Podcasts about Gerrymandering

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Gov. Tony Evers is calling on lawmakers to pass a ban on political gerrymandering in state legislative races. Lawmakers already passed a law banning cell phone use during instructional time. Now they're looking to expand it. And leaders in Milwaukee are passing new rules to prepare for any future visits from federal immigration officials

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

2/27/2026 PODCAST Episodes #2312 GUESTS: VA GANG + YOUR CALLS! at 1-888-480-JOHN (5646) and GETTR Live! @jfradioshow #GodzillaOfTruth #TruckingTheTrut

In this episode, we begin with the strange world of high-end audio, from banana wire tests to quarter-million-dollar stereo systems, and ask whether diminishing returns eventually overtake objective performance. We then react to Barack Obama's comments about aliens before moving to our Foolishness of the Week: Australia's $40 cigarette packs and the predictable rise of black markets and bootlegging that follows heavy taxation. From there, we turn to election law and voting rights, examining who actually has the constitutional authority to regulate elections, what the SAVE Act proposes regarding proof of citizenship, whether a president can alter voting rules by executive order, and how voter ID laws intersect with legitimacy and public trust. We also discuss gerrymandering, the structural incentives of the two-party system, and a story from a group home that raises deeper questions about civic participation and what it really means to be qualified to vote. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:30 Audiophile Cable Myths and the Banana Wire Test 03:54 Quarter-Million Dollar Stereo Systems and Diminishing Returns 06:32 Barack Obama Says Aliens Are Real 10:14 Foolishness of the Week: Australia's $40 Cigarette Packs 12:26 Black Markets, Bootleggers, and Unintended Consequences 16:55 Who Actually Decides Who Can Vote? 18:39 The Constitutional Framework for Elections 22:31 The SAVE Act and Federal Citizenship Requirements 26:53 Voter ID, Legitimacy, and Political Signaling 31:41 The Real Electoral Problem: The Two-Party Duopoly 34:15 Gerrymandering and the Spoils of Political Victory 38:50 Can Trump Use an Executive Order on Voting? 41:30 Legitimacy, Public Trust, and Election Narratives 44:52 A Story from the Group Home: When Should People Vote? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We challenge the noise around voter ID, stack Munich's substance against its theater, and unpack why a casual soccer stat lit up our comments with 4M views. We press for accountability—from ballot rules to budgets to long-stalled investigations—and keep receipts handy.• What the SAVE Act changes and why it matters• Why ID arguments about married women and minorities miss the mark• How verification and enforcement could work at polling places• State election freedom versus federal baselines• Munich Security Conference takeaways and Rubio's speech• Minnesota's ask for federal dollars after ICE operations• Pam Bondi's tone versus the demand for arrests and outcomes• Gerrymandering pressure and outside meddling in Maryland• Culture clash over Silence Of The Lambs and selective apologies• The soccer viewership stat that outdrew the Super Bowl and why it blew up“Watch Marco Rubio's Munich speech this week—you'll see why we called it his best”Support the showElsa's AMAZON STORE Elsa's FAITH & FREEDOM MERCH STORE Elsa's BOOKSElsa Kurt: You may know her for her uncanny, viral Kamala Harris impressions & conservative comedy skits, but she's also a lifelong Patriot & longtime Police Wife. She has channeled her fierce love and passion for God, family, country, and those who serve as the creator, Executive Producer & Host of the Elsa Kurt Show with Clay Novak. Her show discusses today's topics & news from a middle class/blue collar family & conservative perspective. The vocal LEOW's career began as a multi-genre author who has penned over 25 books, including twelve contemporary women's novels. Clay Novak: Clay Novak was commissioned in 1995 as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry and served as an officer for twenty four years in Mechanized Infantry, Airborne Infantry, and Cavalry units . He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2019. Clay is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School and is a Master Rated Parachutist, serving for more th...

Virginia Democrats are pushing a sweeping redistricting overhaul that could reshape the state's congressional map from 6–5 to 10–1 in their favor. Todd Huff breaks down the political mechanics, the 2020 constitutional amendment that created a bipartisan redistricting commission, and the sudden attempt to reverse it. Is this about fairness—or raw political power?Todd also revisits Indiana's redistricting debate and challenges critics to apply the same standards consistently. If you were outraged before, are you outraged now? This episode explores constitutional authority, political strategy, and the real meaning of gerrymandering in modern America.

Virginia Democrats are pushing a sweeping redistricting overhaul that could reshape the state's congressional map from 6–5 to 10–1 in their favor. Todd Huff breaks down the political mechanics, the 2020 constitutional amendment that created a bipartisan redistricting commission, and the sudden attempt to reverse it. Is this about fairness—or raw political power?Todd also revisits Indiana's redistricting debate and challenges critics to apply the same standards consistently. If you were outraged before, are you outraged now? This episode explores constitutional authority, political strategy, and the real meaning of gerrymandering in modern America.

X: @GarrettInExile @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk Join America's Roundtable radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with the Honorable Thomas Garrett, Jr., member of the Commonwealth of Virginia's House of Delegates and former US Congressman. The conversation will focus on the state of America's economy, Trump's economic reforms, US-Iran Talks, America's ties with Israel, Virginia's radical changes with major tax hikes and sweeping gun control legislation and a new redistricting initiative which may leave Virginia's Congressional delegation with a 10-1 in favor of Democrats rather than the current 6-5 Republican edge. This could pose challenges in the mid-term elections.a leading attorney, currently serving as a legislator in the Commonwealth of Virginia, former Assistant Attorney General and former U.S. Congressman. The Washington Post's Editorial Board: "Brass-knuckled hypocrisy in Virginia" Quote: _The self-styled democracy party isn't behaving democratically. Democrats in Richmond are trying to effectively disenfranchise millions of Virginians by redrawing congressional maps to give themselves 10 of the commonwealth's 11 House seats — giving Democrats control of 91 percent of House seats in a state where Republicans lost the last presidential election by just six points. Most know better, including the governor. Abigail Spanberger was among the two-thirds of Virginians who voted in 2020 to transfer once-a-decade redistricting from the legislature to a bipartisan commission. “Gerrymandering is detrimental to our democracy,” she said back then. On Friday, Spanberger signed a bill to schedule an April 21 referendum that would move it back. The governor said it was necessary “to let voters respond to extreme measures taken by other states.”_ Bio | Tom Garrett Virginia Delegate Tom Garrett earned his Bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond. After the University of Richmond, Tom Garrett became an artillery officer in the United States Army. Achieving the rank of Captain, Tom led soldiers overseas—most notably while deployed in Bosnia. Upon returning to the States, Tom earned his J.D. from the University of Richmond and quickly became an Assistant Attorney General for Virginia. In 2016, Tom was elected to represent Virginia's 5th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. Tom won that election with the most votes ever in the 5th Congressional District. While in Congress, Tom served on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Homeland Security Committee, Education and Workforce Committee and was a member of the Freedom Caucus. An expert on Iran and the Middle East, Tom Garrett's analysis and insights are enlightening as America's foreign policy and national security concerns are focused on a strategic region adversely impacted by Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism. In the years since, Tom Garrett has dedicated his life to fighting for the oppressed and forgotten not only here in America, but around the world. Tom has been working on a global docu-series project, Exile, which tells the untold stories of those who are persecuted based on their faith or ethnicity. In addition to continuing his work as a defense attorney, Tom has served as a consultant and most recently, cofounder for firms working in global energy development. americasrt.com https://summitleadersusa.com/ | https://jerusalemleaderssummit.com/ America's Roundtable on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/americas-roundtable/id1518878472 X: @GarrettInExile @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable radio program focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 68 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Tune into WTON in Central Virginia on Sunday mornings at 6:00 A.M. (ET). Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

Last week, Virginia Democrats unveiled a new congressional map that could flip four of the five Republican seats in the U.S. House of Representatives in the midterm elections. However, the Virginia Supreme Court will now determine whether the Democrats' redistricting plan can proceed after a lower court blocked their efforts, ruling “that the Democrat-led Legislature had wrongly approved a constitutional amendment that would allow for mid-decade redrawing of congressional districts ahead of the midterms this fall,” Politico reported. Virginia state Del. Thomas Garrett Jr., R-Va., joins The Daily Signal's Virginia correspondent, Joe Thomas, to discuss the implications the proposed congressional map could have on the state's political makeup heading into the 2026 midterms.

Join Jim and Greg for the Friday 3 Martini Lunch as they react to Virginia Democrats' aggressive gerrymandering of congressional districts, Russia's escalating mischief online and in space, and New Jersey Democrats once again showing how far the party continues to lurch to the left.First, they unload on Virginia Democrats for transforming a fairly competitive state into a convoluted congressional map that could give Democrats control of ten of the state's eleven House seats. Jim and Greg walk through the most absurd district lines and skewer the flimsy explanations Democrats are offering for this blatant power grab.Next, they chronicle the many ways Russia is attempting to meddle with its adversaries through cyber warfare, satellite interference, and other destabilizing tactics. New reports suggest Moscow is targeting Italy during the Olympics and is even floating threats involving a nuclear attack in space aimed at disrupting Elon Musk's Starlink network.Finally, they dissect the surprising results in a New Jersey special congressional primary where a far-left candidate is now poised to defeat a heavily favored, more moderate Democrat. Jim and Greg explain why the upset is another sign that much of the Democratic Party's energy is increasingly aligned with a more radical vision for the country.Please visit our great sponsors:Skip the hassle and book a top-rated doctor in seconds with Zocdoc. Visit https://www.Zocdoc.com/3ML today!Visit https://CoastPay.com/3ML to get free gas for a whole day. Terms apply.Unlock your healthiest skin by targeting visible aging signs at https://Oneskin.co/3ML with code 3ML for 15% off.New episodes every weekday. 

A judge says “stop,” but Virginia lawmakers keep moving forward. What's really happening at the State Capitol, and why are these decisions impacting elections, children, and families?In this episode of Speak Up Virginia, host Candi Cushman sits down with Victoria Cobb, president of The Family Foundation, to break down the latest developments:Gerrymandering amendment: What the court halted, why lawmakers are rushing it forward, and how it could affect the 2026 midterms.Abortion amendment: How vague language in the ballot question could put minors and medical accountability at risk, and what voters need to know.Gender transition procedures for minors: The shocking role of the Teachers Union, the first major settlement for detransitioners, and bills currently under debate.Other legislative updates: Marijuana commercialization, “Don't Tread on Parents' Day,” and critical local opt-out efforts.Positive trends: Young people increasingly identifying as pro-life and ways you can make a difference in your community.

In the 6 AM Hour: Larry O’Connor and Bethany Mandel discussed: Nick Minock on X: "

Robert Knight is a former Los Angeles Times news editor and columnist for the Washington Times as well as other publications. Robert has had senior positions in a number of pro-family organizations. He's written several books including, The Coming Communist Wave: What Happens if the Left Captures All Three Branches of Government, Liberty on the Brink, Crooked: What Really Happened in the 2020 Election and How to Stop the Fraud and The Battle for America's Soul in which he provides 10 Steps to restore Freedom. In this critical election year, Crosstalk reminds you that elections have consequences. The state of Virginia is one notable example because it was on January 17th that Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as the state's 75th governor. Not only did the voters elect this Democrat governor, but they also voted in the lieutenant governor and attorney general. This was in addition to the Democrat controlled general assembly and senate. Combined, this group wasted no time in introducing a hard left agenda that includes: Gerrymandering future elections. Bombarding the citizens with new taxes. Attack life in the womb. Eliminate mandatory minimum sentences. Codify the LGBTQ+ agenda into state statutes. Limiting the periods when officials can check voter registration lists for accuracy. This is some of what was discussed in just the first quarter hour alone. There's much more on this litany of legislation as the program unfolds, and you can hear it all, on this edition of Crosstalk.

Robert Knight is a former Los Angeles Times news editor and columnist for the Washington Times as well as other publications. Robert has had senior positions in a number of pro-family organizations. He's written several books including, The Coming Communist Wave: What Happens if the Left Captures All Three Branches of Government, Liberty on the Brink, Crooked: What Really Happened in the 2020 Election and How to Stop the Fraud and The Battle for America's Soul in which he provides 10 Steps to restore Freedom. In this critical election year, Crosstalk reminds you that elections have consequences. The state of Virginia is one notable example because it was on January 17th that Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as the state's 75th governor. Not only did the voters elect this Democrat governor, but they also voted in the lieutenant governor and attorney general. This was in addition to the Democrat controlled general assembly and senate. Combined, this group wasted no time in introducing a hard left agenda that includes: Gerrymandering future elections. Bombarding the citizens with new taxes. Attack life in the womb. Eliminate mandatory minimum sentences. Codify the LGBTQ+ agenda into state statutes. Limiting the periods when officials can check voter registration lists for accuracy. This is some of what was discussed in just the first quarter hour alone. There's much more on this litany of legislation as the program unfolds, and you can hear it all, on this edition of Crosstalk.

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

This episode pulls no punches. From Marco Rubio's looming warning to Venezuela and the geopolitical fight over oil

What if the country you think you live in… isn't the country the numbers show? In this explosive episode, the hosts break down newly released statistics tied to census fraud, racially engineered gerrymandering, and a looming Supreme Court ruling that could reshape Congress as early as June ⚖️

It all makes sense now. In this jaw-dropping episode, the hosts walk listeners through a stunning mathematical breakdown that reframes American politics entirely. Drawing comparisons to historic liberation movements—from the Israelites to Gandhi's India—the argument is simple but explosive: this is not a divided country. It's an oppressed majority held down by fraud, manipulation, and elite control. Using newly released census projections, FOIA-exposed formulas, Supreme Court cases, and population migration data, the hosts claim Democrats are currently holding between 42 and 50 congressional seats that would not exist under an honest census and constitutional districting

A judge recently ruled that the Staten Island and Brooklyn congressional district now held by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R) should be redrawn.On Today's Show:Brigid Bergin, WNYC's senior political correspondent, discusses what that would mean for local representation and, potentially, control of congress. 

You're a good person. You try to be a good friend, a good colleague, and a good neighbour. You care about other people, you pull your weight, and you don't let anyone down. But, sometimes, you feel you're not enough. You're exhausted, but taking time for yourself means doing wrong by somebody else. You feel like you need to destroy yourself just to avoid being a bad person.If this sounds familiar, you're not crazy or inadequate. The problem is that you've constructed a moral framework that unfairly burdens you, and you don't even realise, because on the surface it looks like you're following completely plausible moral principles. But don't worry: help is at hand! Your Imperfectionist friend here is going to show you what's gone wrong and how to fix it.

1.21.2026 #RolandMartinUnfiltered: Ala. pushes gerrymandering bill, Trump’s white genocide lies, SCOTUS hears LisaCook case A bill that would allow special primary elections in legislative and congressional races if the U.S. Supreme Court changes how race is applied in redistricting cleared an Alabama Senate committee. The Supreme Court heard arguments on Trump's attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. We'll share some of what was said. A new report reveals a disturbing fact about a police department in the south. We'll share more about the study tonight. A House panel voted to hold the Clintons in contempt in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. But Congresswoman Summer Lee is calling out the hypocrisy, noting that Attorney General Pam Bondi has also not responded to a subpoena on the matter. The Lincoln Project dropped a video showing folks that they got exacted what they voted for. And Trump is in Davos, Switzerland...you won't believe some of the things he's said. #BlackStarNetwork partner: Fanbasehttps://www.startengine.com/offering/fanbase This Reg A+ offering is made available through StartEngine Primary, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. This investment is speculative, illiquid, and involves a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. You should read the Offering Circular (https://bit.ly/3VDPKjD) and Risks (https://bit.ly/3ZQzHl0) related to this offering before investing. Download the Black Star Network app at http://www.blackstarnetwork.com! We're on iOS, AppleTV, Android, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, XBox and SamsungTV. The #BlackStarNetwork is a news reporting platform covered under Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we discuss how artificial intelligence is increasingly blurring the line between assistance and deception, from using AI tools to troubleshoot everyday problems to the growing risks of deepfake images and AI-generated pornography. We examine questions of name, image, and likeness as property, the limits of regulation, and whether government enforcement can realistically keep pace with rapidly evolving technology. We also dive into the foolishness of the week involving the Smithsonian and renewed debates over Trump's impeachments, before turning to broader political questions about gerrymandering, census data, immigration, and representation. The conversation closes with a look at election denial, political extremism, rising distrust in institutions, and how economic anxiety continues to fuel anger and division across American society. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:26 Fixing a Computer with AI Assistance 02:00 Listener Calendar Story and Patreon Banter 03:52 AI, Deepfake Porn, and Image Ownership 05:14 Grok and AI Image Manipulation 08:01 AI Guardrails 10:44 Foolishness of the Week: Smithsonian and Trump's Impeachments 12:15 Trump, Impeachment, and Historical Legacy 14:54 Does Trump Care About His Legacy? 17:05 Midterm Elections and House Control 18:45 Gerrymandering, Courts, and State Power 20:15 Urban vs Rural Political Divide 22:09 Redistricting, Census Rules, and Immigration 24:25 Census Overreach and Bad Data 26:00 Political Representation and Imperfect Systems 27:52 Why America Still Attracts Immigrants 28:47 Peaceful Transfers of Power and January 6 29:53 Election Denial and Institutional Trust 33:21 Political Extremism and Rising Violence 35:01 Protests, Policing, and Fear of Government 37:57 Midterms, Election Fallout, and Political Violence 38:54 Economic Anxiety and Political Anger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

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From Trump's policies on sanctuary cities

Jon Slavet, a tech entrepreneur and Republican candidate for California governor, joins the Chuck ToddCast to discuss why he's entering one of the nation's most challenging political races. Slavet argues that while national politics dominates headlines, state and local governance has far more impact on people's daily lives—yet California's local politics receives inadequate attention despite intense interest from outsiders. He advocates for radical transparency in government, criticizing the use of NDAs in taxpayer-funded projects and calling out the influence of union spending. Addressing his controversial pursuit of Trump's endorsement despite never voting for him, Slavet positions himself as someone who sees Trump as an effective disrupter but not a builder, and he aligns with the administration on housing policy, particularly prioritizing temporary shelter over California's $1 million-per-unit permanent housing approach. Running as a Republican in deep-blue California, Slavet believes the state's pleasant weather has masked serious problems affecting middle and lower-income residents while the wealthy thrive. He proposes declaring an "affordability emergency" on day one, scrapping the high-speed rail project, and using AI to root out the billions lost to waste and fraud in California's healthcare system. Slavet defends his decision to run as a Republican rather than an independent, arguing that party identification remains essential for effectiveness despite his moderate positions on social issues like same-sex marriage and abortion. He contends that polls show half of Californians would support the "right kind" of Republican, and he's betting his business success and willingness to challenge both parties' orthodoxies will resonate with voters frustrated by the state's affordability crisis and regulatory burdens on small businesses. 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! Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Jon Slavet joins the Chuck ToddCast 01:45 Why enter politics and run for governor of California? 03:30 It’s fraught & dangerous to run for office in this political climate 04:15 National politics get attention, state & local more impactful 05:45 Serious lack of attention to local politics in California 07:00 There’s a ton of interest in California from people outside it 08:15 NDA’s should not be allowed in taxpayer funded projects 09:45 Major government discussions need more transparency in CA 10:15 Unions raise $1B in CA and spend $300 on political donations 11:00 Why seek Trump’s endorsement after not voting for him 3x? 12:15 Trump is good as a disrupter but not as a builder 13:00 Where do you agree with Trump on policy? 13:30 HUD’s new policy prioritizes temporary, not permanent housing 14:30 Permanent housing for homeless costs $1M per unit in CA 16:00 The priority should be getting homeless into temp housing ASAP 17:00 Could you have been as successful in a state other than CA? 18:15 California’s great weather masks many of its problems 19:30 Tech doesn’t suffer from regulatory issues like other industries 20:15 Middle & lower income California’s are suffering, rich doing great 22:30 Half of California’s work for small businesses that are overtaxed 25:00 Where will you find the money to fund your proposals? 25:30 California should scrap the high speed rail to nowhere 26:30 Jon would declare an affordability emergency on day 1 28:00 California’s healthcare costs $160B, Medicare fraud is 10-15% 29:30 AI can be used to root out waste, fraud and abuse in state budget 31:00 Californians pay huge taxes on fuel & energy 32:30 Why run as a Republican and not an independent? 34:00 We should be way beyond the same-sex marriage debate 35:00 Abortion is settled law in California 36:30 Why Jon was against Prop 50 in California 37:30 Gerrymandering is terrible for democracy 39:15 Running as independent isn’t effective, people identify w/parties 40:45 The race will be a Trump referendum, how does a Republican win? 42:30 Polls show half of CA will vote for the “right kind” of Republican 43:45 CA has had plenty of billionaires run & fail to win elections 46:00 Has Silicon Valley been regulated enough? 47:15 AI boom has been critical for San Francisco’s comeback 48:45 Would you ban social media for kids under 16? 50:30 Would you ban phones in schools? 51:15 How do you convince CA voters the wealth tax is a bad idea? 53:15 How would you work in a bipartisan manner with Dem state house?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the country hurtles toward the 2026 midterms, Chuck Todd breaks down why winning in this moment may be more about margins than movements—and why messaging is about to get brutally hard. With a fragmented, exhausted electorate and a president acting emboldened despite weak political standing, Democrats face a defining choice: run as resistance to Donald Trump or position themselves as problem-solvers ready to turn the page. History suggests forward-looking messages work best, especially with independents who vote in self-interest and are tired of constant political warfare, even as Trump continues to dominate GOP primaries and sideline Congress. The conversation also looks at why Republicans’ razor-thin majority leaves them unable to govern, how Trump’s grip on the party could backfire in a general election, and why Democrats are increasingly optimistic about putting the Senate in play—with strong recruiting wins and favorable midterm math. New polling on the Renee Good shooting and ICE shows Trump-aligned tactics playing poorly outside the MAGA base, particularly with independents and women, underscoring just how volatile—and opportunity-rich—the political landscape could be heading into 2026. Then, Jon Slavet, a tech entrepreneur and Republican candidate for California governor, joins the Chuck ToddCast to discuss why he's entering one of the nation's most challenging political races. Slavet argues that while national politics dominates headlines, state and local governance has far more impact on people's daily lives—yet California's local politics receives inadequate attention despite intense interest from outsiders. He advocates for radical transparency in government, criticizing the use of NDAs in taxpayer-funded projects and calling out the influence of union spending. Addressing his controversial pursuit of Trump's endorsement despite never voting for him, Slavet positions himself as someone who sees Trump as an effective disrupter but not a builder, and he aligns with the administration on housing policy, particularly prioritizing temporary shelter over California's $1 million-per-unit permanent housing approach. Running as a Republican in deep-blue California, Slavet believes the state's pleasant weather has masked serious problems affecting middle and lower-income residents while the wealthy thrive. He proposes declaring an "affordability emergency" on day one, scrapping the high-speed rail project, and using AI to root out the billions lost to waste and fraud in California's healthcare system. Slavet defends his decision to run as a Republican rather than an independent, arguing that party identification remains essential for effectiveness despite his moderate positions on social issues like same-sex marriage and abortion. He contends that polls show half of Californians would support the "right kind" of Republican, and he's betting his business success and willingness to challenge both parties' orthodoxies will resonate with voters frustrated by the state's affordability crisis and regulatory burdens on small businesses. Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 championship winning Miami Hurricanes football teams & 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! Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 03:45 Messaging will be incredibly difficult in this political environment 04:15 If Dems only win house, it will be considered a partial rebuke of Trump 05:15 Trump is weak politically but acting like he has a ton of capital 06:00 Trump feels emboldened to play “Risk” with the world 06:45 Administration will likely back off investigation into Jay Powell 08:00 Talking to a fragmented and exhausted electorate will be tough 09:15 Elections are always won on the margins, not just by the base 10:30 Analysts project their preferences onto the electorate & swing voters 11:30 What is the most effective way to win elections in 2026? 12:30 Democrats will have to balance accountability vs. forward facing 14:15 “Would you work with Donald Trump?” a defining question for Dems 16:15 Dems have to decide whether they are resistance or problem solvers 18:00 History suggests forward looking messages are more effective 19:00 Most voters vote in self-interest, not for the greater good 19:45 After 10 years of Trump, the public is exhausted by politics 20:45 "Turn the page” messaging may appeal to independents 22:30 GOP primaries will be all about Trump, but cause problem in general 24:00 Trump can break ideological rules other Republicans can’t 25:00 GOP majority is so narrow they can’t really govern 25:45 Trump is increasingly uninterested in working with congress 27:15 “Vote GOP to stop impeachment” isn’t enough to woo swing voters 28:00 Growing number of R’s uncomfortable with Trump’s actions 28:45 Dems got a huge recruiting victory in Alaska with Mary Peltola 30:30 Peltola puts Alaska in play, making senate control more possible 31:45 Sherrod Brown has won in midterm years in Ohio 33:15 Democrats much further along in putting senate in play 34:30 Historically the party out of power picks up 4 seats, Dems need 4 36:30 Majority of Americans say Renee Good shooting not justified 37:15 Majority of independents & women say it was unjustified 38:15 82% of respondents were aware of the Renee Good shooting 39:15 57% disapprove of ICE 40:30 ICE + Minneapolis not playing well outside MAGA base 41:30 Kristi Noem is an easy scapegoat, could get dumped 49:00 Jon Slavet joins the Chuck ToddCast 50:45 Why enter politics and run for governor of California? 52:30 It’s fraught & dangerous to run for office in this political climate 53:15 National politics get attention, state & local more impactful 54:45 Serious lack of attention to local politics in California 56:00 There’s a ton of interest in California from people outside it 57:15 NDA’s should not be allowed in taxpayer funded projects 58:45 Major government discussions need more transparency in CA 59:15 Unions raise $1B in CA and spend $300 on political donations 1:00:00 Why seek Trump’s endorsement after not voting for him 3x? 1:01:15 Trump is good as a disrupter but not as a builder 1:02:00 Where do you agree with Trump on policy? 1:02:30 HUD’s new policy prioritizes temporary, not permanent housing 1:03:30 Permanent housing for homeless costs $1M per unit in CA 1:05:00 The priority should be getting homeless into temp housing ASAP 1:06:00 Could you have been as successful in a state other than CA? 1:07:15 California’s great weather masks many of its problems 1:08:30 Tech doesn’t suffer from regulatory issues like other industries 1:09:15 Middle & lower income Californians are suffering, rich doing great 1:11:30 Half of California’s work for small businesses that are overtaxed 1:14:00 Where will you find the money to fund your proposals? 1:14:30 California should scrap the high speed rail to nowhere 1:15:30 Jon would declare an affordability emergency on day 1 1:17:00 California’s healthcare costs $160B, Medicare fraud is 10–15% 1:18:30 AI can be used to root out waste, fraud and abuse in state budget 1:20:00 Californians pay huge taxes on fuel & energy 1:21:30 Why run as a Republican and not an independent? 1:23:00 We should be way beyond the same-sex marriage debate 1:24:00 Abortion is settled law in California 1:25:30 Why Jon was against Prop 50 in California 1:26:30 Gerrymandering is terrible for democracy 1:28:15 Running as independent isn’t effective, people identify w/ parties 1:29:45 The race will be a Trump referendum, how does a Republican win? 1:31:30 Polls show half of CA will vote for the “right kind” of Republican 1:32:45 CA has had plenty of billionaires run & fail to win elections 1:35:00 Has Silicon Valley been regulated enough? 1:36:15 AI boom has been critical for San Francisco’s comeback 1:37:45 Would you ban social media for kids under 16? 1:39:30 Would you ban phones in schools? 1:40:15 How do you convince CA voters the wealth tax is a bad idea? 1:42:15 How would you work in a bipartisan manner with Dem state house? 1:45:00 Chuck’s thoughts on interview with Jon Slavet 1:45:30 There’s a lack of star power in CA governor race 1:46:15 ToddCast Top 5 Miami Hurricanes football teams if ’25 team wins title 1:49:00 #1 2001 1:51:00 #2 1987 1:52:30 #3 1993 1:54:00 #4 1983 1:55:00 #5 2025 1:58:30 Ask Chuck 1:58:45 In today’s climate would it benefit a candidate to avoid negative ads? 2:02:15 Are traditional Republicans missing a chance to push back on Trump? 2:09:15 Did Biden cater too much to the far left & hurt appeal with swing voters? 2:11:15 How is public media likely to continue on? 2:13:45 Can Democrats make Mississippi competitive? 2:19:30 Are we still capable of recognizing normalization of democratic collapse?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Democrats in Washington State are openly trying to steal more congressional seats. President Trump is predicting that the GOP will buck historical trends and win this year’s midterms. Guest: Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney is running for Washington’s fourth congressional district. // Big Local: The cascades could see 2-4 feet of new snow. Businesses in Eastern Washington are preparing for the end of penny production. // You Pick the Topic: RFK Jr. and HHS are bringing a much-needed shakeup to nutrition guidelines.

Det kommer handla om en revolutionär från Marblehead, torsk-aristokrati, undertecknare av självständighetsförklaringen, att inte skriva under konstitutionen, anti-federalist, en krigshök från nordost, Gerrymandering och 2:a vicepresidenten att dö på posten. Bild: Porträtt av vicepresident Elbridge Gerry som för alltid gett namn åt Gerrymandering. Källa: WikipediaPrenumerera: Glöm inte att prenumerera på podcasten! Betyg: Ge gärna podden betyg på iTunes!Följ podden: Facebook (facebook.com/stjarnbaneret), twitter (@stjarnbaneret), Instagram (@stjarnbaneret)Kontakt: stjarnbaneret@gmail.comLitteratur:- Empire of Liberty, Gordon Wood- The Creation of the American Repbulic, 1776-1787, Gordon Wood- The age of federalism, Stanley Elkins, Eric McKitrick- What hath God wrought, Daniel Walker Howe- American Politics in the Early Republic, James Roger Sharp- The complete book on US presidents, Bill Yenne- To the best of my ability, James McPherson- American vicepresidency, Jules Witcover- The vice presidents, Edward Purcell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Over the holidays, we're rebroadcasting some of our favorite interviews from 2025. President Donald Trump this summer set off an unusual mid-decade redistricting scramble after he asked Republican-led states to redraw their congressional districts to give the GOP more seats in Congress. California Democrats responded with their own new map, which voters approved through Proposition 50 in November.  Scott and Marisa discuss the history of gerrymandering with Los Angeles Times writer James Rainey, taking us back to an earlier era when it was a regular part of California's political landscape. Check out Political Breakdown's weekly newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Thank you to all of you, who tuned in to the Latino Vote Podcast this year. Your engagement, support, and passion for Latino political empowerment have made this community what it is. As Chuck and Mike said: 2026 will be the year of the Latino Voter!-In this year-end holiday episode of The Latino Vote Podcast, Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid take stock of a political year that reshaped American politics — and put Latino voters squarely at the center of what comes next.From Trump fatigue and collapsing approval numbers to redistricting battles in Texas and California, Chuck and Mike break down why 2026 is already shaping up to be the year of the Latino voter. They dive deep into critical upcoming primaries including the Texas Senate race between Talarico and Crockett, the emergence of young Latina candidates like Eva Lopez Chavez in Utah's new district, and the need to elevate Latino voices across the political spectrum.With a surge of Latino candidates running in unexpected places like Utah, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, 2026 may be the year we build lasting Latino political infrastructure nationwide.-Recorded Dec 17, 2025.-Check out Eva Lopez Chavez' campaign announcement video. Consider donating to help her run for Utah's newly drawn congressional district: https://x.com/evaforutah/status/2000655039271247920-Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcastFollow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_VoteVisit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.voteIf you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

As we approach 2026, the NPR Politics Podcast is taking a look back at the year that was in different political areas. Today, we explore how President Trump pushed Republican-led states to redraw congressional maps with the hope of getting more Republican members of the House of Representatives, and how that led to an escalation of partisan gerrymandering throughout the country.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and voting correspondents Miles Parks & Ashley Lopez.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

In part one of Red Eye Radio with Gary McNamara and Eric Harley, Marconi award winning radio host Dan Mandis fills in for the guys this week and we begin with the Indiana Senate Thursday voting down a plan to redraw the state's congressional districts to produce two more GOP-friendly seats, rejecting President Trump's months-long campaign to pressure the Republican supermajority in the deep-red state to bend to his will. Also a big battle yesterday at the White House over the economy, Kilmar Abrego Garcia released after judge rules Trump admin lacked valid removal order and Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro warned that his country must "stand like warriors … ready to smash the teeth of the North American empire" Wednesday, a moment that coincided with the U.S. seizure of an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast. For more talk on the issues that matter to you, listen on radio stations across America Monday-Friday 12am-5am CT (1am-6am ET and 10pm-3am PT), download the RED EYE RADIO SHOW app, asking your smart speaker, or listening at RedEyeRadioShow.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com

Last week, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of allowing Texas to use its gerrymandered congressional map in the 2026 midterms, handing a redistricting win to Republicans. Mary and Andrew begin here, pointing to this decision as an example of the conservative majority's disregard for opinions made by lower courts. Then, they turn to a Virginia grand jury's refusal to re-indict Letitia James after a federal judge dismissed the initial criminal case against her — showing, in the hosts' estimation, how weak the reasoning must be for this indictment to be declined. This, before turning to the declarations filed by Kristi Noem, among others, in Judge Boasberg's contempt case, and highlighting Judge Beryl Howell's scathing decision barring immigration arrests without a warrant in DC. And before they wrap, Andrew and Mary give a quick nod to the Pentagon's IG report on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the Signal chat app.Further reading:HERE is Judge Beryl Howell's 88-page decision against DHS over warrantless immigration arrests.HERE is the Pentagon's IG report on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the ‘Signal' chat app to communicate war plans. Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Handel on the Law. Marginal Legal Advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this emergency episode, Leah, Melissa and Kate break down the Supreme Court's shadow docket order allowing Texas to use racist and Republican-skewed district maps in next year's midterms. Get tickets for STRICT SCRUTINY LIVE – The Bad Decisions Tour 2025! 3/6/26 – San Francisco3/7/26 – Los AngelesLearn more: http://crooked.com/eventsOrder your copy of Leah's book, Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad VibesFollow us on Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amid an abundance of legal issues Mary and Andrew are keeping tabs on, this episode begins with the dismissal of the cases against both James Comey and Letitia James over the unlawful appointment of interim U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan. The co-hosts work through the judge's decision before reviewing some of the procedural missteps made by Halligan in the Comey case. Next comes the news that the Pentagon is investigating Senator Mark Kelly over a video he and other lawmakers made assuring military personnel they are not obligated to follow illegal orders. As Andrew notes, “Isn't that the law? And isn't that what a president and the head of the Department of Defense want?” And last up, Andrew and Mary touch on a double standard over redistricting efforts, as the Justice Department sues California under a pretense of racial gerrymandering, while notably refraining from leveling similar challenges to Texas' redistricting plans. Further reading/watching:Here is the Washington Post piece Mary and Andrew referred to: White House blew past legal concerns in deadly strikes on drug boats.WATCH: Here is the video from Sen. Kelly and others: We want to speak directly to members of the Military and the Intelligence Community... Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump calls for six congressional Democrats to be executed for treason because the group—all military and intelligence vets—dared to post a video reminding troops that they shouldn't follow illegal orders. The dangerous outburst wraps up a bad week for the Commander in Chief: Republican defections forcing him to sign the Epstein files bill, incompetence by his own lackeys in the prosecution of James Comey, a big legal loss for Texas gerrymandering, and economic polling numbers going from bad to worse. Jon and Dan react to Trump and Republicans' freakout over the video and discuss the latest on the Epstein files, why we still need to worry about Trump's DOJ, why he'll never be a good economic messenger, and how the Republican redistricting effort backfired. Then, Tommy talks with Swing Left's Yasmin Radjy about a better way to contact, engage, and organize voters and volunteers.For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

OA1209 - Are you done with legal doomerism? Us too. Take some time away from doomscrolling and join Matt and Jenessa for Rapid Response Friday as we consider four stories of legal corruption and authoritarianism failing in the face of honest federal judges, and a footnote about how one brave prison nurse exposed even more corruption in Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell's special treatment by the Trump administration. Complaint in United States v. State of New York, Northern Dist. of NY (7/9/25) New York's motion to dismiss in U.S. v. New York (8/4/25)  Judge Mae D'Agostino's order granting plaintiff's motion to dismiss in U.S. v. NY (11/17/25)  Indictment of James Comey, Eastern Dist. of VA (9/25/25) Judge William Fitzpatrick's order granting disclosure of grand jury materials in U.S. v. Comey (EDVA)(11/20/25) Judge Jeffrey Brown's order in LULAC v. Abbot, Western Dist. of TX (11/18/25) Decision on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's motion to dismiss in 9/11 litigation, Southern Dist. of NY (8/28/25) Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do!