructure, economics, and geopolitics colliding, Hour 2 asks a provocative question: are we preparing for the future—or misreading the threats entirely? Guest Timestamps * Jim D'Arezzo - 1:16 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason opens with a hard-hitting discussion of national security and the rule of law featuring Jim Pfaff of the Conservative Caucus (https://theconservativecaucus.com/). The conversation centers on violent anti-ICE protests, alleged coordinated funding networks, and the legal realities surrounding firearms, protests, and split-second law-enforcement decisions. Where does lawful behavior end—and reckless interference begin? John and Andy then pivot to a broader warning about political activism, arguing that protests rarely change policy and often escalate risk for both citizens and officers. The hour takes a sharp inward turn as they dissect internal Colorado GOP dysfunction, laying out a detailed critique of former leadership and the long-term damage caused by conflicts of interest, power grabs, and party infighting. The message is blunt: Republicans won't win by rage, mobs, or internal sabotage—but through disciplined leadership, credible candidates, and restoring trust. With tensions rising nationally and locally, Hour 3 asks a sobering question: are we serious about fixing what's broken, or just fueling the chaos? Guest Timestamps * Jim Pfaff – 1:15
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush taking on one of the most misunderstood concepts in America today: free speech. What does it actually protect—and where does it stop? Using real-world examples from churches, workplaces, schools, stadiums, airlines, and even the NFL, John breaks down the critical difference between public spaces and private property, challenging assumptions on both the left and the right. The discussion intensifies with calls from listeners highlighting school censorship and workplace double standards, raising tough questions about when speech is being silenced—and when rules are simply being enforced. John then pivots sharply into Colorado GOP politics, alleging serious digital misconduct by former party leadership and warning about the dangers of poor oversight, technical ignorance, and unchecked power. Who's accountable when records disappear? And how much damage can one person do on the way out the door? This hour is blunt, confrontational, and packed with uncomfortable truths—about rights, responsibility, and why misunderstanding civics has consequences far beyond social media outrage. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason dives headfirst into economics, the Federal Reserve, NFL playoff drama, and a high-profile car review. John Rush is joined by Mitch Francis, founder of Francis Development Inc. (https://Bad-AssSolutions.com), for a blunt breakdown of why the Fed's interest-rate strategy may be hurting Main Street more than helping inflation. Why do unelected officials wield so much power—and why does the cost always land on consumers and small businesses? The hour then shifts into NFL playoff chaos, as John and Richard Rush analyze the Broncos' emotional win, controversial calls, and the sudden loss of Bo Nix. Can backup Jarrett Stidham rise to the moment, and is Denver actually ahead of schedule? The hour closes with a detailed car review of the 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid. From monetary policy to playoff pressure to plug-in hybrids, this hour asks one big question: who's really prepared for what comes next? Timestamps * Mitch Francis, Founder – Francis Development Inc. - 1:11 * Richard Rush, NFL - 26:47 * Car Review: 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid- 42:27 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason is fast-paced and unapologetic, opening with John Rush in a deep dive on worker freedom and union power. John is joined by Mark Mix, president of National Right to Work (https://www.nrtw.org/), who breaks down Colorado legislation that could force workers to pay union dues without a vote. Is this about representation—or political power funded by workers who may not agree with it? The hour then pivots sharply to planned power outages, lawsuits, and accountability, as John dismantles the City of Golden's claims and explains why Xcel Energy is prioritizing liability protection after the Marshall Fire settlement. Listeners weigh in with legal and real-world insight, exposing how Colorado's liability standards, regulatory politics, and court venues are shaping utility behavior statewide. The takeaway is blunt: outages aren't a fluke—they're the future. From elections to energy policy to personal preparedness, this hour challenges listeners to ask a hard question: if the system won't protect you, are you ready to protect yourself? Timestamps * Mark Mix, President – National Right to Work - 1:12
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush taking on one of the most misunderstood concepts in America today: free speech. What does it actually protect—and where does it stop? Using real-world examples from churches, workplaces, schools, stadiums, airlines, and even the NFL, John breaks down the critical difference between public spaces and private property, challenging assumptions on both the left and the right. The discussion intensifies with calls from listeners highlighting school censorship and workplace double standards, raising tough questions about when speech is being silenced—and when rules are simply being enforced. John then pivots sharply into Colorado GOP politics, alleging serious digital misconduct by former party leadership and warning about the dangers of poor oversight, technical ignorance, and unchecked power. Who's accountable when records disappear? And how much damage can one person do on the way out the door? This hour is blunt, confrontational, and packed with uncomfortable truths—about rights, responsibility, and why misunderstanding civics has consequences far beyond social media outrage. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason dives headfirst into economics, the Federal Reserve, NFL playoff drama, and a high-profile car review. John Rush is joined by Mitch Francis, founder of Francis Development Inc. (https://Bad-AssSolutions.com), for a blunt breakdown of why the Fed's interest-rate strategy may be hurting Main Street more than helping inflation. Why do unelected officials wield so much power—and why does the cost always land on consumers and small businesses? The hour then shifts into NFL playoff chaos, as John and Richard Rush analyze the Broncos' emotional win, controversial calls, and the sudden loss of Bo Nix. Can backup Jarrett Stidham rise to the moment, and is Denver actually ahead of schedule? The hour closes with a detailed car review of the 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid. From monetary policy to playoff pressure to plug-in hybrids, this hour asks one big question: who's really prepared for what comes next? Timestamps * Mitch Francis, Founder – Francis Development Inc. - 1:11 * Richard Rush, NFL - 26:47 * Car Review: 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid- 42:27 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason is fast-paced and unapologetic, opening with John Rush in a deep dive on worker freedom and union power. John is joined by Mark Mix, president of National Right to Work (https://www.nrtw.org/), who breaks down Colorado legislation that could force workers to pay union dues without a vote. Is this about representation—or political power funded by workers who may not agree with it? The hour then pivots sharply to planned power outages, lawsuits, and accountability, as John dismantles the City of Golden's claims and explains why Xcel Energy is prioritizing liability protection after the Marshall Fire settlement. Listeners weigh in with legal and real-world insight, exposing how Colorado's liability standards, regulatory politics, and court venues are shaping utility behavior statewide. The takeaway is blunt: outages aren't a fluke—they're the future. From elections to energy policy to personal preparedness, this hour challenges listeners to ask a hard question: if the system won't protect you, are you ready to protect yourself? Timestamps * Mark Mix, President – National Right to Work - 1:12
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with John Rush taking on one of the most misunderstood concepts in America today: free speech. What does it actually protect—and where does it stop? Using real-world examples from churches, workplaces, schools, stadiums, airlines, and even the NFL, John breaks down the critical difference between public spaces and private property, challenging assumptions on both the left and the right. The discussion intensifies with calls from listeners highlighting school censorship and workplace double standards, raising tough questions about when speech is being silenced—and when rules are simply being enforced. John then pivots sharply into Colorado GOP politics, alleging serious digital misconduct by former party leadership and warning about the dangers of poor oversight, technical ignorance, and unchecked power. Who's accountable when records disappear? And how much damage can one person do on the way out the door? This hour is blunt, confrontational, and packed with uncomfortable truths—about rights, responsibility, and why misunderstanding civics has consequences far beyond social media outrage. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason dives headfirst into economics, the Federal Reserve, NFL playoff drama, and a high-profile car review. John Rush is joined by Mitch Francis, founder of Francis Development Inc. (https://Bad-AssSolutions.com), for a blunt breakdown of why the Fed's interest-rate strategy may be hurting Main Street more than helping inflation. Why do unelected officials wield so much power—and why does the cost always land on consumers and small businesses? The hour then shifts into NFL playoff chaos, as John and Richard Rush analyze the Broncos' emotional win, controversial calls, and the sudden loss of Bo Nix. Can backup Jarrett Stidham rise to the moment, and is Denver actually ahead of schedule? The hour closes with a detailed car review of the 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid. From monetary policy to playoff pressure to plug-in hybrids, this hour asks one big question: who's really prepared for what comes next? Timestamps * Mitch Francis, Founder – Francis Development Inc. - 1:11 * Richard Rush, NFL - 26:47 * Car Review: 2026 Lexus TX 550h Plug-In Hybrid- 42:27 HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason is fast-paced and unapologetic, opening with John Rush in a deep dive on worker freedom and union power. John is joined by Mark Mix, president of National Right to Work (https://www.nrtw.org/), who breaks down Colorado legislation that could force workers to pay union dues without a vote. Is this about representation—or political power funded by workers who may not agree with it? The hour then pivots sharply to planned power outages, lawsuits, and accountability, as John dismantles the City of Golden's claims and explains why Xcel Energy is prioritizing liability protection after the Marshall Fire settlement. Listeners weigh in with legal and real-world insight, exposing how Colorado's liability standards, regulatory politics, and court venues are shaping utility behavior statewide. The takeaway is blunt: outages aren't a fluke—they're the future. From elections to energy policy to personal preparedness, this hour challenges listeners to ask a hard question: if the system won't protect you, are you ready to protect yourself? Timestamps * Mark Mix, President – National Right to Work - 1:12
Big questions. High stakes and Consequences Reaching Far Beyond Colorado. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with urgency and sharp commentary as John Rush sets the tone: something feels off—and voters know it. From TABOR and taxes to crime, cost of living, and Colorado's political direction, the conversation asks hard questions about leadership and accountability in a blue-leaning state. The centerpiece of the hour is an extended interview with Jason Mikesell (https://www.mikesell4gov.com/), Republican candidate for Colorado governor. Mikesell lays out a strategy focused on electability, public safety, fiscal discipline, and kitchen-table issues, arguing that Republicans must win independents without abandoning core principles. Drawing on his law-enforcement and business background, he stresses leadership over ideology, law and order, and the need to resist California-style policies that raise costs and drive out jobs. John presses him on faith voters, government staffing, crime policy, and everyday regulations—from early prisoner releases to catalytic-converter mandates—that hit average Coloradans directly. The hour closes with candid analysis of the GOP field, movement politics vs. broad appeal, and why candidate choice—not just policy—may decide Colorado's future. Is TABOR the last guardrail? Can a “dark horse” win where others failed? And what issues actually move swing voters right now? Guest Timestamp * Jason Mikesell - 11:04 HOUR 2 Hour 2 intensifies quickly as John and Andy tackle law and order, political strategy, and internal GOP turmoil. The hour opens with a hard-hitting interview featuring Jody Weiss, former FBI agent and former Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Weiss breaks down the Minnesota church disruption, explaining why claims of “free speech” don't apply on private property and why existing federal laws could—and should—be enforced. How long can ICE operate while under siege, and what happens when local officials refuse to cooperate? The conversation then pivots to optics and strategy, questioning whether aggressive tactics on ICE, Greenland, and even Jerome Powell are helping or hurting the broader mission. Is President Trump right on the goal—but wrong on the approach? When does pressure become counterproductive? The final stretch turns inward, as John details allegations of digital sabotage inside the Colorado GOP following a leadership change. Deleted accounts, exported data, withheld credentials—was this routine, or a deliberate attempt to erase institutional memory? And if so, does it rise to legal action? Guest Timestamps * Jody Weiss - 1:08 HOUR 3 Hour 3 opens with John, Andy, and Charlie confronting fear-driven narratives around AI and robotics. Is technology the real threat—or is it declining productivity and work ethic? John argues AI isn't “end times,” but a necessity for competitiveness, warning that nations who fall behind will pay an economic price. If jobs are changing, is that because of machines—or because culture and education are failing workers? The hour then pivots to a jaw-dropping immigration fraud exposé tied to an undercover investigation reported by Townhall Magazine. Andy details allegations of handlers coaching illegal immigrants on how to lie for asylum, extorting monthly payments, and even bribing immigration judges—suggesting a nationwide, billion-dollar criminal enterprise embedded across communities. Finally, the discussion widens to DOJ priorities. Why, the hosts ask, are people fixated on releasing Epstein files when Pam Bondi faces an unprecedented, active enforcement crisis involving gangs, fraud, and overwhelmed ICE operations? The hour closes with a sobering challenge: are Americans focused on yesterday's scandals because they don't grasp the scale of today's emergency?
Big questions. High stakes and Consequences Reaching Far Beyond Colorado. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with urgency and sharp commentary as John Rush sets the tone: something feels off—and voters know it. From TABOR and taxes to crime, cost of living, and Colorado's political direction, the conversation asks hard questions about leadership and accountability in a blue-leaning state. The centerpiece of the hour is an extended interview with Jason Mikesell (https://www.mikesell4gov.com/), Republican candidate for Colorado governor. Mikesell lays out a strategy focused on electability, public safety, fiscal discipline, and kitchen-table issues, arguing that Republicans must win independents without abandoning core principles. Drawing on his law-enforcement and business background, he stresses leadership over ideology, law and order, and the need to resist California-style policies that raise costs and drive out jobs. John presses him on faith voters, government staffing, crime policy, and everyday regulations—from early prisoner releases to catalytic-converter mandates—that hit average Coloradans directly. The hour closes with candid analysis of the GOP field, movement politics vs. broad appeal, and why candidate choice—not just policy—may decide Colorado's future. Is TABOR the last guardrail? Can a “dark horse” win where others failed? And what issues actually move swing voters right now? Guest Timestamp * Jason Mikesell - 11:04 HOUR 2 Hour 2 intensifies quickly as John and Andy tackle law and order, political strategy, and internal GOP turmoil. The hour opens with a hard-hitting interview featuring Jody Weiss, former FBI agent and former Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Weiss breaks down the Minnesota church disruption, explaining why claims of “free speech” don't apply on private property and why existing federal laws could—and should—be enforced. How long can ICE operate while under siege, and what happens when local officials refuse to cooperate? The conversation then pivots to optics and strategy, questioning whether aggressive tactics on ICE, Greenland, and even Jerome Powell are helping or hurting the broader mission. Is President Trump right on the goal—but wrong on the approach? When does pressure become counterproductive? The final stretch turns inward, as John details allegations of digital sabotage inside the Colorado GOP following a leadership change. Deleted accounts, exported data, withheld credentials—was this routine, or a deliberate attempt to erase institutional memory? And if so, does it rise to legal action? Guest Timestamps * Jody Weiss - 1:08 HOUR 3 Hour 3 opens with John, Andy, and Charlie confronting fear-driven narratives around AI and robotics. Is technology the real threat—or is it declining productivity and work ethic? John argues AI isn't “end times,” but a necessity for competitiveness, warning that nations who fall behind will pay an economic price. If jobs are changing, is that because of machines—or because culture and education are failing workers? The hour then pivots to a jaw-dropping immigration fraud exposé tied to an undercover investigation reported by Townhall Magazine. Andy details allegations of handlers coaching illegal immigrants on how to lie for asylum, extorting monthly payments, and even bribing immigration judges—suggesting a nationwide, billion-dollar criminal enterprise embedded across communities. Finally, the discussion widens to DOJ priorities. Why, the hosts ask, are people fixated on releasing Epstein files when Pam Bondi faces an unprecedented, active enforcement crisis involving gangs, fraud, and overwhelmed ICE operations? The hour closes with a sobering challenge: are Americans focused on yesterday's scandals because they don't grasp the scale of today's emergency?
Big questions. High stakes and Consequences Reaching Far Beyond Colorado. Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com opens with urgency and sharp commentary as John Rush sets the tone: something feels off—and voters know it. From TABOR and taxes to crime, cost of living, and Colorado's political direction, the conversation asks hard questions about leadership and accountability in a blue-leaning state. The centerpiece of the hour is an extended interview with Jason Mikesell (https://www.mikesell4gov.com/), Republican candidate for Colorado governor. Mikesell lays out a strategy focused on electability, public safety, fiscal discipline, and kitchen-table issues, arguing that Republicans must win independents without abandoning core principles. Drawing on his law-enforcement and business background, he stresses leadership over ideology, law and order, and the need to resist California-style policies that raise costs and drive out jobs. John presses him on faith voters, government staffing, crime policy, and everyday regulations—from early prisoner releases to catalytic-converter mandates—that hit average Coloradans directly. The hour closes with candid analysis of the GOP field, movement politics vs. broad appeal, and why candidate choice—not just policy—may decide Colorado's future. Is TABOR the last guardrail? Can a “dark horse” win where others failed? And what issues actually move swing voters right now? Guest Timestamp * Jason Mikesell - 11:04 HOUR 2 Hour 2 intensifies quickly as John and Andy tackle law and order, political strategy, and internal GOP turmoil. The hour opens with a hard-hitting interview featuring Jody Weiss, former FBI agent and former Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Weiss breaks down the Minnesota church disruption, explaining why claims of “free speech” don't apply on private property and why existing federal laws could—and should—be enforced. How long can ICE operate while under siege, and what happens when local officials refuse to cooperate? The conversation then pivots to optics and strategy, questioning whether aggressive tactics on ICE, Greenland, and even Jerome Powell are helping or hurting the broader mission. Is President Trump right on the goal—but wrong on the approach? When does pressure become counterproductive? The final stretch turns inward, as John details allegations of digital sabotage inside the Colorado GOP following a leadership change. Deleted accounts, exported data, withheld credentials—was this routine, or a deliberate attempt to erase institutional memory? And if so, does it rise to legal action? Guest Timestamps * Jody Weiss - 1:08 HOUR 3 Hour 3 opens with John, Andy, and Charlie confronting fear-driven narratives around AI and robotics. Is technology the real threat—or is it declining productivity and work ethic? John argues AI isn't “end times,” but a necessity for competitiveness, warning that nations who fall behind will pay an economic price. If jobs are changing, is that because of machines—or because culture and education are failing workers? The hour then pivots to a jaw-dropping immigration fraud exposé tied to an undercover investigation reported by Townhall Magazine. Andy details allegations of handlers coaching illegal immigrants on how to lie for asylum, extorting monthly payments, and even bribing immigration judges—suggesting a nationwide, billion-dollar criminal enterprise embedded across communities. Finally, the discussion widens to DOJ priorities. Why, the hosts ask, are people fixated on releasing Epstein files when Pam Bondi faces an unprecedented, active enforcement crisis involving gangs, fraud, and overwhelmed ICE operations? The hour closes with a sobering challenge: are Americans focused on yesterday's scandals because they don't grasp the scale of today's emergency?
Longtime political consultant, and former Colorado GOP chair, Dick Wadhams joins Dan for two segments breaking down the state's governor's race with Greg Lopez now running as an independent, as well as his latest column on why Colorado unaffiliated voters are up for grabs in 2026.
Heidi Ganahl fills in for Dan and weighs in on the 2026 governor's race, having served as the Republican nominee for the office in 2022. Brita Horn, Colorado GOP chair joins the program with an update on upcoming activities - including the state assembly - after Rep. Scott Bottoms (R-15), a current candidate for governor, called into question the fundraising efforts of the party.Heidi also reveals a fun fact: Punk rocker Debora Iyall, lead singer of 80s new wave band 'Romeo Void,' is her sister-in-law. Ryan finds a couple of memorable songs from the group to play on the show.
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com kicks off with Andy Peth—joined by Luke Cashman and Tanner Coleman—for a fast, funny, and fiery hour that swings from Thanksgiving chaos to political shockwaves. Amid jokes about Vietnamese feasts, airport gravy smuggling, and hunting Thanksgiving dinner “bare-handed,” the trio dives headfirst into the escalating crisis in Chicago. What happens when a mayor calls law enforcement a “sickness” even after a woman is brutally attacked on a train? And what does it mean when a leader claims he's committed first to people who “look like” him? The hour then pivots to Marjorie Taylor Greene's sudden decision to leave Congress early. Is her claim about the “Epstein files” the truth—or a convenient cover? Andy breaks down the real timeline, the political rift with Donald Trump, and the surprising financial incentives baked into congressional retirement. A caller, Jim from Wellington, joins in to expose how congressional benefits work—raising deeper questions about insider trading, wealth-building, and who really profits in Washington. Packed with humor, sharp analysis, and provocative questions, Hour 1 sets the tone: nothing is off-limits, and everything is on the table. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason kicks off at full speed as Andy Pate teams up with Tanner Cole and NFL analyst Richard Rush for a rapid-fire Thanksgiving football extravaganza. Which teams will rise, and which will collapse under the weight of their own chaos? Will the Lions finally own Thanksgiving? Are the Chiefs unstoppable—or is Dallas ready to shock them? Can Joe Burrow ignite the Bengals, and are the Eagles crumbling from the inside out? Every matchup becomes a debate, every prediction swings with humor, and every punchline lands harder than a blindside blitz. But the hour isn't done. After the final pick is made, Jerzee Joe jumps in with sharp political commentary, exposing New York's fantasy-world promises of “free buses,” rent freezes, and wealth redistribution. What happens when leaders promise equality of outcomes instead of opportunity? And why does reality only show up after the election? Packed with jokes, bold takes, and thought-provoking questions, Hour 2 delivers nonstop energy—from the gridiron to government truths you won't hear anywhere else. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason erupts with political fire as Andy Peth welcomes guest Eli Bremer—a former Olympian, Air Force veteran, and one of Colorado's most controversial conservative voices. What begins as a critique of forced “unity” inside the Colorado GOP quickly transforms into a blistering exposé of power plays, purity tests, and the factions tearing the party apart. Why are certain insiders demanding unity only when they're the ones in charge? Who benefits when criticism is labeled “disunity,” and who gets silenced in the process? Andy and Eli dismantle the myth of “unity for unity's sake,” arguing that genuine teamwork requires shared purpose—not blind obedience. From fake Liberty Scorecards to performative purity, from sabotaged legislation to the Freedom Caucus blocking the repeal of Obamacare, Hour 3 pulls no punches. Is “voting your principles” noble—or is it a mathematical dead end that hands victory to the Left? And how many elections have been lost because conservatives chose symbolic purity over practical wins? Hour 3 is a fast-moving, high-stakes discussion about strategy, loyalty, results—and what the conservative movement must confront if it wants to win again.
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com kicks off with Andy Peth—joined by Luke Cashman and Tanner Coleman—for a fast, funny, and fiery hour that swings from Thanksgiving chaos to political shockwaves. Amid jokes about Vietnamese feasts, airport gravy smuggling, and hunting Thanksgiving dinner “bare-handed,” the trio dives headfirst into the escalating crisis in Chicago. What happens when a mayor calls law enforcement a “sickness” even after a woman is brutally attacked on a train? And what does it mean when a leader claims he's committed first to people who “look like” him? The hour then pivots to Marjorie Taylor Greene's sudden decision to leave Congress early. Is her claim about the “Epstein files” the truth—or a convenient cover? Andy breaks down the real timeline, the political rift with Donald Trump, and the surprising financial incentives baked into congressional retirement. A caller, Jim from Wellington, joins in to expose how congressional benefits work—raising deeper questions about insider trading, wealth-building, and who really profits in Washington. Packed with humor, sharp analysis, and provocative questions, Hour 1 sets the tone: nothing is off-limits, and everything is on the table. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason kicks off at full speed as Andy Pate teams up with Tanner Cole and NFL analyst Richard Rush for a rapid-fire Thanksgiving football extravaganza. Which teams will rise, and which will collapse under the weight of their own chaos? Will the Lions finally own Thanksgiving? Are the Chiefs unstoppable—or is Dallas ready to shock them? Can Joe Burrow ignite the Bengals, and are the Eagles crumbling from the inside out? Every matchup becomes a debate, every prediction swings with humor, and every punchline lands harder than a blindside blitz. But the hour isn't done. After the final pick is made, Jerzee Joe jumps in with sharp political commentary, exposing New York's fantasy-world promises of “free buses,” rent freezes, and wealth redistribution. What happens when leaders promise equality of outcomes instead of opportunity? And why does reality only show up after the election? Packed with jokes, bold takes, and thought-provoking questions, Hour 2 delivers nonstop energy—from the gridiron to government truths you won't hear anywhere else. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason erupts with political fire as Andy Peth welcomes guest Eli Bremer—a former Olympian, Air Force veteran, and one of Colorado's most controversial conservative voices. What begins as a critique of forced “unity” inside the Colorado GOP quickly transforms into a blistering exposé of power plays, purity tests, and the factions tearing the party apart. Why are certain insiders demanding unity only when they're the ones in charge? Who benefits when criticism is labeled “disunity,” and who gets silenced in the process? Andy and Eli dismantle the myth of “unity for unity's sake,” arguing that genuine teamwork requires shared purpose—not blind obedience. From fake Liberty Scorecards to performative purity, from sabotaged legislation to the Freedom Caucus blocking the repeal of Obamacare, Hour 3 pulls no punches. Is “voting your principles” noble—or is it a mathematical dead end that hands victory to the Left? And how many elections have been lost because conservatives chose symbolic purity over practical wins? Hour 3 is a fast-moving, high-stakes discussion about strategy, loyalty, results—and what the conservative movement must confront if it wants to win again.
Hour 1 of https://RushToReason.com kicks off with Andy Peth—joined by Luke Cashman and Tanner Coleman—for a fast, funny, and fiery hour that swings from Thanksgiving chaos to political shockwaves. Amid jokes about Vietnamese feasts, airport gravy smuggling, and hunting Thanksgiving dinner “bare-handed,” the trio dives headfirst into the escalating crisis in Chicago. What happens when a mayor calls law enforcement a “sickness” even after a woman is brutally attacked on a train? And what does it mean when a leader claims he's committed first to people who “look like” him? The hour then pivots to Marjorie Taylor Greene's sudden decision to leave Congress early. Is her claim about the “Epstein files” the truth—or a convenient cover? Andy breaks down the real timeline, the political rift with Donald Trump, and the surprising financial incentives baked into congressional retirement. A caller, Jim from Wellington, joins in to expose how congressional benefits work—raising deeper questions about insider trading, wealth-building, and who really profits in Washington. Packed with humor, sharp analysis, and provocative questions, Hour 1 sets the tone: nothing is off-limits, and everything is on the table. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason kicks off at full speed as Andy Pate teams up with Tanner Cole and NFL analyst Richard Rush for a rapid-fire Thanksgiving football extravaganza. Which teams will rise, and which will collapse under the weight of their own chaos? Will the Lions finally own Thanksgiving? Are the Chiefs unstoppable—or is Dallas ready to shock them? Can Joe Burrow ignite the Bengals, and are the Eagles crumbling from the inside out? Every matchup becomes a debate, every prediction swings with humor, and every punchline lands harder than a blindside blitz. But the hour isn't done. After the final pick is made, Jerzee Joe jumps in with sharp political commentary, exposing New York's fantasy-world promises of “free buses,” rent freezes, and wealth redistribution. What happens when leaders promise equality of outcomes instead of opportunity? And why does reality only show up after the election? Packed with jokes, bold takes, and thought-provoking questions, Hour 2 delivers nonstop energy—from the gridiron to government truths you won't hear anywhere else. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason erupts with political fire as Andy Peth welcomes guest Eli Bremer—a former Olympian, Air Force veteran, and one of Colorado's most controversial conservative voices. What begins as a critique of forced “unity” inside the Colorado GOP quickly transforms into a blistering exposé of power plays, purity tests, and the factions tearing the party apart. Why are certain insiders demanding unity only when they're the ones in charge? Who benefits when criticism is labeled “disunity,” and who gets silenced in the process? Andy and Eli dismantle the myth of “unity for unity's sake,” arguing that genuine teamwork requires shared purpose—not blind obedience. From fake Liberty Scorecards to performative purity, from sabotaged legislation to the Freedom Caucus blocking the repeal of Obamacare, Hour 3 pulls no punches. Is “voting your principles” noble—or is it a mathematical dead end that hands victory to the Left? And how many elections have been lost because conservatives chose symbolic purity over practical wins? Hour 3 is a fast-moving, high-stakes discussion about strategy, loyalty, results—and what the conservative movement must confront if it wants to win again.
Brita Horn, Colorado GOP chair, joins Dan for a conversation on next steps for state Republicans after chaos at the central committee meeting in September over whether candidates should be selected by open primary or by party elites at an assembly setting.Both sides claim win after chaotic Colorado GOP meeting to decide whether to cancel party's 2026 primary - Colorado PoliticsBoth Chicago's mayor, Brandon Johnson (D), and Illinois' governor, J.B. Pritzker (D), are vowing to obstruct ICE deportations of illegal aliens, but what do Chicago residents and Illinois citizens want?
I've got the latest GOP drama with Chair Brita Horn, Happy Cabrini/Columbus Day, and Colorado's drug caps kick in. Plus Ross Kaminsky pops in for an hour!
Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, it's a Special Session Special Episode Special! Again! And this time it's not even our fault! As the effects of the Big Bullshit Bill come into focus, Colorado has to cut ANOTHER billion dollars from the state budget on top of the billion dollars TABOR forced us to cut earlier in the year. Where will lawmakers find the money? Then, a Republican state representative leaked screenshots of a secret group chat (hey, weren't they not supposed to have those anymore?) to a reporter where other members were making sexist and racist comments about a Democratic colleague; is there no depth to the depravity of the Colorado GOP? Then, tariffs are both dumb as shit and super unpopular. That's it, that's the segment. And finally, brain worms are eating your vaccines; Gabe Evans is saving Medicaid by kicking everyone off it; and any Republican brave or stupid enough to have a town hall meeting is getting what they deserve. That's it for this episode! If you loved watching and/or listening to it as much as we loved recording it, you can thank us by subscribing to the pod wherever you listen, following us over on New Old Twitter AKA Bluesky, subscribing to our shiny new channel on YouTube, smashing that subscribe button on our Substack, and sharing this episode with your friends, your enemies, and your 8th favorite Member of Congress from Colorado! THANK YOU so much for listening, and we'll see you next time!
City Council voted to eliminate parking minimums this week — could this open the door for cheaper housing or just cause more traffic? Then, The Hornet announced it was closing after nearly 30 years on South Broadway. Was it rising rents, restaurant operation costs, or something else? At the same time, neighborhood businesses and residents will soon consider a special tax to pay for things like graffiti removal and private security in the hopes of helping South Broadway thrive. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories plus wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned Donald Shoup's work and his book, “The High Cost of Free Parking,” the new east security checkpoint at DIA, and the Colorado GOP's gross group chat about a colleague's attire. Bree discussed the time Big Lots left South Broadway, Tommy's Thai's GoFundMe, and Kyle Harris's reporting on Broadway for Denverite, which he discussed on our podcast. Justine talked about the gluten-free farmers market and the state's decision to ban the use of SNAP benefits to buy pop. What do you think about parking in Denver? Do we have too much or too little? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this August 8th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise
Upon her return from a family European vacation, Heidi Ganahl laments parking at Denver International Airport - as a suggestion arrives from an unexpected source.Heidi also leans into Ryan for potential solutions for the Colorado Republican party on potentially winning statewide elections.
Guests, Hope Scheppelman and Kerry Lutz, unity of the Colorado GOP, Financial Survival, and predictable immigration riots PROMO: Former CO GOP Vice Chair and MAGA hero Hope Scheppelma. to take on RINO Tep. Jeff Hurd in the 2026 CD3 primary. Plus her insights on the new “unity” chair of the CO GOP crashing and burning. And Kerry Lutz with the financial survival network explains TrumpGPT is more than ready for the predictable immigration riots.
We talk the importance of energy for human flourishing and how Colorado is making it unreliable and more expensive with Amy Oliver Cooke, Jack Corrigan joined us to talk about the firing of Bud Black and more reasons for the team's troubles. Should Trump take a plane from a country that funds terrorism, and the Hope Scheppleman, and Tom Bjorklund of the former Colorado GOP leadership team says they are being unfairly criticized by new leadership.
Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams has dealt with the criminal illegal alien crisis first-hand, he fills in for Dan and offers his law enforcement perspective on tackling the issue head-on.Tom Bjorklund, former Colorado GOP treasurer attempts to explain where the discrepancies in state party funding began - and where all the money went.
Is it normal for Colorado GOP party leadership to spend down the money they've raised, rather than hand it over to the incoming administration? Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams asks former state chair Dick Wadhams about this ethical matter.Weld County district attorney Michael Rourke joins his law and order counterpart to discuss the dire implications of Senate Bill 25-776 designed to offer further sanctuary protections to illegal aliens in Colorado.
Continuing with Dick Wadhams and Sheriff Steve Reams on the FEC Filings. Then, some thoughts with Listeners on Reforming the Colorado GOP as well as Transgenderism. A varied hour of Topics! LINK: www.fec.gov/data/committee/C00033134 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
PEOPLE WANTED TRANSPARENCY FROM THE COLORADO GOP And unlike the last "leadership" group who made lots of accusation about the previous leadership and lots of noise about audits that would show malfeasance that never came, the new leadership of the Colorado GOP is leaning into full transparency. In an email sent to State Committee Members that was shared with me, they bring the receipts and I mean literally.
NEW COLORADO GOP CHAIR BRITA HORN TODAY AT 2:30 So I thought we'd be helpful and figure out what issues need to be top priority for Republican candidates in the upcoming election cycles. I have some ideas, as I'm sure you do, but they may not be MY pet topic, as I want the party to focus on issues that resonate with the tons of independents in Colorado. Get your thinking caps on.
Joe kicked things off by diving into Liberation Day, coming up on April 2nd, when Trump tariffs hit all foreign nations, projected to pull in a massive $600 billion for the Treasury General Fund. Joe highlighted how this signals good times ahead for our economy and even bigger wins for the nation. Next, Joe brought on a familiar guest, James McAndrew - lead singer of Milquetoast & Co. and chairman for House District 3 and Senate District 26. The duo zoned in on the Colorado GOP and the drama-packed Colorado GOP Gala, questioning why the party isn't focusing on real work instead. After James stepped off, Joe kept hammering the Colorado GOP for failing to represent the people. He spotlighted Tina Peters' case, insisting it needs more federal attention, touched on Dominion, and closed by debunking Jovan Pulitzer's claim that storing ballot copies in a datacenter costs tens of thousands monthly. Joe, a datacenter owner himself, called BS - he knows the real costs. Next up, tensions in Ukraine and Iran are rising. Ukraine has yet to reach a rare earth deal with the United States as their war rages on, and Iran is refusing to come to an agreement surrounding its nuclear weapons. Later, it's all about the news: Trump trolls a third term, Elon suggests we end the Fed, and Hegseth has vowed to make the military truly equal.
Ashe in America and Abbey Blue Eyes are joined by the Tattooed Teacher for a feisty and fearless episode of Alphas Make Sandwiches. Ashe shares her wild firsthand account of a Bannon event in Colorado, complete with bomb threats, drum circles, and a Nazi Karen sighting...before the trio dives into the current civil war inside the Colorado GOP. Tattooed Teacher then leads a fiery deep-dive into the history and corruption of the Department of Education, Trump's plans to dissolve it, and why real reform must come from local control. But it doesn't stop there. Abbey uncovers some seriously creepy patents on Apple's AirPods, revealing how they can measure everything from brain waves to emotional reactions. Are we all being emotionally profiled through our earbuds? You might want to dig out those wired headphones. Packed with laughs, truth bombs, and righteous rage, this is one of the sharpest and sassiest AMS episodes yet.
Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast the race for the worst job in Colorado politics is back on! Who among us gets to be the next Chair of the Colorado GOP? Then, who wants to Chuck…Schumer? It could start with one of Colorado's Senators. And finally, our least favorite member of congress from the 8th congressional district continues to follow in the footsteps of Former U.S. Senator Cory Gardner in his quest to be "Former Member of Congress Gabe Evans."But first, we take a trip back in time and a trip to visit our neighbor in the north. That's right, "Canadian Jason Bane" is BACK on the pod after a four year hiatus. We ask if his move to Canada after the first Trump election in 2016 was a good choice in retrospect, and if Canada is still accepting American applicants!
Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, new polling shows Americans are already sick of Trump 2.0; will shutting down FiveThirtyEight so nobody can get a good polling average help or hurt the 45th and 47th president and his flagging ratings? The White House is controlled by Republicans. The senate is controlled by Republicans. The House of Representatives is controlled by Republicans. The New York Times asks, 'Why won't Democrats stop the government shutdown?' Next, there is some real pain in store for the constituents of our favorite bread sandwich from Colorado's 3rd congressional district; will Rep. Jeff Hurd stand with the tens of thousands of people in his district who have healthcare because of Medicaid expansion, or will he side with Elon Musk and Donald Trump to kick them off their insurance and doom their rural hospitals to bankruptcy? Finally we check in with the most anti-family political party in the country, the Colorado GOP. But first...he was the first officially announced candidate for Colorado Attorney General! He's also the Boulder County District Attorney, and a former deli worker otherwise known as Colorado's Harvey Dent (but with just the one face). Michael Dougherty joins us to talk about his campaign to be the state's top cop in 2026.
Happy Friday! Joe Oltmann is joined today by Ike McCorkle, a Democratic congressional candidate from Colorado. Together, they explore what it means to bridge the gap between the so-called left and right, and how these divisions ultimately harm the people while benefiting the elite. But that's not all—Trump is making moves, working to repair our deeply broken economy and nation, while his team strives to restore their departments. And sometimes, you just have to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all, so join us for a bit of humor too. All this and more on today's Untamed.
Brita Horn is driven to service. For 17 years she has served as the Rock Creek Volunteer Fire Department Chief. She serves in the Colorado GOP and is currently running to be the State GOP Chairman.
Y'ALL, ANOTHER DUMPSTER FIRE FROM THE COLORADO GOP This is all so, so stupid. I've got Brita Horn on the show at 12:30 to discuss the lawfare tactics current party leadership learned from Joe Biden and her excellent plan for the Colorado GOP, which you can find here.
It's Monday, and Joe absolutely crushed it today. Here's the rundown: First up, Joe kicked things off with a fiery take on the new Deputy Director of the FBI… none other than Dan Bongino! Let's just say Adam Schiff and his buddies are probably sweating bullets right now. With a rock-solid leadership team stepping into the FBI, there's real hope that the agency might finally get the overhaul it's been begging for—less political nonsense, more justice. And who knows? Maybe Dan Bongino will spill the tea on what he really witnessed back in Obama's Secret Service days. Then, Joe brought on the fantastic Darcy Schoening. Together, they tackled some big topics: the troubling coercion of minors into gender reassignment, the latest scoop from the Colorado GOP, and, of course, all things Trump. It was a deep dive you won't want to miss. But the excitement didn't stop there! Joe also broke down the buzz around tariffs, spotlighted some savvy investments coming to the U.S., and celebrated the uptick in American jobs. Good news worth hearing! Missed it live? Don't worry—watch the full episode linked below and see what all the hype's about. Trust us, you'll want to be in the loop!