Podcast appearances and mentions of Virginia House

The Virginia House and State Senate meet today to vote on Virginia's next two-year budget… Virginia remains in a near-statewide drought warning… Residents in Chesterfield county push back on plans for three new data centers.

More from VPM News:  Virginia House drops $74B budget draft ahead of June 30 deadline  Virginia has the blue catfish blues  ICYMI: Sailing vessels travel upriver to Richmond as part of 250th anniversary  On the agenda: Richmond zoning refresh, Petersburg casino revenue    Other links:  Virginia law does not make it easy for a renter to force a landlord to improve conditions — even hazardous ones (Charlottesville Tomorrow)  Goochland to weigh 900-megawatt data center campus under new tech zone (Richmond Times-Dispatch)*  Justice Department sues Virginia over mask ban, limits to federal agents (The Washington Post)*  *This outlet uses a paywall.  Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism. 

D.C. voters are preparing to head to the polls to make their picks in the primary elections for mayor, D.C. delegate to Congress, and a handful of seats on the D.C. Council.A recent poll shows Ward 4 D.C. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George leading her former Council colleague Kenyan McDuffie by double digits, but many voters remain undecided heading into the final stretch. WAMU's Senior D.C. Politics Reporter Alex Koma and the Washington Informer's Sam P.K. Collins stop by The Politics Hour to break down exactly what's happening in each race. They'll also talk about how ranked-choice voting might affect the results of the election (and when we might see the results).Virginia lawmakers are still struggling to negotiate a budget. Leaders in the Virginia House, Senate, and Executive Mansion can't come to an agreement on tax breaks for data centers in the commonwealth. House delegates will return to Richmond for a special session on the budget on June 18th in an effort to hammer out a deal before the June 30th deadline. If lawmakers fail to agree by then, the state government will shut down. Virginia delegate Vivian Watts comes by The Politics Hour to share where things stand at this point.Sorting political fact from fiction, and having fun while we're at it. Join us for our weekly review of the politics, policies, and personalities of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Produced by Kayla HewittSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Bluesky: bsky.app/wamu.org

This Day in Legal History: The Burning of the GaspeeOn this day in 1772, a Royal Navy revenue schooner called HMS Gaspee, captained by a notably overzealous Lieutenant William Duddington, ran aground in shallow water in Narragansett Bay while chasing a Rhode Island packet boat called the Hannah. Within hours of the grounding, roughly sixty Providence merchants, sailors, and “Sons of Liberty” — led by John Brown, one of the wealthiest men in the colony — rowed out under cover of darkness in eight longboats, boarded the Gaspee, shot Duddington, and burned the ship to the waterline. The legal significance lies in what came next. The Crown convened a Royal Commission of Inquiry with authority to ship the perpetrators across the Atlantic for trial in England, bypassing colonial juries entirely, a procedural maneuver that the colonies read as a direct attack on the right to jury trial in the vicinage.The Virginia House of Burgesses responded in March 1773 by forming the first Committee of Correspondence, a sustained intercolonial communication network that became, two years later, the institutional skeleton of the Continental Congress. The Gaspee Affair never produced a single prosecution — the commission could not get the colonial governor or the Rhode Island courts to cooperate, and witness testimony evaporated — but it produced something more durable: the colonial conviction that the Crown's willingness to detour around local juries was itself a constitutional grievance worth organizing against. The right-to-jury-in-the-vicinage point that Madison wrote into the Sixth Amendment seventeen years later is, in a real sense, the Gaspee Affair's longest-lived legacy.The Supreme Court on Monday granted, vacated, and remanded the D.C. Circuit's decision in American Gas Association v. Department of Energy, sending the long-disputed Biden-era Department of Energy efficiency rule on non-condensing residential gas furnaces and commercial water heaters back to the D.C. Circuit “for further consideration in light of the position asserted by the Solicitor General.” That last phrase is the operative one. The new Solicitor General, on behalf of the second Trump administration's DOE, told the Court in late April that the prior administration's reading of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act was, in DOE's current view, wrong, and that the rule effectively bans non-condensing units that millions of homes and small commercial properties were built around. A confessed-error from a new administration doesn't automatically win a case, but the procedural vehicle — a grant-vacate-remand, or “GVR” — is the Court's standard way of saying “go look at this again with the new posture in mind” without resolving the merits itself.The trade-group plaintiffs, led by the American Gas Association and the American Public Gas Association, framed the rule from the start as a de facto product ban dressed up as efficiency standards. The environmental and consumer groups that intervened to defend the rule will get another bite at the apple on remand, but their position is harder when their own client agency has switched sides. Watch the D.C. Circuit's case calendar over the next few weeks for an expedited briefing schedule.Supreme Court Vacates Decision Outlawing Gas Stoves, Water Heaters | NewsBustersSCOTUSblog on Monday published a careful overview of an increasingly organized litigation campaign to ask the Supreme Court to overrule Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 decision recognizing a constitutional right to same-sex marriage. The campaign now includes Liberty Counsel, MassResistance, and the Southern Baptist Convention, which last year voted overwhelmingly to urge the Court to reverse the decision. The underlying ground for the push is partly the Court's reasoning in Dobbs four years ago, which gave conservative litigants a road map for unwinding substantive due process precedents, and partly the gradual erosion of public-opinion support for same-sex marriage in one slice of the polling, with Republican support falling from 55 percent in 2022 to 37 percent now. The legal headcount at the Court is, however, the part of the story that is not yet there.Only Justice Thomas has been a consistent vote to revisit Obergefell, having said so in his Dobbs concurrence. Justice Alito, despite being one of Obergefell's original dissenters, recently emphasized in a public speech that he is not suggesting the case should be overruled, citing stare decisis. Justice Gorsuch's dissent in 303 Creative seems to concede that Obergefell is good law and tries instead to carve out specific exceptions to it. None of which is a reason for litigants on the marriage-equality side to relax. The path Dobbs opened up is wider than any single justice's current voting pattern, and the campaign is plainly playing a long game.The next round of test cases on standing and ripeness will start to surface in the lower courts in the next term or two — that is when the campaign's seriousness becomes measurable.The campaign to overrule Obergefell | SCOTUSblogThe third and most constitutionally significant story of the day is one we've been watching: the litigation over President Trump's $400 million ballroom — built on the site of the demolished East Wing — is on track to land in front of the Supreme Court, SCOTUSblog reported Monday. The D.C. Circuit panel that heard the case for more than two hours in late April has not yet ruled, but the questioning made clear that a more substantial opinion is coming and that an appeal to the Court is the likely next stop regardless of which side wins. The legal question is unusually fundamental. The plaintiff, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, argues that the President has no “free-floating” power to construct major federal buildings without an appropriation from Congress, and that the Antideficiency Act and the Public Buildings Act both require the kind of statutory authorization the East Wing ballroom never received.The administration's response, delivered in a tone that several court-watchers described as unusually defiant, has essentially been that construction has “gone too far to be stopped” and that the courts have no role in second-guessing a presidential building decision once the steel is up. The structural separation-of-powers questions here — what does the Appropriations Clause actually constrain, and can a federal court enjoin a President from continuing to build something that is partially constructed — are large enough that the Supreme Court will almost certainly want to take the case if it reaches the high court. Construction, meanwhile, continues. The most likely Supreme Court resolution is a narrow opinion on standing or remedies, with the broader Appropriations Clause questions deferred for another day. We will see.White House ballroom battle may soon arrive at the Supreme Court | SCOTUSblogIn my Bloomberg Tax column this week, I argue that the SALT deduction cap's biggest problem is not that it is unconstitutional, but that it is badly designed. The latest failed challenge, Sims v. United States, involved two New Jersey taxpayers who claimed the cap violated the 10th Amendment, the 16th Amendment, and broader federalism principles. The federal district court rejected those arguments, finding that Congress has broad authority to tax income and decide which deductions are allowed, limited, or denied. My point is that opponents of the SALT cap should stop looking for constitutional defects that courts are unlikely to find and instead focus on forcing Congress to fix the policy it created.I explain that the cap has always been politically loaded: supporters see it as a needed limit on a deduction that benefits many high-income taxpayers in high-tax states, while critics see it as a targeted attack on those states. But unfair or politically motivated tax policy is not automatically unconstitutional. The real weakness, I argue, is the cap's uneven design, especially the pass-through entity tax workaround. Many business owners can effectively get around the cap when state taxes are paid at the entity level, while wage earners, sole proprietors, and many individual taxpayers remain stuck behind it.That creates a serious mismatch: two taxpayers can live in the same state, earn similar income, and face similar state tax burdens, but receive different federal treatment depending on whether one has the right business structure. I argue that this kind of selective relief may be a more promising target for a narrower administrative or legal challenge than another broad constitutional attack on Congress's taxing power. Congress partly recognized the problem when it raised the cap from $10,000 to $40,000, but I note that the fix is temporary, only lightly indexed, and still leaves major structural problems in place. The marriage penalty remains especially glaring because married couples filing jointly do not receive double the cap available to similarly situated unmarried taxpayers.I also criticize the phaseout design because it can create cliffs or marginal-rate spikes that reward tax gamesmanship rather than sound policy. A better fix, in my view, would make the higher cap permanent, index it meaningfully, eliminate the marriage penalty, smooth out the phaseout, and require Treasury to rationalize the treatment of pass-through entity taxes. The lesson from Sims is that courts may uphold the SALT cap, but that does not make it good tax policy. If the cap is unfair, incoherent, or selectively porous, Congress owns that problem.SALT Deduction Cap Falls Short in Design, Not Constitutionality This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Nick Freitas is a former U.S. Army Green Beret who served combat tours in Iraq before entering politics in Virginia. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2016 to 2026 as a Republican and became nationally known for his libertarian-leaning conservative speeches on issues such as gun rights, limited government, and individual liberty. He also ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2018 and for Congress in 2020, while building a large online audience through his podcast and political commentary.IN THE NEWS: "You're f*cking crazy": Trump fumes at Netanyahu in call on Lebanon, Bombshell lawsuit exposes 873,000 ‘gho st' voters in California, Grammy winner Lauren Daigle says a label exec asked why she had 'to be Christian' despite 'superstar' status, Two Years Into Trump 2.0, Corporate America's Pride Month Looks DifferentGET IT ON!FOR MORE WITH NICK FREITAS:INSTAGRAM/YOUTUBE: @nickjfreitasFACEBOOK: @NickFreitasVAPODCAST: Making The Argument PodcastFOR MORE WITH ADAM YENSER:YOUTUBE SHOW: The Cancelled NewsINSTAGRAM: @adamyenser TWITTER: @cleancomedian69LIVE SHOWS: June 5 - Portland, ORJune 6 - Portland, OR (2 shows)June 12 - Oklahoma City, OK (2 Shows)June 13 - Tulsa, OK (2 Shows)June 20 - Santa Ana, CA (KROQ Doc Screening)Thank you for supporting our sponsors:BetOnlineStay ready for anything with the American Giant Classic Full Zip. Go to https://www.american-giant.com and get 20% off your first order with promo code ADAM. Thanks to American Giant for sponsoring the show!Cardiff.co/ADAMoreillyauto.com/ADAMPluto.tvSimpliSafe.com/ADAMSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Member of the Virginia House of Delegates Tom Garrett stops by the show to talk about not having approved a state budget.

fWotD Episode 3311: Patrick Henry Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Friday, 29 May 2026, is Patrick Henry.Patrick Henry (May 29, 1736 [O. S. May 18, 1736] – June 6, 1799) was an American politician, planter and orator who declared to the Second Virginia Convention (1775): "Give me liberty or give me death!" A Founding Father, he served as the first and sixth post-colonial governor of Virginia, from 1776 to 1779 and from 1784 to 1786.A native of Hanover County, Virginia, Henry was primarily educated at home. After an unsuccessful venture running a store, as well as assisting his father-in-law at Hanover Tavern, he became a lawyer through self-study. Beginning his practice in 1760, Henry soon became prominent through his victory in the Parson's Cause against the Anglican clergy. He was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses, where he quickly became notable for his inflammatory rhetoric against the Stamp Act 1765.In 1774, Henry served as a delegate to the First Continental Congress where he signed the Petition to the King, which he helped to draft, and the Continental Association. He gained further popularity among the people of Virginia, both through his oratory at the convention and by marching troops towards the colonial capital of Williamsburg after the Gunpowder Incident until the munitions seized by the royal government were paid for. Henry urged independence, and when the Fifth Virginia Convention endorsed this in 1776, he served on the committee charged with drafting the Virginia Declaration of Rights and the original Virginia Constitution. Henry was promptly elected governor under the new charter and served a total of five one-year terms.After leaving the governorship in 1779, Henry served in the Virginia House of Delegates until he began his last two terms as governor in 1784. The actions of the national government under the Articles of Confederation made Henry fear a strong federal government, and he declined appointment as a delegate to the 1787 Constitutional Convention. He actively opposed the ratification of the United States Constitution, both fearing a powerful central government and because there was as yet no Bill of Rights. He returned to the practice of law in his final years, declining several offices under the federal government. A slaveholder throughout his adult life, he hoped to see the institution end but had no plan beyond ending the importation of slaves. Henry is remembered for his oratory and as an enthusiastic promoter of the fight for independence.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:13 UTC on Friday, 29 May 2026.For the full current version of the article, see Patrick Henry on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Bluesky at @wikioftheday.com.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Aria.

As a teenager, he dropped out of college and served in the in the 3rd Virginia Regiment in the Continental Army.  After studying law under Thomas Jefferson, he later served in the Virginia House of Delegates, as the US Ambassador to France and England, as governor of Virginia, as the Secretary of War and then Secretary of State. Finally, in March 1817, James Monroe became our country's 5th President and in 1823 he famously introduced the Monroe Doctrine.  Quite a legacy for a teenager wounded in the Battle of Trenton at just 18 years old.  To help us better grasp James Monroe's incredible service to our country, we are delighted to welcome Scott Harris as our special guest this week.  Scott is Executive Director of the University of Mary Washington Museums and previously served as Director of the James Monroe Museum, which is administered by the university.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Impact Without Limits, Dale and Brian continue their America 250 series by exploring the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the Battle of Bunker Hill—moments that turned growing tension into open conflict. From Paul Revere's midnight ride to the “shot heard around the world,” they unpack how ordinary citizens stood against the most powerful army in the world and helped ignite the fight for independence.They also highlight Patrick Henry's powerful “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech and the role words played alongside warfare in shaping the Revolutionary movement. This episode is a reminder that freedom was not won in a single moment, but through courage, conviction, and the willingness to stand firm when it mattered most.Episode Highlights: Patrick Henry's speech and the call for liberty.Paul Revere's midnight ride and the warning spreads.The Battles of Lexington and Concord begin.The “shot heard around the world” changes everything.Bunker Hill proves the colonies are ready to fight.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on ForeverLawn:www.foreverlawn.comImpact Without Limits Instagram: @impact_withoutlimitsForeverLawn's Instagram: @foreverlawnincGet Grass Without Limits HereVisit our show notes page HERESubscribe to Our Newsletter HEREDale's Instagram: @dalekarmieBrian's Instagram: @bkarmieFind Our Shorts on the ForeverLawn YouTube ChannelPatrick Henry's moving speech to the Virginia House of BurgessesThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Retired Green Beret and Virginia legislator Nick Freitas (author of The Manbook) discusses the crisis of modern masculinity, how to push back against “black-pilled” doomers on the political right, and the fundamental standards every man needs to meet. And in explosive testimony in Germany, Dr. Helmut Sterz (former Pfizer executive & head of their EU toxicology centers) estimated up to 60,000 COVID vaccine-related deaths in Germany alone. Elon Musk responded by posting “The vaccine dosage was obviously too high and done too many times…my second vaccine shot almost sent me to the hospital. Felt like I was dying. Investigative journalist Sonia Elijah exposes the institutional cover-up, and how HHS Secretary Alex Azar invoked the PREP Act to grant blanket liability to vaccine manufacturers a full 35 days before the WHO even declared a pandemic. Sonia Elijah also discusses “miracle” updates from Edogawa Hospital in Japan, the only facility known to have successfully cleared spike proteins and amyloid blood clots using dual filter plasmapheresis and stem cells. Sonia Elijah is an independent investigative journalist and former BBC researcher. She is author of 3/11 Viral Takeover: On March 11, 2020, a Pandemic was Declared and Our World Changed Forever. She has conducted in-depth investigations into the COVID-19 response, including Pfizer-BioNTech trial documents, vaccine safety issues, excess deaths, regulatory failures, and institutional conflicts of interest. Follow at https://x.com/sonia_elijah Nick Freitas is author of The Manbook: A Point-by-Point Guide to Sucking It Up and Getting the Job Done. He is a retired US Army Special Forces (Green Beret) who served two tours in Iraq as a Special Forces Weapons SGT and Special Forces Intelligence SGT, after initially serving with the 82nd Airborne Division and 25th Light Infantry Division. In 2015, he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. He and his wife Tina have three children and live in Virginia. Follow at https://x.com/NickJFreitas 「 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 」 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• FATTY15 – The future of essential fatty acids is here! Strengthen your cells against age-related breakdown with Fatty15. Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit Subscription at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/fatty15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • PALEOVALLEY - "Paleovalley has a wide variety of extraordinary products that are both healthful and delicious,” says Dr. Drew. "I am a huge fan of this brand and know you'll love it too!” Get 15% off your first order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/paleovalley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • THE WELLNESS COMPANY - Counteract harmful spike proteins with TWC's Signature Series Spike Support Formula containing nattokinase and selenium. Learn more about TWC's supplements at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twc.health/drew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 「 ABOUT THE SHOW 」 This show is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Executive Producers • Kaleb Nation - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kalebnation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Susan Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/firstladyoflove⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Content Producer • Emily Barsh - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/emilytvproducer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted By • Dr. Drew Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/drdrew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

X: @GarrettInExile @ileaderssummit @americasrt1776 @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk @JTitMVirginia Join America's Roundtable radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with the Honorable Thomas Garrett, Jr., member of the Commonwealth of Virginia's House of Delegates and former US Congressman. Topics Highlighted: The impact of Virginia's gerrymandering on midterm elections. Currently, Virginia's Congressional balance includes 6 Democrats and 5 Republicans. If Democrats prevail on April 21's special election, the slim House Republican majority may very well collapse in November 2026. In fact, The Washington Post's Editorial Board (February 6, 2026) expressed serious concerns: "The self-styled democracy party isn't behaving democratically. Democrats in Richmond are trying to effectively disenfranchise millions of Virginians by redrawing congressional maps to give themselves 10 of the commonwealth's 11 House seats — giving Democrats control of 91 percent of House seats in a state where Republicans lost the last presidential election by just six points." How America's sanctuary cities and states place Americans in danger with soaring crime rates fueled by illegal immigrants. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that illegal immigrants were responsible for 75% of murders in Fairfax County so far in 2026. US - Israel strikes in Iran and the future of the Middle East and beyond. Red states versus blue states: Jobs, education, security and economic growth. Brief bio: When in Congress, Tom Garrett would be known to state: “I represent the fifth Congressional District of Virginia where the first representative elected to serving Congress was a man named James Madison who drafted the Constitution of the United States and where our third president Thomas Jefferson lived when he drafted the following words. We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal and endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights and that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Tom Garrett serves in the Virginia House of Delegates representing the great people of the 56th District. Delegate Tom Garrett earned his Bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond. After the University of Richmond, Tom Garrett became an artillery officer in the United States Army. Achieving the rank of Captain, Tom led soldiers overseas—most notably while deployed in Bosnia. Upon returning to the States, Tom earned his J.D. from the University of Richmond and quickly became an Assistant Attorney General for Virginia. In 2016, Tom was elected to represent Virginia's 5th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. While in Congress, Tom served on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Homeland Security Committee, Education and Workforce Committee. An expert on Iran and the Middle East, Tom Garrett's analysis and insights are enlightening as America's foreign policy and national security concerns are focused on a strategic region adversely impacted by Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism. americasrt.com https://ileaderssummit.org/ | https://jerusalemleaderssummit.com/ America's Roundtable on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/americas-roundtable/id1518878472 X: @GarrettInExile @ileaderssummit @americasrt1776 @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk @JTitMVirginia America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable radio program focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 68 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Tune into WTON in Central Virginia on Sunday mornings at 9:30 A.M. (ET). Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

Episode 285-Nappen Law Firm Does Hat Trick Also Available OnSearchable Podcast Transcript Gun Lawyer — Episode Transcript Page – 1 – of 10 Gun Lawyer — Episode 285 Transcript SUMMARY KEYWORDS Appellate Division, firearm licensing, Bergen County, mental health, due process, public health, safety, welfare, falsification, character and temperament, court reversal, pro se, legal representation, gun rights, grassroots advocacy. SPEAKERS Speaker 3, Evan Nappen, Teddy Nappen Evan Nappen 00:16 I’m Evan Nappen. Teddy Nappen 00:19 And I’m Teddy Nappen. Evan Nappen 00:21 And welcome to Gun Lawyer. Well, I’m very proud to report that my firm, particularly my brother Louis, who does our appellate work, has won yet another Appellate Division appeal out of Bergen County. Now, this is the Appellate Court reviewing the trial court in Bergen County, handling firearm licensing. And this is another win that really makes some excellent legal points here that are very significant and also points out what is been going on in that county. I want to get into this case and explain the significance and how it works here in New Jersey. Evan Nappen 01:23 So, this case just came, just got posted online by the Appellate Division and is entitled “In The Matter Of The Appeal Of The Denial Of J.L.B.’s Application For A Firearms Purchaser Identification Card And Permit To Purchase A Handgun”. (https://www.njcourts.gov/system/files/court-opinions/2026/a0464-24.pdf) So, J.L.B. appealed from an Order denying his appeal from the New Milford Police Department who denied his application for an FPIC and a PPH, a Firearm Purchaser ID Card and Permit to Purchase a Handgun. Now, on this application, J.L.B. answered “no” to the question, Have you ever been attended, treated or observed by any doctor, psychiatrist in the hospital or mental institution on an inpatient or outpatient basis for any mental or physical or psychiatric condition? In denying the application, the New Milford PD cited solely a suicidal comment made by J.L.B.’s daughter several years prior, and their inability to obtain records from the Division of Child Protection Services, the DCPP. Milford PD concluded the issuance of the permits to our client would not be in the interest of “public health, safety, or welfare”, the all inclusive miscellaneous weasel clause. Evan Nappen 03:07 J.B.L., our client, filed an appeal to the law division, which is the Superior Court in Bergen. And he did this pro se. He did that by himself. The Court denied his appeal, and the court found him disqualified, Page – 2 – of 10 pursuant to (N.J.S.) 2C:58-3(c), for knowingly falsifying information on the application pursuant to 2C:58-3(c)(5). and for lacking character and temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm. The Appellate Court, upon careful review, reversed and remanded for a hearing before a different trial judge because they found there is no evidence in the record demonstrating that J.L.B. knowingly falsified information on his application. Further, that J.L.B. was not given notice of the 3(c)(5) disqualifier until after he had already presented his closing argument, in violation of his rights to due process. Evan Nappen 04:18 Additionally, the trial court failed to address whether the alleged falsification was made knowingly, as required by the statute. Very important, folks. Furthermore, with respect to N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3(c)(5), the Court’s reasoning provided no meaningful explanation as to why the issuance of an FPIC to J.L.B. would be contrary to public health, safety, or welfare. So, one GOFU right out of the box is don’t go Pro Se to Bergen County on an appealable license. Anytime you’re dealing with the courts, you want to have an attorney. Okay? That’s number one. Now, even though he got denied, fortunately, he hired us to do the appeal. And in doing this appeal, the Appellate Court has reversed his denial, sent it back to the court, and required that it be heard by a different judge. Evan Nappen 05:21 Let’s take a look at some of the facts here in this case. It’s very interesting, particularly how the court decided it, because it can have impact on other cases. So, the Court gathered the following facts from the trial court’s hearing. J.L.B. is a certified public accountant with no criminal history. He has primary custody of his seven children, who range from six to 16. In April of 2020, his daughter, who was nine years old, sent a text message to her teacher, saying, “I want to die” and “I spent four days with dad, and four days with my mom, and I keep switching until everything is settled. But I can’t sleep without knowing if mommy is okay and safe.” The message led to the daughter receiving several months of therapy. The DCPP was involved in the family’s life on three different occasions, each time, deeming the allegations “Not Established”. Evan Nappen 06:19 J.L.B.’s ex-wife testified on behalf of the State, describing alleged incidents of verbal and physical abuse by J.L.B. against her and her two children, as well as her struggles with alcoholism, for which she completed inpatient rehabilitation. The wife never testified or obtained a, never filed or obtained a Temporary Restraining Order against J.L.B. The court found her testimony not completely credible and characterized it as totally based on hearsay. J.L.B.’s sister testified as a character witness, describing his demeanor and relationship with his family, expressing no concerns about him owning a firearm. Dr. Richard Cyriacks, a family friend, similarly, testified that he had no concerns about J.L.B. responsibly handling a firearm. J.L.B. testified he had purchased a biometric firearm safe in which he intended to store the firearm if his permits were granted. J.L.B. testified he had seen a psychologist, a Doctor Lenzi, from 2018 to 2022 for marital issues, but he denied ever being diagnosed with a mental health condition or receiving psychiatric treatment or medication. Briefly, at around age 19, he had also seen a therapist following the death of his father. Page – 3 – of 10 Evan Nappen 07:42 Following this testimony, the State moved to compel the release of his mental health records from Dr. Lenzi, which the Court granted. So, keep in mind, folks, if you think you have medical privacy in New Jersey, you don’t! Okay? The Court ordered the records to come in. The Court admitted J.L.B.’s counseling records and a letter from Lenzi into evidence, from the doctor. In her letter, the doctor noted that she first saw him in 2017 for “marital difficulties”. “He presented as concerned about his marriage and stressed but positive and high functioning.” He reconnected for individual therapy in 2020 because of his wife taking the children to Connecticut, causing him distress. He was seen on an as-needed basis. The doctor reported his symptoms were within normal limits of chronic stressors and the family crisis he worked through during the treatment with him. She further reported that she observed no unstable mental health issues, and his treatment focused on implementing stress management strategies, communication, awareness, improvement and relationship building with the children, decreasing internal anxiety and meeting his challenges in an aware and grounded manner as to the records themselves. Lenzi wrote that he had symptoms of anxiety and depression related to marital difficulties, and in 2020 a progress noted that he presented with anxiety and depression and expressed that he was devastated by what he was going through. In 2024, the Court denied J.L.B.’s appeal, finding he was disqualified, pursuant to 2C:58-3(c)(3) for knowingly falsifying information regarding previous mental health treatment, and pursuant to 2C:58-3(c)(5) for lacking the character and temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm. This appeal is what followed. Evan Nappen 09:47 The court, the Appellate Court, says N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3 governs the issuance of FPICs and PPHs which it does. A person may not receive an FPIC or PPH, if they are, “known in the community in which the person lives as someone who has engaged in acts or made statements suggesting the person is likely to engage in conduct, other than justified self-defense, that would pose a danger to self or others.” Or if you’re subject to any of the other disqualifications under 58-3. Pursuant to that law, no FPIC or PPH shall be issued to any person who, and this is underlined in the opinion, knowingly falsifies any information on the application form for a handgun purchase permit or firearm purchaser ID card. Invoking FPIC/PPH disqualification when any falsification is tendered is consistent with the application’s underlying function, which is to provide information to facilitate the police chief’s background investigation. Further an FPIC application that includes, again underlined, a knowing falsehood is disqualified at the moment it is filed and cannot be rehabilitated by an admission made later. Evan Nappen 11:12 The Court then noted initially that J.B.L. did not receive notice of the 2C:58-3 issue, the falsification issue. I mean, the other issue until the State raised it at closing, which was delivered to J.B.L. after he’d already presented his closing statement. And the Court here says, “To comport with due process, a judicial hearing requires notice defining the issues and an adequate opportunity to prepare and respond.” N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3(c)(3) was not cited as a basis for disqualification in the New Milford PD’s letter denial letter. It was not cited sorry. As a basis for disqualification, nor was it discussed as a potential ground for denying his appeal until both parties had presented their evidence at the hearing. J.L.B. was therefore denied the opportunity to defend himself on this ground until the hearing was all but completed. Page – 4 – of 10 Evan Nappen 12:20 Moreover, and this is important, the trial court failed to address whether JBL knowingly falsified his response. Now we’ve experienced, folks, in our practice that there are times, many times, as a matter of fact, this trifecta of a win here that we’ve had. Where the court will make any statement that they deem to be a false statement, not even over the application, to be a basis for denial. And here the court is making it clear it takes a knowingly falsified response, and it has to be based on what’s in the application. At the close of the hearings, after both parties have presented their arguments, the court pressed, pressed J.L.B. as to his understanding of the nature of his mental health treatment, his course of therapy with his doctor, and interpretation of the question on the FPIC application regarding mental or psychiatric treatment. Evan Nappen 13:19 Footnote three, and, folks, listen to what footnote three says. This is what happened in that court. Footnote three by the Appellate Court. “We note this line of questioning by the court was improper, as were other lines of questioning throughout the hearings. When presiding over a bench trial, the court may examine witnesses ‘to clarify testimony, aid the court’s understanding, elicit material facts, and assure the efficient conduct of the trial.'” “In this case, the trial court extensively cross-examined J.L.B. on multiple occasions and, in doing so, crossed ‘that fine line that separates advocacy from impartiality’ and substantially prejudiced J.L.B.’s right to a fair hearing.” And I can tell you, folks, that there are plenty of others that have experienced that in Bergen County, the court goes on in the opinion. Teddy Nappen 14:42 If I recall, isn’t Bergen, pretty much the only county where they ever go after people for falsification? Evan Nappen 14:48 No, they’re not the only county, but they are the lion’s den of problems. And this is really great, that this case is shining the light on what went on in this case. And this is now critical, so let me just go on. J.L.B. explained that he had answered “no” because he had been treated by a psychologist who held a PhD, not a psychiatrist or physician. He further stated he never received a clinical diagnosis of any mental health condition, including depression or anxiety. He was never treated with any psychiatric medication. He noted he had not seen the progress notes until they were released during the hearing, and he had begun to address why he would not know what a doctor puts in her notes before being abruptly cut off by the court. Get a load of that, folks. The trial court did not address these contentions. Instead, it relied on the doctor’s progress notes, unknown to J.L.B. at the time he filled out his application, to erroneously conclude J.L.B. suffered from anxiety and depression and he had falsely answered the questionnaire. Whether J.L.B.’s response was false, however, is a question the record before us does not resolve for the following reasons: J.L.B. was not afforded an adequate opportunity to defend himself, given the lack of notice, the record contains no clinical diagnosis of mental health conditions, nor evidence of any mental health treatment, and the doctor did not testify at the hearings. Evan Nappen 16:35 Importantly, the court’s analysis entirely ignores the statutory requirement the falsification be made knowingly. Even if J.L.B.’s response was false, he had no reason to know the contents of the doctor’s notes when he completed the application. These records were not produced until the hearings on his Page – 5 – of 10 appeal, long after the application was submitted. A finding of knowing falsification cannot rest solely on the contents of records J.L.B. had never seen. Additionally, the court also denied the appeal pursuant to 2C:58-3(c)(5), finding that no FPIC or PPH shall be issued “to any person where the issuance would not be in the interest of public health, safety or welfare. “This is the “broadest” of disqualifications for obtaining an FPIC or PPH. “In re Application of Carlstrom”, by the way, is citing another Nappen case. The provision is intended to relate to cases of individual unfitness, even though not dealt with in specific statutory enumerations, the issuance of a permit or identification guard would nonetheless be contrary to public interest. Evan Nappen 17:58 The court’s reasoning in determining J.L.B. was disqualified pursuant to is as follows, and this is from the court hearing. This is the Appellate Court quoting this quote from the hearing in the Bergen County Court. This is the judge’s finding in that hearing. I also find that he’s disqualified pursuant to 58-3(c)(5), to any person where the issuance would not be in the interest of public health, safety, or welfare, because the person was found to be lacking the essential character of temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm. And that’s really due to Mr. (J.L.B.)’s testimony. Particularly his testimony before the court here today, where he minimizes his course of treatment with Dr. Lenzi, and tries to divert attention away from Dr. Lenzi’s Progress Notes, in a very long letter, which states that Mr. (J.L.B.)’s treatment, while focusing on decreasing his anxiety, and the fact that he presented with depression and anxiety, both at Intake and at various times throughout the course of his treatment. The public health, safety, and welfare doesn’t just include the public outside of (J.L.B.) household. It also includes Mr. (J.L.B.) and his children. So, that’s the court’s decision. I do find that the state has met its’ burden by preponderance of the evidence.” Evan Nappen 19:13 Then the Appellate Court says, in response to that, “This reasoning is misplaced. J.L.B.’s discussion of Dr. Lenzi’s progress notes was not an attempt to minimize his treatment or divert the court’s attention, but rather an effort to explain why those notes did not render his answer on the application knowingly false. A self-represented applicant’s attempt to contextualize his counseling records cannot support a finding of unfitness within the meaning of 2C:58-3(c)(5). Indeed, we recently rejected the notion that an applicant’s credibility or dishonesty can serve as a sole basis for disqualification pursuant to 2C:58-3(c)(5). What case are they citing? “See In the Matter of the Appeal of the Denial of Mikhail Polatov’s Application for a Firearms Purchaser ID Card.” Another Nappen win case. They’re using it to win here for our client, in which they say. Teddy Nappen 20:20 Polatov Cocktail. Evan Nappen 20:21 That’s right. That was our last show. It was on that case. Finding no correlation between the applicant’s lack of credibility and the absence of essential character or temperament that would make him more likely than not to be a danger to public health, safety, or welfare if he had a firearm. The court’s reason provides no meaningful explanation for how the record supports a finding that the issuance of a permit would be contrary to public health, safety or welfare. See Weston v. State. In the final analysis for a Page – 6 – of 10 court to sustain an administrative decision, which affects the substantial rights of a party, there must be a residuum of legal and competent evidence in the record to support it. Because the foregoing is dispositive, they declined to address the remaining arguments we made. They reverse and remand the matter for a new hearing before a different judge. This case is a great win, and we’re very proud of it. We’re very glad to have helped our client here, and it is a trifecta of three wins coming out of what goes on in Bergen County, my friends. So, beware. Learn from this and make sure you have good counsel when fighting for your gun rights. Evan Nappen 21:45 Let me tell you about our good friends at WeShoot. WeShoot is a great range in Lakewood, New Jersey. It’s the range where Teddy and I both shoot. It’s where we got our certifications and where we love to shoot. Great range, great pro shop. They’ve got fantastic firearms equipment and great training. Get your CCARE there, your certificate, so you can get your carry. Whether you’re beginner or an advanced shooter, WeShoot is a place for you. WeShoot is just wonderful. All I get is fantastic feedback from everybody that goes there. They treat everyone like family. You will love it. WeShoot is conveniently located in Lakewood, New Jersey, right off the Parkway. Easy to get to, right there in Central Jersey. It is a great resource. We need our ranges, folks. Without our ranges, you don’t have a place to shoot, and this is a great resource that you can take advantage of. Pay a visit to WeShoot. Check out their website at weshootusa.com, weshootusa.com. You will also really enjoy their website. They have the WeShoot girls. They have fantastic top of the line professional photography, and you can learn all about this wonderful experience that awaits you at our favorite range, which is WeShoot in Lakewood, New Jersey. Evan Nappen 22:31 And let me also remind you that you need to get a copy of my book, New Jersey Gun Law. It is the Bible of New Jersey gun law. It is 120 topics, all answered by question and answer in a 500 page book. That book is so big it is a weapon itself. So, get your copy today by going to EvanNappen.com, EvanNappen.com. You will help protect yourself from becoming a GOFU. You don’t want to do that. You need to know the insanity that is New Jersey gun laws. And that’s why I wrote that book, to make it as user friendly as possible for you to know. Hey, Teddy. What do you have for us today in Press Checks? Teddy Nappen 24:07 Well, as you know, Press Checks are always free, and one of the things that is always important is to keep tabs on our opponents, the gun rights suppressionists. I was perusing through EveryTown, and they put out their press release, patting themselves on the back. Everytown Gun Safety Action Fund Announces the Endorsements of Moms Demand Action volunteers for running in the offices of North Carolina and Texas. (https://www.everytown.org/press/everytown-for-gun-safety-endorses-first-round-of-moms-demand-action-volunteersrunning-for-office-in-2026/) And they were, you know, it’s various people seems that are running in these districts because they’re trying to attack there. You notice that they’re trying to hit like North Carolina and Texas, specifically in those areas, because they’re trying to counteract a lot of the fights going on in all the other states. Page – 7 – of 10 Teddy Nappen 24:56 We all know the Democrats, their polling is lower than Trump’s and the entire Republican Party. They’re at the lowest point. You can cut to Harry Enten on CNN, who is just the golden retriever of CNN, freaking out at the numbers every time. But what I love, what actually caught my eye was what was highlighted. They were talking about the Everytown Victory Fund. Back in 2021 they launched a program known as Demand a Seat, an educational program that trains, quote, unquote, grassroots volunteers and gun violence survivors to take next steps in their advocacy efforts by running them for offices and working on campaigns. They highlight 1200 volunteers across 47 states. Operating and trying to claim and move into these positions. Teddy Nappen 25:55 So, stop right there. Here are the sycophants, individuals that are politically driven in removing and taking away our rights and trying to run in small localities. This is the game they play. This is how they chip away at our rights, and this is where they’re targeting elections. And you know their endowment of money, funding by Bloomberg of his actions. Where does this pan out? To see the results, cut to Virginia. If anyone’s been paying attention on that end, the insanity of gun laws that were rolled out by, was it Shinebomb? Of all the insanity that they were trying to pump out through the legislation, that giant omnibus. Remember, they ran a moderate campaign and then what? Evan Nappen 26:47 Well, this is what they do. They make believe they’re moderates, when in fact, they’re extremists. They’re a wolf in sheep’s clothing when it comes to our rights. Teddy Nappen 26:57 Correct. And right here, they’re even bragging about it right on there. DemandASeat.org. On their whole website, 13 Moms Demand Action volunteers elected into the Virginia House. Evan Nappen 27:10 Get a load of that. They got 13 fanatical anti-gunners into the legislature. And why aren’t we running a counter program to get pro Second Amendment rights’ candidates from the grassroots to run? Where’s our candidates? Teddy Nappen 27:34 Here they’re out spending NRA’s 31,000 in the Virginia elections. So, it’s very much we need people. If anyone is out there who has time and ability to run locally, it could be anything on that in the positions. Evan Nappen 27:51 Yeah, anything. Teddy Nappen 27:52 You can be anything. Evan Nappen 27:53 Yes, I agree. Get active. Page – 8 – of 10 Teddy Nappen 27:57 Yeah, what ever it can be in the positions, because I’ll highlight, right now. Evan Nappen 28:02 Well, it’s the old, it’s the old thing. All politics are local, right? So this is critical. Teddy Nappen 28:09 I’ll highlight to you right here from the New Jersey Globe. This is back in 2023. National gun control group, Everytown for Gun Safety endorses five New Jersey municipal races and candidates from their grassroots organizations. (https://newjerseyglobe.com/gun-control/everytown-endorses-five-candidates-for-local-office-in-n-j/) Here we go again. So, they’ve been running this program since 2021. You can go on the website. They’re bragging about it right here. It’s the DemandASeat.org. And they train them up on the lingo that they’re pushing, the language that they need to put in bills. Whatever program they can and will activate in locals, they will do so. Any ordinance they can get away with, they will do so. That’s how you get the air gage knife out of California. They don’t care. It’s whatever. Evan Nappen 28:54 One thing. You’ve got to give the antis credit. Because they’re always conniving some other strategy to try to screw us out of our rights. They are good at it. I give them credit for that. Where’s our counterforce to this? Where is it? Teddy Nappen 29:09 Well, it comes down to this. To all gun owners, who it was. Well, I forget the percentage number that vote. And look, you have to understand this is how they get us. Because I see the U.K. I see California. That is their goal. We talked about in the last episode. If they ever get in power, if they ever find the means to do so, they will take away our rights. They will take away our ability to possess firearms. They will take away our rights to defend themselves. They have already done so in all these other places, and they continue to push for it. They will continue to push otherwise. So, you see, right now, people need to be active locally. This is where they get started every time. Evan Nappen 29:53 It’s critical, and it’s very important. Hey, Teddy, I want to tell you about this week’s GOFU, and it’s a really important one. It is a GOFU that became an epiphany to me. And I want to tell you about this. Because, you know, our GOFU is, of course, the Gun Owner Fuck Up, and it’s important to talk about these things. These are mistakes from actual cases that people make, and it can be very costly to them. Cost them their freedom, their fortune, their family, their careers, everything, and you, the listener, get to learn it for free. Well, I’ve got to tell you, folks. I just recently came across a case that has really shocked me about how this is a GOFU, and I want to tell you why. Because it has to do with the “Duty to Retreat”. Now in terms of self-defense, when it comes to the legal framework of self-defense, which falls under the heading of “justification for use of force”, justification. It’s an affirmative defense. And we talk about justification for the use of force. We can talk about non-deadly force. We can talk about deadly force. Then the law lays out when you can and can’t use force. Page – 9 – of 10 Evan Nappen 31:13 I’m not going to spend a whole, you know, three hours here explain to you the law of deadly force and force. But as all of you should be aware, New Jersey, like many other states, has provisions that even though they can allow and permit the justification for the use of deadly force and/or force, there is built into the law a check that has to be in place called “Duty to Retreat”. So, the Duty to Retreat is put into our self-defense law so that you might be justified in using, let’s say, deadly force. You might be justified in doing it, but the law says that if you can retreat with complete safety, then you’re required to do that. That’s called the Duty to Retreat. Evan Nappen 32:10 Now, what I’ve always thought about this, I’ve always realized that, look, what type of self-defense scenario would you be in where you know you’re in a life and death situation, or something where you feel you need to use force, deadly force, and, or, you know, even non-deadly force, but you’re in this position where you need to use force and you somehow can retreat “with complete safety”. Like, how do you have complete safety? And I always thought, you know, short of “Beam me up, Scotty”, how are you going to have complete safety in any scenario like that? I’ve never encountered a hypothetical until now, where it’s no longer a hypothetical of where Duty to Retreat might actually be applicable. Evan Nappen 33:06 And here’s the scenario, folks. Here’s where it’s a GOFU that you better be aware of when it comes to Duty to Retreat. You’re in a situation. This is based on actual case that I know of. You’re in a situation where you are encountering a threat, a threat to your life, a threat even to possibly others. And you’re, let’s say, outside of your home, encountering such a threat. And then in that encounter of the threat, you retreat into your home. Shut the door. The threat is outside. You’re inside. You arm yourself inside, perfectly lawful at that stage. What should you do? You should call the police. That’s what you do. You call the police. You’re in your home. You’ve gotten away from the threat. Evan Nappen 34:12 Where’s the GOFU? Well, in this case, leaving your home to re-engage the threat. No, no, no. You just retreated with complete safety. You now could even call the police. You now have armed yourself to protect yourself in your home. You go back out there to re-engage a threat. That’s a problem, folks. Potentially a big problem. Potentially an argument that could raise your failure to abide by Duty to Retreat. It’s a possibility, and it’s a strong possibility. So, what’s the GOFU? Once you’ve gotten away from the threat, stay away from the threat! That’s the takeaway. You got away from the threat. Stay away from the threat. Call the police. Do not take it into your own hands. Do not re-engage. You’ve escaped the threat. Leave it at that. That’s the important thing. To do otherwise may, in fact, be a giant GOFU. Evan Nappen 35:32 This is Evan Nappen and Teddy Nappen reminding you that gun laws don’t protect honest citizens from criminals. They protect criminals from honest citizens. Page – 10 – of 10 Speaker 3 35:43 Gun Lawyer is a CounterThink Media production. The music used in this broadcast was managed by Cosmo Music, New York. New York. Reach us by emailing Evan@gun.lawyer. The information and opinions in this broadcast do not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state. Downloadable PDF TranscriptGun Lawyer S5 E285_Transcript About The HostEvan Nappen, Esq.Known as “America's Gun Lawyer,” Evan Nappen is above all a tireless defender of justice. Author of eight bestselling books and countless articles on firearms, knives, and weapons history and the law, a certified Firearms Instructor, and avid weapons collector and historian with a vast collection that spans almost five decades — it's no wonder he's become the trusted, go-to expert for local, industry and national media outlets. Regularly called on by radio, television and online news media for his commentary and expertise on breaking news Evan has appeared countless shows including Fox News – Judge Jeanine, CNN – Lou Dobbs, Court TV, Real Talk on WOR, It's Your Call with Lyn Doyle, Tom Gresham's Gun Talk, and Cam & Company/NRA News. As a creative arts consultant, he also lends his weapons law and historical expertise to an elite, discerning cadre of movie and television producers and directors, and novelists. He also provides expert testimony and consultations for defense attorneys across America. Email Evan Your Comments and Questions  talkback@gun.lawyer Join Evan's InnerCircleHere's your chance to join an elite group of the Savviest gun and knife owners in America.  Membership is totally FREE and Strictly CONFIDENTIAL.  Just enter your email to start receiving insider news, tips, and other valuable membership benefits.   Email (required) *First Name *Select list(s) to subscribe toInnerCircle Membership Yes, I would like to receive emails from Gun Lawyer Podcast. (You can unsubscribe anytime)Constant Contact Use. Please leave this field blank.var ajaxurl = "https://gun.lawyer/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php";

Member of the Virginia House of Delegates Tom Garrett joins the show for his weekly segment. This week he talks about how crazy the No Kings marches have become.

Former Virginia Del. Nick Freitas, host of the Making the Argument podcast, fills in for Jim Geraghty on the Monday 3 Martini Lunch. Nick and Greg break down the real agenda behind the “No Kings” protests, Pennsylvania Democrats hilariously failing to honor National Women's Month, and what's really happening with the Virginia Democrats aggressive far left agenda.First, they highlight the latest series of "No Kings" protests around the U.S. this past weekend and how numerous rallies featured communist flags and banners. They also highlight how this supposedly grassroots effort is funded and carefully organized by very far left groups. Next, they get a good laugh as Democrats in Pennsylvania try to approve a resolution honoring National Women's Month. But a very simple Republican amendment ended up derailing the whole thing. We share the story and discuss how the the party that supposedly champions women ends up insulting and disrespecting them over and over again.Finally, Freitas draws on his experience in the Virginia House of Delegates to explain what's really happening as Democrats lurch far to the left and which parts of their agenda disturb him most. Nick also previews his upcoming book, The Man Book.Please visit our great sponsors:Upgrade to polished and comfortable with Mizzen & Main — get 20% off your first purchase at https://MizzenandMain.com with promo code 3ML20.Take your personal data back with Incogni—use code 3ML for 60% off an annual plan at https://Incogni.com/3MLMake this the season where no opportunity or customer slips away with Quo. Try Quo free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://Quo.com/3MLNew episodes every weekday. 

On this episode of The Arrington Gavin Show, host Arrington Gavin sits down with Former Virginia State Delegate A.C. Cordoza (R) for a candid and wide-ranging political conversation.After the Virginia Republican setbacks in the November elections, many are asking what went wrong and what the party must do to regain momentum heading into the next round of midterm elections.In this episode we discuss:

A special election is being held for the 98th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.

MeidasTouch host Ben Meiselas reports on JD Vance's disastrous speech in Wisconsin today as Trump and MAGA are crashing in the midterm polls and Meiselas speaks with Virginia Democratic Congresswoman Elaine Luria about taking back her seat in Virginia's Second Congressional District. Visit https://meidasplus.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show The Ken Harbaugh Show: https://meidasnews.com/tag/the-ken-harbaugh-show Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Virginia state lawmakers are considering eliminating a billion-dollar data center tax break to help balance the budget. This comes as local jurisdictions, including Fairfax County, continue to debate restrictions amid plans for more data centers.  Virginia State Senator Jennifer Boysko, who sits on the senate finance committee and represents Fairfax County, joined the show from Richmond to discuss lawmakers' latest proposal. Plus, she explained her opposition to Fairfax County casino legislation, which is currently moving through the Virginia House of Delegates.D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb issued a legal opinion this week Congress missed its deadline to block D.C.'s tax code changes, meaning the District can move forward with its current rates. The Attorney General's legal opinion could set up a dramatic confrontation between Congress and the city over its ability to self-govern. WAMU's Senior D.C. Politics reporter Alex Koma broke down what's going on and what could happen next. Plus, Alex gives us the latest on the wild election season in the District, including races for Mayor and for two at-large council seats.Prince George's County leaders are pushing legislation to prevent the federal government from placing a detention facility in the county. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning a detention center in Hyattsville. Prince George's County Chair Krystal Oriadha joined the show to discuss what authority the county has to stop the federal facility. Plus, what does a slew of appointments on the Prince George's County Council mean for its future?Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Bluesky: bsky.app/wamu.org

Read more from VPM News: 'Right to repair' bills die in Virginia House subcommittee  Richmond's General Assembly agenda has been a mixed bag so far        Other links:  Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism. 

Read more from VPM News: A $15 minimum wage for Virginia is within reach  Scenes from the Virginia State Capitol 2026: a dispatch    Other links:  After police reforms, Virginia traffic stops increase (VCIJ at WHRO)  Former Attorney General Miyares faces two wrongful firing lawsuits (WRIC)  In First Months as Governor, Abigail Spanberger Kicks Up Heat From the Right (The New York Times)*  Paid sick leave bill passes Virginia House of Delegates (Virginia Mercury) Dominion plans $1 billion super-high voltage line through Piedmont Virginia (Richmond Times-Dispatch)*  Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism. 

In This Episode Erin and Weer'd discuss: the US Virgin Islands defending their gun prohibition in a very... special... way; the US Attorney for the District of Columbia is fighting for, and allegedly against, gun control laws in the District; Canada's "voluntary gun buy back", where the buying back is voluntary but the disposal isn't; the passage of an assault weapons ban in the Virginia House of Representatives, with a Senate bill close behind; and an attempted robbery or kidnapping on a Chilean highway shows why you always need to remember that you are in a car! Xander gives us his Independent Thoughts on holster selection; and Weer'd welcomes back James Fodor of The Science of Everything Podcast to talk about the culture shock of moving from Australia to America. Did you know that we have a Patreon? Join now for the low, low cost of $4/month (that's $1/podcast) and you'll get to listen to our podcast on Friday instead of Mondays, as well as patron-only content like mag dump episodes, our hilarious blooper reels and film tracks. Main Topic Remember that you are in a car U.S. Virgin Islands Attorney General Uses Bizarre Defense in Response to DOJ Lawsuit Over Gun Laws Jeanine Pirro isn't helping Trump's troubles with gun rights activists Canada's Massive 'Voluntary' Gun Buyback Program Comes With Prison Time Virginia House passes assault weapons bill amid cost, equity questions Independent Thoughts with Xander Fobus CZ Duty Holster The Kenai Chest Holster Morakniv Craftline Basic 511 High Carbon Steel Fixed Blade Utility Knife SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders Filtered Earplugs The Science of Everything The Science of Everything: Gun Control James Fodor Youtube James Fodor: Patreon British Baked Beans Vegemite  

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

"Give me liberty, or give me death!" is a quotation attributed to Patrick Henry (1736-99) from a speech he made to the Virginia Convention in 1775, at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia, he is credited with having swung the balance in convincing the Virginia House of Burgesses to pass a resolution delivering the Virginia troops to the Revolutionary War. Among the delegates to the convention were future U.S. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Patrick Henry's "Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death" Speech at https://amzn.to/4oGsyga Patrick Henry Books available at https://amzn.to/4rLCIin ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPOaRT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORICAL JESUS podcast is available at https://parthenonpodcast.com/historical-jesus Mark's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio Credit: The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (Librivox, read by G. Giordano).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MeidasTouch host Ben Meiselas reports on how the Virginia House and Senate controlled by Democrats are responding to the United States Supreme Court ruling allowing Texas to keep its gerrymandered maps and it seems Virginia may be looking to create a 10-1 map for Democratic congressional seats and Meiselas speaks with the Virginia Speaker of the House of Delegates Don Scott. Visit https://meidasplus.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast⁠ Legal AF: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af⁠ MissTrial: ⁠https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial⁠ The PoliticsGirl Podcast: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast⁠ Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan⁠ Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen⁠ The Weekend Show: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show⁠ Burn the Boats: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats⁠ Majority 54: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54⁠ Political Beatdown: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown⁠ On Democracy with FP Wellman: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman⁠ Uncovered: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim, Phil, & Elaad are joined by Nick Freitas to discuss Candace Owens implying TPUSA was behind assassination of Charlie Kirk, Sabrina Carpenter losing it over the White House using her song, NYT debunking the Hegseth Narco Bombing hoax, and the GOP winning the special election in Tennessee.   Hosts:  Tim @Timcast (everywhere) Phil @PhilThatRemains (X) Elaad @ElaadEliahu (X) Producer: Serge @SergeDotCom (everywhere) Guest: Nick Freitas @NickJFreitas (X) Nick Freitas is an American Republican politician, former U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, and social media influencer who has served in the Virginia House of Delegates since 2016.

“The Chair Recognizes” With November's stinging election results not even a month behind the Virginia GOP, their chairman, State Sen. Mark Peake, announced that he will be stepping down. Peake told me that he's leaving his post at the end of December because he wanted to make sure he could devote his full effort in the Virginia Senate to defeating the redistricting referendum before it needs a special election. He also said that the Republican Party requires a chairman who can devote a similar amount of energy to getting out the vote should it make it to a Spring special election, and beyond that, helping win whatever districts there will be come November's midterms. Peake stepped in after longtime chair Rich Anderson earned a post as assistant secretary of the Air Force.  Cameron Hamilton has announced that he wants the State Central Committee to consider him. Hamilton mounted a challenge for the GOP nomination in Virginia's 7th Congressional District in 2024 and his wife Karen was just elected to Virginia's House of Delegates from the 62nd District, succeeding the retired Nick Freitas.  Some other frontrunners for the chairmanship include current chairs of Virginia's 1st, 5th, and 6th congressional districts. They are Jeff Ryer, Rick Buchanan, and John Massoud respectively.  Ryer has helped Rep. Rob Wittman win reelection in a very competitive district while even outperforming statewide and national Republicans. Buchanan led the 5th District through the tumultuous (and expensive) primary battle between challenger John McGuire and incumbent Rep. Bob Good. Buchanan also pulled the district together to deliver a 15% victory for McGuire in the general election.  Massoud has helped Rep. Ben Cline build a strong base that supports him at a better-than-60% clip and has also managed to withstand out-of-state money attempting to flip Virginia House 34th District where incumbent Tony Wilt survived the 2025 “blue wave.”  Would Loudon County GOP chair Scott Pio try again for the chairman position? He has been vocal on social media about the need for a change and called for Peake to step down in the wake of the Democrat sweep of the statewide races and a 14-seat “flip” in the house. He was a candidate for the position when Anderson departed and lost to Peake at the State Central Committee vote.  Keep Up With The Daily Signal   Sign up for our email newsletters:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.dailysignal.com/email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠     Subscribe to our other shows:    The Tony Kinnett Cast: ⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2284199939⁠ The Signal Sitdown: ⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2026390376⁠   Problematic Women:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL7765680741⁠   Victor Davis Hanson: ⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL9809784327⁠     Follow The Daily Signal:    X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://x.com/intent/user?screen_name=DailySignal⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/thedailysignal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/TheDailySignalNews/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Truth Social:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://truthsocial.com/@DailySignal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/dailysignal?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Virginia House of Delegates will be losing 13 Republican incumbents when the next General Assembly gavels into session. Michael Pope has this look at the delegates who will be saying goodbye.

We took the Politics Hour on the road this week, broadcasting live from Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax, Virginia.U.S. Representative James Walkinshaw (D-VA11) joined Kojo and Tom first on stage.With elections and the government shutdown in the rearview mirror, we turned to what the future holds for the commonwealth. Federal cuts continue to affect Northern Virginia's economy, but perhaps not in the way some initially feared. As Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger prepares to take office in January, many Virginia Democrats believe the party's big wins in statewide elections should translate to an aggressive legislative agenda. Statewide leaders are also moving forward with redistricting. Rep. Walkinshaw discussed what all of this means for Virginia's future, including the 2026 midterms.Then, former member of the Virginia House of Delegates and member of Gov.-elect Spanberger's transition team Republican David Ramadan took the mic to talk about the challenges Spanberger could face as governor, why a Democrat election sweep does not mean a mandate, and the legislative debates we can expect in 2026.Sorting political fact from fiction, and having fun while we're at it. Join us for our weekly review of the politics, policies, and personalities of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia live at Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax!Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Bluesky: bsky.app/wamu.org

[This blog will always be free to read, but it's also how I pay my bills. If you have suggestions or feedback on how I can earn your paid subscription, shoot me an email: cmclymer@gmail.com. And if this is too big of a commitment, I'm always thankful for a simple cup of coffee.]For the past eighteen months, a favorite talking point of legacy political pundits is that Democrats have a young male voter problem. It's been incessant and so ubiquitous that you'd be led to believe—based on the commentary—that Democratic candidates had all but told young men they don't want their votes.Last November, one of the biggest stories coming out of the election was that Democrats are lackluster in their outreach to young men. There had been too much focus on young women (defending bodily autonomy and talking about the need for paid family leave is, apparently, “too much focus” on young women).Legacy pundits (mostly straight, white men) had ideas on how to solve this crisis. They said the left needs a Joe Rogan type. They said Democrats should “moderate” on issues like trans equality. They opined that the Democratic Party had become too feminized.Remember James Carville ranting about “preachy females” and claiming that women's empowerment in messaging is somehow a dealbreaker? As far as I can tell, none of the big Democratic winners from last night got these histrionic memos from the legacy pundit class. Not Virginia Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger. Not New Jersey Gov-elect Mikie Shirrell. Not NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. None of the baker's dozen of Democrats who increased the party's majority in the Virginia House of Delegates. None of them.There were no special ads cut begging for young men specifically to vote for them or radio spots stumbling through a weak Rogan impression or comprehensive plans published by these campaigns addressing young men. Hell, not only did Zohran Mamdani reject their advice, but he released an ad dedicated to the proud history of trans advocacy in New York City. And not even during Pride Month! He just put it out there late in the campaign like a reckless lunatic.So, how did these candidates do with young men? According to NBC exit polling:Abigail Spanberger won 58 percent of male voters aged 18-29 and just edged out her Republican opponent among male voters aged 30-44. In fact, she damn near won the overall male vote, regardless of age — 49 percent. And she did this while flipping a swing state.Mikie Shirrell won 57 percent of male voters aged 18-29 and 62 percent among male voters aged 30-44. Likewise, she barely lost the overall male vote — 49 percent.Zohran Mamdani won 67 percent of male voters aged 18-29 and 67 percent among male voters aged 30-44. A full two-thirds of all young male voters. He won half of the male vote overall — exactly 50 percent.Ghazala Hashmi—the first Muslim American elected to lieutenant governor of any state—also performed well among young male voters in Virginia: 55 percent among the 18-29 bracket and 49 percent of men aged 30-44. She didn't lose by much among men overall — 46 percent.Even Jay Jones—who many predicted would lose the race for Virginia Attorney General in the wake of his texting scandal—not only defeated his Republican opponent with a comfortable overall margin but did well among male voters: 50 percent of men 18-29, 49 percent of men 30-44, and 45 percent of men overall.Did I mention that Virginia Democrats achieved their largest majority in the House of Delegates in modern history? They're on track to win 64 seats, an increase of 13, in opposition to relentless anti-trans messaging from Virginia Republicans all year. Democrats clearly won young men last night. There is no debate over this. The numbers are loud and unyielding. They didn't do it by pandering to young men. They didn't do it by begging in broken fratboy speak. They didn't do it by treating young men like special little boys who need their hands held. They didn't do it by abandoning women and trans people.They did it by talking to young men about affordability. They talked to young men like young voters who are worried about the cost-of-living, not like men who need some dipshit masculinized pitch. That doesn't mean they didn't have fun or decline to chat with young men. Zohran Mamdani went on podcasts and chatted it up with conservative young men about the need to focus on working class families. Mikie Shirrell and Abigail Spanberger talked to young male influencers and content creators about addressing their generation's lack of enthusiasm about owning a home someday or just paying for basic needs.They didn't condescend to young men; they made them part of the solution. They told them they're essential and deserve better because they're adults living in a society where no one should get left behind — not because they're men.All of these candidates who won last night didn't shy away from talking about gender equality and LGBTQ rights. They didn't buy the ridiculous theory that doing so would alienate young men.And they were right. My god, were they right. Stick that in your pipe and smoke it, Mr. Carville.Charlotte's Web Thoughts is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Charlotte's Web Thoughts at charlotteclymer.substack.com/subscribe

Fairfax Democrat Dan Helmer led the campaign to expand his party's majority in the Virginia House of Delegates. He speaks with WAMU about Democrats' big wins in Virginia.

Democrats in Virginia's House of Delegates picked up 13 seats in Tuesday’s election. During a news conference Wednesday morning, leadership in both parties offered their reasons for the dramatic gains. Brad Kutner has this story.

When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one newsletter to produce an audio version, than this shall be what happens. As in, this a stand-alone audio edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement, a newsletter produced by Town Crier Productions with information about growth, development, government, and the occasional attempt at humor. I'm Sean Tubbs, encouraging readers to become listeners, listeners to become readers, and glad you're here either way.On this edition of the program:* The Virginia Senate follows the Virginia House of Delegates in advancing a Constitutional amendment to allow for a one-time redrawing of Congressional districts (House story) (Senate story below)* A preview of two readings coming up this month from the poet and author MaKshya Tolbert (story below)* Charlottesville design panel approves design for fence at Downtown Mall business, though Council must approve special exception (read the story)* Work continues to prepare candidate projects for VDOT's next Smart Scale Round (read the story)* Greene Supervisors briefed on innovation corridor planning (read the story)* Council signs off on revenue-sharing application for sidewalk in Meadows neighborhood (learn more)Charlottesville Community Engagement is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.First shout-out: Westwind FlowersFall is in full bloom at Westwind Flowers! With the crisp autumn air settling in, they're celebrating the season with fresh, local blooms perfect for every occasion.And as the holidays approach, let Westwind Flowers bring local beauty to your celebrations. Dress up your Thanksgiving table with seasonal blooms, gift your host or hostess with a gorgeous indoor plant, or join us for one of our Holiday Wreath Workshops on November 29th or December 6th. Create your own festive wreath, from the base to the finishing touch, with expert guidance and fresh, locally grown greenery.Westwind Flowers offers sustainably grown, thoughtfully curated cut flowers, perfectly suited to the season and the special moments in your life. They believe the blooms in your vase should be just as fresh, and just as local, as the food on your table. Visit their website to learn more!Virginia Senate passes first reference of Constitutional amendment to allow mid-Census redistrictingThe Virginia General Assembly has taken the first step towards amending the state constitution in order to allow for a one-time redrawing of Congressional boundaries to counter similar moves being made elsewhere.Democrats hold the majority in both the House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate, and Republicans in both chambers objected to the process, arguing there was not sufficient notice to voters and that at least a million people have already cast their ballots in early voting. A lawsuit has been filed and the first hearing is on November 5, a day after the election.Article XII of the Virginia Constitution describes how that document can be changed. Section 1 explains that both houses of the General Assembly must first adopt a resolution. Then an election has to take place in the House of Delegates. Then the General Assembly has to vote on the resolution a second time before it goes to the voters in a referendum.Amendments to the Virginia Constitution are fairly common with the last one approved by voters in 2024. Over 92 percent of the electorate approved a proposal to extend tax exemptions to spouses of soldiers killed in the line of duty.In 2020, two-thirds of the electorate voted to establish an eight member Virginia Redistricting Commission which would take over the process of establishing legislative districts from the General Assembly.In the final week of October 2025, Republicans argued in committee meetings and from the House and Senate floor that this amendment counters the will of the people. Democrats argued the step is necessary to counter a presidency that is acting beyond its power by asking other states to change their rules.This story covers the Virginia Senate debate on October 31.For more background, go back and read these two stories:* Virginia General Assembly has begun consideration of Congressional redistricting during special session, October 29, 2025* Constitutional amendment for Virginia redistricting passes House, awaits action in Senate, October 31, 2025The Senate took up House Joint Resolution 6007 the Friday morning of Halloween. The day before, the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee approved the amendment on an 8 to 6 vote.Before the full debate, there were three requests to amend the resolution including one from Senator Christoper Head that would have required the mid-Census boundary change to go through the Virginia Redistricting Commission. Those failed on partisan lines, and three Republican members were not present.A long debate over the resolution kicked off when Senator Aaron Rouse (D-22) made a motion for its adoption. He said the amendment would give Virginians a chance to weigh in with their vote on whether the lines should be redrawn.“We do see evidence that the system is being rigged by a wannabee dictator out of Washington,” Rouse said. “During this Republican shutdown we've seen this dictator be enabled by a coequal but separate branch of government. Virginians may have something to say about that.”Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16) was one of the patrons for the Constitutional amendment that set up the Virginia Redistricting Commission. He said Republican claims that the amendment would eliminate the body are false.“That's not what this is and that's not what we're doing,” VanValkenburg said. “Today we are taking a truly proportional response to an extreme situation. The current outbreak of opportunistic mid-decade redistricting means that we are in a truly unprecedented, Constitutional norm breaking time.”Senator Glen Sturtevant (R-12) said the resolution is a betrayal of voters in part because over a million people had already voted.“That's not reform, that's reversal,” Sturtevant said. “It's not transparency, it's a power grab. It's been rushed. It's been secretive. And it is purposely timed to avoid accountability in this election.”Senator J.D. “Danny” Diggs (R-24) said the Constitution is intended to be updated every ten years to accommodate for population shifts.“This amendment is being proposed not to protect our citizens or to make our government better,” Diggs said. “This amendment is about increasing the political power of the Democrat party. It has an expiration date so that if the political winds change, the Republican party can't do the same thing in a few years.”Senator Luther Cifers (R-10), elected earlier this in a special election to replace John McGuire, took issue with Democrats advancing the process in late October, over a month after early voting had begun. Some voters might have changed vote if they had known the General Assembly would take this action.“It appears to be well-established that the intent of the intervening election in the Constitutional amendment process is so that voters can respond at the ballot box between the two passages of an amending resolution,” Cifers said.Senator Christie New Craig (R-19) said the resolution is intended to advance national interests rather than those of Virginia's.“The timing of H.J. 6007, positioned as an urgent matter, was not authored based on constituent demands,” New Craig said. “It was authored based on instructions from national leadership.”Senator Mark Peake (R-22) echoed comments made by Delegate Lee Ware (R-72) during debate in the House of Delegates.“Texas embarking on a mid-decade redistricting was probably not a good idea but because they have embarked on that endeavor doesn't mean we have to engage in the endeavor,” Peake said.One argument made by Republicans is that the resolution does not pass legal muster because it doesn't follow language in state code that requires court clerks to post a public notice of a pending Constitutional amendment 90 days before an election. Senator Head said that has not been followed.“There's no way we can do this,” Head said. “I mean you can do this today. You're going to do this today. We know that you're going to do this today. It's going to get the 21 votes. You're going to pass it because you're not paying attention to what people are screaming about out there or any of the arguments that are valid that any of us are going to have made.”Senator Mamie Locke (D-23) said Republicans making arguments about her party taking national direction were hypocritical and they would be doing something similar if they controlled the General Assembly.“Be assured if the proverbial shoe was on the other foot, a directive from D.C. to the Governor would have been adhered to, quick, fast, and in a hurry to undo the Constitutional amendment in Virginia mid-stream and not one of you would be talking about the sanctity of the bipartisan redistricting commission or the needs of the voters or respect for the will of the people,” Locke said.Locke said the federal government has been transformed by executive orders from the White House which have been followed by Virginia's executive branch.Senator Barbara Favola (D-40) called the resolution one of hope that would give Virginia voters another opportunity to weigh in on a presidency that is bending the rules of the U.S. Constitution.“That's what this is,” Favola said. “We're not redrawing anything today. We're not doing anything magical. We're saying to voters, if this goes through the process we've laid out, and we've explained that multiple times, should the Constitutional amendment go to the voters, they will have the final say. We are in no way undermining the principles that all of us have stood for.”Senator Scott Surovell (D-34) said the resolution is necessary to combat an unprecedented attempt to change Congressional boundaries to keep Republicans in power no matter what.“This is a coordinated national strategy to grab power,” Surovell said. “The fundamental power problem that we are giving ourselves the option to address is that Virginia cannot fight with one hand tied behind its back.”Surovell said a mid-census redistricting is not ideal but is necessary to have as an option as more Republican-controlled states adjust their boundaries.“What do you do when one side refuses to play by the rules?” Surovell asked. “Do you maintain principles and accept defeat? Or do you recognize that preserving democracy sometimes requires tools you find distasteful to prevent permanent entrenchment of minority rule? We owe it to our constituents to have this conversation. We owe it to democracy to consider all of the options.”Soon after, the resolution was adopted 21 to 16. The Senate adjourned about an hour later.Now what? There's an election on Tuesday. There's always something to pay attention to.MaKshya Tolbert reads two poems from Shade is a PlaceThere are more stories about the mechanics of government coming up later in this edition of the program. But first, let's take a quick break to hear a poem from MaKshya Tolbert. They're the 2025 Art in Library Spaces Artist-in-Residence at the University of Virginia as well as a former Chair of other.Tolbert has two events coming up as part of the launch of their National Poetry Series-winning debut poetry collection It's called SHADE IS A PLACE and it is on sale November 4 from Penguin BooksHere's Ways to Measure Trees, originally published in Poem-a-Day on February 11, 2025, by the Academy of American Poets.Tolbert will lead a public shade walk on the Downtown Mall at 4:45 p.m. with New City Arts on November 4 with a reception and artist talk at 6 p.m. followed by a book signing at the Welcome Gallery at 114 3rd St. NE. The shade walk begins at the Free Expression Monument. (learn more)On November 15, Tolbert will discuss SHADE IS A PLACE, in conversation with Lisa Russ Spaar, from 7:00pm-8:00pm, New Dominion Bookshop. (learn more). 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

A first look at cannabis sales in Virginia sheds light on pot preferences in the commonwealth; and a technology overhaul means layoffs for Goochland-based CarMax.  Read more House of Delegates passes redistricting amendment Tazewell judge denies injunction against GA redistricting effort Blue Ridge Area Food Bank reports record levels of food insecurity Note: VPM's Fall 2025 membership campaign is ongoing now through Oct. 31. ⁠⁠Click or tap here to see our matching challenges.⁠⁠  Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit ⁠⁠vpm.org/donate⁠⁠ to support local journalism. 

WMAL GUEST: NICK FREITAS (Republican Member of the Virginia House of Delegates) WEBSITE: NickForVA.com SOCIAL MEDIA: X.com/NickJFreitas Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 7 AM hour, Larry O’Connor and Julie Gunlock discussed: WMAL GUEST: JOHN REID (Republican Nominee for Lt. Governor of Virginia) on Next Week's Elections CNN: Trump Asia Diplomacy Tour WMAL GUEST: NICK FREITAS (Republican Member of the Virginia House of Delegates) on the Mess in Richmond ON X: AOC Clashes With Riley Gaines Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Virginia House of Delegates' money committee met Monday morning. While representatives from the governor painted a rosy picture of the Commonwealth's financial future, uncertainty continues to plague economic forecasts. Brad Kutner has this report. 

On Friday, National Review published text messages from former Virginia House of Delegates member Jay Jones (D) sent to a Republican colleague — House Delegate Carrie Coyner — in 2022. In the messages, Jones expresses disdain for Virginia House Speaker Todd Gilbert (R), then says that he would shoot Gilbert in a hypothetical scenario where he could kill either him or dictators Pol Pot and Adolf Hitler. Jones went on to suggest that he wanted Gilbert's children to die from gun violence because it might prompt the speaker to change his stance on gun control. You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Take the survey: Do you think Jay Jones should drop out of the race? Let us know.Disagree? That's okay. My opinion is just one of many. Write in and let us know why, and we'll consider publishing your feedback.Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Lindsey Knuth, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Americans don't talk about state attorney generals very much. Technically it's “attorneys general”—like “sisters-in-law” instead of “sister-in-laws”—but don't get hung up on the wording. It's what AGs actually do that matters so much.A state attorney general is basically the top legal expert in their state; they're also known as The People's Lawyers because they fight for us, their constituents, against bad actors who don't have our best interests in mind. That can mean prosecuting companies that are polluting waterways or landlords who are illegally raising rent prices or banks that are selling people's private data. Sometimes state AGs band together on lawsuits, like a recent case against Purdue Pharma for aggressively pushing medications like OxyContin and contributing to the opioid crisis we're facing in this country.Unfortunately, we also have a lot of examples of the harm that a corrupt or extremist attorney general can do. (Ken Paxton, for example) But the good news is, we the people have the power to elect them. In all but seven states (AK, HI, NH, NJ, WY, TN, & ME), voters choose their AG at the ballot box. Most attorneys general are up for election in 2026 or 2028, and in one pivotal state, Virginia, voters will get to elect a new attorney general in just a couple of months.This November, Jay Jones—a lawyer and former member of the Virginia House of Delegates—will square off against the current Virginia Attorney General, Jason Miyares. Miyares is a Republican and a supporter of Donald Trump, campaigning for him and supporting his policies.If you live in Virginia, be sure you come to the polls in November prepared to vote for attorney general. And if you don't live in Virginia, chances are you'll have the chance to vote for your own AG very soon! It's not just about rejecting extremism. It's about choosing a “People's Lawyer” who actually works for the people.For a transcript of this episode, please email comms@redwine.blue. You can learn more about us at www.redwine.blue or follow us on social media! Twitter: @TheSWPpod and @RedWineBlueUSA Instagram: @RedWineBlueUSA Facebook: @RedWineBlueUSA YouTube: @RedWineBlueUSA

Americans don't talk about state attorney generals very much. Technically it's “attorneys general”—like “sisters-in-law” instead of “sister-in-laws”—but don't get hung up on the wording. It's what AGs actually do that matters so much.A state attorney general is basically the top legal expert in their state; they're also known as The People's Lawyers because they fight for us, their constituents, against bad actors who don't have our best interests in mind. That can mean prosecuting companies that are polluting waterways or landlords who are illegally raising rent prices or banks that are selling people's private data. Sometimes state AGs band together on lawsuits, like a recent case against Purdue Pharma for aggressively pushing medications like OxyContin and contributing to the opioid crisis we're facing in this country. The company settled for $7.4 billion dollars just this past January, which means billions of dollars that can now be put back into treatment and prevention programs. It's a great example of how an attorney general can have a real positive impact on the people of their state.Unfortunately, we also have a lot of examples of the harm that a corrupt or extremist attorney general can do. (Ken Paxton, for example) But the good news is, we the people have the power to elect them. In all but seven states (AK, HI, NH, NJ, WY, TN, & ME), voters choose their AG at the ballot box. Most attorneys general are up for election in 2026 or 2028, and in one pivotal state, Virginia, voters will get to elect a new attorney general in just a couple of months.This November, Jay Jones—a lawyer and former member of the Virginia House of Delegates—will square off against the current Virginia Attorney General, Jason Miyares. Miyares is a Republican and a supporter of Donald Trump, campaigning for him and supporting his policies.If you live in Virginia, be sure you come to the polls in November prepared to vote for attorney general. And if you don't live in Virginia, chances are you'll have the chance to vote for your own AG very soon! It's not just about rejecting extremism. It's about choosing a “People's Lawyer” who actually works for the people.

Today's Headlines: Conservative pundit Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at a Utah Valley University event yesterday with thousands in attendance. The shooter  is still on the run despite an FBI “person of interest” briefly being detained. Utah's governor called it a political assassination, while Trump lowered flags and blamed the “radical left” without evidence. Hours later, another shooting at a Colorado high school left four hospitalized, including the gunman. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans blocked a Schumer amendment to force the DOJ to release the Epstein files—yes, the same Republicans who were once demanding them—while Democrats flipped a Virginia House seat in a special election. In economic news, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wants the U.S. to claim a share of university patents funded by federal grants (hello, communism?). Abroad, Poland accused Russia of 19 drone incursions in one night and invoked NATO's Article 4, Nepal's protests exploded into riots that toppled the prime minister, and France's government collapsed after a debt-driven no-confidence vote—booting its fifth prime minister in under two years. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Live updates: Manhunt underway after conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot dead on Utah campus CPR: Shooting at Evergreen High School leaves three students with gunshot wounds, including the suspected shooter Axios: Senate GOP blocks amendment to release Epstein files Politico: Democrats add 1 more vote in Congress after Virginia special election - Live Updates Axios: "The Axios Show" exclusive: Lutnick says U.S. should take a chunk of universities' patent revenue WaPo: What to know as Poland invokes NATO Article 4, citing Russian drone violation CNN: Trump on Russia's incursion into NATO: ‘Here we go!' CNN: A parliament in flames, a leader toppled. Nepal Gen-Z protesters ask: what comes next? Time: What Comes Next for France After Another Government Collapse Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All 100 seats of the Virginia House of Delegates are on the ballot this year, and candidates are talking about everything from environmental policy to immigration. One issue that has become important in districts with colleges and universities is higher ed. Michael Pope reports.

All 100 seats in the Virginia House of Delegates are on the ballot this year. That includes some Republican candidates facing off against familiar Democratic opponents. Michael Pope explains.

X: @JasonMiyaresVA @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk Join America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with Attorney General Jason Miyares, Commonwealth of Virginia. The conversation on America's Roundtable focuses on AG Jason Miyares's leadership in fighting opioids, reducing overdose deaths and reducing violence, thus making communitites in Virginia safer. The data released by Virginia Department of Health Office of the Chief Medical Examiner show fentanyl-related overdose deaths in Virginia declined 44 percent year-over-year and are down over 46 percent from its peak in 2021. Virginia led the nation in annual percentage declines in drug overdose deaths in 2024.   The recent celebration of America's Independence Day on July 4th 2025, reminds us of America Founding Fathers' ingenuity in creating America's Founding Documents: The Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Virginia played a historic role in the founding of the American Republic - 249 years ago. America's Founding Fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, George Mason, James Monroe, Patrick Henry and John Marshall were all Virginians. The timely discussion elevates the importance of combating anti-Semitism, and advancing principled policies based on the rule of law as well as affirming the significance of peace through strength. Bio | Jason S. Miyares (https://jasonmiyares.com/about/) Attorney General Jason Miyares' story doesn't start in Virginia Beach, Virginia, but in Havana, Cuba when his mother, Miriam Miyares, fled communist Cuba, penniless and homeless. She taught Jason a love for freedom, democracy, and that America is indeed the “last best hope on earth.” A product of Virginia public schools, Jason graduated with a Bachelor's in Business Administration from James Madison University and received his J.D. from the College of William and Mary School of Law. He previously served as a prosecutor in the Virginia Beach Commonwealth's Attorney Office, where he worked alongside law enforcement to keep violent criminals off our streets and our communities safe. In 2015, almost fifty years to the day that she fled Cuba, Miriam was able to vote for her son Jason Miyares to represent her in the oldest democracy in the Western Hemisphere, the Virginia House of Delegates. While representing Virginia Beach, Jason was recognized as “Legislator of the Year” in both 2018 and 2019 from the College Affordability and Public Trust for his work on transparency and affordability in higher education, as well as by the Hampton Roads Military Officers Association of America in 2018. He was also recognized in 2019 by the Safe House Project for his work combatting human trafficking, an issue that his administration is prioritizing. Jason Miyares is the first Cuban American elected to the General Assembly, the first Hispanic elected statewide in Virginia, and the first son of an immigrant ever elected to be Attorney General. He is passionate about preserving the American Miracle for the next generation of Virginians. americasrt.com (https://americasrt.com/) https://summitleadersusa.com/ | https://jerusalemleaderssummit.com/ America's Roundtable on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/americas-roundtable/id1518878472 X: @JasonMiyaresVA @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio program focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 68 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Tune into WTON in Central Virginia on Sunday mornings at 6:00 A.M. (ET). Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

Send us a textLifestyle Interview: Can a Swinger Win an Election? Yvonne Rorrer Thinks So | Episode 196In this episode of The Swing Nation Podcast, the top-rated podcast about non-monogamy and swinging, Dan and Lacy sit down with Yvonne Rorrer, a Democratic candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates, who recently made headlines around the world.After publicly sharing on social media that she and her husband are swingers, Yvonne sparked a wave of media attention—including a spotlight on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Dan and Lacy dive into her bold decision to live authentically in the public eye, the national reaction to her announcement, and how it's impacted her political campaign.They also discuss Yvonne's hopes for the future and her desire to be a voice for non-monogamous individuals and couples if elected. This candid and inspiring conversation breaks down stigma, champions transparency, and highlights the growing movement toward acceptance in politics and beyond.Don't miss this groundbreaking episode that blends lifestyle and leadership in a way that's never been heard before!To learn more about Yvonne or support her campaign go to: https://yvonnerorrer.com/- The Swing Nation -Main Website Quick Navigation Website: -- (Find all our social media links & more!)- Swinger Society - Our Website to meet, connect & events Swinger Society Discord Our Facebook Group- Swinger Websites -Kasadie 90 day free trialUsername: TheSwingNation SDC 14 day free trial Username: TheSwingNation** Use code 36313 for 14 days free! ** SLSUsername: NorthernGuynSouthernGirl- Merch & More -Order Your Merch Here!- Lacy's Fun Links -VIP OnlyFansPREMIUM OnlyFans-- THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS --I Know my Status : Get 15% your first test with by using promo code: "Lifestyle" https://iknowmystatus.com/ Wisp : Making sexual healthcare inclusive, cost-effective, and accessible—for everyoneUse Code SWING at checkout for 15% off your oder!Shameless Care: ED Medication and at home STD testingUse Code TSN at checkout for $30 off your order!Promescent® Make Love Longer, It's Time for Great SexUse CodeSupport the show- Thank you for the support! -

We're living in a new moment—one where truth is winning, normalcy is making a comeback, and the Left has finally overplayed its hand.In this best of episode of The Kevin Roberts Show, we revisit some of the most powerful conversations about the cultural realignment happening right now—from the role of artists and new media to the collapse of elite institutions and the spiritual hunger rising in America.Hear Andrew Klavan reflect on building conservative cultural infrastructure, John Rich on how pain awakened the American people, and Spencer Klavan on why the end of materialism may spark a revival. This episode is a roadmap for conservatives ready to press the advantage—and rebuild a culture rooted in truth, beauty, and freedom.

In this week's episode of Cultural Catalysts, Kris welcomes Anne Ferrell Tata, a delegate in the Virginia House of Delegates who is making a profound impact through faith-driven legislation. Anne Ferrell shares her remarkable journey into politics, including a divine 3 a.m. wake-up call that changed her life's direction. As the daughter of an Army chaplain and now serving her third term, Anne Ferrell reveals how her faith guides her legislative priorities in foster care, human trafficking prevention, and education reform. Join us as Anne Ferrell explains how Isaiah 58 became her guiding scripture and witness how one person's "yes" to God's call can transform systems and break cycles of poverty. Discover how building bridges between promise and possibility creates hope for the most vulnerable in our society. Connect with Anne Ferrell Tata: Website: https://teamtata.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anneferrelltata/?hl=en Connect with Kris Vallotton: Website: https://www.krisvallotton.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kvministries/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kvministries/ X: https://x.com/kvministries Additional Resources by Kris Vallotton: https://shop.bethel.com/collections/kris-vallotton About Kris Vallotton: Kris Vallotton is the Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church, Redding, and is the Co-Founder of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry (BSSM) and Spiritual Intelligence Institute. He is also the Founder and President of Moral Revolution and a sought-after international conference speaker. Kris and his wife, Kathy, have trained, developed, and pastored prophetic teams and supernatural schools all over the world.

In the 8 AM Hour: Larry O’Connor and Julie Gunlock discussed: WMAL GUEST: 8:05 AM - INTERVIEW - GEARY HIGGINS - Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates – Recapped this legislative session, his legislative priorities and what’s next SOCIAL MEDIA: https://x.com/GearyHigginsABOUT THIS SESSION OF THE VA GENERAL ASSEMBLY On the evening of Feb. 22, the Virginia General Assembly adjourned after a short, 45-day session. The session got off to a rocky start after a winter storm and power outage disrupted the water supply system in Richmond and the surrounding area, delaying the start to the session. In the beginning of the session there were nearly 2,000 bills introduced. Of those, roughly 900 are headed to the desk of Gov. Glenn Youngkin. He now has until March 24 to sign, amend or veto each of these bills. After he has done that, the general assembly will return to Richmond on April 2 to vote on the governor’s actions. The bills that the governor and both chambers agree to then become law on July 1. GEARY’S BILLS: More than 150 bills sponsored by Republicans were never given a hearing at all, including 5 of Geary’s bills – Banning Sanctuary Cities, Parent’s Bill Rights, School Safety, etc. Dems did however hear and pass a bunch of absurd bills that the Governor already vetoed last year. JAMES MONROE’S HOME: Geary is working very hard on getting James Monroe’s home, “Oak Hill”, which is in his district in Loudoun, to be a State Park. This would be huge for the Commonwealth and Nova specifically. Might be a good question to ask “Did the Democrats fail on getting this in the budget?” CBS: A plan to make James Monroe's Virginia estate a state park was rejected. Now, it's in limbo.Rosie O’Donnell says leaving US was part of therapy plan for a second Trump term WMAL GUEST: 8:35 AM - INTERVIEW - CHRISTIAN TOTO - Film critic and host of the Hollywood in Toto podcast - Discuss Snow White’s soft launch weekendSOCIAL MEDIA: https://x.com/HollywoodInTotoTOTO: ‘Snow White’s’ Box Office Collapse Suggests Ominous Trend AXIOS DC: A few days left until peak bloom Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow the Show Podcasts on Apple podcasts, Audible and Spotify. Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @Jgunlock, @patricepinkfile, and @heatherhunterdc. Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Show Website: https://www.wmal.com/oconnor-company/ How to listen live weekdays from 5 to 9 AM: https://www.wmal.com/listenlive/ Episode: Monday, March 24, 2025 / 8 AM Hour See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WMAL GUEST: 8:05 AM - INTERVIEW - GEARY HIGGINS - Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates – Recapped this legislative session, his legislative priorities and what’s next SOCIAL MEDIA: https://x.com/GearyHiggins ABOUT THIS SESSION OF THE VA GENERAL ASSEMBLY On the evening of Feb. 22, the Virginia General Assembly adjourned after a short, 45-day session. The session got off to a rocky start after a winter storm and power outage disrupted the water supply system in Richmond and the surrounding area, delaying the start to the session. In the beginning of the session there were nearly 2,000 bills introduced. Of those, roughly 900 are headed to the desk of Gov. Glenn Youngkin. He now has until March 24 to sign, amend or veto each of these bills. After he has done that, the general assembly will return to Richmond on April 2 to vote on the governor’s actions. The bills that the governor and both chambers agree to then become law on July 1. GEARY’S BILLS: More than 150 bills sponsored by Republicans were never given a hearing at all, including 5 of Geary’s bills – Banning Sanctuary Cities, Parent’s Bill Rights, School Safety, etc. Dems did however hear and pass a bunch of absurd bills that the Governor already vetoed last year. JAMES MONROE’S HOME: Geary is working very hard on getting James Monroe’s home, “Oak Hill”, which is in his district in Loudoun, to be a State Park. This would be huge for the Commonwealth and Nova specifically. Might be a good question to ask “Did the Democrats fail on getting this in the budget?” CBS: A plan to make James Monroe's Virginia estate a state park was rejected. Now, it's in limbo. Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow the Show Podcasts on Apple podcasts, Audible and Spotify. Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @Jgunlock, @patricepinkfile, and @heatherhunterdc. Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Show Website: https://www.wmal.com/oconnor-company/ How to listen live weekdays from 5 to 9 AM: https://www.wmal.com/listenlive/ Episode: Monday, March 24, 2025 / 8 AM Hour See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is masculine energy the topic on everyone's mind? Andrew Tate's relentless chatter about manhood has sparked controversy, while even figures like Mark Zuckerberg are calling for more masculinity in the business world. But what does true masculinity really look like? Today's guest, Nick Freitas—husband, father, podcaster, Green Beret combat veteran, and member of the Virginia House of Delegates—offers a grounded, principled perspective. He shares how men can embrace authentic masculinity by becoming dependable providers, rejecting womanizing, and committing fully to their families. Nick also explains where influencers like Tate go wrong and lays out a better roadmap for young men to follow. Plus, we dive into a surprising pro-life vote in Virginia and its significance for the broader movement. Tune in for this must-hear conversation!   Check out Nick's channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Nickjfreitas/ Join our Locals community: https://lilarose.locals.com/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LilaRose865A big thank to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/Check out our sponsors!-Good Ranchers: https://go.goodranchers.com/lila Purchase your American Meat Delivered subscription today and get a free add-on of beef, chicken, bacon, or salmon! Use code LILA for $25 off!  -Seven Weeks Coffee: https://www.sevenweekscoffee.com Buy your pro-life coffee with code LILA and get up to 25% off!-Crowd Health: https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/ The new alternative to health insurance - sign up and use the code "LILA" for a special deal of $99 for your first 3 months!

In this episode, we welcome Nick Freitas to the show. He is a Youtuber, social media influencer, Republican member of the Virginia House of Delegates, and a Retired Green Beret. His YouTube channel has over a million subscribers, and he hosts the “Making the Argument” podcast. In this interview, we discuss where the idea of the coffee mug videos came from, why he joined the US Military and whether or not he would do so again given the current climate, what Americans can and should expect during the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, what he thinks the Republicans can realistically get done during the first two years of Trump's term, how the porous southern border has caused a legitimate terrorist threat in the interior of the country, why he thinks Christianity and the Church have not done a good job raising up men, where true masculinity comes from, how to model appropriate manhood to our sons and daughters, and much more. Let's get into it…  Episode notes and links HERE. Donate to support our mission of equipping men to push back darkness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices