News to ME with Ken Altshuler: Recent Episodes
Ken Altshuler
Ken Altshuler, a lawyer and news junkie from Maine, discusses news both local and worldwide, politics, personal, and occasionally pop culture.
It’s been four weeks since the election and sufficient time for our reflection. Also some turkey talk and Michigan vs. Ohio State (and, yes, I refuse to say THE Ohio State - I am not a supporter of unfounded arrogance). Enjoy and subscribe. It’s free!
Election 2024: It is the day after the day after and Mike and I reflect on the aftermath of election 2024. No gloating, no tears. Lots of discussion and debate and morning after quarterbacking.
Seven days before the election. Don’t you want to hear our current analysis of the lay of the election land? Of course you do! Enjoy.
The great Veep debate. Who won and does it matter? Other endorsements in the first district and senate race. Is anyone out there really undecided? Why don’t we vote today. And Pete Rose is gone. Is he forgotten?
Hard to be a more earth shattering debate than the Biden - Trump debate when Biden was the candidate for president. Who won this round? And does it matter. Also, some discussion about the Patriots, Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, and Michigan’s anticipated difficult year.
So now the debate about whether Tim Walz was a good Veep candidate or not. Don't be shocked, but we don't agree! Also a discussion about the olympics and why Steve Kerr seems to hate Jayson Tatum. We even throw a discussion of the Barbie movie into the podcast!
Once again, a week goes by and nothing happens. NOT! So it is all Biden and Harris on the NewstoMe Podcast: Ken & Mike Redux. Subscribe and enjoy!
Will he or won’t he? Will it be Trump vs. Biden? Trump vs. Harris? Or Trump vs. Player to be named later. And has has the assassination attempt changed Trump or the election landscape? Hear our take on the latest developments.
The debate. The press conference. The convention. All Joe Biden (with some Kamala Harris and Donald Trump thrown in for good measure). Will he or won't he. Hear our take on the state of the presidential race.
After an extremely long and inexcusable delay, the latest segment of the Ken & Mike Redux podcast has dropped. Of course, we began discussing the BIG debate tonight between two very old angry white men, and whether or not Angus King should have to debate anyone. We also chatted about the latest Supreme Court decision on social media platforms (Murthy v. Missouri) and the Karen Read trial in MA (alleged death of a boyfriend by Ms. Read hitting him with her car). And where else would you hear a discussion about Judge Judy and the Celtics in the same podcast? Please subscribe and enjoy.
Lock him up? Are we talking about Trump or Biden? Or both? Town in Connecticut declines to fly the Thin Blue Line flag. Right or wrong? Caitlin Clark blindsided. Racial? Sending a message to a rookie? And a wrap with Mr. Sports Guru (that would be Mike) with his fearless prediction of the Celtics - Mavericks match up.
Well we talked a lot about Donald Trump. His trial, Robert DeNiro being a surrogate for Joe Biden, Dennis Quaid saying he supports Donald Trump. Ken still thinks Donald Trump is the most dangerous president in the history of the United States. Mike thinks Ken is as crazy as Robert DeNiro. You be the judge. We also talked about the two challengers to Chellie Pingree (insert yawn here), and if the “Appeal to Heaven” flag, very similar to the 1901 Maine flag, would derail efforts to replace the Dirigo flag. Finally, a tribute to Bill Walton and a remembrance of Grayson Murray, recognizing that one never knows what demons haunt the lives of those around us.
More Trump stuff. Accuses Biden of authorizing a hit when searching Mar-a-Lago. Will the jury end up deadlocked? Student loan forgiveness. Mike wants his kids to get their loan payments reimbursed to them. Someone start a Go Fund Me. And Ken does his annual rant about only needing one day for veterans: Choose between Veterans Day and Memorial
Will he or won't he be found guilty? Biden challenges Trump to a duel. A verbal one, at least. Good idea or bad idea? Harrison Butker tells women how much happier they will be barefoot and pregnant. And Caitlin Clark had a bad night. But she will be just fine. Let's not over react (or be happy for a bad night because of race issues).
We start with campus protests (is it he same as the Vietnam era of protests?), talk a bit about Biden (Mike says he should be more vocal about Israel; Ken says quit picking on Biden), agree that Kristi Noem shot herself in the foot when she reported, with some pride, shooting her fourteen month old dog for being bad. Bad dog. Stupid dog owner. Enjoy!
Israel vs. Palestine protests on college campuses. When did college students get so invested in Palestine? And anti-Israel. Do these protests help either Biden or Trump? Caitlin Clark gets $28 million from Nike. Good for her! And Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Cher? Lovely voice. Great entertainer. But what the hell is Rock and Roll?
We recap stories told to us by F. Lee Bailey, with particular emphasis on his belief that OJ was innocent. We also talk about Dennis Deschaine asking for a new trial in Maine, new Maine legislation as adjournment looms, and losing a great one in Dickey Betts.
We cover a range of topics including the NAIA banning transgender men to women from women sports, the No Label party no longer having a party, jail time for parents of school shooters, March Madness, Tiger Woods, and, of course, THE Eclipse!
Ken and Mike discuss a wide range of topics, including Susan Collins not supporting Donald Trump, Caitlin Clark precipitating a race debate, RFK, Jr., still crazy, and isn't it about time Maine revitalizes the original state flag?
Okay we went a tad overboard on our Biden / Trump discussion, which caused us to exceed our twenty minute target and go thrity minutes. Sorry! We'll try to be more time conscious next time! But we did get to new NFL rules and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame after a "spirited" discussion about Biden and Trump. Enjoy. And please subscribe to this podcast and our companion YouTube channel "NewstoME with Ken and Mike." It's free! And worth every penny!
Okay we went a tad overboard on our Biden / Trump discussion, which caused us to exceed our twenty minute target and go thrity minutes. Sorry! We'll try to be more time conscious next time! But we did get to new NFL rules and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame after a "spirited" discussion about Biden and Trump. Enjoy. And please subscribe to this podcast and our companion YouTube channel "NewstoME with Ken and Mike." It's free! And worth every penny!
Those of you who yearn for the "old days" will rejoice in the reunion of Ken and Mike from the WGAN Morning News of old. This is just a reminder of our interactions, and next week we will begin anew our partnership in the new News to ME with Ken and Mike. And that's a lot of new!
Let's catch up on Donald Trump's legal woes, as well as some other current issues. Caitlin Clark became the leading scorer in women's basketball history, soon to surpass Pete Maravich. Also the five best and five worst presidents of all time. Happy President's Day!
It wouldn't have mattered if Nikki Haley had won NH. Donald Trump will be the nominee of the Republican party. But, hopefully, she can continue to be a thorn in his side (and it is good to know she has abandoned her quest to be the vice presidential nominee). Also, eight African Americans who made life easier with their inventions (in anticipation of Black History month).
The Iowa caucus is tomorrow. Ho hum. Next up New Hampshire. May be a little closer. But fantasize all you want we are still heading to two old white men having a rematch. And neither of them are the loser. We are.
Colorado and Maine have attempted to disqualify Donald Trump from the ballot for president. Let's chat about the 14th Amendment: What it says, means, can do, and who can do it. And the six individuals who have been disqualified under the 14th Amendment.
Where does freedom of speech end? Why are we giving George Santos one penny? Why do we pretend there will be any new restrictive gun laws? And kudos to Time Magazine for selecting Taylor Swift as Person of the Year.
My take on the expulsion of George Santos, the status of the Israeli / Hamas conflict, and where we stand with the republican primary. My Top Five is the other five representatives expelled from the House in the history of the US.
Eighteen people dead, thirteen wounded, in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, just a few miles from my home. And still people are saying it is not about guns, it is about mental health. Well it is about people with mental illnesses owning guns, but if you can't identify and isolate everyone with a mental illness can we at least make it harder to get a lethal weapon?
My annual description of our utter destruction of the Native American culture in the US. I do NOT support Hamas, or ISIS, or the Taliban, but we need to understand how others view us as the terrorists. The atrocities we inflicted on Native Americans in the US are IDENTICAL to what we describe as the barbaric practices of Hamas. From massacring women and children to Andrew Jackson taking a Native American child home to his wife to raise, let's be careful to not suggest we are more moral or ethical than those people we call terrorists.
Kudos to Speaker McCarthy for standing up to the radical right. It is about time we have some adults in the room. Senator Menendez time for you to do the right thing and resign. And, yes, I love Taylor Swift, but enough of Traylor for a while. And the KC Chiefs (misappropriation of the indigenous people whom we decimated).
So if Joe will not leave the ticket, should we be focusing on Kamala Harris leaving the ticket for "the good of the party." Would Biden enforce that action? Would Harris leave? What if, what if, and more what if. Also, four incidents in our history when a vice president was dumped from the ticket after a previous tenure as vice president.
I saw it again and I paid better attention and understood it better and have additional comments to make about it. Also the 14th Amendment and what would a podcast be with a mention of Trump and Biden?
To be fair, Donald Trump is just being Donald Trump. But this one man could have changed the course of history and ended all chances of Donald Trump being elected for a second term. Oh, yeah, there was also a republican debate.
Donald will not show up. Probably. But that won't stop the republican debaters (except for maybe Chris Christie if he signs the pledge to support the republican nominee) from carefully avoiding any criticism of the already crowned party nominee. Is it worth watching? And five historic lines from past presidential (and vice presidential) debates.
Third series of indictments. Now we're getting serious. 4th on the horizon. What does all of the mean (if anything?). More money for Trump, but, perhaps, less republicans to the polls and fewer independents vote for him? And a repeat of hoodlum (criminal) presidents and presidential candidates.
My recap (and analysis) of the Barbie movie. Conservatives calm down. Barbie will not make your daughters gay. But make no mistake about it - it IS political. And accurate.
Forget Supreme Court nominations for a minute. Forget "it's the economy stupid." Think about where we will be in 2024 on the international front if Donald Trump is elected president. What do you do with a base that Donald Trump has convinced to view Putin as a "good guy?" Goodbye NATO. Goodbye international collaboration. Goodbye world economy. Can we convince the public to vote with their heads instead of their fear?
Last week was a terrible week for Americans who believe in equality and freedom for all. And a reminder that the presidential election is not about who leads America, but who appoints the justices of the Supreme Court.
Happy Father's Day and Juneteenth. I little discussion about both and about the absurd notion of republican candidates for president pledging to pardon Trump. Also, five great African Americans who contributed to the advancement of their race and human beings everywhere.
It is a strong case against Donald Trump. It is a federal, versus state, indictment. There is ironclad evidence that Donald Trump broke the law and knew he was breaking the law. But does it matter? For my Top Five I go through the republicans currently vying for the republican nomination.
So a variety of topics, but I needed to use Gay Pride Month to reiterate my concern about the hate targeting of transgenders by state legislatures. Also, six prominent gay activists who have contributed to the advancement and safety of the LGBTQ community.
Everyone just relax and enjoy the holiday weekend. The debt ceiling is not going to be an issue. Even the republicans aren't stupid enough to shut down the government and hope the dems are blamed. Also, the fiasco known as the DeSantis presidential campaign rollout, my annual rant about two holidays for veterans, and the lame excuse republicans now use to explain gun violence.
As Title 42 expires we look to the Cato Institute to summarize an excellent list of reasons why our immigration system is broken. Also a brief summary of how many failures we have had just since 2006 to effectively address the broken immigration system.
Interesting week. The man who lost the Maine gubernatorial race in 2010 by 10,000 votes was sentenced to nine months for child pornography. I truly thought I was immune to be shocked. Not so. Also Charles III will be allowed to rip off Great Britain by making tons of money and not doing anything worthwhile for the country. And, of course, a weekly tirade about guns.
Are we really going to have a Biden - Trump rematch in 2024? And why do we let the extremes dictate who our nominee will be? I also regale you on all of the presidential rematches in US history.
I often argue that both conservatives and liberals are inconsistent when it comes to abortion and the death penalty. But how about mandatory vaccines and gun ownership? Are conservatives consistent? Nay I say, I say nay. And the top five facts you should know about abortion (one hint: outlawing it will not make it go away).
No I am not thrilled by the charges brought against Donald Trump in NY, but there are other more serious charges on the horizon and, at some point, Mr. Trump will hopefully meet his Waterloo. Also did you know there was one sitting president who actually was arrested?
Even Maine has now started to catch the fear factor: Make laws against transgenders before they overtake our world. This has been, and is, a solution without a problem. We have to stop the insanity! Also, the Top Five of the week? Yep, you guessed it. Five famous transgenders!
It's been a while since we were riveted to our television sets to see a murder trial (remember OJ?). The Alex Murdough is a case history in old south county control of wealth white families and the bottomless black pit a human being can fall into when nothing matters outside his own survival. Also, Top Five of the week: Five other heinous murders in the history of the US.
Joe Biden needs to tell America that the defense of Ukraine is imperative for a number of reasons. All benefiting the future of, that's right, US! Also, the Top Five for the week: Five engagements we should have kept out of.
Yeah, another gun shooting. Been there, done that. No one is listening to me so tired of repeating myself. So let's talk about Nikki Haley and balloons instead. Or President's / Presidents' / Presidents Day. Which is actually Washington's Birthday. Day.
Thank you Cruella Deville (that would be Majorie Taylor "the Liar" Greene) for heckling Joe Biden because his ability to fend off your attacks and turn around the Medicare and Social Security funding issue on your fellow republicans made him look cognizant, alert, informative, and presidential. I also touch on the balloons (also known as the aliens). And five memorable State of the Union Speeches in US History.
Okay, so maybe it is a spy balloon. But another opportunity for republicans to attack Biden? Did we do this when republicans were president? Maybe. Can we ever reach a point at which not everything becomes fodder for propaganda?
Tyre Nichols dies at the hands of five police officers in Memphis. But nothing will change. Unbridled authority will always have victims. And speaking of victims, poor George Santos. Why is everyone always picking on him?!?
Really? What Joe Biden is alleged to have done with classified documents absolves Donald Trump of his behavior? Apples and oranges, my friend. Apples and oranges. And hear about five presidents who actually did violate the Constitution.
Remember when you were just a new parent and you learned that if you gave in to your child's whining they would learn that they can get what they want if they just whine enough? Hello, Kevin? Are you paying attention. This is how blackmail works and it is also the best evidence that the republicans have reverted back to their stupid days of allowing the tea party to split the party. Thank you!!!
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski gave a stirring speech to Congress last week. My brief perspective (and some severe criticism of two classless politicians who epitomizes what why the reputation of Congress is at a new low. Also, the worst five snowstorms in American history (as a nod to the brave folk in Buffalo this weekend.
The January 6 committee is preparing to issue its final report. Inevitably it will recommend criminal charges be brought against Donald Trump. Well, duh. Does it matter? I think it does. Well the DOJ prosecute. I don't think it will. But it should. Also, the likely five investigations we should expect from the House republicans in 2023.
Kyrsten Sinema has left the democratic party and has become independent. Does anyone really believe this is simply a move based upon principle? Of course not. And it won't change one thing in the senate. Also, my Top Five this week is six politicians who change their party affiliation. Enjoy!
Interesting week coming up in Georgia, but the real story of December will be the Kevin McCarthy power struggle to be elected Speaker of the House. Mr. McCarthy: Be careful of what you wish for!
Allow me a few minutes to recap the wonderful victory of my alma mater over our most hated rival, Ohio State.
Thank you Donald for running again. Split that republican party. Make sure that a potentially weak dem candidate can sneak in with the republicans being split or a third party candidacy. Sometimes both parties just don't learn their lessons.
Well i was pretty close to perfect in my predictions. I predicted the House to be a tad more red than it wil end up being, but no red wave as a predicted. And, also as I predicted, it will come down to Georgia as to which party controls the senate. But I am more optimistic of a Warnock victory than I was last week. Here is my recap.
Damn be the polls. No one answers them honestly any more. If at all. However, more republicans don't answer them than dems. Red wave? Red ripple? The republicans take the House, but you will have to listen to learn by how many seats. And the Senate? Comes down to one election. And you know what state that is, don't you?
It seems like it was just yesterday when the voices of women were raised in angry unison decrying the elimination of one of their fundamental rights to decide what happens to their bodies. Is the price of gas really that much more important than the right for you to choose? For you to not have an angry old while man dictate what you can and can't do with your body? White suburban women gave us Donald Trump. Are they about to give us a republican Congress?
There is absolutely no justification for anyone to vote for someone like Herschel Walker: Incompetent, narcissistic, and a pathological liar. Yet there he is, on the precipice of being elected to the US Senate. It is your moral obligation to not vote for him. Don't vote at all if you can't stand his opponent, but a vote for Walker is a vote for mediocrity at best, immorality at worst.
It's time for my annual rant about our extermination of the indigenous people whom we found when we came to the shores of the United States and quickly destroyed their lives, their culture, and their way of life.
So why would you vote for him? And don't say "because even though I hate the man I like his policies. Well Adolph Hitler did some great things for Germany too. But i doubt you would vote him today for Chancellor, now would you. It is time for YOU who supported or support him to stand up and say NO!
The monarchy is worth 88 billion dollars. Why does Great Britain revere them? And why do we care about the monarchy from which we declared independence? Also, the prognosis remains good for democrats come November. Not good that they will stave off a loss of the House, but not as bad as it could have and should have been. Also, the 11th Circuit gives Trump lawyers until Tuesday to rebut the DOJ's request to reverse the stay on their investigation. Good for them. Let's see if there are some judges with IQs above 100.
Yes every year i say the same thing: The attack on 9/11 was horrific and the loss of family and friends was tragic. But why don't we treat the families of victims of all terrorists attack the same? Can you say Oklahoma City bombing? Also, the pros and cons of a monarchy. There is no pros. Time to get rid of them and stop this silly love affair with the county we fought a revolutionary war against!
Why the big hullabaloo about Joe Biden's speech. I say it's about time, it had to be said, and good job saying it. And now Trump got his special master. Delay, delay, delay. But it won't change the eventual outcome or fate of Donald Trump. His Waterloo is coming. Wow, i said "loo" twice in the same paragraph!
I am not in favor of the student loan forgiveness for a lot of reasons. I understand the pros and cons even though i don't agree with the pros. But the one question I can't get answered: Why now? You are on a roll Mr. President. November is coming up. You couldn't put this off until December? Also the top five worst decisions made by past presidents.
Busy two weeks in politics. Courageous Liz Cheney lost to a Trump outliar (that is a misspelling on purpose - get it). I would love to see her run for president. Donald Trump gets raided. Yes it may have some blowback, but it had to be done. And some of the amazing foods served at the Iowa State Fair.
Joe Biden has put together a string of significant successes on the foreign, domestic, and financial front. Now it is time for dems to take a page from Donald Trump. Everything that passes is the best, the greatest ever, something that no other president has ever done in the history of the universe. Let's do it!
Is the Schumer / Manchin deal a DONE deal? We haven't heard from Krysten Sinema yet, but I don't think it is likely that she would be the sole torpedo to the latest version of BBB. But we shall see. Also, we lost two great ones - Bill Russell and Nichelle Nichols.
Thursday's January 6 committee hearing was more of the same: Donald Trump played the fiddle while Rome burned. But is the committee simply preaching to the converted? Also, with the summer in full swing, what were the four worst heat waves of all time?
Yes there is one more hearing scheduled, but I thought i would do a wrap up because i think anything else will just be piling on what we already know. Also, five great festivals you should put on your bucket list! Why festivals? Because I went to the famous Yarmouth Clam Festival this year after it was cancelled for three years.
Reverberations throughout the US, if not the world. Will it change the November election? Have women become (once again) second class citizens in our country? Also, a few words about the gun legislation and the January 6 committee. Finally, the top five Super Court justices of all time.
The House January 6 committee investigating the insurrection of 2021 went live during prime time on Thursday. Here are my thoughts about it, plus a few comments about gun law legislation.
It was almost ten years ago that I said if the slaughter of children at Sandy Hook could not precipitate change in our gun laws nothing ever will. Now we have another slaughter of children. Can't we stop this insanity? Can't we have some change? When is enough enough?
Going to Greece can teach you a lot about human nature and the warlike characteristics of the human male. It may be small comfort to know we have always been like this. It is likely we will continue to be until we destroy ourselves.
Why this draft opinion is stunning, illogical, devastating, but with one silver lining all rolled into one. Why presidential elections are all about the Supreme Court, where are you now Susan Collins?, goodbye rights to privacy (and NOT just with abortion), and why we need to stop viewing the Constitution as the gospel (yes, my reference to the Bible is not a coincident) and see it as a breathing, evolving document.
Joe BIden has handled the Ukrainian war situation, frankly, perfectly. But his approval ratings are still dismal. Why? Besides the American voting public being emotional rather than logical.
This may be viewed as somewhat of an attack on Christianity, but I think it is worth taking a moment, on Easter Sunday, to ask yourself "What Would Jesus Do?" And to really cap off this holiday Sunday, how about the ten worst atrocities committed in the name of God.
Title 42 is set to expire on May 23. And if you apply the law correctly, it should. But this is 2022 and midterm elections are seven months away. So being technically correct is stupid and dangerous. Also, the Top Six for the week is six things you may not know about Title 42.
This is the last time I want to talk or hear about Will Smith and Chris Rock. But there's so much to talk about, I had to do one podcast on it. Also, some of the other interesting moments in Oscar history.
Blame him (incorrectly, but if you want) for high gas prices or high inflation), but what has he done wrong in this handling of the Ukrainian war, and what exactly do you want him to do that he hasn't done? And since people are criticizing him for saying "...this man can't remain in power," which is true, I close with some of the more famous statements from past presidents.
Since last week was a heavy episode and I am still testing positive for COVID, let's chat about Daylight Savings Time instead of the war in Ukraine, shall we? Also, the ten most famous Irish of all time.
I was struck by what a unique day March 7, 2022 was. COVID, Ukraine, Iowa school shooting, violent weather, and the state of Florida not only deciding that parents should be told NOT to vaccinate their children, but let's also make sure they "don't say gay." Are we back in the 1950's? This is not backlash; this is insanity. Also, as a protest, I detail the most significant moments in the ADVANCEMENT of LGTBQ legal rights.
Friday will mark the official day that the WHO declared COVID-19 an epidemic. Fertile ground for thinking "what if" and how did this become so politicized? Also, a few words about Ukraine and the worst outbreaks in US history.
I go away for one week and Vladimir Putin invades Ukraine. Which Donald Trump describes as brilliant. I am not sure who is emotionally disturbed between these two supposedly world leaders. Also, a few words about Judge Jackson and the Top Five Russian Leaders of all time.
Let's make one smart foreign policy decision and stay out of Ukraine. Let Putin sable rattle all he wants. Let's learn how to be non interventionists! Also, the top five Super Bowls of all time (yes, sorry, being a home boy Patriots fan, so don't bother listening if you hate the Pats).
Did Mike Pence open the door for other republicans to begin to distance themselves from Donald Trump? Or was it just a token gesture. Also, a recitation of the worse vice presidents in the history of the US.
Donald Trump said he would consider pardoning the participants in the January 6 resurrection. Is that enough for Republicans and Independents to stand up and be counted? A little Supreme Court talk. And, finally, January 28, 1986. The Challenger disaster.
What would be a more brilliant move than for Joe Biden to nominate Kamala Harris to the Supreme Court. It solves a number of problems. 2024. Identity crisis in the White House. Complete reset of his presidency. Mr. President, listen to me. Be bold. Make history. Nominate Kamala Harris to the Supreme Court.
Why are people so surprised when Joe Biden acts like Joe Biden? Has he made some missteps? Sure. But is there any fairness to his current low approval rating? No. America is fickle. But Americans are also notoriously unfair and inconsistent.
Why can't the dems learn the lesson of the Tea Party and unite if for no other reason to limit the inevitable damage I am expecting in 2022? It's time for Joe Manchin and Krysten Sinema to be called out by Biden and act as united members of a united party. My Top Five of the day is the record coldest days in the history of the United States.
The Big Lie. What is so disturbing about it is that by perpetuating The Big Lie republicans are eroding the foundation of our democracy. My call for responsibility! Also, the three times in the history of the US the Capitol was attacked.
New year, prediction time. Two quickies on COVID and the election of November 2022. But then we talk about what really matters: The anniversary of January 6, 2022. I also update the podcasts I have added to my library for 2022.
What were the top stories of 2021? I give you my opinion of the top story of each month and then what I consider to be the top story of 2021. Interestingly enough, the top story of the year is NOT a top story of any one month. Go figure.
Jack updates us on his favorite podcasts, all of which I plan to try. And then I will tell you what I think of them in a week or two. Next week a recap of the year that mercifully will end shortly!
What? We're still talking about COVID? Yes, and we will likely be doing so for a long time. But also some talk about inflation, Build Back Better, and Chris Cuomo's firing.
Another variant. Is that enough to get you vaccinated? No more Mr. Nice Guy. Go out and get vaccinated NOW if you haven't done so already. And all eyes are on the Supreme Court this week and one Mr. Brett Kavanaugh. And ten illnesses that have been eradicated by vaccinations.
Why do we build the wall, my children, my children. Written ten years before Donald Trump, but he could have been the star of Hadestown. Also, some commentary on the Rittenhouse verdict and the JFK assassination.
What is the real difference between the success of the Trump presidency and the stagnation of the Biden presidency? As the cowardly lion from the Wizard of Oz would say, "courage." Well, maybe not, but confidence has a lot to do with it. Also, the average Gallup presidential approval ratings of all presidents since World War II.
We know that, historically, the party of the President loses seats in the midterm elections. The issue is how many. Can we predict now how bad it will be next year? I think we can. Also, I will recap the six worse midterm losses in the House of Representatives.
No I am not gone but not forgotten. It has been a long two weeks with computer and travel problems, but a quick discussion about the VA and NJ elections tomorrow and I will be back in the saddle this upcoming weekend.
My good friend Jack Manheimer - who maybe doesn't know everything about podcasts, but knows more than I do - joins me for a podcast about podcasts. A day late, but not a dollar short.
Okay, before you say I am crazy, I mean it. Since when do we tell businesses that they can't do something because it may hurt someone. We have gun manufacturers. We have chemical manufacturers. We have lots of businesses that create things that hurt people. Is Facebook really different from them? Also, for Indigenous People Day, the retelling of the Trail of Tears.
I have been saying that, yes, things are bad, but it has been this bad in Congress before. But I give up. I agree with you now. Things are horrible and I do not see light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks for ruining my Sunday. But, on a brighter note, in honor of the Tony awards, the Top FIve plays of all time, and my five favorites as well!
Did it take a democratic victory in California to finally put to rest the assumption that any time a republican loses and election is is a result of fraud? Also, a short discussion about the $3.5 trillion dollar package proposal and is it you civil duty to get vaccinated? Finally, the top five lies in history.
2,993 died, 8,900 injured. And, perhaps worse, for twenty years it has led us down the spiral staircase of distrust, hatred, and division. A moment that did and should have united us against a common evil evolved into the greatest division since the Civil War.
It is unclear what is more alarming: The Texas Anti-abortion law or the Supreme Court not staying its implication. Also, the hypocrisy of the Libertarian pro lifers. Plus, the top popular holidays in the world (on this Labor Day weekend).
I did suggest that we wait until August 31 to see IF Afghanistan was going to be the disaster every republican said it was going to be. Maybe not. Also, in memory of Charlie Watts, my Top Five Rolling Stones songs of all time and a review of the new movie about Aretha Franklin, Respect.
Okay let's not let Donald Trump skate on this either. His plan was worse and the 5,000 Taliban he let out of jail led the charge into Kabul. Nonetheless, "the buck stops here" and Joe Biden created a fiasco that did not have to happen. Also, a list of America's longest wars.
We have had mandates for centuries. Why the big uproar now? Let's look at the history of disease, vaccinations, and mandates before we get overwrought with concerns about losing our independence.
It is a mystery why anyone would be criticizing Simone Biles for withdrawing from competition. Let's take a look at what she did and why. Also, the five greatest olympians of all time.
Pelosi picks two republicans to serve on the committee. I would have picked more, but perhaps she can't find more than two. But i think her strategy is sound, although I would have done what McCarthy did (even though he is a liar and a hypocrite). Also, my top five summer olympic sports.
No coincidence that those who believe the Biden was not legally elected also believe they don't have to be vaccinated. They are called republicans. Okay, not all of them. But too many of them. STOP THE BIG LIES! Also, the top five conspiracies in modern time. I believe in 1.5 of them!
I am all in for capitalism and space flight, but does it feel a tad unseemly to have three white male billionaires competing to be the first in space while there is significant poverty here at home? Also, a few words about Dr. Fauci and the "Big Lie." And the five most important moments in space exploration (I did not include Star Trek!).
No, Greg Abbott is clueless when it comes to border issues as well. But if the dems do not figure out a way to spin this issue in a positive direction, it is going to be a very bad 2022 and 2024. But, on the lighter side, some interesting facts about Texas!
Happy Father's Day to all. After going to my first movie in a year and a half last night, i couldn't help but pontificate about how our lives have changed in the last year. Also, Top Six Dads you should know about.
How does a boy from Oklahoma who was raised and schooled in sooner land take five or six history classes, including having to memorize the name and order of every governor of Oklahoma, yet not ever hear one word about the worst massacre in US history until the Watchman TV show? Speaking of hate, thank you for your racist comment Ms. Sheikh-Yousef. Time for you to resign. Also the top five loathsome pandemics of all time. Enjoy!
It's hard to call the republican senators who voted against a January 6 commission anything by cowards. Why they would continue to hitch their wagon with the greatest narcissist to ever be elected president remains a mystery to me. But there you have it. On this Memorial Day weekend. Plus, the lives America lost in in wars from the Civil to 9/11.
To say the lease, the Middle East is, er, complicated. Let's talk about where we are and how we got there. Also, a few words about the January 6 Commission. And to wrap up the podcast, my Top Five Jews of all time!
I am all in on not having to wear masks any more, but what has really changed to cause this change in CDC policy? Also, a few final comments about the purge of Liz Cheney. And my Top Five? The five best characters who wore masks, of course!
It is inconceivable that any political party would purge a man or woman of principle, who not only stands for what she believes in, but what she believes in is true. Yet when Liz Cheney says she doesn't support the "big lie" that the 2020 presidential election was fraudulent, instead of joining or applauding her, the republican party is about to abandon her.
So, yes, i was perturbed on my show with Mike Violette on Wednesday, because absent a truly insane person (i.e. Marjorie Taylor Greene) you should be able to find something you like or agree with in any person. Hear me rant. Also, my picks for the best five movies that won the Academy Award for Movie of the year.
Yes he was guilty. Yes we breath a sigh of relief with the guilty verdict. But was justice served? I don't always agree with AOC, but this time she was spot on. The verdict is not a substitute for a change in policy. And five other examples of police brutality in our recent past.
Okay conservatives let's not pretend that you would refrain from politicizing the Supreme Court. See Merrick Garland's nomination by Barack Obama. It won't happen, but a man can have a dream, yes? Get Joe Manchin to repeal the filibuster and we'll be on our way! Also, my Top Five (six) is the times in history the number of justices have changed.
Yes a person is innocent until proven guilty. But can you watch the video of George Floyd saying "I can't breath" and have any doubt that he was killed by a police officer leaning on his neck? Also, remembering four other black human beings killed by inappropriate and illegal police behavior.
Thank you for indulging me this weekend. it has been a long week. But bear with me and you will be rewarded with some things to look forward to in 2021.
How proud you must be in you are a Georgian. Love your peaches. Hate your politics. Way to go passing the 21st century version of Jim Crow laws. Good to know racism is not dead in the south. Also, five monumental moments in voting history.
Is it a crisis? If it isn't yet, it will be shortly. If the Biden administration does not respond to the immigration "situation" quickly and effectively, it could spell doom for the dems in the midterm elections. Also, my top five immigration songs of all time.
We liberals / democrats cannot have double standards. We cannot say "because Donald Trump did this we should look the other way when Andrew Cuomo does that." If we are going to stand on principle, what is wrong is wrong no matter who does it. Plus five sexual political scandals in recent US history.
It has been almost a year since i began my hibernation. I now have my first vaccine. Was the trade off between safety and the economy worth it? Also, a summary of where we are and where we are going. Thanks to Mathews Brothers of Belfast Maine for sponsoring the podcast!
The Equality Act passes the House of Representatives, but will need 60 votes in the Senate. Can we find enough Republicans to support the non discrimination of the LGBTQ community? And milestones in the LGBTQ fight for equality. Brought to you by Mathews Brothers of Belfast Maine.
So we all know that Ted Cruz stupidly took a weekend trip to Cancun. But my focus is more about the conservatives whining about it. And not what he did, but the media reaction to it. I also detail some facts about Texas you may not know about. Can Texas secede from the US? Listen and learn. And thanks to Mathews Brothers for sponsoring the NewstoME podcast!
The aftermath of the second failed impeachment trial of Donald Trump. Was it folly? Was it necessary? Is there any doubt of his guilt? Did it matter? Well it did to seven republican senators, whom I applaud for their courage.
Super Bowl Sunday and I am loudly rooting for the GOAT to win #10. Underdogs, but never bet against Tom Brady. And the republicans choose Representative Crazy (Greene) over Representative Principled (Cheney). Thank you republicans for not remembering the lessons of the Tea Party. And the Top Five Super Bowl games of all time (in my humble opinion).
Where are you republicans who condemned Donald Trump for the Capitol riot, and now continue to embrace him as the savior of the republican party? And, worse yet, you let a racist, antisemite spew her hatred and violence without any condemnation or protest. I say you are cowards, one and all. If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
Back home in Maine Capitol Police Chief Gavin is under fire for his personal Facebook postings. Should he be fired for his personal postings? And some memorable inauguration speeches and quotes.
You cowards who attacked the Capital last week, listen to what a true American Patriot said to ALL of the people of the word. Shame on all of you. This is America, you are not. And then give great African Americans (and a bonus one as well!). Thanks to Mathews Brothers of Belfast, Maine, for sponsoring my podcast!
Just when i thought that just maybe i wouldn't have to talk about Donald Trump ever again, we have a phone call to Georgia asking an official to find votes for him, a request of his Vice President to initiate a coup, and then, since nothing else has worked, how about inciting a riot? My comments, plus the five worst things Donald Trump did during his presidency (and trust me the list to choose from was VERY long!).
Despite my goal to be more positive in 2021 - and hopefully, after January 20, not to ever have to mention Donald Trump's name again - we have twelve republican senators making a mockery of the democratic process. Where are you conservatives, who claim to love America yet allow this to happen? Shame on you too! I do mention some things to look forward to in 2021. Brought to you by Mathews Brothers of Belfast, Maine!
My rambling predictions for 2021. Also, some of Nostradamus' predictions for what will happen in 2021.
Can you republicans and conservatives please stand up and stop this insanity? It's not funny any more. And it is up to you to stop it. Also, examples of martial law throughout US history.
The Electoral College meets (not really) and votes tomorrow, presumably for Joe Biden. Is it time to abolish the College? And the five strangest Electoral College elections in US history.
Lots of things to worry about when it comes to Donald Trump, but next on the horizon (assuming he doesn't corrupt the Electoral College) will be his presidential pardons. Plus a look at some of the more interesting pardons in presidential history.
Thanksgiving, COVID, and Donald Trump: Stop me if you have heard this one before. Yes we talk about what we have talked about for weeks now. But we also lost a great one - David Prowse, Darth Vader in action (not in voice). So I also give you my opinion of the best five Star Wars movies of all time.
Will he ever leave? Will his attack on democracy succeed? Will any courageous republican stand up and tell him to get the hell out of town? Those are questions we keep asking ourselves. And, oh yes, don't forget the election of 1876.
I update where we are with the Trump administration (and republicans) accepting the Biden victory. Also, my review of one of the best television mini-series I have ever watched.
Joe Biden is elected the 46th President of the United States. More significantly Kamala Harris becomes the first woman, black, and Veep of mixed race, with a white, jewish second gentleman. A true event to celebrate! Plus the five greatest Veeps of all time.
Two days until election day and I predict the winner of the presidential race, the Maine senate seat, and the top five most interesting elections in US history.
Was it the third or second presidential debate? No matter, I will give you my thoughts on it, as well as the latest Maine senatorial debate. Also the top five closest elections in US history.
A little over two weeks away. Too early to predict with certainty, but I talk about how it is looking from my perch in Freeport, Maine. Also, the top five senators of all time in U.S. history.
I recap my view on the vice presidential debate and the current status of the president's mental health. Also, my Top Five discussed the best and worst Veeps in US history.
My take on the first (if not last) presidential debate, the president testing positive for coronavirus, and the top five "October surprises" in modern day presidential politics.
The President once again attacks one of the bedrocks of our democracy - won't any republican call him on his behavior? And another killing of a black is validated by the lack of charges to those involved. The more things change the more they stay the same.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg dies; the loss of a great one and, at the same time, highlighting how critical the election of a president can be. Also, my top five Supreme Court justices of all time.
So much to talk about, so little time! The anniversary of 9/11, the Woodward book, and the first Maine Senatorial Debate. Also my Top Five Disastrous Events in US History.
We've had some bad AGs in the history of the US (see John Mitchell), but none have been worse than William Barr at understanding his obligation to the American people. And democracy. Also, the return of our Entertainment Editor, Chelsea Doyle, and the Top Five worst presidents BESIDES Donald Trump.
I recap the Republican National Convention and compare it to the Dems. I also tell you my Top Five Torch Songs of all time.
I recap the four days of the convention nominating Joe Biden as their candidate for President, as well as my top five Rock and Roll songs of all time.
Joe Biden has chose Kamala Harris as her running mate. Good or bad choice? For governor John Baldacci and I discuss the selection and the state of the election as we head into Labor Day. Also my top five albums of all time.
Yes I had hoped to never talk about coronavirus again, but circumstances warrant a revisit. Also an album review!
Governor Baldacci joins me to analyze the primary results. I also give you my view and in preparation for the nastiest race in the history of Maine (Collins v. Gideon), I mention four famous political ads since 1960.
Did it take the murder of George Floyd to end Native American mascots? If so, add this to the list of what good may come out of this tragedy. Also, with the passing of Carl Reiner, his top five favorite Dick van Dyke episodes.
Mike Violette of Legacy1160 WSKW joins me on this week's NewstoME Podcast; I also tell you my five top patriotic songs to welcome in July 4th!
Businessman Rob Baldacci joins me to discuss the impact of coronavirus on businesses in Maine and the hospitality industry in particular. Also my Top 5 movies of all time.
Governor John Baldacci joins me to discuss the current state of politics; and I discuss Aunt Jemima and our changing cultural mores. Chelsea Doyle with her entertainment update on her 36th birthday.
Col. Hunt discusses the killing of George Floyd, the issue of corruption in police departments, and what needs to be addressed with regard to these issues. Also, New Editor Amy Doyle and my Top Five Favorite Books.
I follow up last week's George Floyd discussion with more thoughts on the protests and potential solutions to the pandemic of racism we are currently facing. Also, an interview with former Congressman Bruce Poliquin, therapist Lynda Doyle, and Entertainment Editor Chelsey Doyle, who discusses entertainment developed by African Americans.
Governor John Baldacci joins me to discuss presidential and senatorial politics, among other things. Theme of the show is the police brutality in Minnesota. News Editor Amy Doyle joins me with her take as well. Top 5 this week is suggested science fiction / fantasy reads.
A shorter Memorial Day weekend podcast, with my only interview being Chelsea Doyle. However, this is NOT about coronavirus and, instead, I talk about the state of politics in this age of the pandemic. Starting next week back with interviews with John Baldacci, David Hunt, and Bruce Poliquin coming up!
As much as I would like to talk about anything but coronavirus, we can't see to develop a plan for reopening our society in the midst of this pandemic. So the ranting (or analysis) continues unabated. Also, therapist Lynda Doyle, Entertainment Editor Chelsea Doyle, and my Top Five of the week: Omissions from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The debate continues as to when to open, how much to open, and the balance between fear of the coronavirus resurgence and the restoration of life as we know it. Plus an interview with therapist Lynda Doyle and Entertainment Editor Chelsea Doyle talks about Westworld.
For my first NewstoME podcast I asked my long time talk radio show partner Mike Violette to let me interview him - twice! Plus Amy and Chelsey Doyle with the news story of the week and the entertainment tip of the week.
My overall take on the pandemic. I began as a naysayer, although I was eventually converted to a believer. But is the media responsible for creating more panic than necessary? Next week will be my first interview - with my ex radio partner Mike Violette (whom you can hear on Legacy 1160 WSKW).
To get past the story of my departure from WGAN, I am using my first "official" podcast to tell the story of my "release from radio bondage." Thanks again to Bob Maynes for his Walken intro, as well as his employer, Mathews Brothers Windows, for putting Bob on loan. My regular podcast will be on Fridays, but this is a "special edition."
We were honored to have Mathews Brothers Windows as a long time sponsor of the WGAN Morning News. Bob Maynes was kind enough to lend his Chris Walken impersonation to introduce the NewstoMe podcast. Many thanks Bob and Mathews Brothers!
Ken Altshuler, formerly of WGAN Morning News, starts a new podcast where he discusses politics, current events, the news, and a variety of other subjects.