Podcasts about state capitol

On Wednesday, February 25, the New York for All Coalition and allies, held a press conference at State Capitol in support of the New York for All Act . The Act would prevent collusion by local governments with federal immigration authorities, ensuring immigrants—regardless of status— can live and work without fear . We hear from Cassandra Bocanegra, New York Immigration Coalition, Senator Andrew Gounardes and Zellnor Myrie, Jesus a farmworker and Senator Michelle Hinchey. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

Arizona's cost of living is back in focus. In today's episode, Jeff breaks down the $1 million rental price-fixing settlement announced by Attorney General Kris Mayes and what it means for renters statewide, plus new data showing Arizona's building permit process is adding weeks — and potentially higher costs — to housing projects. He also covers the latest at the State Capitol, including an immigration enforcement bill, a “No Budget, No Pay” proposal, and a ballot measure on medical mandates. Plus, why the FCC is now investigating the rising cost of watching NFL games. From housing to state policy and national trends, it all connects to your wallet.

Thousands of New Yorkers will converge on the State Capitol in Albany on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to support increasing taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and the state's largest corporations. We kicked of the Tax the Rich edition of The Indypendent News Hour by speaking with Divya Sundaram of Our Time for an Affordable New York, one of the groups playing a key role in organizing Wednesday's lobbying day in Albany.

Gilbert’s own McKenna Faith Breinholt, Top 7 finalist on Season 22 of American Idol, is performing at a large-scale public event at the State Capitol on Saturday.

Tuesday's edition of "Connecticut Today" featured host Paul Pacelli wondering if listeners were going to listen to, or watch, President Trump's State of the Union address, or avoid the event (00:42). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio talked about a big "emergency bill" being considered this week at the State Capitol (15:42), while CT News Junkie and Substack.com columnist and blogger Terry Cowgill commented on the national scene (27:11). CBS News correspondent Olivia Rinaldi joined us from Washington, D.C. on tonight's State of the Union address (37:22)

Send us a text and chime in!Governor Katie Hobbs has officially issued an Arizona Commendation recognizing the historic significance and enduring public purpose of the Prescott Rodeo Grounds, a landmark that has served generations of Prescott residents and visitors from across the state. Signed at the State Capitol on February 13, 2026, the commendation formally honors the Prescott Rodeo Grounds for their preservation and continued service to the broader community. In the proclamation, Governor Hobbs acknowledges Arizona's observance of Statehood Day on February 14 and the beginning of America 250, a time to reflect on the state's shared history and institutions. The commendation highlights Prescott's unique... For the written story, read here >> https://www.signalsaz.com/articles/state-commendation-highlights-prescotts-rodeo-heritage-and-community-legacy/Check out the CAST11.com Website at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network

US citizens urged to 'shelter in place' after Mexico drug lord's killing sparks wave of violence; Near impossible' travel conditions in New York as 22 inches of snow falls on the east coast; One Colorado marks 15th LGBTQIA+ Lobby Day at State Capitol; Advocates warn Medicaid work rules could hurt MI caregivers; Fewer Arkansans enrolled in ACA Marketplace.

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 23, include: Nebraska's congressional delegation reacted after U.S. Supreme Court struck down many of President Donald Trump's tariffs, State Board of Education will vote on community achievement plan tied to $8.7 million in state aid for Omaha-area districts, Nebraska nonprofit turns to online resale to help fund its services, lawmakers consider bills expanding access to juvenile counsel and limiting shackling of youth in court, debate continues over installing metal detectors and restricting firearms at State Capitol.

US citizens urged to 'shelter in place' after Mexico drug lord's killing sparks wave of violence; Near impossible' travel conditions in New York as 22 inches of snow falls on the east coast; One Colorado marks 15th LGBTQIA+ Lobby Day at State Capitol; Advocates warn Medicaid work rules could hurt MI caregivers; Fewer Arkansans enrolled in ACA Marketplace.

In this week's legislative update, Eva Andrade and former Representative Marcus Oshiro take you inside a pivotal moment at the Hawai‘i State Capitol as major deadlines reshape the future of key bills.They break down what “second reading” really means and why this phase is one of the most important moments for citizen engagement. From conversion therapy laws and parental rights to marijuana legalization, gambling expansion, and free speech concerns, this episode walks through the bills that are still alive — and the ones that just died.You'll hear insider perspective on:• Why some bills quietly disappear after key deadlines• The truth behind “low-dose marijuana” proposals• Growing concerns about gambling expansion in Hawai‘i• Free speech implications of buffer-zone style laws• What to watch next as floor votes approachIf you want a clear, faith-centered lens on fast-moving legislation — without the political spin — this episode will help you understand what's happening and why your voice still matters.

Data centers, the infrastructure underpinning the artificial intelligence boom, are popping up in communities all across the country, including in Colorado. And with each new build, come more questions from residents about what these structures mean for their utility bills and quality of life. At the State Capitol, lawmakers are choosing between two competing visions of how Colorado should approach data centers — with incentives plus some guardrails, or strictly with regulations.CPR's Sam Brasch, The Colorado Sun's Taylor Dolven and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods dig into the competing data center bills, one that offers tax breaks to lure centers here and another that requires them to mitigate their impacts. They also discuss the local backlash against these buildings when they start going up in communities, and the politics of it all. Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: Colorado bill would require renewable energy for new data centers to guard against rising energy bills CPR News: Colorado lawmakers brace for their biggest battle yet over AI data centers The Colorado Sun & KUNC: Tax breaks vs. renewable energy offsets: Democrats plan to duel over conflicting Colorado data center bills CPR News: Does the AI boom threaten local air quality? A north Denver neighborhood is about to find out Mountain West News Bureau: Wired, Wired West: What happens with AI data centers move in Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Additional editorial support on this episode provided by Tegan Wendland.

Rep. Scott Bottoms (R-15) joins to respond to Kyle Clark of 9 News ambushing him at the state capitol for an interview regarding the GOP candidate for governor's claim that a pedophile ring ran through the House, Senate, and Governor Jared Polis's office. He also reacts to criticism from fellow Republicans on his handling of the matter as a mandatory reporter in his capacity as a minister.Scott Bottoms for Colorado Governor - Reclaim ColoradoCallers react to the interview to close out the hour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colorado state representative Scott Bottoms joins me to discuss his claims of pedophile rings at the State Capitol.

A new study shows Medicaid growth is killing our budget, Aurora is looking to slide backwards, and Hersey is ruining Reese's Cups. Plus Rep. Scott Bottoms joins to discuss his claims of pedophile rings at the State Capitol.

We remember Jesse Jackson for carrying the tourch for the multi-racial working class long after the hopes of the Civil Rights Era faded, his prophetic oratory which still speaks to us today, and his special connection to Wisconsin. We highlight the victory for health care access for mothers, children, and women with a higher risk of breast cancer, Boss Vos finally relents to significant pressure from the public and other Republicans and allows a vote on postpartum Medicaid and cost-free breast cancer screening bills. We welcome Peter Rickman, president of the MASH union to discuss the new $20 Wage bill that will be introduced next week, Tuesday, at 11AM, at the State Capitol, Senate Parlor. Robert educates us on an important lawsuit against Trump's climate-denying EPA by health and climate groups over the dangerous repeal of rule supporting climate protections. We discuss an important public hearing held this week for four Data Center bills. Citizen Action members joined dozens of community leaders and data center activists who want a pause on new construction and sensible public accountability for future data centers.

