Podcasts about Government spending

The Federal Reserve may not cut interest rates in 2026 after all—and that could have major consequences for taxpayers, homeowners, businesses and anyone carrying debt. In this episode of Everyday Economics, Center Square Publisher Chris Krug sits down with economist Dr. Orfe Divungi to explain why inflation remains stubborn, how tariffs, housing costs and record federal deficits continue to pressure the economy, and why the Federal Reserve may have little choice but to keep borrowing costs elevated. Topics include: Why inflation may stay above the Fed's 2% target How tariffs continue pushing prices higher Why housing costs are becoming an inflation problem again The impact of federal deficits on interest rates Mortgage rates, credit card debt and business loans What this means for taxpayers and the U.S. economy If federal borrowing continues to rise, taxpayers could face higher financing costs throughout the economy, making homes, vehicles and everyday purchases more expensive while increasing the long-term burden of servicing the national debt. Subscribe for daily reporting on government spending, fiscal policy, state government, taxes and the economic issues affecting Americans.   #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Inflation #Economy #Taxpayer #FederalDebt #GovernmentSpending #MortgageRates #Finance #Economics #FederalDeficit #InflationNews #BusinessNews #TheStates #CenterSquare   Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to New Zealand... land of earthquakes, stormy weather, and absolute natural beauty. Another reminder overnight of how shaky these isles can be. Hope everyone's alright this morning. It's always a bit hard to get back to sleep after a decent jolt and it sounds like you had one. We've always had storms, and damage from storms, in this country. But of late we've had more, more often, doing more damage, according to the insurance companies. We've got a bird with the flu in Petone, though it's not yet clear how that situation will play out poultry-wise. But it's, again, another reminder of threats to industry that we can't control. Like Foot and Mouth, which, if it took hold here, would be devastating. All of this is to say that there are a lot of things can go wrong in this country, and do go wrong, and often enough that it's actually quite predictable. We're top 10 countries for quakes. So, we need a buffer... need headroom for borrowing. With the election just around the corner, it's about time we heard from political parties on their debt limits. How much is too much? When will you get us back to surplus? What's your track record on actually doing that? Treasury tells us debt servicing is now the fourth-largest line item on the Government's books. Our annual interest bill? It was $3.6 billion in 2014. Now it's nearing $9 billion. If you look on a per household basis, it's tipped to be more than $5000 every year. In interest alone. Last night's quake, and the next storm, are nature's reminder of the need for fiscal discipline and plan to deal with them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the money in your account is not the same thing as real wealth? That's where this conversation starts. Dr. Felecia Froe sits down with Paul Musson, former professional investor, founder of the Paulitical Economy blog, and author of Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense. After decades inside the investment world, Paul began studying economics more deeply after seeing how the housing bubble, the financial crisis, and policy decisions reshaped the relationship between money, capital, and everyday people's ability to build wealth. They talk about the difference between money and capital, how inflation quietly erodes purchasing power, and why rising asset prices do not always mean real wealth is being created. Dr. Felecia asks the practical questions many listeners may be wondering: What does it mean when money is "devalued"? Why does a Treasury investment look safe but still lose purchasing power? Does lowering interest rates really make housing more affordable? And what does building capital look like for people who are working, saving, investing, and trying to create options? This conversation is about understanding the economy in plain language so women can ask better questions, protect their future, and build wealth that is actually real. 00:00 – Understanding Money, Wealth, and the Economy 02:58 – When Paul Realized the System Was the Problem 07:04 – Capital vs. Money 09:15 – How Money Creation Reduces Purchasing Power 12:07 – Government Spending, Consumption, and Investment 15:30 – Financial Repression and Devalued Dollars 18:17 – Why Getting the Same Dollars Back Can Still Mean Losing Value 22:00 – Be Free and Do No Harm 28:11 – How Asset Prices Transfer Wealth 35:25 – Why Lower Mortgage Rates Do Not Always Mean Affordable Housing 38:44 – When a House Becomes "the Investment" 44:08 – Paul Musson's Book " Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense." 49:14 – What Building Capital Looks Like for Everyday Investors 55:12 – Cash Flow vs. Appreciation in Real Estate 57:58 – Wealth Inequality and the Stock Market 59:41 – Capitalism vs. Interference With Capitalism 01:04:00 – Why People Deserve Clear Explanations   You've worked hard to build your career. Now let's build wealth that outlives it. You were born to build more than just wealth. You were born to lead, inspire, and rise. At Wealth B-Hers, we're redefining what it means to be financially fearless. Join a movement of bold women investing with intention, building legacies, and writing their own money rules.   Ready to take the first step? Visit our website - moneywithmission.com/wealth-b-hers/    Connect with Paul! Book: Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense Website/Blog: https://pauliticaleconomy.com/ Key Quotes: "You don't need to like it [the investment]. We need to understand it." — Paul Musson   "It's not bad people, it's bad systems." — Paul Musson

What if the money in your account is not the same thing as real wealth? That's where this conversation starts. Dr. Felecia Froe sits down with Paul Musson, former professional investor, founder of the Paulitical Economy blog, and author of Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense. After decades inside the investment world, Paul began studying economics more deeply after seeing how the housing bubble, the financial crisis, and policy decisions reshaped the relationship between money, capital, and everyday people's ability to build wealth. They talk about the difference between money and capital, how inflation quietly erodes purchasing power, and why rising asset prices do not always mean real wealth is being created. Dr. Felecia asks the practical questions many listeners may be wondering: What does it mean when money is "devalued"? Why does a Treasury investment look safe but still lose purchasing power? Does lowering interest rates really make housing more affordable? And what does building capital look like for people who are working, saving, investing, and trying to create options? This conversation is about understanding the economy in plain language so women can ask better questions, protect their future, and build wealth that is actually real. 00:00 – Understanding Money, Wealth, and the Economy 02:58 – When Paul Realized the System Was the Problem 07:04 – Capital vs. Money 09:15 – How Money Creation Reduces Purchasing Power 12:07 – Government Spending, Consumption, and Investment 15:30 – Financial Repression and Devalued Dollars 18:17 – Why Getting the Same Dollars Back Can Still Mean Losing Value 22:00 – Be Free and Do No Harm 28:11 – How Asset Prices Transfer Wealth 35:25 – Why Lower Mortgage Rates Do Not Always Mean Affordable Housing 38:44 – When a House Becomes "the Investment" 44:08 – Paul Musson's Book " Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense." 49:14 – What Building Capital Looks Like for Everyday Investors 55:12 – Cash Flow vs. Appreciation in Real Estate 57:58 – Wealth Inequality and the Stock Market 59:41 – Capitalism vs. Interference With Capitalism 01:04:00 – Why People Deserve Clear Explanations   You've worked hard to build your career. Now let's build wealth that outlives it. You were born to build more than just wealth. You were born to lead, inspire, and rise. At Wealth B-Hers, we're redefining what it means to be financially fearless. Join a movement of bold women investing with intention, building legacies, and writing their own money rules.   Ready to take the first step? Visit our website - moneywithmission.com/wealth-b-hers/    Connect with Paul! Book: Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit at Your Expense Website/Blog: https://pauliticaleconomy.com/ Key Quotes: "You don't need to like it [the investment]. We need to understand it." — Paul Musson   "It's not bad people, it's bad systems." — Paul Musson

The legislature is still in session, and a massive budget battle is heating up right now!

"Where are the refugees of capitalism?"

While everyday Australians struggle through a severe cost-of-living crisis, the federal government is launching a massive $650,000 grants program to fly selected climate activists and attendees over to Turkey for the COP 31 conference. Shadow Minister for Scrutiny of Government Waste Tony Pasin joined Gary to slam the "vanity project," arguing that taxpayer funds should be redirected to regional communities instead of funding international travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watchdog-on-wall-street-with-chris-markowski/id570687608 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PtgPvJvqc2gkpGIkNMR5i WATCH and SUBSCRIBE on:https://www.youtube.com/@WatchdogOnWallstreet/featured  Chris observes that Florida cities are overstating the impact of proposed property tax cuts, saying local governments should focus on reducing waste and improving efficiency instead of demanding more revenue. He contends that years of rising property tax collections have fueled unnecessary spending and that municipalities should learn to operate within their means.

Yesterday, I was talking about the amount of aid we're sending to places like Vietnam and Indonesia. Places I would venture to suggest that are showing more go ahead, more investment in infrastructure than we are. When you're looking at Vietnam, they're building one of the largest stadiums in the world, they've got fast rail underway, they're building a huge city to house much of its population – they're spending billions. It's also a place where New Zealanders travel to get first class healthcare that we can't access here. Now we've asked Winston Peters why we're sending money to Vietnam and Indonesia. He, or his people, referred us to MFAT. MFAT says they need time to tell us why Vietnam is in need of New Zealand money – we're waiting to hear back from them. They have been asked this before. Why are we sending money to places that don't really need it? It's the equivalent of donating to a Givealittle page for your neighbour to find out that they're building a swimming pool, but you can't afford to. I was asking this question yesterday, this morning there are two stories about the parlous state of two of New Zealand's hospitals. Could be any of the hospitals, but in this case it's Middlemore, the ageing maternity block, and Hutt Hospital. And staff are complaining about the multiple leaks and electrical faults and mould and water on the window as a result of the heavy rain – the buildings can't cope with it. And they accept that every now and then, at times of heavy rain, there will be the odd leak, but they say throughout winter this is what they and the patients have to put up with. Both of the hospital directors at Middlemore and Hutt Hospital say patient health was not compromised, services continued as usual, they're just leaks people, nothing to see here. But staff say they're fed up with working under sodden and collapsing roof panels, damp conditions and electrical issues. It might just be a leak on that one particular day and as a patient at the hospital you're only there for three days – the nurses, the doctors, the staff are working there all day every day and throughout winter they say it's miserable. There's a programme of works for our hospitals around the country, a 10 year plan, but the need is so great it's hard to know where to start. The average age of our public health estate —1,274 buildings across 86 campuses— is around 47 years. That's the average age, some will be much, much older, and the new ones, the brand new spanking new facilities, will drag that average up. The population is growing and ageing and demand for mental health services is growing. The pressure on government budgets and on the health staff trying to deliver services in decrepit infrastructure is immense. There is a 10 year programme of works, but Middlemore maternity hospital and Hutt Hospital don't feature as far as I can see on the plan. You've got Whangārei Hospital – and it's all built into stage one, two, three, and four. Waitākere, and God knows, despite the fact that wasn't in the news, according to locals, that needs a revamp. You've got Middlemore, but they're looking at targeted ED upgrades, and then stage two will be planning a new site. Stage three will be a new site or Middlemore expansion. Nothing about the maternities. Waikato, Tauranga, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, God knows that needs a revamp. Palmerston North, Wellington and Nelson. So nothing there for Middlemore or Hutt Hospital, so I guess they'll have to keep going to the paper. And if the average age is around 47 years, the need will be great. I don't know how they prioritise which hospitals get it first. Then you look at the last financial year, 24/25 New Zealand spent $943.81 million in foreign aid across 624 activities. I get that we want to be good global citizens and I get that we are wealthy compared to other nations and I'm not saying stop all aid, but come on. When household budgets tighten, you have to give less. There isn't that much money to go around, otherwise you are depriving your own family. And this is the case here on a macro scale. How can we justify donations to Vietnam, which is just thriving, and Indonesia? How can $943.81 million in foreign aid be justified when we have leaky ageing hospitals, some schools need to be completely and utterly revamped, and some of the police stations are just appalling. A lot of the public buildings in which our public servants work are just not suitable and not fit for people to be there. How can we justify that level of aid when New Zealand citizens are travelling to the very country that we're giving aid to for their medical and dental care? Do foreign aid officials realise how weird that looks? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk is being called the first trillionaire, and the left immediately demanded a piece of money that mostly exists on paper. Trump's leaked Iran deal may be peace, but it also raises the question: what was the war for? In this Good Morning Liberty breakdown, Nate and Chuck dig into the leaked 14-point Iran memorandum, JD Vance's role in selling the deal, sanctions relief, frozen Iranian funds, the $300 billion peace package, and Trump's frustration with Israel over Lebanon. Then the guys turn to Elon Musk, SpaceX, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Adam Schiff, wealth inequality, paper wealth, unrealized gains, worker equity, government spending, national debt interest, and why socialist envy keeps blaming producers instead of the state. WATCH the members-only livestream on youtube:  https://youtube.com/live/Ld1qPjDSpMg?feature=share Chapters: 00:00 Good Morning Liberty 00:30 Nate's Mom and the English Teacher Backstory 03:00 Back to Politics 03:30 The Leaked Iran "MOM" Deal 04:15 Foiled UFC Terror Plot and FISA Skepticism 06:30 CNN's 14-Point Iran Memo 07:30 Is JD Vance Being Set Up? 09:00 Immediate End to the War 11:15 Trump, Israel, Syria, and Lebanon 17:45 The $300 Billion Iran Question 22:15 Did We Fight for a Worse Deal? 32:15 The Elon Musk Trillionaire Meltdown 35:15 SpaceX, Paper Wealth, and Socialist Envy 50:30 Elizabeth Warren's Car Rant 01:03:00 Bernie Sanders and the Wealth Tax Fantasy 01:12:15 Elon's Paper Trillion vs Government Spending 01:14:45 Final Thoughts and Fed Haters Club Watch All Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi78svKlBr_8o0dDOX8DxO_Wwxu6WYhhA Watch Host Favorites: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi78svKlBr__Zu40RL7mWxCuOOe54zgy2 Join the Fed Haters Club @ https://www.goodmorningliberty.us/fedhatersclub [Martens Minute]: https://martensminute.podbean.com/ All links @ gml.bio.link Subscribe, like, comment, share, and leave a rating or review on your podcast app.

The first Michelin rankings of New Zealand restaurants are out later this month Yesterday Jesse Mulligan, the Herald's restaurant reviewer, pointed out it's going to be a very incomplete list of our best restaurants and worth little to most, including the high wealth tourists it's supposed to attract There's a couple of reasons. Firstly, geographic. The reviewers have only visited Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. So restaurants outside that area, many in our wine growing districts, won't even be visited. His examples are Craggy Range in Hawke's Bay and Arbour in Marlborough, which he reviewed as being most probably New Zealand's best restaurant. He also argues that that local word-of-mouth and trusted, down-to-earth recommendations hold more practical value for diners than anonymous international inspectors. He reckons 35 restaurants might be reviewed, and we'd be lucky to see any get a star. Now normally I wouldn't care, except Tourism New Zealand paid $6.3 million to bring the Michelin Guide to the country in a three-year partnership agreement. That's an awful lot of taxpayer's money to get a very incomplete and small guide of New Zealand restaurants that miss our best and much of our country. You know what that sounds like to me? That sounds like wasteful government spending.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeremy Cordeaux returns from the garage to tackle what he sees as the biggest political and economic issues facing Australia. He discusses the Federal Government's proposed tax changes, argues that productivity and investment are under threat, examines Pauline Hanson's rising popularity, questions the sustainability of the NDIS, criticises Labor's economic management, and warns about the long-term impact of government spending and ideological policymaking. Jeremy also reflects on historical events, famous birthdays and lessons from the past that still resonate today. Topics Discussed Interest rates and the Reserve Bank Proposed tax changes and Senate hearings Productivity and business concerns Pauline Hanson's growing popularity One Nation fundraising success Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers criticism Capital gains tax expansion Government spending and ideology NDIS sustainability concerns NDIS fraud and organised crime allegations Disability Support Pension and welfare spending Cost of living pressures Electricity prices and energy policy Government debt and taxation Donald Trump's birthday and political career AI and Grammy Award rules Historical anniversaries and political lessons Abraham Lincoln quotes and modern politics Soviet history and the Marshall Plan Popular culture milestones including Psycho and Grease See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now we were saying this last week and it hasn't gone away and it's not going to go away as the different parties announce their policies in the lead up to the election. How do we know what's true and what's not when it comes to costings? When it comes to millions and billions of dollars, how do we keep tabs on it? We can't. Nicola Willis says there's an $18.2 billion gaping hole between Labour's promises, which are reinstating the pay equity scheme, billions, the future fund and the cap on public transport, and the money available to fund those policy promises. Labour's finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds says, Really? Willis should take a long hard look at her own accounts and explain the $56 billion hole in the roads of national significance." And so back round we go again. As I mentioned last week, how are we to know when you've got Nicola Willis accusing the former CEO of Kāinga Ora of bidding $10 million more than the next commercial bid on a property back in the bad old days? He says that is an outright lie, it was $2 million more, which, you know, is $1.5 million too much. And then it turns out after, you know, a rule is put over the numbers, it was $8 million. So how are we to know? I thought we had Treasury with a sharpened pencil doing the adding up to see if the promises can be paid for, and we kind of do, but I'm with economist Cameron Bagrie who told Early Edition this morning he's in favour of an independent fiscal institution. Am I in favour of an independent watchdog to go through party political costings? I think that's a step too far. Am I in favour of what's called an independent fiscal institution which sort of sits aside the New Zealand Treasury, such as the Congressional Budget Office in the United States? The answer is yes. You know, I think we need to see a lot more sunlight, a lot more focus on the fiscal accounts, particularly issues such as population ageing and whether things such as New Zealand superannuation and exploding healthcare expenditure is going to be sustainable. Now, they will be sustainable, but the caveat is someone's going to have to pay. You know, the problem at the moment is that we tend to write out the cheques forgetting at some stage someone's going to have to pay and odds are it will be the younger generation down the track. Well exactly, because the promises made today without the money to fund them are the bills the young people have to pay tomorrow and enough's enough, they've got quite enough on their plate. It's a bit of a conundrum really because both National and Labour want to be calling the shots in the next government. They know that most voters are motivated by self interest, those that aren't tribal. They say, "You want my vote? Sure, what's in it for me?" So the parties have to make promises even though they're constrained by the fact that we're in dire straits. And so we need to know that they are promises that can be kept for those of us that care and hopefully, hopefully there are more and more voters that do care. Treasury can provide pre election policy costings but recognised political parties in Parliament are the ones who request the independent costings and analyses. It's not, you know, a public totting up as the policies come out. And rather than evaluating policies in a vacuum, Treasury and other relevant public service agencies assess the financial implications of the policies to ensure consistency and reliability. But as a voter, I think we really need a body that can independently audit each party's promise as they go and see whether they're pie in the sky or doable. And it will only really be the main parties we need to worry about. Minor parties can make all sorts of outlandish promises and then say, Oh soz, the senior coalition partner put the kybosh on them. We really wanted every household in the country to have $1,000 per week but National Labour wouldn't let us do it, so sorry about that." So it's only really National and Labour you need to have a long hard look at. But I would really like to see an independent authority with a head for figures do the sums and explain their workings in layman's terms so every voter will know what we're in for. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryan and Dana discuss two new reports that highlight concerns about spending practices among local government officials.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everyone talks about inflation.Almost nobody talks about where the money is actually going.In this week's Brief, I break down:• waste, fraud & abuse• government spending• inflation• affordability• interest ratesWhether you're left, right, or somewhere in the middle, one thing affects everyone:The cost of living.And if billions of dollars are being wasted every year, that money doesn't just disappear.It impacts inflation, affordability, and ultimately the housing market.I break it all down in this week's Brief.

The Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, or Ifac, have criticised current Government spending, and have warned that we will need to borrow money if we are to invest in wealth funds.Joining Ciara to discuss is Ifac's Chairperson and Lecturer of Economics in UCC, Seamus Coffey.

New data shows former politicians are taking the taxpayers for a ride. A new article in the Spinoff has revealed the Government has been spending around $300,000 per year to provide Crown limousines to former Prime Ministers and their spouses - even though the service goes mostly unused. Remuneration Authority chair Geoff Summers says it's unclear if these costs could be cut as a result. "All it says is that when a person stops being a Prime Minister, as the Royal Commission said way back then - it inevitably attracts obligations of a social nature that don't disappear with retirement." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, J. Peder Zane and James Varney speak with Joel Kotkin about his recent article for RCI exploring how and why fascism has become a buzzword of American politics. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney use a City Journal piece suggesting why fraud in Medicaid and Medicare seems an unsolvable problem to discuss a Wall Street Journal article detailing how autism therapy has become a hotbed of billing abuse and a Daily Caller story on rampant fraud in Obamacare. They also discuss John R. Lott Jr.'s recent RCI article on data showing that violent crime is declining even as more Americans – especially women, blacks and Hispanics – are carrying firearms and an article in the Free Press reporting on policies that have helped significantly lower the murder rate in Baltimore. 00:00 Introduction and News Roundup 07:04 Fraud in Government Spending 12:07 Rising Gun Ownership and Crime Rates 18:27 Understanding Fascism: A Historical Perspective with Joel Kotkin 25:53 The Role of Religion in Fascism 26:22 The Fascism Debate: Trump and Historical Context 30:04 Nationalism and Patriotism: A Shift in Perception 32:44 Weaponization of Language in Political Discourse 36:24 Democratic Socialism: Ideals vs. Reality 41:19 The Ascendancy of the Left in the Democratic Party 48:53 Anti-Semitism and Political Extremism: A Dual Concern Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Joel Kotkin/RCI: The Strange Afterlife of Fascism | RealClearInvestigations   City Journal: Why Medicare and Medicaid Fraud Won't Go Away   Wall Street Journal: Autism Therapy Hotbed of Billing Abuse   Daily Caller: Obamacare Enrollment Fraud May Cost Taxpayers Billions In 2026   RCI: Gun Safety: Violent Crime Drops as More Americans Pack Heat   Free Press: Why Did the Murders Stop in Baltimore?    Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com

The Government has quietly set aside $1 billion from next year's Budget but is refusing to say where it'll go. It amounts to 22 million dollars in 2027/28, before ramping up over a four-year period. Infometrics principal economist Brad Olsen told Heather du Plessis-Allan that this is not a common occurance. "That is just a little bit of an odd approach," he said. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government agencies are being urged to proactively release more information and use artificial intelligence to respond to information requests, including OIA's. This comes after it was revealed that Government agencies spent $183.6 million answering requests in the 2024/25 financial year. Although, constitutional law expert Graeme Edgeler doesn't believe this number is necessarily accurate. He also told Andrew Dickens that the rise in OIA requests is not a bad thing. "A lot of which, I'm going to be honest, is really useful and helpful information for people to know, money that is being spent on things which seem like an awful lot of waste of money." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Otago Senior Research Fellow Kimberley O'Sullivan reckons the money for the winter energy payment should be instead put towards a solar subsidy. "What I do think that we need is an off-ramp, a way to permanently reduce household exposure to rising electricity costs so that we don't have to keep paying the winter energy payment and perhaps in 20 years we won't need it at all," O'Sullivan told Andrew Dickens. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government loses hundreds of billions of dollars to fraud each year and millions more to payment errors—also known as improper payments. GAO helps federal understand the causes of these losses and works with them to reduce risks. We'll…

Today on Uncommon Sense, we're discussing what may be the most consequential political moment of Donald Trump's career. With Trump's approval ratings slipping, the Iran conflict escalating, renewed questions surrounding the Epstein files, and the assassination of Charlie Kirk continuing to reverberate through the conservative movement, many Americans are asking whether these events are isolated, or part of a much larger story.In this episode, I examine the connections I believe may exist between these developments, including my view that the Epstein files may have been used as leverage against powerful political figures and that foreign interests have exerted significant influence over American policy in the Middle East.We'll discuss:Trump's declining support among his baseThe growing controversy surrounding U.S. involvement with IranThe unanswered questions surrounding the Epstein filesThe political impact of Charlie Kirk's assassination and its aftermathWhy I believe these stories intersect in ways the mainstream media refuses to exploreMy goal is not to tell you what to think, but to encourage you to question narratives, follow incentives, and examine who benefits from the decisions being made in Washington.--https://www.bible.com/

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Irene Mpolweni, former Director-General of Military Veterans, about reports that 7,000 tablets purchased for military veterans at a cost of R53 million have remained unused for years. The discussion explores government planning, implementation failures and broader questions about how support programmes for veterans are designed and delivered. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg-based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team brings you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 6 am to 9 am (SA Time) https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show and catch-up podcasts, visit Primedia+ here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Let’s keep the conversation going online: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While presenting Budget 2026, Finance Minister Nicola Willis shared a prediction that New Zealand will reach a $2.6 billion surplus by 2028-29. ANZ Chief Economist Sharon Zollner told Heather du Plessis-Allan the prediction was 'a little bit rosy'. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pet projects or pork? Lawmakers could divide up $800 million from the Revenue Stabilization Fund…what would it go to? We break it down with Jan Moller, executive director of Invest in Louisiana.

Inflation has fallen, taking some pressure out of the economy, but it probably won't reduce the risk of another interest rate rise. Read more: Economy slumps as high inflation and Chalmers’ budget threatens downturn Inflation data lifts ASX as market trims bets on RBA rate hikes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim McTague describes robust Memorial Day shopping in Lancaster County despite high gas prices. He warns that the economy sits in bubbles created by AI data centers and government spending. (5/16)1900 HOTEL RAMONA LA, THIRD AND SPRING

Joyce talks about Government spending and restoring government fiscal responsibility. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast: Econ 101, Kevin Thompson breaks down one of the biggest questions in today's economy: Why are stock markets hitting all-time highs while consumers feel financially strained?Kevin explains how markets measure earnings, cash flow, liquidity, and future expectations — not consumer emotion. He walks through how inflation can temporarily boost corporate profits, why higher prices can offset weaker consumption, and how components of GDP like AI investment, government spending, and energy exports continue supporting economic growth.The episode also explores the growing disconnect between Wall Street and Main Street, the role inflation plays in sustaining nominal GDP growth, and why markets can continue climbing even during periods of economic discomfort.But Kevin also warns that this environment has limits. Once consumers begin materially reducing demand and debt costs outpace economic growth, the risks to markets and the broader economy increase significantly.Topics include inflation, GDP, AI investment, government spending, energy markets, debt servicing costs, consumer demand, and why stocks often rise during inflationary periods.(00:00) — Why Are Markets at All-Time Highs?(03:30) — Inflation, Consumption, and GDP(06:30) — AI Investment, Government Spending, and Energy(09:45) — The Real Risk: Debt, Interest Payments, and Market FragilityNEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

The 3AW Mornings host spoke about several examples of taxpayer funds being wasted at several levels of government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rob Ready Takes Aim at SC Government HOOK South Carolina gubernatorial candidate Rob Ready joins the show and unloads on runaway government spending, soaring taxes, dark money corruption, and what he calls a broken political machine running the state. DESCRIPTION South Carolina governor candidate Rob Ready joins Tara to lay out his outsider platform focused on shrinking government, eliminating taxes, exposing dark money influence, and rebooting what he calls a corrupt political system. Comparing his vision to Florida under Ron DeSantis, Ready argues South Carolina has doubled spending while residents continue struggling with rising costs, weak infrastructure, and failing institutions. The conversation dives into property taxes, education spending, local government accountability, campaign finance reform, and why Ready says he's self-funding his campaign to stay independent from donors and political insiders. KEY TALKING POINTS Rob Ready compares his vision for South Carolina to Florida's model Claims state and local government spending has doubled in recent years Proposal to eliminate state income taxes Calls to eliminate property taxes on cars and trucks Criticism of local government and school district spending Concerns about rising administrative costs in education Discussion of AI-based forensic auditing tools for government spending Claims South Carolina's political system is driven by dark money Criticism of campaign disclosure laws in South Carolina Ready says he is fully self-funding his campaign Discussion of donor influence in state politics Criticism of Republican leadership and establishment figures Debate over shrinking versus reforming government SEGMENT BREAKDOWN SEGMENT 1 — “Florida Worked. Why Not South Carolina?” Rob Ready explains why he believes South Carolina should follow Florida's economic and tax model, citing Governor Ron DeSantis as an example of effective conservative leadership. SEGMENT 2 — Taxes, Spending & Government Growth Ready argues state and local government spending has exploded while South Carolinians continue facing higher taxes and stagnant quality-of-life improvements. SEGMENT 3 — Education Spending Explosion The conversation shifts to school districts, higher education, and what Ready calls administrative bloat that continues driving up costs without improving outcomes. SEGMENT 4 — Dark Money & Political Corruption Ready claims South Carolina's political system is controlled by donors, PAC money, and hidden interests. He discusses campaign disclosure laws and why he refuses outside donations. SEGMENT 5 — Outsider vs. Establishment Ready positions himself as a political outsider taking on long-standing Republican leadership, arguing the system cannot simply be reformed and instead must be dramatically reduced. CLICKABLE HEADLINES Rob Ready Says South Carolina Government Must Be “Shrunk” SC Governor Candidate Calls State Spending “Out of Control” Rob Ready Targets Taxes, Dark Money & Political Insiders “Government Has Doubled”: Rob Ready Sounds Alarm South Carolina Candidate Pushes Florida-Style Reforms Rob Ready Blasts Republican Establishment in SC “Other People's Money”: Ready Slams Government Spending SC Governor Hopeful Promises Full Financial Transparence South Carolina gubernatorial candidate Rob Ready joins Tara for a wide-ranging interview on taxes, spending, corruption, and the future of the state. Ready says South Carolina has become overwhelmed by runaway government growth, rising taxes, and political insiders protected by dark money and special interests. He lays out his plan to eliminate certain taxes, shrink government, audit spending, and challenge what he calls a broken political machine. Topics include: South Carolina taxes Government spending Property tax reform School district spending Campaign finance transparency Florida comparisons Ron DeSantis influence Republican establishment criticism Self-funded campaigns Dark money in politics SOCIAL ME ...

The Morning Xtra with Tug and Los delivers conservative talk on the biggest political, cultural, and news stories of the day. Smart analysis, unapologetic opinions, and real conversations every weekday morning. Every weekday from 6a to 10a! First thing to know: Data Centers are literally stealing from homeowners. By the Numbers: It’s unbelievable what it takes to get rid of Federal Workers Even Capitalism is annoying to these peopl Atlanta's ONLY All Conservative News & Talk Station.: https://www.xtra1063.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The electorate of Farrer is holding a by-election this weekend and we’re expecting the contest will be a good one. The NSW seat, which hugs the border with Victoria, belonged to former opposition leader Sussan Ley for 25 years. Now, it’s a microcosm of the pressures the Coalition is under from independent candidates and One Nation. And as Inside Politics host Jacqueline Maley puts it, Labor has grabbed the popcorn and is sitting this one out. Also this week, RBA boss Michele Bullock made some unusually pointed remarks about inflation and government spending when she raised the cash rate again. Plus, we’ve been reporting on tax relief that’s expected to be announced in next week’s budget. Joining Maley today is chief political correspondent Paul Sakkal. Background reading: '‘F’ the lot of youse: Inside the deep political bitterness of the Farrer byelection.' ‘That’s assault’: One Nation volunteer grabs Liberal senator’s phone in clash outside polling booth Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The electorate of Farrer is holding a by-election this weekend and we’re expecting the contest will be a good one. The NSW seat, which hugs the border with Victoria, belonged to former opposition leader Sussan Ley for 25 years. Now, it’s a microcosm of the pressures the Coalition is under from independent candidates and One Nation. And as Inside Politics host Jacqueline Maley puts it, Labor has grabbed the popcorn and is sitting this one out. Also this week, RBA boss Michele Bullock made some unusually pointed remarks about inflation and government spending when she raised the cash rate again. Plus, we’ve been reporting on tax relief that’s expected to be announced in next week’s budget. Joining Maley today is chief political correspondent Paul Sakkal. Background reading: '‘F’ the lot of youse: Inside the deep political bitterness of the Farrer byelection.' ‘That’s assault’: One Nation volunteer grabs Liberal senator’s phone in clash outside polling booth Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Chit Chat Stocks, we bring on guest Lou Whiteman from the Motley Fool to discuss the future of the space and defense sectors. We discuss:(00:00) Introduction(03:27) Market Dynamics(06:42) Government Spending(09:47) Understanding SpaceX's Business Model(12:43) Valuation Challenges and Market Comparisons(15:37) The Future of Starlink and Competition(25:09) Investing in Space: The Elon Musk Factor(28:25) Rocket Lab: The One-Stop Shop for Space(33:58) Navigating the Defense and Space Sectors(40:54) Emerging Opportunities in Space Defense Tech(43:26) Understanding the Long-Term Dynamics of Defense Stocks*****************************************************Subscribe to our newsletter, Emerging Moats: emergingmoats.com *********************************************************************Chit Chat Stocks is presented by Interactive Brokers. Get professional pricing, global access, and premier technology with the best brokerage for investors today: https://www.interactivebrokers.com/ Interactive Brokers is a member of SIPC. *********************************************************************Check out Value Spotlight: Stockwriteup.com *********************************************************************Fiscal.ai is building the future of financial data.With custom charts, AI-generated research reports, and endless analytical tools, you can get up to speed on any stock around the globe. All for a reasonable price. Use our LINK and get 15% off any premium plan: ⁠https://fiscal.ai/chitchat *********************************************************************Disclosure: Chit Chat Stocks hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and nothing they say on this show is formal advice or a recommendation.

RBA Governor Michelle Bullock has confirmed the role of government spending on Australia's inflation crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Iran collapsing under pressure while China pulls the strings? Tara breaks down global power moves, economic warfare, and a fiery backlash against South Carolina lawmakers over taxes, spending, and political accountability. ⚡ EPISODE SUMMARY Tara dives into a complex geopolitical showdown, arguing that Iran is facing severe economic strain—from oil storage limits to currency collapse—while pressure mounts from policies tied to Donald Trump and Treasury leadership under Scott Bessent. The episode explores claims that China has deep financial and technological influence in Iran, including infrastructure tied to companies like Huawei. Tara connects this to global trade chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions near the Red Sea. Shifting stateside, Tara takes aim at South Carolina leadership, criticizing lawmakers for rejecting gas tax relief despite a reported surplus, while allegedly pursuing billions in new government spending. The conversation highlights tensions within the state's Republican politics and questions surrounding endorsements tied to figures like Donald Trump. The episode wraps with a lighter but revealing note on Hollywood economics, citing stars from Friends like Lisa Kudrow and Jennifer Aniston, who continue earning massive residual income decades later.

Republicans are moving quickly to fund a $400 million White House ballroom following the WHCD shooting, but the proposal has sparked internal GOP divisions and criticism from Democrats and watchdog groups. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Debt and deficits used to be political dealbreakers. So why don't they seem to matter anymore? In this episode, Gene Tunny explores the concept of fiscal illusion with John Humphreys and Professor Sinclair Davidson. They examine whether Australia is “sleepwalking” into a more precarious fiscal position, and what could happen if a crisis hits. A thought-provoking discussion on debt, accountability, and economic literacy. Sinclair Davidson is Professor of Institutional Economics in the School of Economics, Finance and Marketing at RMIT University. John Humphreys is Chief Economist at the Australian Taxpayers' Alliance.  Gene would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. You can email him via contact@economicsexplored.com.  Takeaways Governments use various budget measures that can obscure the true fiscal position (“fiscal illusion”). Off-budget spending and government “investments” may not appear in key budget figures, even when they worsen debt. Growth in national debt may be the clearest indicator of underlying fiscal reality. Public attitudes toward debt and deficits have softened, reducing political pressure for fiscal discipline. Debt may not be an immediate crisis, but it represents a slow-burning risk that could become serious over time.  Timestamps Public Debt and Its Implications (0:00) Off-Budget Spending and Fiscal Risks (4:17) Complexities of Budget Reporting (6:29) State Debt and Federalism (12:17) NDIS and Government Spending (42:50) Economic Literacy and Public Perception (54:40) Alternative Solutions and Policy Reforms (56:46) Links relevant to the conversation Australian Taxpayers' Alliance livestream, Thursday 23 April, “New Taxes and Rising Debt”: https://www.youtube.com/live/6sc7wU8vKpo?si=QG4tmu8ntyb6dspL Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee's Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED

Alan's Soap https://AlansSoaps.com/ToddHonor John's memory and the legacy he created for Ian and Alan with Alan's Artisan Soaps “John's Favorites” bundle.  Get one bar of each of his favorites for only $28.99. Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/Todd Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/ToddGet the new limited release, The Sisterhood, created to honor the extraordinary women behind the heroes. Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions. LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubeI had a brutally honest conversation with Zach Abraham exposing the disconnect between reality and the markets—and why the truth is being hidden in plain sight while the world pretends everything is fine.Episode links:The GAO Report on the Billions of Dollars of Fraud in Government Spending

Guest Richard Lyons, author "DNA of Democracy", joins to break down latest vote in Virginia on Redistricting, making the state a 10-1 state with Democrat Congressional seats. Discussion of what real government representation looks like. DOJ announces investigation into SPLC funding radicalized groups in the US. Guest Chris Towner, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, joins to discuss latest budget proposals from the Trump administration. Discussion of DHS funding, federal debt, tax rates, and working to balance the budget. 

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. https://RushToReason.com HOUR 1 Frustration. Distrust. And a growing sense that something deeper is broken. In this hour of Rush To Reason, John Rush and Steve House tackle the question many Americans are quietly asking—how did we get here, and can we get back? From COVID vaccine data and global tensions to Marxism, taxation, and government overreach, the conversation pulls no punches. But the deeper dive comes in healthcare, where skyrocketing costs, pharmaceutical influence, and overlooked solutions raise unsettling questions: is the system built to heal—or to sustain itself? Then comes the future—artificial intelligence. Will it revolutionize productivity and quality of life, or expose the widening gap between those who adapt and those left behind? As private industry accelerates, government appears stuck, raising concerns about inefficiency, vulnerability, and leadership disconnected from reality. And in the end, one sobering realization emerges—real power may not lie with elected officials at all, but with the systems and staffers that remain long after elections end. So what does real reform look like? And who's actually in control? Guest List Steve House — Business & Healthcare Executive HOUR 2 What happens when the people in power are more afraid of losing their jobs than fixing the country? In Hour 2 of Rush To Reason, John Rush pulls back the curtain with guests Jim Pfaff and John Deaton to expose the deeper forces shaping politics today. From Washington, D.C. dysfunction to Colorado's uphill political battle, the conversation reveals a system driven by incentives, fear, and a lack of real-world experience. Why do so many politicians cling to power—and what happens when they lose it? The answers may explain more than voters realize. Then comes a powerful shift—can the American Dream still be achieved? Deaton's personal story says yes, but rising debt, career politicians, and shifting economic realities raise a bigger question: is that path getting harder for the next generation? And finally, a hard truth: elections aren't lost the way many think. It's not just systems or strategies—it's candidates, messaging, and the ability to connect with voters who actually decide outcomes. So what really needs to change—and who's willing to say it out loud? Guest Timestamps 1:09 — Jim Pfaff — https://theconservativecaucus.com/ 30:06 — John Deaton — https://www.johndeatonforsenate.com/(Massachusetts) HOUR 3 What happens when common sense collides with politics, economics, and everyday life? In Hour 3 of Rush To Reason, John Rush and Jerzee Joe deliver a fast-moving, eye-opening conversation that stretches from local radio to global realities. It starts with a simple question—why does local, listener-driven radio still matter? The answer reveals something bigger: real conversations uncover truths that headlines often miss. From there, the discussion dives into contradictions in policy, from voter ID debates to government spending, and even the economic collapse unfolding in places like California. When population stagnates, but spending explodes, what's the endgame? The hour takes a hard turn into fraud, oversight failures, and pension risks—raising a critical question: who ultimately pays when systems break down? Then, in a more personal shift, John opens up about how his show operates—free from outside pressure, driven by passion rather than necessity. Timestamps 1:14 — Jerzee Joe — https://JerzeeJoe.com

South Carolina Republicans are under fire after backing a resolution honoring Vice President Kamala Harris—while simultaneously blocking tax relief for residents. Former Freedom Caucus leader Adam Morgan joins Tara to break down what critics are calling a full-blown betrayal: higher taxes, blocked Trump-era cuts, gas tax controversies, and a growing disconnect between voters and leadership. Is this incompetence—or something deeper? ⚡ EPISODE SUMMARY This episode dives into mounting frustration with South Carolina's Republican leadership, accused of prioritizing political gestures over real economic relief. Key flashpoints include: A resolution honoring Kamala Harris for her book tour Blocking state-level adoption of tax cuts tied to Donald Trump Rising tax burdens, including Social Security taxation A controversial DOT reform plan shifting costs to counties Allegations of gas tax fund misuse Adam Morgan argues leadership has abandoned core conservative priorities, while voters are left footing the bill. The episode frames this as a tipping point—where grassroots pressure may be the only force stopping further policy moves.

Former West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin (I) joins Joe Mathieu and Kailey Leinz on "Balance of Power" to discuss the latest on the Iran war, the Strait of Hormuz, and the GOP's plan to shape a reconciliation bill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your tax dollars aren't being used the way you think they are?In this powerful episode of the Know Your Numbers REI Podcast, Chris McCormack breaks down a shocking reality: Government programs meant to help people are being abused—and taxpayers are footing the bill.From billions lost in fraud to a lack of accountability, this episode dives deep into how waste, fraud, and mismanagement can happen when oversight is weak—and why business owners should pay attention.If business owners are accountable for every dollar… Why isn't the government?Discover how taxpayer funds can be misused and why more government programs may not be the answer. Understand the real impact of poor oversight and how smart, legal tax planning helps you keep more of your money.This episode will challenge how you think about taxes, responsibility, and where your money goes.••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••➤➤➤ To become a client, schedule a call with our team➤➤ https://www.betterbooksaccounting.co/contact••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Chris McCormack on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrismccormackcpaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismccormackcpaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismccormackcpaJoin our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6384369318328034→ → → SUBSCRIBE TO BETTER BOOKS' YOUTUBE CHANNEL NOW ← ← ← https://www.youtube.com/@chrismccormackcpaThe Know Your Numbers REI podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Episode 249!  The Boys are off at a Birthday Party but before they headed out to celebrate someone's birthday, they got this one in the can for you.  It's only the second visit to the "Trash Talk Tea Party!  The inaugural visit was such a hit, The Boys had to dial it up again with the few minutes they had.  That's right it's a condensed version for you this week full of tea and deets for you!  Mark & Casey are mixing it up this week and spilling lots of tea and painting the trash from recent headlines while they are off celebrating a 40th. A 40th what??  Wouldn't you like to know??  Topics this week include -- what the hell is up with all the junk mail political flyers you're receiving?? Casey's got spilling some stats and The Boys have plenty of thoughts and questions on the subject.  And the Department of Defense spent what on what????!!  Recent revelations have hit the news cycle and it's horrifying to see how our hard earned dollars are being elaborately spent. And this is on top of the mind-blowing spending reported on DHS last month.  Also -- with the war on Iran the US and Israel have aggressed, the global fallout is just beginning.  An out of touch, and increasingly disliked movie actor finds himself on the wrong side of the conversation again... he just can't seem to stop rolling around in dog sh*t.  This is just the latest moment showing off his ego and elitist personality. Closing out the Trash Tea Party, Mark has got the piping hot tea on a gubernatorial candidate banned from WaffleHouse. And of course, The Boys have a recommendation for you, despite the condensed format to get some nuggets in your stream this week.  You're gonna love this one and want to make sure you're getting right on to it.This one's a fast paced, streaming hot one for you!  You'll wanna be sure you've got a fresh diaper and a full ( and short) glass of a bold port vintage for this one.  So get 'cha a bed sheet, and pull up a seat to join your GBFFs at the table.  Get ready!  It's time to paint!!=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-Let The Boys of Painted Trash know your thoughts on this week's topics and episode! What street festivals do you attend? Do you like street fests? What is your favorite festival??Have a topic idea or story you recommend for Trash Talk, be sure to send it in to our email or through the "contact us" on our website.Follow us on:Instagram: instragram.com/paintedtrashpodTwitter: twitter.com/paintedtrashpodFacebook: facebookcom/paintedtrashpodcastDon't forget to click Subscribe and/or Follow and  leave us a review!email: paintedtrashpodcast@gmail.comweb: www.paintedtrashpodcast.com

In this episode of John Solomon Reports, we engage in a candid conversation with Congressman Tim Burchett from Tennessee. Burchett shares his straightforward views on the urgent need for voter ID laws and the troubling state of government inefficiency. He expresses his frustration with the Senate's slow response to critical issues, including alarming findings about non-citizens voting and the necessity of protecting election integrity.Burchett highlights recent developments, such as a grand jury subpoena in Maricopa County and a raid in Fulton County, and emphasizes the importance of addressing voter fraud. He draws a compelling analogy between illegal voting and serious crimes, urging Americans to recognize the significance of every vote. The congressman believes that public pressure can lead to meaningful change in the Senate, and he discusses the misconceptions surrounding voter ID requirements.Additionally, Burchett reveals his plans to introduce legislation aimed at eliminating the capital gains tax on property sales, a move he believes will benefit retirees and stimulate the economy. He also addresses the challenges of navigating a Congress that often prioritizes bureaucracy over efficiency.Next, we explore the intriguing developments in California politics as Democrat Party chair Rusty Hicks calls for candidates unlikely to win to withdraw from the race. With midterm elections approaching, a petition for voter ID requirements has garnered significant support, potentially changing the political landscape in the state. Legal expert and conservative commentator Sam Mirejovsky joins John and Amanda to discuss the implications of these developments, including the possibility of a Republican victory in the governor's race and the impact of voter ID laws.Sam provides insights into the upcoming Supreme Court cases that could reshape electoral dynamics, including issues surrounding ballot counting, racial gerrymandering, and the representation of illegal immigrants in apportionment. He emphasizes the potential consequences for the Democratic Party if these cases are decided in favor of conservative positions.The conversation also touches on the recent actions of Democrats in Congress regarding Iran, revealing a surprising divide within the party on foreign policy. Sam critiques the Democratic stance and highlights the disconnect between party leaders and the American public's views on terrorism.Finally, Shannon Davis, CEO of American Alternative Assets, provides insights on navigating the current economic landscape. Shannon explains the limitations of the Social Security cost of living adjustments and how retirees are effectively losing ground financially. He shares valuable strategies for protecting retirement savings through tangible assets like gold and silver, which historically outperform traditional investments during times of market volatility.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From skyrocketing state budgets to bizarre taxpayer-funded projects, today's episode breaks down the latest in South Carolina politics, the SAFE Act showdown, and the power of viral social media in holding politicians accountable. Join us as we unpack government spending, lewd art exhibits, and how public pressure is pushing Senator John Thune on the SAFE Act—all while exposing the myths mainstream media keeps pushing. Summary / Segment Breakdown: Segment 1: Columbia Math & Budget Madness South Carolina plans to spend 8.75% more this year, despite a population growth of only 1.5%. Discussion of lobbyists, corporate welfare, and unusual funding priorities under a Republican supermajority. How taxpayer dollars fund projects like LGBTQ+ podcasts, lewd art exhibits, drag shows, and climate research. Insight on the state's budget committee and the role of Democrats in controlling subcommittees despite the GOP supermajority. Segment 2: The Lesbian Podcast Controversy Grant funding of a six-episode lesbian history podcast through the Arts Commission. Questions raised about why conservative voices rarely receive similar support. Broader discussion on government funding for content with no market demand and the process for allocating grants. Segment 3: Public Pressure on John Thune & the SAFE Act John Thune facing unprecedented public scrutiny via viral posts on X. Debate over the vote count for the SAFE Act: 51 votes secured vs. Thune's claims of needing 60. The role of social media in holding elected officials accountable and debunking false narratives. Influence of Dave Rubin and other commentators in mobilizing public action to sway Senate votes. Segment 4: Mainstream Media Misfires & Cyber Threats Examples of CNN and other outlets spreading misinformation about protests and attacks, later corrected by social media. Highlighting the reach of social media corrections, sometimes surpassing traditional media audiences. Updates on Iranian and Chinese cyber threats, DHS shutdown, and the importance of coordinated government cybersecurity measures. Discussion on the blurred line between Democrat policies and national security vulnerabilities. Segment 5: Taxpayer Spending Debates Misconceptions about Pentagon spending on luxury items like lobster and ribeye. Historical context: comparable spending under past administrations including Obama and Bush. Discussion on public perception versus media narrative. Key Takeaways: South Carolina's budget increases vastly outpace population growth, with questionable allocations. Taxpayer dollars fund niche projects, while core infrastructure and conservative initiatives receive minimal attention. Social media is now a primary tool for political accountability, particularly on issues like the SAFE Act. Mainstream media often fails to accurately report events, but virality and community corrections mitigate misinformation. National security threats from cyber attacks are exacerbated by bureaucratic shutdowns and political gridlock. CTA (Call to Action): Follow us on X to stay updated with viral accountability posts. Check out Freedom Caucus research for real-time budget analysis. Subscribe to Battleground America and AmperWave Daily for ongoing coverage of government spending, media oversight, and legislative updates. Custom Labels: South Carolina, Budget, SAFE Act, John Thune, LGBTQ Funding, Arts Commission, Viral Accountability, Social Media, Cybersecurity, Government Spending

It's not “Presidents' Day.” Legally, it's George Washington's Birthday—and we've quietly erased the one American who actually deserves a national holiday.- This episode is sponsored by ExpressVPN. Get an extra 4 months free. https://expressvpn.com/goldIn this episode, I explain how a 1968 law moved holidays to Mondays, how retail “Presidents' Day” sales hijacked the meaning, and why Washington's character matters: the war hero who survived what should've killed him, turned down a crown, stepped away after two terms, and personally led troops to put down the Whiskey Rebellion.We also cover a modern contrast: government subsidies and incentives that raise prices, distort markets, and create the very “affordability” problems politicians pretend to solve.Chapters:00:00 Cold Open: No Friends in the Pits00:20 Show Intro: The Peter Schiff Show Begins00:55 Why It's George Washington's Birthday (Not “Presidents' Day”)02:46 How “Presidents' Day” Sales Hijacked the Holiday05:32 Washington's Early Life & French and Indian War Heroics09:22 Leading the Revolution: Beating the World's Strongest Army12:07 Turning Down a Crown & Setting the Two-Term Precedent13:39 The Whiskey Rebellion: A President Who Led from the Front16:27 Why Washington Deserves the Holiday (And the Modern Debate)19:32 Pepsi Cuts Prices 15%: The SNAP Junk Food Policy Angle23:08 The Bigger Lesson: Subsidies Raise Prices (College, Housing, More)25:34 Why Subsidies Make Housing, College & Healthcare More Expensive26:48 Trump on Keeping Home Prices High (and the Credit-Fueled Fix)28:57 Affordability 101: Demand Down or Supply Up?30:15 SNAP Benefits as Money Supply: How It Spills Into Everything33:43 The Farm Subsidy Paradox: Paying to Raise Food Prices38:31 Government Spending, Inflation, and the Case for Gold39:11 Gold & Silver Levels + Why to Dump Bitcoin40:37 MicroStrategy/Strategy and Michael Saylor: The “Legal Ponzi” Critique47:23 Palm Beach “Trump Airport” Trademark Story50:44 Wrap-Up: Calls to Action, Subscribing, and Sign-OffFollow @peterschiffX: https://twitter.com/peterschiffInstagram: https://instagram.com/peterschiffTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@peterschiffofficialFacebook: https://facebook.com/peterschiffSign up for Peter's most valuable insights at https://schiffsovereign.comSchiff Gold News: https://www.schiffgold.com/newsFree Reports & Market Updates: https://www.europac.comBook Store: https://schiffradio.com/books#PresidentsDay #WashingtonsBirthday #HistoryFactsOur Sponsors:* Check out GhostBed: https://ghostbed.com/PETER* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code GOLD20 for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy