Radio America Online News Bureau

Debt & Deficits

Americans Want Smaller Government, How the Tariffs Hurt Russia, Stephen A. Smith for President?

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Listen to “Americans Demand Smaller Government, How the Tariffs Hurt Russia, Stephen A. Smith for President?” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss breaking news in the New Hampshire Senate race, a poll showing strong public demand for lower federal spending, how Trump-era tariffs may end up weakening Russia, and the strange presidential buzz surrounding ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.

First, just two days after President Trump publicly backed former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu for U.S. Senate, Sununu has announced he will not enter the race. Jim and Greg briefly assess how this could impact Republican chances of flipping the seat in 2026.

Next, they dig into a new Wall Street Journal poll showing more than two-thirds of Americans want federal spending cut. While not all support the GOP’s approach, the poll confirms deep frustration with nearly $37 trillion in national debt and massive annual deficits. Jim questions how many Americans would agree on where to cut, while Greg recalls the narrow political window when this debt crisis might have been averted in the 1990s.

Then, they’re pleased to see one way Trump’s tariff strategy is already creating pressure on Russia. One of the side effects of the new policy is that oil prices are down significantly since last week. Jim tells us how sustained lower prices could spell big trouble for Putin economically and militarily.

Finally, they roll their eyes at growing chatter about ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith running for president in 2028. And now Smith himself is saying he’s starting to think about it. Smith gained attention last year for supporting Kamala Harris but frequently calling out Democrats for being out of touch – especially on some key cultural issues. Jim and Greg dismiss the hype and even joke that Smith wouldn’t be the best presidential pick at ESPN.

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Democrats Deeply Divided, Virginia GOP’s Uphill Battle, Another House Dem Dies

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Listen to “Democrats Deeply Divided, Virginia GOP’s Uphill Battle, Another House Dem Dies” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for the Friday 3 Martini Lunch as they break down deep divisions among Democrats over the spending bill, the Virginia GOP’s steep challenges in this year’s elections, and the House Democrats losing two members in just over a week.

First, Republicans finally get a chance to watch Democrats openly feud over whether to pass a spending bill to prevent a partial government shutdown. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer now reluctantly supports the bill, sparking an intense backlash from progressives. Jim also explains how Democrats are struggling to accept their minority status in Congress.

Next, they wince at the prospects for Virginia Republicans in this year’s elections. They usually don’t go well for the party that holds the White House. Virginia is also home to the second most federal employees in the nation, and the DOGE cuts are likely to be unpopular in the DC suburbs. Republicans do have an excellent candidate in Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears, but will the headwinds against her be too strong?

Finally, they discuss the passing of Arizona Rep. Raul Grijalva, marking the second House Democrat to die in under two weeks. They note the oddity of Grijalva’s X account continuing to post after his death and also examine how these vacancies will impact the House until special elections are held to fill those vacancies.

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Zeldin’s EPA Overhaul, Russia Rejects Ceasefire, Buttigieg Eyes White House Over Senate

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Listen to “Zeldin’s EPA Overhaul, Russia Rejects Ceasefire, Buttigieg Eyes White House Over Senate” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss badly needed regulatory relief coming soon from the EPA, Russia rejecting a ceasefire with Ukraine while demanding more concessions, and Pete Buttigieg’s decision to skip a U.S. Senate run to focus on a 2028 presidential bid.

First, after clarifying a point from Wednesday’s podcast, they cheer EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for targeting several of the most burdensome environmental regulations. Zeldin maintains that these rollbacks will cut costs and ease restrictions on businesses and families without compromising environmental standards.

Next, they analyze Russia’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine and insisting on more concessions before any serious negotiations. Jim argues that Vladimir Putin wouldn’t honor any deal he signs, while Greg asks how President Trump could pressure Russia into reconsidering its position.

Finally, they react to reports that former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg won’t run for U.S. Senate in Michigan and is instead eyeing a 2028 White House bid. They highlight his lack of achievements and Jim explains why he thinks the Democrats need a very different type of candidate in the next campaign.

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Trump Wants Stronger Navy, Newsom Shifts on Women’s Sports, Maxine Waters Accuses Musk

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Listen to “Trump Wants Stronger Navy, Newsom Shifts on Women’s Sports, Maxine Waters Accuses Musk” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for the 3 Martini Lunch as they applaud President Trump’s push for a stronger Navy, question Gavin Newsom’s sudden shift on a major cultural issue, and react to Rep. Maxine Waters’ wild accusations against Elon Musk.

First, they welcome Trump’s renewed focus on expanding the Navy with more warships and submarines to strengthen deterrence and project U.S. power globally. With America’s naval capabilities lagging, Jim notes that allied cooperation will be crucial to rebuilding dominance on the seas.

Next, they analyze why California Gov. Gavin Newsom is now admitting that allowing males in girls’ sports is unfair. Is this a genuine policy shift, or just political posturing towards a likely presidential bid? Jim wonders whether the Democrats are finally ready to drop this losing issue and whether they will try to make the public forget they were ever in favor of allowing men to compete against women.

Finally, they react as Rep. Maxine Waters claims Elon Musk somehow manipulated the 2024 election and suggests he should be deported. Jim dismantles her conspiracy theories and highlights the irony of targeting a legal immigrant while ignoring other border issues.

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Assessing The Start of Trump’s Second Term: Economy, Foreign Policy, and Culture

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Listen to “Assessing The Start of Trump’s Second Term: Economy, Foreign Policy, and Culture” on Spreaker.

Before heading out on his trip, Jim and Greg recorded a special episode analyzing the Trump administration’s early weeks, covering key issues from the economy to foreign policy and cultural battles.

First, they break down the economy. Jim highlights Trump’s positive moves on taxes and deregulation but warns that tariffs, particularly against Canada and Mexico, could backfire. Greg focuses on DOGE’s efforts to track government spending and the Democrats’ unhinged reaction to the audit. But will it lead to real fiscal responsibility? He’s skeptical.

Next, they assess foreign affairs. Jim notes that Iran and its proxies have curbed their aggression under Trump, and decisive action is being taken against terrorists. However, he criticizes Trump’s habit of publicly chastising U.S. allies. Greg argues that Trump’s unpredictability is a strength but warns he must be ready for the consequences of issuing ultimatums.

Finally, they tackle cultural issues. Jim praises Trump for rooting out DEI from the federal government but cautions that some newfound conservative allies—like those opposing men in women’s sports—won’t align on other issues. Greg agrees Trump has handled the major cultural fights well but stresses that he must stay focused on core voter concerns: inflation and immigration.

Oh, and if you hear Jim and Greg joking about a calamity prompting this episode, don’t worry—they’re both fine! Jim is set to return for regular episodes early next week.

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Bezos’ Pro-Freedom Op-Ed Page, Dems’ Immigrant Hypocrisy, Media’s Inflation Double Standard

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Listen to “Bezos’ Pro-Freedom Op-Ed Page, Dems’ Immigrant Hypocrisy, Media’s Inflation Double Standard” on Spreaker.

Hillsdale College Radio General Manager and Radio Free Hillsdale Hour Host Scot Bertram fills in for Jim on 3 Martini Lunch. Join Scot and Greg as they discuss Jeff Bezos’ pledge to make The Washington Post’s op-ed page a champion of personal and economic freedom, the blatant hypocrisy of Democrats on immigration, and the media’s shifting narrative on inflation.

First, they cautiously welcome Bezos’ public commitment to discussing the virtues of personal liberty and free markets. While they dislike his stance that opposing views won’t be featured, they appreciate that arguments for limited government will reach a wider audience.

Next, they highlight the astonishing hypocrisy of congressional Democrats. After years of condemning Trump’s deportation policies, they’ve suddenly found an immigrant they don’t trust. Ohio Rep. Marcy Kaptur is now questioning Elon Musk’s loyalty to the U.S. because he’s only been in the country for 22 years.

Finally, they call out the media’s sudden concern over rising egg prices after years of downplaying inflation under Biden. While they agree Trump isn’t responsible for the cost of eggs, they note voters will soon demand real results from him on both food prices and overall inflation.

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McConnell Won’t Run Again, More Hamas Horrors, DOGE Cuts & ‘Malicious Compliance’

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Listen to “McConnell Won’t Run Again, More Hamas Horrors, DOGE Cuts & ‘Malicious Compliance'” on Spreaker.

Inez Stepman of the Independent Women’s Forum fills in for Jim on the 3 Martini Lunch podcast. Join Inez and Greg as they discuss Sen. Mitch McConnell announcing he won’t run again, the latest unspeakable atrocities committed by Hamas, and how federal agencies are making DOGE-related budget cuts painful for the public.

First, they analyze Mitch McConnell’s decision to retire after 42 years in the Senate and 18 years as GOP leader, and they assess his performance. They credit McConnell for defending free speech, blocking left-wing policies, and confirming conservative judicial nominees. However, they criticize his failure to address federal spending and his lack of progress on conservative priorities during Republican control of the Senate.

Next, Inez and Greg express their outrage over the latest atrocities perpetrated by Hamas, including a gruesome ceremony involving the return of hostages’ remains and reports detailing how the two young brothers who were brutally murdered. In addition,  the remains of their mother, Shiri Bibas, were excluded from the return to Israel. With Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing reprisals, Inez and Greg reflect on the critical details of the Bibas family’s abduction and the role of the Red Cross in facilitating the spectacle we saw this week.

Inez and Greg discuss government-run sites making DOGE-related budget cuts as painful as possible for visitors. They highlight three instances of “malicious compliance” and recall past government shutdown tactics used by Democrats to needlessly inconvenience the public.

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Kamala Mangles MSNBC Interview, NYC Mayor Indicted, Biden Gaslights on Retirement

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Listen to “Kamala’s Confusing MSNBC Interview, NYC Mayor Adams Indicted, Biden Gaslights on 2024 Decision” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg as they assess Kamala’s weak performance on MSNBC, New York City Mayor Eric Adams getting indicted in a federal foreign bribery case, and President Biden trying to gaslight America and the world about why he’s not still running for president.
First, they get a kick out of Kamala Harris struggling mightily to answer very basic questions from MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle. Harris seemed to have no insights on tariffs or what she would do if Congress didn’t pass a corporate tax increase if she were elected. She also delivered another notorious word salad. Jim and Greg debate whether her poor performance is due to incompetence or an attempt to conceal her radical agenda.
Next, they react to New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ federal indictment for allegedly taking bribes from Turkish officials to expedite a questionable construction project. They discuss the implosion of Adams’ administration, whether his criticism of the migrant crisis played a role in the indictment, and the disgraced figure who may be eyeing a political comeback.
Finally, they debunk President Biden’s claim that his decision to step down in July was a selfless move for the good of the nation. Jim and Greg argue that Biden’s narrative, presented during his U.N. speech and appearance on The View, overlooks pressure from top Democrats pushing him out of the 2024 race.

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Hamas Murders Hostages, Illegals Causing Criminal Chaos, The Constitution Is a Threat?

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Listen to “Hamas Murders Hostages, Illegals Causing Criminal Chaos, The Constitution Is a Threat?” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for three lousy martinis that all have a strong crazy streak too. After Greg recaps his visit to the Calvin Coolidge presidential site in Vermont, they condemn Hamas for murdering  hostages as well as the Biden administration’s reaction. They also shudder as illegals are comprising a huge percentage of arrests in New York City but the laws are working against the law-abiding public. And they tear apart a New York Times column for saying the Constitution may be a threat to our politics.

First, they recoil at Hamas murdering six hostages, including American Hersh Goldberg-Polin. But they’re also staggered that the immediate media and Biden administration reaction is to put more pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cut a deal with the bloodthirsty terrorists who orchestrated the October 7th attacks and just slaughtered several innocent people.

Next, they fume as police sources in New York report that 75 percent of assault, robbery, and domestic violence arrests in Midtown Manhattan are of illegal immigrants, and they estimate the number to be 60 percent in Queens. If that weren’t bad enough, they explain how sanctuary city laws mean the perpetrators are often freed and officers can’t check their legal status or work with Immigration & Customs Enforcement.

Finally, they shake their heads as a New York Times column suggests the Constitution is a threat to our politics because of undemocratic aspects like the Electoral College and small states getting the same number of senators as larger states. Oh, and they they say the originalist bent of the current Supreme Court is a problem because the justices dare to seek out what the Founding Fathers meant when they wrote the Constitution.

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Harris Picks Walz, Why Markets Are Volatile, Why You Shouldn’t Panic

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Listen to “Harris Picks Walz, Why Markets Are Volatile, Why You Shouldn’t Panic” on Spreaker.

Brian Wesbury, Chief Economist at First Trust LP and the former Chief Economist for the Joint Economic Committee of Congress, is in for Jim. Today, Brian and Greg dissect Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate and why it may be a gift to the GOP. Brian also explains why the markets are in turmoil right now, why you shouldn’t panic over it, and more.

First, they respond to the breaking news that Harris-Walz will be the ticket for Democrats in 2024. They explain why this is the furthest left ticket in recent memory and why it gives Donald Trump and JD Vance ample opportunities to expose how far out of the mainstream Harris and Walz really are. And they discuss the Walz record in Minnesota – from his disastrous handling of the 2020 riots to his far left economic and social positions.

Next, Brian goes through the factors leading to the major volatility in world markets over the past several days. He says we are largely paying the price for terrible policies enacted during the Covid pandemic and he says the “morphine” is finally wearing off. But there are other important factors as well, and Brian tells us why he thinks the U.S. is headed into a recession but nothing close to a 2008-level crisis.

Finally, Brian explains why investors should not panic during this market turmoil and what the smartest government response would be.

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