A crackdown on student-led protests against I.C.E. isn't stopping kids in OKC.Despite a super minority at the State Capitol, Democratic bills are advancing.We remember an Osage chief who walked on last week.You can find the KOSU Daily wherever you get your podcasts, you can also subscribe, rate us and leave a comment.You can keep up to date on all the latest news throughout the day at KOSU.org and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Tik Tok and Instagram at KOSU Radio.This is The KOSU Daily, Oklahoma news, every weekday.

This week on Faith & Family First, Eva Andrade and former House Majority Leader Marcus Oshiro take you inside the Hawaiʻi State Capitol for a fast-moving legislative update you won't hear anywhere else.From expanding gender-related healthcare protections and free speech concerns outside medical facilities to the growing push for legalized sports betting, this episode breaks down the biggest bills moving right now — and what they could mean for families, keiki, and the future of Hawaiʻi.Marcus brings an insider's perspective from his years in legislative leadership, helping listeners understand not just what the bills say, but how the process really works behind the scenes. Together, Eva and Marcus walk through the real-time decisions shaping our state and explain why staying informed and engaged matters now more than ever.If you've ever wondered how laws move through the Capitol — and why your voice still matters — this episode gives you a clear, honest, and faith-centered look at what's unfolding and what's coming next.Stay informed. Stay engaged. And as always — keep the faith.Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!

This week, New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado suspended his campaign for governor after struggling to lock in support from key progressive leaders. Meanwhile, on the Republican side, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman officially secured the party's backing and — after a bumpy process — unveiled his running mate. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and political director Bob Hardt break down the state of the race for governor. Then, Mayor Zohran Mamdani headed to Albany for what's known as "Tin Cup Day," making the case for new tax hikes on wealthy New Yorkers and businesses. The mayor also struck a somewhat less pessimistic tone about the city's budget outlook, a shift from his earlier warnings of a $12 billion budget deficit. The "Off Topic" team weighs in on Mamdani's trip to the State Capitol and what it signals about the city's financial future.

This week, Tim and Matt talk about California's turn in the national spotlight hosting Super Bowl 60, including the controversy over the halftime entertainment and the huge California tax bill winning quarterback Sam Darnold faces. They also talk about the latest developments in the governor's race, the debate over the mileage tax at the State Capitol and California losing another billionaire due to the proposed wealth tax.

Rep. Scott Bottoms (R-15) stuns onlookers at a GOP event in Colorado Springs, alleging the existence of a child sex trafficking ring at the state capitol. Is there enough evidence to prove this? And setting that aside, Democrats continue to vote against harsher sentences for child sex traffickers in the state. Why?

Host Paul Pacelli opened Wednesday's mid-week edition of "Connecticut Today" wondering why there's a constant debate about education funding in Connecticut. What's the breaking point for state taxpayers? (00:47). Hearst Connecticut Media Senior Columnist and Editor Dan Haar dropped by to chat about the growing election year tax-and-spending battle at the State Capitol (16:17). Columnist and blogger Chris Powell joined us for his monthly visit to talk about Gov. Ned Lamont's tone at his recent State of the State Address (25:38). CBS News Congressional correspondent Nikole Killion briefed us on the current ongoing negotiations to fund the Department of Homeland Security (36:17)

Host Paul Pacelli welcomed Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio to Tuesday's "Connecticut Today" to talk about so-called "emergency" funding at the State Capitol that evades the normal legislative process (00:44). We welcomed former GOP State Sen. Joe Markley to talk about the 2026 Connecticut gubernatorial race (08:25). CBS News Tech. contributor Ian Sherr commented on a pair of high-profile social media trials that could eventually affect Connecticut (19:49), while Paul also offered some of his thoughts on home security in light of the Nancy Guthrie missing person case (26:05)

President Trump has made it clear: He has beef with Colorado, from his ire over the presidential portrait that once hung in the State Capitol to mail-in balloting to immigration policy. We delve into that with Purplish. Then, long before the COVID pandemic, novelist Peter Heller imagined a world wiped out by a virus, and some lonely Colorado survivors, in his debut novel, "The Dog Star" in 2012. Now it's headed to the big screen. 

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was in Nashville this week, speaking at both the State Capitol and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association convention. During his remarks, he highlighted the Trump administration's health care policies and promoted the new food pyramid, which emphasizes a high-protein diet.

Today, we'll analyze the past week's key developments, including: a controversial bill regulating weapons in the State Capitol, and a crucial bill that will override voters' approved minimum wage law. We'll also preview next week, focusing on upcoming essential legislation to protect Nebraska workers and much more.

In this episode of Faith and Family First, host Eva Andrade and former State Representative Marcus Oshiro break down what's happening at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol — and why people of faith must stay engaged.From abortion-related legislation and IVF insurance mandates to marijuana policy, gambling expansion, and dangerous prediction markets, Eva and Marcus offer “inside baseball” from decades of legislative experience. They explain what passed, what stalled, what's coming next, and how everyday citizens can raise their voices during this critical season.This conversation is both practical and deeply rooted in faith, reminding listeners that citizenship is not separate from belief — it's part of living it out. Whether you've never testified before or have followed the Legislature for years, this episode equips you to stay informed, engaged, and faithful in the public square.

First, Mark Dunlea continues his coverage from a rally at the State Capitol demanding $175 million in funding for immigration legal services. Then, we hear from the curator of “The Black Experience in the Adirondacks” exhibition about partnering with the Sanctuary on the collection of archives. Later on, Andrea Cunliffe speaks with musicians at the Troy Farmers Market. After that, OM Quillio joins us for an in studio interview about her songwriting career and her upcoming EP release at Stacks coffee shop in Troy. Finally, we celebrate the life of the recently passed Hudson Talbott with a segment where Andrea Cunliffe spoke with him about his book “A Walk In the Woods”. Co-Hosts: Jacob Boston. Richard Sleeper | Engineer - Jacob Boston

Again and again, President Trump has made it known he has a beef with Colorado, whether it's anger over his presidential portrait that was displayed at the State Capitol or the state's policies on immigration, artificial intelligence and voting. And it's not simply talk. Since Trump has returned to the White House, Colorado is losing a military command, and a major scientific research center is in jeopardy, as are hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding.Democrats say Trump's actions add up to retaliation. Others, particularly on the right, say this is a situation the state has brought upon itself due to its policies. Regardless of the political lens you look through, Trump has made it clear he doesn't like a lot of things about this blue state. CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Taylor Dolven and CPR's Caitlyn Kim look at the president's different actions against the state, how Colorado leaders are responding to those actions and how some are pushing back.Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: Policy differences or punishment? How Colorado lawmakers view Trump's actions towards the state CPR News: From a South Dakota stage to a national platform: The winding road that got Tina Peters on the President's radar The Colorado Sun: Trump administration must keep funding Colorado's poorest families, judge rules in temporary reprieve CPR News: House refuses to override Trump veto of Colorado water project CPR News: As the Trump administration targets NCAR, scientists rally to defend the ‘mothership' of atmospheric research The Colorado Sun: Trump administration cancels $109M in environmentally focused transportation grants for Colorado CPR News: FEMA denies Colorado disaster declaration requests Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner.

Budget concerns are looming at the State Capitol.Another conservative throws her hat in the ring for state superintendent.A surplus of wheat is impacting Oklahoma farmers.You can find the KOSU Daily wherever you get your podcasts, you can also subscribe, rate us and leave a comment.You can keep up to date on all the latest news throughout the day at KOSU.org and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Tik Tok and Instagram at KOSU Radio.This is The KOSU Daily, Oklahoma news, 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.

The Campaign for Access, Representation, and Equity for Immigrant Families (CARE4IF) Coalition, rallied at the State Capitol on Tuesday, February 3, to demand $175 million in funding for immigration legal services and the passage of the Access to Representation Act (ARA) and the Building Up Immigrant Legal Defense (BUILD) Act for the 2026 New York State Legislative Session. We hear first from Jahrain Roldan of the NY Immigration Coalition, followed by Senator Liu, Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia, Senator Rachel May, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant-Forrest and Senator Robert Jackson. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

It's Tuesday, January 27th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Iran Int'l News reports 36,500 protestors killed by Islamic regime As The Worldview reported yesterday, the latest report of the death count for the recent Iranian protests is now at 36,500, according to Iran International News.   (audio of Iranian officials shooting unarmed protestors) This information reportedly comes from Interior Ministry documents. The government carried out 4,000 clashes at various locations around the country over a two-day period earlier in the month. Iran's Health Ministry also revealed that the hospitals in the country performed 13,000 surgeries following the protests. Iran's internet blackout is going into its 19th day today.  Iran International also reports that government officials are still carrying out “extrajudicial killings, deaths under torture, and the systematic mistreatment of detainees and their families.” Several of our sources have reported multiple Christians killed in the conflict.  Communist Chinese president purged military generals China's President and Communist Party General Secretary Xi Jinping has completed his purge of military generals, beginning with top brass Zhang Youxia and at least 17 other generals, reports NTDTV.com. The Economist called this “the largest political purge of the military's top ranks since Mao Zedong's death in 1976.” Assaults on ICE officers increased by 1,300% in 2025 over 2024 Public protests are increasing in the United States. Last year, the Crowd Counting Consortium counted 10,700 protests in the U.S. That's a 133% increase over 2024. So far this month, there have been 628 protests, the largest of which have centered in Minnesota, Illinois, and California. Disturbingly, the protests have increased in violence. The Department of Homeland Security recently reported a 1,300% increase in assaults against I.C.E. officers in 2025 (over the previous year), and a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks. Rest assured, where human justice may fail, Ecclesiastes 12:14 assures us that “God shall bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” Shooting death of Minneapolis man sparks gun control debate The January 24th fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by law enforcement has sparked a debate on gun control. Apparently, the protester was armed at the time of his encounter with the I.C.E. agent. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli took to X, commenting that, "If you approach law enforcement with a gun, there is a high likelihood they will be legally justified in shooting you."  However, the pro-gun group, the National Rifle Association, said, "Responsible public voices should be awaiting a full investigation, not making generalizations and demonizing law-abiding citizens.” Plus, Gun Owners for America noted, "The Second Amendment protects Americans' right to bear arms while protesting ‒ a right the federal government must not infringe upon." GOP Rep. Thomas Massie and Barack Obama weigh in on ICE killing GOP U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky also jumped into the fray. He said, ”Carrying a firearm is not a death sentence;  it's a Constitutionally-protected, God-given right. And, if you don't understand this, you have no business in law enforcement or government." No comment from the liberal media on Mr. Pretti's choice to carry a gun to the protest. Then, former President Barack Obama took to X on Sunday to encourage the American public to “support and draw inspiration from” what he calls “the peaceful protests in Minneapolis.” Satan worshippers thank Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz Speaking of Minnesota, Republican State Representative Pam Altendorf revealed on video a disturbing display recognizing Satan in the state Capitol. ALTENDORF: “As I was leaving my committee meeting today here earlier, I noticed that there is a new display here at the State Capitol, and it's for Governor [Tim] Walz.” The inscription says, “The Democratic Coalition of Satan Worshippers thanks Gov. Tim Walz for not standing in the way of spreading Satanism in the state Capitol building.” Rep. Altendorf concluded with this. ALTENDORF: “Yes, everyone, this is true. I am live, not making this up. You can't make this up. (laughs) I don't know why a governor of a state would want this plaque, but there it is. “The Satan worshipers have thanked Governor Tim Walz, and let me repeat this.  The last line says, ‘Satan has a special place for you.' I'm speechless.” In Exodus 20:3, God revealed to Moses atop Mt. Sinai, “You shall have no other gods before Me.” Charismatic leader accused of “fabricated” prophecies and sexual sin The charismatic church is taking more hits from reports concerning alleged scandalous activities of a homosexual nature. Shawn Bolz was platformed by Bethel over a period of ten years.  Bethel leadership now admits to have continued platforming Bolz despite their knowing of his “fabricated” prophecies and alleged sexual sin, reports CBN News. Multiple Christian news organizations have headlined this new revelation in an ongoing series of scandals in the evangelical/charismatic church involving Bill Hybels, Carl Lentz, Mike Bickel, Brian Houston, T.D. Jakes, Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, and Jimmy Swaggart.  The deluge of scandals has taken its toll on the nation. Public trust in pastors here is now the lowest in recorded history. According to Lifeway Research, only 27% of Americans say they have a high trust in pastors, down from an average of 56% between 2000 and 2009. Here's a reminder from 1 Corinthians 11:31 and 32. “If we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged.  But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.” Gold and silver prices soar Gold and silver prices continue to soar. Now, $5,100 per ounce for gold, up from $2,600 just a year ago, reports Reuters. And silver today is $110 per pounce, up from $30 a year ago. 36 states consider anti-transgender bills And finally, at last count, 36 state governments are floating 366 bills which would put the brakes on the advance of “transgender rights,” limit the public display of drag queens, and allow religious exemptions for churches, schools, and businesses that are morally opposed to homosexuality and transgenderism. Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, January 27th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure?

On Friday Jan. 23, a massive rally was held in Minneapolis to demand the ICE leave. A support rally was held at the State Capitol in Albany, with a heavy emphasis on teachers. The first speaker was Waz Faizy., who had a 11-year old student detained by ICE. We also hear from the head of the local teachers association, as well as local officials such as Sen. Pat Fahy, Assemblymember Romero and Cong. Paul Tonko. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage from NY Immigrant Coalition's rally at State Capitol to advocate for funding and policy protections for immigrant New Yorkers. Then, the Sanctuary was nominated for a HUDSY Award! Sina Basila Hickey talks to HUDSY about this community celebration. Later on, UAlbany student Justin Hurley speaks with the graduate director of sociology at the college about the challenges facing immigrant students today. After that, Jean Fei of the Social Justice Center in Albany joins us to talk about the upcoming Community Care Wellness Series. Finally, Caleb Taran speaks with singer-songwriter Grace Corbett about her perspective on life, community, and the artistic process. Co-Hosts: Richard Sleeper, Ember. Produced by: Jacob Boston

On Wednesday, January 21, hundreds of immigrant rights advocates rallied at the State Capitol to urge state lawmakers to include funding and policy protections for immigrant New Yorkers in the FY26 budget and legislative session. The New York Immigration Coalition and allies called on the legislature to pass the New York for All Act and the Access to Representation and BUILD Acts as part of the state budget. Advocates argued that with federal immigration enforcement intensifying, New York must provide concrete protections for immigrant communities. Prior to the rally, we have a quick interview with Murad Awawdeh, President of the New York Immigration Coalition. Murad also served as Emcee of the rally. We hear from Assemblymember Catalina Cruz, Yousaf Sherzad of the Afghan Community Center, Catherine Grainge of Jericho Road Community Health Center of Buffalo, Senator Andrew Gounardes, and Assemblymember Katrina Reyes. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine

Table of Contents: The New Normal: Ghazala Hashmi Takes Her Oath on a Demonic Islamic Quran While Being Sworn In as Virginia Lt. Governor!.  Muslims and Indians (From India) Taking Over Northern Texas Americans stop Mosque development In Oklahoma Who Is Helping Low IQ Muslim Demon Possessed Invaders Defraud American Taxpayers? THIS IS TREASON AND FULL SCALE PILLAGING GOING ON & NO EFFORT TO STOP THESE DEMONIC ENTITIES  After Massive Fraud Allegations, Washington State Senator Introduces Bill to CONCEAL Day Care Center Public Info Nick Shirley @nickshirleyy–Here is the full 42 minutes of my crew and I exposing Minnesota Somlian fraud, this might be my most important work yet–We uncovered over $110,000,000 in in fraud in ONE day! Humor Alert–Baby Trump Visits Minnesota & The Somalian Daycares! Ilhan Omar and Tim Walz Chime In National Guard Mobilizes in Minneapolis–Trump Warns of Using Insurrection Act DOJ Civil Rights Division Investigating Minneapolis Anti-ICE Rioters For Disrupting Christian Church Service—Radical Leftist Rioters Attack Anyone Appearing To Be Conservative, Interrupt & Harass Church Congregation, Rob Journalists In Minnesota Lead Report on Drudge for 1-18-26: Pentagon readies 1,500 soldiers to possibly deploy to Minnesota NYC Socialists Devils Prepare Mass Mobilization Of 4,000 Anti-ICE Army Right now there is Display in the Minnesota State Capital from “The Democratic Coalition of Satan Worshipers” Thanking Governor Tim Waltz For NOT standing in the way of Spreading Satanism in the State Capitol building!!! It Shows Baphomet (AKA The Goat of Mendez) on the plaque! #TamponTim began trending on the social media platform X after conservatives highlighted a 2023 Minnesota law Walz signed mandating free menstruation products in ALL (BOTH male and female) public school restrooms used by students in grades 4th to 12th! MN Governor Degenerate Devil Tim Walz Has Awakened The Sleeping Taxpayer Angry Americans Call for Tax Revolt in 2026! 2026 Tax Revolt: Millions Refusing to Pay Government Taxes Where Do Your Hard Earned Tax Dollars Really Go? If you think the I-R-S is lawful & that your Income Tax goes to running the United States watch: America: Freedom to Fascism Federal income tax exposed as theater: Why the government doesn’t really need your tax dollars S. “M2” Money Supply Increasing at ALARMING Rate; Resulting in Precious Metals Skyrocketing Bank of England must plan for a mega financial crisis sparked by aliens–A former analyst at the central bank has urged governor Andrew Bailey to put contingencies in place to prevent collapse if alien life is confirmed-SO BLAME THE ALIENS NOT THE PARASITE BANKERS  PDF: Emergency Freedom Alerts 1-19-26 Click Here To Play The Part 2 Audio Source

Today's edition is sponsored by the Ragged Mountain Running and Walking ShopThere are very few editions of Charlottesville Community Engagement that are sent out on a Saturday but there's enough new information to tell you so here we are. Today is the first day of the administration of Governor Abigail Spanberger and there have already been some big changes. I'm Sean Tubbs and it's January 17, 2026.In this edition:* Abigail Spanberger is now Virginia's 75th Governor* There are several media reports that at least three members of the University of Virginia's Board of Visitors has resigned at Spanberger's request* The Virginia General Assembly has set the stage for a Constitutional amendment this spring for a Congressional redistricting with debate in both the House of Delegates and the Virginia SenateCharlottesville Community Engagement is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Corrections to start:* In the January 16, 2026 edition, I misidentified Charlottesville's delegation to the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission. They are Jen Fleisher and Michael Payne.First-shout: Charlottesville Community Bikes seeing volunteers for the Charlottesville Ten MilerThe Charlottesville Ten Miler is fast-approaching so there's plenty of time to get training. Or so I keep telling myself. Or perhaps you'd like to help out on March 28 and witness thousands of people moving through the streets of our community as they raise money for local groups?Charlottesville Community Bikes is one of the beneficiaries of this year's Ten Miler and their level of support depends on how many people they can get to volunteer for any number of duties. If you'd like to learn more, visit the Ten Miler website and sign up if you'd like to get involved. Volunteers are encouraged to select “Anywhere You Need Me” for the greatest impact.Spanberger takes office as Virginia's 75th governorThe first woman to serve as the Governor of Virginia took the oath of office at the State Capitol this afternoon after winning the election last November.Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Earle-Sears with over 57 percent of the vote.“Neighbors, friends, and our fellow Virginians. It is my honor to be with all of you today,” said Governor Spanberger. “An inauguration ceremony like this one, with all its tradition and pageantry, represents something profound and in its origin, something uniquely American, the peaceful transfer of power.”Spanberger said the tradition began when George Washington, a Virginian, opted to step down after two terms as President. She thanked former Governor Glenn Youngkin for his service, as well as the time that former Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and former Attorney General Jason Miyares put in while in office.Spanberger also thanked generations that came before her that worked to ensure that women have the right not only to vote but also to hold office.“But who could only dream of a day like today?” Spanberger asked. “I stand before those who made it possible for a woman to also participate in that peaceful transfer of power and take that oath.”Spanberger noted that this is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, drawing attention to Thomas Jefferson's role as Virginia's second governor. The first was Patrick Henry, who was sworn in in 1776.“Governor Henry is best known for his call against tyranny at St. John's Church, just up the road, words that helped launch the American Revolution,” Spanberger said. “But in his final public speech delivered in Virginia Years later in 1799, he made an appeal to his fellow citizens, warning against the divisions that were threatening our young country. His appeal remains timeless. He said, united we stand, divided we fall, Let us not split into factions which must destroy that union upon which our existence hangs.”Spanberger noted that the steps of the Virginia capitol were used by suffragists to lobby for the right for women to vote, a request denied for many years until 1920 when the U.S. Constitution was amended. She also noted that Virginia did not ratify the 19th Amendment until 1952.The new governor also noted that Virginia decided to call itself a Commonwealth upon independence and not just a state.“What's the difference?,” Spanberger said. “We, kids, pay attention. Someone may ask you this eventually. There's no difference. There is no difference in how we operate or function as a state. The difference lies in the intentions of our forefathers and the choice to indicate that here our government should serve the common good. That the voices of everyday Virginians, not kings, not aristocrats, not oligarchs, should. That the voices of everyday Virginian should drive us forward and that our prosperity depends on that union.”Turning to policy and the future, Spanberger said she would help guide Virginia during a time when the federal government is seeking to end support for rural hospitals, support for health care, and other outcomes sought by the current administration.“I know that some who are here today or watching from home may disagree with the litany in of challenges and the hardships that I laid out,” Spanberger said. “Your perspective may differ from mine, but that does not preclude us from working together where we may find common cause.”Spanberger said she looks forward to working with the General Assembly over the next four years and thanked her Cabinet for being willing to serve.“As we mark 250 years since the dawn of American freedom, what will our children, our grandchildren and their descendants write about this time in our Commonwealth's history? This chapter, 50, 100, 250 years from now, will they say that we let divisions fester or challenges overwhelm us? Or will they say that we stood up for what is right, fixed what is broken, and served the common good?”You can watch the entire inauguration ceremony on VPM or read the remarks on the website of the 75th Governor.Thanks for reading Charlottesville Community Engagement ! This post is public so feel free to share it.Several members of the Board of Visitors have resigned at Spanberger's requestThe Cavalier Daily is reporting that four members of the University of Virginia's Board of Visitors have resigned following a request from Governor Abigail Spanberger before she was sworn in.Shortly after Spanberger was elected, she asked the Board of Visitors to suspend a search for a new president following the resignation of Jim Ryan in June 2025. Former Governor Glenn Youngkin told her to stop interfering and the Board hired Scott Beardsley on December 19. Beardsley resigned as Dean of the Darden School of Business to take the job.The Board was already down to 12 appointees, all named by Youngkin, following the failure of five new nominees to get confirmed by the General Assembly.Rector Rachel Sheridan, Vice Rector Porter Wilkinson, and member Paul Manning all resigned on Friday. The New York Times reports that Doug Wetmore resigned today and their earlier reporting Spanberger has also asked Stephen Long to resign.The Cavalier Daily obtained a copy of Sheridan's resignation letter to Youngkin that blamed “political warfare” for the Board's inability to stabilize a University community where several groups expressed concern that Beardsley was appointed without their input. On Thursday, the Faculty Senate adopted a resolution calling for Spanberger to act.“The Faculty Senate calls upon Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger to exercise her statutory authority, review the actions of current Board members,remove those whose conduct has fallen short of the responsibilities of Visitors, and appoint qualified individuals to fill all vacancies on the Board,” reads one part of the resolution.The resolution also asks the new Board of Visitors to review the search process to determine if there need to be changes.As of publication, the Board of Visitors website has not yet been updated to reflect any resignations. However, Deputy Spokeswoman Bethanie Glover confirmed the four resignations.“President Beardsley and University leaders thank them for their service to UVA,” reads a brief statement sent in response to a query.The University of Virginia's Board of Visitors is next scheduled to meet on March 5. This is a developing story.Soon after being sworn in, Spanberger signed ten executive orders. One of them seeks reform of the way that members of governing bodies of state institutions of higher learning are appointed. For more details, visit the Virginia Political Newsletter.Second shout-out: Alliance Française de CharlottesvilleThe Alliance Française de Charlottesville promotes the French language and francophone culture through educational and cultural programs. Visit the Alliance Française website to learn more about group classes, private lessons, cultural events, and social activities for both kids and adults.Special election on redistricting highly likely this spring on new Congressional maps in VirginiaThe Virginia General Assembly has set the stage for a special election this spring in which voters will be asked whether they would allow the state legislature to redraw the Commonwealth's Congressional districts in order to elect more Democrats.The move is a response to efforts by President Donald Trump to urge Republican-led legislatures across the nation to redraw boundaries for the House of Representatives to guarantee members of his party win.So far, both Texas and California have moved ahead with new maps.This week both the Virginia Senate and the House of Delegates kicked the 2026 legislative session off by passing a second reference of a Constitutional amendment to set up that ballot question. Under Virginia's Constitution, the legislature must agree to the amendment twice with a House of Delegates election in between before it goes to voters.Democrats took advantage of a special session from 2024 that had never ended to convene last October to hold the first reference in the House of Delegates and the Senate. Democrats then picked up an additional 13 seats in the House of Delegates.The House of Delegates passed the second reference on January 14 after about 20 minutes of debate. Delegate Rodney Willett (D-58) is the chief patron of House Joint Resolution 4 which will allow for a one-time redistricting outside of the decennial reapportionment process.“This keeps Virginia's options open,” Willett said. “This would enable us to preserve flexibility. If the people approve it and then we implement it, we could make redistricting decisions but there's no mandate here to do so.”Willett said the Virginia Redistricting Commission would do the work of redrawing Congressional lines in 2031 after the next Census.Delegate Terry Kilgore (R-45) said the General Assembly should not overturn the will of voters who approved a Constitutional amendment in 2020 to give the power to draw Congressional districts to the bipartisan Virginia Redistricting Committee.“We shouldn't care about what other states are doing,” Kilgore said. “We should care about what Virginia is doing, what message we're sending to our constituents.”Kilgore urged his colleagues to follow the lead of Indiana where a redistricting push failed in December. In both the Indiana House and the Senate, some Republicans joined with Democrats to vote against an effort to redraw lines. (learn more on Wikipedia)Delegate Wren Williams (R-47) rose to ask a question of Willett.“In 2020, nearly two-thirds of Virginia told us they wanted politics out of our map making,” Williams said. “Why would we reverse course now even under what is alleged to be a carve out for extraordinary emergencies?”Willett said this is a measure in response to a president who has demanded state institutions make changes for his benefit.“Our hand was forced here by the extraordinary actions coming from Washington by a president who contacted not one, not two, but multiple states and directed them to redistrict and change the election picture and essentially disenfranchise Virginia voters and other states that would vote Democratic,” Willett said. “We couldn't stand for that. When a bully punches you, sometimes you have to punch back.”Delegate Tom Garrett (R-56) argued that it would be Virginia Republicans who would be disenfranchised if lines are drawn to give Democrats an advantage. He ran through a list of states that are pursuing redistricting.“California, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Utah, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington, Florida, Maryland, Alabama, Louisiana, New York, North Dakota have all either done this or are looking at doing it,” Garrett said. “You know what makes Virginia different? We are the only state on the list that I named that had a constitutional amendment that passed in 99 out of 100 House of Delegates districts five short years ago.”Delegate Mark Sickles (D-17) reminded his colleagues that the Virginia Redistricting Commission failed to complete their job in October 2021.“That commission did not work like we hoped it would,” Sickles said. “And having a bipartisan thing, a group of Democrats and Republicans and citizens come up with these districts, it did not work. The court drew these seats. So I don't know how much reverence we have for that. But this is an emergency. If this is not an emergency for American democracy, I don't know what is.”Delegate Mark Simon (D-13) noted that if Virginia voters don't want to change the districts, they can vote accordingly.“You know what happens after this resolution passes?” Simon asked. “There's a referendum. We get to go back to the voters again and they're the ones who get to decide what we do going forward.”The vote was 62 in favor, 33 against, one abstention, and four not voting.A look at what other states are up to:Before we go over to the Senate, let's go through some of what can be known about other states listed by Delegate Garrett.* In November, voters in California approved Proposition 50 with 64.42 percent of the vote that redrew lines to target several Republican incumbents. (learn more on Wikipedia)* In Missouri, the legislature approved a new map for Congressional boundaries last September intended to reduce Democratic representation but a citizens group called People not Politicians are trying to force a referendum. Take a look at this January 9, 2026 story in the Missouri Independent for more information.* The North Carolina legislature approved a map in October 2025 designed to make it more difficult for one Democratic incumbent to get re-elected. Learn more in this Associated Press article from then. The situation in Utah is different as there were already legal clouds over redistricting related to an attempt to create an independent commission in 2018. According to an article by Katie McKeller in the Utah News Dispatch, a judge ordered a new map that would likely lead to one Democratic seat. Republicans are challenging.* The Texas legislature adopted a map last August intended to give Republicans five additional seats and this was briefly thrown out by a federal court. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled voted 6-3 to allow the new map to proceed. (learn more on Wikipedia)* The Ohio Redistricting Commission adopted a new map last October that gives Republicans an advantage. They did so before the legislature was set to do it themselves, reports Jeremy Pelzer for cleveland.com.* Some Democrats in Washington want to redraw the maps, but Scott Greenstone of KUOW reports there are obstacles to getting that done in 2026.* The situation in Louisiana is more complicated and I refer you to Ballotpedia.* New York Governor Kathy Hochul is exploring the idea of redistricting, reports Kate Lisa for Spectrum News.* North Dakota only has one Congressional District making redistricting irrelevant. Learn more on Ballotpedia.Senate DebateThe Virginia Senate took about 40 minutes on January 16 to go through the debate with Senator Christopher Head (R-3) introducing several amendments to House Joint Resolution 4. He made many of the same arguments as his colleagues in the House, arguing that voters had agreed to place the power of redistricting to a commission after the General Assembly gave them that choice in 2020.“Some of you weren't here then, but if you voted for it then and you thought that was a good idea because it was your ethics and your beliefs and they were foundational and fundamental,” Head said. “But now, because you hate the man that's in the White House, and that's really the only thing that's behind this, is that you hate the man that's in the White House and you want to blunt his power, then we're going to politically gerrymander and take away the rights of the people to have representation that represents them.”Senator Scott Surovell (D-34) said that Head's amendments should have been made on first reference. He said he did not support the creation of the Virginia Redistricting Commission but he could understand how those who did might change their mind now.“They didn't imagine that we're going to have a hyper-partisan fascist ideologue telling state legislatures around the country to basically redesign their districts to maximize his own personal political power,” Surovell said. “And to the extent anybody even thought about that, I think most people thought that there were people of principle in the Republican party that would stand up to it because they cared about the rule of law or system of government preserving democracy.”Head did not receive enough votes for his amendments.Surovell said he wished he did not have to support this move but felt there was no other choice.“When other states manipulate their maps to gain unfair advantage, we don't just harm,” Surovell said. “They don't just harm their own voters. They also harm Virginia's ability to have its fair representation in Congress. We're simply seeking to level the playing field in Congress which has already been. Which is being tilted against us and our state.Senator Mark Peake (R-22) wanted to know what would happen if voters approve the redistricting.“Do we come back into special session after the citizens have voted to draw the new congressional districts?” Peake asked.Surovell said there are still remaining questions to be answered but the maps would be available for the public to review before the referendum.Peake said if this passes, Democrats will do what they can to hold on to power.“You're going to do away with bipartisan redistricting,” Peake said. “You're going to try and put us in a 10 to 1 Democrat to Republican congressional districts, and then you're going to again resume gerrymandering the entire Commonwealth.”Senator Ryan McDougle (R-26) urged Democrats in Virginia to follow what some of the Republicans did in the Indiana legislature when they stopped a gerrymander.“Republicans in Indiana stood up to political pressure and said we're not going to play these political games,” McDougle said.In the Indiana House, 57 Republicans voted for the redistricting and 12 voted against, joining 29 Democrats. In the Senate, 21 Republicans joined 10 Democrats against the redistricting, and 19 Republicans voted for it.Senator Bill Stanley (R-7) pointed out that President Trump is unpopular, citing Democrats picking up 13 seats in the Virginia House of Delegates this past November.“It seems to me what this kerfuffle is all about is because the current president has encouraged some states to change their congressional makeups and the lines,” Stanley said. “The last time I checked, when he was elected in 2016. In 2018, Madam President, the Democrats picked up, I think 41 seats in Congress.”That appears to be accurate per Wikipedia.Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16) agreed that Trump is unpopular and said that is why is is seeking to redraw lines across the country.“As is so often true over the last 10 years of politics, every accusation is a confession,” VanValkenburg said. “The other side mistakes their inability to. To push back against the craziness of our current president for how we will act or are acting.”The vote in the senate was 21 to 18 with one abstention.What questions do you have?(image) The current Congressional lines in Virginia. Image by Wikipedia user Twotwofourtsix.Let's say a few things about #986I had not intended to do a second podcast today but I feel it is important for Virginians to hear the voices of people in our government. I also got caught up in the moment. I remember attending the inauguration of Governor Mark Warner as a reporter back when that happened.At the time I really thought I would have a career in public radio, but my desire for longer and longer stories met up against their need for shorter and shorter ones. When it was clear I was not going to get a job in the field, I tried to create my own. After fits and starts, here we are.I'm not going to any gala or celebration today. I'm going to keep working as that's what I want to do more. I've got to get the Week Ahead out tomorrow, write two stories for C-Ville Weekly and finish up a cover story article that I am procrastinating on. Never underestimate the power of procrastination, dear reader!But I need some music to get me through and the DJs from Buenos Aires strike again! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

It's a time of transition at the State Capitol. Politics analyst Jeff Schapiro and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.

Send us a text"Things aren't going to change until you do something to make them change." ~ Mike Lindell, Founder & CEO, MyPillowKey Takeaways: Leadership, Not Politics2026 Gubernatorial Run: Mike Lindell officially announced his run for Governor of Minnesota on December 11th, positioning himself as a leader rather than a career politician.Fiscal Accountability: Mike aims to tackle widespread welfare fraud in Minnesota, which he estimates ranges from $9 billion to $18 billion.Economic Reform: By eliminating systemic fraud and implementing vetted programs, Mike believes the state could potentially eliminate state income tax.Private-Sector Solutions: He plans to implement a welfare platform tested in Detroit that utilizes private-sector funding, which previously reduced program costs by 40%.Day-One Priorities: Mike's immediate goals include banning Sharia Law in Minnesota and restoring traditional values to the State Capitol.Election Integrity: Despite his campaign, Mike remains committed to his efforts for paper ballots and hand-counted elections through his established teams.Exclusive “Remarkable” Offers: Listeners receive “better than ever” rates on MyPillow products and free shipping on their entire order by using promo code Remarkable at MyPillow.com.In this episode of the Remarkable People Podcast, host David Pasqualone sits down with Mike Lindell for a deep dive into his official run for Governor of Minnesota. Mike explains why he is choosing to step into the political arena now, focusing on a "leadership first" approach to solve the systemic issues facing the state. From his plans to eliminate state income tax by cutting welfare fraud to his commitment to election integrity, Mike shares the vision he believes will restore Minnesota.Key Points (Timestamps & Titles):00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:59 Mike Lindell's Campaign for Governor02:38 Addressing Welfare Fraud06:28 Campaign Strategies and Public Support12:30 Protests and Public Safety21:05 Corruption and Political Landscape24:32 Media Accountability and Election Integrity26:24 The Importance of Donations and Campaign Funding27:40 Mike Lindell's Commitment to Minnesota28:57 Addressing Healthcare and Multitasking Leadership31:10 Trump's Endorsement and Campaign Strategy34:31 MyPillow Product Highlights and Offers37:44 Rev7 Anti-Tire Drink Introduction44:44 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionSupport the showTHE NOT-SO-FINE-PRINT DISCLAIMER: While we are very thankful for all of our guests, please understand that we do not necessarily share or endorse the same beliefs, worldviews, or positions that they may hold. We respectfully agree to disagree in some areas, and thank God for the blessing and privilege of free will. For more Remarkable Episodes, Inspiration, and Motivation, please visit https://davidpasqualone.com/remarkable-people-podcast/ now!

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Jan. 15, include: Gov. Jim Pillen says senator's removal of images from PragerU historical display at State Capitol warrants criminal investigation, Pillen appoints familiar face to fill the Legislative District 41 vacancy after Sen. Dan McKeon's resignation, parents and advocates urge DHHS to drop proposed caps on family caregiver pay under Aged and Disabled Waiver, Hastings moves forward with long-planned east entrance project, medical device maker BD announces $110 million expansion in Columbus adding about 120 jobs.

With the State Legislature back in Albany, rallies are beginning again. The recent murder by ICE of Renee Good in Minneapolis is increasing pressure of the state legislature and the Governor to finally pass the New York for All Act which would provide prohibit local governments from cooperating with ICE. Here is audio from the January 12 2026 rally on the Million Dollar Staircase in the Capitol

From another big budget shortfall to unsettled business over artificial intelligence to other pressing policy issues, like housing, the environment and surveillance, the 2026 legislative session kicks off in less than a week and Colorado lawmakers already have a lot on their to-do lists. Plus, while Democrats continue to hold a wide majority in both legislative chambers, tensions between the more progressive and more moderate factions of the party threaten to bubble over. On top of all of that, a big election year that will deliver new leaders for the state. CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul dig into the politics, the policy and the pressures expected to shape a new session. Catch up on our latest coverage: Purplish: Budget balanced (for now), AI decisions punted, relationships ruptured: What went down during special session Purplish: Crude Signal chats, social media attacks, mistreated aides: lawmaker conduct is back in the headlines CPR: Trump cites Colorado in new executive order banning states from creating ‘cumbersome' AI laws The Colorado Sun: How Medicaid became such a drag on Colorado's state budget KUNC: Democrats, local governments are gearing up for another round of battles over housing in Colorado The Colorado Sun: Colorado Ethics Commission advances complaints against Democrats who attended dark money-funded retreat The Colorado Sun: Colorado state Sen. Faith Winter was legally drunk when she caused car crash that killed her, authorities say Purplish: Drinking at the Colorado Capitol  CPR: Democratic Sen. Faith Winter changed State Capitol culture in the #MeToo era Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Megan Verlee is CPR News' executive producer of podcasting. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. Purplish's theme music is by Brad Turner. Additional reporting for this episode from Taylor Dolven of The Colorado Sun and CPR's John Daley.

Send us a textWelcome to the first Purple Zone episode of 2026.As the new year begins and the legislative session ramps up (start date is January 12) ... I'm sharing three important opportunities and announcements for Idahoans who care about kids, families, schools, and the policies that shape our communities.First, we're talking about Idaho PTA Day on the Hill, happening Tuesday, January 20, at the State Capitol. This year's event includes a lunch with lawmakers and offers a meaningful chance to connect directly with the decision-makers shaping policies that impact our children...and all of us.

More movement on the political front for the 2026 elections. We'll go over who's in an who's out this week in the races for governor and lt. governor. There's progress on implementing the state's medical cannabis law. Randy Scott has those details. On Capitol Hill, Alex Angle reports on this week's action from Alabama's delegation in Washington on the issue of health care. Joining us in studio this week. Senate General Fund Budget Chairman Greg Albritton talks about the online sales tax issue and what budgets are looking like with the session approaching. And State Representative Susan Dubose joins us alongside Miss Alabama's Teen Addison Shoemaker to highlight Girls Day at the State Capitol. 

More than 100 climate activists came to the State Capitol on Thursday December 11 to urge Governor Hochul to sign legislation that would end the estimated six hundred million of dollars that has been added to utility bills by requiring free gas hookups if the new the customer is within 100 feet of an existing gas pipeline. The cost of such hookups, from $2500 to $10000 per building, is presently added to the utilities' rate base, which means all customers pay for it for decades. The bill is presently on Governor Hochul's desk and she has a week to decide whether or not to sign it. The media reports that she is pushing for some amendments, such as pushing back the implementation date. At the rally in the War Room, we hear from Betta Broad of New Yorkers for Clean Power, Doctor Sandra Steingraber, and from customers of the various utilities in the state. By Mark Dunlea for the Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, the State of Colorado lost a giant after State Senator Faith Winter tragically passed in a car accident, leaving a huge orange and blue void in the State Capitol and in so many of our hearts. We remember a state lawmaker who wasn't one of 100 lawmakers, she was one of one. Then, the Secretary of War Crimes is earning his new title by defending the wanton murder of random boaters in the Caribbean Sea...until people point out that that's actually a war crime. Then, Lock Her Up or FREE TINA? The President of the United States, who clearly doesn't understand or care how laws, the constitution, or our Republican form of Government works STILL has thoughts about one of his election conspiracy lackeys who was found guilty by a jury of her peers in one of the reddest counties in Colorado for hacking her own election equipment trying to prove the big lie was the truth. Then, is affordability a hoax? This $700 receipt from Costco has thoughts. Later, a Republican State Representative says the quiet part out loud, in case you were still somehow under the impression that those folks were there to try and make any laws. And finally, we check in with our 8th favorite member of Congress from Colorado to see how the various obvious and falsifiable lies he's been telling all year are working out for him. That's it for this episode! If you loved watching and/or listening to it as much as we loved recording it, you can thank us by subscribing to the pod wherever you listen, following us over on New Old Twitter AKA Bluesky, subscribing to our shiny new channel on YouTube, smashing that subscribe button on our Substack, and sharing this episode with your friends, your enemies, and your 8th favorite Member of Congress from Colorado! THANK YOU so much for listening, and we'll see you next time!

“Plastic is everywhere — wrapped around our food, stitched into our clothes, even coursing through our veins.”That's how Judith Enck begins her new book, "The Problem with Plastic: How We Can Save Ourselves and our Planet Before It's Too Late," co-authored with Adam Mohoney. A former regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency, Enck warns that plastics are a toxic industry that are poisoning people and the environment. Plastic production has gone from two million tons per year in 1950, to 450 million tons per year today. The plastics industry has spent millions selling the material as safe and sustainable, but only 6% of plastic is recycled. Plastic recycling is a “false solution,” Enck said. “Plastic recycling has never worked. Never will work.” The plastics industry has “spent millions of dollars advertising, telling us, 'don't worry about all the plastic you're generating,' just toss it in your recycling bin. That is deceptive, and it is so deceptive that the Attorney General of California Rob Bonta sued the nation's largest maker of plastic, the little mom and pop company known as Exxon Mobil, for deceptive claims around plastics recycling and chemical recycling.”Plastic never breaks down. It breaks up into smaller microplastics, circulating in the environment for centuries, said Enck. “16,000 different chemicals are used to make plastic, and the chemicals will sometimes hitchhike on the microplastics. So we're having the physical presence of microplastics in our bodies, but also the presence of chemicals that are used to make plastic, including PFAS chemicals, lead, mercury, formaldehyde.” Microplastics have been found in lungs, testicles, blood, breast milk and semen. They are associated with a rise in reproductive cancers, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, among other ailments.The plastics industry has deployed an army of lobbyists to beat back attempts to limit the use of plastics. As an example, Enck cites New York's effort this year to consider “a comprehensive packaging reduction bill that will reduce all single use packaging by 30% over 12 years.”“This was the most lobbied bill in the 2026 legislative session in nearby Albany,” said Enck, noting that “there were 106 registered lobbyists against this bill, and 24 in support. I have never seen so many special interest lobbyists wandering the halls of the State Capitol in Albany, including the final night of the legislative session, where they killed the bill on the assembly floor after it passed in the State Senate.”That experience has led Enck to conclude that "reducing plastic in our bodies, in our environment, in Lake Champlain, in the ocean, is more of a political science issue than a science issue. We have enough science to act.”Judith Enck was appointed EPA regional administrator by President Obama and she has served as deputy secretary for the environment in New York. She is now a professor at Bennington College and the founder and president of Beyond Plastics, a group that works to eliminate plastic pollution.Enck insisted that in addition to political action, individuals can take steps to minimize their exposure to plastic. “I suggest that people start with their kitchen, because that's where most of the plastic is, and that's where the greatest risk is in terms of exposure in your food. Do not put plastic in your microwave. Get rid of black plastic utensils in your kitchen drawers, because black plastic is made from recycled electronic waste. Get rid of your plastic cutting board. Replace it with either wood or steel. Do a little audit of what's your heaviest use of plastic. For instance, if you drink a lot of juice, instead of buying it in plastic jugs, buy frozen concentrate and make it in a glass pitcher. There are steps like that we can take.”

President Donald Trump's privately funded plan to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom has Democrats like Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren fuming about “luxury” while they've shut down the government. Presidents have remodeled the White House for over a century—from Harry Truman's gut renovation to Barack Obama's basketball court—yet only Trump gets scorn. Victor Davis Hanson breaks down the hypocrisy on today's episode of “Victor Davis Hanson: In a Few Words.” “Do we really want to know what belittles the White House? I mean, we're just coming off the Biden administration, where cocaine was found in a carrel in the West Wing. … Do you remember when Barack Obama was president? He brought in a whole cadre of Muslim Brotherhood people that were tied to Hamas Islamic terrorism. He brought an entourage, in 2012, into the White House. I remember, 2016, he thought it would be neat to have his favorite rappers in the White House. Kendrick Lamar—“Pimp a Butterfly.” Remember those lyrics about killing the police in the White House? That rapper—‘kill po-po,' as he said.  “We could go on with the embarrassing incidents. I won't mention what transpired between Monica Lewinsky and Bill Clinton right off the Oval Office in the presidential laboratory. But nonetheless, the ballroom was needed. 

The conspiracy theories about everything are no more including those of us who had doubts about the election process.Just three weeks to Election Day, and voter fraud and efforts to stop it were a big topic of discussion at the State Capitol.The House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee, asking some pointed questions about the criminal case involving Ronnie Williams and Lorraine Lee Combs.Federal prosecutors say during the 2021-22 election cycle, the Nevada couple filled out hundreds of fraudulent voter registration applications in 13 Minnesota counties.“There doesn't seem to be a check when this group submitted the fraudulent applications,” noted Rep. Kristin Robbins, R-Maple Grove, the committee chair. “So, I don't know where that breakdown comes in.”Court documents filed in June say Williams and Combs filled out the forms with fake names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers, and that an unnamed foundation paid for them.Prosecutors say the foundation paid Williams for each completed application.State lawmakers passed a law in 2023 banning that kind of pay-for-play operation, where the couple was paid based on how many applications they finished. The motive, authorities say, was money. “This is not a case about fraudulent votes,” Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon told the panel. “This is also a case of the system working to detect those applications so they could be appropriately challenged and referred to law enforcement for prosecution and conviction.”He notes local elections officials noticed irregularities in the paperwork and notified authorities.Simon says his office, the elections personnel and the FBI tracked down the bad actors.We asked Robbins if the committee had found any new evidence of fraud at this point.“You know, we have not seen it,” she says. “But we are very concerned that the foundation in question gets their entire budget from federal and state grants. I want to talk to the health department and other departments that are their grantees.”Robbins says she'd like to see a process where the Secretary of State's Office would vet registration applications before they are sent out to county elections officials. But after the meeting, DFL members say they're not sure committee hearings are the best way to investigate these kinds of irregularities. “I mean, in this committee, we've had some people the press has identified. Nothing through this committee process at all,” says Rep. Dave Pinto, DFL-St. Paul. “Of course, we want to make sure our elections are secure as possible and there is access to the ballot as well. That's the belief that got discussed quite a bit.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.