Podcast appearances and mentions of george w bush

This is the new George W Bush. Trump is what Bush metamorphoses into when it comes out of its red cocoon. The crazier the US empire gets, the more insane its managers are becoming. Reading by Tim Foley.

The progress we enjoy today, now under threat, was built by people who chose to turn despair into action, to do something instead of nothing. In these final days of winter, it's up to each of us to build an American spring. Call the Congressional switchboard 202-224-3121 and demand that your reps fight for the full release of the Epstein files, justice for every survivor and those killed, and accountability for every predator and enabler. And tell them to stop another forever war in the Middle East before it unleashes yet another Pandora's box, like George W. Bush's Iraq invasion gave rise to ISIS.  For this week's bonus show, we're publishing the recording of this past Monday's salon early. It was an in-depth conversation during an extra-tense time, and we hope you'll find a moment to listen to it, and to take extra care with yourselves. None of this is easy, but we're keeping our eyes on the prize, planting seeds of change for a better world.  We begin by reminding ourselves: yes, it's possible. And we are the ones being called to do it. Thank you for being here, and for staying in the fight with us. We could not make Gaslit Nation without you. We'll see you at Monday's salon at 4pm. For our Patreon supporters, the link, along with the recording, has already been published for you.  Join our community of listeners and get bonus shows, ad free listening, group chats with other listeners, ways to shape the show, invites to exclusive events like our Monday political salons at 4pm ET over Zoom, and more! Discounted annual memberships are available. Become a Democracy Defender at Patreon.com/Gaslit

Over the weekend, U.S. and Israeli forces struck hundreds of sites across Iran and killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Large crowds of Iranians took to the streets, some to mourn, others to celebrate. The Islamic Republic has retaliated and launched strikes of its own across the Middle East.  Much about the joint U.S.-Israeli operation remains unclear—was it meant to eliminate Iran's nuclear capabilities after failed negotiations? Was it meant to force regime change? With no path to de-escalation in sight, Washington may end up in a larger conflagration than it bargained for. In this two-part episode, Executive Editor Justin Vogt spoke with two experts to help make sense of the situation.  First, Nate Swanson, the director of the Iran Strategy Project at the Atlantic Council and a former Iran policy adviser to the Trump and Biden administrations. He was director for Iran at the National Security Council between 2022 and 2025 and he served on the Trump administration's Iran negotiating team in the spring and summer of 2025. Vogt spoke with him on Wednesday, March 4 about the situation on the ground in Iran, Iran's strategy in the wake of the U.S.-Israeli attacks, and how Iran policy gets made in the Trump administration.  Then, Richard Haass, the president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations. Toward the end of his long career in government, Haass served as the director of policy planning in the State Department during the George W. Bush administration, at a time when the United States was carrying out a war aimed at regime change in Afghanistan and planning another such war in Iraq. Vogt spoke with Haass on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 3, about the history of regime change operations and how the current war on Iran fits into it. Both Swanson and Haass make clear that this is a watershed moment for the United States, Iran, and the Middle East more broadly. You can find sources, transcripts, and more episodes of The Foreign Affairs Interview at https://www.foreignaffairs.com/podcasts/foreign-affairs-interview.

On America at Night with McGraw Milhaven, Bryan Stern, Founder and CEO of Grey Bull Rescue, discussed the organization's efforts to rescue and evacuate Americans trapped in dangerous regions of the Middle East, explaining the logistics and risks involved in private rescue operations during geopolitical crises. Next, Mikey Weinstein, Founder and President of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, joined the program to discuss ongoing debates surrounding religious freedom and expression within the U.S. military. The conversation then shifted to energy markets with Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy, who analyzed how rising tensions with Iran could impact retail fuel prices, refinery operations, and broader downstream oil markets affecting American drivers. Finally, historian and Free Press writer Jonathan Horn, who previously served as a speechwriter for President George W. Bush, reflected on the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Boston, placing the Revolutionary War moment into historical context and discussing its lasting significance in the fight for American independence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This tumultuous week in the news, the Hacks are joined by not one but two expert Hackeroos. First up, Mark McKinnon — former adviser to George W. Bush and co-creator and co-host of The Circus — jumps in with Axe and Murphy to break down the strikes in Iran: what led up to them, what's happened since the initial attacks and retaliatory strikes across the region, and what the Trump administration is saying (and not saying) about its strategy amid shifting justifications and questions about long-term planning. Then they're joined by Hacks kin Billy Begala, veteran Democratic strategist and co-founder of The Barbed Wire, to preview tonight's Senate primary in Texas and what the outcome could signal for the midterms. Photo by Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New polling shows major disapproval of U.S. strikes on Iran — but buried inside the data is a powerful message from the American people. They're not anti-war. They're anti-forever war. Today, Tara breaks down the CBS internals the media ignored, why voters are traumatized by Iraq and Afghanistan, and how Trump's approach to modern warfare may be completely different from Bush-era quagmires. Plus: the rise of directed energy weapons, Israel's battlefield tech revolution, and what this new era of precision warfare means for Iran — and China. This isn't 2003. And voters know it.

Bioweapons labs. Weaponized crop blight. Engineered pests targeting livestock. For years, the fear has been simple: What if China doesn't fight a conventional war… but a biological one? Today, Tara breaks down explosive reporting about Chinese-linked biological threats, shifting oil leverage, and why recent U.S. military actions may have completely flipped Beijing's strategic calculus. Retired Admiral James Stavridis says recent U.S. operations are getting attention in Beijing and Moscow. Is this escalation — or deterrence? And could unpredictability be the one thing preventing catastrophe?

On this new episode of THE POLITICRAT daily podcast Omar Moore on Donald Trump's illegal war in Iran and how he has morphed into another war criminal, George W. Bush. Also: "Fahrenheit 9/11" flashbacks to the future.WARNING: This episode contains graphic descriptions and disturbing content. Listener discretion is advised.Recorded March 2, 2026.Subscribe on Substack: https://popcornreel.substack.comSubscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thepoliticratpodBUY MERCH FROM THE POLITICRAT STORE: https://the-politicrat.myshopify.comBUY BLACK!Patronize Black-owned businesses on Roland Martin's Black Star Network: https://shopblackstarnetwork.comBLACK-OWNED MEDIA MATTERS: (Watch Roland Martin Unfiltered daily M-F 6-8pm Eastern)https://youtube.com/rolandsmartin

Visit us at Network2020.org. The year 2026 kicked off with a massive shake-up in U.S. foreign and energy policy. Through bold action, the Trump administration is signaling its conviction that global power lies in controlling physical energy reserves, such as those in Venezuela, rather than adhering to international climate treaties. By planning to invest billions into fixing Venezuela's oil infrastructure, the U.S. aims to flood the market with cheap crude oil and push prices down to $50 a barrel. This strategy is designed to weaken foreign oil monopolies in the Western Hemisphere, starve rival world powers of export revenues, and collapse the energy lifelines that have sustained ideologically aligned neighbors of Venezuela. What will be the strategic impact of this situation on countries like China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba? What are the costs and benefits for private oil companies investing in a market defined by a history of expropriation? How will cheap crude impact the global energy transition and the growing power demands of the AI revolution?Join us for a discussion on the vision for the U.S. energy strategy and how that fits into the future global energy mix, featuring Dr. Caroyln Kissane, Associate Dean of the graduate programs in Global Affairs and Global Security, Conflict, and Cybercrime at New York University's Center for Global Affairs, Robert McNally, Founder and President of Rapidan Energy Group and White House energy advisor to President George W. Bush and Dr. Francisco Monaldi, Director of the Latin America Energy Program at Rice University's Baker Institute.Music by Aleksey Chistilin from Pixabay.

« En l'espace de 3 jours, constate le Washington Post, le conflit iranien s'est étendu bien au-delà des cibles initiales en Iran pour menacer quelque 300 millions de civils dans plus d'une douzaine de pays. (…) Missiles et drones ont été lancés vers les capitales du golfe Persique. Des hôtels et des immeubles d'habitation aux Émirats arabes unis ont été touchés. Israël a bombardé des positions du Hezbollah au Liban. Des milices alignées sur Téhéran ont revendiqué des frappes de la Méditerranée à la mer Rouge. À Chypre, des explosions ont retenti avant-hier sur une base britannique, faisant de ce pays le premier en Europe à être touché. » Libération à Paris s'interroge : « Et si l'opération militaire lancée sur l'Iran par Donald Trump et Benyamin Nétanyahou devenait hors de contrôle ? Les deux leaders ont entrepris de redessiner la carte du monde en fonction de leurs intérêts, sans aucune concertation avec le reste de la communauté internationale et au mépris total des règles du droit. Et on en voit le résultat aujourd'hui, pointe Libération : au fil des jours, le conflit s'étend, menaçant de s'internationaliser. Certes, en éliminant samedi Ali Khamenei, le Guide suprême iranien, les deux hommes ont débarrassé la planète d'un tyran sanguinaire qui opprimait son peuple et tirait bon nombre de ficelles du terrorisme mondial. Mais, s'interroge encore Libération, ont-ils bien mesuré les risques de chaos local, régional voire international que cela pouvait engendrer ? Le risque d'embrasement d'un monde en surchauffe où la moindre étincelle peut se révéler fatale ? » Trump prend le plus grand risque de sa présidence… « En Iran, Donald Trump a rompu avec quarante-cinq ans de prudence, relève pour sa part Le Figaro. Depuis 1979, tous ses prédécesseurs ont été tentés d'abattre le régime antiaméricain de Téhéran. Tous se sont ravisés face au risque d'une telle entreprise… Pas Donald Trump, qui a mis le doigt dans un dangereux engrenage. Décapité au premier jour de la guerre, le régime des mollahs est loin de s'avouer vaincu. Obsédé par sa survie, préparant l'affrontement depuis des décennies, il fait monter les enchères, pointe encore Le Figaro, et mise sur un embrasement du Moyen-Orient pour contrer la "Fureur épique" du président américain. » « Avec cette guerre contre l'Iran, Donald Trump prend le plus grand risque de sa présidence », renchérit le New York Times. Il met en péril la vie de soldats américains, il créée l'instabilité dans la région la plus instable du monde, et fragilise sa propre position politique. Confronté à une baisse de sa popularité et à la possibilité que les républicains perdent le contrôle du Congrès lors des élections de mi-mandat, Donald Trump a plongé les États-Unis dans ce qui s'annonce comme leur conflit militaire le plus vaste depuis l'invasion de l'Irak en 2003. » « Donald Trump dans l'antichambre d'un nouveau bourbier en Iran ? », s'interroge Le Devoir à Montréal. « Le président américain rejoue une sinistre partition en redéployant la stratégie douteuse des armes de destruction massive de Bush en Irak. » En effet, complète Le Monde à Paris, « entré en politique en dénonçant l'aventurisme guerrier de George W. Bush en Irak, Donald Trump n'a jamais fait la preuve de son goût pour les efforts diplomatiques et militaires de longue haleine, ni de sa capacité à assumer les conséquences d'une décision funeste. C'est dire les risques que comporte sa guerre contre l'Iran, qu'il a déclarée seul, sans aucun mandat des Nations unies, et dont il sera donc seul comptable. » Et la suite ? « Et aujourd'hui, rien ni personne ne semble vouloir calmer le jeu, soupire Le Soir à Bruxelles. Les Nations unies ont été niées dans l'affaire. Plus personne n'est au-dessus de la mêlée pour rassembler, dialoguer, temporiser. Il ne faut certainement pas attendre cela d'un président américain qui a promis hier que "le gros de l'opération n'avait pas encore eu lieu". » Enfin, cerise sur le gâteau, cette guerre en Iran pourrait déboucher sur un changement de régime, certes, mais pas celui attendu. D'après le Wall Street Journal, selon des sources proches de la CIA, la mort de Khamenei pourrait permettre à des extrémistes et tenants de la ligne dure du régime au sein des Gardiens de la révolution de prendre le pouvoir. 

UnHerd's Freddie Sayers and US editor Sohrab Ahmari unpick the ideological fracture within the Republican party following the escalatory US strikes against Iran. From the notable silence of JD Vance to the resurging influence of Lindsey Graham, they explore how Donald Trump's "Peace Admin" shifted toward a hawk-like interventionism agenda reminiscent of the George W. Bush era, at a decisive moment in the battle for the soul of American foreign policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the US-Israeli attack on Iran, the Ayatollah is dead - and nobody should mourn a murderous dictator who presided for decades over state-sponsored terrorism across the world. But we don't know if his replacement will be as bad - or worse. Donald Trump says Iranian dissidents should take this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sweep into power. But how? The President says the war should last four weeks. But as Iranian bombs rain down on Gulf states who did not want a war, we don't know if it can be contained. Trump's legacy will now be defined by what happens next, just as Tony Blair and George W Bush are defined by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A free and democratic Iran, allied with the West, would be an outcome that eclipses any of Trump's domestic failures or successes. But the same thing applies with equal menace to a regime change that goes the way of US-led regime changes in Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq and elsewhere. Piers Morgan speaks to former Vice President Mike Pence about the conflict in the Middle East as well as former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett. He's also joined by his panel; The Young Turks Ana Kasparian, System Update host Glenn Greenwald, retired lieutenant colonel and IDF spokesman Jonathan Conricus, former general and US assistant secretary of state Mark Kimmitt and former Canadian lawmaker and Iranian activist Goldie Ghamari. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is this the end of the Islamic Republic? Following reports of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during a series of joint US-Israeli airstrikes, the Middle East stands at a historic crossroads. Today on the FOX News Rundown: From Washington, Michael Allen, who was a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush at the National Security Council, joins to break down the "gargantuan" implications of these strikes and President Trump's direct appeal to the Iranian people to reclaim their country. He also explains what this massive development may mean for oil prices and America's stance against China and Russia. Later, White House OMB Director Russ Vought joins to discuss the ongoing standoff over Department of Homeland Security funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is this the end of the Islamic Republic? Following reports of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during a series of joint US-Israeli airstrikes, the Middle East stands at a historic crossroads. Today on the FOX News Rundown: From Washington, Michael Allen, who was a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush at the National Security Council, joins to break down the "gargantuan" implications of these strikes and President Trump's direct appeal to the Iranian people to reclaim their country. He also explains what this massive development may mean for oil prices and America's stance against China and Russia. Later, White House OMB Director Russ Vought joins to discuss the ongoing standoff over Department of Homeland Security funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is this the end of the Islamic Republic? Following reports of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during a series of joint US-Israeli airstrikes, the Middle East stands at a historic crossroads. Today on the FOX News Rundown: From Washington, Michael Allen, who was a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush at the National Security Council, joins to break down the "gargantuan" implications of these strikes and President Trump's direct appeal to the Iranian people to reclaim their country. He also explains what this massive development may mean for oil prices and America's stance against China and Russia. Later, White House OMB Director Russ Vought joins to discuss the ongoing standoff over Department of Homeland Security funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

U.S. Presidents are transported in some of the safest, most technologically advanced vehicles in the world. White House Historical Association President Stewart McLaurin visited the United States Secret Service James J. Rowley Training Center in Laurel, Maryland to get a very special look at "The Beast," the affectionate nickname given by the press when the first generation of General Motors' custom-built Cadillac presidential limousines debuted in 2001. The presidential limousine has come a long way since 1909 when Congress appropriated funds for President William Howard Taft to purchase the first two White House motor cars. Stewart sits down with John Bush, the Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Protective Division for the United States Secret Service, who recently retired after 24 years of service. John was part of the transportation detail that drove President Obama, and was in the front seat of the limo carrying Presidents Biden and Trump on Inauguration Day 2025. The interview was recorded in the Robert Diehl Historic Garage in front of several generations of presidential vehicles including limousines used by Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, as well as other escort vehicles used in presidential motorcades. Stewart takes a tour with John and Robert Diehl, himself, who served for more than 50 years before retiring from the U.S. Secret Service. Learn about the time President Reagan was rushed off the course at Augusta National Golf Club, and take a look inside "The Beast" when Stewart gets the chance to take a seat in a retired presidential limo.

U.S. Presidents are transported in some of the safest, most technologically advanced vehicles in the world. White House Historical Association President Stewart McLaurin visited the United States Secret Service James J. Rowley Training Center in Laurel, Maryland to get a very special look at "The Beast," the affectionate nickname given by the press when the first generation of General Motors' custom-built Cadillac presidential limousines debuted in 2001. The presidential limousine has come a long way since 1909 when Congress appropriated funds for President William Howard Taft to purchase the first two White House motor cars. Stewart sits down with John Bush, the Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Protective Division for the United States Secret Service, who recently retired after 24 years of service. John was part of the transportation detail that drove President Obama, and was in the front seat of the limo carrying Presidents Biden and Trump on Inauguration Day 2025. The interview was recorded in the Robert Diehl Historic Garage in front of several generations of presidential vehicles including limousines used by Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, as well as other escort vehicles used in presidential motorcades. Stewart takes a tour with John and Robert Diehl, himself, who served for more than 50 years before retiring from the U.S. Secret Service. Learn about the time President Reagan was rushed off the course at Augusta National Golf Club, and take a look inside "The Beast" when Stewart gets the chance to take a seat in a retired presidential limo.

Superguy artist and BFF of the podcast Joey Murphy returns to talk about his and Anthony's new issue of Superguy that's running a campaign right NOW on Kickstarter!!But first, has Cody stopped drinking? How is the movie Primate? Have we all seen Anaconda? Does Anthony's daughter make a cameo in this issue? What would happen if Joey and Cody fused? How often does the hierarchy of power change on the pod? Did the boys like this issue of Superguy more than the first? How do Anthony and Joey handle adult humor without being obscene and vulgar? Are they going for a Saturday Morning Cartoon vibe? Does the Prez give George W. Bush and Thunderbolt Ross vibes? Did Captain America: Brave New World steak from Superguy? What characters influenced the creation of Hot Mess? Are we ever gonna see a Kryptonite-like weakness for Superguy? Will characters die? Do we get a glimpse into Superguy's past in this issue? Was Shrek slipping adult jokes into the original movie? What are Super Bazoongas? Is Willem Dafoe hung like a horse? Did Shia LaBeouf get his ass beat? Does Superguy have a love interest? How does Robotguy feel like Spider-Man? Is Superguy better than Absolute Batman? Have Joey and Anthony leveled up as comic creators? Is comedy looked down on in media?And stay tuned to the end of the episode for a HUGE reveal!Back Superguy issue #2: My Date with The President's Daughter on Kickstarter! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mrtonynacho/superguy-2-my-date-with-the-presidents-daughter?ref=creator_tab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes every THURSDAYFollow us on social media! Bluesky // Instagram // Twitter // TikTok :⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@comicsnchronic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/channel/UC45vP6pBHZk9rZi_2X3VkzQ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠E-mail: comicsnchronicpodcast@gmail.comCodyInstagram // Bluesky:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@codycannoncomedy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: @Cody_CannonTikTok: @codywalakacannonJakeInstagram // Bluesky:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@jakefhaha⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AnthonyBluesky // Instagram // Threads // Twitter // TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@mrtonynacho⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We are up against a transnational mafia, as Gaslit Nation has long warned, and the Epstein files expose it, despite the ongoing cover-up. This week, investigative journalist Dave Troy joins the show to connect the dots between Epstein, the Kremlin, and far-right operatives who have spent decades dismantling our democracy, including the Florida 2000 recount that ensured George W. Bush came to power. (Bush's administration gave Epstein an illegal "sweetheart deal," allowing him and Maxwell to continue their crime network, trafficking children to the ruling elite). "The U.S. government has been infiltrated by these networks for decades," Troy says. Epstein was not a lone wolf. He was deeply embedded in a transnational crime syndicate with ties extending to Russian intelligence and powerful oligarchs who are still trying to create a lawless "network state" where they can operate above the law.  We also discuss the dangerous complacency of assuming our institutions will protect us, especially when the very people tasked with upholding the law, from the DOJ to high-profile attorneys, protect the shadow network. Their goal is to demoralize us with complexity. By tracing their connections, we can understand their playbook and fight back. Join our community of listeners and get bonus shows, ad free listening, group chats with other listeners, ways to shape the show, invites to exclusive events like our Monday political salons at 4pm ET over Zoom, and more! Discounted annual memberships are available. Become a Democracy Defender at Patreon.com/Gaslit EVENTS AT GASLIT NATION: The Gaslit Nation Outreach Committee discusses how to talk to the MAGA cult: join on Patreon.  Minnesota Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other: join on Patreon.  Vermont Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other: join on Patreon.  Arizona-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to connect: join on Patreon.  Indiana-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to join: join on Patreon.  Florida-based listeners are going strong meeting in person. Be sure to join their Signal group: join on Patreon.  Gaslit Nation Salons take place Mondays 4pm ET over Zoom and are recorded and shared on Patreon.com/Gaslit for our community  

Welcome to The Daily Wrap Up, an in-depth investigatory show dedicated to bringing you the most relevant independent news, as we see it, from the last 24 hours (2/25/26). As always, take the information discussed in the video below and research it for yourself, and come to your own conclusions. Anyone telling you what the truth is, or claiming they have the answer, is likely leading you astray, for one reason or another. Stay Vigilant. !function(r,u,m,b,l,e){r._Rumble=b,r[b]||(r[b]=function(){(r[b]._=r[b]._||[]).push(arguments);if(r[b]._.length==1){l=u.createElement(m),e=u.getElementsByTagName(m)[0],l.async=1,l.src="https://rumble.com/embedJS/u2q643"+(arguments[1].video?'.'+arguments[1].video:'')+"/?url="+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+"&args="+encodeURIComponent(JSON.stringify([].slice.apply(arguments))),e.parentNode.insertBefore(l,e)}})}(window, document, "script", "Rumble");   Rumble("play", {"video":"v743gv6","div":"rumble_v743gv6"}); Video Source Links (In Chronological Order): (14) The Last American Vagabond on X: "Go ahead Mike, just say it.. “most important election of our lifetimes”

Secret Service and the Zero-Fail MissionThe U.S. Secret Service lives by a simple standard: zero fail. Every route, every rooftop, and every split-second decision demands excellence because the mission leaves no room for mistakes.Jeff Rinehart has built his career around that expectation. The 1993 Cedarville University graduate has spent nearly three decades with the Secret Service, rising into senior leadership and carrying the weight of protecting the nation and serving its government with quiet professionalism.To most people, the Secret Service looks like dark suits, earpieces, and sunglasses. Rinehart understands the mystique, but he points to something deeper. The heart of the work, he says, is service — service to the United States, to its government, and to the people who rely on it.That sense of purpose demands steady discipline. In a job where one mistake can change history, Rinehart has pursued excellence the way a craftsman pursues a clean finish: by doing the small things right every day. He has protected dignitaries and worked alongside world leaders, but he also recognizes that the agency's mission stretches far beyond what the cameras capture.The Secret Service investigates cybercrime and financial fraud, and Rinehart speaks about those cases with real conviction. When agents stop someone from draining a senior citizen's life savings, the work matters. When they track down cyber predators who exploit children online, the reward runs even deeper. He does not glamorize the job. He honors it, and he honors the people it helps.Over the years, Rinehart has stepped up to a wide range of assignments. He served on the presidential detail for President George W. Bush, handled sensitive work as a foreign attaché officer, and built cases as a criminal investigator. Each role demanded the same steady excellence day after day, whether anyone is watching or not.In his current role, Rinehart has helped keep President Donald Trump safe during multiple visits overseas, including trips to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Those miles add another layer to the mission: unfamiliar terrain, shifting schedules, and constant coordination with host nations. Still, the expectation never changes. The detail must run clean, the planning must hold, and the team must be ready for anything.Rinehart recently shared his story as a guest on the Cedarville Stories podcast. In his trademark steady way, he made it clear that the Secret Service is more than an image. It is a calling to serve something bigger than oneself and a daily commitment to excellence in a mission where “zero fail” is not a tagline but a promise.https://share.transistor.fm/s/93bc077dhttps://youtu.be/YtBjp1nYnOM

From Washington to Lincoln to FDR to the present day, presidents have long been drivers of American progress. Yet the presidency has also been prone to immense abuse.Today, we are experiencing an executive power grab at a scale never seen before. Is this merely a continuation of trends or something entirely new? How should we understand this moment in American history? And what do we need to do to restore checks on the office?Listen as David Frum, former speechwriter for President George W. Bush and staff writer at The Atlantic, speaks about this moment in our constitutional history and what it will take to correct course.Recorded on February 17, 2026.Keep up with the Brennan Center's work by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, The Briefing, at https://go.brennancenter.org/briefing.The Brennan Center is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that works to repair, revitalize, and defend our systems of democracy and justice so they work for all Americans. The Brennan Center cannot support or oppose any candidate for office.

In this episode - John discusses the recent blizzard affecting the Northeast, the implications of the Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's tariffs, and the ongoing political drama surrounding the State of the Union address. Then, he is joined by Professor Corey Brettschneider. The conversation touches on critical issues such as executive overreach, judicial accountability, and the state of democracy. Next, John speaks with Miles Taylor who is a national security expert that works in Washington, DC. Taylor previously served as chief of staff at the US Department of Homeland Security, where he published an “Anonymous” essay in The New York Times, blowing the whistle on presidential misconduct. He later published the #1 national bestseller A Warning, revealed himself to be the author, and launched a campaign of ex-officials to oppose Donald Trump's reelection. He's worked as an advisor in the George W. Bush administration, on Capitol Hill, as a CNN contributor, and is the cofounder of a DC-based charter school and multiple democracy-reform groups. His latest book is "BLOWBACK". And winding it up, comedian Rhonda Hansome returns to joke with John and listeners about the State of the Union boycotts and Toddler Trump's Tirades and Tantrums.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Norman C. Francis, the New Orleans civil rights leader, businessman, educator and president of Xavier University for nearly half a century, died last week. He was 94. Francis is remembered for his commitment to making the city a better place to live, whether through integration efforts or recovery after Hurricane Katrina. In 2006, then-president George W. Bush  honored him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Patrick Francis, one of Francis' six children, joins us to discuss his father's life and legacy and constant commitment to civil rights. We'll also hear a recording of Norman C. Francis himself from last July, reflecting on his own role in the Freedom Riders movement.The earliest-known full-length opera written by a Black American composer is now available as a new CD. The album of Edmond Dede's “Morgiane” was produced by Opera Creole and features singers from across the country. Opera Creole founders Givonna Joseph and her daughter Aria Mason join  us to discuss the details and explain the longevity of the 1887 work.  __Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Diane Mack. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber and our assistant producer is Aubry Procell. Our engineer is Garrett Pittman.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

This Day in Legal History: Marbury v. MadisonOn February 24, 1803, the U.S. Supreme Court decided Marbury v. Madison, a case that permanently reshaped American constitutional law. The dispute arose after President John Adams appointed several “midnight judges” in the final hours of his administration. One of those appointees, William Marbury, never received his commission because it was not delivered before Thomas Jefferson took office. Jefferson instructed his Secretary of State, James Madison, not to deliver the commission, prompting Marbury to seek relief directly from the Supreme Court.Presiding over the case was Chief Justice John Marshall, whose involvement added a striking layer of irony. Before becoming Chief Justice, Marshall had served as Secretary of State under Adams and had been responsible for sealing the very commissions at issue. In other words, Marshall was now reviewing the legal consequences of actions taken by his former office. Rather than recuse himself, he authored the opinion that would define the Court's authority.Marshall concluded that Marbury had a legal right to his commission but held that the statute granting the Supreme Court power to issue writs of mandamus conflicted with Article III of the Constitution. Because the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, Marshall reasoned, any conflicting statute must be void. In declaring part of the Judiciary Act of 1789 unconstitutional, the Court asserted the power of judicial review for the first time.The decision simultaneously denied Marbury his remedy while expanding the Court's institutional authority. It avoided a direct political confrontation with Jefferson while firmly establishing the judiciary as a co-equal branch of government. What began as a minor political dispute over an undelivered commission became the foundation for the Supreme Court's power to strike down unconstitutional laws.A federal judge has permanently blocked the Justice Department from releasing a prosecutor's report concerning the classified documents case against President Donald Trump. The ruling was issued by U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, who concluded that making the report public would amount to a “manifest injustice” because the case never went to trial. She reasoned that publishing detailed allegations of criminal conduct without a jury verdict would undermine basic fairness principles.The case had been brought by Special Counsel Jack Smith and accused Trump of unlawfully retaining sensitive national defense materials at his Mar-a-Lago property and obstructing government efforts to recover them. Trump and his co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveira, pleaded not guilty and described the prosecution as politically motivated. In 2024, Cannon dismissed the charges, finding that Smith had not been lawfully appointed.After Trump returned to office, the Justice Department supported efforts to keep the report confidential. Although special counsels are typically required to submit reports explaining their charging decisions, Cannon held that releasing this one would conflict with her earlier rulings, including her determination that Smith's appointment was invalid. She also cited concerns about exposing grand jury material.The decision prevents public disclosure of substantial details about one of the four criminal cases Trump faced after leaving office. It follows the Supreme Court's recent decision limiting Trump's tariff authority and marks another significant legal development in the ongoing disputes surrounding his post-presidency investigations.US judge permanently blocks release of report on Trump documents case | ReutersThe chief judges of two major federal appeals courts have announced plans to step back from active service later this year, creating new vacancies for President Donald Trump to fill. Debra Ann Livingston of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and Jeffrey Sutton of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit both notified the president that they intend to take senior status. Livingston plans to assume senior status on July 1, while Sutton will do so on October 1.Their decisions come ahead of the November midterm elections, when control of the U.S. Senate could shift, potentially complicating confirmation of successors. Because judicial vacancies have been relatively scarce during Trump's second term, the openings present an opportunity to expand his appellate appointments. During his first term, Trump appointed 54 appellate judges, significantly influencing the judiciary's ideological direction.Both judges were originally appointed by President George W. Bush. Livingston, who has served on the Second Circuit since 2007 and became chief judge in 2020, has at times issued notable dissents, including in cases involving LGBTQ workplace protections and congressional subpoenas tied to Trump's business records. Sutton, on the Sixth Circuit since 2003 and chief judge since 2021, has been an influential conservative jurist. He authored a 2014 opinion upholding same-sex marriage bans that the Supreme Court later overturned in Obergefell v. Hodges.Senior status allows eligible judges to continue hearing cases on a reduced basis while enabling the president to nominate full-time replacements. Their departures will hand Trump two high-profile appellate vacancies at a time when few others are available.Two chief US appellate judges to leave active service, handing Trump vacancies | ReutersIn my weekly column for Bloomberg Tax, I examine the Trump administration's proposed 0.125% “land port maintenance tax” and question whether it is truly infrastructure policy or contingency planning after the Supreme Court curtailed its tariff authority. The proposal is framed as a parity measure to mirror the Harbor Maintenance Fee, but I argue the timing is hard to ignore. Just this week, the Court in Learning Resources Inc. v. Trump held that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to impose tariffs, reaffirming that Congress controls taxing power absent clear delegation. In my view, that ruling narrows executive trade authority and invites efforts to find alternative mechanisms embedded elsewhere in the customs code.I suggest the land port tax looks like one such alternative. Although labeled a “maintenance” fee, it would be imposed at the border and function economically like a tariff, with costs passed to US importers and consumers. Because most land-based trade flows through Canada and Mexico, I note that the charge would operate in practice as a North American supply chain tax. Calling it infrastructure policy does not change its price effects.I also argue that the Harbor Maintenance Fee analogy falls apart on inspection. Whatever its flaws, the HMF at least carries a user-fee logic tied to dredging and port upkeep. By contrast, the new proposal appears loosely connected to land-border infrastructure and bundled within a broader maritime industrial policy agenda. If shipbuilding is a national security priority, I contend Congress should fund it transparently through the Defense Department and regular appropriations. If the HMF distorts shipping routes, it should be reformed directly rather than replicated inland.Ultimately, I maintain that after Learning Resources, any border charge that operates like a tariff will face legal skepticism. If policymakers intend to subsidize maritime industry, they should say so clearly, define measurable goals, and subject the costs to democratic accountability. 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

Big Talk is back for 2026! The Iraq War was one of the most consequential political decisions of the 21st century. In this episode of Big Talk, we trace the road from 9/11 to the invasion of Iraq, unpacking how the trauma of that moment reshaped American and Australian foreign policy overnight and how George W. Bush framed the world in binaries of “good versus evil”. This episode takes us from Bush's election all the way through to the fateful, pre-emptive 'mission accomplished' speech delivered after the initial invasion. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram Video Grab Sources: The Age & SBS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 2010, Jack and guest co-host Andrew Ti are joined by comedian, Troy Walker, to discuss… Trump Making War Noises At Iran, AI Push Continues As Nobody Is Really Using It, Reese Grandson Sparks Peanut Butter Cup Controversy and more! Adam Silver: AI Will Give Us ‘Most Significant Change’ in Presentation of Sports Thousands of CEOs just admitted AI had no impact on employment or productivity—and it has economists resurrecting a paradox from 40 years ago Big Tech to Spend $650 Billion This Year as AI Race Intensifies Grandson of Reese’s founder alleges Hershey has switched to cheaper ingredients – sparking family feud ‘Oreos too’: Utah man bites into Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Then he notices something different LISTEN: Siesta by BSEARL Pre-Order Troy Walker's Comedy Album ESQUIRE Here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From global tech scandals to local politics, this episode dives into: Bill Gates & Epstein Fallout: Gates cancels India AI Summit appearance amid backlash over past associations. Prince Andrew & Royal Scandals: How the Epstein files continue to shake high-profile figures. Colbert Controversy & Election Law: FCC equal-time rules, censorship claims, and media bias. NYC Dog Debate: Pro-Palestinian activist sparks outrage over “Islamization” and banning indoor pets. Trump & Soleimani: Revisiting U.S. military revenge, Iran tensions, and historical context. AI & Surveillance: Ring's new Search Party feature, Skynet-style networks, and the risks of connected cameras. Retirement Planning: Tips from Common Sense Retirement Planning to secure your future against market swings. From politics to tech, censorship to security, this episode covers the stories everyone is talking about — and the ones you might be missing.

From local politics to international conflicts, this episode covers it all: New York politics: How pro-Palestinian activists and allies of Mayor Eric Adams are sparking controversy over dogs and “cultural change.” Trump & Iran: Revisiting the killing of Qassem Soleimani and why Trump considered it a long-overdue act of justice for fallen U.S. personnel. War, vengeance, and politics: How 600+ U.S. military deaths in Iraq shaped foreign policy decisions. Financial focus: Tips on retirement planning from Common Sense Retirement Planning to maximize income and minimize risk. Accountability, culture, and strategic planning collide in this episode — from local dog bans to global conflict and financial security.

This week, Bill and Phil breakdown Marco Rubio‘s big week of diplomacy, ponder whether George W. Bush was trolling Donald Trump in a recent essay about George Washington, and discuss whether Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito may soon retire.

As the 21st century dawned, a newly-elected Vladmir Putin was making friends on the world stage. He smiled for photo ops at G8 meetings, and was the first foreign leader to call George W. Bush after the attacks of 9/11, offering his support against terrorism.So what changed? To understand Russia's view of the world now – and its continued aggression towards Ukraine – it helps to know more about the psyche of the country and its leader.In today's episode, we talk to James Rodgers, a reader in international journalism at City St George's, University of London, about how a festering sense of national humiliation after the collapse of the Soviet Union hardened Putin's tough man regime and led Russia to turn its back on the west.This episode was written and produced by Mend Mariwany and Gemma Ware with editing help from Ashlynne McGhee. Mixing by Michelle Macklem and theme music by Neeta Sarl. Read the full credits for this episode and sign up here for a free daily newsletter from The Conversation.If you like the show, please consider donating to The Conversation, an independent, not-for-profit news organisation.Vladimir Putin's history war where truth is the first casualtyThe painful post-Soviet transition from communism to capitalism – Recovery podcast series part fiveIn pushing for Ukraine elections, Trump is falling into Putin-laid trap to delegitimize ZelenskyyMentioned in this episode:The Making of an AutocratSearch "The Conversation Weekly" for our new series: The Making of an Autocrat. Is America watching its democracy unravel in real time? In The Making of an Autocrat from The Conversation, six of the world's pre-eminant scholars reveal the recipe for authoritarian rule. From capturing a party, to controlling the military, Donald Trump is borrowing from the playbook of strongmen thoughout history. This is the story of how democracies falter — and what might happen next.

Don't let the cynics and skeptics try to convince you otherwise: State of the Union addresses DO matter. Need proof? Foreign policy. Because many of the hotspots and crises and issues America faces around the world now have been talked about in State of the Union speeches going back decades.  For example, 20 years ago: "Tonight let me speak directly to the citizens of Iran: America respects you, and we respect your country. We respect your right to choose your own future and win your own freedom. And our Nation hopes one day to be the closest of friends with a free and democratic Iran." That was President George W. Bush — in 2006. In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" — we hear from Presidents talking in their State of the Union addresses about countries and leaders we still talk about today. In how many different State of the Union addresses has a president mentioned Hamas? And how many of those addresses were by George W. Bush? Which Soviet leader died within two weeks of which president giving a State of the Union speech - in which year?  And - you might remember, at the end of President Trump's 2020 address, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi famously and angrily and dramatically ripped up her copy of the text. But during one section of that speech, she stood up and applauded. What was the topic? So, why do State of the Union addresses matter — specifically, in foreign policy?   Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's "Extreme Mortman." Find "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Downs is a true creative in every sense of the word. From sketching original furniture designs by hand to building the finished piece himself, he lives at the intersection of craftsmanship and imagination. James has upholstered furniture for the Oval Office under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, designed dining chairs for U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, and created custom pieces for clients including Nick Saban.Tested with a 138 IQ in high school and once invited to meet President Ronald Reagan, James has always blended intellect with artistry. He's written short stories and poetry, traveled to nearly every state in America, built his own high-end furniture line, and gathered stories along the way that range from celebrity encounters to gritty moments behind Atlanta dumpsters.

Join Jim and Greg for the Wednesday 3 Martini Lunch as they dissect Stephen Colbert and James Talarico apparently lying about why their interview was not aired on CBS, Zohran Mamdani threatening to soak all property owners in New York City with much higher taxes, and a House Republican sounding the alarm about how soon Social Security is going to implode.First, they follow up on Tuesday's martini about why Colbert's interview with Talarico did not air on CBS. Colbert and Talarico claim President Trump's FCC forced the network to spike the segment, but CBS officials now say they never suggested pulling the interview. Jim is fuming at Colbert and Talarico.Next, they turn to New York City, where New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is threatening massive property tax increases if state lawmakers refuse to approve higher taxes on “the rich” and corporations. Jim and Greg point out how painfully predictable this was despite Mamdani's "affordability" campaign.Finally, they spotlight Rep. David Schweikert's warning that Social Security will implode in less than seven years if no action is taken. Jim and Greg not only lament the lack of will in either party to address the problem, but they also remind us how much more solvent the program would be if we started investing some of Social Security in the markets 20 years ago when President George W. Bush was pushing for it.Please visit our great sponsors:Help protect your family with life insurance through Ethos. Visit https://ETHOS.com/3ML to get your instant, free quote.  Every missed call is a missed opportunity. Capture every lead with QUO. Start today and save 20% on your first 6 months: https://Quo.com/3MLFind your way forward with BetterHelp when you sign up at https://www.BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month.New episodes every weekday. 

Let's talk about Trump vs Bush, Jr_ Maybe...

Ambassador Robert Blackwill — a towering figure in American foreign policy who served under Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush, and is the only person to have served as both U.S. Ambassador to India and Deputy National Security Advisor — joins the Chuck Toddcast for a sweeping and sobering conversation about America's position in the world. Blackwill, currently the Henry A. Kissinger Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of Lost Decade: The U.S. Pivot to Asia and the Rise of Chinese Power, argues that the U.S. urgently needs to recapture the kind of bipartisan foreign policy consensus that defined the Cold War era. He calls China the most dangerous rival America has ever faced, warning that Beijing is actively preparing its military for a potential Taiwan invasion — a threat that has only intensified amid China's massive late-2025 military exercises around the island and growing questions about whether the Trump administration would intervene to defend Taipei. The conversation spans the full scope of the global chessboard, from NATO's potential collapse — an especially timely concern as the Pentagon has moved to scale back U.S. participation in NATO advisory groups and Defense Secretary Hegseth skipped the latest defense ministers' meeting in Brussels — to why any Ukraine peace deal will inevitably reward Russian aggression, to Trump's puzzling warmth toward adversaries like China and Russia while publicly disparaging European allies. Blackwill warns that Trump is driving swing countries like India into China's orbit, and that the U.S. isn't headed for a multipolar world but a bipolar one, with China gaining ground across Africa, South America, and Asia. With the 2028 presidential race on the horizon, Blackwill makes a forceful case that the next generation of candidates must present a clear, durable vision for America's role in the world — before it's too late. Get your wardrobe sorted and your gift list handled with Quince. Don't wait! Go to https://Quince.com/CHUCK for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/chuck. Application times may vary. Rates may vary. Thank you Wildgrain for sponsoring. Visit http://wildgrain.com/TODDCAST and use the code "TODDCAST" at checkout to receive $30 off your first box PLUS free Croissants for life! Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Ambassador Robert Blackwill joins the Chuck ToddCast 02:00 America needs to recapture its cold war “bipartisan consensus” 02:30 Alliances contributed to American strength 04:00 Why were assumptions of China joining the world wrong? 06:00 China is the most dangerous rival America has ever had 07:15 Should we have developed an Asian security pact sooner? 09:00 Marxism tells China that for it to be safe, it must lead the world 10:30 Liberal internationalism has gotten weaker in its expression 11:30 What should we make of Xi purging his military leadership? 12:45 U.S. intelligence penetration of China has been limited 14:30 China is working very hard to prepare military for Taiwan invasion 15:45 Worse outcome: Let China invade Taiwan or fight them over it? 16:45 Biden clearly said he’d intervene on behalf of Taiwan 17:30 Trump doesn’t seem inclined to defend Taiwan 18:30 China’s military isn’t battle tested, invasion is a huge risk 19:30 How have Iraq/Afghanistan informed the debate over defending Taiwan? 20:45 A majority of Americans wouldn’t support war with China over Taiwan 22:15 What would you advise next President to do with Taiwan if no war by 2028? 23:00 Trump is unique, will take most of “Trumpism” with him when he leaves 24:30 Debate after Trump will be between nationalism & liberal internationalism 26:00 Tough to know what Democrats strategy for role in the world is 27:00 How do you rebuild alliances in a more durable way? 29:30 The American people don’t support the admins “gangster” foreign policy 31:15 If Europe is separated from the U.S., they’ll truly go on their own 31:45 Trump says nothing positive about Europe, but praises China & Russia 34:00 Hard to believe Donald Trump would abide Article 5 34:45 NATO could collapse if Trump doesn’t respond to action against Baltics 35:30 Taiwan remains greatest risk for the duration of Trump’s term 36:30 Any peace deal in Ukraine will reward Russia’s aggression 37:15 Ukraine remains determined not to lose their statehood 38:00 Putin knows he’ll never have a friendlier American president than Trump 39:00 Intelligence sharing is most valuable thing America provides Ukraine 41:00 Trump can do so much more to rupture our alliances in 3 years 42:00 Europe is more traumatized by what Trump says than what he does 43:00 What to make of Marco Rubio’s role in the administration? 45:00 Rubio has to perform an incredible balancing act 47:00 Trump is driving “swing countries” like India into China’s arms 47:30 We aren’t headed for a multipolar world, it will be bipolar 48:30 Partners want consistency from America, based on strength 51:00 2028 candidates need to present a vision for America’s role 52:30 China ahead of America in Africa, South America & Asia…not Europe 53:00 China isn’t ahead yet, but trends are bad 54:30 America’s contempt for the third world has been detrimental 56:15 Trump’s approach to the world won’t change in the next 3 yearsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chuck Todd explores whether the United States is on the verge of a new reform era — and argues that the signs are more promising than you might think. Starting with a constitutional amendment now circulating in Congress to nullify presidential pardons, backed by both a Maryland Democrat and Republican Don Bacon to give it bipartisan credibility, Todd makes the case that the pardon power has been so thoroughly abused — from Biden's preemptive pardons giving Trump political cover, to Trump intermediaries allegedly being paid for sold pardons — that the kind of structural corruption requiring structural repair is now undeniable. Todd puts this moment in historical context, drawing parallels to the reform cascades that produced the 16th Amendment (born from rampant income inequality), the 17th Amendment (born from a corruption scandal involving the sale of Senate seats), and the 19th Amendment (born when democracy itself felt like it was slipping away), while cautioning that not every reform era gets it right — the 18th Amendment and Prohibition being a case study in moral panic and overcorrection. His broader argument is that reform eras tend to cascade once they begin, that the tools to demand a better democratic structure already exist, and that if Congress shifts from debating revenge to debating reforms, that alone represents meaningful progress. Then, Ambassador Robert Blackwill — a towering figure in American foreign policy who served under Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush, and is the only person to have served as both U.S. Ambassador to India and Deputy National Security Advisor — joins the Chuck Toddcast for a sweeping and sobering conversation about America's position in the world. Blackwill, currently the Henry A. Kissinger Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of Lost Decade: The U.S. Pivot to Asia and the Rise of Chinese Power, argues that the U.S. urgently needs to recapture the kind of bipartisan foreign policy consensus that defined the Cold War era. He calls China the most dangerous rival America has ever faced, warning that Beijing is actively preparing its military for a potential Taiwan invasion — a threat that has only intensified amid China's massive late-2025 military exercises around the island and growing questions about whether the Trump administration would intervene to defend Taipei. The conversation spans the full scope of the global chessboard, from NATO's potential collapse — an especially timely concern as the Pentagon has moved to scale back U.S. participation in NATO advisory groups and Defense Secretary Hegseth skipped the latest defense ministers' meeting in Brussels — to why any Ukraine peace deal will inevitably reward Russian aggression, to Trump's puzzling warmth toward adversaries like China and Russia while publicly disparaging European allies. Blackwill warns that Trump is driving swing countries like India into China's orbit, and that the U.S. isn't headed for a multipolar world but a bipolar one, with China gaining ground across Africa, South America, and Asia. With the 2028 presidential race on the horizon, Blackwill makes a forceful case that the next generation of candidates must present a clear, durable vision for America's role in the world — before it's too late. Finally, Chuck gives his reaction the Munich Security Conference, offers up his ToddCast Top 5 “Most Absurd Awards Created To Soothe Trump’s Ego” and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Get your wardrobe sorted and your gift list handled with Quince. Don't wait! Go to https://Quince.com/CHUCK for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/chuck. Application times may vary. Rates may vary. Thank you Wildgrain for sponsoring. Visit http://wildgrain.com/TODDCAST and use the code "TODDCAST" at checkout to receive $30 off your first box PLUS free Croissants for life! Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 02:15 A constitutional amendment circulating to nullify presidential pardons 03:45 We may be seeing a structural shift at a time that it’s needed 04:30 Reform eras happen when both sides decide rules need to be tightened 05:00 We’ve seen governors sell pardons, nothing like what Trump’s doing 06:00 Trump intermediaries are getting paid for sold pardons 07:15 Biden’s pardons basically gave Trump license for his corrupt pardons 08:30 For institutional change, you need bad actors on both sides 09:30 Maryland congressman introduced amendment to override pardons 10:15 Don Bacon signed on to endorse amendment, makes it bipartisan 11:15 Nullification threshold is set pretty high 12:30 17th amendment was born out of political corruption scandal 14:15 16th amendment born out of rampant income inequality 15:30 19th amendment came when it felt like democracy was slipping away 16:15 18th amendment came from moral panic, was later repealed 17:00 Reforms can be necessary, some are an overcorrection 18:00 Structural corruption requires structural repair, requires amendment 19:15 Other areas of structural reform that could gain traction 21:00 Reform eras don’t stop with one thing, tend to cascade 22:45 We have the tools to demand a better structure for democracy 24:30 If congress is debating reforms instead of revenge, that’s progress 33:15 Ambassador Robert Blackwill joins the Chuck ToddCast 35:15 America needs to recapture its cold war “bipartisan consensus” 35:45 Alliances contributed to American strength 37:15 Why were assumptions of China joining the world wrong? 39:15 China is the most dangerous rival America has ever had 40:30 Should we have developed an Asian security pact sooner? 42:15 Marxism tells China that for it to be safe, it must lead the world 43:45 Liberal internationalism has gotten weaker in its expression 44:45 What should we make of Xi purging his military leadership? 46:00 U.S. intelligence penetration of China has been limited 47:45 China is working very hard to prepare military for Taiwan invasion 49:00 Worse outcome: Let China invade Taiwan or fight them over it? 50:00 Biden clearly said he’d intervene on behalf of Taiwan 50:45 Trump doesn’t seem inclined to defend Taiwan 51:45 China’s military isn’t battle tested, invasion is a huge risk 52:45 How have Iraq/Afghanistan informed the debate over defending Taiwan? 54:00 A majority of Americans wouldn’t support war with China over Taiwan 55:30 What would you advise next President to do with Taiwan if no war by 2028? 56:15 Trump is unique, will take most of “Trumpism” with him when he leaves 57:45 Debate after Trump will be between nationalism & liberal internationalism 59:15 Tough to know what Democrats strategy for role in the world is 1:00:15 How do you rebuild alliances in a more durable way? 1:02:45 The American people don’t support the admins “gangster” foreign policy 1:04:30 If Europe is separated from the U.S., they’ll truly go on their own 1:05:00 Trump says nothing positive about Europe, but praises China & Russia 1:07:15 Hard to believe Donald Trump would abide Article 5 1:08:00 NATO could collapse if Trump doesn’t respond to action against Baltics 1:08:45 Taiwan remains greatest risk for the duration of Trump’s term 1:09:45 Any peace deal in Ukraine will reward Russia’s aggression 1:10:30 Ukraine remains determined not to lose their statehood 1:11:15 Putin knows he’ll never have a friendlier American president than Trump 1:12:15 Intelligence sharing is most valuable thing America provides Ukraine 1:14:15 Trump can do so much more to rupture our alliances in 3 years 1:15:15 Europe is more traumatized by what Trump says than what he does 1:16:15 What to make of Marco Rubio’s role in the administration? 1:18:15 Rubio has to perform an incredible balancing act 1:20:15 Trump is driving “swing countries” like India into China’s arms 1:20:45 We aren’t headed for a multipolar world, it will be bipolar 1:21:45 Partners want consistency from America, based on strength 1:24:15 2028 candidates need to present a vision for America’s role 1:25:45 China ahead of America in Africa, South America & Asia…not Europe 1:26:15 China isn’t ahead yet, but trends are bad 1:27:45 America’s contempt for the third world has been detrimental 1:29:30 Trump’s approach to the world won’t change in the next 3 years 1:31:15 We need a consensus on America’s role in the world 1:32:00 Reaction to Munich security conference 1:32:30 Rubio sees himself as a bridge to the rules based order & Trump 1:33:45 Trump will easily throw Rubio or Vance under the bus 1:35:00 AOC didn’t seem to have the most prepared answers in Munich 1:36:30 The right wants to dunk on AOC, when Trump is far more ignorant 1:37:45 We hold political opponents to far higher standards than our own team 1:38:15 ToddCast Top 5 Most Absurd Awards Created To Soothe Trump’s Ego 1:39:00 #5 McDonald’s french fry certification pin 1:39:45 #4 Undisputed Champion of Clean Coal award 1:40:45 #3 FIFA Peace Prize 1:41:45 #2 The Tim Cook Special 1:42:45 #1 NRSC Champion For Freedom Bowl 1:44:15 Giving out these awards is a terrible look 1:44:45 The actual Nobel Peace Prize given by Machado did not qualify for list 1:45:45 Trump is desperate for historic accolades 1:46:30 Ask Chuck 1:46:45 Will we live to see a Democratic elected statewide in Tennessee? 1:53:00 Loved history lesson on importance of 1848, could you expand on it? 1:56:45 What rights from the Bill of Rights has Trump NOT violated? 1:58:45 Why aren’t SCOTUS potential retirements getting more attention?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we await key DNA evidence this hour, the sheriff in the Nancy Guthrie case reveals some people have been cleared as suspects in the disappearance. Plus, former President George W. Bush may have taken a subtle swipe at Donald Trump.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Steve Gruber Show | Collapse & Corruption: Socialism's Global Failure Exposed --- 00:00 - Hour 1 Monologue 19:03 – Jan Jekielek, Senior Editor at The Epoch Times, host of American Thought Leaders, and author of Killed to Order. Jekielek discusses what he calls “China's Epsteins,” arguing that the Chinese Communist Party scaled up the Epstein model through state-sanctioned organ harvesting. He explains the evidence behind these claims and the broader human rights implications. 27:35 – Nick Hopwood, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Peak Wealth Management. In this week's “No Lazy Money” segment, Hopwood covers energy stocks breaking out, tech sector pullbacks, a 3.7% GDP estimate, and why the Fed may hold rates steady until later this year. He also warns about capital gains tax surprises, shares real client stories, and offers a free Social Security analysis at peakwm.com/gruber. 37:57 - Hour 2 Monologue 46:53 – Michael Chamberlain, Director of Protect the Public's Trust. Chamberlain discusses what he sees as growing misconduct among America's leaders. He argues that political agendas are increasingly being prioritized over fairness and the rule of law. 56:57 – Jose Mallea, former White House and State Department staffer under President George W. Bush and former campaign manager for Senator Marco Rubio. Mallea explains why Belize is emerging as a concern in Washington policy circles. He discusses geopolitical warning signs and regional security implications. 1:05:52 – Tom Coulson, owner of Liberty Coin Service. Coulson analyzes the current price of precious metals and where the market may be headed. He also reviews listener-submitted coins live on air—send your submissions to https://youtu.be/LcYYLfQWCY0

George W. Bush's Presidents' Day MessageFormer President George W. Bush delivers a statement emphasizing humility, character, and peaceful transfer of power — widely read as a veiled critique of Donald Trump. The contrast highlights fractures inside the Republican Party between “old guard” institutional conservatives and populist Trump-era leadership.DHS Subpoenas & ICE ControversiesThe Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reportedly issued administrative subpoenas to identify online critics of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement), raising First Amendment concerns.Related enforcement flashpoints:Oregon incident: A Salem woman reportedly injured after asserting U.S. citizenship during an ICE stop.Minneapolis shooting case: DOJ dropped charges against two Venezuelan men after video evidence contradicted ICE officer testimony. Agents now face investigation for possible false statements under oath.Themes:Accountability vs. overreachTransparency vs. narrative controlPublic trust erosion in federal enforcementEpstein Files FalloutAttorney General Pam Bondi claims full compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Lawmakers — including Republicans like Thomas Massie — challenge that claim.Key tensions:Redaction confusionRelease of high-profile names without contextual clarityInternal GOP fracturesVictims' advocates alleging incomplete disclosureThe scandal continues to evolve from political controversy into institutional credibility crisis.2026 Senate Map AnxietyRepublicans (53–47 majority) grow concerned about holding the Senate.Top battlegrounds:MaineNorth Carolina (open)Ohio (special)Michigan (open)Forecast models and prediction markets show Democrats with a meaningful — though not dominant — path to flipping control. Internal GOP polling reportedly tighter than public optimism suggests.Supreme Court “Chaos Season”The Supreme Court signals willingness to hear cases that could:Reshape congressional redistricting standardsRevisit interpretations of birthright citizenship under the 14th AmendmentEven without rulings yet, the signal alone changes campaign strategy for 2026.Olympics: USA vs. Canada2026 Winter Olympics momentum builds toward a possible men's hockey gold-medal showdown between Team USA and Canada.Highlights:Elana Meyers Taylor wins gold in monobob.Medal table tight among U.S., Canada, Norway, Germany.Hockey rivalry poised to dominate ratings if matchup happens.Pokémon Breaks the Asset ClassA first-edition holographic Charizard sells for millions at auction, reinforcing graded vintage Pokémon cards as alternative investment vehicles.Themes:Millennial nostalgia monetizedCollectibles outperforming traditional equities in select casesEmotional value driving capital allocationHollywood Consolidation & Streaming WarsWarner Bros. Discovery reportedly weighing takeover talks with Paramount Global, signaling renewed consolidation pressure across media.Netflix:Launches live-interactive reboot of Star Search.Acquires short musical comedy The Singers.Expands live programming strategy.Meanwhile, Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie opens strong at the global box office — literary IP outperforming expectations and challenging franchise fatigue narratives.Themes:Debt-driven mergersStreaming profitability panicAppointment television revivalPrestige content as strategic hedge LINKShttps://instagram.com/itsnewstoushttps://tiktok.com/@itsnewstous Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The cabinet official facing heat over everything from ICE to her blanket outburst steps into the fire again. Plus, Barack Obama responds to Donald Trump's racist video while George W. Bush indirectly declares Trump's no George Washington.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

George W. Bush's Presidents' Day MessageFormer President George W. Bush delivers a statement emphasizing humility, character, and peaceful transfer of power — widely read as a veiled critique of Donald Trump. The contrast highlights fractures inside the Republican Party between “old guard” institutional conservatives and populist Trump-era leadership.DHS Subpoenas & ICE ControversiesThe Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reportedly issued administrative subpoenas to identify online critics of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement), raising First Amendment concerns.Related enforcement flashpoints:Oregon incident: A Salem woman reportedly injured after asserting U.S. citizenship during an ICE stop.Minneapolis shooting case: DOJ dropped charges against two Venezuelan men after video evidence contradicted ICE officer testimony. Agents now face investigation for possible false statements under oath.Themes:Accountability vs. overreachTransparency vs. narrative controlPublic trust erosion in federal enforcementEpstein Files FalloutAttorney General Pam Bondi claims full compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Lawmakers — including Republicans like Thomas Massie — challenge that claim.Key tensions:Redaction confusionRelease of high-profile names without contextual clarityInternal GOP fracturesVictims' advocates alleging incomplete disclosureThe scandal continues to evolve from political controversy into institutional credibility crisis.2026 Senate Map AnxietyRepublicans (53–47 majority) grow concerned about holding the Senate.Top battlegrounds:MaineNorth Carolina (open)Ohio (special)Michigan (open)Forecast models and prediction markets show Democrats with a meaningful — though not dominant — path to flipping control. Internal GOP polling reportedly tighter than public optimism suggests.Supreme Court “Chaos Season”The Supreme Court signals willingness to hear cases that could:Reshape congressional redistricting standardsRevisit interpretations of birthright citizenship under the 14th AmendmentEven without rulings yet, the signal alone changes campaign strategy for 2026.Olympics: USA vs. Canada2026 Winter Olympics momentum builds toward a possible men's hockey gold-medal showdown between Team USA and Canada.Highlights:Elana Meyers Taylor wins gold in monobob.Medal table tight among U.S., Canada, Norway, Germany.Hockey rivalry poised to dominate ratings if matchup happens.Pokémon Breaks the Asset ClassA first-edition holographic Charizard sells for millions at auction, reinforcing graded vintage Pokémon cards as alternative investment vehicles.Themes:Millennial nostalgia monetizedCollectibles outperforming traditional equities in select casesEmotional value driving capital allocationHollywood Consolidation & Streaming WarsWarner Bros. Discovery reportedly weighing takeover talks with Paramount Global, signaling renewed consolidation pressure across media.Netflix:Launches live-interactive reboot of Star Search.Acquires short musical comedy The Singers.Expands live programming strategy.Meanwhile, Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie opens strong at the global box office — literary IP outperforming expectations and challenging franchise fatigue narratives.Themes:Debt-driven mergersStreaming profitability panicAppointment television revivalPrestige content as strategic hedge LINKShttps://instagram.com/itsnewstoushttps://tiktok.com/@itsnewstous Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday, it’s fitting to reflect on the biblical perspective of leadership. Daniel 2:21 reminds us that God “changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” Every president, past and present, serves under God’s sovereign hand. Recognizing their achievements, especially those guided by faith, is a way to honor God’s provision for our nation. Intersecting Faith & Life How can we honor God by recognizing the positive impact of leaders He places in office? In what ways can you personally pray for national leaders and their decisions? Reflect on moments in American history where prayer and faith intersected with leadership—how can this inspire your own spiritual practice? Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Honoring Our Nation's Presidents By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” - Daniel 2:21 What does it take to be President of the United States of America? As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, we probably have a wide variety of thoughts and answers to this question. Still, throughout history, many men of various backgrounds, political leanings, religious beliefs, and stature have served as the President of the United States. Although we hold elections in the United States, we don’t want to ignore what Daniel explains: that God has a hand in who comes into leadership in our nation and that we really are not the ones in control. As we commemorate yet another President’s Day, it’s biblical to set time aside to honor the many men who have held the office, regardless of our political leanings. Being the President of the United States of America takes bravery and fortitude, as it comes with serious caution and risks to both the sitting president’s life and career. In Prayers and Presidents, author and historian William J. Federer presents statistics on the danger that being President holds: “Not every United States President left the White House on his own accord, with some dying in office and others murdered while serving. Four Presidents left office due to assassination, with the most famous and well-known account being that of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, and the 35th President, John F. Kennedy. Along with them, lesser-recognized presidents were murdered while in office, including 20th President, James A. Garfield, and 25th President, William McKinley. As well, 40th President Ronald Reagan and soon-to-be re-elected Donald J. Trump survived assassination attempts on their lives. Reagan, while in office, and Trum,p while on the presidential campaign trail before taking office in his second nonconsecutive term as our 47th President at 78 years old.” Regardless of the risks, from the very beginning of our nation’s birth, prayer has been recognized and encouraged by many of our Presidents, including our very first President, George Washington, who carried a well-worn pocket-sized edition of the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. Providence Forum executive director Dr. Jerry Newcombe describes how General Washington, during the Revolutionary War, felt the odds of winning were too great against us, so on July 4th, 1775—a year before independence—he sent the following order to his troops: “He requires and expects of all officers and soldiers, not engaged in actual duty, a punctual attendance on Divine service, to implore the blessing of Heaven upon the means used for our safety and defense.’" Some doubt God’s hand in America’s history and on America’s leaders. But Proverbs 21:1 reveals that, “In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that He channels toward all who please Him.” As well, Proverbs 8:15 reassures us that God has a hand in who reigns and rules on earth: “By Me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just.” God receives glory for directing ways presidents have honored Him, such as the 33rd President, Harry S. Truman, who initiated the National Day of Prayer as an annual observance in 1952, stating: “In times of national crisis when we are striving to strengthen the foundations of peace… we stand in special need of Divine support.” In April 1970, President Richard M. Nixon urged Americans to pray for the Apollo 13 astronauts who were in crisis. As well, after their safe return, he set aside Sunday, April 19, 1970, as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. President Ronald Reagan established the National Day of Prayer on May 5, 1988, to be commemorated each year on the first Thursday in May, saying: “Americans in every generation have turned to their Maker in prayer… We have acknowledged… our dependence on Almighty God.”Following the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks and Hurricane Katrina, our 43rd President, George W. Bush, declared Days of Prayer. Intersecting Faith & Life: We are honoring God when we honor His accomplishments achieved through the leaders He places into office as our presidents. By recognizing their godly accomplishments, we are expressing gratitude and glorifying God for His just decrees. Further Reading: Seeing God’s Hand in America’s Freedom Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Pete Seat, former White House Spokesperson under George W. Bush, joins the show to discuss the partial shutdown in effect. How long will it last? Who will get the blame? Midterm thoughts?

In hour 1, Ryan Wrecker is joined by Pete Seat, former White House Spokesperson under George W. Bush, to discuss the partial shutdown in effect. How long will it last? Who will get the blame? Midterm thoughts? Steve Milloy, Senior Fellow at the Energy and Environment Legal Institute and Former Trump EPA Transition Team Member, joins to discuss no more tax breaks for stop/start engines? Trump last week took a big step in further disbanding the Obama-era climate agenda by dismantling some greenhouse gas emissions tax breaks.

In hour 1, Ryan Wrecker is joined by Pete Seat, former White House Spokesperson under George W. Bush, to discuss the partial shutdown in effect. How long will it last? Who will get the blame? Midterm thoughts? Steve Milloy, Senior Fellow at the Energy and Environment Legal Institute and Former Trump EPA Transition Team Member. No more tax breaks for stop/start engines? Trump last week took a big step in further disbanding the Obama-era climate agenda by dismantling some greenhouse gas emissions tax breaks. In hour 2, Tom Sullivan, local public watchdog, joins Ryan Wrecker to give his thoughts on St. Louis County budget problems and Sam Page going to trial soon. Joe Bishop Henchman, Executive VP of the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, joins to explain why President Trump and Congress must act now on debt crisis. Frank Cusumano, KSDK Sports Director, joins to discuss SLU Billiken Basketball and other trending sports topics. In hour 3, Jeff Mordock, White House correspondent for the Washington Times, joins the show with the latest on partial shutdown, the economy, Trump ballroom renovation and Iran talks? Kendall Tietz, investigative reporter for Defending Education, joins to talk about a Maryland public school PTA that held an instruction session to train parents on how to identify ICE agents. Really? We also hear our Audio Cut of the Day!

The Hoover Institution's Global Policy and Strategy Initiative hosted a webinar to discuss Alternative U.S. Grand Strategies: Past, Present, Future on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.  In a new report for the Council on Foreign Relations, America Revived, Ambassador Blackwill argues that the United States faces the most dangerous international environment since World War II. He defines U.S. vital national interests, summarizes the history of American grand strategy, outlines and critiques five grand strategy schools (primacy, liberal internationalism, restraint, American nationalism, and Trumpism), and advances a new grand strategy—resolute global leadership. This approach merges the military power and global presence of primacy with the alliance networks, institutional engagement, and focus on legitimacy emphasized by liberal internationalism. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Ambassador Robert Blackwill is a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution, and Senior Fellow at Harvard's Kennedy School. He served as deputy national security advisor, presidential envoy to Iraq, and ambassador to India under President George W. Bush. Blackwill's latest book, coauthored with Richard Fontaine, is Lost Decade: The U.S. Pivot to Asia and the Rise of Chinese Power (Oxford University Press, 2024). Admiral James O. Ellis Jr. is Annenberg Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution, where he oversees both the Global Policy and Strategy Initiative and the George P. Shultz Energy Policy Working Group. He retired from a 39-year career with the US Navy in 2004. He has also served in the private and nonprofit sectors in areas of energy and nuclear security. Philip Zelikow is the Botha-Chan Senior Fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution. For 25 years he held a chaired professorship in history at the University of Virginia, where he also directed the nation's leading research center on the American presidency. For seven years before that, he was an associate professor at Harvard University.

                                          Listen in as Erin and Michael discuss: How Michael accidentally launched a referral engine in his first year by hosting a housewarming party for his very first clients — and walked away with 11 referrals from a single event. The "What's Next" concept: Every interaction should naturally lead to a future interaction Why events are especially powerful for introverts: you don't need 50 one-to-one conversations when an event creates hundreds of conversations about you. How Michael scaled from solo production into a "system of systems" team The future of business in the AI era: The winners won't be the ones who out-tech everyone — they'll be the ones who "out-touch" through HI (Human Interaction), supported by AI.                                                 About Michael Maher understands the power of Referrals. He is the epitome of how a life can change through the power of connection. Born in a shack in a small town in Kansas, he used his curiosity and humility to build a network that fed him and his business over 500 referrals annually in a business where 5 referrals in a year was above average. His company rapidly earned millions.  Then he wrote a book called (7L) The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals. His network spread the word about this book so fast that it became an Amazon bestseller in just 7 days and has been a bestseller for over 11 years! That book spurred a movement and then a community, The Generosity Generation. This global referral community exchanges referrals daily - and you may be invited to become a part of it. His company, REFERCO, is the foremost authority on business referrals. Michael's network and client list includes presidents and billionaires. He has shared the stage with George W Bush, Tony Robbins, Barbara Corcoran, and Magic Johnson. He's coached many people you've heard of. Today, he is here to help us.  Even though Michael has been given many wonderful titles by the business world, the titles that mean the most to him are husband and father. Michael grew up in Kansas City, and now lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife Sheri, son Max, and their dog Miles. Michael wants to help you build a business that not only feeds your family, but also feeds your soul. Today, you will get some insights on the power of referrals from someone who lives it, breathes it, loves it, and teaches it. A true master. He walks his talk. It is my pleasure to introduce you to my friend, my colleague, Michael J. Maher. How to Connect With Michael Website: www.JoinGenGen.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GETREFERRALS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-j-maher-159872366/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/joingengen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael.j.maher/ Recommended Resources  www.TheBookOnReferrals.com www.ReferralsPodcast.com

President Trump has issued more executive orders in the first year of his second term than he did in all four years of his first. These orders — which have directed government action on issues ranging from immigration to tariffs to the funding of federal agencies — have been met with hundreds of lawsuits filed in federal court.As a result, our federal court system is shaping U.S. public policy more than at any time in recent history, and federal judges are making decisions on many of the most pressing policy issues facing society today.So, what does this new legal landscape mean for American politics, and what does it mean for America's judicial branch?To help make sense of this change (and to put it in historical context), Dan Richards spoke with Judge William Smith, former Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court of Rhode Island. Judge Smith was appointed by George W. Bush in 2002 and retired in 2025; he is also a Senior Fellow in International and Public Affairs at the Watson School, where he currently leads a study group on the role of the courts in U.S. public policy.Transcript coming soon to our website.

Trey sits down with the man he credits for launching his political career, Dr. David Woodard, Clemson University Professor, political consultant and author of the book  Legacy: The Life and Presidency of George W. Bush. Dr. Woodard offers a rare glimpse at the private life of President George W. Bush, from moments of faith following the terror attacks on 9/11 to the decision-making behind selecting Dick Cheney as his running mate and ordering the Iraq surge.   Trey also shares a personal story about nearly leaving his first congressional campaign—and the call from Dr. Woodard that changed his mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices