Podcasts about congressional

 A 1964 speech by author John StormerA description of the book:None Dare Call It Treason is a careful compilation of facts from hundreds of Congressional investigations of communism and dozens of authoritative books on the communist-socialist conspiracy to enslave America. It dissects the failures of the Eisenhower Administration just as effectively as it details the blunders of Roosevelt, Truman, Kennedy and Johnson. It documents the concurrent decay in America's schools, churches, and press which has conditioned the American people to accept 20 years of retreat in the face of the communist enemy. You won't finish None Dare Call It Treason without concluding that America is in serious trouble.Camp Constitution is a New Hampshire based charitable trust.  We run a week-long family camp, man information tables at various venues, have a book publishing arm, and post videos from our camp and others that we think are of importance. Please visit our website www.campconstitution.net

Battling an oncoming cold, we—by which I mean me—present our Boxing St. Stephen Day extravaganza! Despite the cold, I couldn't stay away from our preferred form of social media. And neither could "our president." Two hundred or so unhinged wackadoodle posts for Christmas. And a bombing! The netroots lost an OG over the holiday, too. Howie Klein, known to us as the proprietor of Down With Tyranny! passed away. Turns out (as if we didn't know), he was known to most others for his lifetime in the music biz. The Epstein Files situation continues to snowball. Today's focus: the lawyers involved in Epstein's sweetheart deal in his first "incarceration." Sweetheart doesn't even begin to describe it, though. Heading into the weekend, we rounded up backgrounders and primers on new entrants into the Trump World Rogues' Gallery and other Things You Need to Know. First up: the Ellison boys, their billions, and how they'll use them to ruin everything. Next, the Congressional watchdogs at the General Accounting Office (GAO). Mostly asleep on the job lately, but at least they're on the job. For another three days, anyway. And who are the GAO folks supposed to be keeping an eye on, exactly? The White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB). You know. Russell Vought. Here's more we need to know about that guy.

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating over 14 years broadcasting on the internet. On Friday's show, we visit with Senior Legal Fellow William Yeatman with the Pacific Legal Foundation about Congressional spending bills, Obamacare subsidies, and legislative challenges going in to 2026. We visit with Senior Economist with the Competitive Enterprise Institute Ryan Young about inflation, unemployment, tariffs, and the economic outlook for 2026. We visit with Landmark Legal Foundation Vice President Michael O'Neill about the Supreme Court's decision to preclude the use of the National Guard in Illinois. We also discuss our gratitude for the current direction of the country with Endowed Professor at the University of. Houston Larry Bell. We have terrific guests on Monday's show including historian Marc Schulman and author Jim McTague. Access this or past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating over 14 years broadcasting on the internet. On Friday's show, we visit with Senior Legal Fellow William Yeatman with the Pacific Legal Foundation about Congressional spending bills, Obamacare subsidies, and legislative challenges going in to 2026. We visit with Senior Economist with the … The post Gratitude Going in to 2026 appeared first on Bob Harden Show.

Did you ever meet someone and say to yourself, "Man, I'd really like to have that guy or that gal representing me in Congress?Meet retired Army Brigadier General and Georgia cattle rancher Shawn Harris. Shawn is running to represent the people of Georgia's 14th Congressional district, the seat currently being occupied by Marjorie Taylor Greene. With a 40 year career of public service/military service, Shaw is exactly the kind of person we need serving the American people in the people's house - the House of Representatives. Here's Glenn's extended conversation with candidate Shawn Harris.Support Shawn at: https://www.shawnforgeorgia.com/Find Glenn on Substack: glennkirschner.substack.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Security Hour with Blanquita Cullum – Ethiopia, one of the world's oldest Christian nations, faces escalating violence targeting believers and sacred institutions. As instability spreads across the Horn of Africa, concerns grow over terrorism, foreign influence, and human rights abuses. Congressional action highlights why Ethiopia's crisis matters to global security, faith communities, and U.S. strategic interests today...

Did you ever meet someone and say to yourself, "Man, I'd really like to have that guy or that gal representing me in Congress?Meet retired Army Brigadier General and Georgia cattle rancher Shawn Harris. Shawn is running to represent the people of Georgia's 14th Congressional district, the seat currently being occupied by Marjorie Taylor Greene. With a 40 year career of public service/military service, Shaw is exactly the kind of person we need serving the American people in the people's house - the House of Representatives. Here's Glenn's extended conversation with candidate Shawn Harris.Support Shawn at: https://www.shawnforgeorgia.com/Find Glenn on Substack: glennkirschner.substack.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Multi-platinum recording artist Clay Aiken is back with a stunning new version of the Bing Crosby classic "Do You Hear What I Hear?," the first single from his highly anticipated Christmas album Christmas Bells are Ringing, set to be released on November 22nd. Aiken's unique interpretation infuses the classic carol with his signature vocal warmth and emotional depth making it a song for our times. Written in 1962 by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" is timeless in its message, yet even more resonant today. Aiken reflects, "The whole American political climate over the past few years hasn't really given us much in the way of hope or optimism. As much as I wanted to believe I might be able to make some positive change in that world, I've realized that music often does a better job of that." Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Ron Fair, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" is the first release from Aiken's first studio album in over a decade, following a hiatus from music which found Aiken running for Congressional office in North Carolina, and raising his now teenage son. The album, Christmas Bells are Ringing, marks a return to the holiday music that solidified Aiken's place as a household name in 2004, when his debut holiday album Merry Christmas With Love broke records, selling nearly 300,000 copies in its first week. That album went platinum, becoming the best-selling holiday album of 2004 and earning Aiken three Billboard Music Awards.The new record boasts fresh takes on holiday staples like Nat King Cole's "Caroling, Caroling" and Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime", as well as a lush reinvention of "Merry Christmas, Darling" by the Carpenters (one of Clay's musical inspirations) and a show-stopping rendition of "Pure Imagination" which reimagines the Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory classic as a fitting soundtrack for the holiday season. Clay Aiken's rise to stardom began in 2003 as the runner-up on season two of American Idol. His debut single, "This Is the Night" debuted at #1 on Billboard's Hot 100, while his debut album Measure of a Man was certified triple platinum. Aiken has since sold millions of albums, launched national tours, starred on Broadway, and made his mark as a philanthropist and politician.Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Merry Christmas With Love, Clay Aiken's new album, Christmas Bells are Ringing' promises to bring the same joy and spirit to listeners, making it the perfect soundtrack for the 2024 holiday season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: Congressional candidate (TX19) and Lubbock Co. Commissioner Jason Corley talks about his reinstatement to office by a court on Friday and the appellate court rejecting his tormentors appeal this morning. It's all a glimpse into why the Bowtie Bully Curtis Parrish should not hold any elected office.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Oil and gas drilling rig count. Another mall bump up this past week.All the Texas high school football champions.Trump switches endorsement from Mayra to Eric in the GOP battle for TX34 where Republicans hope to beat liberal U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez in the Rio Grande Valley next fall.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

A new presidential administration does not typically mean new management at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, but typically the incumbent FBI director did not oversee the FBI when it raided the President-elect's house. Given that fact and other standing disputes with the Bureau, it is not surprising that President-elect Donald Trump and Senator Chuck Grassley have informed FBI Director Christopher Wray that he does not have the confidence of both the incoming administration and the incoming Senate majority. President-elect Trump has announced his intention to nominate Kash Patel, a former Congressional staffer and national security staffer in the first Trump administration, to replace Wray. Here to discuss how the FBI got here and where it might go in the next administration is our colleague, Ken Braun.Links: Pursuing the FBI's “Wicked” Russiagate PerpsThe FBI's Bad Apples: The Bureau's Worst Days Are Worth RememberingMatt Taibbi: Kash Patel was totally vindicatedFederal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)Follow us on our socials: Twitter: @capitalresearchInstagram: @capitalresearchcenterFacebook: www.facebook.com/capitalresearchcenterYouTube: @capitalresearchcenter

With all of the attention the UFO (UAP) Disclosure movement has been getting lately, it occurred to me that there are still many out there who haven't followed the topic enough in years past to realize just how much information (whether legitimate or not) has already been released about what they are now calling, "The Legacy Program". There have been some very heavily credentialed whistleblowers in the past who have given some stunning testimony. Of these old disclosures, two that have always stood out in my mind are thevtstimonies of Bob Lazar and Boyd Bushman. In this double-feature, first we have the original Bob Lazar tapes, followed by the "deathbed confession" of Lockheed scientist, Boyd Bushman. The Lazar Tapes were made in the very early 1990s, while Bushman's testimony was recorded shortly before his death in 2014. Much of what these two have previously revealed has now been seriously discussed and validated in Congressional hearings starting in the summer of 2023. Is UFO Disclosure just around the corner? I leave it to the discernment of the viewer to decide what is correct and what is incorrect. These ideas are worthy of consideration...www.alchemicaltechrevolution.comMake a donation to the broadcast here:https://buymeacoffee.com/alchemicaltechrevolutionBuy my new book here:https://www.amazon.com/Enoch-Polarity-End-Time/dp/B0G52BZ1L1

This Day in Legal History: Federal Reserve ActOn December 23, 1913, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Federal Reserve Act into law, creating the Federal Reserve System, the central banking system of the United States. The law was the culmination of decades of debate over banking reform, intensified by the financial panic of 1907. The Act aimed to provide the country with a safer, more flexible, and more stable monetary and financial system. It established twelve regional Federal Reserve Banks overseen by a central Board in Washington, D.C., striking a balance between public oversight and private banking interests.The Federal Reserve was given key powers, including the ability to issue Federal Reserve Notes (now the dominant form of U.S. currency), regulate banks, and serve as a lender of last resort during financial crises. This marked a significant shift from the fragmented and largely unregulated banking environment of the 19th century.Critics feared it concentrated too much financial power in the hands of a few, while supporters believed it brought necessary structure and national oversight. Over the decades, the Fed's role expanded, especially during the Great Depression, World War II, and more recently the 2008 financial crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. The creation of the Fed also represented a broader legal evolution in how the federal government engaged with economic policy.A coalition of 21 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Oregon to prevent the Trump administration from defunding the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The states argue that the administration's decision to stop requesting funds from the Federal Reserve is unlawful and undermines Congress's constitutional authority. Since returning to office in January, President Trump has taken steps to dismantle the CFPB, including appointing his budget director, Russell Vought, as acting head and halting most agency operations.The CFPB was created in 2011 to safeguard consumers in the financial sector and has recovered over $21 billion for Americans. It is uniquely funded directly by the Federal Reserve rather than through Congressional appropriations. The administration claims the Dodd-Frank Act requires the CFPB's funding to come from the Fed's combined earnings, which they argue are unavailable due to the Fed operating at a loss since 2022.The lawsuit highlights that the CFPB is legally required to process consumer complaints from states, and without funding, it cannot fulfill this duty. Plaintiffs also contend that the administration's move violates the separation of powers by interfering with a congressionally established funding mechanism. Additional lawsuits from a federal employee union and nonprofits are pending in other courts, also seeking to compel the agency to resume funding requests.Democratic-led states sue to block US consumer watchdog's defunding under Trump | ReutersA new push by the Trump administration to challenge corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) faces steep legal hurdles. Under EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas, the agency is shifting toward what she calls a more “conservative view of civil rights,” focusing on potential discrimination against white men. Lucas has announced plans to investigate corporate DEI policies and pursue enforcement where race- or sex-based decisions are suspected.However, legal experts emphasize that proving such claims is difficult. Discrimination cases require clear evidence that someone was denied a job or benefit specifically because of their race or sex, not just because they were part of a changing applicant pool. Critics argue that the administration's narrative misunderstands the legal and practical realities of workplace diversity, which is often designed to prevent discrimination, not perpetuate it.Despite aggressive executive orders targeting DEI, many companies are maintaining or quietly adjusting their programs to remain compliant. Legal audits and program rebranding are common, especially in industries like automotive. DEI advocates point out that the business case for inclusion remains strong, as companies see diverse teams as essential to long-term success.Ultimately, while the administration's rhetoric may galvanize parts of its base, experts say turning that rhetoric into enforceable legal action will be difficult under existing anti-discrimination laws.Trump's anti-corporate DEI campaign faces high legal hurdles | ReutersMercedes-Benz has agreed to pay $120 million to settle environmental and consumer protection claims brought by multiple U.S. states over its use of emissions-cheating software in certain diesel vehicles. The settlement resolves the remaining U.S. legal actions tied to the broader Dieselgate scandal, which has affected several automakers. The claims focused on Mercedes' BlueTEC diesel models, which were previously marketed as especially clean and advanced.As part of the agreement, Mercedes will continue retrofitting affected vehicles with approved emissions software. These additional updates are expected to cost the company tens of millions more. However, the company stated that its financial results won't be impacted, as it had already set aside sufficient funds to cover the settlement and associated costs.Mercedes reaches $120 million settlement with US states over emissions scandal | ReutersIn my column for Bloomberg this week, I argue that the IRS has a rare opportunity to repair its deeply flawed Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP), which has become so punitive and complex that it actively discourages taxpayers from coming forward. While the program is supposed to help bring people back into compliance, its current structure demands that taxpayers essentially confess to wrongdoing—sometimes criminal—in a sworn statement, without any assurance the IRS will even consider their disclosure.Recent proposed reforms introduce a more structured penalty system and eliminate the notorious “willfulness checkbox” from Form 14457, a small but significant change that previously forced taxpayers to admit to criminal conduct just to apply. Still, the process remains risky. The IRS continues to require extensive narratives of past noncompliance, and for taxpayers with crypto assets, the demands are even greater: wallet addresses, transaction hashes, and mixer use must all be disclosed upfront. That level of technical and legal exposure could deter even well-meaning taxpayers.I argue the IRS must go further. It should offer flexible payment options—like installment agreements or offers in compromise—and abandon its rigid “pay-in-full” approach. It should also adopt a tiered penalty framework that accounts for intent, scale, and the evolving complexity of assets like cryptocurrency. Finally, the IRS needs to delay the most invasive digital asset reporting until after a taxpayer has been preliminarily accepted into the program, rather than forcing exhaustive disclosures at the outset.Without deeper changes, the VDP risks continuing as a trapdoor rather than a lifeline—one that punishes honesty and rewards silence. The current moment of public review is the best chance to realign the program with its original purpose: restoring compliance, not burying it.The IRS Has a Chance to Fix Its Voluntary Disclosure Program This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Speaker Mike Johnson's decision to halt a vote on the Epstein documents resolution until after the August recess reeks of calculated obstruction. After initially posturing as someone open to transparency, Johnson pulled the plug the moment bipartisan momentum began building. His excuse—that Republicans should allow the administration space to act—is a transparent smokescreen. What he really did was take the one mechanism Congress had to demand accountability and neutralize it with a procedural timeout, shielding powerful interests from public scrutiny under the guise of calendar logistics.This wasn't about timing—it was about shielding. With bipartisan pressure mounting and the public overwhelmingly demanding the release of Epstein's records, Johnson didn't just pump the brakes—he pulled the entire emergency lever. Rather than allow a debate that might force uncomfortable truths into the light, he chose to grind the House to a halt. He suspended votes, sidelined committees, and essentially shut the door on any chance of real legislative movement. to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Johnson shuts door on House vote before September on releasing Epstein files | CNN PoliticsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

MEDIA COVER-UPS AND THE LADIES' ROOM DISCOVERY Colleague Craig Unger. Unger recounts how Newsweek and a Congressional investigation suppressed the story, dismissing the "October Surprise" as a myth. Despite warnings from Seymour Hersh, Unger and reporter Bob Parry persisted, eventually discovering a massive cache of discarded evidence hidden inside a House office building restroom, reigniting the investigation into the alleged treason. NUMBER 4

SHOW 12-18-25 THE SHOW BEGINS IN DOUBTS ABOUT THE POTUS AT YEAR'S END... 1951 BALD EAGLE ALASKA CRUNCH EU SUMMIT DISCUSSES USING FROZEN RUSSIAN ASSETS FOR UKRAINE Colleague Anatol Lieven. The European Union is internally divided over seizing frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's war effort and reconstruction, a move requiring rule changes that some members resist. While the US proposes using these funds for post-war rebuilding, current plans risk spending the capital on immediate warfare, potentially undermining international financial trust. NUMBER 1 NATO AND EU SEEK DEFENSE FUNDS AMID FEARS OF RUSSIAN AGGRESSION Colleague Anatol Lieven. European nations like Finland are demanding funds to counter perceived Russian threats, despite a lack of historical aggression toward them. Lieven argues that plans to spend billions on tanks are misguided, as the Ukraine war demonstrates that expensive armor is easily destroyed by cheaper drones and defensive lines. NUMBER 2 CALIFORNIA JOB LOSSES AND CHINA'S ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN AMID RETAIL SEASON Colleague Chris Riegel. California's new wage mandates have triggered significant job losses in the fast-food sector, forcing operators to move to lower-tax states. Internationally, while China boasts of leads in AI and EVs, these sectors rely on unsustainable subsidies, masking a deep consumer recession and deflation in the property market. NUMBER 3 SPAIN'S GOVERNMENT MAINTAINS TIES WITH VENEZUELA DESPITE OPPOSITION Colleague Mary Anastasia O'Grady. The Spanish government under Pedro Sanchez maintains ideological and economic alliances with the Maduro regime, prioritizing political agendas over democratic ideals. Opposition figure Cayetana Alvarez de Toledo accuses former Prime Minister Zapatero of acting as an international agent for Maduro, facilitating the dictatorship's survival despite mass migration. NUMBER 4 CHINA'S SURREPTITIOUS SUPPORT KEEPS THE MADURO REGIME AFLOAT Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. China sustains the Maduro regime through loans, surveillance technology, and military equipment while bypassing sanctions to import Venezuelan oil. The state oil company, PDVSA, collapsed due to the purging of technical experts and lack of investment, forcing Venezuela to rely on Iranian engineers to maintain minimal production. NUMBER 5 VENEZUELA'S TRAGIC DECLINE FROM PROSPERITY TO AUTHORITARIANISM Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. Historical imagery reveals Venezuela's transformation from a prosperous, modern nation in the 1950s to a ruined state today. Deep inequality and corruption in the pre-Chavez era alienated the poor, allowing Hugo Chavez to capitalize on their frustration and dismantle the free market system, leading to the current crisis. NUMBER 6 ELECTIONS IN CHILE, PERU, AND HONDURAS SIGNAL REGIONAL SHIFTS Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. In Chile, José Antonio Kast's rise reflects a rejection of progressive policies and crime, favoring order and investment. Meanwhile, Peru faces political fragmentation and violence, Honduras struggles with electoral disputes, and Costa Rica appears poised to elect a pro-US candidate who aims to limit Chinese influence. NUMBER 7 ARGENTINA'S CREDIT RATING RISES AS BRAZIL FACES POLITICAL POLARIZATION Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. S&P upgraded Argentina's credit rating following Javier Milei's austerity measures, which have stabilized the currency and reduced inflation despite social costs. In Brazil, the reduction of Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence and his son Flavio's candidacy signal a continued, polarized struggle against Lula da Silva's agenda for the 2026 election. NUMBER 8 ROMAN KINGSHIP: FROM CITIZEN SELECTION TO THE IDEAL OF SERVICE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. Early Roman kings were selected by citizens based on merit rather than heredity, but figures like Servius Tullius began bypassing this consent. Conversely, Cincinnatus exemplifies the Roman ideal of service; he accepted absolute dictatorial power to save the state during a crisis, then immediately resigned to return to his farm. NUMBER 9 APPIUS CLAUDIUS CAECUS: INFRASTRUCTURE AND POLITICAL GENIUS Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. Appius Claudius Caecus transformed the Roman censorship office into a power base by building the Appian Way and appointing wealthy Italians to the Senate. As a blind elder statesman, he shamed the Senate into rejecting peace with Pyrrhus, insisting Rome must fight to maintain its dominance and ancestral legacy. NUMBER 10 ROME VS. CARTHAGE: DESTINY, TRAGEDY, AND THE CONSENSUS FOR WAR Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. The conflict between Rome and Carthage is symbolized by the tragedy of Dido, representing the incompatibility of their powers. Despite Hannibal's devastating victories, the Roman Republic prevailed through a political system that prioritized consensus and collective sacrifice, allowing them to endure immense losses without surrendering. NUMBER 11 THE GRACCHI BROTHERS AND THE RISE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN ROME Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. The Gracchi brothers introduced political violence to Rome, with Tiberius using populism to revive his career and Gaius acting as a true believer in reform. Their assassinations by the Senate marked a departure from peaceful republican norms, as the elite used violence to protect entrenched economic inequality. NUMBER 12 DISCOVERY OF GIANT RADIO GALAXIES AND SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLES Colleague Dr. Sabayashi Pal. Astronomers have discovered 53 giant radio galaxies, some 75 times larger than the Milky Way, powered by active supermassive black holes emitting radio jets. These ancient objects offer insights into galactic evolution, contrasting sharply with the Milky Way's smaller, dormant black hole that allows life to exist safely. NUMBER 13 INVESTING IN HUMAN INTELLECT OVER ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Colleague Dr. Sabayashi Pal. Given an unlimited budget, Dr. Pal would prioritize human resource development over new telescopes, proposing a space study institute in Africa to train experts. He argues that while AI is a useful tool, education is essential for humans to interpret data and appreciate the machinery rather than being replaced by it. NUMBER 14 EUROPE SCROUNGES FOR FUNDS AMID RUSSIAN ASSET DISPUTES Colleague Michael Bernstam. The UK threatens to seize proceeds from the sale of Chelsea FC for Ukraine aid, while the EU struggles to finance a $135 billion shortfall for Kyiv. European leaders propose leveraging frozen Russian assets for loans, but financial markets remain skeptical of the EU's ability to guarantee such debt. NUMBER 15 CONGRESSIONAL SPENDING AND THE REVERSE MIDAS TOUCH Colleagues Dave Hebert and Peter Earle. Hebert and Earle argue that Congressional spending exacerbates problems in education and healthcare by subsidizing demand while restricting supply through regulations. They contend politicians prefer "showy" supply-side interventions, like drug busts, over effective policies because the politics of appearing effective outweigh the economics of actual affordability. NUMBER 16

CONGRESSIONAL SPENDING AND THE REVERSE MIDAS TOUCH Colleagues Dave Hebert and Peter Earle. Hebert and Earle argue that Congressional spending exacerbates problems in education and healthcare by subsidizing demand while restricting supply through regulations. They contend politicians prefer "showy" supply-side interventions, like drug busts, over effective policies because the politics of appearing effective outweigh the economics of actual affordability. NUMBER 16 1936 FDR

Independent Veteran candidate, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, PhD, ultra-marathon champion, and living kidney donor Matt Cavanaugh is a damn impressive leader. And he joins Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff from Colorado's 5th district for an unfiltered, high-energy conversation on why “America is not okay” and why he believes voters are trapped in another “Alien vs. Predator” election where, if either major party wins, the people lose. From NORAD's backyard in the shadow of Pikes Peak, he makes the case that his home turf—majority independent, home to five military bases and Team USA—is the best district in America for an independent veteran Congressional candidate to break through.​ Cavanaugh explains why his campaign logo features a buffalo and how American bison running straight into the storm became his metaphor for political courage in a district that's ready to send an independent veteran to Congress. He tears into gerrymandering, shutdowns that burned billions, and a political class that left every newborn with six-figure national debt stapled to their birth certificate, while calling for a new generation of “rational vertebrates” with the backbone to stand up for Article One of the Constitution.​ Matt and Paul also fly into Matt's living kidney donation—why he voluntarily gave a kidney at Walter Reed to a stranger in Seattle, how that transplant chain saved eight lives and saves taxpayers far more than it costs, and how serving others from combat to transplantation to running for office is his answer to these “times that try men's souls.” Paul opens the episode with a rapid-fire breakdown of Trump's marijuana order and “war dividend” troop checks, the Trump–Kennedy Center rename push, the rising risk of war near Venezuela, Ukraine's 1,390th day of full-scale war, and major movement on extremism inside the Coast Guard, plus culture, sports, and hope—from Avatar and SpongeBob to Football Friday picks, polar bears, skiing with kids, and New York City marathon memories. It's a fierce and fun way to close out a wild week.  Because every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories--and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It's independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve--and stay vigilant. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Learn more about his campaign for Congress. -Get a copy of his book Best Scar Wins and take a  minute and read more about his experience of becoming a kidney donor. -Learn more about Paul's work to elect a new generation of independent leaders with Independent Veterans of America. -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch now in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Amazon Podcasts  Ways to watch: YouTube • Instagram  X/Twitter • BlueSky • Facebook  Ways to listen:Social channels: Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Independent Veteran candidate, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, PhD, ultra-marathon champion, and living kidney donor Matt Cavanaugh is a damn impressive leader. And he joins Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff from Colorado's 5th district for an unfiltered, high-energy conversation on why “America is not okay” and why he believes voters are trapped in another “Alien vs. Predator” election where, if either major party wins, the people lose. From NORAD's backyard in the shadow of Pikes Peak, he makes the case that his home turf—majority independent, home to five military bases and Team USA—is the best district in America for an independent veteran Congressional candidate to break through.​ Cavanaugh explains why his campaign logo features a buffalo and how American bison running straight into the storm became his metaphor for political courage in a district that's ready to send an independent veteran to Congress. He tears into gerrymandering, shutdowns that burned billions, and a political class that left every newborn with six-figure national debt stapled to their birth certificate, while calling for a new generation of “rational vertebrates” with the backbone to stand up for Article One of the Constitution.​ Matt and Paul also fly into Matt's living kidney donation—why he voluntarily gave a kidney at Walter Reed to a stranger in Seattle, how that transplant chain saved eight lives and saves taxpayers far more than it costs, and how serving others from combat to transplantation to running for office is his answer to these “times that try men's souls.” Paul opens the episode with a rapid-fire breakdown of Trump's marijuana order and “war dividend” troop checks, the Trump–Kennedy Center rename push, the rising risk of war near Venezuela, Ukraine's 1,390th day of full-scale war, and major movement on extremism inside the Coast Guard, plus culture, sports, and hope—from Avatar and SpongeBob to Football Friday picks, polar bears, skiing with kids, and New York City marathon memories. It's a fierce and fun way to close out a wild week.  Because every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories--and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It's independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve--and stay vigilant. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Learn more about his campaign for Congress. -Get a copy of his book Best Scar Wins and take a  minute and read more about his experience of becoming a kidney donor. -Learn more about Paul's work to elect a new generation of independent leaders with Independent Veterans of America. -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch now in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Amazon Podcasts  Ways to watch: YouTube • Instagram  X/Twitter • BlueSky • Facebook  Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The US justice department has released hundreds of thousands of highly anticipated documents related to Jeffrey Epstein ahead of a Congressional deadline. The issue divided the Republican Party after the department initially refused to publish the files, despite President Trump's campaign promises.   Also in the programme: President Putin says Russia is ready to end the conflict in Ukraine, but only on his terms; and a comet, that's only the third known interstellar object to enter our solar system, is making its closest approach to Earth.Photo: One of the Epstein files released today in Washington, DC USA Credit: US Department of Justice

In this special round-robin episode, Podcast UFO host Martin Willis is joined by an exceptional panel to review one of the most consequential years in modern UFO/UAP history. Filmmaker Dean Alioto, Surprise guest, Matt Ford of The Good Trouble Show, UFO Jack, and Allie & Justin, hosts of UAP Society's UAP News Show, come together to discuss the major strides, controversies, and revelations that shaped the UAP conversation throughout 202 controversies, and revelations that shaped the UAP conversation throughout 2025. Topics covered include: Congressional hearings, whistleblowers, and renewed legislative efforts surrounding UAP disclosure Scientific re-evaluation of historical and modern UAP data Increased civilian and military reporting, including USOs The growing role of academia and independent research groups Media, documentaries, and the shifting public perception of UFOs Where the UAP conversation stands heading into 2026 This wide-ranging discussion brings multiple perspectives together—media, research, filmmaking, and analysis—to assess how far the subject has progressed and what unanswered questions remain. Whether you follow UFOs from a scientific, political, or cultural standpoint, this episode provides a comprehensive look at why 2025 may be remembered as a turning point in UAP history.YouTube Video

WMAL GUEST: SEAMUS BRUNER (Director of Research at the Government Accountability Institute) on Congress Debating a Ban on Congressional Stock Trading SOCIAL MEDIA: X.com/SeamusBruner READ: Pelosi Resisted Stock-Trading Ban as Wealth Grew, Fueling Suspicion Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Friday, December 19, 2025 / 8 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Criminal Procedure: May a presidential advisor ignore a Congressional subpoena on grounds of executive privilege? - Argued: Thu, 18 Dec 2025 17:59:18 EDT

Episode 422 of Boss Hog of Liberty is out! Jeremiah Morrell, Zach Burcham, and Bash Crider are our cohosts. The featured guest is Lauri Shillings is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Indiana Secretary of State. Her platform includes improving the state website and making it easier to interact with the office. She notes the differences between her vision for the office and the incumbent. The Secretary of State is the chief election officer, she weighs in on reports of illegal voting happening and the defeat of new Congressional maps. Bash Crider is involved with an effort to try to save the Church Street Gym and the old YMCA building. It is going to take some major capital improvements and $200,000 in operating expenses over the next four years. The final story is remembering NASCAR driver and Humanitarian Greg Biffle who tragically died in a plane crash this week in North Carolina. Biffle was a beacon of volunteerism after Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina in 2024. Our program is community supported on Patreon. Do your part by chipping into the cause by donating monthly at any level at ⁠www.patreon.com/bosshogofliberty⁠ and receive even more BONUS coverage and content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We welcome members of the VFW Washington Office for a roundtable on advocacy, benefits delivery, and showing up for veterans where it matters most. Leaders from National Legislative Service and National Veteran Service discuss how frontline experience shapes VFW's work on Capitol Hill. The episode opens with updates from recent VFW congressional engagement, including a House roundtable on veterans' data protection and claims fraud tied to predatory practices and AI-generated nexus letters. The panel also reviews Nancy Springer's recent testimony on more than two dozen veterans-related bills focused on benefits reform, appeals modernization, and expanded access to care. The conversation turns to the VFW's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program, highlighting how accredited service officers help transitioning service members avoid mistakes, overpayments, and fraud. Real-world examples show how early engagement protects long-term benefits, health care access, and financial stability. The episode also looks beyond policy to leadership and service, featuring reflections from a Medal of Honor reception ahead of the Army–Navy Game. Highlights from VFW's Army–Navy tailgates underscore how visibility and camaraderie help connect the next generation of veterans to the organization. Links referenced in the episode: Read Nancy's testimony: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/national-legislative-service/congressional-testimony/2025/12/pending-legislation-svac Watch the hearing: https://www.veterans.senate.gov/2025/12/hearing-to-consider-pending-legislation?fbclid=IwY2xjawOxO5pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFIOHZxd1c2MUR3bGxxYjdhc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhREq8WLceE7YTNMjQuhpHhC4OU5FaSX4MyRn0sYDFdH9CZ2NS42OBno2Zh5_aem_FbbWByegXlfHqXV-eRQO5Q Link to find a BDD rep: https://www.vfw.org/assistance/va-claims-separation-benefits/pre-discharge-locations-and-contacts   Episode Highlights: 0:00 Intro and Roll Call 4:43 House roundtable on AI, cybersecurity, and veterans' data protection 8:52 Congressional testimony on 24 veterans-related bills 15:12 Reforming missed exams, appeals, and access to care 24:41 VFW legislative priorities and concurrent receipt 31:20 Medal of Honor reception and leadership reflections 42:16 Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) explained 44:08 AI-generated claims, fraud risks, and nexus letters 50:21 How and where transitioning service members can find help 59:07 The partnership between National Legislative Service and National Veteran Service 1:00:12 Army–Navy Game tailgates and VFW visibility 1:15:30 Good of the Order – holiday reflections and closing thoughts For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Today's VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online  

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating over 14 years broadcasting on the internet. On Friday's show, we visit with Senior Legal Fellow William Yeatman with the Pacific Legal Foundation about Congressional spending bills, Obamacare subsidies, and the President's primetime speech. We visit with Senior Economist with the Competitive Enterprise Institute Ryan Young about inflation, unemployment, and the Fed's expansion of the money supply. We visit with Landmark Legal Foundation Vice President Michael O'Neill about the attacks at Brown University and in Brookline on the MIT Professor, and we discuss continuing lawfare against the Trump agenda. We also continue our discussion with Professor Larry Bell about Trump's candidates for “coal in their stockings.” We have terrific guests on Monday's show including historian Marc Schulman, AIER.org Senior Editor Jon Miltimore, and author Jim McTague. Access this or past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

Jack Smith just called Trump a “criminal” beyond a “reasonable doubt” in new Congressional testimony MAGA doesn't want you to hear. Trump's Federal Communications Czar got his political rear end handed to him today by Senate Democrats, so bad they had to change the FCC website after he testified! Convicted child sex trafficker and Trump crony, Ghislaine Maxwell, gets fired by her own attorney, but adds “jail house lawyer” to her many titles with a new filing, And Judge Hannah Dugan fights for her life in a Milwaukee federal jury trial against the rogue DOJ. All that and musings about recent FBI departures and strange interviews given by Trump top officials, on the top rated Legal AF podcast. Tonight, Popok is joined by Meidas favorite Dina Doll, sitting in for KFA. Sundays for Dogs: Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://sundaysfordogs.com/LEGALAF or use code LEGALAF at checkout. Jones Road Beauty: Use code LEGALAF at https://jonesroadbeauty.com to get a Free Cool Gloss with your first purchase! These sell out fast so get them while they last! #JonesRoadBeauty #ad Laundry Sauce: For 20% off your order head to https://LaundrySauce.com/LEGALAF20 and use code LEGALAF20 Cook Unity: Go to https://CookUnity.com/legalaffree for Free Premium Meals for Life! Learn more about the Popok Firm: https://thepopokfirm.com Subscribe to Legal AF Substack: https://substack.com/@legalaf Check out the Popok Firm: https://thepopokfirm.com Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show Burn the Boats: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 Political Beatdown: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a gloom-and-doomer, this isnt' your show. President Trump made history last night and it was as much what he said as it was the way he said it. Stigall has all the highlights of the speech and explains how some of his biggest critics (and not just on the left) wound up being useful dupes to get all eyes on him last night. Fani freaks out in Fulton County as she's forced to face the fleecing of the taxpayers in her fraudulent attempt to take President Trump down over phony charges of election interference. Meanwhile that repulsive Jack Smith is called to Capitol Hill to answer for his unlawful seizure of Congressional phone records, the Mar-a-lago raid, and more. Yael Eckstein visits to explain the charitable mission work of IFCJ - particularly poignant at this time of year and in this particular news cycle. -For more info visit the official website: https://chrisstigall.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisstigallshow/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisStigallFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.stigall/Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/StigallPodListen on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/StigallShowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four House Republicans sign a discharge petition introduced by Democrats to force a vote an extension of expiring Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits in defiance of the wishes of Republican Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA); House votes on a bill to criminalize providing gender-affirming care to minors; House votes on bill to prohibit the President Donald Trump from striking alleged drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific and carrying out military strikes against Venezuela without Congressional authorization under the War Powers Act; Senate passes the $900 billion National Defense Authorization Act, sending to the president to be signed into law; Senate also passes a bill to provision to reverse a provision in the NDAA concerning safe operation of military helicopters around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport; President Donald Trump delivers an address to the nation tonight from the White House; former special counsel Jack Smith testifies in closed session before the House Judiciary Committee, which is investigating his investigations of alleged criminal conduct of Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this full episode of LARRY, we discuss the BREAKING NEWS that CNN was forced to report the new inflation report that shows EXACTLY how President Trump has proved ALL of the experts DEAD WRONG, new data from CNN that reveals EXACTLY how screwed Democrats really are, the story of a marine whose fight to serve left him with scars that need Congressional legislation to change before they heal, and MUCH, much more! SHOP OUR MERCH: https://store.townhallmedia.com/ BUY A LARRY MUG: https://store.townhallmedia.com/products/larry-mug Watch LARRY with Larry O'Connor LIVE — Monday-Thursday at 12PM Eastern on YouTube, Facebook, & Rumble! Find LARRY with Larry O'Connor wherever you get your podcasts! SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7i8F7K4fqIDmqZSIHJNhMh?si=814ce2f8478944c0&nd=1&dlsi=e799ca22e81b456f APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/larry/id1730596733 Become a Townhall VIP Member today and use promo code LARRY for 50% off: https://townhall.com/subscribe?tpcc=poddescription https://townhall.com/ https://rumble.com/c/c-5769468 https://www.facebook.com/townhallcom/ https://www.instagram.com/townhallmedia/ https://twitter.com/townhallcomBecome a Townhall VIP member with promo code "LARRY": https://townhall.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aurelius Systems is tackling one of defense's most critical challenges: cost-effective counter-drone warfare. The company builds lightweight, edge-deployed laser weapon systems with 10-million-x marginal cost advantages over traditional interceptors—shooting down drones for approximately 10 cents versus $2 million per Sea Sparrow missile. With systems priced in hundreds of thousands rather than tens of millions of dollars, Aurelius is proving that commercial manufacturing principles can revolutionize defense technology. In this episode of BUILDERS, I sat down with Michael LaFramboise, CEO and Co-Founder of Aurelius Systems, to unpack how his background spanning automotive manufacturing at Chrysler, R&D at Coherent (the largest U.S. laser manufacturer), and defense sales positioned him to build what he calls "the F150 of directed energy systems." Topics Discussed: Why Michael's unusual combination of heavy industrial manufacturing, high-power laser R&D, and directed energy sales made him one of "probably like five people under 70 in the country" positioned to build this company Aurelius's contrarian R&D thesis: build everything from commercial off-the-shelf components first, only upgrading to bespoke when field tests fail The tactical fundraising progression: first prototype to pre-seed, DIU grant in February 2025, Singapore Defense Force joint challenge, Army X-Tech competition wins Government relations as infrastructure: why Aurelius retained a lobbyist six months post-pre-seed and how Congressional support addresses 1-3 year sales cycles Navigating the DOD acquisitions reorg: 100+ technology acceleration organizations consolidating to 10-20 under new PAE structure, with goals of 90-day turnarounds replacing multi-year cycles The demonstration strategy that changed everything: earning signed memorandums from high-ranking officers after shooting down drones in Hawaii and Austin under adversarial conditions (heavy rain, 99% humidity, heat warping, night operations) Founder-led marketing ROI: why acquisitions officers, funders, and engineering talent all follow different channels (LinkedIn vs. X) and require different voices The three-stakeholder sales complexity: when your end user (warfighter), purchaser (acquisitions), and budget authorizer (Congress) are separate entities who don't communicate GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Follow proven playbooks in specialized markets, then execute obsessively: Michael explicitly followed Anduril's early-stage defense playbook, particularly around government relations: "I think it's like following the Anduril playbook for how you do an early stage defense company is probably a very appropriate thing to do." In highly specialized B2B markets (defense, healthcare, financial services), pattern-match to companies that have successfully navigated regulatory and procurement complexity rather than inventing process from scratch. The differentiation comes from execution and technology, not from reinventing go-to-market structure. Treat specialized expertise as infrastructure, not overhead: Aurelius hired a lobbyist six months after their pre-seed—before significant revenue—because defense sales involve three disconnected stakeholders. Michael explained: "your purchaser, your end user, and your authorizer for funds are all separate people that don't know each other... whenever you have these different points, it doesn't expand linearly the difficulty or the complexity of the sales cycle. It expands exponentially." B2B founders should map stakeholder complexity early and staff accordingly. If your buyer doesn't control budget, your user doesn't make purchase decisions, or your champion needs internal air cover, these aren't edge cases—they're your sales model. Demonstration beats documentation when overcoming category skepticism: After decades of directed energy failures, Aurelius spent 2024 conducting nationwide field demonstrations, culminating in adversarial drone shoot-downs in heavy rain, 99% humidity, and night conditions. Michael noted they needed to "clean up the mess that a lot of these other companies have created" with signed memorandums from high-ranking officers. When your category has a failure history, customer education isn't about better pitch decks—it's about systematic proof that eliminates objections through witnessed performance. Plan for demonstration costs and timeline in your first-year budget. Build your R&D thesis around manufacturing reality, not engineering perfection: Aurelius's core principle: build everything from commercial off-the-shelf components, upgrading only when field tests fail. Michael's insight from automotive and laser manufacturing: "you can get 80-90% physics perfection on a system for 2% of the cost" versus traditional directed energy's approach of "400 ARL and AFRL PhDs all coming together to make the most super bespoke, hyper perfect thing ever." They use material processing lasers (identical output at 1/10th the cost of directed energy lasers) and commercial components from automotive supply chains. B2B founders should define their "good enough" threshold explicitly and build cost structure around it—perfection is often the enemy of scalability and margin. Attack market dislocations where wrong-fit solutions reveal unmet needs: Aurelius doesn't compete with Sea Sparrow missiles for shooting down aircraft at 9 miles—they target the dislocation where $2M missiles designed for large ordinance are being misused against $500 drones with 30% effectiveness. Michael identified that "there isn't anything in the market that's been developed for counter drone at any significant distance." The opportunity isn't better missiles; it's purpose-built solutions for Group 1 and Group 2 drones (FPV quadcopters and small planes) where no appropriate system exists. Map where customers are forced to use expensive, inappropriate solutions—that's where new categories emerge. //  Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role.  Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM

Congressional gridlock is setting the stage for a potential healthcare sticker shock as enhanced Obamacare subsidies face expiration, leaving millions bracing for higher premiums. California regulators then put Tesla on notice, threatening to suspend new-car sales over allegedly misleading “self-driving” claims. The hour also turns deeply personal as the children of filmmaker Rob Reiner speak publicly following the arrest of their brother in their parents’ murders, before closing with renewed hope in the decades-old JonBenét Ramsey case as investigators revisit evidence using modern DNA technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Possibly the longest shownotes in history thanks to Gemini 3 Pro. Bless the swamp from which this AI slop emerged and enjoy the episode. Or just read this, I suppose. The title sucks terribly. Do better, Gemmo! Show Notes with Time‑Shifted Timestamps(All timestamps below have been shifted forward by 25 seconds to allow for theme music, as requested.)00:00 – Welcome, Cricket and the Pink Ball at the Gabba00:00:25 – Jack the Insider (Joel Hill) opens episode 137 of The Two Jacks and notes they're recording just after midday on 4 December.00:00:36 – Quick chat about the looming day–night Test at the Gabba and the prospect it could finish very quickly.00:00:44 – Hong Kong Jack explains why dusk session timings in Hong Kong line up perfectly with “Asahi o'clock”.00:01:07 – The Jacks wonder which pink ball is in use – Duke or Kookaburra – and what that means for Mitchell Starc and the batters.00:01:30 – They flag that full cricket chat will come later in the episode.Tai Po Fire, Mourning and Accountability in Hong Kong00:01:53 – Jack the Insider pivots from sport to tragedy: an update on the Tai Po (Typo) fire in Hong Kong, now with 159 dead, from ages 1 to 97.00:02:07 – Hong Kong Jack describes the government‑ordered three‑day citywide mourning period, mass flower layings, official ceremonies and a three‑minute silence.00:02:35 – Discussion of schools cancelling Christmas parties and staff functions in solidarity; a sense the tragedy is being taken seriously across society.00:02:55 – Hong Kong Jack outlines the judge‑led inquiry: not only into the Tai Po fire's causes, but also systemic issues in building management and renovation contracts on large estates, with hints of corruption.00:03:30 – Evidence emerging that the green construction cloth lacked proper fire retardant and that flammable materials were used to seal lift wells, helping the fire move inside.00:04:23 – Bodies, including one man, found in stairwells and lobbies; Hong Kong Jack cautions against jumping to conclusions before investigators reconstruct the fire.00:04:53 – Arrest tally climbs to around 12, mostly consultants/contractors involved in management and renovations rather than labourers.00:05:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes large numbers of displaced residents in hotels and temporary accommodation and outlines generous government payments to families of foreign domestic workers killed (about HKD 800,000 per family).00:06:05 – A harrowing vignette: a Javanese truck driver receives a final phone call from his wife, trapped with her employers' baby, seeking forgiveness because there is no escape.00:06:35 – The Jacks reflect on the horror of the story and promise to revisit the inquiry as more facts emerge.Australia's Under‑16 Social Media Restrictions & VPNs00:06:50 – Jack the Insider turns to domestic Australian politics: the under‑16 social media restrictions about to kick in.00:07:05 – He notes overwhelming parental support (around 80%) but says the government is now “hosing down expectations” and reframing the policy as a long‑term “cultural change” effort.00:07:30 – Platforms not yet on the restricted list – Roblox and Discord – are flagged as problematic globally for child sexual exploitation, illustrating rollout gaps.00:08:05 – They discuss technical enforcement: existing account age data, length of time on a platform and the likelihood that some adults will be wrongly flagged but quickly reinstated.00:08:35 – Jack the Insider explains the government's theory of cultural change: a generation that grows up never having had TikTok or Instagram under 16 “won't know what they're missing”.00:09:00 – Hong Kong Jack compares Australia to mainland China's efforts to control the internet and points out China still can't stamp out VPN usage, predicting similar Australian difficulties.00:09:25 – Jack the Insider clarifies that VPNs are not illegal in Australia; about 27% of connected Australians already use one, probably now closer to a third.00:09:55 – He strongly recommends everyone use a VPN for privacy and location masking, and warns that good VPNs now explicitly advise not to choose Australia as an exit node because of the new regime.00:11:00 – They note that Malaysia and several European countries (Denmark, Spain, France and EU initiatives) are eyeing similar under‑age social media restrictions, with large fines (Australia's up to about AUD 50 million or 1% of turnover).00:12:20 – Meta is already scanning and booting under‑age users, but teenagers are sharing tips on evading age checks. Jack the Insider describes various age‑verification methods: selfie‑based AI checks, account age, and Roblox's move to ban under‑15s.00:13:45 – Anecdote about Macau security doing ID checks: Hong Kong Jack's son is checked for being over 21, while Jack's own age makes ID unnecessary—an amusing generational moment.00:14:55 – The Jacks agree the policy is unlikely to stop kids having TikTok accounts but might “nudge” behaviour toward less screen time.00:16:00 – Jack the Insider stresses the real dangers of the internet—particularly organised child sexual exploitation rings like the notorious “764” network—and questions whether blunt prohibition can solve these issues.Bruce Lehrmann, Appeals and Costs00:18:22 – They move to the Bruce Lehrmann defamation saga: his appeal has failed and he's likely millions of dollars in debt.00:18:45 – Discussion of the prospect of a High Court appeal, the low likelihood of leave being granted, and the sense that further appeals are “good money after bad”.00:19:22 – Jack the Insider notes outstanding criminal charges against Lehrmann in Toowoomba relating to an alleged statutory rape, and outlines the allegation about removing a condom after earlier consensual sex.00:20:07 – They discuss the probable difficulty of prosecuting that case, and then pivot to the practical question: who is funding Lehrmann's ongoing legal adventures?00:20:35 – Hong Kong Jack explains why some lawyers or firms may take on such cases for profile, despite poor prospects of payment, and they canvass talk of crowdfunding efforts.00:21:07 – The Jacks agree Lehrmann should have left the public stage after the criminal trial was discontinued; now, bankruptcy in 2026 looks likely.00:21:58 – Limited sympathy for Channel 10 or Lisa Wilkinson; more sympathy reserved for Brittany Higgins and Fiona Brown, who are seen as exceptions in an otherwise “pretty ordinary” cast.NACC, Commissioner Brereton and Conflicts of Interest00:23:24 – The Jacks turn to the National Anti‑Corruption Commission (NACC) and Commissioner Paul Brereton's side work for Defence.00:24:03 – Hong Kong Jack recounts Senate Estimates footage where officials first claimed Brereton's Defence consulting work occurred outside NACC hours, then later admitted more than ten instances (possibly close to 20) during NACC office time.00:25:25 – Discussion of conflict‑of‑interest: the Commissioner maintaining a paid Defence relationship while heading the body that may need to investigate Defence.00:25:57 – The Jacks question the tenability of his position, especially given the NACC's opaque nature, its minimal public reporting obligations and a salary around AUD 800k–900k plus expenses.The Struggling Australian and Global Economy, Productivity and ANZ00:26:20 – Jack the Insider outlines Australia's sluggish economy: inflation remains sticky, GDP growth is flat, and government spending is driving much of the growth.00:27:00 – They discuss a small, tentative rise in productivity (around 0.2% for the quarter) and the Treasurer's caution that productivity figures are volatile.00:27:57 – Hong Kong Jack stresses that historically, economies escape malaise through productivity‑driven growth; there is no easy alternative, in Australia or globally.00:28:23 – Broader global picture: the US isn't in outright recession but is crawling; Europe is sluggish; Poland is a rare bright spot but rapid growth brings its own risks.ANZ and Post‑Royal Commission Failures00:28:54 – Focus shifts to ANZ's continuing governance and compliance failures after the Banking Royal Commission.00:29:30 – Jack the Insider shares a personal story about dealing with ANZ's deceased estates department following his mother and stepfather's deaths and the difficulty in releasing funds to pay for funerals.00:30:20 – Justice Jonathan Beach's scathing remarks: ANZ is still mishandling deceased estates, charging fees and interest to dead customers, despite years of warnings.00:31:34 – They recall Royal Commission revelations about “fees for no service” and charging the dead, plus ANZ's recent exclusion from certain Commonwealth bond business due to rorting.00:32:12 – The Jacks see this as a clear culture problem: five years on, the basics still aren't fixed, suggesting inadequate investment in compliance and little genuine reform.UK Justice Backlog and Curtailing Jury Trials00:33:05 – The conversation moves to the UK's proposal to restrict jury trials for offences likely to attract less than a two‑year sentence.00:33:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes the English historical attachment to jury trials dating back to Magna Carta, and that defendants have long had the right to opt for a jury if imprisonment is possible.00:34:38 – Justice Minister David Lammy, once a fierce critic of similar Tory proposals, is now advancing the idea himself, creating a political shambles.00:35:02 – They weigh up pros and cons of judge‑only trials for complex financial crimes, where juries may struggle to follow long, technical evidence.00:36:10 – Jack the Insider points out that even judges can find such cases difficult, but there is at least some expertise advantage.00:36:22 – They revisit the Southport riots and harsh sentences for people inciting attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers, arguing that common‑sense community judgment via juries may be better in such politically charged cases.00:37:26 – Ultimately, they doubt the reforms will meaningfully reduce the UK's huge court backlog and see it as another noisy but ineffective response.Ethics in Politics, Misleading Voters and the “Ethics Czar” Problem00:39:21 – Discussion moves to the UK budget, alleged “black holes” and whether the Chancellor misled voters about a AUD 22 billion‑equivalent gap.00:40:14 – They examine calls for the Prime Minister's ethics adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, to rule on ministerial truthfulness, and Hong Kong Jack's discomfort with handing moral judgment to “anointed officials”.00:40:51 – The Jacks argue accountability should rest with Parliament and ultimately voters, not appointed ethics czars, whether in the Johnson era or now.00:41:36 – In Australia, Tony Burke's handling of “ISIS brides” returning to Australia is cited: he asked officials to leave a meeting so he could talk politically with constituents. The Jacks see this as legitimate hard‑headed politics in a very complex area rather than an ethical scandal.00:43:03 – Jack the Insider defends the principle that Australian citizenship must mean something, especially for children of ISIS‑linked families; stripping citizenship or abandoning citizens overseas can be a dangerous precedent.00:44:08 – Anecdotes segue into a broader reflection: politicians have always misled voters to some extent. They quote stories about Huey Long and Graham Richardson's defence of political lying.00:45:24 – They swap observations about “tells” when leaders like Malcolm Turnbull or Julia Gillard were lying; Scott Morrison, they say, had no visible tell at all.00:46:22 – Cabinet solidarity is framed as institutionally sanctioned lying: ministers must publicly back decisions they privately opposed, and yet the system requires that to function.Ukraine War, Peace Efforts and Putin's Rhetoric00:46:42 – The Jacks discuss reports of draft peace deals between Ukraine, the US and Russia that Moscow rejected over wording and guarantees.00:47:17 – Jack the Insider describes a gaunt Foreign Ministry spokesman, not Sergey Lavrov, delivering Russia's objections, sparking rumours about Lavrov's status.00:47:56 – Putin goes on TV to reassure Russians they're winning, threatens destruction of Europe if conflict escalates and claims territorial gains Russia doesn't actually hold.00:48:17 – Hong Kong Jack argues European fantasies of imposing a “strategic defeat” on Russia are unrealistic; retaking all occupied regions and Crimea would exact unbearable costs in lives and money.00:49:33 – The Jacks infer that Putin will eventually need to “sell” a negotiated deal as a victory to his own public; his current bluster is partly domestic theatre.00:49:50 – They note some odd, Trump‑like US talk of structuring peace as a “business deal” with economic incentives for Russia, which they find an odd fit for a brutal territorial war.Trump's Polling Collapse, Economic Credibility and 202600:50:13 – Attention turns to Donald Trump's polling in his second term: his net approval is negative across all major polls, in some cases approaching minus 20.00:51:04 – Jack the Insider highlights Trump's recent promises of USD 2,000 cheques to every American plus no income tax—claims they see as fantastical and electorally risky when voters inevitably ask “where's my money?”.00:51:39 – They compare Trump's denial of inflation and cost‑of‑living pressures to Biden's earlier mistakes in minimising pain; telling people “everything's cheaper now” when their lived experience contradicts that is politically fatal.00:52:34 – Hong Kong Jack notes history shows that insisting things are fine when voters know they aren't only accelerates your polling collapse.00:53:02 – They briefly touch on a special election in Tennessee: a safe Trump district where the Republican margin has shrunk. They caution against over‑reading the result but note softening support.00:54:14 – CNN's Harry Enten is quoted: this has been Trump's worst ten‑day polling run of the second term, with net approval among independents plunging to about minus 43 and a negative 34 on inflation.00:55:15 – They speculate about what this means for the 2026 midterms: Trump won't be on the ballot but will loom large. A future Republican president, they note, might still face governing without a Congressional majority.Disability, Elite Colleges and the Accommodation Arms Race00:56:07 – The Jacks discuss Derek Thompson's forthcoming Atlantic piece on surging disability registrations at elite US colleges: more than 20% at Brown and Harvard, 34% at Amherst and 38% at Stanford.00:57:10 – Hong Kong Jack explains how disability status yields exam and assessment advantages: extra time, flexible deadlines, better housing, etc., and why wealthy students are more likely to secure diagnoses.00:57:48 – They cite intake breakdowns at one college: small numbers for visual/hearing disabilities, larger numbers for autism, neurological conditions and especially psychological or emotional disabilities—suggesting a big shift in what counts as disabling.00:58:45 – Jack the Insider counters that many of these conditions were under‑diagnosed or ignored in the 1970s and 80s; growing recognition doesn't automatically mean fraud.00:59:40 – He brings in chronic conditions like ME/CFS: historically treated as malingering or “all in the head”, now increasingly accepted as serious and often disabling.01:00:02 – Hong Kong Jack quotes a Stanford professor asking, “At what point can we say no? 50%? 60%?”—underlining institutional concern that the system can't cope if a majority claim accommodations.01:01:05 – They wrestle with the employer's problem: how to interpret grades achieved with significant accommodations, and whether workplaces must also provide similar allowances.01:02:21 – Jack the Insider's answer is essentially yes: good employers should accommodate genuine disability, and it's on applicants to be upfront. He stresses diversity of ability and that many high‑achieving disabled people are valuable hires.01:03:40 – Hong Kong Jack remains more sceptical, shaped by long legal experience of people gaming systems, but agrees lawyers shouldn't be the priestly class defining morality.Cricket: India–South Africa, NZ–West Indies, BBL and the Gabba01:04:25 – They pivot back to sport: a successful South African tour of India, including a series win in Tests and a 1–1 one‑day series with big hundreds from Virat Kohli, Gaikwad and Aiden Markram.01:05:31 – Quick update on New Zealand's Test against the West Indies in Christchurch, with New Zealand rebuilding in their second innings through Ravindra and Latham.Women's Cricket and Phoebe Litchfield01:06:19 – Jack the Insider raves about the Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat game and singles out Phoebe Litchfield as the best women's batter in the world: technically sound, not a slogger, scoring “runs for fun” and hailing from Orange.Gabba Day–Night Test: Australia v England01:06:50 – With Usman Khawaja out, they discuss the unchanged 12 and whether Bo Webster plays, potentially pushing Travis Head up to open.01:07:39 – For England, Mark Wood hasn't recovered; they bring in Will Jacks, a batting all‑rounder and part‑time spinner, to bolster the order but lose their fastest bowler.01:08:11 – If you win the toss? Bat first, they say—if the conditions allow—and look to control the game with the bat for four hours or more.01:08:44 – They caution that with recent heavy Queensland rain, the pitch could be juicy whether you bat first or second; the key is getting cricket on Saturday.01:08:48 – Hong Kong Jack rates this as the best England attack to tour Australia in a long time, especially with Wood and Archer firing in Perth, although Archer's pace dropped markedly in the second innings.01:09:36 – They dissect England's first‑Test collapse: at one stage it was an “unlosable” match according to Ponting and the stats, but reckless strokes from set batters (Duckett, Pope, Root, Brook) handed it back to Australia.01:09:55 – Mitchell Starc's extraordinary home day–night record—averaging around 17 with the pink ball—looms as a big factor.Franchise Cricket, Empty Stadiums and Saving the Red‑Ball Game01:12:11 – Jack the Insider describes watching the ILT20 in the UAE: near‑empty stands, disengaged fielders and an overall “soulless” spectacle aimed solely at TV viewers in South Asia and the Gulf.01:13:49 – Despite his love of cricket, he worries this is a glimpse of the future if the longer formats aren't protected and nurtured. He pleads, in effect, for saving Test and other red‑ball cricket from being cannibalised by anonymous franchise leagues.Class and Cricket: Private Schools, Clubs and Stuart Broad01:14:11 – The Jacks explore the class divide in English cricket: all but one of England's Perth XI finished school at private schools; the sole exception is captain Ben Stokes, who grew up partly in New Zealand.01:15:05 – In contrast, Australia's pathway still runs largely through club cricket, though private schools with professional coaching (like Cranbrook) give some players a head start.01:15:47 – Jack the Insider notes Sam Conscientious (Sam Constance / Cummins reference is implied) spending two years at Cranbrook, reflecting how elite schools build academies with ex‑first‑class coaches that state systems can't match.01:16:20 – They agree state‑school kids like the Waugh twins still come through club cricket, but in England, some top private schools effectively operate as de facto county academies.01:17:31 – Anecdotes about Stuart Broad: a likeable “nepo baby” of former England player Chris Broad, who was toughened up by a formative season at Hoppers Crossing in Melbourne sub‑district cricket. Local players loved him.01:18:20 – Hong Kong Jack recommends Broad's appearance on The Front Bar as essential viewing for understanding his character and the cultural contrasts between English and Australian cricket.01:18:40 – More class culture: Chris Cowdrey, briefly England captain, shows up in full whites and blazer to toss with Viv Richards in surf shorts and thongs. When Cowdrey starts reading out England's XI, Viv cuts him off: “Mate, I don't care who you play, it's not going to make any difference.”F1, Oscar Piastri's Bad Luck and AFLW Glory01:21:11 – Brief detour to Formula 1: Oscar Piastri's season with McLaren seems dogged by terrible luck and questionable team decisions that have cost him a near‑certain championship.01:21:57 – Jack the Insider reflects on how F1 drivers like Piastri have effectively been in vehicles since toddlerhood, climbing the ladder from go‑karts to supercars.01:22:50 – They express hope he can clinch the title in the final race, but wryly note that F1 rarely grants fairytale endings.AFLW01:22:23 – AFLW: North Melbourne complete an undefeated season to win the premiership, comfortably beating Brisbane in the grand final.01:23:07 – Hong Kong Jack praises it as the best AFLW season yet, with marked improvement in depth and skill across the competition. North remain the benchmark everyone else must chase.Wrap‑Up, Tom Stoppard Anecdote and Season Timing01:23:49 – The Jacks look ahead to watching the Gabba Test, beers on ice for Jack the Insider and the late Hong Kong dusk session for Hong Kong Jack.01:24:01 – They note the death of playwright Tom Stoppard at 88 and share a favourite story: Spielberg offers him the Jaws screenplay; Stoppard declines because he's writing a play—“actually for BBC Radio”.01:25:11 – Final reflections on how Stoppard would have improved Jaws, then a note that the podcast will soon reach its final episodes for the year, with plans to feature listener feedback before a short summer break.01:25:56 – Jack the Insider signs off, thanking listeners and Hong Kong Jack, and promises they'll be back next week.

The Military Family Advisory Network is conducting its biennial survey to better understand the needs of military and veteran families worldwide. The stories shared through the survey lead to real change. The research has helped shape major policy and quality-of-life reforms, including the Military Housing Privatization Initiative's Tenant Bill of Rights and a Congressional quality-of-life panel for service members and their families. For more, Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke with Military Family Advisory Network's Chief Executive Officer Shannon Razsadin. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Good Morning Liberty, host Nate Thurston discusses the ongoing situation in Venezuela, including Trump's recent announcement of a blockade against sanctioned oil and the potential implications. Nate speculates on the timing of Trump's address to the nation and how it might relate to Venezuela, drug trafficking, and geopolitical dynamics involving China and Russia. He delves into the history of Venezuela's oil industry, U.S.-Venezuelan relations, and the underlying motivations for U.S. actions. Additionally, the episode touches on the skepticism around the declared reasons for military actions and the need for Congressional approval for such measures.   00:00 Intro   00:33 Trump's Blockade Announcement   01:17 Speculations and Conspiracies   02:39 Trump's Statement on Venezuela   04:47 Impact on Venezuela and Global Oil Market   07:05 Critique of US Actions and Policies   17:42 Historical Context of Venezuela's Oil Industry   34:56 Maduro's Offer to the US    

It's Tuesday, December 16th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Chinese Communists arrested 18 pastors over evangelism online Chinese Pastor Ezra Jin and 17 other pastors have been arrested by Chinese Communist authorities on charges of using illegal information networks. Translation? Putting the Gospel message on Zoom is now illegal in China.   The pastors are facing three years in prison.   A pastor's wife described the situation on the Christian Broadcasting Network. WIFE: “China opened the door for the Western society and then grow their economy. I grew up from that period of time. So, I thought we weren't gonna be put in jail because of our Christianity or our faith.” Chinese officials convicted liberty advocate Jimmy Lai Not surprisingly, those Chinese communists have convicted Hong Kong's pro-liberty advocate, Jimmy Lai, with conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. It's a charge that could put him in prison for life. This was the highest profile case since Hong Kong was turned over to the communists in 1997, and Hong Kong's democratic elections halted in 2020. China to eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for childbirth China is planning to eliminate all out-of-pocket medical costs for childbirth with the hopes of encouraging more births. China's fertility rate is dismal, hovering around 1.0. In fact, Chinese deaths have outnumbered births for three years in a row now. The countries with the lowest fertility rates in the world are Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Ukraine, and Chile. Two Muslim men killed 16 Jews in Sydney, Australia On Sunday, two Muslim men, a father and son, have been identified as suspects in the killings of 16 people at a Jewish celebration of Hannukah in Sydney, Australia on Bondi Beach, reports the Associated Press. That's the worst mass shooting in Australia since the Port Arthur massacre of 1996 where 35 people were killed and 23 were injured. Providentially, a bystander of Muslim background, 43-year-old Syrian fruit shop owner, Ahmed Al-Ahmed, happened on the scene. He tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen during the deadly massacre, preventing further carnage.  Ahmed was shot in the shoulder and arm while hiding behind a tree after confronting the gunman. Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is promising “tougher gun laws” in response. Actor Rob Reiner and wife allegedly killed by son Director and actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele were found dead Sunday, apparent victims of foul play at their home in Los Angeles, reports The L.A. Times. Sadly, Rob Reiner was an atheist, as was his father, Carl Reiner — another famous movie director.   Rob Reiner will be best remembered in the political realm for his leftist views, especially in his opposition to California's Proposition 8, and efforts to introduce homosexual marriage to the state and the country. At last report, Rob and Michele's son Nick, age 32, has been taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department, charged with the murder of his parents. He has a long history of drug addiction. Exodus 21:15 speaks to this sort of crime, as do Jesus's words in Matthew 15:4: “And he who strikes his father or his mother shall surely be put to death.” Little Sisters of the Poor vs. Obamacare continues After 14 years, Little Sisters of the Poor, comprised of Roman Catholic nuns, continues to object to the Obamacare mandate to provide coverage for abortifacients for their organization.    Back on July 8, 2020, the Supreme Court ruled 7–2 in favor of the Little Sisters, upholding federal rules that exempted religious organizations from the contraceptive mandate. But now, Pennsylvania and New Jersey have refused to drop their efforts to take away the Little Sisters' protection in the lower courts. Last August, a rogue federal district court in Philadelphia ruled against the Little Sisters and vacated the religious exemption rules that had protected them.  The case is in appeal to the Third Circuit Court. Bill Clinton unresponsive to Congressional subpoena over Epstein GOP House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced he will initiate contempt of Congress proceedings against Bill and Hillary Clinton. At issue is the Clintons' decision to ignore the committee's subpoenas issued back in August, in relation to investigations of the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking scandal. Epstein visited the White House 17 times in 1993 after Bill Clinton's inauguration. Artificial Intelligence: Time Magazine's “Person of the Year” Time Magazine's Person of the Year goes to Artificial Intelligence or rather, the architects of AI. Spending on Artificial Intelligence development has increased from $40 billion to $400 billion in just the last ten years.  Nvidia's stock has increased 60-fold, while Microsoft and Alphabet, Inc. have increased 7-fold over the same timeframe. Kirk Cameron advocates unbiblical theology of annihilationism Actor and Christian celebrity Kirk Cameron suggested in his recent podcast that hell is not forever — a departure from the long-held position of an eternal punishment for those who do not trust Christ, reports The Christian Post. CAMERON: “Eternal judgment or eternal punishment doesn't necessarily mean that we are being tormented and punished forever and ever, every moment for eternity. It means that the punishment we deserve is irreversible. It's permanent; it's eternal. You're dead. You've been destroyed. You have perished. You're gone, and you're never coming back.” This theological position is called annihilationism, a belief that all damned humans and fallen angels – including demons and Satan -- will be totally destroyed and their consciousness extinguished. CAMERON: “I actually think this is a really good argument for annihilationism. Just because the righteous go to eternal life, which is the gift of God, not that the wicked are granted an eternity of punishment. The punishment of the wicked is final. It is irreversible.” Rev. Al Mohler, President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, called the admission “sad.” And in his words: “The admonition to confess Christ or risk non-existence just doesn't pass the New Testament test, and there is a good reason it doesn't work in a sermon either. The stakes are just too low, and the fires of hell hold no eternal consequence.” At the final judgment, as recorded in Matthew 25: 41-43, Jesus said to those on His left hand: “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' … And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” Imprisoned fathers reunited with daughters at dance And finally, the “God Behind Bars” organization links local churches to prisons, and reunites families, especially children with their incarcerated parents or grandparents.   This Christmas season, the organization sponsored its first Father-Daughter Dance at the Angola Louisiana State Penitentiary.    Twenty-nine fathers were reunited with their daughters that night, many of whom had not seen their daughters for years — some over a decade. The ministry calls these events "moments of restoration … and the Gospel in motion." Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, December 16th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

On this new Dec. 16, 2025 episode of The News & Observer politics podcast, Under the Dome, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Washington correspondent Danielle Battaglia about candidates who have already filed to run for Congress, and how the Eastern District 1 is the race to watch, with a slew of Republicans vying in the primary to face off with incumbent Democratic Rep. Don Davis. And how a Trump endorsement can change a primary. Trump has already gotten into NC politics this primary by endorsing Senate leader Phil Berger. More on the Berger primary plus our picks for Headliner of the Week. Host: Dawn Vaughan Guest: Danielle Battaglia Producer: Kevin Keister Want even more North Carolina politics news? Our Under the Dome newsletter dives deep into all things #ncpol and legislative happenings. It's sent to your inbox Sunday to Friday. Sign up here. Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you're already a subscriber, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Great podcast with my new friend Rick Crosson. Rick is a retired LT. Colonel running for congress for the 8th Congressional district in Wisconsin. Rick and I talked about his 20 years of service in the Army and how he decided to run for congress. This was fun and light hearted. Politics are not our usual type of content but this was just about his vision and mission.

Hollywood mourns the death of director and actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele. The efforts to stop California's new Congressional maps head to a federal court. A storied music venue that hosted a number of bands before they were stars is closing its doors. Plus, more from Morning Edition. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.com Visit www.preppi.com/LAist to receive a FREE Preppi Emergency Kit (with any purchase over $100) and be prepared for the next wildfire, earthquake or emergency!Support the show: https://laist.com

Mike sits down with Matt Hawkins and Nick LaRovere,co-founders of Pryzm.Pryzm is building an Operating System for defense innovation—software that uses AI to generate capture intel to make sense of Pentagon budgets, Congressional legislation, program offices, and much more. It's AI to understand the Pentagon.They help connect the dots between missions, markets, andpeople to power the future of national security. Links• Sign up for the newsletter⁠! • Support us on ⁠Patreon⁠!• Pryzm homepage https://pryzm.io   ---- Follow us on...• LinkedIn• Instagram⁠• ⁠X⁠• ⁠Facebook⁠• ⁠Website⁠ ---- 00:0001:43 intro02:30 origin story05:57 disclosure07:07 2 PMs08:47 Air Force tanker program21:47 Golden Dome28:12 sales vs business development33:04 proactive vs reactive34:59 intel to flip the script37:56 a bubble?41:18 flat toplines43:05 requested vs executed46:38 fundraise48:27 DIU project50:58 2026 outlook55:29 outro

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.City Politics: Mamdani's Emerging Opposition; Lander's Congressional Bid (First) | Trump's Effort to Ban State AI Laws (Starts at 40:34) | Shop Listener 2025: Under $50 (Starts at 1:00:24)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.

In this episode, the Goods from the Woods Boys are hangin' at Disgraceland Studios with our ol' buddy, comedian Dave Yates! We try out an energy drink made by a VERY intense ex-Marine and podcaster named "Jocko". Then, we talk about the life and recent Congressional ambitions of Vince Offer aka "The Shamwow Guy". We chat about our favorite concert experiences of 2025 and Black Shelton and Trace Adkins' "Hillbilly Bone" is our JAM OF THE WEEK! Tune in now, y'all.  Follow Dave on all forms of social media @YatesComedy and buy a bottle of Ha Ha Hot Sauce here:  https://www.hahahotsauce.com  Music at the end is "Christmas in My Coffin" by Nobody's Peach. 

Indiana Republicans fight for redistricting; Kristi Norms staves off onslaught of clownish libs in Congressional hearing; Trump continues Venezuelan offensive Watch VINCE Live on Rumble - Mon-Fri 10AM ET ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://rumble.com/vince⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Indiana Redistricting Push Goes Down In Flames As Majority Of Republicans Reject Trump's Appeals https://dailycaller.com/2025/12/11/indiana-redistricting-republicans-trump-house-map/ Leftist Protester Clad As Catholic Cardinal Tossed From Noem Hearing After Shouting ‘Power Of Christ Compels You' https://dailycaller.com/2025/12/11/leftist-protester-catholic-cardinal-noem-hearing/ US Plans To Seize More ‘Shadow' Tankers Off Venezuela, Per Reports https://dailycaller.com/2025/12/11/us-plans-to-seize-more-shadow-tankers-off-venezuela-per-reports/ Sponsors: Beam Organics - https://shopbeam.com/VINCESHOW code: Vinceshow First Liberty Institute - https://firstliberty.org/vince Daily Wire - https://dailywire.com Birch Gold - Text VINCE to the number 989898 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democrats were on the receiving end of some midterm election momentum this week. In Indiana, Republicans lawmakers defied intense pressure from President Donald Trump rejecting his demands for a newly gerrymandered Congressional map.In Miami, residents elected Eileen Higgins as mayor, the first woman to hold the job in the city's history. She's also the first Democrat to hold the office in 28 years. And a Georgia state House seat flipped in a district Trump won by double digits.And Congress is considering limiting the Pentagon's travel budget after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth refused to release footage of a “double-tap” strike he ordered on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean.Meanwhile, can the United States legally seize a Venezuelan oil tanker or is it an act of “international piracy.”? What does this latest move by the Trump Administration towards Nicolas Maduro mean for escalating the ongoing pressure campaign? President Donald Trump says the vessel was taken “for a very good reason.”Under the terms of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, 600 trucks per day carrying aid must be allowed into Gaza. This week, an analysis by the Associated Press showed an average of only 459 are crossing into the territory daily. This comes as torrential rain from Storm Byron swept across the Strip flooding overcrowded tents sheltering tens of thousands of families displaced by the war.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is sounding the alarm about the role China is playing in helping Russia beef up its military industry.Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Trump’s push to redraw congressional maps in Republicans' favor hit a major roadblock in Indiana Thursday when Indiana Republican state senators joined Democrats to vote against a plan that would likely have created two new Republican seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. One Republican who voted to block the maps is Indiana Sen. Mike Bohacek. He joins Geoff Bennet to discuss. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Order my new book: https://geni.us/AtlasOfUFOs Former US Air Force security officer and congressional UAP hearing witness Jeff Nuccetelli returns to That UFO Podcast for a wide-ranging and deeply candid conversation. Jeff revisits the UFO incursions at Vandenberg Air Force Base, explains what it was like to testify before Congress, and details the intimidation and surveillance tactics faced by witnesses both before and after the hearings. He also discusses why whistleblower protections are still failing, how national security is used to shield secrecy, and what's really happening behind closed doors as lawmakers attempt to navigate classified systems. The conversation explores: What the public didn't see after the UAP hearings ended Why reputation destruction is often used instead of outright silencing The New Jersey drone/UAP flap and why many sightings remain unresolved The growing cultural impact of The Age of Disclosure documentary Steven Spielberg's return to UFOs and why art may lead disclosure Why reality itself may be far stranger than “ET vs human tech” debates Jeff also offers three bold predictions for 2026, including future hearings, new witnesses coming forward, and major shake-ups within the UFO community. https://gofund.me/53a2558ef

Subscribe to Bad Faith on Patreon to instantly unlock our full premium episode library: http://patreon.com/badfaithpodcast Twenty-five-year-old Parkland survivor Cameron Kasky joins Bad Faith discuss his run for Jerry Nadler's seat in New York's 12th Congressional district and to weigh in on debates around Zohran's anti-endorsement of Chi Ossé and pre-endorsement of Hakeem Jefferies for Speaker, Jasmine Crockett's Senate run, the male loneliness crisis, and more. Subscribe to Bad Faith on YouTube for video of this episode. Find Bad Faith on Twitter (@badfaithpod) and Instagram (@badfaithpod). Produced by Armand Aviram. Theme by Nick Thorburn (@nickfromislands).

How did Robert F. Kennedy — once the heir-apparent to the Kennedy family's Democratic dynasty — become the Secretary of Health in the Trump administration and the nation's most important anti-vaccine advocate? Michael Scherer, staff writer at The Atlantic, sat down with Kennedy for 7+ hours, getting to know him during jean-clad workouts, Congressional hearings, and the plane ride where Kennedy learned of the assassination of Charlie Kirk. The image Michael paints of Kennedy, in a profile published in The Atlantic this month, is a man of extreme changes — a promising political figure turned heroin addict, an environmental lawyer turned anti-vaccine activist, a Democratic presidential candidate turned Republican Secretary of Health. Contributor Alex Wagner sits down with Michael for an interesting conversation to ask if a better understanding of the strange political figure can help us better make sense of his dangerous approach to health and politics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After President Trump calls Ilhan Omar and her “friends” garbage, the media go nuts; the Left continues to target Secretary of War Pete Hegseth over a supposed war crime that likely didn't happen; and we review the results of Tennessee's special Congressional election. Ep.2326 - - - Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE - - - Facts Don't Care About Your Feelings - - - Today's Sponsors: Birch Gold - Text BEN to 989898 to claim your eligibility before 12/22. Dose - New customers can save 35% on your first month of subscription by going to https://dosedaily.co/SHAPIRO or entering SHAPIRO at checkout. Legacybox - Visit https://Legacybox.com/SHAPIRO for an unreal 65% off during the Legacybox Cyber Week Event. Policygenius - Head to https://policygenius.com/SHAPIRO to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save. NetSuite - Download the free business guide, Demystifying AI, at https://NetSuite.com/SHAPIRO - - - DailyWire+: Once a year, every year, we give you our best deal of the year. And it's happening right now. DailyWire+ memberships are 50% off. https://getdwplus.com/blackfridayBENYT Finally, Friendly Fire is here! No moderator, no safe words. Now available at https://www.dailywire.com/show/friendly-fire Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw - - - Socials: Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53  Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth orders a strike on a narcoterrorist boat, Democrats accuse him of war crimes; the White House prepares a pardon for a major convicted drug trafficker; and the GOP faces down a tough Congressional election in Tennessee. Ep.2325 - - - Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE - - - Facts Don't Care About Your Feelings - - - Today's Sponsors: Perplexity - Ask anything at https://pplx.ai/benshapiro and try out their new AI-powered web browser Comet at https://comet.perplexity.ai/ PureTalk - Switch to PureTalk and start saving today! Visit https://PureTalk.com/SHAPIRO Helix Sleep - Go to https://helixsleep.com/ben for an exclusive offer. Shopify - Sign up for your $1-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/shapiro Lumen - Head to https://lumen.me/SHAPIRO to get an additional 15% off your Lumen. Balance of Nature - Go to https://balanceofnature.com/pages/podcasters to get a FREE Variety Snack Pack plus a FREE Preferred Customer membership with your first set of Balance of Nature supplements. Daily Wire Shop - Go to https://dailywire.com/shop today. Kalshi - Visit https://kalshi.com/shapiro to see live prediction markets and sign up today to trade on the outcomes that matter most to you. - - - DailyWire+: Once a year, every year, we give you our best deal of the year. And it's happening right now. DailyWire+ memberships are 50% off. https://getdwplus.com/blackfridayBENYT Finally, Friendly Fire is here! No moderator, no safe words. Now available at https://www.dailywire.com/show/friendly-fire Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw - - - Socials: Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53  Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices