American Viewpoints: Recent Episodes
Mike Ferguson
America's new news talk radio show that doesn't just inform, it empowers.
Often, important stories, viewpoints, and information don't make it into the headlines, so we're finding them and bringing them to you.
By the end of each week's show, you'll have new information you can use.
Recently, former US Senator Ben Sasse (R) was interviewed by Scott Pelley for "60 Minutes". It was a remarkable discussion with Sasse reflecting on questions of faith and mortality, the role of public office and service, and America's future. Sen. Sasse is near the end of his life due to terminal pancreatic cancer.This conversation is a reaction to one specific part of that interview. RedState.com Deputy Managing Editor Susie Moore, "Producer Jerome" (Jerome Bayuk) and I reacted to and reflected on Sasse's challenge for Americans to reconsider what we value in candidates and the leaders we choose.This discussion originnally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis.Watch the full "60 Minutes" interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcT9O5Sjmd0* Thumbnail image courtesy of CBS/"60 Minutes"
Mark Levin from the Council On Criminal Justice comments on Second Chance Month and efforts to change policy around the country. Specifically, advocated on both the Left and Right are promoting policies that, among other things, would allow some criminal convictions be expunged over time under specific circumstances.This interview originally aired in April of 2025.
RedState.com's Susie Moore discussed the case being built against Luigi Mangione, who is charged with murdering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson.This interview originally aired in April of 2025 and was taken from my NewsTalk STL morning show (of which Susie is now the cohost)
Paige Lambermont from the Competitive Enterprise Institute assesses the impact of the Biden-era Inflation Reduction Act. This interview origininally aired in April of 2025.
Dr Howard Wall, an economist at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, assesses the then announcement President Trump made regarding the then-forthcoming tariffs. Wall explains how the taxes (tariffs) work when used and what the impact is likely to be once they are implemented. The forecasts made by Dr. Wall in this discussion turned out to be accurate.
The discussion originally aired in March of 2025.Craig Rucker from CFACT (Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow) reacts to the sudden harassment of Tesla drivers and even property crimes enacted on the vehicles - because of Elon Musk's then-newfound partnership with President Trump. Rucker also comment on the change in direction the new EPA Administrator (Lee Zelden) is taking the agency.
This interview originally aired in March of 2025 and was taken from an episode of "Mike Ferguson In The Morning" on NewsTalk STL.Economist Stephen Moore assesses the President's threats to impose tariffs on trading partners.
This discussion first aired in March of 2025. Bill Pascoe from Tea Party Patriots responds to President Trump's Executive Order that requires proof of citizenship before being allowed to vote in US elections.
This interview originally aired in March of 2025. Dr Zachary Marschall from Campus Reform assesses the recent increase in violent protests, particularly antisemitic activism, that's allowed and even tacitly endorsed by left-leaning colleges and universities. He also discusses President Trump's approach of witholding federal funding to schools that allow violent protests. At the time this interview aired, Columbia University was in the news for allowing violent, antisemitic activism.
This episode originally aired in March of 2025.Brandon Arnold from the National Taxpayers Union assesses the priorities President Trump and Congress (especially Republicans) should have in budget negotiations.
This episode originally aired in March of 2025.Terris Todd from Project 21 responds to Don Lemon's discussion with Bill Maher regarding raceand politics. Lemon stated that black Americans cannot sincerely be supporters of the MAGA movement. Project 21 is the nation's largest network of black conservatives.
This episode originally aired in March of 2025, shortly after the Federal Reserve chose to leave interest rates unchanged despite pressure from President Trump to lower them.Greg McBride from Bankrate.com comments on how the decision affects us.
This episode originally aired in March of 2025Mike O'Neill from the Landmark Legal Foundation comments on one of the early rulings against President Trump's efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and illegal aliens already in the country with a mass deportation campaign.
The CATO Institute's Jennfer Schulp provides insight into the federal government's approach to regulating crypto currency. This follows a recent summit on crypto that was held at the White House.
Mark Mix from National Right To Work comments on the pro union Labor Secretary nominated by President Trump and the direction the Administration appears to be taking regrding labor law and worker freedom. Mix contrasts that with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's decision to eliminate the union presence in the TSA.
Host Mike Ferguson comments on the culture war over gender ideology and the apparent move back towards a more traditional view of the sexes. The monologue results from an incident at a Congressional subcommittee hearing. Congressman Keith Self referred to a male member of Congress, Tim "Sarah" McBride, who identifies as a woman as being a man. He was confronted by another member for not being more politically correct (woke?).
Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute, comments on the state of the economy, including the latest (February's numbers at the time) inflation report and the possibility of a trade war as a result of President Trump's tariff increase plans.
Christian Datoc, reporter for the Washington Examiner, updates us on the work the Department of Government Efficiency. This discussion follows questions about the accuracy of the claims DOGE is making regarding the level of savings the effort is securing.
Dr. Stanley Ridgley, author of DEI Exposed: How The Biggest Con Of The Century Almost Toppled High Education, discusses the debate over DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives and the backlash to them in higher education.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/DEI-Exposed-Biggest-Century-Education/dp/1963271734
Mark Schmitz, father of Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz who died in the terrorist attacks at the Kabul airport, discusses the news that the alleged mastermind of that attack has been caught. Schmitz also explains the mission of TheFreedom13.org, which works to provide support for veterans and their families.For more information: TheFreedom13.org
Lydia Newman from the American Institute For Economic Research answers questions about the effect President Trump's tariffs could have on the economy, on businesses, and consumers.
Bill Pascoe from Tea Party Patriots discusses the (then) breaking news that conservative radio host Dan Bongino was named Deputy Director of the FBI. The conversation also focuses on what reforms are needed to rebuild trust in federal law enforcement, especially by conservatives.
Professor James Shuls, who works with the Institute for Governance And Civics at Florida State University, discusses the "Phoenix Declaration". That's a statement written by several thought leaders, educators, researchers, and policy experts that focuses on what education in America should evolve toward.
Gun Owners Of America's Aiden Johnston discusses recent accusations that federal agents, specifically from the FBI, are pressuring people into signing away certain rights. Among those is the right to own and carry firearms. He explains the concerns and accusations and what reforms he and GOA want to see to protect Americans' rights.
Frank Lavin served in the Reagan Administration, on the National Security Council. In this conversation, compares the challenges faced then with the international ones faced now. He also discusses the lessons from the Ronal Reagan era that can (and should) be remembered now when it comes to diplomacy and leadership. For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Reagan-White-House-Presidential/dp/B0D5WLW8HH
Elaine Parker from the Job Creators Network discusses the results of a recent survey of small business owners and their opinion of the work the Department of Government Efficiency is doing. The conversation includes a focus on how that work at the federal level could trickle down and affect local businesses and economies.
Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute assesses President Trump's approach to using tariffs - "reciprocal tariffs" - and discusses the likely effect consumers will experience.
Host Mike Ferguson spotlights how sophisticated some fake news can be on social media and why we have to work harder to assess the information we are getting. The segment also assesses a dishonest statement President Trump recently made about Russia's war against Ukraine.
Washington Examiner reporter Christian Datoc comments on media rumors that President Trump (or some of those in his Adminnistration) and Elon Musk have developed a feud over the work of DOGE and some other federal policies. * thumbnail image from Wikicommons
Adam Thierer from the R Street Institute discusses the importance of winning the race for dominance in the field of artificiall intelligence. He compares the competition between US-based AI and China's Deepseek AI and why it matters around the globe.
Author Israel Ellis comments on the spreading antisemitism on US college campuses and the debate over our nation's role in the security of Israel, especially after the November 7th Islamic terrorist attacks. Those are among the topic in his new book.The Wake Up Call examines the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack when Hamas and Gaza terrorists breached Israel's borders, brutally murdering 1,200 people and kidnapping 250 others. This attack marked the worst security breach in Israel’s history. “10.7” ignited a global surge of antisemitism, spreading across university campuses and city streets worldwide.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Wake-Up-Call-Global-Antisemitism/dp/B0DQQ47DR3
Congressman Bob Onder (R) discusses President Trump's plans to send illegal aliens with violent criminal histories to Guantanamo Bay. The segment also includes the comedic song "Down In Guantanamo", which aired on NewsTalk STL in February, 2025.
The R Street Institute's Josiah Neely discusses the Trump Administration's executive orders related to energy. Neely explains what Trump's EOs are designed to do and the likely effect consumers will experience.
Joel Penton from Lifewise Academy explains they faith-based, Bible study material they offer to public school students. In part because of a Supreme Court decision, Lifewise is able to offer the faith-based material to students during school hours. In this discussion, he explains what is offered and how the program works.
James Broughel from the Competitive Enterprise Institute discusses his recent oped on how the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is actually set up to operate and how it can be maximally effective. The discussion examines the possibility of regulatory reform, not just finding wasteful spending.
Mark Huffman from ConsumerAffairs.com breaks down the ways tariffs affect trade and consumer prices.
Mark Meckler from Convention of States, discusses the flurry of executive actions pursued by President Trump during the first weeks of his term. Meckler hopes for an Article V Convention of States to consider additions to the US Constitution that would limmit government in specific ways, including a balanced budget amendment.
Americans For Limited Government's Rick Manning discusses his recent op-ed "The Battle For The Soul of America" and argues that the 2024 election and 2025 political changes are a crucial moment of American history. The conversation includes politics, policy, and culture.
Patrick Hedger from NetChoice discusses the $500-billion Stargate startup that President Trump announced days into his second term.
Anna Giaritelli, homeland security reporter for the Washington Examiner, discusses the legal conflict over President Trump's Executive Order that claims to end birthright citizenship in the US.
John Tillman from the American Culture Project comments on the beginning of Donald Trump's second term. Tillman specifically discusses the tone he hopes the President will set in 2025 and beyond.
Ilya Shapiro from the Manhattan Institute comments on the (then ongoing) case before the US Supreme Court focused on TikTok. Congress passed a law to force the sale of TikTok or be banned in the US. Shapiro discusses the legal, national security, and speech issues involved.
NetChoice's Amy Bos comments on the announcement that Meta (Facebook) says it will move towards political & cultural neutrality, as opposed to the bias the company's "fact checkers" had been demonstrating in the previous years. She also discusses the committment to free speech could mean to the country's political and social dialogue.
RedState.com writer Bob Hoge, who lives in southern California, provides an update on the efforts to keep people safe amid the then-ongoing wildfires and what's next for those affectred by the disasters.
Dr. Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (CFACT) comments on the then-ongoing wildfires in California. He addresses mutiple specific public policies, often enacted as an environmentalist priority, that likely contributed to the intensity of the fires and the extent of the damage.
Bill Flaig from the American Conservative Values ETF explains why the fund was created, why they factor in values when deciding where to invest, and why he thinks investors should consider worldview when investing.For more information: https://acvetfs.com/
Landmark Legal Foundation's Mike O'Neill previews the biggest cases before the US Supreme Court in 2025.
This discussion aired after the 2024 Presidential election but before Donald Trump took office. Job Creators Network President Alfredo Ortiz comments on the challenges facing the incoming Trump Administration and the new Republican majority. The discussion includes fighting inflation, avoiding a government spending, increasing the supply of lower-cost energy, and border security.This segment originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
US Rep Eric Burlison (R-MO) explains his bill to abolish the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (AFT). It's one of the many major reforms being proposed by Republicans in Congress. Rep Burlison also explains why he believes there is a unique opportunity for major, government-reducing reform right now while, at the same time, understanding the long-running establishment grip on the status quo.For more information: https://burlison.house.gov/
Former pro football player and author Ron Freeman discusses the conversations that encouraged him to write his new book, Rethinking Race, and why he believes media, educational, and cultural narratives are blocking more progress when it comes to race in America.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Rethinking-Race-Better-Than-Believe/dp/B0DN88MKFT
Andy Roth from the State Freedom Caucus assesses the makeup of the new Congress and the challenges the country is facing in 2025. He also discusses what he thinks should be the top priorities for Congress and President-Elect Trump in this year's legislative work.For more information: https://statefreedomcaucus.info/
After a recent online debate fired up on the Right, a new attention was brought to the HB-1 Visa program, which is used by American companies to recruit foreign workers to fill high-skill jobs, typically in technology. Some argue the program is good because it brings more skilled talent to the United States and others say it displaces or blocks opportunity for American workers and should be reformed or ended.In this segment, economist Dr. Howard Wall from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga's Center For Regional Economic Research evaluates the claims on both sides.For more information: https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/center-for-regional-economic-research
Matt Kibbe, host of TheBlaze TV's Kibbe On Liberty and from FreeThePeople.org, assesses the political and cultural divides in America and as we approach the beginning of a new presidential administration. It's not just Republican versus Democrat or pro- versus anti- Trump, there's a bigger question of authoritarianism versus liberty.* image courtesy of TheBlaze TV
Dave Lauer was enjoying a life many would be envious of: a successful career in education, a loving family, apparent good health that left him strong enough to play competitive baseball in his 50's. In late 2023, much changed with a sudden and surprising diagnosis of a brain tumor. While Dave's life has changed, he's taking notes of his reflections and leffons and offers them in his book, Glad To Be here.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Glad-Be-Here-Embracing-Diagnosis/dp/B0DQLF3WFS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3R3L4YER34J1R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4YqZw3-TfkaFrSuny0Xd5Z-y2Wr-TVqUTDYPARgkNsTGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.ag1Fc5TqQZIM5Hy7FPOGk8ACWkfvdW4fmSEXdKimyzE&dib_tag=se&keywords=glad+to+be+here+book+dave+lauer&qid=1736450936&sprefix=glad+to+be+here+book%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1
Dave Lauer was enjoying a life many would be envious of: a successful career in education, a loving family, apparent good health that left him strong enough to play competitive baseball in his 50's. In late 2023, much changed with a sudden and surprising diagnosis of a brain tumor. While Dave's life has changed, he's taking notes of his reflections and leffons and offers them in his book, Glad To Be here.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Glad-Be-Here-Embracing-Diagnosis/dp/B0DQLF3WFS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3R3L4YER34J1R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4YqZw3-TfkaFrSuny0Xd5Z-y2Wr-TVqUTDYPARgkNsTGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.ag1Fc5TqQZIM5Hy7FPOGk8ACWkfvdW4fmSEXdKimyzE&dib_tag=se&keywords=glad+to+be+here+book+dave+lauer&qid=1736450936&sprefix=glad+to+be+here+book%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1
Kemberly Washington, CPA, who writes for Bankrate.com offers end-of-the year advice on reducing your tax burden and also provides tips on planning for 2025.
American Prosperity's Phil Kerpen discusses the ongoing debate over funding the federal government and avoiding a "government shutdown" and how the disfunction of Congress remains at the core of the problem.
Keith Hanson from QUX Technologies, who is also a former law enforcement officer, comments on the assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson and what it's showing us about our own culture right now. He also offers advice on reducing your risk of being a victim of crime.
Recording on Bill of Rights Day, this conversation with David Bobb from the Bill of Rights Institute covers the importance - both historical and ongoing - of the first ten amendments to the US Constitution.
Trent England from Save Our States makes his case for keeping our Electoral College process of elections in the US. He distinguishes our system from a direct democracy/popular vote approach and answers critiques of the electoral college process.For more information: https://saveourstates.com/
Linda Hanson from Prosperity 101 argues that the recent trend of businesses embracing cultural activism and leftist thinking have found it hurt their business. Her organization argues that businesses should not just avoid taking sides in culture debates and politics but should actively educate employees on economic and policy issues that affect the economy and local businesses.For more information: https://prosperity101.com/
Dr Sal Giogiano from the Men's Health Network discusses a trend on some college/university campuses that teach against health and wellness, especially weight management. The activism in the academics equates promoting healthy lifestyles like exercise and weight loss to racism and sexism.
Caroline Melear from the R Street Institute looks at and beyond the current debate over the government's role in "making American healthy again", to borrow the phrase from Robert F Kennedy, Jr. Among her perspectives is that other federal programs, specifically subsidies for processed food manufacturing, create insentives to provide cheap, unhealthy food.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/end-farm-subsidies-for-ultra-processed-foods/
Dr. Marschall Runge from University of Michigan Medicine discusses recent study showing that artificial intelligence has a slightly higher accuracy rate in diagnosing medical conditions. An article about the study was published in the New York Post. Dr. Runge also discusses how he sees the role of AI in health care in the future.* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Danny Santana from CNET provides updates on common and new scams being used to steal property and compromise personal information. These techniques tend to capitalize on the busy holiday season but are also used throughout the rest of the year. * this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Phil Siegle from CAPTRS assesses the state of regulation on artificial intelligence, at least in the US. He explains the challenges the incoming Trump Administration faces and the risks of overregulating as the technology develops in the coming years.
OH Skinner from the Alliance for Consumers discusses their new short film, 2035. The movie is based on the premise that America's future includes the environmental and social regulations that today's Left wants. Skinner explains why they decided to use cinema to illustrate what they see as the dangers of increased government control of our lives.For more information: https://preparefor2035.com/
Herzog Foundation president Darrell Jones provides an assessment of how education could change in America if Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans follow through on their pledge to eliminate the Department of Education.
Fewer people get their news and commentary from traditional soucres (broadcast, newspaper, etc). We can debate if that's good or bad but have those "mainstream" media sources brought the competition - and losses - on themselves? Christine Rosen from the American Enterprise Institute argues that they have and continue to push the audience away through dishonesty, incompetence, and outright bias.For more information: https://www.aei.org/op-eds/the-suicide-of-the-mainstream-media/
Author Don Brown discusses his new book, Kangaroo Court: How Dirty Prosecutors and Sleazy Lawyers Destroy Political Opponents, Attack Free Speech, and Subvert the Constitution. Brown argues that frivolous civil and criminal legal actions are being increasingly used to affect politics and policy.For more information: https://donbrownbooks.com/
Teresa Murry from the Public Interest Research Group provides updates us on the rights consumers have when airlines bump passengers off flights or cancel flights.
CNET reporter Dasha Milden offers advice on protecting your physical property (like deliveries & gifts) and your financial information from thieves who use season-specific tactics during the holiday season.
Rick Manning from Americans For Limited Government makes his conservative case for Congressman Mike Johnson to keep his position as Speaker of the House of Represenatatives.* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
A graphic novel to address housing policies and central planning? Yes. It's named Build, Baby, Build: The Science And Ethics Of Housing Regulation. In this discussion with author and George Mason University economist Bryan Caplan, he makes an argument for more homes and less government. From the book's description: "Why are housing prices in America so unbelievably high, especially in the country's most desirable locations? The superficial answer is “supply and demand,” but the deep answer―the reason supply is so low―is a regulatory system that treats developers like criminals."For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Build-Baby-Science-Housing-Regulation/dp/1952223415
A recent United Nations conference (the 29th Conference of the Parties or COP 29) recently took place in Baku. CFACT's Craig Rucker was there and provided this first-hand account of what happened. Much of the activity focused on collecting funds from developed countries and funnelling it to poor countries - with plenty of strings attached.For more information: https://www.cfact.org/2024/11/11/beggers-banquet-opens-the-un-climate-summit/* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Host Mike Ferguson reflects on the election results with a focus on how the Left's extremism on several issues put Democrats outside of America's mainstream (or anywhere near it).
During the campaign, Donald Trump promised to do what many education reformers have been advocating for years: the elimination of the Department of Education. Now that he's won the election, can he do it? In this discussion, the American Culture Project's Corey DeAngelis assesses the claim and why he believes following through would be good for the nation.
Psychiatrist Dr Keith Ablow offers advice on how we can reduce anxiety related to being too invested in politics and elections.For more information: https://keithablow.com/
Elections, ultimately, are about the citizens and voters. In a political and media context, we look at elections as being about the winners and their agendas. In an interesting article from the R Street Institute's Matt Germer, the spotlight is also focused on those who lose elections. Why do their words and behaviors in defeat matter? That's the focus of this discussion. Germer says admitting a defeat does not mean admitting policies or principles failed but it does mean participating in a crucial part of our republic: the peaceful transfer of power.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/admitting-defeat-is-crucial-for-the-future-of-democracy/
What happens to the legal cases - both criminal and civil - against Donald Trump now that he has been elected President again? In this discussion, Landmark Legal Foundation's Mike O'Neill breaks down the legal status of the cases, the likely outcomes, and why the processes of the cases could be changed as a result of the election.For more information: https://landmarklegal.org/
With the exception of the US House, where party control is still to be determined, we know that Republicans will control the majority of the federal government come January. In this discussion, Patrick Brown from the Ethics and Public Policy Center outlines what he says is a pro-family agenda for the next Congress.For more information: https://eppc.org/publication/what-the-next-president-could-do-for-families/
The Free Enterprise Project's Scott Shepard provides an update on the strategy many activists and investors are using to steer businesses out of politics and ideological virtue signalling and back to focusing on their core products and services. Among those tools is the Proxy Navigator that allows investors to automatically direct the votes that come with their shares to thateffect.For more information: https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/2024/10/24/scott-shepard-discusses-boycotts-hrc-wef-fascism-and-more-during-pray-vote-stand-summit/
Sgt Betsy Brantner-Smith from the National Association of Police discusses the Violence Against Women By Illegal Aliens Act, introduced by Rep Nancy Mace, and why the organization supports it. For more information: https://nationalpolice.org/main/the-national-police-association-supports-the-violence-against-women-by-illegal-aliens-act/
- this discussion aired before the November 5th electionsKelly Shackelford from the First Liberty Institute reacts to recent comments by Vice President Kamala Harris and other left-of-center politicians promoting the idea of adding justices to the US Supreme Court. this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Elon Musk may have changed the world when he changed Twitter - now X. His purchase of the platform and his pro-free speech overhaul of it has been met with increased scrutiny and threats from regulators in Washington, specifically the Federal Trade Commission.NetChoice's Michael Winterton explains what's happened and why it's not just a case of controversial regulation.For more information (article referenced in this discussion: https://dailycaller.com/2024/10/28/lina-khan-elon-musk-ftc-house-judiciary-committee/For more information: https://netchoice.org/
CNET reporter Katherine Watt outlines what she found while writing her recent article on the economic and financial struggles many Gen Zers are dealing with. To many, the economic and job market conditions are barriers to home ownership.For more information: https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/the-election-and-gen-zs-housing-problem/
Andre Barnes, who works with both Project 21 and Numbers USA, discusses recent surveys that show an increase in minority voters switching from Democratic to Republican candidates. Among other reasons he cites is a shift in voter mindset away from identifying with a racial demogrphic to focusing on policy issues and economic impacts.For more information: https://www.numbersusa.com/team/andre-barnes/For more information: https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/staff/andre-barnes/
Host Mike Ferguson assesses some of the scare tactics and campaign rhetoric that are dominating the discussion over the presidential election.
Daily Signal Managing Editor Tyler O'Neil comments on the controversies related to next week's presidential election. The conversation includes concerns - some valid, some wild conspiracy theories - about the accuracy of the forthcoming results due to questions about voter rolls and voting methods. The conversation also focuses on the importance of having an election process that is trustworthy. Also discussed is the possibility of some states not having vote totals complete on Election Night.
Former Missouri Governor, US Senator, and US Ambassador John Danforth discusses the state of today's divisive politics and what he sees as the Republican Party's drift away from its traditional conservative principles. In this two-part discussion, he contrasts his view on the direction the GOP should be going with it's current MAGA populism under Donald Trump.For more information: https://www.ourrepublicanlegacy.com/
Former Missouri Governor, US Senator, and US Ambassador John Danforth discusses the state of today's divisive politics and what he sees as the Republican Party's drift away from its traditional conservative principles. In this two-part discussion, he contrasts his view on the direction the GOP should be going with it's current MAGA populism under Donald Trump.For more information: https://www.ourrepublicanlegacy.com/* thumbnail image courtesy of Our Republican Legacy
Taxpayers Protection Alliance president David Williams reacts to the hurricane response job FEMA is doing in the southeast US. He also critiques the narrative that only government and nonprofits should respond to disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Williams offers the perspective that free markets, including businesses, should be allowed to work in response to disasters.For more information: https://www.protectingtaxpayers.org/antitrust/the-free-market-is-americas-first-line-of-defense-in-the-wake-of-disaster/
Brandy Meeks, president of the Vitae Foundation, discusses the wave of pro-abortion referendums being decided in this year's elections. Ten states have some version of an abortion statute or state constitutional amendment before voters this year. Meeks assesses the trend and also discusses the changes in our culture that led to this point of having abortion become a defining issue in politics and beyond them.For more information: https://vitaefoundation.org/* thumbnail image courtesy of the Vitae Foundation
Amy Lutz from the St Louis Kaplan Felman Holocaust Museum reflects on the one year mark of the October 7th terrorist massacre in Israel. She also explains why violent antisemitism in the US remains a threat, as shown by the fact many memorial events had to happen with extra caution.For more information: https://stlholocaustmuseum.org/
It's so common that we don't really notice anymore: you buy the phone or TV or other tech device, you set it up and click all those Terms of Service or Terms And Conditions boxes (because you have to to get the thinkg you just bought to work), and then start using it. Americans for Financial Reform, in a recent blog post, points out that we all may be signing away some of our legal rights in that process and that US law should be updated to protect consumers more. Here's the conversation with AFR's Christine Chen Zinner.For more information: https://ourfinancialsecurity.org/2024/10/blog-can-ordering-a-pizza-invalidate-your-fundamental-rights/
Host Mike Ferguson reacts to Vice President Kamala Harris apparently trying to score political/campaign points with Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Gov. Ron DeSantis' response is part of the story that's assessed in this segment.
Phil Kerpen from American Committment assesses the differences between the Republicans' and Democrats' plans for taxes should they win/maintain power after next month's elections. He compares the probable political outcomes of the different scenarios (GOP president and Democratic-controlled Congress, Democratic presidnet and GOP-controlled Congress).* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Landmark Legal Foundation's Mike O'Neill reviews the legal controversies that are still being litigated in some states as we head into the final weeks of the 2024 Election.
Economist Judy Shelton, a senior fellow at the Independent Institute, discusses her new book: Good As Gold, How To Unlease The Power Of Sound Money. From the Independent Institute: She’s one of the few economists bold enough to challenge the inflationary policies of the Federal Reserve, emphasizing how today’s policies enrich elites at the expense of—you guessed it—poor and middle-class Americans. This, Shelton insists, must end. And it can end—easily.For more information: https://www.independent.org/store/book.asp?id=143 * note: this interview was edited due to time constraints for broadcast. Here's a version of the discussion that includes the entire conversation: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wso0gh6xkfulc7g88ppji/Judy-Shelton-Good-As-Gold-Book-FULL-LENGTH-VERSION.wav?rlkey=te4pdiodm6xa6d9tn7v8k63mb&st=s00zdkk9&dl=0
Pete Rose. Charlie Hustle. A key member of "The Big Red Machine". Champion. Greatest Hitter of All Time. Whatever you want to call him, you cannot deny his greatness in baseball. His work ethic put him in a position to win and the skills he built made him the winningest player of all time.In this segment, host Mike Ferguson (who still plays amateur baseball in St Louis) reflects on the legend for his on-field success and the debate over his legacy because of his off-field mistakes.* image courtesy of Pete Rose's official Facebook page
With the destruction of Helene still affecting Americans throughout the Southeast and Hurricane Milton on the the way to Florida, many politicial activists, pundits, and officials are - again - pointing to "climate change" as the reason for the frequency and intensity of dangerous storms. In this discussion, Craig Rucker from CFACT (Committee for a Constructive Tomorrow) disputes the claims and says political ideology has worked its way into the discussion.For more information: https://www.cfact.org/
It's as predictable as can be in politics, right? Organized labor, especially the biggest unions, align with Democrats. Most of the time, that's the case but the Teamsters' national leadership surprised many political observers and operatives by declining to endorse any candidate in the 2024 presidential race. In this discussion, the Competitive Enterprise Institute's Sean Higgins assesses that decision and explains how that could affect both the current and future races.For more information: https://cei.org/blog/teamsters-non-endorsement-outlier-or-sign-of-things-to-come/
Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Wilson Freeman explains why some broadcasters are going to court to fight an FCC proposal that would mandate the reporting of racial and gender demographics of their employees. Among the immediate concerns are the possibility of DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion), hiring-quota type of requirements. Among the long-term concerns is that the possibility of mandating hiring and workforce decisions could eventually affect broadcast content. For more information: https://pacificlegal.org/washington-examiner-the-fccs-public-dei-shaming-is-unconstitutional/
Before activist ideas take hold and grow in places of influence like business board rooms, governments, and even non profit groups, they are generated and grown somewhere - that's often on college and university campuses. In this discussion that originally aired on NewsTalk STL, Speech First's Cherise Trump explains why she belives the pushback against the leftist ideas has momentum and could win the battle of ideas at some point.For more information: https://speechfirst.org/
Paul Hutchinson, executive producer of Sound of Freedom - the film that spotlighted the horrors of the child sex trafficking trade, reacts to the shocking news & allegations we're now getting about sex-based parties in Hollywood. Those accusations are related to the parties hosted by "P Diddy" (aka Sean Combs). Hutchinson says the trafficking trade and sexual abuse is far more widespread than most people realize and is probably happening closer to your home than you realize.For more information: SoundOfFreedomBook.comFor more information: LiberateChildren.org
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy recently issued an official advisory on mental health and parenting, saying government should offer more support and resources to parents because rearing children today is harder than it has been for previoius generations. In this discussion, Chris Bullivant from the Institute for Family Studies takes issue with the doctor's prescription of more government to be involved in the home.For more information: https://ifstudies.org/blog/the-surgeon-generals-dour-picture-of-parenthood-misses-the-mark
Inflation is coming back down to earth and it's rising at a lower rate than before. That's the good news. The bad newes is that today's inflation - while better - piles on top of the high inflation over the past few years. A new report says what most of us already feel: wages have not kept up with inflation. In other words, we've fallen behind and it could take years for many people to catch up financially.In this discussion, Bankrate.com's Sarah Foster explains what the new study found and what it means to our personal finances.For more information: https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/wage-to-inflation-index/
Often relegated to an historical artifact, the US Constitution isn't often held in the same regard as in generations past. Former Virginia Deputy Attorney General Ken Davis, writing for Townhall.com, argues that last week's Constitution Day (it's a real thing, look it up) should be a reminder for our nation to recommit to the principles of the document and to the restraints it puts on government.For more information: https://townhall.com/columnists/j-kennerly-davis/2024/09/15/constitution-day-should-be-an-occasion-for-celebration-and-a-time-for-recommitment-n2644749
Former IDF paratrooper Uri Goldflam has fought Islamic terrorists first-hand. Now, he's making the case for the West to support Israel in its battle for survival at a time when antisemitic protests are far too common around the nation. In this discussion, Goldflam details the current war against Iran and her proxiesas well as why he believes all western nations, especially the US, should be on Israel's side.For more information: https://www.traveltrailerisrael.com/uri/
Can we be too connected? Maybe. New research indicates that the pressure of being connected online and on text could come at a cost to our mental and physical health. In this discussion, Dr Marschall Runge from the University of Michigan Medical School explains what we now know. He also discusses the debates over banning cell phones in schools, which is happening in some states and districts around the country.For more information: https://nypost.com/2024/08/25/us-news/cell-phones-stress-out-parents-just-like-kids-study-finds-constant-connectivity-comes-at-a-cost/For more information: https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/parents-who-frequently-pick-phones-due-device-notifications-may-be-more-stressed
Jordan Fischetti, immigration policy analyst for Americans For Prosperity, assesses both the debate about and the policies related to immigration in the US. This includes discussions of both legal and illegal immigration.
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the ABC Presidential debate between Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.* thumbnail image courtesy of ABC News via Youtube
The Conservative Partnership Institute's Hugh Fike discusses the current debate over keeping the federal government from "shutting down". Basically, the current spending authorization to keep the government running expires at the end of this month. The continuing resolution to extend government funding isn't generally controversial but the GOP addition of the SAVE Act has Democrats (and a few Republicans) opposing the plan. The SAVE Act requires proof of US citizenship in order to register to vote.For more information: https://www.cpi.org/2024/09/compass-the-save-act-is-a-fight-worth-having/
Depending on who you ask, Donald Trump is either the most pro life president in US history or he's unprincipled on the issue. Or somewhere in between. Suzanne Bowdey from the Washington Stand's recent article on his mixed messaging regarding abortion looks at the conflict between pro life advocates, conservatives, and Trump's MAGA movement. She discusses that in this segment.For more information: https://washingtonstand.com/commentary/trumps-abortion-pivot-sparks-outcry-this-is-wrong--and-we-cannot-be-silent-about-it
Chris Dorr from the American Firearms Association reacts to the news of the shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia and the immediate call by some on the Left to enact more gun control laws.This discussion took place on NewsTalk STL and happened before the 14-year-old suspect's father was also charged in connection with the four deaths.
It's playing in theaters across the nation now: Reagan, the biopic about our 40th President. Marshall R. Teague plays Eduard Shevardnadze (USSR Foreign Minister under Mikhail Gorbachev) in the film and discusses his role, the effort to make a movie about Reagan that's fair, and the need for history to reflect Ronald Reagan's legacy - good, bad, and otherwise, accurately.For more information: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1723808/
Is there a stealth lobbying campaign designed to bolster climate activism within the courts? In this discussion, OH Skinner from the Alliance for Consumers details the work some environmental interest groups are doing under the guise of education and training for judges.For more information (National Review article): https://allianceforconsumers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Climate_Activism_Coming_to_a_Courtroom_Near_You___National_Review.pdf
Congress is debating two (related) ideas for regulating what happens online. Specifically, the question is how to best protect children from the ills of social media. That includes everything from blocking ads targeting children to the dangers of groomers and traffickers. Some of the complexity lies in the need to protect freedom of speech and as open of a marketplace as possible. In this discussion, the American Consumer Institute's Logan Kolas explains the proposals and what lawmakers should keep in mind before imposing new regulations.For more information: https://www.theamericanconsumer.org/2024/08/dc-journal-kosa-and-coppa-2-0-miss-the-mark-on-protecting-kids/
Academic freedom is important but can it be abused to the point of making taxpayers fund political activism? According to Rick Hess from the American Enterprise Institute, the answer is yes. Where is the line between respecting the right to free speech and making the public pay for specific opinioins and activism? That's the focus of this discussion.For more information: https://www.aei.org/research-products/report/scholarly-associations-gone-wild-stop-publicly-funding-scholarly-groups-that-trade-academics-for-advocacy/?mkt_tok=NDc1LVBCUS05NzEAAAGVMkC6wuPTheUgtt54HmBgxRLQLBex24qy1DJF8GvOagXLMOErmbUFatIkyy6qbF1ubyh1ZPgW1yQXl8dAUQhUXsoZJU7XyznGRKIJgOGd2szeBC5H
To some degree, there's one area of economic policy that find agreement with some Republicans and some Democrats. The problem is that area of agreement pushes prices up on things most people need to buy. In this discussion, the National Taxpayer Union's Bryan Riley discusses the effort to use tariffs (and other costs added to imports) and how that affects our cost of living.For more information: https://www.ntu.org/publications/detail/import-taxes-inflate-back-to-school-prices-2
It's one thing to understand the issues. It's another to understand how to debate those issues, which cam be divisive. In this discussion, Mercatus Center Executive Director Ben Klutsey discusses the campaign to teach civil discourse in America. Is there a place for that in our classrooms?For more information: https://www.seattletimes.com/opinion/teaching-civil-discourse-a-classroom-blueprint-for-all-america/For More information: Mercatus.org
Since the fatal confrontation between Michael Brown and a Ferguson, Missouri Police officer, the start of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the resulting growth in anti-police activism, many communities are finding it more difficult to keep their officers and recruit new additions to their police departments.Logan Seacrest a Resident Fellow at the R Street Institute looked into ways departments and cities overall can entice good officers to stay on the job while recruiting the best candidates to apply for the jobs that have become far less attractive since Ferguson.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/top-five-real-solutions-to-the-police-recruitment-and-retention-crisis/
Ten years ago, Ferguson, Missouri was in chaos and what we now know as the Black Lives Matter movement was born following the death of Michael Brown. Brown, multiple investigations showed, assaulted a police officer and was shot during the confrontation. Still, narratives about police brutality and years of sometimes-violent protests resulted in significant changes to law enforcement, academia, and even business practices. In this discussion, Project 21's Melanie Collette conpares the facts with the narratives and assesses the state of race relations in America ten years later.
Elaine Parker from the Job Creators Network assesses the latest Consumer Price Index (inflation) report. She also differentiates between the current inflation rate, which is within the target range of a healthy economy, and the effect of multi-year inflation increases that have pushed up the prices of most essentials over the last three years.For more information: https://www.jobcreatorsnetwork.com/press_releases/job-creators-network-responds-to-july-consumer-price-index/
RedState.com writer Joe Cunningham assesses the race for president as the Democrats head into their national convention. He focuses on the importance of Donald Trump staying disciplined and on-message when it comes to his abilituy to win the election.For more information: https://redstate.com/joesquire/2024/08/14/trump-on-the-campaign-trail-today-can-he-stick-to-his-economic-message-n2178090
What is "abusive dance"? That may seem like a strange question but for Mary Bawden, it's one she wants parents of all young dancers to be able to answer. Through DA:NCE (Dance Awareness No Child Exploited), Bawden is working to end what she calls the hypersexualization of girls in dance. In addition to being inappropriate, especailly for very young students, Bawden also says an oversexualized dance environment could invite groomers and traffickers.For more information: https://www.danceawareness.com/
Just over a week ago, the stock markets had a rough day overall. It turned out to be no big deal as some of the losses were regained by the end of the day and most of the losses were regained the next day. Still, it was headline news and many people became scared of a bigger economic loss. Why did one bad day have such an impact? In this discussion, BankRate.com's Greg McBride explains what happened and what we should learn from it when it comes to our own saving and investing.
American Culture Project President John Tillman assesses the selection of Gov Tim Walz to be the Democrats' nominee for Vice President of the United States. Does this pick say anything about the overall direction of the Party and/or the political Left in America? Tillman discusses that and elements of his recent NY Post article in this segment.For more information: https://nypost.com/2024/08/05/opinion/harris-divisive-campaign-aims-to-rev-up-fractured-coalition/* sound bites/actualities for this segment came from a conversation originally aired on KCMO Talk Radio in Kansas City
Pete Sepp from the National Taxpayers' Union reviews the Congressional voting record of now-Governor and Vice Presidential Nominee Tim Walz. The focus of their ratings is on how taxpayer-friendly his spending, taxing, and regulatory votes were while in theUS House.For more minformation: https://www.ntu.org/ratecongress/legislator/timothy-walz
Like it or not, K-12 schools teach values of some kind. As of late, those taught in most public schools have been "social justice" and critical theory-based values. The approach that teaches students that our nation is one of oppression and that demographics fall somewhere on an oppressor-victim chart. In this discussion, Campus Reform's Prof. Nicholas Giordano argues that bringing back accurate civis education can help rebuild at least some of the damage sone to our social foundations.For more information: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/restoring-america/patriotism-unity/3070741/america-desperately-needs-to-bring-back-civics-in-education/For information on Campus Reform: https://www.campusreform.org/
It's one thing to worry about "misinformation" in an election year - politicians and activists lying, biased media, and censorship are among those concerns. New technology adds deepfake audio and video as well as artificial intelligence to the mix of things to beware of when deciding what to believe. In this discussion, Phil Siegle from CAPTRS assesses where the technology is and how you can better filter what you are seeing and hearing.For more information: https://captrs.org/
Landmark Legal FOundation's Mike O'Neill assesses the proposals President Biden is pushing to "reform" the US Supreme Court.* This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
For Herman Lindsey, the debate over the death penalty is personal. Very, very personal. That's because he was on Death Row, convicted of a crime for which he was eventually exonerated. In other words, he was scheduled to die for a crime he did not commit. Now Lindsey works to end the death penalty and currently-scheduled executions across the country, arguing that there are many others in the same situation he experienced. His work is through Witness To Innocence, which is profiled in this discussion.For more information: https://www.witnesstoinnocence.org/* thumbnail image courtesy of Witness To Innocence, as posted on their Facebook page
Professor Wilfred Reilly (Kentucky State University) discusses his new book, Lies My Liberal Teacher Told Me, in this segment. Dr. Reilly says false leftist narratives have come to dominate American academia and education. In his book, Reilly "...demolishes the scholastic myths propagated by the left, uncovers fresh angles on 'established' events, and turns what we think we know about history upside down."For more information about the book: https://www.amazon.com/Lies-My-Liberal-Teacher-Told/dp/B0BHKSKC6R/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1333708176627395&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.FpHNW0PG0xWR5roeQGW-TZt-1QOAO9DGaQHx7LCNttS_zm6NFVYK4SASFM6h8kA8ZaepzwsIPNeFsEglV3bcx3WHJ9EuspVgjLyT0u0tM5baL8caYYq1Ip668B7PnJvh3MshhRdtW1zpXNrNMoVGUA.e4eC5mHE5FJXN9iwYPEYrBhDA4VDWq9yHsD7CpwdD4g&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83357103725945&hvbmt=bp&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=90153&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=p&hvtargid=kwd-83357121708643%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=26053_13567025&keywords=wilfred+reilly+books&msclkid=a519aa80b68d162f15fecc2adcd211c8&qid=1722444446&sr=8-1
- this discussion was recorded before Vice President Kamala Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee and before President Biden announced his proposl to reform the US Supreme Court with term limits and a new ethics code.First Liberty Institute's Kelly Shackelford reacts to comments made by multiple Democrats in support of adding more justices to the US Supreme Court. In the short term, that could (in theory) allow any party in control of the White House and US Senate to simply add justices if they don't like the ideological majority. The conversation also covers the proposal to add a code of ethics on to the Justices that's enforced by another branch of government.For more information: SupremeCoup.com and FirstLiberty.org
Protecting access to affordable housing or a dangerous intrusion into the private market? President Biden announces a plan to cap rent increases through federal policy. In this discussion, Economist Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute explains what the President is proposing and why there's opposition to it.For more information: https://cei.org/news_releases/biden-rent-control-idea-is-bad-housing-policy/
Pastor Corey Brooks accepted the invitation to give one of the benedictions at the Republican National Convention this month and that, he says, resulted in some basklash. In this discussion, Rev Brooks discusses why some activists in deep-blue Chicago objected to his participating in a GOP event and to his speaking out in favor of conservative solutions to the problems facing cities like his.* This version of the discussion aired on NewsTalk STL in order to include part of Rev Brooks' prayer in the segment.Rev Brooks' RNC Prayer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpmOBiC29EI&t=49sFor moreinformation about Project HOOD: https://www.projecthood.org/
Project 21's Craig DeLuz critiques media coverage both before and after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump and before President Joe Biden's cognitive state became a national topic outside of conservative media. The discussion covers media bias and also addresses ways to overcome the challenges to being fully-informed in an age of "fake news".For more information about Craig DeLuz: https://www.craigdeluz.com/For more information about Project 21: https://nationalcenter.org/project-21/
David Williams from the Taxpayers Protection Alliance assesses the 2024 Republican national platform, as adopted at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. The discussion covers energy policy, tax policy, and protectionist trade policies.For more information: https://www.protectingtaxpayers.org/debt/grading-the-2024-gop-platform/
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the speeches and overall effectiveness of the 2024 Republican National Convention.
American Culture Project Chairman John Tillman reacts to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump on July 13th, 2024. While affirming that the ultimate blame is on the young man who pulled the trigger, Tillman also argues that political violence is also a synptom of a "sick culture".For more information: https://amculture.org/* This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
A small non profit in Missouri decided to rethink the way it helps those in need. What they discovered has now led to organizations across the country taking a different approach to charitable work. In this discussion, James Whitford from True Charity explains why much of the assistance (government and private) offered to those in need creates dependence and, as a result, builds obstacles to a better, self-sufficient life. For more information: https://www.truecharity.us/
The SAVE Act (Safeguarding American Voters' Eligibility Act) has now passed the Republican-controlled, US House and will lilkely not get through the Democratic-controlled US Senate. Basically, the law would require states to both purge non-citizens from voter registrations and get proof of US citizenship when registering voters.Almost 200 Democrats in the House voted against the bill and President Biden already announced that he will veto it should it pass the Senate, which is unlikely. In this discussion, Tea Party Patriots Action co-founder Jenny Beth Martin explains why her organization supports the proposal.For more information: https://townhall.com/columnists/jennybethmartin/2024/07/10/house-must-pass-save-act-to-ensure-election-integrity-n2641613
After President Biden joined the pushback against Project 2025, interest in the controversy over the agenda increased in recetn weeks. In this discussion, Brian Phillips from the Texas Public Policy Foundation, which is part of the coalition in support of Project 2025, addresses the accusations against the proposals and operations that both seek to move the Executive Branch in a conservative direction and suggest employees who support the conservative goals.This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Prof Hunter Baker (North Greenville University) examines the debate over the US Supreme Court and its ideological leanings right now. Specifically, he assesses the argument that, because of Donald Trump's nominees, the Court has become "MAGA" and beholden to him and his agenda.For more information: https://wng.org/opinions/is-the-supreme-court-a-maga-court-1720171900?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2QKZ4I5FylbOZ34-clAhuK3A89lCpqmhIfIvCe99S3jPqW5g_2z2C8aiw_aem_t5pKEHyuritNA3ETirMYkg
Tractor Supply Founation president Marti Skold-Jordan is joined by Thomas Miller from the K9s for Warriors non profit to discuss the Foundation's investment in multiple nonprofit groups, including K9s For Warriors. The Foundation is the charitable branch of the Tractor Supply Company.For more information (Tractor Supply Foundation): https://corporate.tractorsupply.com/community/foundation/default.aspxFor more information (K9s For Warriors): https://k9sforwarriors.org/
John Veccione from the New Civil Liberties Alliance reacts to the US Supreme Court's ruling in the Chevron Deference/Doctrine case. The ruling significantly limits the authority of administrative agencies to fine or otherwise penalize people or businesses outside of the standard judicial process.For more information: https://nclalegal.org/press_release/in-landmark-victory-for-civil-liberties-ncla-persuades-supreme-court-to-overturn-chevron-deference/
This segment is a replay from a previous show for the Independence Day weekend programNewsMax TV host Carl Higbie discusses his book, Profiles In Freedom. The book profiles the stories of 19 people Higbie says exemplifies some of the best characteristics of America.* This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Mike O'Neill from the Landmark Legal Foundation assesses the US Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity.* This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL
Maria Baer discusses her recent World Magazine column, The Gaslighting Has Begun, which examines the changing use of terms in the debate over gender ideology and so-called "transgender" issues. In the article, Baer spotlights how some media outlets and medical institutions are reverting back to fact-based gender references as opposed to "affirming" ones that accept the claims of gender dysforic patients. The discussion also covers why the language used to cover and discuss gender-based issues matters if you are pursuing truth.For more information: https://wng.org/opinions/the-gaslighting-has-begun-1717546264
Washington University (St Louis, MO) Professor Tim Bono, author of When Likes Aren't Enough, reacts to the US Surgeon General's statement that social media should have a warning label. This discussion addresses that but also focuses on ways we can use social media while keeping the toxic aspects of the platforms from affecting emotional/mental health.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/When-Likes-Arent-Enough-Happiness/dp/1538743418
Host Mike Ferguson reacts to US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's announcement of a public health advisory on gun violence.
In recent weeks, President Biden announces new policies to provide a pathway to legal status and possibly citizenship for some immigrants who entered the country illegally. The Executive Order covers those who have successfully stayed in the US for several years and are married to a US citizen. In this discussion, Dan Stein from the Federation for American Immigration Reform assesses that policy as well as the Administration's updates approach to DACA and the illegal immigration happening at the US southern border.For more information: https://www.fairus.org/
Researcher, speaker, consultant, and one of the world's leading experts on entrepreneurialism, Gary Schoeniger, discusses the information in his new book, The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage. The discussion includes reasons the mindset can benefit productivity in almost any setting, business or nonprofit.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Entrepreneurial-Mindset-Advantage-Unleashes-Potential/dp/163774577X/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1340305246271449&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w8MWz5-giDuUgYDP0dvAvjUw-UTf-Xca2ahkyNYAfAWGMla77rli_R0LUMhKlsp-JxZ187ZNsg42AH7zbdS2gc55JFs4u-ckqyD7BV0yU-kXZlfnY_v7w4PdgLv6AnnR.7yMZ8NoaBkBuov7oT1c3_uyUYHVH2X1udltBvnT8QIs&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83769150116134&hvbmt=bp&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=90099&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=p&hvtargid=kwd-83769438752512%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=21874_10484566&keywords=gary+schoeniger&msclkid=eaf70e5f07ce122d657268d298d5e830&qid=1720557896&sr=8-1
Prof Robert Cherry, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, assesses how current economic conditions - especially those affecting black Americans - could benefit Donald Trump's campaign. For more information: https://www.aei.org/op-eds/black-unemployment-is-a-weakness-for-dems-that-trump-exploits/
Host Mike Ferguson comments on the renewed debate over whether the requirement to register into the Selective Service system should be extended to young women. Ferguson takes the debate a step farther and argues that the US should eliminate the possibilty of a draft altogether.
Economist Howard Wall (University of Tennessee-Chattanooga) comments on the recent statements by former President Donald Trump, who said he wants to replace many or all income taxes with higher tariffs on forign goods sold in the US.For More information: https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/crer/people
Dr Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tommorow (CFACT) comments on how many states, generally Democratic-led ones, suing fossil fuel providers and other businesses in order to impose environmental/climate agenda goals. In his recent article in The Hill, Cohen covers lawsuits from other states, generally Republican-led ones, to stop the policy-making-by-proxy.For more information: https://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/4698645-red-state-ags-sue-blue-states-for-trying-to-impose-climate-extremism-everywhere/
Patricia Kelmer from the Public Interest Research Group discusses a proposal to change how your credit score is compiled. Under a plan from the Consumer Financia Protection Bureau, medical debt would generally not affect credit scores in the US. Kelmer explains why PIRG supports the idea and responds to pushback against it.For more information: https://pirg.org/edfund/media-center/statement-cfpb-proposes-to-erase-medical-debt-from-credit-reports/
Host Mike Ferguson comments on the recent verdicts convicting both Donald Trump and Hunter Biden. The commentary looks at the politics of the cases, the trend of using the justice system for political gain and the pollible outcomes if both sides continue the tactic.
Demian Brady from the National Taxpayers Union provides details on the apparent lag the IRS is experiencing when it comes to hiring the 87,000 new agents funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. So far, the agency is falling short of their recruiting goals. Brady discusses the logistics, politics, and realities of the situation.For more information: https://www.ntu.org/foundation/detail/qualified-applicants-arent-jumping-to-work-for-the-irs
NumbersUSA's Eric Ruark assesses the recent Biden Administration Executive Order that the White House says will curtail illegal immigration at the US Southern Border. The discussion also includes an update on the long-running political battle over the issue.For more information: NumbersUSA.com
Washington Stand writer Suzanne Bowdy discusses her recent article on the fact that fewer big-league sports teams are promoting Pride Month events ans statements. This, of course, comes after customer backlashes against Bud Light, Target, and other businesses that created controversies related to LGBT promotions.For more information: https://washingtonstand.com/commentary/major-sports-leagues-dump-pride-as-biden-fights-to-fill-the-void
Liberty Justice Center attorney Reilly Stephens explains why they are suing to stop a surveillance system in Illinois that is placing cameras along the highways around the state. The discussion includes reasons what happens with this lawsuit could affect other parts of the country.This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis.For more information: https://libertyjusticecenter.org/pressrelease/liberty-justice-center-lawsuit-challenges-illinois-highway-cameras-mass-surveillance-scheme/
The American Conservative columnist James Pinkerton discusses his recent article on the possibility of the Biden Administration allowing refugees from the Gaza region to come to the US amid the was between Hamas and Israel.For more information: https://www.theamericanconservative.com/coming-to-america-what-if-that-gaza-pier-is-a-two-way-street/
Among the great writers and philosophers in America's conservative movement is Russell Kirk (1918-1994). Now, the center that bears his name is launching a School Of Conservative Studies. In this discussion, the Russell Kirk Center's Jeffrey Nelson explains why the Center built the project, why they believe it's needed, and what they hope to accomplish with it.For more information: https://kirkcenter.org/scs/
For hundreds of thousands of families, competitive travel sports teams are a goal, expense, and emotional pressure-cooker all at the same time. In a recent article, Dr Anthony Bradley observes that the environment could be counterproductive to the goals parents may have when it comes to life lessons. In this discussion, Bradley explains how he came to that conclusion and what he recomments as a better approach.For more information: https://anthonybbradley.substack.com/p/chasing-perfection-how-youth-sports
RedState's Brandon Morse assesses the 2024 presidential race from the perspective of the "other" candidates. Arguably the largest third party in the country is the Libertarian Party. As Morse explains, the LP (and other third parties) could be competitive and effective for their cause but remains irrelevant. For more information: https://redstate.com/brandon_morse/2024/05/27/if-the-libertarian-party-was-libertarian-it-would-win-elections-n2174723#google_vignette
Michigan State University law professor Adam Candeub assesses the recent Supreme Court unanimous ruling in the NRA vs Vullo case. While the National Rifle Association was the plaintiff in the case, it was not about guns or the Second Amendment directly. It was more about First Amendment rights and whether government officials can use their positions to pressure businesses into conducting business (or not) in a specific way. Form more information about Prof Candeub: https://www.law.msu.edu/faculty_staff/profile.php?prof=370For more information about the case: https://www.scotusblog.com/2024/05/supreme-court-rules-for-nra-in-first-amendment-dispute/
A controversial article in the Washington Times challenges the conventioonal thinking many people have when it comes to supporting children when they struggle emotionally. Dr. Everett Piper argues that parents are turning to therapists too quickly, too early, and often needlessly when they (the parents) should be the ones leading their children, especially when there are struggles. He discusses the article and his reasons for challenging the common narrative about therapy in this discussion.For more information: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/apr/10/everett-piper-is-asked-whether-parents-should-be-s/#:~:text=The%20answer%20is%20no%21%20The%20current%20trend%20of,to%20help%20children%20with%20everyday%20challenges%20is%20unhealthy.
A recent survey from Bankrate.com shows how many Americans do not feel like they are successful when it comes to personal finances and financial goals. What might surprise some is the percentage who say they don't think they can achieve financial success in the years ahead. Bankrate's Sarah Foster analyzes the results of the survey and offers advice.For more information: https://www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/financial-success-survey/
NewsMax TV host Carl Higbie discusses his book, Profiles In Freedom. The book profiles the stories of 19 people Higbie says exemplifies some of the best characteristics of America.This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St LouisFor more information: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?linkCode=kpd&ref_=k4w_oembed_CwfzumCoi1csey&asin=1630062286&tag=newstalkstl0f-20&amazonDeviceType=A2CLFWBIMVSE9N&from=Bookcard&preview=newtab&reshareId=8S6YZRJ5HF5VPM9C2ZDF&reshareChannel=system
The FDA has formally started the process to reschedule cannabis/marijuana into a different classification that moves away from complete criminalization. In this discussion, the R Street Institute's Jillian Snider explains why that first step matters, why she feels there are more changes needed to federal policy on the substance, and what should come next.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/cannabis-rescheduling-winning-the-battle-but-not-the-war/
Institute for Justice Attorney Ari Bargil explains the goals of their new Zoning Justice project, which is based on the concept of protecting (or winning) property owners' rights to use their property as they see fit. In many communities, Bargil says overreaching regulations violate those rights.For more information: https://ij.org/issues/zoning-justice/
Forbes technology writer Gene Marks, in a recent article, assesses the evolution of artificial intelligence in America's marketplace. A recent survey of small businesses shows that the majority of business owners plan to invest more in AI in the coming year. Marks says this isn't a "job replacement" that will get rid of employees; it's a "job enhancement" development that will help small businesses compete with bigger ones.For more information: https://www.genemarkstech.com/
Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute reacts to President Biden's announcement of tariffs on some specific Chinese products. The policy is similar to those of the Trump Administration (and now the Trump campaign). Young argues that tariffs raise the cost of living for American consumers and not harm Chinese business and poltiical interests.* This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
(Air date May 19th, 2024) First Liberty attorney Hiram Sasser describes a situation happening (at the time of broadcast) that displaced a pro-Israel conference with only a few days' notice. The hosting hotel and conference center in Nashville, TN abruptly cancelled the event, claiming it was for safety reasons. The hotel had received complaints from pro-Palestinian activists over its doing business with the Christian conference organizers. Sasser also explains the legal ramification and possible precedents of this kind of business decision. * Note: Dave Ramsay offered to host the event at his business headquarters and the event took place as scheduled, although with additional expenses and logistical challenges.
Amid a spike in antisemitic violence on campuses around the country (May 2024), the Biden Administration tries to balance addressing the needs of US ally Israel and a growing anti-Israel sentiment on the Left in the US. In this discussion, Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL) assesses the situations on campuses, in the Middle East, and in the halls of Congress.This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Jeffrey Tucker from the Brownstone Institute explains the censorship that he says happened (and still does) regarding the sale of books. In a fashion similar to the social media suppression of news articles and dissenting opinions, Tucker says online book sellers are either willingly supressing the marketing of books that dissent from narratives preferred by the government or are doing so under pressure from government officials.For more information: https://brownstone.org/articles/book-burning-goes-digital/
Joel Shultz from the National Police Association discusses his recent op-ed, "Less Lethal Options Can Save Lives", which focuses on the lethality of weapons officers should have while on the job. He also addresses the factors that affect the level of force needed in dangerous situations and what the public needs to understand about those cases.For more information: https://nationalpolice.org/main/less-lethal-options-can-save-lives/
Numbers USA's Eric Ruark assesses and reacts to the announcement that the Biden Administration is developing a plan to bring refugees from Gaza/Palestine into the United States. He discusses the politics and the national security aspects of the debate.This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis.
What's oikophobia and is it spreading on college campuses around the country?As criminologist and former sheriff Dr Currie Myers explains, it's a loathing of your home and culture. To answer the second question; it seems like there's a spread of it going around these days. The symptoms may include fighting with police, wearing masks to hide identity, chanting anti-US and anti-Israeli slogans, trespassing, blocking streets, and property damage. The cure is more fundamental and more complicated. Some of the solution lies in the foundations built into young people's lives.Dr. Myers discusses that in this segment.For more information: https://drcurriemyers.substack.com/p/oikophobia-and-its-detrimental-impact
Elections should be about the confidence we have in candidates, be they incumbents or challengers. Increasingly, elections sre becoming about the confidence (or lack of) we have in the process of voting. Often, those on the Left say the Right is suppressing voter turnout and disenfranchising people. At the same time, many on the Right accuse the Left of electoral fraud.Is either claim true? Are both claims true? In this discussion, Daily Signal reporter Fred Lucas discusses the faith we have - and could be losing - in our elections process. His new book. The Myth Of Voter Suppression, digs into the debate.Find the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Voter-Suppression-Assault-Elections/dp/1637587856For more information: https://www.heritage.org/myth-voter-suppression#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20Myth%20of%20Voter%20Suppression,voter%20suppression%20hysteria%20industrial%20complex.
Americans for Limited Government's Rick Manning comments on the Biden reelection campaign using Vice President Kamala Harris as a spokesperson to promote the Administration's economic plan and results. Manning points out that, specifically, the campaign is trying to increase support among black male voters.For more information: https://dailytorch.com/2024/04/not-even-kamala-harris-can-sell-the-biden-economy-to-voters-ignores-inflation-concerns-we-are-in-the-process-of-putting-a-lot-of-money-in-the-streets-of-america/This interview originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
The recently-passed law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok will certainly be litigated for months, if not years. Supporters say it's important national security in an age where the digital world can be a battlefield along with the physical world.What are the costs? In this discussion, James Broughel from the Competitive Enterprise Institute argues that the government's trying to take control will have an effect that's bigger than the current social media landscape. In a recent Forbes article, he argues the precedent could land a "...blow to intellectual discource online."In this discussion, he talks about the law, the effect on freedom of speech, and the possibility of limiting discourse in the name of national security.For more information: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesbroughel/2024/04/30/tiktok-ban-lands-a-blow-to-intellectual-discourse-online/?sh=740c75ae168b
From random assaults on women in broad daylight to AI-generated scams online and over the phone, the threats to us physically and financially continue to evolve.Former NYPD Officer Dean Golemis, now the president of Global Security And Investigative Services, describes today's threats and offers advice on how to reduce your chance of being a victim.
Could one state's strict environmental laws affect the entire nation's economy - and your household finances? According to Dr Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (CFSCT), the answer is yes.In this discussion, he explains how California's effort to mandate electric freight trains in the state could result in supply chain disruptions across the nation, especially if other states follow suit. For more information: https://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/4549111-us-freight-rail-supply-chain-now-at-the-mercy-of-californias-net-zero-emissions-rule/
Calling something "election interference" is all the rage right now, but is there merit to the claim when someone controls what you're allowed to see and hear, at least in part of your life? That's the argument the Media Research Center's Dan Schneider is making when discussing a new report that shows social media and big tech companies suppressed posts and search results that promoted conservative (or Republican) messages during the 2020 campaign.* this conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
American Spectator writer Nate Hochman discusses his recent article on the conflict within and focused on NPR after a long-time reporter admits (in an article) that they have lost the trust of many listeners because of their overt bias. The discussion also covers the effect of most media picking a side (politically, culturally, or both) and reporting from that perspective. Most of the time in the US, that means information is filtered through a leftist lens.For mor information: https://spectator.org/its-bigger-than-nprs-katherine-maher/
It's not a new concept, per se, in America but there's a new look to microschooling right now - and the number of families using the approach is growing. In this discussion, the National Microschooling Center's Don Soifer explains what microschooling is, what it offers, and why people of different perspectives are implementing it to education their children.For more information: https://microschoolingcenter.org/
Before being released, one teachers' union leader called for this book to be burned. In this discussion, Corey DeAngelis, discusses the book and why the education establishment won't like it. DeAngelis, America's premier advocate for school choice, details the purpose of his bew book, The Parent Revolution, the momentum the education freedom movement has right now, and why the debate is far from settled around the country.For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Parent-Revolution-Rescuing-Radicals-Ruining/dp/1546006869
The Biden Administration, through the ATF and DOJ, recently announced new regulations on buying and selling guns. Opponents argue that could result in just about anyone who owns a gun could become a felon just by selling their private property. Chriss Dorr from the American Firearms Association explains the new regulations - which are not laws passed by Congress - and how it could affect gun owners.
Former Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) discusses the work she's now doing on the advisory board of Christians Engaged. The group is asking Christians to "pray, vote, and engage" in the political and cultural debates. For more information: ChristiansEngaged.org
Roy Beck, founder of Numbers USA and author of Back Of The Hiring Line, responds to the recent unemployment and workforce participation reports by comparing them will the nnumbers tracking immigration - especially illegal immigration - into the US. Beck says the economic impact disproportionally affects black and other minority workers.
Taxpayer Protection Alliance President David Williams laments the amound of taxation to which Americans are subjected each year. Worse: the IRS is among the federal agencies that have been weaponized against citizens who have spoken up against those in power over the last several years.WIlliams also discusses the debate over extending tax cuts that are scheduled to expire this year.
Among the recent evolutions in the marketplace is, obviously, the gig economy. From ride shares to delivery services to home repairs, there's a gig app for a variety of services. That's allowed workers to take on side jobs, replace lost jobs, or make extra money in retirement. For regulators and lawmakers, though, it's also looked at as a reason to impose rules on the businesses that run the platforms.The R Street Institute's Jarrett Dieterle argues against a heavy regulation approach to the emerging gig economy in this discussion, which originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/counterpoint-when-it-comes-to-the-gig-economy-the-only-thing-to-fear-is-fear-itself/
Job Creators Network President Elaine Parker responds to President Biden's latest effort to erase student loan debt. In this discussion, she assesses the new plan from the Administration, how it relates to the US Supreme Court's ruling against the previous orders to forgive the debts, and how both the system and the Academy need reforms.
Looking for your next job could lead you right into a scam. In this discussion, LinkedIn's Francisco Tobon describes some of the online scams targeting job seekers and how sophisticated the dangers are at this point. He also offers advice on keeping your personal identity and financial information safe during the online job search process and describes some of the tools available to help/
"Decarbonization is a political agenda". That's how the American Energy Institute's Jason Issac assesses the push for more renewable energy mandates and smart grid implementation. Among the consequences of that, he says, is an increase in the cost of energy for all Americans and the possibility of more energy shortages.For more information: https://americanenergyinstitute.com/
Alex Nestor, Investigative Fellow for Parents Defending Education, discusses her recent report for the Washington Examiner. Her piece says the Chinese Communist Party, through partnerships with schools in the US, is influencing education and students here. * this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. LouisFor more information: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/2942388/the-ccps-influence-is-seeping-into-us-schools/
After high-profile news stories of squatters taking over homes in New York and California, as well as the now-infamous social media video of an illegal immigrant influencer using TikTok to encourage other illegal migrants to "invade" properties using squatters' rights loopholes, some states are working to change their laws.In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis led the effort to change squatting from a civil to a criminal matter and, now, police can remove and arrest the intruders on the spot. Other states are following Florida's lead.In tnhis discussion, Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Mark Miller assesses the laws in question, explains why property rights matter in the legal system, and the difference between squatting and "adverse possession", which he argues should still be allowed in rare and specific circumstances.
Professor John Inazu, author of Confident Pluralism, argues that disagreeing over political, cultural, even religious issues doesn't have to be detrimental to us as people or to our communities if we know how to navigate thedifferences.That's the foundation of his new book, Learning To Disagree.To order or learn more: https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Disagree-Surprising-Navigating-Differences/dp/0310368014
New York City's government is fighting in court to allow non-citizens to vote in local elections. NYC is one of several communities to pass laws to allow residents - citizen or not - to vote in races including school boards, city councils and mayors, utility boards, library boards, etc.In this discussion, Becky Arps from Americans For Citizen Voting explain why they oppose allowing that to happen and why no one should accept claims that non-citizens are/will be voting only in local races.
CatholicVote Political Director Logan Church assesses the case before the US Supreme Court about Mifepristone. That's the "abortion pill" also known as RU486. Supreme Court Justices recently heard oral arguments in Food and Drug Administration (FDA) v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine (AHM), which is challenging the FDA’s decision to approve the drug.https://catholicvote.org/pro-life-leaders-emboldened-after-scotus-abortion-pill-hearing-no-to-unregulated-chemical-abortion/
RedState.com's Jennifer Oliver O'Connell assesses the controversy surrounding Planet Fitness and their policy of allowing men in the womens' locker/shower spaces. A man who self-identified as queer was photographed in an Alaska PF women's locker room and declared he has a right to be there. When a female member complained, her membership was cancelled. Since then, Planet Fitness has doubled-down on their policy of allowing men who claim to be women in those spaces.Within days of the news, Planet Fitness lost millions of dollars in market value.
The American Culture Project's John Tillman discusses the debate over some specific voting and campaign tactics popular with Democrats. Among them are ballot harvesting, drop boxes, and mail in voting which are supported by Democrats far more than they are by Republicans.These options are often cited by conservatives as opportunities to cheat in elections. Tillman says that, even if Republicans want to ban them from the legal options, they should legally use them now.
When we think of getting better rest at night, we usually don't think of making technology part of the process. CNET reporter Lexi Savvides tested several high-tech approaches to getting better sleep. That's connected to her participation in a sleep study. In this discussion, she gives us an overview of some of the technology that can help you get a better night's sleep, how it works, and why it is important to you health.For more information: https://www.cnet.com/tech/features/i-was-always-waking-up-tired-i-used-tech-and-science-to-sleep-better/
Rick Manning from Americans for Limited Government takes issue with the Biden Administration's new environmental rules targeting emissions from cars. The regulations are designed to reduce the permissible exhaust from cars under the guise of improving environmental conditions. Manning is among those pointing out that if this rule stands, the supply and cost of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles will be affected. Basically, the regulation could eventually eliminate today's cars from the roads and only allow electric vehicles.
Andrew Langer from CPAC's Center For Regulatory Freedom argues that the Biden Administration violates the First Amendment rights of Americans when it pressures social media companies to limit (or block) dissenting opinions online. That's the focus of a case before the US Supreme Court right now brought by the Attorneys General of Missouri and Louisiana.
In a victory for DEI opponents, a district court judge has ruled that the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), a federal agency charged with supporting minority-owned businesses, violates the Constitution’s core requirement of equal treatment under the law and that the agency can no longer run programs or grants based on race.In this discussion, David Bernstein from George Mason University's Liberty and Law Center, explains the ruling and why he believes it's correct.
Former Department of Justice lawyer Michael Buschbacher, who served in the DOJ's Environmental Division, responds to the Biden Administration's effort to push more electric vehicles into the market and, as a result, push traditional combustion engine vehicles out.The mandates, he argues, aren't only an overreach of government but they are based on false scientific claims.For more information, you can view his recent Wall Street Journal oped here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/electric-cars-emit-more-soot-california-ban-gas-powered-vehicles-521b29e3?st=87t13jo6gtlkq51&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
March is national nutrition month. Dr. Julie Gatza offers advice on making your diet healthier in a way that's simple.She myth-busts some common beliefs on foods many people think are healthy but, in fact, are just the opposite.For more information: https://naturessources.com/dr-julie-gatza/
Now that the US House has passed a bill to require TikTok owner Bytedance to sell the social media platform, the US Senate will have the final say. President Biden has already said he would sign the bill into law should it pass Congress. Supporters say that's required to stop the Chinese Communist Party's surveillance of and influence on Americans.The law could result in the banning of TikTok in America if Bytedance refuses to sell it to an approved buyer.Critics, including FreeThePeople.com's Matt Kibbe, say the idea is a violation of Americans' rights to free speech and free association and is also an overreach of government into the free market. In this segment, Kibbe responds to the push for the regulation and possible ban.
Caroline Moore from Parents Defending Education discusses information showing how large increases in illegal immigration affects public schools. The information pertains to Denver's schools and includes the financial stress on the District. Despite that, Moore says District officials choose ideology over prioritizing students in the schools, citizen and noncitizen, who are legally in the community.For more information: https://defendinged.org/incidents/records-request-reveals-denver-public-schools-struggling-to-accommodate-migrant-students/
Should donors to nonprofit groups be allowed to remain anonymous, even if those groups are active in socal or policy work? People United for Privacy's Alex Baiocco says protecting the privacy of donors in some areas is important to free speech. In this discussion, he explains why and differentiates between issue-based nonprofit groups and partisan campaigns.
Barry Hinckley, founder of the ReDeclaration of Independence, explains why he co-founded the online petition project and what they hope to accomplish if they reach their signature goal. Hinckley also discusses some of the specific issues the ReDeclaration demands of elected leaders at the national level.For more information: https://redeclaration.org/
Will Scharf, one of the attorneys on Donald Trump's legal team, reacts to the US Supreme Court ruling that overturned Colorado's decision to ban the former president from the primary ballot. The ruling has a nationwide effect, stopping efforts in other states from similar bans.
As more cities - and many smaller communities - try to keep up with property and violent crime, there's a reminder to keep the rights of everyone in mind when making policy changes.Steven Greenhut from the R Street Institute is among those saying any criminal justice reform and crime prevention efforts must respect the constitutional rights of everyone in the US.
There's not much media coverage of it but violent attacks against houses of worship in the United States is on the rise. According to the First Liberty Institute's Jeremy Dys, the violence seems motivated by disagreements over political and social issues. A study of the attacks was recently compiled by the Family Research Center based on reported crime data.The bottom line is that property damage, threats, and overt violence against faith-based organizations is often designed to suppress religious practice and expression.
A new survey from BankRate.com shows that fewer Americans believe home ownership is feasible for them right now. While a variety of reasons, including debt, interest rates, and inflation, are cited as reasons for that, the effect of the changes extends into other parts of our economy.In this discussion, Bankrate Senior Analyst Mark Hamrick reviews the survey results and assesses why it matters to everyone.More information can be found at: https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/down-payment-survey/
Congressman Ken Buck (R-CO) recently filed a resolution calling for the invocation of the 25th Amendment to remove Joe Biden from office, arguing that the President is no longer congnitively able to hold the office.In this discussion, Mike O'Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation provides an overview of what the 25th Amendment allows (and what it doesn't), why it was put into the Constitution, and the proper way to invoke it.
Netchoice's Carl Szabo argues against new laws in Florida and Texas that, if upheld by the US Supreme Court, ban social media companies from censoring content on their platforms. Netchoice is involved in the case. Szabo says the laws require the private companies to host and carry content they do not want to be involved with and that, in his opinion, is a violation of the First Amendment rights of the businesses.
Brandon Arnold from the National Taxpayers Union comments on some recent announcements that some companies are backing off of their ESG (environmental and social governance) investing policies. To Arnold, this is a step in the right direction for consumers, investors, and environmental concerns.
The Competitive Enterprise Institute's John Berlau disagrees with some lawmakers who claim a proposed merger between Discover and Capitol One is bad for consumers. Berlau argues that this specific merger could be good for customers - of these companies and even for those who use competing serives.
The presidential election is in November, of course, but conservative advocacy groups and think tanks are already preparing to transition to a new administration. That's if a Republican wins. It's called Project 2025 and is being led by the Heritage Foundation.Project 2025 offers a potential conservative president a blueprint for reforming administrative agencies and it recruits, trains, and suggests conservatives to serve in a new administration.In this discussion, Spencer Chretien explains what the project is
When does government cross the line in demanding too much personal information? The Pacific Legal Foundation is suing the Census Bureau over just that. The American Community Survey asks, among other things, personal sexual matters, family relationships, and past marriages. The Census Bureau says refusing to answer could result in prosecution and fines.In this discussion, PLF attorney Adi Dynar explains why they say the questions and threat of fines violate the rights of Americans.
Sr Economist Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute assesses the recent (January, 2024) jobs and inflation report.
Tyler O'Neil is the managing editor of The Daily Signal and, in this conversation, he assesses the current debate over the "transgender" trend happening in the US right now. The discussion includes the social/cultural extremes being taken to promote and protect the movement, even as emerging research confirms the harms being done to young people. The conversation also includes the long-term damage done to "detransitioners" and the issue of liability for those who administered the elective treatments (hormones, puberty blockers, surgeries, etc).These and other aspects of the "transgender" trends are covered in the Daily Signal's podcast:https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/07/transgender-series-part-1-rapid-onset-gender-dysphoria/https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/08/transgender-series-part-2-truthful-therapist-explains-parents-cant-trust-mental-health-professionals/https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/09/transgender-series-part-3-detransitioner-medical-malpractice-lawsuits-will-yield-10m-judgments-lawyer-says/
Tyler O'Neil is the managing editor of The Daily Signal and, in this conversation, he assesses the current debate over the "transgender" trend happening in the US right now. The discussion includes the social/cultural extremes being taken to promote and protect the movement, even as emerging research confirms the harms being done to young people. The conversation also includes the long-term damage done to "detransitioners" and the issue of liability for those who administered the elective treatments (hormones, puberty blockers, surgeries, etc).These and other aspects of the "transgender" trends are covered in the Daily Signal's podcast:https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/07/transgender-series-part-1-rapid-onset-gender-dysphoria/https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/08/transgender-series-part-2-truthful-therapist-explains-parents-cant-trust-mental-health-professionals/https://www.dailysignal.com/2024/02/09/transgender-series-part-3-detransitioner-medical-malpractice-lawsuits-will-yield-10m-judgments-lawyer-says/
Former Florida State Representative Mike Hill, who is black, argues that Black History Month has become a month of "grievances" and has become counterproductive to the goals of teaching black history, uplifting people, and being a source of unity in America.He also argues that the observance has become weaponized politically by the Left in America.Hill is now part of the Project 21, America's largest network of black conservatives.For more information: https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/2024/02/05/black-history-month-as-black-americans-push-back-on-progressivism-their-future-looks-brighter/
New York City is the first to declare social media a health hazard. The point of that can be to draw awareness to something and motivate people to do more to protect young people. Another possible point of that is to set things up for more government regulations.Americans For prosperity's James Czerniawski discusses the City's declaration and warns against government trying to do too much under the guise of protecting young people.
RJ Cross is the director of the Don't Sell My Data Campaign, part of the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG). In this segment, she discusses a new study about digital privacy and consumer protection online. The State of Privacy: How State “Privacy” Laws Fail To Protect Privacy, And What They Can Do Better grades the 14 state-level consumer privacy laws that have passed so far, finding nearly half receive an ‘F’ for how well they protect consumers’ personal information. None get an ‘A’.In this conversation, Cross describes how personal data can be collected and used (for both legitimate marketing and criminal purposes) without your knowledge or permission. She also discusses what PIRG suggests as ideal policy for consumer protection and critiques some of the laws on the books around the country now.For more information: https://epic.org/documents/the-state-of-privacy-report/https://pirg.org/
The Shumer-McConnell border deal, known as the Senate bi-partisan border security deal, is dead. Both opposition in the US Senate and refusal by Republican leaders in the House stopped it before any debate happened. Keep in mind that the "Green New Deal" was also stopped in Congress before elements of that ended up in other legislation. Could elements of the border bill end up the same way?NumbersUSA's James Massa explains why so many conservatives in particular objected to this bill and offers his thoughts on what Congress and the President should do to secure the border.
Souther Methodist University Professor James Coleman critiques the Biden Administration's decision to halt the permits for multiple natural gas projects. The Administration says the pause is for environmental reasons.Dr. Coleman argues that slowing down - or stoppoing - natural gas drilling, distribution, and exporting is not only bad for US customers because gas is less expensive than other options; he says it's bad for the US internationally. That's because, Coleman says, limiting the exports of liquefied natural gas leads other countries to depend on nations including Russia for their energy needs.
American Commitment's Phil Kerpen assesses the aspect of the US economy that are stabilizing and that are moving in the right direction. He also cautions against assuming the worst is over in this economic cycle, saying that more bad decisions on taxing and/or spending could lead to more inflation.
Elaine Parker from the Job Creators Network discusses the current state of the economy and why the public sometimes is getting incomplete information about it.* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis. RedState.com's Deputy Managing Editor, Susie Moore, cohosted this segment.
Over the weekend, US Senate leaders released rthe text of their new bipartisan border security bill. That plan is already facing significant opposition for multiple reasons. In this discussion, Hugh Fike from the Conservative Partnership Institute focuses on the fact that known criminals and some of the terrorist watch list have illegally entered the country through the southern border.In one case, a known terrorist was apprehended in southern California as he was entering the US illegally and then released into the country.
Dr. J. Michael Waller argues in his new book, Big Intel, that two of the main agencies designed to protect us have become corrupted by ideology. He argues that implementing concepts including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) priorities and others popular on the Left compromise the mission and tactics of the CIA and FBI. J. Michael Waller is Senior Analyst for Strategy at the Center for Security Policy.https://www.amazon.com/Big-Intel-Heroes-State-Villains/dp/1684513537
Congressman Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) is proposing a multi-trillion dollar reparations plan that, if passed, would make large direct payments to millions of black Americans. discussion, In this the Heritage Foundation's GianCarlo Canaparo argues against the idea not just because of the size but, he says, because of a fairness and justice aspect of the debate.https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/house/2803571/squad-member-bowman-pitches-paying-14-trillion-reparations-program/https://www.heritage.org/staff/giancarlo-canaparo
Pregnancy Resource Centers focus - rightly - on pregnant women in crisis situations, but what happens after the initial crisis and she's preparing for a life with her child? One of America's leading PRCs, St. Louis-based Thrive, provides multiple educational, medical, and other programs to help new moms build a healthy, self-sufficient life.Through their Fatherhood Initiative, they are also preparing young men to become fathers, partners, and coparents. That's not just for the benefit of the child but for the mother as well. In this discussion, Thrive's Levi Hart describes the process, the benefits, and the reasons accountable dads (when that's possible and healthy) should be involved.For more information: https://thriveexpresswomenshealthcare.com/
Pregnancy Resource Centers focus - rightly - on pregnant women in crisis situations, but what happens after the initial crisis and she's preparing for a life with her child? One of America's leading PRCs, St. Louis-based Thrive, provides multiple educational, medical, and other programs to help new moms build a healthy, self-sufficient life.Through their Fatherhood Initiative, they are also preparing young men to become fathers, partners, and coparents. That's not just for the benefit of the child but for the mother as well. In this discussion, Thrive's Levi Hart describes the process, the benefits, and the reasons accountable dads (when that's possible and healthy) should be involved.For more information: https://thriveexpresswomenshealthcare.com/
FIRE (Foundation For Individual Rights and Expression attorney Bob Corn-Revere explains why they are challenging a new Utah law that proponents say could help protect children from online dangers and bad influences. The law requires everyone in the state to verify their age before using social media.For more information: https://www.thefire.org/news/lawsuit-utahs-clumsy-attempt-childproof-social-media-unconstitutional-mess
Professor Catherine Pakaluk discusses recent reports - and policy proposals - that say our country needs more children and bigger families. In addition to the stabilizing effect research indicates strong families have on households and communities, some researchers argue that higher birthrates are good for our economy as well.Dr. Pakaluk assesses some policy proposals that invilve government/tax incentives for families to have more children.https://business.catholic.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-profiles/pakaluk-catherine/index.html
An IRS pilot program is testing an online tax filing system designed to compete with private-sector services like those offered by HR Block, TurboTax, and CPAs around the country. In this segment, Patrick Hedger from the Taxpayers' Protection Alliance explains why he hopes the "Direct File" program gets scrapped and, for now, why he thinks you should avoid using it.
The Endangered Species At turns 50 in 2024. Promoted as a way to save endangered animals, some are now questioning both the actual motive and the results. In this discussion. CFACT (Committee for a Constructive Tomorrow) Senior Analyst Dr Bonner Cohen details why they believe the premise and design of the Act led to failure.For more information: https://dailycaller.com/2023/12/22/opinion-this-landmark-conservation-bill-has-been-an-abject-failure-for-fifty-years-bonner-cohen/* this conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis, MO
The gig economy opens up new opportunities for work in ways almost unimaginable a decade ago. Now there's a debate over regulations on gig/independent contractor work with the Biden Administration pushing for more of these jobs to be pushed into traditional payroll jobs. That would change the costs for employers and possibly limit the flexibility of the workers.In this discussion, R Street Institute resident senior fellow Jarrett Dieterle assesses the rules being proposed and the likely consequences those would bring.For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/dols-new-independent-contracting-rule-a-20th-century-policy-for-a-21st-century-economy/
First Liberty attorney Kayla Toney explains a lawsuit being recommended to the US Supreme Court that challenges public school policies regarding the sexual behavior and/or confusion of children. The case, John and Jane Parents 1 v. Montgomery County, focuses on a district's rule to hide a child's "gender transition", demand to use a different name, demand to use opposite sex pronouns, and other sexual and identity issues from parents.It's likely that thousands of public school districts across the country have similar policies, which First Liberty argues violates, among others, the religious freedom of parents.For more information: https://firstliberty.org/news/will-scotus-protect-parents/* thumbnail image courtesy of the First Liberty Institute
*This segment aired before the Iowa CaucusesHost Mike Ferguson assesses the state of the GOP presidential race.
The Biden Administration is being accused of trying to tilt regulation of the internet in a way that would restrict investment in new technology and could target conservative perspectives and organizations. Citizens Against Government Waste is among the conservative groups opposing the regulations being proposed by the FCC, which is now led by a Democratic majority board. CAGW's Tom Schatz explains how the new rules could affect content, freedom of expression, and the availability of broadband service around the country.https://www.cagw.org/legislative-affairs/agency-comments/cagw-files-comments-fcc-proposed-net-neutrality-rulemaking
Over the past week, a video surfaced of Dr. Francis Collins, former Director of the National Institutes of Health, admitting that multiple recommendations that led to shutdowns, mandates, and other restrictions, were made without complete data and without concern to the consequences. That adds fuel to the accusations that the "expert class" that contributed to the shuting down businesses, schools, houses of worship, and to the implementation of mandates we now know were ineffective.In this discussion, Dr Phil Magness from the Independent Institute reacts to the comments and discusses why we should remain skeptical of politically-influenced bureaucrats.
When we think of a court system, we think of the judicial process whether that is criminal or civil. There is another type of court that many are not aware of: administrative law courts. Stone Washington from the Competitive Enterprise Institute explains what those are and how they differ from judicial courts. Administrative law courts are essentially internal courts within regulatory agencies that are overseen by those agencies.For more information: https://cei.org/news_releases/administrative-law-courts-are-unfair-and-need-reform/
Former White House Economic Advisor (under Pres Donald Trump) assesses the state of the US economy. He also offers both his outlook about what to expect this year and advice to policy makers on how to improve economic conditions for everyone.* this conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Andy Roth leads the State Freedom Caucus Network, which is working to establish affiliate caucuses around the country. The groups are modeled after the House Freedom Caucus in Washington DC, which was founded to advocate for limmited government and free-market policies. In this discussion, Roth explains what the goals of the growing organization are and how they plan to influence policy at the state level.https://statefreedomcaucus.org/
RedState writer Bob Hoge discusses the reduction in early applications Harvard University received since the recent spike in antisemitic protests and statements happend on that campus. At Harvard, the early applications are down 17%. Hoge discusses what appears to be a market reaction to the activities and statements that happened there and on other campuses around the country.https://redstate.com/bobhoge/2023/12/17/you-reap-what-you-sow-harvard-early-admissions-applications-plunge-17-percent-n2167662
Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Caleb Trotter explains why they are suing the State of New Jersey over telehealth laws. Now that most COVID-era regulations and exceptions to some regulations have expired, conversations between doctors and patients via telehealth could be considered illegal in some areas. That's because the patient and doctor might be in different states at the time of the conversation, opening up doctors to accusations of practicing medicine without a license in the state the patient is in at the time of the call or video conference.More information:https://pacificlegal.org/30-states-telehealth-rules/
Bankrate.com Senior Analyst Greg McBride discusses the findings of their new survey showing that many Americans are pessimistic about their own personal finances in 2024. In other words, they think they might end the year in worse shape than they are in right now.McBride also offers advice on setting your personal finances and financial plan in the right direction.
LA-based Channel 1 is implementing artificial intelligence to write and broadcast news. The media outlet intends to digitally create AI news anchors to deliver the news this year. Christopher Alexander from Pioneer Development Group explains what the outlet is doing and discusses the changes in how we consume media that are likely coming in the neear future.https://www.channel1.ai/
The "holiday blues" is a real thing for many Americans. So are struggles with emotional and mental challenges this time of year in particular. In this discussion, Holly Swenson, a Registered Nurse and author, offers advice on how to spot mental or emotional stuggles within yourself or others and how to prioritize self-care.Holly's book: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Drop-Grow-Glow-Connections/dp/1950476731Holly's website: https://liveyourglow.live/?fbclid=IwAR06UsSCdJr50qCRo0Mz7mWl0uo7tncPTQZdm4OUA1hnlUtVUZUqWPBkM2c
Landmark Legal Foundation's Mike O'Neil addresses the arguments being made in multiple states where lawsuits have been filed seeking to block Donald Trump from being on the ballot. This segment aired prior to the Colorado Supreme Court's ruling that banned Trump from thier 2024 primary ballot. That case is referenced in this segment but a ruling had not been made at the time. On NewsTalk STL in St Louis, O'Neil explained and reacted to that ruling. That conversation can be heard here: https://omny.fm/shows/newstalk-stl/mike-oneil-on-co-supreme-court-kicking-trump-off-p?in_playlist=mike-ferguson-in-the-morning
RedState writer Jeff Charles takes issue with a Republican proposal to punish some universities that are not standing up to antisemetic protests on their campuses. In some cases, protesters (student and sometimes faculty) have been part of protests calling for genocide against Israelis/Jewish people. Charles argues that the proposal in the US Senate, which would levy a tax on the endowments of offending schools, is the wrong approach.* This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
The Lion (ReadLion.com) writer Jillian Schneider discusses her recent article on what she says is a failure of the public education system that affects boys in particular. Here's the article and more information:https://readlion.com/americas-public-education-system-is-failing-boys/
Katrina McKinney-Kimble from the Men's Health Network draws attention to the unique stressors that affect men during the holiday season, especially when a difficult economy amplifies some struggles. She explains how men and women handle difficulties differently, offers advice on spotting potential struggles, and offers advice on dealing with those.
Identity Theft Resource Center president Eva Velasquez describes the year's worth of work the organization put together regarding the emergence of facial recognition, facial verification, and related biometric technology. The team and ensuing report looks at the pros and cons of facial recognition and verification when it comes to personal privacy and identity theft.Here's the full report: https://www.idtheftcenter.org/publication/itrc-biometric-working-group-discussion-paper/
Aaron Dorr from the American Firearms Association reacts to the announcement of a new "assault weapons" ban gun control bill by Sen. Chuck Shumer. Dorr also provides an overview of the legal debate over the meaning of the Second Amendment.* This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Former Congressman and former US Ambassador Francis Rooney evaluates the war between Israel and Hamas and the performance of the Biden Administration in providing leadership as the situation grows to affect more countries.
Sean Higgins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute argues that business in America could be close to a mjor change. Specifically, he thinks the standard 40-hour work week could become a thing of the past as more workers value flexibility in hours and where they do their job.Here's his origina article on the debate: https://dcjournal.com/point-40-hour-workweek-is-under-scrutiny/
National Right To Work's Mark Mix describes a worker freedom case that's been appealed to the US Supreme Court. At issue in the Alaska vs Alaska State Employees Association case is whether the public sector union is allowed to deduct dues and any other fees from workers' paychecks without them agreeing to that or whether the Janus decision prohibits it.AS of 12/6/23, there has not been an announcement as to whether the Court has decided to take up the case for the 2024 term.
After Senator Elizabeth Warren of twas mildly mocked after posting a series of complaints about a proposed merger of two sub sandwich chains. In this discussion, Taxpayer Protection Alliance president Pat Hedger reacts to the tweets and the bigger picture of the government's role in regulating (some would say micromanaging) free market decisions.* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Hudson Institute scholar Luke Coffey addresses common objections and misunderstandings of US funding for Ukraine. The money, purposed to help the nation survive Russia's invasion, is the subject of intense debate in US politics. https://www.hudson.org/foreign-policy/ten-myths-us-aid-ukraine-luke-coffey
The Free Enterprise Project's Stefan Padfield draws attention to a proposed rule that the NASDAQ stock exchange could impose on listed companies regarding board diversity. The rule, according to Padfield, is that all companies would have to either disclose the demographic makeup of their boards of directors or publicly state why they haven't disclosed that information.In addition to the regulation, Padfield argues that the rule would not be effective in increasing diversity since it specifically allows for self-identification as meeting the goals. In other words, a man who claims to be ("self identifies") a woman would count the same as an actual, biological woman. The Free Enterprise Project has filed a lawsuit against the Securities and Exchange Commission over implementation of the rule.https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/2023/11/01/stefan-padfield-nasdaqs-absurd-diversity-rule-will-replace-women-with-men-who-identify-as-women-to-achieve-equality-for-women/
Bankrate.com Senior Analyst Ted Rossman explains why almost half of shoppers might have money available that you're not aware of. On average, those who have forgotten gift cards have $187 of useable funds, even if the gift cards are old. He explains how to confirm what's available and also provides tips on navigating this year's holiday shopping season at a time of high inflation and other economic uncertainties.
Historian Marcus Witcher from Huntingdon College provides insight into the legacy of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who died at the age of 96 right before Thanksgiving. While her time at the White House was relatively short, Dr. Witcher, who is currently writing a book about President Jimmy Carter, explains that her legacy can easily be both overlooked and underestimated.Among Mrs. Carter's accomplishments was her role in changing how Americans discuss issues related to mental health.* this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
- note: this was recorded prior to the first prisoner exchangeNewsMax TV host Carl Higbie, in addition to being a political analyst, is a former Navy Seal. In this conversation, he assesses the Biden Administration's response to Hamas' attack on Israel.Carl Higbie Frontline airs weekdays at 5:00pm Eastern.
At a time when most colleges have bias hotlines, mandatory diversity training, and stated goals of multiculturalism, how is blatant antisemitism growing with, in some cases, open support from faculty members?In this discussion, Speech First's Cherise Trump explains how she thinks leftist policies have actually set up campus communities to incubate the mindset and practice of anti-Jewish discrimination.https://speechfirst.org/
Since the Dobbs Supreme Court decision, election victories in "purple areas" around the country have generally moved toward Democrats with abortion being among the factors in the races. That's resulted in calls from some Republican elected officials, candidates, strategists, and pundits to call for the GOP to back off the pro life message.RedState writer Jennifer Oliver O'Connell disagrees and explains why in this conversation.https://redstate.com/jenniferoo/2023/11/09/the-pro-life-movement-and-the-republican-party-are-not-synonymous-n2166082
Mike O'Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation explains what's in the new Code of Ethics issued by the US Supreme Court for justices and staff. *This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Phil Kerpen from American Commitment provides an overview of recent changes being pushed by the Biden Administration to add regulations on the internet and internet service providers. https://www.americancommitment.org/fcc-chairs-bad-wi-fi-is-not-a-reason-to-regulate-the-internet/
For many Americans, trust in public health agencies at multiple levels of government has been destroyed after years of COVID-related mistakes and dishonesty that destroyed jobs, affected the economy, and delayed the education of millions of children Dr. Scott Atlas discusses his recent article on rebuilding trust in the institutions, saying those institutions - including the CDC - have the burden of proving they are trustworthy. That can only happen, he says, if changes are made in multiple parts of the public health process.Scott W. Atlas, M.D., is a senior fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution; co-director of the Global Liberty Institute; former advisor to the president and member, White House Coronavirus Task Force; and author of “A Plague Upon Our House: My Fight at the Trump White House to Stop COVID From Destroying America”https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2023/10/30/todays_public_health_emergency_restoring_trust_with_seven_steps_149983.html
Daily Signal editor/reporter Tyler O'Neil comments on the news that the American Accountability Foundation is being audited by the IRS. This comes after a US Senator, Sheldon Whitehouse, publicly called for the group to be targeted after opposing multiple Biden nominees for apppinted offices.https://www.dailysignal.com/2023/11/06/irs-targets-conservative-group-exposing-biden-admin/ This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis* Thumbnail image is from the IRS letter to the AAF, notifying them of the audit
As a follow up to last week's preview of the third GOP Presidential debate, host Mike Ferguson reacts to what the candidates had to say and where the campaign goes from here.Note: One of the candidates, Senator Tim Scott, has since dropped out of the race.* Thumbnail image courtesy of NBC News Channel
Karla Jones, the Senior Federalism and International Relations Task Force director for the American Legislative Exchange Council, comments on the use of resultions and other statements from state and local governments that declare support for Israel. She discusses why she thinks those resolutions matter in Washington, DC. Jones also reacts to the rise of antisemitism both on US college campuses and in many other areas around the country and comments on what role the US should (and shouldn't) have in Israel's war against the Hamas terrorist group and its backers.
Dr. Merrill Matthews from the Institute for Policy Innovation discusses his recent article published in The Hill. That piece highlights the increasing number of "detransitioners" who regret the treatment, including surgeries, that altered their bodies as part of "transitioning" their gender identity.https://thehill.com/opinion/4284777-matthews-here-come-the-gender-detransitioner-lawsuits/
Around the country, courts are hearing challenges to something most of us take for granted: the ability to block trolls from annoying you on social media. The reason it's become a legal controversy is that some elected officials have done that and, as a result, they are accused of stopping constituents' ability to speak to government. Attorney Gary Lawkowski from the Dhillon Law Group explains what the courts are addressing and why it matters.
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the state of the Republican campaign for president and what each candidate should focus on.
Casey Harper, Washington DC Bureau Chief, discusses his recent article on the likelihood of US air to Gaza going to Hamas. The discussion also covers the overall approach to foreign aid the US currently uses.
This is a previously broadcast segmentWorld magazine writer Jerry Bowyer argues that part of a healthy life is pursuit of truth and being willing to know when to NOT engage in cultural and political conflicts of the day.
This is a previously aired segmentIan Prior, author of Parents of the World, Unite!, discusses the effort to push back against a coordinated effort to silence conservative voices in public school policy. The debate in Loudon County, VA highlighted the use of public schools to indoctrinate children into leftist mindsets in addition to (or as opposed to) just educating them.
This segment is from a previous programDevin Watkins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute discusses a big-picture legal case addressing what's called the "Chevron deference doctrine". The case involves requirements forcing commercial fishing businesses to pay for monitoring of their business.Chevron basically says that when regulations are in dispute, courts must defer to how bureaucracy defines them
This is a previously aired segmentSgt Betsy Brantner Smith from the National Police Association responds to the recent headlines focused on the death of Trye Nichols at the hands of police officers, who were criminally charged in connection with the killing. She also assesses the state of law enforcement in the country and the role police should have in communities.
The Heritage Foundation's Jake Denton discusses their recent op-ed about the US' official approach to artificial intelligence technology. While the Biden Admininstration prefers a cooperative approach with China and other nations, Denton says we should look at China as a competitor and not a partner because of the influence AI will have on the entire world.
The New Civil Liberties Alliance has contributed an amicus brief in a lawsuit against the State of New York. The case challenges a state law that requires social media platforms to identify and address "hate speech" on their platforms. NCLA attorney Kaitlyn Schiraldi describes the case, why they think the law shoudl be overturned, and how government should (and should not) be involved in what's said on social media.
Bankrate.com Senior Analyst Ted Rossman examines the results of a financial survey about the way Americans are adjusting to inflation and other economic changes when making holiday plans. The survey found that inflation is affecting how we are planning to spend money but it's not necessarily decreasing travel plans.https://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/survey-holiday-travel/
Craig Deluz, who is both a Congressional candidate in California and a part of Project 21, reacts to the support some Black Lives Matter groups expressed for the Hamas attacks on Israel. Project 21 is the nation's largest network of black conservatives.* thumbnail is a screenshot of a pro-Hamas/pro-Palestine social media post by a BLM group
First Liberty's Danielle Runyan discusses a case they are working on that involved a military servicemember who has been reprimanded for expressing his opinion. Jace Yarbrough offered his faith-based opinions on some issues affecting the military at a private event honoring a retiring colleague.Ms Runyan is part of First Liberty's Military Practice Group
John Tillman, CEO of the American Culture Project, argues that a return to free market principles would improve many of the challenges we face today in the US. These include inflation, workforce/labor disputes, debt, and economic growth.
Heritage Action's Ryan Walker assesses the recent comments of Homeland Security Secretary Alajandro Mayorkas about extending the construction of a wall along the southern US border. Walker argues that the Biden Administration is not actually in favor of completing the wall that was begun under the Trump Administration but, rather, is dealing with a court ruling that went against the attempt to use border wall funds in a different way.
Speech First's Cherise Trump (no relation to the former president) reacts to the almost immediate protest/rally response from so many young Americans, specifically on college and university campuses, in favor of Hamas' attack on Israel and against Israel's defense of her land citizens. While some students and other activists say the rally is in support of Palestine, others stated specific support for Hamas' terrorist attacks on the nation.Over 30 student groups on Harvard's campus alone signed on to a statement in opposition to Israel's response to the terrorist attacks on the country.Trump discusses bias in the Academy that encourages this kind of thinking and suppresses actual dialogue between those with opposing views on the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
Former Congresswoman Ann Marie Buerkle (R-NY) critiques the lack of progress Congress is making in reducing the cost of health care in America. Buerkle, who is also a nurse and a former Commissioner on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, also offers suggestions on how to reduce costs in some areas, particularly prescription medicines.
Mike O'Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation provides an overview of some key cases the US Supreme Court selected for review for the justices' next session. He also discusses how rulings in some of the cases could affect the nation.
Mark Miller from Pacific Legal Foundation discusses the push for rent control across the country and some efforts to repeal those rules. He responds to arguments that rent control rules help keep housing affordable, particulalry for the working class.
Former Congressman Bob Barr (R-GA) has been through tumultuous times in the Capitol. He was, after all, one of the House Managers of the Impeachment of President Bill Clinton. In this discussion, he reacts to the ouster of Speaker Kevin McCarthy from that office by all House Democrats and eight Republicans. Barr also offers advice for the GOP Caucus on how to put a coherent gameplan together from this point.* This segment originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis
Dr. Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (CFACT) comments on the State of California's lawsuit against multiple oil companies and a trade group. The claim is that their production of petroleum is to blame for a varierty of environmental and economic problems. Cohen responds to the claims and argues that bad policy in California is responsible for their problems.
RedState.com writer Mike Miller discusses a recent RealClearPolitics.com survey that asked voters about freedom of speech and, in some ways, personal freedom overall. The survey shows that a surprising percentage of Americans say there's too much freedom of speech, especially on social media. While self-described Democratic voters are more likely than others to say government should do more to hinder speech they find problematic, sizeable percentages of Independent and Republican voters agreed with that premise.
American Firearms Association president Chris Dorr assesses the announcement that President Biden has established a Presidential Office of Gun Violence Prevention. In his view, the office is just another effort by the Administration to push gun control legislation that's unconstotutional.* this conversation originially airs on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis.
A last-minute deal in Congress keeps the federal government functioning for the time being. The spending plan passed shortly after this conversation occured keeps the proverbial lights on for another 45 days. Bankrate.com senior analyst Mark Hamrick discusses the effect the instability in Congress can have on other aspects of the economy. This isn't the first time a government shutdown has been a risk and even though another short term shutdown isn't likely to be catastrophic, Hamrick points out that the runaway debt and deficits that are not being fixed is unsustainable.
The Heartland Institute's Samantha Fillmore takes note of the rising number of Covid infections being reported and recalls the authoritarian reaction to the illness over the past few years. In many states, state law allows governors to act unilaterally - or allow local office holders - to restrict individual freedoms.Fillmore argues that pressure should be put on state lawmakers to reform the laws that allow governors to declare emergencies and allow the same thing to happen again.
The competition for the GOP's presidential nomination moves into the next phase of the campaign following the second debate. In this discussion, FreeThePeople.org writer Dr. Aaron Pomerantz discusses his recent article challenging the party and the candidates on what they are bringing to our national discussion. In other words, what do they stand FOR?Here's the article: https://freethepeople.org/the-republican-party-doesnt-stand-for-anything/* image courtesy of FreeThePeople.org
The R Street Institute's James Wallner explains how our national government has gotten to the point - again - where funding to run government operations could expire and cause a partial shutdown. He also discusses how a shutdown would affect most Americans.
Remnants of the Green New Deal ended up in the Inflation Reducation Act. Among those are incentives for electric vehicle production. The Biden Administration is adding to those incentives with a push for vehicle mandates that, eventually, will make it difficult to produce gas combustion engines in compliance with increased fuel efficiency and other standards. In this discussion, Phil Kerpen from American Commitment argues that the mandates and incentives are not only about which vehicles are on the road. He believes that are also about which vehicles we'll eventually be allowed to buy and that could be part of a bigger push for more control over our lives as part of an environmental, big-government agenda.
Earlier this month, New Mexico Gov Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a public health emergency in part of her state. The emergency she declared claimed gun violence was the health emergency and then she cited that declaration as the basis of an executive order to suspend the right to keep and bear arms in the affected area.Tom Knighton from BearingArms.com responds to the decision, which was quickly struck down by a judge, and discusses the recent trend of suspending rights in the name of dealing with an emergency.
John Tamny, president of the Parkview Institute and editor or RealClearMarkets.com, discusses the possibility of health and/or elected officials trying to bring back Covid-era lockdowns, restrictions, and mandates. He argues for noncompliance with any orders, and there have been some issued in recent months.Tamny also argues that the use of government force during declared emergenies is counterproductive.
Former Congressman Bob Barr (R-GA) was a House manager in the impeachment of President Bill Clinton. In this converstion, he assesses the decision to move forward with an impeachment inquiry of President Joe Biden, explains why he feels is is justified, and offers advice to Congress on how to handle the upcoming events.
In a new short documentary, the Heritage Foundation - through their Daily Signal news outlet - tells the story of the Tambunga family in Texas. They lost Maria and Amelia, a grandmother and granddaughter, in a car wreck caused by a human trafficking smuggler. The smuggler had crossed the southern border and was being pursued by local police.Heritage's Lora Reiss discusses the video, the story being told, and the policies allowing these risks to develop in the US.https://www.dailysignal.com/2023/09/11/killed-human-smuggler-mother-grandfather-mourn-death-family-lost-border-crisis/
William and Mary University professor Chris Freiman argues that, at least for many people, less political engagement can be better for them, their families, and their community. He's the author of the book Why It's OK To Ignore Politics.
Former Utah State Representative Eric Hutchings discusses his state's adoption of a "clean slate" law to automatically expunge some criminal convictions from offenders' records. He explains why he hopes this approach will reduce crime by allowing more opportunities for some convicts over time.
Gretchen Smith, founder and CEO of Code of Vets, explains the non profit's mission to help veterans who are struggling after their time in uniform ends. The organization's help ranges from providing financial assistance to pay utility and rent, to providing help for life obstacles like car repairs, to helping vets navigate health care and other systems. The group usually accomplishes the task of vetting the person in need, assessing the need, raising the funds on social media, and delivering the assistance within a day or two.
CodeOfVets.com
Gumption. Entrepreneurial thinking.
Entrepreneur, business consultant, and author Clifton Taulbert (Once Upon A Time When We Were Colored, Who Owns The Icehouse?) offers a perspective on how the disciplines and mindsets of business and entrepreneurialsm can lead to personal success and the ability to overcome systemic obstacles.
Mark Mix from the Right To Work Foundation discusses the debate over labor unions, worker freedom , and right to work laws around the country.
American Conservative magazine writer Frank DeVito discusses the key points of his recent article, Not On Their Terms. The op-ed focuses on how important terms and definitions are in the debates. For example: Devito argues that "gender affirming care" should not be accepted as a valid term. Instead, something like "altering healthy bodies" is more accurate and doesn't cede any intellectual space in the discussion.https://www.theamericanconservative.com/not-on-their-terms/* Image courtesy of The American Conservative
Former police chief Joel Shults discusses his article written for the National Police Association's blog that promotes the use of "less lethal" weapons when possible. He explains what that means, why more options should be available, and why "less lethal" options aren't always the right choice for an officer.https://nationalpolice.org/main/less-lethal-options-can-save-lives/
Mark Schmitz, father of Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, discusses his frustration with the lack of information he and other Gold Star Families are getting from the Biden Administration and the US military ragarding the 2021 bombing that claimed the lives of 13 US military personnel.Lace Corporal Jared Schmitz was among this killed. This conversation was recorded as Mark Schmitz was preparing to testify at a US House hearing that is investigating the decisions and events that led to the failures and loss of life.* image courtesy of CSPAN
Bankrate.com's Sarah Foster reviews the results of a survey about attitudes toward forgiveness of student loan debt. While the US Supreme Court ruled President Biden's unilateral plan unconstitutional, the ruling does not stop Congress from addressing the outstanding debt through forgiveness or any other approach.
The Center For Equal Opportunity's Devon Westhill looks ahead to how higher education can still work to provide opportunities for those in underserved communities without making race a factor. Westhill agrees with the recent US Supreme Court ruling that bans the use of race in the admissions process.
Host Mike Ferguson gives a brief overview of the recent Republican presidential debate held in Milwaukee.
The Heritage Foundation's James Bacon argues that the "administrative state" - bureaucrats in government - have become so powerful that they can affect or even stop policy agendas of presidents. Bacon explains how these unelected positions have become so strong and why he says reforms have to be made to put the authority back in the hands of the elected.
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/restoring-america/courage-strength-optimism/dislodging-the-real-threat-to-democracy-the-administrative-state
Dr. Miriam Grossman is a child psychologist. Her new book, Lost In Trans-Nation, challenges some of the prevailing political, cultural, philosophical, and even medical trends and narratives regarding gender dysphoria and "transgender" issues. Her argument is that biological realities should be reaffirmed, not gender or sexual identifies that conflict with the body.
Dr Devid Beito from the Independent Institute discusses the findings for his new book, The New Deal's War On The Bill Of Rights. Beito compares the reverence many, especially on today's Left, have for Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal with the immediate and long-lasting effect that law had/has on government's respect for our individual rights.
Tirzah Duren from the American Consumer Institute provides an update on the realities of inflation in America right now - especially regarding how it's affecting food prices. Duren points to some federal policies that are moving inflation higher through bad incentives that limit free market economics.
Over 100,000 signatures support the Native American Guardians Association's effort to convince the owners of the Washington Commanders to returnt the football teams' name back to the Redskins. What surprised many people is that NAGA is a Native American advocacy group that says team names, like Redskins and Indians, should be used to honor those communities.
NAGA's Bill Diekman argues that removing the names and logos, even as an effort to be culturally sensitive, is actually erasing references to his culture.
Former North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory is now the national co-chair of No Labels. That organization seeks is working to build a political movement outside of the two dominant parties that combines perspectives from both the Left and the Right. He discusses the current polarization in our politics and the dissatisfaction surveys indicte voters have with both parties right now.
Former North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory is now the national co-chair of No Labels. That organization seeks is working to build a political movement outside of the two dominant parties that combines perspectives from both the Left and the Right. He discusses the current polarization in our politics and the dissatisfaction surveys indicte voters have with both parties right now.
Given the intense news coverage of Donald Trump's legal situations, the other Republican candidates for President are not getting as much coverage. Host Mike Ferguson provides a brief update on those candidates and offers thoughts on the possibility that Trump may not participate in the first Republican presidential debate.
Chris Chmielenski, Vice President of Numbers USA, discusses recent survey results indicating that President Joe Biden is losing support from Hispanic/Latino voters. The reason for that may surprise some people in that the reason for that includes his administration's failure to secure the southern US border.
Dr. Marion Mass, co-founder of Practicing Physicians of America and a fellow at the Independent Women's Forum, critiques the typical system used to deliver prescription drugs to consumers in the US. She focuses on prescription benefit managers (PBMs) and their relationships with other parts of the system. Mass explains why she believes the system incentivizes kickbacks drives up costs, and doesn't allow market pressures to hold prices down.
Dr Everett Piper, in a recent Washington Times opinion column, challenges us with a question: how will we react if government takes the same approach to the next viral outbreak - whatever that is - as it did with COVID. He's referring to the shutdowns stay at home orders, mask orders, vaccine mandates, and other restrictions in the name of stopping the COVID virus. Dr Piper argues that personal freedom should be prioritized over these measures.
CNET.com's Nick Wolny assesses how high inflation and high interest rates are affecting back to school shopping - and the impact that's having on many household budgets - this year. The discussion also includes advice on how to get the best deal on higg-dollar items like electronics.
Former Virginia Deputy Attorney General Ken Davis comments on the Departmant of Energy's rule that bans incandescent light bulbs in the US. As of August 1st, it became illegal - by regulation - to manufacture or sell the traditional bulbs. The Biden Administration says the rule is needed as part of new efficiency standards. Davis argues the new regulations are government overreach.
This conversation happened on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis.
The Heritage Foundation's Emma Waters discusses multiple policy and cultural issues that she says contribute to human trafficking. She also addresses some myths that are part of the discussion. The contributing issues include the unsecured southern US border, illicit use of social media by predators, the growth of demand for pornography, and the number of broken families.
Phil Kerpen from American Commitment discusses the results of a new survey they commissioned that shows older Americans believe the cost of medications will go up. That's despite promises made by supporters of the "Inflation Reducation Act", who said the Act would reduce costs.
Devin Watkins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute comments on a case before the US Supreme Court involving regulations on commercial fishing businesses in the Northeast. The case challenges requirements that administrative agencies put on the businesses requiring them to pay for monitors to watch them to ensure compliance.
The case challenges the "Chevron Standard" in law.
Professor Andrew Cohen of Georgia State University comments on the tribalistic division we are seeing in our culture over controversial topics. Those include politics and cultural issues. This discussion covers the ways those on different sides of these divides can reach a common understanding, even in disagreement, and why Dr. Cohen believes that's important to our country and culture.
Scott Huesing from Save The Brave discusses their mission to prevent suicide among military veterans. This converstion happened during his cross country ride to raise awareness of the tragedy and to promote their work to offer resources to veterans who are struggling.
SaveTheBrave.org * Thumbnail image courtesy of Save The Brave
Government regulations are affecting the way faith-based hospitals are allowed to operate. Some argue that proposed regulations from the Biden Administration could violate freedom of religion of medical professionals. Chris Faddis, President of Solidarity HealthShare, addresses the concerns and explains why some healthcare facilities and insurance providers are concerned about the rules.
A recent court ruling blocks the Securities and Exchange Commission's effort to regulate the sale of cryptocurrency in a similar way stocks and other security products are regulated. The Competitive Enterprise Institute's John Berlau explains the decision and how it affects crypto sellers and users, and why he agrees with the ruling.
Daily Signal White House Correspondent Fred Lucas describes changes coming to the media covering the White House. The changes, Lucas says, affect conservative media more than other news sources. As a result of the new policies, Lucas' credentials are being downgraded, which could affect his ability to cover the newsmakers in the White House. He also discusses the larger picture of government officials preferring some media outlets over others when it comes to allowing full access.
Daily Wire reporter Zach Jewell explains the details of a bill moving through the Michigan Legislature that would criminalize certain speech under the guise of combating "hate speech". The bill, if passed into law, would allow prosectution for speech that causes someone to feel threatened or harrassed. Critics say the idea could allow liberal prosecutors to file charges subjectively when they oppose political or cultural statements.
Kenny Xu, president of Color Us United, reacts to the Supreme Court's ruling that bans the use of race in college and university admissions. Xu discusses why he agrees with the ruling and how he hopes the change affects the future of the nation.
Xu's new book is School Of Woke.
A Twitter dispute between two Missouri lawmakers led to a larger discussion over how those in need should be helped and what the role of government shou;d (and should not be). State Representative Doug Richey, who is also a pastor, was criticized by a Democratic colleague after he posted a compliment to his youth group after they served thousands of meals to those in need in their community.
Pacific Legal Foundation's Caleb Kruchknberg breaks down what the US Supreme Court decided - and didn't decide - in its ruling that stuck down the Biden Administration's program to forgive billions of dollards in student loan debt.
Gabe Nadales from Our America assesses the uptick in violent crime in many US cities and some of the criminal justice reforms being proposed and tried to address it.
Professor Derek Muller from the University of Iowa assesses the US Supreme Court's Moore vs Harper decision. That decision upheld the role of courts in the process to draw district lines. At issue was a dispute over whether the North Carolina Supreme Court can check the State Legislature's authority to draw congressional and state legislative districts.
RedState.com writer Jeff Charles reacts to the Southern Poverty Law Center's addition of Moms For Liberty (and other conservative groups) to their list of "hate groups". While SPLC is a private non profit group, published reports say they regularly meet with the Biden Administration to consult the Administration on policy.
Charles discusses why this could lead to suppressed speech by those who disagree with the government and why he does not believe the SPLC should be considered a credible organization.
Recorded right before it debuted in theaters around the country, this conversation with Matt Osborne from Operation Underground Railroad (OUR Rescue) describes the work they do and how that resulted in creation of Sound of Freedom, starring Jim Caviezel.
The film is based on true events and spotlights the growing child trafficking industry.
Bethany Mandel, author of the Heroes Of Liberty childrens' book series and coauthor of the new book, Stolen Youth, discusses the concerns she and many others have about falling civics test scores in the US. She says the trend has educational, cultural, and policy conseqences in the future.
Jeremy Dyes from the First Liberty Institute reflects on the effect of the US Supreme Court's "Coach Kennedy" religious freedom case. That ruling is now one year old and Dyes says Americans are now more free than we were before, at least when it comes to religious freedom.
The discussion also includes what's next in the debate over religious freedom, especially in public life.
A fight in New York City reignites the debate over using force to protect yourself and others. Daniel Penny subdued Jordan Neeley in a subway after he and witnesses say Neeley was threatening people. Protesters and prosecutors say the maneuver Penny used to subdue Neeley was a choke hold and caused hit death illegally. Daniel Penny has been indicted in the case.
Sgt Betsy Brantner Smith from the National Police Association explains some basics about self defense, the law and what to expect if you are in the position to have to defend someone.
Tammy Kocher from Minnesota-based New Life Family Services discusses how things have changed for their pregnancy resource centers since the US Supreme Court overturned Roe vs Wade in 2022. The discussion includes changes in the law and in the safety of their centers, employees, and clients.
Bob Hoge from RedState.com explains a proposed law in California that would, if passed, criminalize refusal of parents to "affirm" a child's "gender identity". Hoge explains why he believes the bill attempts to include opposition to trans ideology in parenting to the list of child abuse and child welfare definitions in the state.
Ben Lieberman from the Competitive Enterprise Institute updates us on the Biden Administration's efforts to reduce the number of gas stoves being used in the US. Among the reasons two federal agencies are claiming as reasons to phase out gas cooking are climate change activism and claims that gas stoves are unhealthy. Liberman examines and addresses the claims.
Bankrate.com analyst Greg McBride explains what the latest federal reserve interest rate hike means to American households. He also offers advice on how to adjust your personal finances in response to what's happended and what's likely to happen in the future.
Landmark Legal Foundation's Mike O'Neil provides an explanation of the federal accusations against former Donald Trump in the latest indictment of the former president.
The Heritage Foundation's Hans Von Spakovsky discusses trends in law schools around the country that he says is promoting radical leftism in law schools. The conversation also examines the possible consequences that could lead to in society.
Maddie Dermon from the Freedom Foundation discusses the "Schools In Transition" material being supported by, among others, the National Education Association. Dermon says the publication is being used to promote transgender ideology to children, regardless of what the parents believe or want.
Dean Clancy from Americans For Prosperity addresses the continuing rise in the cost of health care in America. He discusses why the costs have gone up and explores possible solutions to hep keep the costs down without sacrificing quality.
The Daily Signal's Tyler O'Neil discusses recent actions by the Southern Poverty Law Center. The SPLC added conservative adctivist group Moms 4 Liberty to their list of "hate groups". The conversaton examines how the SPLC regularly equates parental rights and other conservative groups with hate groups like the KKK.
Brad Wilcox from the Institute for Family Studies looks at recent studies showing a trend regarding political and cultural beliefs. The data indicates that boys and young men are increasingly conservative while girls and young women are increasingly more liberal. Wilcox discusses the possible reasons for the change and the societal impacts this cold have,
Thea Showmake from HomeSchoolReadyOrNot.com responds to an article in the Washington Post that is critical of homeschooling. The article argues that homeschooling is losing support and participation around the country.
Rich Marianos is a former assistant director of the ATF and warns about threats to the nation through Chinese-made vaping products. Marianos says that, in addition to the health problems caused by the products, the devices are connected to organized crime and target underage users.
Shortly after President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy announce a spending agreement that suspends the nation's "debt ceiling", several conservative members of Congress objected. Eventually, the deal was passed. In this discussion, Americans For Limited Government's Rick Manning explains what is in the deal and what the possible consequences of it are.
Tommy Valentine from Catholic Vote explains why they are mobilizing a campaign against the Los Angeles Dodgers in response to their decision to honor "The Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence", which mocks Catholic imagery as part of their LGBT activism.
- image from the Sisters of perpetual Indulgence website.
Jessica Melugin from the Competititve Enterprise Institute responds to US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy's announcment that a mental health advisory has been issued, warning parents that time on social media could be hurting the mental health of children.
The Biden Administration also announced the formation of a task formed to, among other things, suggest regulations on social media and other technology platforms.
RedState.com writer Jerry Wilson assesses the impact Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has and could have in the GOP race for president.
- Image courtesy of @RonDeSantis on Twitter.
Dr. Samuel Gregg, an economist with the American Institute for Economic Research, assesses the standoff between President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy over the terms of raising the US debt ceiling.
Project 21 Ambassador Sonia Morris explains why she and some other black conservatives take issue with President Joe Biden's use of a commencement address at Howard University to talk about white supremacy. Critics accuse the President of using the comments to inject politics into the commencement.
Mark Mix from the National Right to Work Foundation reacts to the news that workers in several Starbucks are moving to decertify the unions that were recently voted into place.
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the state of the GOP race for president with the likely addition of Governor Ron DeSantis to the list of candidates.
- this interview aired in May 2023, before DeSantis' entry into the race
James Massa, CEO of Numbers USA, explains what changes are now in place with the expiration of the use of Title 42 to address illegal immigration.
Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Daniel Woislaw describes a horrifying case in Massachusetts where police and state officers showed up at a family's home and demanded they hand over their children or face arrest. In this case, neither the family services officials nor the police had a court order.
Woislaw explains the chain of events that led to the encounter and the four-month legal fight that ensued.
Writer Jeffrey Lord discusses his American Spectator article, "The Puzzling Pro-Lifers Who Harm The Cause". In that piece, he takes issue with activists who, he believes, don't accept incremental progress in pro-life policy.
RedState.com Deputy Managing Editor Susie Moore, who is also an attorney, explains the legalities of the civil rulings against Donald Trump. This case was brought by writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexual assault and defamation.
Dan Morenoff from the American Civil Rights Project assesses the proposal to issue reparations to black Americans who live in California. He describes the ideas being debated, the potential costs, and the effect those could have on both the state and the national discussion.
Washington Examiner political reporter Ryan King explains the debate over the debates. Specifically, the conflict over the upcoming RNC-sponsored debates and why Donald Trump threatened to not participate. King explains the points of contention and how they could affect the overall nomination process. The conversation includes a look at both major political parties.
Brownstone Insitute fellow Tom Harrington discusses the arguments he makes in his new book: The Treason Of the Experts: COVID And The Credentialed Class. Harrington looks at the influence - even control - that was ceded to "experts" during the era of Covid-19 shutdowns. He argues that the "credentialied class": academics, medical professionals, policy and political figures, were allowed to violate individual rights without being questioned.
Mattias Gugel from the National Taxpayers Union describes how some proposed paid family leave policies would work if enacted into law. He also assesses how those would affect workers and employers and what the unintended consequences of the policies could be.
The R Street Institute's Adam Thierer offers a perspective on the role artificial intelligence is having in the economy and workplace. The discussion looks at worries many have about AI replacing and leaving workers behind.
Curt Mills from The American Conservative reacts to the news that both Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon were taken off the air at FOX News and CNN , respectively. The conversation looks at the influence they, especially Carlson, have on the national discussion of politics, policy, and culture.
First Liberty Institute's Keisha Russell discusses a legal case in Utah that involved the removal of the Bible from a public school library in the David School District. That happened in response to a complaint filed, saying the Bible contains objectionable material. The discussion includes elements of religious freedom and the debate over age-appropriate materials in public schools.
Bankrate.com's Mark Hamrick assesses the way the economy is affecting personal finances, particularly savings, in the US. He also explains why online banking for savings could be a better options than other options.
Ethan Peck from the Free Enterprise Project discusses concerns about Chinese influence on US businesses. He argues that the nation could be leveraging their financial influence to push businesses into taking actions that run counter to America's interests.
Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL) provides an update on several current issues being debated in Washington, The discussion includes illegal immigration/border security, a legislative proposal to deal with Chinese "dumping" of some products in the US markets in order to disrupt markets, and the debate over the federal debt ceiling and federal spending. This conversation is courtesy of NewsTalk STL in St. Louis, MO.* thumbnail image from Rep. Bost's Facebook page
Jean Evans with the American Federation for Children assesses the state of school choice throughout the nation.
Jonathan Williams from the American Legislative Exchange Council discusses their new Rich States, Poor States ranking of economic policy and prosperity. He explains the measurements they used to determine which states are doing the best - and worst.
Erin Walsh from the Heritage Foundation comments on the recent news that the Chinese government (run by the Chinese Communist Party) is operating multiple stealth pseudo-police operations around the US. These operations worked to enforce CCP policies and intimidation on Chinese citizens and expatriates to quash dissent.
Former Congressman Bob Barr (R-GA) discusses the push for more gun control laws after tragedies like those in Louisville, Nashville, Uvalde, and in other cities.
Sheena Meade, CEO of the Clean Slate Initiative, discusses part of the debate over criminal justice reform dealing with criminal records. A "Clean Slate" law would automatically expunge many convictions from criminal records after a set number of years of the person not having any further criminal problems.
Able Americans Project director Melissa Ortiz responds to conservative commentator Candace Owens' recent comments about a disabled model in advertising. In a podcast, Owens said she doesn't want to see people in wheelchairs in their underwear and grouped that style of advertising with woke virtue signaling.In this segment, Ortiz discusses her recent USA Today oped:https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/voices/2023/04/06/candace-owens-skims-disability-wheelchair-comments-wrong/11578157002/
RedState.com writer Jeff Charles reacts to recent news that the Biden Administration is employing a strategy of enlisting social media "influencers" to win support for its policy goals and also for Democratic campaigns.
Timothy Pearce from the Daily Wire discusses a new research study about gender dysforia and "transitioning" children. The research says some new data shows more parents report a decline in mental health of children who "transitioned".
Ethan Blevins from the Pacific Legal Foundation discusses a legal case in Minnesota that involved local housing codes. After being cited for poor living conditions in rental properties some landlords sued, arguing that the cost of meeting the housing code standards would result in pricing poor renters out of their homes.
Host Mike Ferguson comments on the indictment of Donald Trump on dozens of financial criminal charges. Many of the charges stem from payments made to porn star "Stormy Daniels".The segment looks at the recent history of the use of the justice system to pursue political goals.* original air date April 8-9, 2023
Mike O'Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation discusses the indictment of former President Donald Trump in New York City. Air date April 8-9th, 2023. Photo by Gage Skidmore, courtesy of Wikimedia commons
Gabe Nadales from Our America responds to a new Wall Street Journal survey that says fewer Americans consider patriotism, religion, and community to be priorities in their lives.
Dan Stein from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) assesses recent developments in both illegal immigration and in the policy debates within the US about how to deal with it.
Policy makers from both sides of the partisan divide are calling for regulation on artificial intelligence technology.The development of AI has educational, economic, governmental, and health implications and the technology is growing as a fast rate. In this discussion, the R Street Institute's Shoshana Weissmann discusses the rush to regulate and cautions against being reckless in limiting how AI can develop.
After an attack on a Christian school in Nashville this past week, the national response quickly turned into debates over guns, gay and trans issues, and mental health. In this segment, Herzog Foundation president Darrell Jones discusses the affect the attack could and likely will have on Christian education in American in the years ahead.The conversation includes the reasons why Christian schools (and other organizations) are sometimes targeted, the realities of security at all schools - especially private ones - and the response from people of faith.
Former US Senator Jim Talent (R-MO) is now the chairman of the Ronald Reagan Institute's National Leadership Council. In this discussion, he assesses the ongoing Russian offensive against Ukraine, the influence China could have on the warm and what - if any - interest the US has in the situation.
If there is a "ground zero" of the debate over activist public schools, you could argue that it's Loudoun County, Virginia. That's where many parents pushed back against a very left-of-center school board to change policies and, they say, pull the school system back from indoctrination and move it towards focusing on objective education. That conflict sparked similar pushbacks around the country.Ian Prior was/is part of that fight. He is the executive director of Fight For Schools. His new book, Parents Of The World Unite: How To Save Our Schools From The Left's Radical Agenda, Prior provides what he calls "the winning strategies for successfully fighting a radical woke agenda in your kids’ schools."https://www.amazon.com/Parents-World-Unite-Schools-Radical/dp/1546004440
President Biden issued his first veto over the past week. It was against a Congressional resolution dealing with what's known as ESG in finances. Basically, the resolution would have returned federal rules on managing investments to require making maximizing returns the goal. Under the Biden Administration, ESG (environmental, social, and governance) priorites can also be considered, meaning that pension or other investment fund managers can invest yor savings with activism in mind.Richard Morrison from the Competitive Enterprise Institute and the Free The Economy podcast explains how the change could affect your investments.
After the contentious hearings by a US House committee this past week, many lawmakers showed rare bipartisan support for banning the Chinese-owned social media platform. The Heritage Foundation's Jake Denton agrees with that idea, both calling TikTok propaganda and citing the data being gathered by Bytedance (TikTok's parent company). He also objects to some of the content that, he says, is harming American youth.
Brownstone Institute writer Alan Lash discusses his recent article about the loss of trust toward medical professionals after the last few years. Lash wrote about the controversies related to COVID including mask orders and vaccine debates. The conversation expands into the broader consequences of an institution - medicine - losing trust from any significant portion of the public.https://brownstone.org/articles/can-we-still-trust-the-doctor/
Andrew Lautz from the National Taxpayers Union says the economics of controlling drug prices is complex and warns against mandates that cap those costs. Among the concerns is that a government limit on prices for consumers will likely slow down the development of new medicines.
Economist Peter Earle from the American Institute for Economic Research breaks down the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report to explain how inflation is affecting us all. He also offers some advice on how to understand the economic impact on our households in order to make good personal finance decisions.Earle also addresses the two recent bank failures and the concerns over the stability of our banking system.
Christian Post writer Brandon Showalter discusses his new book, coauthored with Jeff Myers, PhD, Exposing The Gender Lie.The conversation includes the ideology, medical claims, cultural, mental health, and familial aspects of the debate over "transgender" issues in America.https://www.christianpost.com/ebook/gender-lie/
World Magazine writer Jerry Bowyer discusses the need for us, whether we are activists, policy makers, or news consumers who just want to stay informed and involved in some way, to have the right mindset and pursuit of truth. Given the polarization, division, and tribalism that sometimes overwhelm us, Bowyer offers advice on sorting through what's true and false, important and trivial, and effective instead of needlessly confrontational.
Conservative thought leaders used to include Ronald Reagan, William F. Buckley, Jr, Thomas Sowell, Russell Kirk, and Barry Goldwater. Today, conservative influencers include Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Steve Bannon and Candace Owens.In 2023, is the conservative movement in America based on the same foundations and principles as it was in previous generations? The Russell Kirk Centrer's Jeff Nelson offers an assessment of the state of the movement at this point and offers his thoughts on where it should go from here.https://kirkcenter.org/
Dr. Julie Gatza, founder of the Florida Wellness Institute, offers advice on improving your nutrition, especially when snacking throughout the day. March is, among other things, National Nutrition Month.NaturesSources.com.To try a free sample of a digestive enzyme supplement she recommends, call 800.827.7656 ad use the promotional code RADIO.
Americans For Prosperity's Missouri State Director Jeremy Cady discusses a proposal in Missouri to restore the right to vote to most felons after they complete their sentences. Similar ideas are being debated (and have already been passed) in other states. He explains why he believes this aspect of criminal justice reform could reduce recidivism and improve community safety.
Washington Stand writer Ben Johnson reviews the role "fact checkers" have had in recent years, particularly on social media. He points out that many claims and opinions argued during the COVID that were removed due to "misinformation" turned out to be true. This ranges from debates over the effectiveness of vaccines and the origin of the virus.https://washingtonstand.com/commentary/the-lies-of-the-factcheckers
Project 21's David Lowery, who lives and works in Chicago, reacts to the primary election results that mean Lori Lightfoot's tenure as Mayor will soon be over. Lightfoot was elected four years ago with around 70% of the vote. In this year's primary, she received about 16%.Lowery compares her national profile - one hailed as a leader by the Left - and what he sees as the real effect of her policies on Chicagoans, particularly black and hispanic residents.* screenshot image courtesy of YouTube/Mayor Lightfoot channel
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the state of the conservative movement in America at this point.
Robert Romano from Americans for Limited Government discusses recent news that another federal agency agrees with the claim that the first strain of COVID that hit the US likely came from a Chinese virology lab.Romano explains why determining the origin of the virus is important from both a political and public health perspective.
Jon Schwepp, Policy Director for the American Principles Project, discusses a new survey they say shows that voters- especially conservative and independent voters - want to see Republican candidates focus on cultural issues. These include parental choice in education and opposing efforts to increase acceptance of "transgender" issues.
Public Interest Research Group's Kevin O'Reilly provides an update on the debate over "right to repair" laws, that allow consumers to have their electronics (or electronic parts of machinery, including farm equipment and cars) repaired by whomever they want. That's as opposed to the current situation where manufacturers often restrict access to the softwareused in the devices.
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the current state of the race for the Republican nomination for president in 2024.
Dr. Bonner Cohen from the National Center for Public Policy Research assesses the response to the train derailment in East Palestine, OH and how politics have become part of the discussion, along with emergency response, environmental worries, andeconomic concerns.
Hackers and other cyber criminals aren't the only concerns many people have about online security. Another concern that many have is the use of our private information by social media companies, web search sites, and businesses that conduct commerce online.The R Street Institute's Brandon Pugh updates us on the debate over what a national law about online security and privacy should look like.
Washington Times reporter Sean Salai analyzes new data about how current economic trends and world events are affecting America's small businesses. He also looks at how those factors are likely to affect the businesses in the near future.https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2023/feb/14/small-businesses-brace-reduced-consumer-demand/
As interest rates continue to go up, those with significant credit card debt could be hit hardest. Bankrate.com's Ted Rossman provides advice on how to lower the debt, especially for those with high interest cards, as part of your overall personal finance plan.
Chloe Cole, one of the country's best known "detransitioners", works with Do No Harm to stop the hormonal, chemical, and surgical treatments that are being done to children around the country.Chloe, who lives on the autism spectrum, began "genter transitioning" as a young teen and had a double mastectomy at the age of 15 and now regrets the decision. In this NewsTalk STL discussion, she recounts her journey, the harm it's caused her, and why she doesn't want other children to go through that.https://donoharmmedicine.org/
Thomas Buckley discusses his recent op-ed published by the Brownstone Institute about the way language is being used in today's political debates. He specifically looks at the use of "-denial" as a perjorative ("climate denier/denial", "science denier/denial", etc).Buckley examines the strategy of that approach, arguing that it's designed to end debate instead of convincing someone to chage their mind.https://brownstone.org/articles/denialism-a-woke-way-to-stifle-dissent/
Sgt. Betsy Smith from the National Police Association discusses the debate over law enforcement, police reform, and relationships between police and many communities around the country following the murder of Tyre Nichols by officers in Memphis.
Presidnet Biden is asking lawmakers and regulators to limit credit card late fees to eight dollars per month. He's also piusing to outlaw what he calls "junnk fees" on multiple things including ticket purchases, resorts, hotels, and other goods and services.The Competitive Enterprise Institute's John Berlau argues against the proposals, saying they would be bad for both consumers and the economy in general.https://cei.org/news_releases/cfpb-cap-on-credit-card-late-fees-price-controls-that-raise-cost-of-credit-for-everyone/
Responding to recent internal Disney meeting footage that shows writers and other creative-centric employees discussing their plans to include more LGBT themes in their content, the Catholic League produced a film of their own. Walt's Disenchanted Kingdom addresses the company's work to lobby against Florida legislation to keep sexual content out of public school classrooms and the stated desire to influence their viewers towards more acceptance of LGBT lifestyles and issues.Catholid League president Bill Donohue explains why they made the film and describes the affect the League hopes to have with it.
Corey DeAngelis from the American Federation for Children, provides an update on efforts to expand school choice around the country. He assesses the movement's momentum and the states most likely to adopt some form of school choice (or expand it).
Most of the country has long moved past COVID. Business shutdowns are over, mask mandates are mostly a thing of the past, and many people's lives have returned to pre-coronavirus normal. Heritage Action PAC's Carson Steelman addresses the President's announcement that he plans to end two national COVID emergency declarations in May. Congressional Republicans want those neded immediately.Steelman discusses the multiple effects the declarations are having on people, government policies, and commerce.
Te recent funeral of Tyre Nichols in Memphis became the latest national focal point of the debate over law enforcement and race in America.Philip Clay from Project 21 assesses the case, what it likely means to the national conversation and policy debates, and what he hopes changes.
Jeremy Dys from the First Liberty Institute provides an overview of some of their top court cases for 2023.The cases include one before the US Supreme Court about a former US Postal Service worker who was denied a religious accomodation with his schedule. Gerald Groff requested that he not work on Sundays in observance of his religious beliefs. Dys also discusses other cases before appealate courts, including the case of military personel who object to the Department of Defense's CoVID vaccine requirement. https://firstliberty.org/news/a-spring-full-of-major-court-battles/
Pacific Research Institute Senior Director of Education Lance Izumi discusses their new book, of which he's co-author, and the education issues addressed in it.The Great Parent Revolt is described as a set profiles or ordinary people who have challenged and defeated the most divisive doctrine to ever threaten America's children. These include Critical Race Theory.https://www.amazon.com/Great-Parent-Revolt-Grassroots-Fighting-ebook/dp/B0BSS3JKJP?asin=B0BSS3JKJP&revisionId=c43c42f5&format=1&depth=1
Pacific Legal Foundation attorney David Deerson explains their case before the US Supreme Court that will decide if governments can profit from property seized over delinquent property taxes.The case at hand is Tyler v. Hennepin County, where an elderly woman was unable to keep up with the property taxes on her condo. The local government seized the home, sold it, and kept all the proceeds even though that exceeded the amount of taxes due. Currently, this practice is legal in Minnesota.https://pacificlegal.org/case/mn_home_equity_theft/
Host Mike Ferguson assesses the recent news of classified documents being found in the personal homes and, in at least one case, priate offices of both Republican and Democratic office holders. The documents in question were found in the homes of former President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden - who had possession of the documents while not in elected office - and former Vice President Mike Pence.
RedState.com Deputy Managing Editor Kira Davis describes the ideas she offering in her book, Drawing Lines.Davis argues that there are limits to compromise when one side refuses to discuss or debate in good faith. In her view America's Left crosses the line from that and often relies on vitriol. From her book description on Amazon: "There are times for compromise and times to draw a line in the sand; the latter has arrived. It is time to draw our lines as Christians and Conservatives."
Ian Rowe, founder of the Vertex Partnership Academies in New York and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, discusses the lessson he describes in his new book, Agency.The book outlines what Rowe calls a four-point plan for all children to overcome the victimhood narrative. This includes a different approach to education as well as emphases on family, religion, and entrepreneurship.https://templetonpress.org/books/agency/https://www.vertexacademies.org/
Former Virginia Deputy Attorney General Ken Davis examines the recent controversy over the use of natural gas in homes and businesses. After a Biden appointee signaled a desire to phase out household and commercial use of gas stoves/ovens, the White House backtracked after a backlash. Davis believes the goal is still in place as part of the Administration's plans to "transition" the US energy sector away from fossil fuels and resources.
Reason Magazine Associate Editor Billy Binion looks back on the Republican debate over electing Kevin McCarthy to Speaker of the House. Morespecifically, he examines the debate over the debate itself. While many political pundits and insiders decried the opposition to McCarthy, which forced multiple votes, as embarassing, Binion says the debate was a healthy exercise for the process and hopes more debate/disagreement is encouraged.
Robert Romano, Vice President of Public Policy for Americans For Limited Government, assesses the nation's debt level and specifically the fact that the debt ceiling has been reached.Romano explains how a decision to raise the borrowing limit could affect American households and offers a perspective on how Congress and the President should address the spending that's led to the financial situation the country is now in.
Washington Times columnist and author, Dr. Everett Piper, discusses his recent article about adults who choose not to return to work. In addition to the economics of the situation, Piper assesses the cultural aspect of what he refers to as a "coddled culture" and why this hurt the individual as well as their families and communities.https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2023/jan/8/spoiled-adults-who-will-not-work-in-bidens-america/Dr. Piper's books:https://dreverettpiper.com/books/
Former Congressman Bob Barr (R-GA) assesses the recent drawn-out debate over electing Rep. Kevin McCarthy to be Speaker of the House.With Republicans holding a slim majority in the House, Barr explains why he believes the dissenting group of GOP House members were short sighted in their efforts. He then offers advice for Republicans to move forwrd with their agenda for the remainder of the year.
Townhall.com writer Jonathan Emord explains why he believes individual states should sue the Biden Administration, using the Guarentee Clause, to compel securing the southern border.
Washington Examiner Homeland Security Reporter Anna Giaritelli provides an update from El Paso, Texas on the situation at that part of the US southern borderwhen it comes to illegal immigration.Giaritelli explains how parts of El Paso were cleaned up prior to the President's visit and how the immigration issue is affecting the community there directly.
The Heritage Foundation's Jim Carafano, one of the nation's recognized foreign policy experts, discusses the ongoing Russian invation of Ukraine. He addresses the objections some have about the aid the US is sending to help the nation defend itself and eventually repel Russia.
Greg Teufel, founder of OGC Law, discusses a challenge to Pennsylannia's mail-in voting process that is befor ethe US Supreme Court. Teufel explains why this case could have ramifications across the nation.
Wayne Crews from the Competitive Enterprise Institute, provides details on the annual Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions publication issued by the Biden Administration. He explains how the Administration is using the publication as a policy-making strategy and also discusses some of the costs that could affect American households as a result of the new rules being issued.
The Daily Signal's Tyler O'Neil discusses his recent articles on the Biden Administration's use of the medical establish, including the CDC, to influence culture and education regarding debate over LGBT issues. Also discusses is Rachel Levine's call for social media companies to favor pro-trans perspectives over more traditional viewpoints.
Public Interest Legal Foundation President J. Christian Adams responds to the conversation on a previous program regarding rankied choice voting, otherwise known as instant runoff voting. PILF is against the idea.
Hans Von Spakovsky is the manager of the Heritage Foundation's Election Law Reform Initiative. He's also a former member of the Federal Elections Commission. After reviewing the Twitter Files, released by Elon Musk, Von Spakovsky argues that the social media platform's bias before, during, and after the 2020 elections is an in-kind contribution to the Biden campaign and says the FEC should investigate the actions as such.
Phil Kerpen from American Committment discusses the recently-passed omnibus spending plan at he last minute before a possible government shutdown.Kerpen believes the plan is too big, too expensive, and wasn't available to lawmakers early enough to allow them to review it properly.This conversation is from NewsTalk STL in St.Louis, MO.
Julian Adorney from the Foundatin for Economic Education argues against a trend of overprotecting children. Is critique of a "safetyist" mindset is that it doesn't allow for children to learn via mistakes (even painful ones) and that eventually leads to a risk-averse society that stimies creative thinking and innovation.https://mises.org/wire/want-protect-children-dont-embrace-safetyism
Paul Chesser from the National Legal and Policy Center explains why they are asking Meta (Facebook) shareholders demand the release of information related to the comapny's cooperation with government officials during the 2020 election cycle and beyond. Chesser says Facebook should be more transparent about how it made censorship and other decisions about bias against some viewpoints, not allowing them to remain published and banning some users based on their opinions.
Former Georgia State Representative Scot Turner, now the executive director of Eternal Vigilance Action, Inc, promotes reforming elections by using ranked choice voting - also known as instant runoff voting. This allows voters to rank candidates from most to least favorite. Example: your favorite candidate would be ranked 1, your next favorite candidate would be ranked 2, etc.
Bankrate.com analyst Greg McBride explains recent economic reports regarding jobs, unemployment, and inflation and what they indicate for the US economy. He also offers some basic advice on how to plan for 2023 when it comes to your personal finances.
Dr. Phil Magness from the American Institute For Economic Research provides an update on his research into how much government officials worked to suppress dissent against COVID restrictions, lockdowns, and mandates.The Freedom of Information Act-involved research focuses on Dr. Fancis Collins' and Dr. Anthony Fauci's work against the Great Barrington Declaration, which disagrees with the authoritarian approach to COVID that governments in the US took in response to the virus.
David L. Berstein's new book, Woke Antisemitism: How A Progressive Ideology Harms Jews, argues that "wokeness" supports antisemitism and other bias against Jewish people. In this conversation, he explains why he believes at least some of the current leftist ideology promotes racism and antisemitism.
James E. Lee from the Identity Theft Resource Center offers advice on spotting scams that target your personal and financial information and protecting both that information and your money.
Trauma specialist Julie Gandy Torres offers advice on prioritizing your mental health during the holiday season. The conversation includes discussions about stress and dealing with trauma.
The Daily Signal's Virginia Allen discusses the importance of the 303 Creative case before the US Supreme Court.While many view the case as a religious freedom case because the business owner doesn't want to create websites for same-sex weddings, Allen says the case is actually about the freedom of speech. More specifically, the freedom to not be forced by law to say something. The discussion also addresses the likely importance of the ruling nationally.
Dr. Everett Piper, author and Washington Times columnist, argues that the Republican Party should not "coronate" Donald Trump or any other candidate for president but, instead, welcome multiple candidates to compete with him. He explains why considering multiple candidates could be good for the party, the conservative movement, and the eventual nominee.
The ACLU's Nate Wesson explains why the organization is suing the Springfield, MA Police Department over their use of a surveillance camera during an investigation. The camera was posted on public property but there was no warrant issued, bringing up Fourth Amendment concerns.
Dr. Julie Gatza offers advice on how to protect your health - physical and emotional - during the holidays when social demands and business can be stressful and when the meals and treats can derail your fitness and health plan.
Sean Higgins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute explains the dispute between some labor unions and railroad/railway operators. In this case, Congress could be called on to override the union votes and impose the terms of the contract on both the employers and the workers.
Former US Ambassador and US Congressman Francis Rooney assesses the sitution in Ukraine as Russia's invation of the nation continues. He discusses the diplomatic challenges for the US and the possible effects the war - and decisions by US leaders - could have on the county.
Sheng Li from the New Civil Liberties Alliance discusses their lawsuit against the State of Massachusettes. The lawsuit accuses the State of covertly installing an app on Android phones in the state that tracked their locations in an effort to enable contact tracing. This was done as part of en effort to combat the spread of COVID-19.
SaveOnEnergy.com's Saltanat Bardileeva provides an outlook for the coming winter ultility bills, which are expected to be higher than in previous years. Lower energy supply, especially natural gas and oil, as well as inflation, are among the factors driving up costs.The discussion includes advice on how to reduce your utility costs without compromising safety in your home.
Terry Schilling from the American Principles Project argues that there is a political, policy, and cultural effort to "abolish" the traditional American family. He makes comparisons to governmental and cultural efforts from history that sounght to undermine the family as an institution.
FreeThePeople.org's Matt Kibbe, host of BlazeTV's "Kibbe On Liberty" assesses the failure of Republicans to win more seats in Congress during the 2022 Mid Term elections.Kibbe discusses the policy differences the GOP presented and failed to present as well as what messages voters around the country were sending as far as their priorities.
The Heritage Foundation's Emma Waters discusses the "Respect For Marriage Act" pased by Congress and the possible unintended consequences the bill (now law) could have. Concerns about the law include possible threats to religious freedom.
Bankrate.com analyst Sarah Foster descibes the results of a new survey that shows young families (and individuals) struggle more financially and emotionally than others when it comes to holiday spending. The discussion includes the current econoic conditions and typical expections for gift-giving and other spending.Foster also explains ways to prioritize personal finance needs while still enjoying the holidays.
John Berlau from the Competitive Enterprise Institute explains what happened with the FTX cryptocurrency exchange collapse.He also discusses what the situation could mean for investors, businesses, and public policy.
Jason Resendez from Consumers For Quality Care offers advice on knowing how effective your health insurance coverage is, what your rights are, and how to spot aspects of health care costs that can be avoiced. This includes "surprise billing" and other ways patients get billed unexpectedly.
Fred Lucas from the Daily Signal assesses theresults of the midterm elections. The discussion includes the messaging, the economy, and the partisanship involved.
David Huntsman from the Huntsman Institue for Mental Health and Heidi Arthur from the Ad Council discuss the new national campaign to lower social stigmas and other barriers to accessing mental health care in America.
Dr. Thomas Hogan from the American Institute for Economic Research reacts to the new CPI report showing that inflation, once again, continued to rise. He discusses the reasons for the increases, what consumers can expect regarding the impact on their finances, andsuggests ways to deal with the likely continued inflation increases.
Linda Chavez is the Chair of the Center for Equal Opportunity. She discusses the case before the US Supreme Court that challenges the use of race as a factor in college and university admissions.
The Daily Wire's Tim Meads comments on the debate caused by an editorial in The Atlantic.Professor Emily Oster's oped calls for what she calls "pandemic amnesty" - calling for Americans to set aside differences and angrer over disagreements related to COVID-era issues. Meads discusses his response to that in which he says agreement on what was/is true and accountability should be reached before bygones are allowed to by bygones.
Financial advisor Eric Robert from Stifel Financial (https://www.stifel.com/) describes how the latest interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve will affect family budgets. He also addresses the ongoing inflation and how it relates to the interest rate hikes.
https://www.clearpathinvesting.com/
Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo received both criticism and praise for his statements (and actions) during the era of Covid shutdowns and restrictions. In this discussion, he describes the process he used to sort fact from fear and how to keep individual freedom in the conversation. Dr. Ladapo also explains what public officials and public health bureaucrats should have learned from the mistakes of 2020-2022. He also discusses his new book, Trandscend Fear: A Blueprint For Mindful Leadership in Public Health.
Marian Tupey, a senior fellow at the CATO Institute and editor of HumanProgress.org, discusses common claims about the planet's population, resources, and opportunity for wealth in the new book he coauthored with Gale Pooley. Superabundance: The Story Of Population Growth, Innovation, And Human Flourishing On An Infinitely Bountiful Planet challenges assumptions over overpopulation and scarce resources.
https://www.amazon.com/Superabundance-Population-Innovation-Flourishing-Infinitely/dp/1952223393?
Michael Petrilli from the Thomas B Fordham Institute discusses the results of the recently-released National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results. The NAEP is often called the "report card" on schools and/or the public education system.
Petrilli says the latest results are concerning and some of the causes can be attributed to the school shutdowns and online-only format over the last couple of years. He also offers ideas to improve education outcomes for kids across the country.
https://fordhaminstitute.org/national/commentary/high-achieving-middle-schoolers-have-suffered-devastating-math-losses-finds
Sgt Betsy Smith from the National Police Association assesses the performance of St. Louis Police who stopped a school shooting in progress at the Central Visual & Performing Arts High School. One student and one teacher died before police fatally shot the attacker.
Smith also discusses the almost immediate politization of the situation by politicians who used the occasion to promote gun control polcies.
https://nationalpolice.org/
The Competitive Enterprise Institute's Ryan Young reacts to President Biden's announcement that his administration is going to address "junk fees" as part of his effort to lower the cost of living.
These "junk fees" include add ons for airline travel, cancellation fees by hotels, and concert ticket processing fees.
Landmark Legal Foundation has obtained records relating to Attorney General Merrick Garland’s directive that the DOJ investigate individuals attending school board meetings. In this discussion, Landmark's Assistant General Counsel, Mike O'Neill, describes what they found after news that the National School Boards Association contacted the US Department of Justice, encouraging them to consider investigations of parents who protest at local school board meetings.
Ed Mierzwinski, the Senior Director of the Public Interest Research Group's Federal Consumer Program, argues that regulators and lawmakers should address financial processes that they say is a bad deal for college students. Beyond just on campus incentives to convince young people to sign up for credit cards, Mierzwinski says the problems includes the colleges/universities and financial institutions are not serving the students' best interests.
Read PIRG's statement here: https://pirg.org/media-center/statement-new-cfpb-report-raises-concerns-about-banking-cards-on-u-s-campuses/
Super.com's Radhika Dugga explains why credit scores and credit (or a lack of) cause anxiety for many Americans. In addition to the concerns about debt in general, accessing credit means accessing opportunity for many low and middle income Americans.
Dugga also describes the secured bank card they developed to help people build a favorable credit score.
Jon Schwepp from the American Principles Project explains what the Stop The Sexualization Of Children Act is and would do if passed into law. It's proposed in Congress with little chance of passing under the current makeup of Congress and calls for federal tax dollars from going to entities that promote sexual materials to children.
This could include drag shows sponsored by schools or district-affiliated groups or held on school property. If passed, if could also address sexually-explicit books and other materials designed to promote any specific sexual behavior or lifestyle being made available to children through school libraries.
Image courtesy of BizPacReview.com
https://americanprinciplesproject.org/legislation/app-endorses-bill-protecting-kids-sexualization/
PayPal was recently caught adding policies to their service that could have resulted in the company fining users for "misinformation". Following an online and a media backlash, the company backtracked and claimed the rules were announced in error.
RedState.com's Susie Moore discusses the brief policy changes, the legal implications, and the state of censorship in business, particulalry in today's tech and financial services settings.
https://redstate.com/smoosieq/2022/10/08/after-getting-blistered-online-paypal-does-an-about-face-on-its-disinformation-policy-n639860
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Dr. Thomas Hogan from the American Institute for Economic Research explains why the hotly-debated policies in government have immediate affects on your personal finances. From oil product and gas prices to overall inflation to recent jobs reports, what happens in Washington DC is changing most Americans' personal finances.
Vinnie Vernuccio, president of the Institute for the American Worker, assesses some of the Biden Administration's proposals to change federal regulations related to contract workers. Supporters of the proposals, including labor unions, say it will protect contract and gig workers who don't get benefits that come with full time employment.
Opponents say the ideas would take away the flexibility and opportunity that comes with gig and freelance work.
The Manhattan Institute's Brian Riedl breaks down the extreme levels of waste and fraud associated with the federal spending plans. The discussion covers the numbers of dollars involved (as near as we can tell), the efforts to prosecute fraud as they stand now, and what it will mean to all taxpayters,
Here's his recent article on the problem: https://www.manhattan-institute.org/pandemic-fraud-and-waste-is-a-national-scandal
Gabe Phifer, host of the St. John The Philosopher Youtube show and Mike's cohost each weekday morning on NewsTalk STL, assesses a recent New York Court ruling that said polyamorous marriage should have the same legal protections as marriage between two people.
The discussion was a response to this op-ed by Tony Perkins from the Family Research Council: https://washingtonstand.com/commentary/ny-judge-fulfills-scalias-prophecy-time-has-arrived-to-legalize-polygamyGabe Phi
Former US Department of Homeland Security official Paul Rosenzweig points out potential concerns the US should have about Microsoft's growing workforce in China. The company has announced plans to have around 10,000 workers working in manufacutring and software development there.
The conversation covers both personal information security and national security concerns. https://www.law.gwu.edu/paul-rosenzweig
Author Laura Wellington expands on her recent article, Why So Many Woman Have Given Up On Dating, and points to technolgy, culture, and even COVID issues as reasons she believes are contributing to some women deciding to not pursue dating and relationships.
https://laurawellington.medium.com/why-so-many-women-have-given-up-on-dating-64620dc579bd
The Daily Signal's Virginia Allen describes what she saw while investigating the impact of illegall immigration on those who live (legally) along the US Southern Border. She spent multiple days there, interviewing residents, law enforcement, and immigrants who admit to entering the US illegally.
This conversation originally happened on, and is courtesy of, NewsTalk STL in St. Louis, MO.
https://www.dailysignal.com/2022/10/04/inside-a-texas-county-that-declared-border-crisis-an-invasion/
Professor Mark David Hall breaks down the debate over the term "Christian Nationalism" and offers his definition of what that is.
The term is generally used against conservative politics and activsm when those involved are Christians, although some on the Right embrace the term. Hall discusses whether that is a fair description and why understanding this part of conservatism in America is important.
https://www.markdavidhall.org/
Filmmaker Meg Smaker's new documentary, Jihad Rehab,is both praised as a provocative look into the lives and circumstances of former Guantanamo terrorism suspects/detainees and panned because, among other reasons, Smaker is white. Some critics argue that her background and what they call a lack of representation among the ducumentary team are among the reasons they called for the film to be withdrawn from film festivals and not shown in other settings.
In this discussion, t Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism's Angel Educardo argues that the content of the film should the be only thing used to judge it.
https://www.fairforall.org/
In a recent article, Eric Cervone explains why some members of Congress are pushing back against the practice of law enforcement agencies buying location tracking data from cell phone providers. The information can provide locations of where someone has been (or possibly is) without a warrant.
The discussion looks at the conflict between privacy rights and the extent of police surveillance and information gathering on any person.
Read his article here: https://www.theblaze.com/news/senators-seeking-to-reign-in-law-enforcements-cell-phone-tracking-abilities
The Pacific Legal Foundation filed a federal lawsuit agains the Biden Administration's program to forgive billions of dollars' worth of student loan debt, potentially affecting millions of borrowers.
PLF's Alison Somin explains why they and their client chose to challenge the program and she describes their legal strategy. Somin says PCF isn't challenging the policy goal per se but rather the way the policy was implemented, arguing that it it unconstitutional and sets a precedent for Executive Branch overreach.
Laura Zorc from the FreedomWorks explains the process being used to update Title IX regulations on both K-12 and higher education. She explains why her organization and many other conservative ones, oppose the changes.
The Biden Administration is proposing new rules that would, among other things, add gender identity to protected classes, affecting several aspects of education.
Mike O'Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation argues that the American Federation of Teachers is likely violating tax laws by claiming on their tax returns that they do not engange in political activities. Similar unions that conduct similar operations on behalf of candidates file their tax returns differently and disclose that they are politically active.
O'Neil says the AFT's way of completing the tax forms could be saving them a significant amount of money because, otherwise, they would have to pay some taxes on funds raised and used for political activity.
Competitive Enterprise Institute analyst Ryan Young explains how the Federal Researve's decision to raise the interest rate again affects many Americans' budgets.
He also looks ahead to the next (likely) interest rate hike and offers some observations on how Congress could help alleviate some of the effect being felt by businesses and familes around the nation.
The debate over public education policy and content has, of course, intensified over the past couple of years as parents around the country found controversial materials about race, politics, and sex/gender.
Heritage Foundation Vice President of Communications Rob Bluey, who is also the Executive Editor ofThe Daily Signal, discusses the role education could have in themid term elections. In addition to the content itself, Bluey also addresses the reaction to parents' growing activism with local school boards.
The Family Research Center's Director of their Center For Family Studies, Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, details a bill passed by the California State Assembly that allows the state government to take custody of minors seeking what some call "gender affirming care".
If/when the state takes custody of the minors, government approval could be granted for hormonal and even potentially surgical transgender treatments even if the child's parents disagree and object.
Governor Gavin Newsome has until September 30th to sign or veto the bill.
More information about the bill and opposition to it can be found here: https://washingtonstand.com/news/california-passes-bill-to-strip-custody-from-parents-of-minors-seeking-trans-surgeries
And here: https://www.californiafamily.org/2022/08/victory-and-defeat-for-parental-rights-in-sacramento/
Andrew Beckwith from the Massachussets Family Institute describes the frustration his organization and other pro life groups have with some in the criminal justice system and with some politicians and other policy makers.
MFI, along with First Liberty, is asking the state's Attorney General to both stop opposing their work and put effort into investigating and prosecuting the recent attacks on pregnancy resource centers in the state. The attacks in Massachusetts and across the country range from vandalism with threatening messages to firebombs thrown into buildings.
Learn more: https://www.mafamily.org/2022/09/12/civil-rights-protections-of-pregnancy-resource-centers/
- Image courtesy of the Massachusetts Family Institute.
Bankrate.com senior analyst Mark Hamrick responds to the latest CPI (Consumer Price Index) report showing a slight increase in inflation for the month of August. That report surprised many analysts and policymakers.
Hamrick discusses the cause, assesses the current state of the economy, and offers advice on what to consider when making financial decisions for your household.
Jason Snead, Executive Director of the Honest Elections Project, gives an overview of the trends and proposals that he says could undermine the accuracy and integrity of our voting process.
Among those are proposed legislation to essentially put all elections under federal oversight, expansion of drop off ballot boxes outside of polling places, increased mail in voting, and a lack of a photo ID requirement in many areas.
Learn more at https://www.honestelections.org/
Pastor Stephen Mannion explains why a growing coalition of churches is signing on to the Acts 5:29 Statement, which pledges to continue religious services/worship if governments order shutdowns in the future. The statement and coalition is in response to the recent government orders around the country that, under the guise of protecting public health, demanded that houses of worship not hold in-person services.
Learn more at https://acts529.com/
David Maulsby, Executive Director of the PTSD Foundation of America, discusses the reasons many veterans struggle with the challenge and the importance of providing resources for them.
The resources the Foundation offers include Camp Hope in Texas, which offers couseling and housing. The organization is non profit, not a government program.
Learn more at PTSDUSA.org
Bankrate.com's Cate Deventer explains the link between the current inflation we're all dealing with and your insurance.
In short, the increasing cost to replace what you have insured and the dollar limits on your policy could leave your family in a bad position if something bad happens.
Institute For Justice lawyer Josh Windham describes two similar cases that involve law enforcement (conservation agents, in this case) going on to privaye property for patrol purposes. In one case, the agents st up cameras on the private property without any warrants involved. Windham explains why IJ, on Fourth Amendment grounds, got involved and sued the state.
Note: this segment was originally broadcast in July of 2021
Americans For Tax Reform’s Grover Norquist offers his thoughts on proposed changes to the US tax code by the Biden Administration.
He also explains the economics of changing tax rates.
Tina Meier from the Megan Meier Foundation provides information for parents regarding cyber bullying and sexual predators who use the internet to harm their victims. Tina’s daughter, Megan, was one of the first known victims of cyber bullying and took her own life after ongoing harassment online.
The discussion offers advice for parents and others involved in the lives of children, teens, and young adults.
Amy Vandevelte from the Oasis Foundation discusses their free and low cost educational materials for adults, specifically senior adults.
The goal is to provide programs to teach life skills (operating current technology, health education, etc) and more traditional courses for continuing education. The focus is to provide learning material for improve healthy aging.
Note: this was originally broadcast in July of 2021
Rick Manning from Americans For Limited Government discusses the inflation that is happening throughout the nation. He assesses the basic data, discusses the causes, and explains the real effect the increasing prices are having on most people.
Charles Murray from the Competitive Enterprise Institute discusses his new controversial book, Facing Reality: Two Truths About Race In America.
The work examines disparities in outcomes of economic, educational, safety and crime, and health measurements between and among racial groups.
Chris Arps, Project 21 member and NewsMax News contributor, discusses why it’s difficult for many people to discuss matters involving race.
And why some people don/t want controversial opinions expressed or heard. Arps promotes an academic freedom and free speech approach to controversies. (part 2 of 2)
Chris Arps, Project 21 member and NewsMax News contributor, discusses why it’s difficult for many people to discuss matters involving race.
And why some people don't want controversial opinions expressed or heard. Arps promotes an academic freedom and free speech approach to controversies.
Corey DeAngelis, education choice advocate, discusses the politics of labor unions in public education.
Teacher union activism opposes most or all proposals to expand school choice. DeAngelis argues for expanded school choice, especially following the year (or more) of schools being online-only in response to the COVID shutdowns.
Melissa Venable from BestColleges.com provides information on a survey that says Americans are shifting their thinking on the importance of a traditional college education.
The survey shows more interest in community colleges, trade schools, internships and apprenticeships, and directly entering the workforce and less in a traditional four-year degree program.
Townhall.com Managing Editor Spencer Brown reports on inflation that’s affecting prices of common needs that are particularly important when travelling.
The price increases affect fuel, food, and typical household needs.
Brown also discusses some of the fiscal and energy policies that are effecting the prices in question, including government payments to discourage people from working.
Original air date: July, 2021
Bankrate.com’s Greg McBride discusses new research that shows how Americans are changing our savings and investment strategies.
Increasingly, real estate is being purchased as an investment strategy. Cash is also being relied on more often. Last year, stock market investing was the most popular strategy. McBride presents the strengths and possible weaknesses of different personal savings options.
Jacob Sullem from Reason Magazine discusses the CDC’s eviction moratorium order that bans most evictions in the US.
Sullem explains the law that the CDC is using to claim the authority to issue the order and the possible results and unintended effects of it.
Scott Shepard from the Free Enterprise Project argues that social media and technology/web companies (including Twitter, Facebook, Google, etc) violate the First Amendment rights of people when they coordinate with government to decide which opinions and news may be posted online.
The conversation focuses on social media's blocking of opinions and references to the origins of COVID-19.
Edward Long from the American Consumer Institute explains the push for more regulation on "Big Tech", specifically regarding the tracking and promotion of some products over others online.
The conversation informs about the links between search engines, web services, social media, digital tracking of consumers, and proposals by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D) and Josh Hawley (R) to regulate the companies via antitrust reforms.
Crime Prevention Research Center President John Lott responds to President Biden's call for more gun control laws across the nation.
The President made an address focused on violent crime in America's major urban areas, saying part of the problem is guns being brought in from outside areas with strict gun control ordinances or laws. Lott argues that more laws are both ineffective and add to the danger many urban community residents (where violent crime rates tend to be higher) face.
Crime Prevention Research Center President John Lott responds to President Biden's call for more gun control laws across the nation.
The President made an address focused on violent crime in America's major urban areas, saying part of the problem is guns being brought in from outside areas with strict gun control ordinances or laws. Lott argues that more laws are both ineffective and add to the danger many urban community residents (where violent crime rates tend to be higher) face.
Lindsey Burke from the Heritage Foundation discusses the increasing conflict about K-12 curriculum and the ideologies public schools are accused of pushing in the classroom.
Burke is the Director of Heritage’s Center For Education Policy. The conversation includes the results of a survey of both parents and teachers about ideological activism in schools.
Art Sackler, who represents the Coalition For A 21st Century Postal Service, explains why they are pushing for both reforms and more financial support to benefit the US Postal Service, which currently loses massive amounts of money each year.
Sackler argues that the USPS is essential to the nation’s economy despite the presence of private sector competition.
Increasingly, businesses are bringing their employees back into the office. Still, one pandemic-influenced change is likely to remain: virtual meetings. Whether that’s due to more hybrid, work-from-home schedules or some other reason, Zoom meetings are probably here to stay.
Andres Lares from the Shapiro Negotiations Institute provides advice on how to avoid “Zoom fatigue” and get the most productivity from online meetings.
ConsumerAffairs.com’s Mark Huffman explains what happened in a recent hack that acquired millions of logins and passwords from a variety of online platforms worldwide. More importantly, Huffman explains the risk this poses to everyone when it comes to possible identity theft and risk to personal finances.
He also offers advice on how to secure any accounts that may be compromised.
Erica Komisar, a licensed clinical social worker and psychoanalyst, discusses the declining birth rate in the United States. She discusses some of the possible economic and social effects if that continues.
While Komisar considers herself a feminist, she argues that feminism and a prevailing “me first” attitude are contributing to the disparaging of motherhood in our culture.
Erica Komisar is the author of Being There: Why Prioritizing In The First Three Years Matters.
A recent US Supreme Court ruling reinforced limits on many immigrants who entered the country illegally. Christopher Hajac from the Immigration Reform Law Institute explains the decision and the implications it has on other illegal immigrants.
The R Street Institute’s Tatiana Bolton explains how hackers disrupted a data system in the US House of Representatives. She also discusses the damage this, and other, kinds of hacking could pose to government, businesses, and individuals. She also offers basic advice to protect personal and financial information online.
Guy Bentley from the Reason Foundation critiques laws and other regulations that are designed to prevent smoking and vaping, particularly among young people. Among the aspects of the discussion are the costs to public health, public monies, and unintended consequences of the rules.
Huntington College history professor Marcus Witcher discusses the shift in political and cultural thinking within America’s conservative moment.
Witcher is a co-editor of the new book, Conversations On Conservatism, which presents various speeches delivered at the Philadelphia Society.
Nick Proctor from the US Public Interest Research Group explains their “Right To Repair” campaign.
That effort addresses an increasing number of products that lock owners out of the technology needed to repair them. These products range from phones to farm equipment. The blocks, often software-based, limit owners to only repair services provided by the manufacturer or those specifically allowed by the manufacturer.
Proctor argues that consumers should be allowed access to repair the items themselves or go to any repair provider they want. The “Right To Repair” proposal would require manufacturers to open up some of their technology to allow more competition in the repair market.
Davis Soderberg from the Free Enterprise Project (part of the National Center For Public Policy Research) discusses his oped, “Hard Work, Competition, and Self-Reliance: Martyrs In The Quest For Equity.
Davis argues that laws, policies, and other programs created with the stated goals of achieving equity in the US are, instead, causing more reliance on government and less reliance on a strong work ethic at the personal level.
https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/2021/05/31/hard-work-competition-and-self-reliance-martyrs-in-the-quest-for-equity/
Zinberg assesses those claims and the accusations against Dr. Anthony Fauci after thousands of his emails were released due to a Freedom Of Information Act request. The conversation also includes the politicization of the virus, possibly at the expense of people’s health.
Dr. Zinberg also discusses the slowing number of new vaccinations around the country and explains why he does not feel that should be a cause for alarm.
https://cei.org/opeds_articles/following-the-politics-not-the-science/ https://cei.org/opeds_articles/vaccine-slowdown-isnt-cause-for-alarm/
Gretchen Smith, founder of Code Of Vets, describes their mission and how they quickly meet financial needs of veterans in crisis. The situations COV helps alleviate range from simple needs, like car repairs to help a vet get to work or groceries for unemployed vets, to more complex situations like housing needs and help with medical bills.
Smith explains how the requests are vetted, how the money is raised through social media crowd sourcing, and how the funds are sent. COV provides documentation of each expense covered.
Citizens Against Government Waste Vice President of Government Affairs Deborah Collier discusses the increasing ownership governments at different levels are taking over internet access. CAGW argues that consumers are best served when governments own as little of the broadband market as possible and private sector providers own as much as possible.
The conversation includes economic development, security, consumer protection, and education.
Melanie Lieberman, Senior Travel Editor for ThePointsGuy.com, provides advice for those who plan to travel over the summer. Among the considerations she urges people to consider is the rising cost of oil and, as a result, higher gas prices. Lieberman also gives tips on finding less expensive vacations and areas that may not be as crowded now that travel is resuming at near normal levels.
Glenn Roper from the Pacific Legal Foundation represents a Florida farmer who is suing the Biden Administration, claiming racial discrimination.
The farmer, Scott Wynn, accepted a loan from the American Rescue Plan. He is required to repay the loan although farmers who are racial minorities are now – their loans are forgivable. Wynn is white.
Roper argues that the difference in forgivable vs not forgivable loans based on the race of the recipient in unconstitutional.
Jonathan Bydlak, Director of the Governance program at the R Street Institute, assesses the proposal to create a January 6th Commission to investigate the causes and actions of the riots at the US Capitol on that date.
Bydlak supports the idea and explains why he thinks it can be done without politics interfering in an investigation.
- Image from the FBI
Retired Seattle Police officer Steve Pomper, now with the National Police Association, discusses his new book, The Obama Gang: How Barak Obama, Through His Post-Presidency Foundation, Assembled, Launched, and Wages The New Assault on American Law Enforcement. Pomper explains why he blames the former president for much of today’s anti-law enforcement sentiment and argues against political efforts such as the “defund the police” movement.
Bankrate.com analyst James Royal assesses the recent swings in cryptocurrency values and provides a basic description of what the currency is. He also offers basic information on crypto as an investment, pointing out that it is a high-risk option right now.
Project 21’s Emery McClendon discusses his recent op-ed, “Reclaiming America’s Virtue”.
In the article, he argues that part of the reason for the division and conflict in our politics and society is a loss of civic virtue. While addressing some political topics, McClendon focuses on his encouragement to think in a less partisan manner and more in a greater good mindset.
Huntingdon College Professor Blake Ball discusses his new book, Charlie Brown’s America, and the subtle political and social commentary Charles Shultz embedded in the cartoon series Peanuts.
Phil Kerpen of both American Commitment and the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, argues that governments at all levels should learn from the past year’s COVID-related shutdowns. The lesson in his view is that they did not protect Americans and resulted in devastating economic, education, and personal health damages.
Rebecca Jackson from Brain Balance offers advice for parents who want to keep their children in a mindset of learning over the summer. Jackson says that, in addition to the normal regression that happens with many children over the summer, the added challenge of not being in classrooms full time over the past year adds to the urgency of helping kids retain and learn new information. Jackson also compares other options for parents, including the sue of tutors.
Heritage Foundation Research Fellow Dustin Carmack discusses the cyberattack on the Colonial Oil Pipeline that caused gas shortages throughout parts of the southeast and northeast United States.
Carmack, who specializes in technology policy, addresses the national security aspect of the attack by a group calling itself “The Darkside” and what both public officials and private companies should learn from the situation. He also discusses what needs to improve to make our national infrastructure more secure from future attacks.
Mike O’Neil from the Landmark Legal Foundation voices concerns about political efforts to affect the judicial process in the US. In addition to the so-called “court packing” proposal, O’Neil takes issue with an idea to require donor information and other disclosures from advocacy groups that file amicus briefs in court cases.
Former White House Economist Diana Furchtgott Roth, who served in senior roles under four presidents, discusses the Biden Administration’s push to require app-based employers to hire workers traditionally, as opposed to hiring them as contractors.
Furchtgott Roth is now a professor of economics at George Washington University and believes this opposition to “gig work” would limit or end opportunities for millions of people who need or want gig jobs like Lyft, Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, and other work through similar companies.
Jeff Ostrowski from Bankrate.com assesses the current housing market. He looks at comparisons to the housing bubble burst of the early 2000’s that contributed to a recession and explains what is similar and what is different from that time period. The conversation includes useful information for those involved in the housing market right now, including buyers and sellers, and for everyone else because this part of the economy affects many other parts of it.
Right Forge cofounder Aron Wagner reacts to the Facebook Oversight Board’s decision that continues a ban on former President Donald Trump. Wagner discusses the conflict between a private company’s right to monitor content on their platform and the argument that social media companies have a responsibility to allow freedom of speech.
Gary Nolan, nationally-syndicated host of the Gary On Guns radio show, explains the case – and possible ramifications of it – going before the US Supreme Court this year involving concealed weapons permits. The challenge is to a New York law that requires applicants for a permit to carry a concealed weapon to explain why they need one and still gives local governments the right to deny the request for subjective reasons.
Philanthropy Roundtable Senior Fellow Patrice Onwuka discusses a case heading to the US Supreme Court that centers on donor privacy for non profit organizations, think tanks, and some other advocacy groups. The case at hand involves the State of California’s demands that non profit organizations disclose personal information of donors.
- image courtesy of The Philanthropy Roundtable
The American Institute For Economic Research’s Peter Earle gives us his perspective on the push for digital currency and the effects that could bring to society. Digital currency – which is different from cryptocurrency – could be manipulated by governments seeking to micromanage economies, according to Earle.
A specific example of this possibility is the idea that governments could put expiration dates on monies in order to stimulate spending. That’s actually been done before.
Kerry McDonald, Sr. Education Fellow at the Foundation for Economic Education, discusses the trend of using public (and sometimes private) school curriculum to promote specific political ideologies. The conversation includes references to the politically-charged 1619 Project, the promotion of specific social and cultural value perspectives on race, sexuality, religion, and other points of contention. McDonald also addresses “wokeism” and liberal activism being taught in schools and promoted by the Biden Administration.
Kimberly Hermann from the Southeastern Legal Foundation provides a perspective on proposals to add justices to the US Supreme Court. SLF opposes the idea. Hermann explains why and also discusses the areas of US law, politics, and culture that could be affected if the effort were to be successful.
Dr. Derek Cohen from Right On Crime discusses some of the proposals for police and criminal justice reform in the US. Cohen also talks about ways conservatives could lead the effort.
Criminal defense attorney Jennifer Bukowsky provides a legal analysis of the recent criminal trial against former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin. She also explains the appeals process and some possible factors that could be used to argue for a new trial for Chauvin, who is now convicted of murdering George Floyd.
Freedom Works’ Stephen Moore, a former economic adviser to President Trump, discusses the economic efforts of the Biden Administration and congressional Democrats. Moore, an economist, explains why he disagrees with their broad definition of “infrastructure” that includes many social policies.
Moore also addresses his disagreement with congressional Republicans, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley in particular, and their push to break up Big Tech and other corporations that have shown bias toward conservatives.
Daniel Woislaw, a constitutional attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation, explains why PLF decided to enter a brief into a Fourth Amendment case being heard by the US Supreme Court. The case, Caniglia v. Strom, deals with an instance of police entering a home, and removing firearms without a court order or warrant.
Project 21’s Donna Jackson discusses the concept of Critical Race Theory and it’s use in academia, media, and politics. Jackson argues against the use of CRT on factual and moral grounds.
R. Street Institute Research Fellow Chelsea Boyd addresses the “pause” on distributing the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for COVID-19. Boyd explains why governments and medical professionals pause the usage of a pharmaceutical even if there’s no direct evidence the drug is harmful. She also addresses some of the concerns mentioned by those who choose not to get the vaccine.
Reason Magazine writer Billy Binion reacts to the shooting death of Daunte Wright in Minnesota. While it turns out that Wright was wanted on a warrant connected to a violent crime, Binion looks at the broader discussion of conflict between citizens and law enforcement.
Peggy Grande was Ronald Reagan’s executive assistant for ten years immediately following his tenure as President. She discusses working with him and the accounts of that time that are included in her book, The President Will See You Now.
The segment also includes a report from Public News Service about post-COVID mental health concerns, especially in young people.
Daily Signal White House correspondent Fred Lucas assesses and critiques Major League Baseball’s decision to relocate the 2021 All Star Game and related festivities from Atlanta to Denver. MLB says the decision is in protest of a new election reform law that some claim harms minority voters’ ability to participate in elections. Lucas points out what he calls hypocrisy of the organization by comparing the demographic makeups of the two cities and by comparing Colorado’s voting laws with the new Georgia one. In some aspects, the Colorado laws are more stringent.
Economist Victor Claar, PhD, discusses his recent Discourse.com article about minimum wage policy. Claar, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, argues against any federal minimum wage law. The conversation includes both an overall economic look at the issue and an examination of the current minimum wage debate.
Here's his article on the topic:
https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2021/03/74720/
Rick Manning, president of Americans For Limited Government, discusses a new center-right coalition his organization joined in response to recent corporate political activism. The campaign, called “Back To Neutral”, calls for businesses to reject pressures to get involved in partisan politics. Manning explains why the coalition says broad corporate political activism is bad for the country and their businesses.
- image courtesy of the National Center for Public Policy Research
Prager University’s Director of Outreach for the PREP program, Jill Simonian, explains why the conservative organization created a program to provide parents and teachers with educational resources they say gives a balance to biased programs and curriculum being used in K-12 schools now. PREP stands for PragerU Resources for Educators and Parents.
Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt is one of several Attorneys General who are suing the Biden Administration over executive orders that, he says, exceed presidential authority when it comes to policy decisions. Specifically, the lawsuits deal with the stoppage of the Keystone XL pipeline and the moratorium on drilling for oil and natural gas on federal lands. Schmitt also addresses a lawsuit pertaining to a part of the American Rescue Plan (COVID relief spending bill) that seems to ban states from cutting taxes in some areas.
CreditCards.com analyst and reporter Ted Rossman provides advice for those who have unused airline or other travel credits due to trips cancelled during the COVID pandemic. For some airlines, the credits may expire without refund soon. Rossman explains how to get clarification from the airline or credit card companies and provides tips on ways to preserve the availability of the credits. Rossman also discusses ways some financial companies have expanded their rewards programs to include more than just travel. In some cases, normal weekly purchases could also earn rewards.
Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker discusses “The Long Game” project of the Young America’s Foundation, of which he is now president. The project focuses on countering left-leaning and left-wing bias in education, media, and culture through messaging focused on college students, high school, students and younger students. The project includes issue and ideological-based content on social media, speakers on college/university campuses, and legal actions against efforts to block conservative speakers, organizations, and ideas on campuses.
Mike McShane, PhD, the National Director of Research for Ed Choice, discusses his new book, Hybrid Homeschooling, which argues for more flexible K-12 education. McShane’s research started prior to the COVID pandemic and related school closures and includes lessons learned from both data, case studies, and the impact of the shutdowns. McShane suggests a system that blends parental and school control, more educational choice, and fewer days in the physical classroom.
Sean Higgins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute compares two labor law proposals in Congress: the National Right To Work Act and the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. Among those impacted if either of these bills becomes law are employers, labor unions, non-union workers, and freelance “gig” workers (including ride share drivers, photographers, and entertainers).
*image from CEI.org
National Taxpayers Union president Pete Sepp discusses the potential long-term effects of the massive COVID relief spending plan that is behind payments going to most US households now. He also critiques the idea of another multi-trillion dollar infrastructure spending plan with no specific mechanism to deal with the resulting debt. Sepp argues for limited support to some households and businesses while also saying spending should be reduced in other areas. He also explains why he hopes to see recent tax cuts kept in place.
Convention of States president Mark Meckler argues for an Article V Convention of States to be called in order to amend the United States Constitution. His effort has already been approved by 15 states, butting the campaign near the halfway point of what is needed. Meckler explains the process as outlined in the Constitution, the specific areas his group wants to see addressed with constitutional amendments, and answers objections raised by opponents.
- image from ConventionOfStates.com
Bankrate.com Senior Analyst Mark Hamrick assesses the recently passed stimulus spending plan. He discusses both the short term and long term economic effects but, more importantly, how the stimulus payments to households and additional subsidies of businesses could change current job conditions.
Religious freedom and LQBT rights are colliding in many aspects of the law, the courts, and in culture. World Magazine reporter Steve West discusses the conflicts and two approaches to public policy that seem to be competing. One would make exceptions for religious organizations to LGBT rights laws and policies. The other would not allow for religious objections or exemptions from local, state, or federal nondiscrimination standards, which could result in forcing some faith-based groups to violate their conscience.
Chris Arps from Project 21 (a national network of black conservatives) discusses the “For The People Act” and other efforts to reform elections in the US. Arps disagrees with the assertion that many liberal proposals are needed as part of making voting more accessible to minorities. He also pushes back against the argument that changes including universal mail in voting, automatic voter registration, and ballot harvesting are part of achieving racial equity.
Amity Shlaes from the Coolidge Foundation relates the content of The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge, which she co-edited, to today’s political climate. The conversation includes discussion of changing mindsets of those in (or who pursue) political power, partisan dynamics, and a lack of clear messaging of party platforms in today’s politics.
Consumer Affairs’ Mark Huffman discusses recent increases in gas prices and explains why those prices are likely to continue to go up over the spring and summer. He also provides an update on the stimulus payments recently approved by Congress and President Biden. Huffman provides consumer advice regarding credit card costs and potential taxes as well.
Landmark Legal Foundation’s Mike O’Neill discusses the politics behind the decisions to keep schools partially or completely closed to in-person learning in many parts of the country. O’Neill focuses on the political power of teachers’ unions and their work to keep classes online or not happening at all.
Dr. Roger Klein, a clinical pathologist and former advisor to the CDC and the US Department of Health and Human Services, comments on the updated CDC guidelines for those who have received COVID vaccinations or have recovered from the virus. Klein, now with the Regulatory Transparency Project, argues that many of the precautions still being promoted (and, in some cases, mandated) may not be necessary still and also says there could be unintended consequences of continuing the current policies.
National Center for Public Policy Research Vice President David Almasi discusses his brief exchange with Disney CEO Bob Chapek over what Almasi says are cultural and business double standards. Almasi asked Chapek about Disney’s decision to fire conservative actress Gina Carano after she posted controversial statements on social media but did not respond to controversial posts & tweets from liberal actors. The exchange was part of a Disney shareholder meeting. Almasi the addresses the trend of businesses, particularly culture-influencing ones, taking political and social positions. He explains why he believes businesses should “get back to neutral” and how consumers can help push back against corporate activism with which they disagree.
American Legislative Exchange Council Chief Economist Jonathan Williams reviews recent government spending designed to address hardships caused during the COVID19 pandemic. He discusses the current debate over another COVID relief bill and other economic proposals being debated in Congress.
Can you have too many choices to get news coverage and opinions to consider?
In this segment, the Free Enterprise Project’s Scott Shepard discusses efforts by some members of Congress to pressure media companies into dropping specific news and opinion programming based on which viewpoints are shared. The Members of Congress specifically called for conservative channels, including FOX News, One American News Network, and Newsmax TV to be discontinued by private cable and streaming carriers. Shepard argues that pressure is an affront to the idea of the free exchange of ideas and shows a troubling trend in both our political and media industries.
Prof. Hunter Baker of Union University assesses the state of the conservative movement in America. Dr. Baker evaluates the ideological changes happening within conservative and Republican ranks and the challenges that face them. Baker comments on the history of the voter bases of both major parties and assesses the role Donald Trump could still have within the GOP regardless of whether he runs for president again or not.
The Heritage Foundation’s manager of their Election Law Reform Initiative, Hans Von Spakovsky, discusses the “For The People Act” proposed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and several other Congressional Democrats. Spakovsky, a former member of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity, assesses the changes the bill would make and the effect those could have on elections and politics in the US.
Washington Examiner columnist Brad Polumbo assesses the “cancel culture” controversy of actress Gina Carano being fired from Disney’s The Mandalorian after reaction to her social media postings. Polumbo explains why not all “cancels” are First Amendment issues but they are likely cultural and free market issues. The discussion includes the trend of politization of businesses.
The data from many, maybe most, parts of the US indicate that the rate of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths are all decreasing. American Commitment’s Phil Kerpen discusses some of the responses to the virus that resulted in job losses, negative economic effects on many areas, a hiatus on education for children, and the emotional tolls on individuals. Kerpen argues that lessons learned from the fight against coronavirus should include avoiding overreach by government into the private sector.
Institute for Energy Research Director Kenny Stein assesses the situation that led to millions of Americans being without power in Texas during a recent winter storm. Among the topics discussed are the region’s reliance on renewable energy, federal regulations that slowed down the response to the increased demand for electricity, and accusations of the utilities and government being unprepared.
Code of Vets is a non profit that provides emergency funding to veterans who are at risk of eviction and/or have other immediate financial needs. Those needs could include utility payments to avoid shutoff, auto repairs, or money for groceries. Gretchen Smith explains how the organization vets the applicants and quickly raises the funds to meet the immediate physical needs online, mostly through Twitter. She also discusses why veterans are often in need of help once they return to civilian life.
Note: This interview was recorded prior to the US Senate's vote to acquit former President Donald Trump a second time.
R. Street Institute Senior Fellow Paul Rosenzweig served the Starr Commission as senior counsel while that group investigated accusations against then-President Bill Clinton. In this conversation, Rosenzweig assesses the impeachment case against Donald Trump. Even though he’s a self-described conservative, Rosenzweig provides a constitutional and historical context in arguing for a conviction.
Dr. Michelle Rozen, author and founder of Success Academy, offers advice on improving interpersonal relationships now that the way we communicate has changed and increasingly gone online via Zoom calls. With fewer in-person conversations with colleagues and more time together with family, Rozen says we must adapt to the changes in order to stay both emotionally healthy and productive.
Facebook is among the “Big Tech” companies backing a proposal to regulate speech and other content online. In this conversation, the Institute For Free Speech’s Luke Wachob provides the opposing perspective on both freedom of speech and anti-monopoly grounds. He also discusses the possible unintended consequences of efforts to require nonprofit think tanks to disclose all their donors in the same way political campaigns are required to make them public.
American Enterprise Institute’s Daniel Cox, director of the Survey Center On American Life, discusses the troubling findings of their new research that shows an increasing number of Americans are willing to view violence as a legitimate tool for political or social change. While both extremes of the political spectrum have individuals willing to use violence, the survey shows a surprising percentage of those on the Right in that category. The conversation also includes the increase in acceptance of conspiracy theories among Americans, especially among evangelical Christians.
This is the full interview. The version that aired on our partner radio stations was shortened due to time constraints. I was careful to make sure the context of the conversation was not changed by the edits. - Mike
School choice week recently concluded and, this year, it's a little different. That's because more school choice bills are moving in more state legislatures. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of children are now learning from home. Or not.
That's fueled an increase in support for school choice options.
Education Freedom Institute Executive Director Corey DeAngelis explains what that could mean for families around the country.
Being an entrepreneur isn't just about starting a business. It's about solving challenges. That's according to the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative's Gary Schoeniger. Their upcoming webinar series, "Entrepreneurship In Education" focuses on improving what kids learn by changing how they learn.
Speech First president Nicole Neily provides an update on their settlement with the University of Illinois.
The University imposed multiple regulations on political flyers and other opinion-based speech on campus, which Speech First fought through a lawsuit.
Neily provides details of the regulations, why they challenged them, and why she says the affect of anti free speech policies on public campuses extends off campus. In other words, why should you care?
Texas State University journalism professor Amber Hinsley discusses the trend of several states adding media literacy to school curriculum. The conversation includes what media literacy should be and why the skill is needed more each day.
While media literacy and the ability to think through bias is important, can it be taught objectively in 2021?
Rightforge co-founder Martin Avila explains why the BadBigTech.com web project was launched. It’s in reaction to what conservatives say is bias in both the media, especially social media, and among the largest technical companies in the world. The deplatforming of Parler is one of the examples of “Big Tech” bias used as an example of conservative and libertarian viewpoints being limited or banned on some sites.
David Closson, Director of Christian Ethics at the Family Research Council, discusses the ongoing restrictions placed on churches and other houses of worship throughout the country. The conversation addresses First Amendment implications, the possible effect on public health, and the importance of faith communities in culture.
Howard Wall, PhD, the Director of the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise at Lindenwood University explains some of the current discussions happening in government and media. This includes the call to increase the minimum wage throughout the country to $15.00 per hour.
Americans For Tax Reform President Grover Norquist assesses the first days of the Biden Administration and the balance of political power in Congress. The discussion covers multiple debates happening in government and throughout the country, including the President’s decision to stop the Keystone XL oil pipeline project.
Pacific Legal Foundation Attorney Damien Schiff discusses a specific case they are working on that could have larger implications to the trend of government-ordered moratoriums on evictions. Schiff provides a perspective from that of the landlords. In this case, the owner of a business property who is not receiving rent payments because the business – while considered “essential” and is still open – is protected from evictions and other actions during the declared emergency.
Heritage Foundation Senior Fellow Doug Badger explains the advancement in development of COVID-19 rapid testing and talks about the possible ways that can help curb the spread of the virus.
Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter and columnist Deb Saunders discusses the inauguration of President Joe Biden, his first days in office, and the agenda he’s laid out for this term. She also assesses the political and cultural realities he’s be working with and against.
Matt Kibbe, CEO of Free The People and host of the Kibbe On Liberty (podcasthttps://freethepeople.org/kibbe-on-liberty-podcast/), addresses the current state of anxiety and tribalism in the country. Among the topics are violence in protests, near-apocalyptic language used by some in discussing politics, and ways opposition to the President’s agenda (conservatives and libertarians in particular) can effectively engage the process and culture.
Taylor Leamey, a financial analyst for TheSimpleDollar.com, explains their new survey that finds a majority of Americans say they need a raise to keep up with financial demands. Since many companies are struggling due to COVID-related shutdown orders, Leamey also offers suggestions on generating additional income through “gig work”.
BBB investigator Rebecca Phoenix describes some of the current COVID-related scams they are seeing. Some are attempts to steal stimulus payments and others capitalize on COVID fears like protective equipment shortages. She offers advice on spotting scams and how to protect both personal information and financial information.
Popular columnist and podcast host Hannah Cox (Newsmax, Washington Examiner, Foundation for Economic Education) discusses her op-ed about the US “No Fly” list. Because some elected officials are calling for placing some protesters on the list, there are renewed concerns about the program being used for politics and not just security.
John Inazu, law professor at Washington University in St. Louis, addresses the debates over free speech, hate speech, and inciting violence that is currently dominating our headlines. Among the topics discussed are whether there are (or should be) any limits on political speech and whether the First Amendment applies in the private marketplace, including on social media. Dr. Inazu provides perspective on the legal and ethical issues involved.
Darrell West, Vice President of the Brookings Institute, explains the legal rights business have when it comes to surveilling their employees both on site and when the employees are working from home. West explains the rights employees have and provides advice on which questions employees can ask to ensure they understand their complete workplace situation.
Andrew Keshner, reporter for Marketwatch.com, explains new federal regulations that require hospitals and many other medical facilities to disclose costs of several procedures and treatments up front. Keshner describes what information is required to be disclosed and which costs may still not be available up front, despite the change.
Bankrate.com analyst Mark Hamrick assesses the current state of America’s economy and the challenges the Biden Administration will face in the early days of his tenure in office.
Hunter Baker from Union University, a professor of political science at Union University, reacts to the violence at the nation’s Capitol on January 6th. Dr. Baker also discusses the dynamics of political power with Democrats now in control, albeit narrowly, of both chambers of Congress.
Ben Lieberman from the Competitive Enterprise Institute explains one of the items in the aforementioned spending bill that, he says, is likely to drastically increase the cost of air conditioning because of new environmental regulations. That is part of a larger discussion over the way these regulations are put into “must pass” omnibus legislation and how it affects both individuals and businesses.
Phil Kerpen from both American Commitment and the Committee To Unleash Prosperity, addresses the state of America’s economy and argues for an end to government-imposed business shutdowns.
Project 21’s Donna Jackson assesses the effect the national economy is having on minority communities, specifically black communities. She says the Trump Administration’s policies have been good for black workers and explains why she and Project 21 hope to see them continued during a Biden Administration.
Mike Gonzalez from the Heritage Foundation discusses both the recently-passed federal spending bill (specifically, the non-transparent way it was approved) and one of the spending projects it includes: a Museum of the American Latino. Gonzalez, a Cuban-American immigrant, argues that the project is divisive and part of “identity politics” in American. Gonzalez’s new book, The Plot To Change America, is a critique of identity politics.
- Note: This segment aired prior to Congressional approval of a COVID stimulus spending plan and the President's pushback against the amount of the direct payments.
Heritage Foundation Senior Policy Analyst Adam Michel reviews the proposal to send another round of direct payments to Americans. Michel addresses the arguments for the payments and discusses the possible economic effects of the borrowing and spending.
Bankrate.com analyst Stephen Kates talks about their new survey that shows most Americans miss opportunities to save money by reviewing their personal finances – especially insurance policies – regularly. He provides tips on how to effectively review those policies to make sure both the coverage amount is appropriate and that we are not overpaying.
John Miltimore from the Foundation For Economic Education discusses ongoing shutdowns of businesses by governments around the country. The conversation includes the argument that governments should have the ability to arbitrarily choose which businesses should be allowed to stay open and which should be forced to close in the name of public health. He also addresses the long term economic impact of these closures.
In response to the announcement that Major League Baseball will recognize records and other statistics from the Negro Leagues, Bob Kendrick discusses the importance of the change. Kendrick is the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and foremost expert on Negro Leagues history. Kendrick discusses the reasons for the decision, why he feels it’s correct, and the larger significance of the recognition to our culture.
Georgetown University Professor Jason Brennan discusses the purpose of his new book, It’s OK To Want To Be Rich. Brennan argues that Americans’ general conversation about money, profit, business, and social change needs addressed and reframed.
National Association of Scholars President Peter Wood’s new book, 1620: A Critical Response To The 1619 Project, looks at the historical, policy, and cultural claims made by The 1919 Project, a book written by New York Times reporter Nikole Hannah-Jones.
Laura Beltz from the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) discusses her report on the state of free speech in online education at the college/university level. The report found that the majority of surveyed institutions restrict speech and expression both in the online learning setting and even in other communication, including email. Belz explains why this trend could have an impact on the country, even those off campus, in the future.
Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Wen Fa discusses the ongoing lawsuit against Harvard University (and similar legal actions against other universities) that target specific minority groups for increased and limited admission. Fa specifically addresses Harvard’s policies regarding Asian-American applicants and compares those to treatments of applicants of other races. The discussion looks at the larger picture of race and merit-based admissions.
American Conservative writer Curt Mills discusses the recent US Supreme Court ruling that went against the State of New York’s COVID-19 health restrictions on worship services. The conversation includes the debate over balancing constitutional (in this case, First Amendment) rights and the effort to protect public health.
Dr. Roger Klein from the Regulatory Transparency Project critiques the COVID-19 game plan that’s been announced by Joe Biden and the team he is assembling. Klein, a pathologist, is a former director at the Cleveland Clinic and a former adviser to the FDA, CDC, and US Department of Health and Human Services.
Kim Case, crime victims’ rights advocate, is the host of a new online TV show called “Brave Embrace”. She discusses the project, which tells the stories of crime survivors and offers resources to those affected by violent crime. Case also talks about her recovery from a kidnapping and sexual assault when she was a teenager and provides advice to other victims and their families.
Ball State University Professor Steve Horwitz discusses the legacy of the late Dr. Walter Williams. The conversation also includes the importance of engaging controversial and complicated cultural and policy issues, such as matters of race and poverty, properly and with integrity in order to engage people with different perspectives.
Marketwatch.com financial writer Andrew Keshner discusses his recent article on the debate over paid parental leave policies. He compared the goals and outcomes of that policy in another country and interviewed researchers about the possible implications in the US. The focus of the discussion is whether government paid leave programs can reduce any gender pay gap in America.
The Manhattan Institute’s Brian Riedl discusses current proposals from activist groups, some in Congress, and Joe Biden to cancel some or all student loan debt held by the federal government. Riedl argues that cancelling the debt would be bad for the country in the long run economically.
Brandon Warmke, PhD, from Bowling Green State University argues that Americans’ political, social, and cultural disagreements have heated up to a place where we risk damaging our democratic process. He’s the co-author of a new book, Grandstanding: The Use And Abuse Of Moral Talk. Warmke says the changes in how we “debate”, especially on social media, increases polarization and often is the result of people fighting over moral superiority, not actual solutions to our challenges.
Victoria Eardley from the Foundation For Government Accountability discusses her recent op-ed that focuses on the impact of COVID19-related restrictions on small business owners.
Here's a link to the op-ed: https://thefga.org/commentary/american-dream-covid-19/
Ted Rossman from both Bankrate.com and CreditCards.com tells the audience about a new survey that shows nearly half of Americans are considering going into debt to pay for holiday gifts and celebrations. Rossman explains some of the possible financial consequences of that and offers advice on how to enjoy the holiday season without overspending.
Wendy Wang, PhD, from the Institute for Family Studies explains trends related to marriage in the United States. Both divorce and marriage rates and going down. She discusses why and also talks about the impact of COVID-19 shutdowns and other restrictions on marriages and children.
Phil Kerpen from American Commitment discusses the debate over how to make prescription drug prices more affordable. The conversation includes federal regulations and taxes.
The Free Enterprise Center’s Scott Shepard discusses his op-ed that criticizes corporations that agree to demands of liberal activist groups and protesters. Here's the link to the article: https://nationalcenter.org/ncppr/2020/11/06/woke-companies-stop-pandering-to-millennials-socialism-phase/
American Energy Alliance president Tom Pyle compares the energy policy positions of President Trump and former Vice President Biden and discusses the energy-related issues the next President will have to deal with.
Reason Magazine Senior Editor Jacob Sullum comments on the results of drug decriminalization/drug legalization votes around the country. All of them passed. Sullum discusses the possible legal, cultural, and medical impacts of treating drug use as a medical issue, as opposed to criminal one.
Washington Post columnist Henry Olsen discusses the ongoing controversies from the presidential election.
Washington Examiner, NewsMax, and FOX News writer/contributor Hannah Cox reflects on the social, political, and religious divisions in the United States, especially surrounding the recent election. Cox’s column “There’s Only One Way To Stop Polarization From Tearing Us Apart” argues for less federal government involvement in our lives and more personal tolerance of those with whom we disagree.
Dr. Marcus Witcher from Huntingdon College, author of Getting Right With Reagan, discusses the ideological crossroads America’s Right is at in 2020. Comparing the historical approaches to culture and politics of conservatives over the years, Witcher believes today’s conservatives (and “small L” libertarians) have to decide what being “conservative” now means in the United States. He specifically compares and contrasts the ideas of conservatism in the 1980’s and now.
NOTE: Obviously, this episode aired prior to the 2020 Presidential Election.
The Heritage Foundation’s Hans Von Spakovsky addresses concerns about vote fraud and election integrity as we head into the final days before the 2020 elections. Von Spakovsky has served on the President’s Commission on Election Integrity and explains possible affects of increased mail in voting and some court rulings that alter the rules for this election in some states.
Dr. Melissa Venable from BestColleges.com explains the results of a recent survey of college students. They were asked about voting and the survey found the issues driving the decisions of 18-23 year old college students is generally very different than the motivations for voting decisions of other age groups. Venable explains the differences in the mindset and in how this voting block is getting their information.
Jonathan Williams, Chief Economist for the American Legislative Exchange Council, discusses the current debate over Covid19-related stimulus spending. Williams argues that any stimulus/relief funding should not be used to financially bail out states that have been irresponsible with their fiscal policies.
Jen Risley from the Shop Indie Campaign explains their national campaign to encourage everyone to specifically buy from locally owned businesses in their communities during the holiday season. The discussion includes references to local economics, community identity, and support for artisans. The Shop Indie effort is part of the American Independent Business Alliance promotion to support small businesses.
Virginia Walden Ford’s story was made into the motion picture, “Miss Virginia”. The film focused on her effort to move her son out of a dangerous and underperforming Washington, DC public school. She lobbied for a school choice program and become a prominent figure in the debate over the issues of education, choice, and public schools. Walden Ford relates her experiences and views to the current discussion over school choice, particularly since President Trump recently said in a speech that he supports the idea for all students.
The Institute For Free Speech’s Research Director, Scott Blackburn, talks about the recent news that Facebook and Twitter specifically suppressed the spread of a NY Post article about Joe and Hunter Biden. The conversation centers on freedom of speech and how it applies to the social media companies and their users.
Competitive Enterprise Institute Senior Fellow Joel Zinberg discusses his recent study on COVID vaccines and the percentage of Americans willing to take them right now. The conversation includes references to the scientific and political objections being raised and the debate over whether a vaccine should be made mandatory for anyone in the US, rather than just made available to everyone.
The Oasis Institute’s Amy Vandevelte explains the importance of continuing education for adults, especially older adults. The non-profit offers non credit classes in a variety of subject both in person and online. The discussion includes education, healthy aging, mental health, cognitive health, and physical health.
Melissa Chen, a writer for The Spectator, discusses her recent article about Yelp’s decision to begin placing warning labels on the review pages of businesses accused of racism. She explains how Yelp plans to administer the change, the impact it could have on businesses (especially small businesses), and the possible unintended consequences.
Heritage Foundation legal fellow Amy Swearer provides perspective on the US Senate’s Judiciary Committee hearings about Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s nomination to the US Supreme Court.
Aaron Hamlin is the Executive Director of the Center For Election Science, which is promoting an election concept called “approval voting”. That is where all voters “approve” of as many candidates as they want on the ballot instead of just choosing one to vote for. Hanlin describes the concept, answers questions about it, and explains where it’s being used in the US now.
Horace Cooper from Project 21, the largest network of black conservatives in America, addresses the push for reforming our bail system in the US. Cooper disagrees with the push to eliminate the requirement for bail as a condition of being released from jail when criminal charges are pending in many cases.
Reason Magazine writer JD Tuccille discusses his recent article on cultural changes both in government and in society that, in his view, accept more authoritarianism in American. He argues that Americans have moved toward more central control of our lives because of the COVID19 pandemic and fear. Tuccille talks about why he thinks this change is bad for our culture.
Some Americans don’t use their insurance, especially property insurance, to its fullest benefits because they don’t know how. Bankrate.com’s Laura Adams gives a primer on how to understand basic benefits and why that matters to your personal finances when an unexpected setback happens. This could include accidents, fires, and natural disasters. She explains where to get answers and how to balance budgeting the cost of premiums with manageable deductibles.
Mark Huffman from ConsumerAffairs.com provides an update on the negotiations between the President and Congress on a second round of stimulus spending. He focuses on the direct impact the decision could have on small businesses and consumers. Huffman also discusses a study that shows most Americans are spending more money on groceries because of subtle changes to food supplies due to the pandemic.
Brandon Wright from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute explains why they published a new book about education funding and spending. Getting The Most Bang For The Education Buck argues that public education should reevaluate and reprioritize how tax money is spent to both improve learning and be more accountable to the public.
Washington Free Beacon reporter Chrissy Clark discusses the increase in efforts by colleges and universities to stop speech that opposes some current trends, including Black Lives Matter. Her recent article on the topic found what advocacy groups including the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education say is an increase in violations of the First Amendment.
Prof. Lauren Hall of Rochester Institute of Technology talks about her recent op-ed that examines the spread of potentially dangerous conspiracy theories. Among them are the “Q Anon” claims that hundreds of thousands of children are abducted and forced into sex trafficking each year, which is false. Dr. Hall explains why we should be careful of our information sources and how spreading false conspiracy theories can actually harm those we’re trying to help.
David Lapp, co-founder of Braver Angels, discusses the reaction to this past week’s contentious “debate” between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. Braver Angels’ purpose is to help people of different beliefs communicate better and learn from differences of opinions. Lapp discusses why listening and discussing opposing viewpoints is important to our culture.
Phil Magness discusses his two recent books, one of which is currently embroiled in a national controversy. His book The Best of Karl Marx critiques the overuse of Marx’s philosophy in American higher education. His book, The 1619 Project, A Critique, argues that the New York Times’ publication and subsequent materials being offered to schools is based on poor research and misleading writing that inaccurately describes US history.
Firefighter Danny Spry, Jr. from Columbia, Missouri is a personal friend of Mike Ferguson’s. Spry recently went public with his mental health diagnosis of PTSD after many years serving on the fire department. Spry discusses the importance of mental health, explains his journey towards getting help, and talks about the need to end the stigma of mental illness.
Author Jeffrey Tucker, the Editorial Director for the American Institute for Economic Research, discusses the claims in his new book that public health shutdowns and shelter-in-place orders are inconsistent with liberty. The book is called Liberty or Lockdown and Tucker argues against the regulations, even in a pandemic.
Ilya Shapiro from the CATO Institute discusses the current debate over filling the US Supreme Court vacancy and offers a recommendation for making the judicial branch of our republic less political. Shapiro’s new book is called Supreme Disorder.
Author and journalist Faris Cassell discusses her new book, The Unanswered Letter. The book tells the story of the Berger family who were Jews from Vienna. They sent a letter to strangers in the US in hopes of finding help in their effort to escape the Nazis shortly before the Holocaust. Cassell spoke with surviving family members and researched multiple records from Germany to tell the story of the family and explain why the information is relevant today.
The Landmark Legal Foundation’s Mike O’Neill addresses the increase of mail in voting that’s expected in the November elections. The segment includes references of ballot security and election integrity.
American Commitment’s Phil Kerpen assesses the nation’s use of COVID-19 testing and argues that a different approach should be used.
Anthony Marcum from the R. Street Institute’s Governance Project discusses President Trump’s announcement of an additional 20 names to his list of potential Supreme Court nominees. The conversation addresses the importance of the Court in the current campaign and upcoming election and the politics of the announcement.
William and Mary University professor Chris Freiman discusses his new book, It's OK to Not Care About Politics. He argues that, for some people, disengaging from the political debates and activism might be better for their health and for their communities.
Washington Examiner columnist Brad Polumbo discusses his critique of an author whose new book which argues that looting is acceptable as part of protest. The author was recently given a national platform to make his case for the acceptance of looting. Polumbo refutes some of the arguments made.
Image courtesy of Forbes
Luke Wake, an attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation, provides commentary on the use of executive power by governors to respond to the coronavirus fears. Wake argues that some or most of that power should be overseen by legislatures instead of continuing to rest with the executives under the realm of emergency powers.
Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) provides an update on the negotiations of another COVID-19 stimulus spending plan. She also discusses the increasing violence related to protests around the country.
Greg McBride from Bankrate.com explains their new survey on the rate of savings for US households. Specifically, the research is about emergency savings. McBride discusses why many households have less in savings now than before the coronavirus pandemic began and offers advice on preparing for the next financial downturn through building an emergency savings plan.
Robby Soave from Reason magazine discusses his article, “The GOP Should Shun Laura Loomer”, and the idea that political parties should have more of a “gate keeper” role when dealing with candidates to prevent extremists from negatively affecting our campaigns and overall body politic. The highly controversial Loomer won the Republican nomination for a Florida US House seat this week.
- image from the Loomer for Congress campaign website
Arthur Rizer from the R. Street Institute discusses his new research regarding what many call the militarization of police in America. Rizer, a military veteran with combat experience and a former police officer, argues that increasing the military-grade weaponry for law enforcement leads to more violence with police. He also explains why he feels blurring the lines between traditional police imagery and that of a soldier is bad for officers themselves.
Laurence Reed from the Foundation for Economic Education discusses the push for increasing mail in voting for this year’s presidential election. He argues against the idea both for election security & integrity reasons and for reasons of civic duty.
Here's his recent article on mail-in voting: https://fee.org/articles/vote-by-mail-no-thanks/
Hunter Baker, PhD, from Union University assesses the presidential race now that both party’s tickets have been decided (with Joe Biden’s selection of Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate).
- Photo courtesy of the Biden/Harris campaign Facebook page
Victor Claar, PhD, from Florida Gulf Coast University, discusses the effort to regulate “gig economy” services, like ride sharing apps, the same way other businesses are regulated. Specifically, the effort by California lawmakers to require Uber and Lyft to provide full employment benefits (insurance, minimum wage, paid time off, etc) to drivers who are currently contractors. Claar explains the market demands being met and unmet and the possible unintended consequences of not updating our regulatory approach.
Clark Neily, Vice President for Criminal Justice of the CATO Institute, talks about the multiple political, social, and legal debates happening about law enforcement, the court system, and criminal laws in the US.
Nick Stehle from the Foundation for Government Accountability assesses some of the debates and decisions being made by Congress related to the coronavirus’ effect on the US economy. The discussion includes unemployment benefits, stimulus spending, and government regulations on business.
Money.com writer Julia Glum discusses her recent article about negotiating fees and other monthly bills for household expenses. This includes both essential and non essential expenses. She describes which bills are more likely to be negotiated and offers advice on how to lower the monthly expenses.
Mike Gonzales from the Heritage Foundation discusses the contents of his new book, The Plot To Change America: How Identity Politics Is Dividing The Land of the Free. Gonzalez is an immigrant from Cuba and warns against the trend of division based on race and another demographic differences.
Tina Meier, founder of the Megan Meier Foundation, discusses cyberbullying, beginning with the tragedy of her daughter’s suicide. Meier explains why social media is more of a factor in the lives of young people than many adults realize and the dangers that come with that. The importance of mental health resources and healthy family communications are a major focus of the conversation.
Steve Paulsell from the Honor Flight network explains why the organization raises funds to send veterans to Washington, DC to visit the monuments and memorials built in their and their fallen colleagues’ honor.
ConsumerAffairs.com’s Mark Huffman reviews some of the current news stories that affect consumers. These include the trend of airlines taking a zero-exception approach to mandating masks be worn on commercial airlines, back to school shopping when many districts haven’t yet decided how to handle the school year, and tips for determining if your home is ready for another shelter in place lockdown order, if that were to happen in your state.
Dr. Lee Gross from Doctors For Patient Care explains the “direct patient care” model of primary physician care. The approach does not take insurance (government or private) and, instead, uses a small monthly subscription fee model. Gross discusses how the system works and why they have been able to reduce some health care costs for patients.
Shaun Flanagan from the Legatun Institute explains their 2020 US Prosperity Index and the factors they measured to compare each state in terms of economic opportunity and social mobility. The non-partisan project is free to use online and can be found at USprosperity.net.
David Williams, President of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, assesses both Congress’ questioning of the CEOs of the four “Big Tech” companies over antitrust and censorship complaints. Williams also discusses the work being done to put together a trillion-dollar-plus spending plan to stimulate the economy amid the coronavirus impact.
R Street Institute’s Kathryn Waldron provides an update on contact tracing app technology as part of the effort to slow down the spread of COVID19. She reviews current and potential cyber security risks as well as the possible benefits of using a trustworthy app.
Amanda Smithfield is the founder of ProvectCiv, which organizes conversations for high school students about difficult and controversial issues. The purpose is to, among other things, teach civility in disagreement, critical listening skills, and research skills by requiring participants to read arguments from multiple perspectives before having the conversations. ProjectCiv makes their resources available to schools and libraries across the nation.
Neetu Arnold from the National Association of Scholars discusses ideological bias and intolerance on most college and university campuses and why she believes that affects the rest of society. Arnold argues for conditions to be put on public funding of higher education that demands an increase in diversity of ideas.
Mat Staver from Liberty Counsel discusses both the overall concept of religious freedom in the US and some individual cases his organization is litigating. Staver argues that both the text and precedent connected to the First Amendment makes several coronavirus lock down orders unconstitutional. He also explains why he feels churches and other religious organizations should be treated as essential.
Mark Hamrick from Bankrate.com discusses their recent survey that found many Americans are delaying major financial and life decisions because of the current coronavirus-affected economy. Among the examples of financial opportunities being delayed are home purchases, pursuing different jobs, and retirement. Even marriage and having children are being delayed by some because of financial concerns. Hamrick also offers financial advice on planning during uncertain economic times.
Gretchen Smith, founder of Code of Vets, describes the work they do to provide financial assistance to veterans who are in difficult temporary situations. Examples include veterans who are laid off or are suffering from service-related disabilities and have had utility service shut off or are in need of money for groceries. Smith explains how they identify legitimate needs, vet the applications to avoid fraud, and provide financial assistance quickly (often in one day). She also discusses why veterans in particular are often in need after their military service.
Economist and news commentator John Lott, author of Freedomnomics and More Guns, Less Crime, discusses the findings written about in his new book, Gun Control Myths. He discusses the current debate over defunding police departments and the issues of gun ownership and the proper application of the Second Amendment.
Former Missouri Speaker of the House Tim Jones discusses the proper role of government in times of emergency and crisis and offers advice to both lawmakers and citizens on cooperation during crises.
Damon Dunn, former football standout and current fellow at the Pacific Research Institute, discusses his book, Punting Poverty: Breaking the Chains of Welfare. Dunn describes his childhood in poverty and his reflections on how he believes government programs were a disincentive for his family to pursue some better economic opportunities.
Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, describes the history of the Negro Leagues and their importance to America’s history. The discussion includes the role baseball, the Negro Leagues, and the integration of the game had in the Civil Rights Movement. The importance of black baseball as a business and economic driver for many communities is also a part of this discussion. Kendrick also explains why preserving the museum, the history, and the stories are important.
Image courtesy of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO
Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, describes the history of the Negro Leagues and their importance to America’s history. The discussion includes the role baseball, the Negro Leagues, and the integration of the game had in the Civil Rights Movement.
Part 1 of a two-part interview.
Image is courtesy of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO
Alec Greven from the Institute for Free Speech discusses the complex intersection of protest, public health concerns because of COVID-19, and the First Amendment.
Vinnie Vernuccio from both the Mackinak Center and the Workers For Opportunity Initiative discusses ways both government and labor unions can financially support workers amid COVID-19 related job losses. He also talks about the application of the Janus ruling to public sector employees.
Thomas B. Fordham Institute president Michael Petrilli discusses higher education and what’s needed in the modern workforce. The interview includes discussion of promoting four-year college and university programs to students who may not need that approach to education. Other options for careers after high school, like trade programs and technical certificates, are discussed.
Nick Stehle from the Foundation for Government Accountability discusses the remaining government-ordered shutdowns of businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He also offers ideas for reopening the economy in all states and offers thoughts on dealing with another wave of coronavirus infections, if that happens.
Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Marc Levin, who leads the RightOnCrime.com team, discusses ideas to improve the country’s approach to criminal justice. The discussion includes causes and solutions for mass incarceration. Juvenile justice and wrongful convictions are also part of the interview.
Amy VanDevelde is with the Oasis Institute, a non profit that provides free and low cost educational materials to older adults. They also connect older adults with schools to provide tutors for grade school children. VanDevelde explains what is offered both in person and online and why continued learning is important for healthy aging.
Peggy Grande was President Ronald Reagan’s personal executive assistant for ten years, immediately following his tenure in the White House. She talks about Reagan’s post presidential work, his meetings with world leaders, and what she learned from him about leadership and other aspects of life.
James Whitford from the True Charity Initiative discusses the debate over charitable work in the US. He’s asking that we rethink our approach and consider what he believes is a more sustainable way to help those in need. The discussion also includes questions of justice in relation to non profit and charitable work.
Former national TV host and former US Congressman J.D. Hayworth assesses the current policy, economic, and cultural events around the country. This includes discussion about rebuilding job opportunities and our economy after COVID-19 shutdowns, both peaceful and violent protesting, the role of news media, and proposed reforms to law enforcement.
Landmark Legal Foundation President Pete Hutchison assesses the US Supreme Court’s ruling on sexual orientation and sexual identity as it related to the Civil Rights Act. Hutchison disagrees with the ruling, explains what has changed, and talks about the potential consequences for businesses and faith-based charitable work.
Clinical pathologist, Dr. Roger Klein, provides a medical perspective on the state of public health and the coronavirus pandemic. He responds to media headlines that claim a second wave of COVID-19 infections is likely and the results of states allowing businesses, churches, and other activities to reopen. He also discusses ways to protect yourself personally from infection.
Daniel Woislaw is a constitutional attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation. He explains what “qualified immunity” is since there is now a bipartisan push to end that for police officers around the country. He also discusses why he feels that could be a law enforcement and criminal justice reform that benefits society.
Brittany Fatoma organized one of the first Black Lives Matter protests in response to the killing of George Floyd in the Midwest. Her demonstration (in Columbia, MO) was peaceful. She discusses the current state of the BLM movement, the systemic issues she feels remain unaddressed, and the use of violence other protesters employ.
(Image is from Brittany's Twitter account)
R. Street Institute’s RJ Lehmann informs about proposed changes being made for the insurance industry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes relate to insurance some businesses buy to cover their financial losses due to disasters. The decisions made will likely affect small business’ cost of business and public spending in future pandemics.
Glenn Moots, PhD, is among the victims of the dam failure flooding referenced in the previous segment. He provides a first-hand account of the damage and explains why so many residents blame government for not informing them of the potential for disaster.
Wall Street Journal reporter John Stoll discusses the ongoing response to recent flooding in Michigan due to multiple dam failures. Stoll provides background on the tragedy and information about policy, regulatory, and financial circumstances that may have led to the failures and why the situation may have been avoidable.
Jeff Colyer, MD, is a former governor of Kansas. He provides medical advice for both reducing personal risk of COVID-19 exposure and reducing the risk to public health with public policy.
Mark Hamrick from Bankrate.com discusses the results of a new survey they commissioned. That found a vast majority of Americans do not want to go back to restaurants, bars, and similar businesses yet. The majority of respondents think it’s too early to reopen them.
Chris McDonough is an attorney and municipal judge in the St. Louis area. His client, House of Pain gym, is among those that have made news by defying government orders to remain closed. McDonough discusses the constitutional debate involved in the situation and the role of government in general when it comes to health and economic freedom.
Reason magazine contributing editor J.D. Tuccille explains the basic proposals being made to enact “contact tracing” as part of the effort to stop coronavirus infections. Included in the interview are facts about how contact tracing has been used in other countries and concerns about privacy here in the US.
The title of his op-ed, COVID-19 Contact Tracers Or Cootie Cops, is available at Reason.com.
Samuel Staley, PhD, a Florida State University professor and film critic, discusses some controversial issues raised by Netflix’s miniseries, “Waco”. The discussion includes religion, criminal justice, and militarization of law enforcement.
Bradley Watson, PhD, Political Science Professor at St. Vincent College in Pennsylvania and author of the new book Progressivism: The Strange History of a Radical Idea, discusses the findings he included in his book. The history and ideological movement involves high education, culture, and religion.
Chris Arps, political commentator and columnist, discusses the February killing of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia. The interview covers the role of social media in legal cases, the politization of court cases – especially ones with racial elements – and the difficulty we have in our culture of discussing conflicts when race is involved.
Dr. Mark Smith, president of Columbia International University in Columbia, SC, discusses his recent Washington Times op-ed. That piece compared past crises the US has weathered with the current coronavirus pandemic. Smith argues for a skeptical approach to government control of businesses, individuals, and health decisions under emergency powers orders.
He also discusses the growing number of situations where business owners are defying government dictates and reopening their businesses.
Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform, provides a perspective on how government should handle the next steps of economic recovery from the current recession. Norquist also provides some historical context by discussing the Great Depression and lessons that can be learned from it.
Greg Pryor is a 10 year veteran of Major League Baseball, best known for his time with the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals. Pryor discusses the absence of baseball in our culture right now, offers advice to players of all levels who are waiting to find out if/when they will get to compete, and discusses his new book, The Day The Yankees Made Me Shave, which is a collection of memories from his playing days.
Ball State University Professor Steve Horwitz discusses the suspension of personal and economic liberties in response to the COVID-19 virus. Horwitz is an economist whose expertise is in free enterprise and he’s also a writer who focuses on liberty issues.
Harry Hutchison from the American Center for Law and Justice discusses multiple proposals being made in politics, media, and academia to change aspects of the voting process this year. Specifically, he addresses ideas to move the election date and allow mail in and/or online voting.
Dr. Jeffrey Singer is a general surgeon and a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute. He discusses the unintended consequences of the current government orders that limit medical care to “non elective” treatments, consultations, and procedures in many parts of the country. Singer explains why the orders are hurting many people by denying them access to important, even life saving, care.
Ted Rossman, Senior Analyst with CreditCards.com reviews multiple options people have to access cash for emergency expenses, especially since so many people are now furloughed or unemployed. He provides advice on which options to consider and which to avoid.
Pacific Legal Foundation Senior Attorney Anastasia Boden discusses their effort to convince governors across the country to suspend certificate of need laws, which are often used to stop new businesses and medical facilities. C.O.N. laws require the business owner and/or non profit leader to prove a need for their business or service before being allowed to build and operate.
Zuani Villarreal from Feeding America describes the challenges food banks and food pantries throughout the nation are experiencing because of the response to coronavirus fears. She also details the role food banks have in serving those in need.
Wall Street Journal tech reporter Julie Jargon discusses her recent article about managing kids’ screen time during this time of stay at home orders. The conversation includes advice from parenting and mental health experts.
James Harrigan, Managing Director of the Center for Philosophy of Freedom at the University of Arizona, talks about the new book he co-authored, Cooperation and Coercion. That book compares the use of government to enact change in communities and the nation versus using a cooperative approach to problems that need to be solved. Harrigan argues for the latter.
Robert Bluey, Executive Editor of the Daily Signal, discusses the work being done by the Heritage Foundation’s new coronavirus commission. The commission is researching ways for Congress and Governors to safely re-open the national and local economies.
Kevin Kosar, Vice President of Research Partnerships of the R Street Institute, discusses his recent op-ed calling for a financial bailout of the US Postal Service. Among the aspects of the conversation are taxpayer funding and transparency, the role of the USPS, and reforms needed to make the agency self-sufficient.
Ashkhen Kazaryan, Director of Civil Liberties for Tech Freedom, discusses some of the developments in the effort to contain coronavirus. Specifically, she talks about long term privacy and civil liberties concerns with plans by Google, Apple, and governments to track people via their cell phone Bluetooth. The idea is to notify people if they were near someone exposed to the virus through an app.
Connor Boyack, president of the Libertas Institute in Utah, discusses work they are doing there to protect the privacy of those who send DNA samples to medical research and/or genealogy services. The conversation includes privacy, constitutional protections against unreasonable search and seizure, and law enforcement.
Educational Freedom Institute Executive Director Corey DeAngelis discusses the challenges schools, parents, and children are dealing with right now because of the school shutdowns around the country. DeAngelis argues for reforming our educational system and including more school choice.
Marketwatch.com reporter Andrew Keshner discusses what he found while researching for his recent article about the “stimulus payments”, which started going out this week. His column provides advice on how to most effectively spend (or save) the money.
Washington Post columnist Henry Olsen assesses the political aspect of the coronavirus crisis and why that affects all Americans. He discusses the economic response and the politization of the situation.
Terence Jeffrey, editor in chief for the conservative CNS News outlet, discusses the many government orders around the nation that have closed churches and other houses of worship in response to coronavirus fears.
Former federal prosecutor Sidney Powell discusses why she's accusing the entire federal criminal justice system - including prosecutors, the Department of Justice, the FBI, and judges - of being corrupt.
Her new book is called Conviction Machine.
Powell is now the attorney for former National Security Advisor General Michael Flynn.
Bankrate.com Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Analyst Greg McBride discusses two of their recent surveys.
In addition to finding out how Americans are responding to the economic downturn in the "coronavirus economy", McBride has advice on several aspects of personal finance.
BBB investigator/spokesperson Rebecca Phoenix, who works out of their St. Louis office, updates us on the scams they are seeing now. These include high tech, voice-cloned voicemails that sound like a relative or boss, directing you to send money somewhere.
She also discusses scams they are seeing designed to capitalize on coronavirus fears.
Thomas B. Fordham Institute President Michael Petrilli discusses the new book he co-edited, How To Educate An American.
The book is a collection of conservative and libertarian thinkers' essays on ways to improve our nation's approach to education and teaching citizenship.
The R Street Institute's Lars Trautman discusses his recent op-ed, "It’s Not Anti-Law-And-Order To Back Prosecutorial Reform".
You can see the piece here: https://www.rstreet.org/2020/02/26/its-not-anti-law-and-order-to-back-prosecutorial-reform/
Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker (R) addresses the response to the coronavirus outbreak in the US.
This was recorded prior to the major outbreaks in several US cities.
Melanie Lieberman, Senior Travel Editor for ThePointsGuy.com discusses a recent survey showing a national consumer dissatisfaction with airline travel in the US. Lieberman explains why many Americans find the process of flying stressful and offers advice on how to have a better experience when using air travel.
Washington Examiner Senior Campaign Reporter Kerry Pickett assesses both the Democratic race for President after “Super Tuesday” and the current state of the campaigns as they relate to the November general election.
Matthew Heinman from the National Security Institute at George Mason University explains what the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is and how it potentially affects all Americans. He also describes the controversy over the Act, specifically abuses that have violated personal privacy for political gains, and the reforms being proposed.
Mark Huffman from ConsumerAffairs.com discusses both scams and financial affects related to the coronavirus news and scares. Specifically, he talks about scams showing up on online marketplaces trying to capitalize on fears about the virus and he discusses how the coronavirus is affecting travel and other parts of the economy.
Host Mike Ferguson and reports from Public News Service, the Mayo Clinic, and Consumer Affairs.
Sandra Block is the author of the current Kiplinger’s magazine cover story (“Surprise! You Can Still Save Hundreds On Your Taxes”). She discusses the information covered in the article, which ranges from deductions and credits people may not know about to ways people can reduce their 2019 tax bill through financial moves in 2020.
Landmark Legal Foundation president and general counsel Pete Hutchison discusses their representation of “Angel Families”; families who have lost someone through violence committed by someone in the country illegally.
Pacific Research Institute CEO Sally Pipes discusses the ongoing debate over public versus private health care systems. She specifically addresses calls for government to provide more (or all) health care insurance coverage in the country. Her new book on the topic is called False Premise, False Promise.
Host Mike Ferguson and reports from both Public News Service and the Mayo Clinic provide information on personal health. Updates on the forthcoming REAL ID laws are also provided.
Patrick Tuohey from the Better Cities Project explains their work to research the economies, policies, and performance of America’s largest 100 cities. He also discusses how that information could improve the cities and what smaller communities could learn from it as well.
Amy Lutz from the Holocaust Memorial and Learning Center in St. Louis, MO discusses their work to preserve the memories of those who died in and survived the Holocaust and their effort to teach current and next generations about it.
Dr. Roger Klein, adviser to the FDC and former adviser to the CDC, discusses the current coronavirus news. Klein addresses the realities of the flu strain and, in his opinion, the myths and misunderstandings being spread about the actual level of danger to Americans at this point.
Host Mike Ferguson and reports from both Public News Service and the Mayo Clinic provide information on personal health and safety. Information from the BBB is also provided that is consumer protection-focused. The information details ways to prevent your tax information from being used by scammers to get your refund.
Ross Marchland from the Taxpayers Protection Alliance discusses the economics and health impact of growing government-run healthcare, specifically Medicaid.
Matt Kibbe from Free The People discusses efforts by politicians in both major parties to criminalize content posted online if it’s deemed “disinformation”. The focus of the discussion is on the freedom of speech and the government’s proper role in protecting it.
Host Mike Ferguson reviews the news of the week. This includes the acquittal of President Trump, incivility in response to Rush Limbaugh’s cancer diagnosis, and the Iowa Caucuses.
Jon Riches from the Goldwater Institute discusses their effort to convince states to recognize military spouses’ occupational licenses from other states. Because military families move often, spouses can be in a position to be qualified but not allowed to work unless they start a new education, testing, etc process to continue their careers.
News reports and advice on health, safety, and family. The reports come from Public News Service, the Mayo Clinic, and the Family Minute.
Darcella Craven, president of the Veterans Business Recourse Center, explains the resources available for military veterans who are working to start businesses.
Breck Dumas, writer for TheBlaze.com, discusses the potential precedents Congress has set with the impeachment of President Trump.
Christian Miller, PhD, from Wake Forest University, discusses the content of his book, The Character Gap. The conversation includes information on how most people fail to live up to the level of character we think we have. He also discusses ways to improve our personal character.
Adam Hyde, PhD, from Wake Forest University discusses a new research project he is leading – the “Happiness Index”. That’s an effort to measure personal and community happiness and use the information to influence public policy.
Cully Stimson from the Heritage Foundation discusses the current effort to limit the President’s ability to order military strikes in Iran.
Jim Otteson, PhD, of Wake Forest University, discusses the content of his book, Honorable Business. That conversation covers business ethics and the role business has in community and economy.
This show was produced at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. A special thanks goes to WFDD radio for their hospitality.
Nicole Neily from Speech First discusses free speech and public universities. Her organization is suing Iowa State University over new rules that ban some forms of speech on campus including sidewalk chalking and emailing support for political candidates or causes with student email accounts.
Antony Davies from the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE) discusses his recent op-ed on civility in our culture at a time of political polarization.
Billy Binion from Reason magazine discusses governmental responses to “gig economy” jobs such as freelance writers, ride sharing drivers, and others who are not technically employees but work for specific companies.
The American Conservative's Kelly Vlahos assesses the tension between the US and Iran following an attack on a US embassy, a military strike that killed Iran’s top general, and a retaliatory strike against US facilities.
Professor Gregory Magarian, Law Professor at Washington University in St. Louis and author of Managed Speech: The Roberts Court’s First Amendment, discusses his recent op-ed about changing attitudes toward free speech. He discusses an increase in opposition to the freedom of speech by those who feel that hurts social progress. Magarian also talks about the changing legal attitudes about free speech as more communication moves to social media.
Howard Wall, PhD, Director of the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise, assesses the economic effect of some current tax, spending, and regulatory ideas being promoted by President Trump and some of the Democratic presidential candidates.
Charles Hernick from Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions discusses the proposed United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement that, as of production time, has been approved by the US House but is awaiting consideration by the US Senate. Hernick discusses the economic and environmental impact the agreement could have.
Washington Post columnist Henry Olsen analyzes the recent historic event of the President’s impeachment. He discusses the political effect and cultural effect it is having on the country.
Bankrate.com’s Greg McBride provides an outlook for 2020 on interest rates and overall financial issues. Some financial advice is included in the discussion.
The Center for a Free Economy’s Ryan Ellis discusses proposals to put price caps on prescription medicines. His organization, and dozens of other ones, are opposing the idea because they believe it will lead to a shortage of available medicines in the future.
Reason Magazine Associate Editor Scott Shackford discusses an article in the current edition about an effort in Philadelphia to allow a legal “injection site” to get users off the streets. The conversation includes public health and public safety.
Heritage Foundation Research Fellow Rachel Greszler discusses her recent testimony on Capitol Hill before a House committee regarding proposals to mandate paid leave for private sector workers in America. She discusses the possible economic impact.
Host Mike Ferguson provides news updates on health issues from Public News Service and the Mayo Clinic. A commentary on parenting young athletes in also in the segment and advice on smart holiday shopping is provided.
Host Mike Ferguson explains a recent situation that involved racism in real life and hatred that followed online when he tweeted about it. The focus of the segment is the culturally harmful practice of “trolling” political opponents, those with differences of opinion on cultural issues and trends, and the use of hatred in our discourse.
Gretchen Smith from Code of Vets explains their mission and work to help veterans who are in crisis life situations.
Rebecca Phoenix from the Better Business Bureau provides advice on how to avoid scams during holiday shopping and how to make sure your charitable donations are going to legitimate non profits.
Host Mike Ferguson provides advice from Better Angels on how to keep peace in the family during the holidays when people disagree about politics, culture, religion, etc. This segment also has news updates on holiday safety, a medical viewpoint on addiction to electronics, and advice on quitting smoking.
Filmmaker Elle Mercurio-Cherrier discusses her new horror movie, “Claimed”, and why she’s directing all the profits from it to a non profit organization that helps those battling opioid and heroin addictions.
Pulitzer-nominated author and business executive Clifton Taulbert discusses how he overcame the disadvantages of growing up in the US deep south in the Jim Crow era to succeed as a business owner, banker, and top consultant.
Prof. Amber Hinsely from St. Louis University discusses “real news” and “fake news” in the current divisive political environment. She also offers advice on how to be a better news and information consumer.
Host Mike Ferguson has reports from the Mayo Clinic (healthy eating), the Family Minute (recognizing stress and pressure being felt by teens), and Public News Service (a Library of Congress project to better record the stories of US veterans).
Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative founder Gary Schoeniger, also the co-author of Who Owns The Ice House, discusses what entrepreneurial thinking is and why the concept should be taught more. Schoeniger addresses the myths and realities of what entrepreneurialism is/is not and why he believes the concept should be used by everyone even if they are not an entrepreneur.
Bankrate.com data analyst Adrian Garcia discusses a new survey that says a large portion of the US population feels pressured to overspend during the holiday season. Garcia explains the findings, how overspending happens for many people, and offers advice on controlling personal and family spending.
Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt explains why he and most other Attorneys General are jointly investigating Google. Schmitt says the company may be engaging in anti-competitive practices. He also discusses a joint investigation into Facebook regarding privacy concerns. Schmitt also briefly describes new efforts to scam senior citizens through phone calls.
Bankrate.com Chief Financial Analyst Greg McBride discusses a recent survey that shows the majority of Americans are not financially prepared for a recession. McBride also provides information about goals individuals and families should consider for their finances and tips on reaching them.
Trey Kovacs from the Competitive Enterprise Institute provides an update that affects public sector union rules by the US Department of Labor. The changes address the ability of government employees to be released from their job duties and conduct union business instead.
Stephen Moore is an economist often featured on FOX News, FOX Business, and in publications including The Wall Street Journal. He explains how the instability in Venezuela could affect gas and consumer goods prices in the US. Moore also offers ideas on what he thinks Congress and President Trump should do regarding economic policy.
Nicole Neily is the founder of Speech First, a pro-free speech advocacy group that addresses limits on the right to free speech on college campuses. Neily discusses the importance of the right to free speech both in an educational setting and for American culture as a whole. She also discusses some current free speech controversies.
Host Mike Ferguson provides information on the arrest of an international child pornography ring operator. Other updates in the segment include advice for parents on preventing children from becoming addicted to video games, medical advice from the Mayo Clinic, and an update on a change in federal policy on unemployment benefits. The report from Public News Service has reaction to a new rule that allows states to require drug testing before someone can receive unemployment benefits.
Austin Berg from the Illinois Policy Institute discusses their recent findings when researching the use of red light cameras to ticket drivers. The study focused on their state but the patterns of the red light camera practice are similar nationwide. Berg discusses the role the cameras have in revenue generation and the affect they have on traffic safety.
Kelley Vlahos from the American Conservative assesses the status of the Democratic race for President. She discusses the recent debate and comments on challenges the eventual nominee might have in connecting with some voters, particularly those in the middle of the country.
James Carafano from the Heritage Foundation, widely respected as one of America’s leading commentators of foreign affairs, assesses the situation in Syria/Turkey. Carafano explains how it could affect the United States’ interest in the Middle East.
Ciaran O’Conner from Better Angels describes their work to teach Americans how to learn from those with differing political and social opinions. The effort is designed to address the division in the nation over politics in particular but also to decrease the personal and society harm that division brings. Better Angels is non partisan and does not address specific issues. It works to increase community and societal unity by helping people understand those with whom they disagree.
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Bob Kendrick, President of the National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City (MO), discusses the importance of the history of the Negro Leagues to the entire nation. He explains why that history includes not only the players but the business and entrepreneurship that happened during baseball’s segregated era and how everyone can learn from that.
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Host Mike Ferguson discusses two articles in the current Reason magazine involving restrictions on employment and the overall concept of rethinking those, and other, occupational licensing and restriction laws. Also, the segment includes a health minute report from the Mayo Clinic focused on mental health and hoarding behavior.
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Heather Reams from Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions discusses some of the current environmental and energy-related debates in America. She addresses why she believes conservatives should be more aggressive in shaping public policy.
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Mark Hamrick, economic analyst at Bankrate.com, discusses a recent survey-based study they did to determine how Americans handle personal finances. Included in the discussion are the differences in financial priorities people have art different ages, who is most likely to have a working budget, and budgeting advice for all demographics.
Washington Free Beacon writer Charles Lehman comments on the cultural movement sometimes called “Cancel Culture” where online and physical protests demand boycott, loss of employment, etc against someone who says or does something that offends the protesters. Lehman makes a case that technology (social media) contributes to past mistakes or offenses being remembered more than they were in generations past. He also discusses cultural elements of the trend.
Washington Examiner Brad Polumbo critiques the current environmental movement and related political activism. Polumbo, discussing his recent column, argues that environmental protection efforts have been coopted by an effort to implement socialism-based economic policies.
Former Deputy Assistant US Attorney General John Malcolm, now the director of the Meese Center for Legal and Judicial Studies at the Heritage Foundation, explains the Constitutional process of impeachment of a US President. He also discusses the history of the option and the role it is designed to have in our political process. This is in response to the news that Speaker Nancy Pelosi is beginning the formal process towards an impeachment effort.
Host Mike Ferguson has a news report from Colorado on the use of community gardens and how they are benefiting minority and immigrant communities. A commentary offers advice on how parents can help teenagers learn from their mistakes.
Tarra Jackson, known as “Madam Money” provides personal financial advice, focusing on savings. She stresses emergency savings but also recommends spending extra on some insurance policies, including product insurance on things like cell phones, to protect your savings.
Marcus Witcher, PhD, from the University of Central Arkansas discusses his new book, Getting Right With Reagan. The book examines the political and cultural legacy of President Ronald Reagan and how his tenure in office continues to affect today’s political and policy discussions.
Tim Jones, former Missouri Speaker of the House now with the Job Creators Network, assesses national politics, particularly controversies related to the US Supreme Court. Jones also discusses the current campaigns for president.
Two health news reports are included in this segment. One from the Mayo Clinic that explains some of the benefits of team sports for elementary-aged students. These include social skills and character building in addition to physical exercise. The other is from Public News Service and reports on research linking healthy blood pressure to better cognitive ability later in life.
Lauren Bauer from the Brookings Institute discusses their research about the graduation rates of those who enroll in college. About 50% of those who begin a college education will not finish a bachelor’s degree. Bauer talks about some options designed to increase the graduation rate and about the benefits for the students and for their communities.
Reason magazine senior editor Jacob Sullem discusses freedom of speech and the claim being made by conservative advocate Dennis Prager that YouTube and Google are violating conservatives’ First Amendment rights. Sullem provides a different perspective while talking about his column “YouTube Is Not The Government.”
Curt Mills from The American Conservative magazine discusses the news of National Security Advisor John Bolton’s resignation, at President Trump’s request, from that role. Mills assesses the affect of the change on US foreign policy and on US domestic policy.
Bankrate.com credit analyst Ted Rossman discusses a recent article in which he is quoted about millennials and credit denial rates. Basically, millennials are more likely to be denied a financial product due to credit ratings. Rossman explains why this is happening, the effect on this age group, and he offers advice for helping them and younger people build credit scores responsibly.
Michelle Minton from the Competitive Enterprise Institute discusses recent executive action taken by the Governor of Michigan to essentially ban most vaping and e-cigarette products. Minton explains research data on these products and argues against some of the approaches to regulating them that are happening around the nation.
Better Business Bureau investigator Rebecca Phoenix provides advice on avoiding scams that happen during times of disaster. She discusses ways to make sure your charitable donations are going to legitimate charities, especially in situations such as hurricane relief efforts that are happening right now.
Art Carden, PhD, from Samford University discusses his recent article on Forbes.com that calls for an elimination of laws that ban “price gouging” during disasters. Carden says such laws actually hurt the people most in need of supplies and services. He talks about the economics of disasters and the moral case that is counter-intuitive to many people.
You've heard of First Aid to deal with medical emergencies. There's also a mental health version of that basic training. Tramaine El-Amin from the National Council for Behavioral Health explains what it is and why you should consider taking the training.
Mike Chase, of the @CrimeADay Twitter fame, discusses his book, How To Become A Federal Criminal.
The book highlights some of the most ridiculous laws on our books. Chase talks about how we get these kinds of laws and the effect of over regulation and too much criminal law.
Many members of Congress and several activist groups are promoting what they call the "Green New Deal". Among them, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Charles Hernick from Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions explains why he thinks the "Green New Deal" plan is a bad idea.
Judicial Watch's Bob Popper, head of the organization's Election Integrity project, discusses constitutional law, and election policy at the federal and state levels. Popper also talks about their lawsuit against the State of California, which passed a law that requires presidential candidates to disclose personal tax returns before being allowed on the ballot in that state.
Can we protect endangered and threatened species by relying more on private property owners and less on the federal government?
When it comes to the Endangered Species Act, that's the approach being taken. Megan Hansen from the Center for Growth and Opportunity (at Utah State University) supports the changes and explains why.
The Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs' Trent England talks about his "Save Our States" project: an effort to convince Americans to keep the Electoral College in use when we pick a president every four years.
England explains some of the history of the EC and why it was designed in the first place and he discusses efforts to move the nation away from an electoral system and to a popular vote system.
Saint Louis University communications professor, Amber Hinsley, PhD, responds to President Trump's assertion that the internet (among other things) is to blame for tragedies like the recent mass shootings. She also offers advice on how to be a smart news consumer, especially during times of confusion and tragedy.
Dave Ray from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) calls in from the US-Mexico border after touring an ICE detention facility. He provides a perspective on the conditions there, the reporting about it, and the debate over illegal immigration policy.
Pretty much everyone hates those robocalls. They are often scams and people still fall for them.
The National Consumer Law Center's Lauren Saunders explains what kind of changes they want to see in federal law to protect consumers from fraudulent calls better.
Saunders also discusses the recent Capitol One data breach and what you can do to protect yourself.
Utah State Rep. Eric Hutchings (R) discusses the push for what supporters call "Clean Slate" legislation that expunges some criminal records after a set amount of time.
Utah is the second state to adopt some version of "Clean Slate" criminal justice reform.
Should your state consider a "Clean Slate" approach to criminal justice?
Can your faith and your business in the secular world coincide and thrive...together?
Rick Boxx, CEO of the Unconventional Business Network, explains their faith-based approach to business and entrepreneurship.
Can a Christian-centric approach to business work in a diverse world? Boxx answers some tough questions about that.
Mike found some great advice for saving money - and anyone can do it. He explains nine tips from America Saves.
This segment also includes a report from Public News Service on the possibility of allowing medicines to be brought in from Canada, which would lower the cost for patients. The segment also has a report from the Mayo Clinic on how to tell if you need to get your child's hearing checked.
Some of the country's most powerful union leaders are sending a message to the Democratic presidential candidates: don't take our support for granted.
The Blaze.com's Breck Dumas explains why they are saying that and whether the Democrats should actually worry about losing support from part of their most loyal base.
Medicare for all? Is that a good idea?
The Discovery Institute's Wesley Smith pushes back against calls to expand government-run health care at the expense of private insurance. Is that protecting patients or supporting insurance company greed?
Should your donation to advocacy groups - even political ones - be kept private? Or should those donations be made public?
David Keating from the Institute for Free Speech discusses that and argues for donor privacy.
Eileen Ambrose, one of Kiplinger Magazine's senior editors, discusses her recent article on managing your relationship with your financial advisor. Specifically, when should you fire them?
Ambrose also offers advise on picking the right person to handle your investments and provide that advice.
Congress, both Republicans and Democrats, agree on at least one thing: that they would not balance the budget and that the debt will increase under the latest spending plan.
Ivan Eland from the Independent Institute explains how the increase in the federal debt affects us all.
"Economics" doesn't have to be a scary word for kids (or us adults). Dr. Tawni Ferrarini from the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise discusses their "Common Sense Economics" material they offer schools. Dr. Ferrarini is one of the coauthors of _Common Sense Economics_.
It makes financial and economic literacy possible for young children so they can build their own stable financial future and avoid some of the mistakes others make just because we don't know the basics of handling and saving money.
Dave Ray from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) provides a different perspective on immigration policy than the one Josh Smith from the Center for Growth and Opportunity provided a couple weeks ago.
Ray says the public is not being told the accurate story of the conditions at the US/Mexican border and about the economic and social impacts of our current immigration system, particularly when it comes to dealing with illegal immigration.
Are consumers (you) being harmed by the few "big tech" companies that are dominating the online marketplace?
The Competitive Enterprise Institute's Jessica Melugin continues our look at some Congress members' eagerness to add regulations on social media and other tech companies, even to the point of vowing to break them up the way phone companies were a few decades ago.
Call it "Big Tech" if you want but online marketplaces and communication platforms have changed our lives and will continue to change our lives.
What's the right balance between consumer protection, allowing a free market, and innovation? The Mercatus Center's Jennifer Huddleston researches how governments try to regulate the internet and she gives us an interesting perspective this week.
The Mueller testimony is over, so where do things stand politically for President Trump? For Democratic lawmakers (especially the ones running for president)?
More importantly, what does it mean to you?
Project 21's Chris Arps joins Mike to assess the report, the testimony, the media coverage, and what's next.
Project 21 is the nation's largest network of Black conservatives.
Josh Smith from the Center for Growth and Opportunity argues for more immigration into the US.
The Center for Growth and Opportunity is based at Utah State University.
Can there be consensus on a smart energy plan for the US?
Charles Hernick from Citizens for Responsible Energy solutions says there can be and that nuclear energy should be something both the left and the right agree on.
Former Missouri State Senator John Loudon now leads Citizen Voters (CitizenVoters.vote) in hopes of amending all 50 state constitutions in America. Their proposal is simple: to specify that only US citizens are allowed to vote in elections.
Some cities are now allowing non citizens to vote in local elections.
Former Federal Election Commissioner Hans Von Spakovsky responds to claims that President Trump is willing to violate federal law by accepting information about opponents. Spakovsky is now with the Heritage Foundation and also discusses some other election-related controversies, including whether or not states can require a candidate to disclose their tax returns before being allowed on the ballot.
Image courtesy of C-Span
The Daily Caller's Kerry Picket (also a talk show host on Sirius XM) provides an update on US politics, particularly on the tensions and hostility in Congress.
Are you saving enough money? According to multiple research studies, probably not.
Lindsay Ferguson (no relation to Mike) from AmericaSaves.com has some tips to make saving money easier than you may think, no matter what your income and budget may be.
Boston University's Dr. Lawrence Kotlikoff is an economist and one of America's foremost experts on our Social Security system. He gives us some ideas on how to maximize your money that goes into the system so you are not short changed when it's time to retire.
The cost is going up, so shouldn't the value go up as well?
Here's another way to ask the question: are college degrees worth the money now?
Phil Magness American from the Institute for Economic Research says we should all be concerned about the state of higher education in America. He's one of the authors of the new book, Cracks In The Ivory Tower (with Jason Brennan), which takes a critical look at America's college and university systems.
The "Janus case" was a major US Supreme Court decision about labor unions and government workers. Patrick Hughes from the Liberty Justice Center is the lawyer and won that case on behalf of Mark Janus.
Hughes explains why he and the LJC believes many states and public sector unions are not complying with that ruling. He says they are not allowing workers to leave the union and are trying to force them to continue paying dues.
Another round of lawsuits is underway. Hughes explains why those were filed.
Tragically, it wasn't the "War To End All Wars" but the World War I reshaped the world, especially the United States.
Dr. Matt Naylor, president of the The National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, MO, explains why that conflict is still important to us all today.
"Hope and restoration"
She survived a brutal crime and now works to make sure other victims get the services, support, and justice from our criminal and judicial system.
Kim Case is among the leading voices for victim's rights in America.
America's best-known tax fighter has some thoughts on the proposal to cancel all college student loan debt. Americans For Tax Reform's Grover Norquist also talks about a tax increase proposal you may not have heard about - the idea of a carbon tax is back
Just over a week after American terrorist group Antifa attacks more people with whom they disagree, Mike offers his thoughts on the increasing political violence in America.
George Mason University's Dr. Bruce Yandle, a distinguished fellow at the Mercatus Center, provides an overview of how tariffs affect our economy and, more specifically, you as a consumer.
He assesses President Trump's argument for using tariffs as leverage in international trade negotiations.
This is the second part of a two-part discussion.
George Mason University's Dr. Bruce Yandle, a distinguished fellow at the Mercatus Center, provides an overview of how tariffs affect our economy and, more specifically, you as a consumer.
He assesses President Trump's argument for using tariffs as leverage in international trade negotiations.
This is the first of a two-part discussion.
In Washington, he's known as one of the top experts on foreign affairs around. The Heritage Foundation's James Carafano sat down with Mike to assess the growing tensions between the US and Iran.
Carafano explains the conflicting interests of the two nations, why the region is so important to economies around the world, and what it means to us here in the US.
US Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and US Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) are proposing a cancellation of over a trillion dollars of student loan debt, with the cost being paid by a new tax on investments.
As part of their support for the idea, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Sanders argue that cancelling the debt is morally the right thing to do. Mike disagrees and in this segment, he offers a moral argument against the plan.
Mary Jackson from the Online Lenders Alliance explains why her organization is pushing back against new regulations on short term lending.
Often maligned as "predatory lending", are short term (and high interest) loans actually good for some people? The bigger question is whether or not the government should stop a lender and borrow from making a deal, good or bad.
Former Missouri Speaker of the House Tim Jones (R) discusses the controversy over Harvard University's rescinding their acceptance of Kyle Kashuv. Kashuv, the Parkland mass shooting survivor-turned conservative activist had been accepted until racist texts he sent when he was 16 publicly surfaced.
Jones discusses accusations of political bias and how mistakes of the past can follow and harm people's careers years later, even after they change.
Curtis Kalin from Citizens Against Government Waste discusses the findings in their new "Pig Book", which outlines what they believe is wasteful spending of taxpayers' money by the federal government.
If Congress isn't writing the regulations, who is?
After a year-long research project into the US Department of Health and Human Services, the Pacific Legal Foundation says many regulations on us and our businesses is being written (and enforced) by people who are not accountable to voters or even, sometimes, to those appointed by the President.
Clint Brown discusses what they found and why they have filed legal action in hopes of forcing changes to how the rules on our lives are written.
It's not just about trending hashtags, Human Liberty 2.0 tells the stories of how some activists used social media, websites, and other online tools to take on tyrannical governments and actually make changes in the "real world".
Author Matt Daniels, PhD, talks about the future of pro-freedom activism in the digital age.Daniels is the Chair of Human Rights at the Institute of World Politics in Washington, DC.
Ed Choice's Mike McShane, PhD, discusses the state of public education in America and options to improve elementary and secondary education throughout the nation.
He says school choice should be nationwide so children and their families can customize their education to fit their needs.
McShane's views are likely to be very unpopular with public school administrators and teachers' unions.
Nila Bala, Senior Fellow and Associate Director of Criminal Justice and Civil Liberties for the R. Street Institute explains why she believes there should be public investment into higher education for people serving prison sentences.
This includes the use of PELL Grants.
Bala describes why she thinks this is a good investment for the nation and for local communities, in addition to being good for the prisoners and their families. Among her reasons is a reduced percentage of recidivism.
Better Angels wants us to talk about the political issues that divide us, but not necessarily in order to find a compromise or to change someone's mind. As Ciaran O'Connor explains in this interview, they hope we can overcome the partisan tribalism that seems to divide us beyond politics and separates us as people.
It's not just baseball. It's not just history. It's an important part of American history.
Bob Kendrick, President of the National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, talks about the history of the game and the men who built the third-largest African-American industry during the segregation era of our nation.
Bob gives us some insight into the game, the context of the Negro Leagues' place in our history, and the reasons it all still matters today.
A couple of articles in the current edition of Reason magazine piqued host Mike Ferguson's interest. He discusses the columns that focus on laws regarding some specific jobs.
In Oregon and New Jersey, the law still requires most (in many areas, all) gas stations to be full service, meaning that you're not allowed to pump your own gas and gas stations are required to pay a cost that isn't required in most other states.
In California, inmates are trained and put to work fighting wildfires each year alongside professional firefighters. However, once the inmates complete their sentence, they are barred by law from being hired as a professional firefighter. Mike covers why they aren't allowed and gives his take on the policy.
Heather Reams from Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions explains why she thinks Republicans/conservatives should try to lead on environmental/conservation issues.
For about 17 years, Christine McDonald was sold for sex. Now she's a human trafficking survivor who uses her experience to help others escape "the life".
McDonald explains some of the ways predators find their victims and trap them in the human trafficking underground.
McDonald is the author of Cry Purple and The Same Kind of Human.
Rich States, Poor States.
What puts some states on the list of the former...and the latter?
The American Legislative Exchange Council's Chief Economist, Jonathan Williams, explains what those lists mean and how they came up with the formula for their annual "Rich States, Poor States" rankings.
Some politicians say we're in the midst of a student loan crisis. Are we?
Economist Howard Wall, PhD is the Director of the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise at Lindenwood University (St. Charles, MO). He assesses those claims and explains what could happen to the economy - and taxpayers - if student loan debt were just wiped out to any significant degree, as some are suggesting.
Summertime and the livin' is...hungry?
Zuani Villarreal from Feeding America busts some myths about hunger in America. Once the school year ends, hundreds of thousands of children in America lose access to at least one mean each weekday. Zuani explains why.
She also tells us who the often-unseen face of hunger is today. This information surprised Mike. It might surprise you.
Can we have our heart in the right place but our brain in the wrong one?
James Whitford from the True Charity Initiative discusses the tough questions about charity in America. For instance, can we actually hurt people when we're trying to help them?
Whitford agrees with authors including Robert Lupton (Toxic Charity) say we need to rethink how we help those in need.
Washington Post columnist Henry Olsen assess the race for the Democratic nomination for President, such as it is right now.
The conversation addresses the addition of former Vice President Joe Biden to the mix.
Olsen also compares what he thinks is a difference between how far left high profile Democrats, including many presidential candidates, are right now and where many Democratic voters are ideologically. Basically, are the current standard-bearers for the party reflective of the typical Democratic voter?
Is social media making your kid (or YOU) less happy?
That's actually a scientific question now. Tim Bono, PhD is a professor and researcher at Washington University in St. Louis. His book, When Likes Aren't Enough, is the result of the research he's done over more than a decade.
He explains why using Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms can harm someone's happiness and, more importantly, what we can all do about it.
Here's the first segment of the first American Viewpoints!
Mike and Project 21's Chris Arps ask and discuss a basic question: can we disagree with someone on politics and still be civil? Maybe even still like and respect them?