Radio America Online News Bureau

taxes

Jim and Greg’s Political Spring Cleaning: The Policies and Politicians We Want to Throw Out

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Listen to “Jim and Greg’s Political Spring Cleaning: The Policies and Politicians We Want to Throw Out” on Spreaker.

Jim and Greg are off for Good Friday but they’ve also been busy lately doing some spring cleaning—but not around the house. Greg is tossing out outdated policies, messages, and organizations, while Jim is ready to send a few politicians packing.

First, Greg targets the type of taxes he finds most infuriating. He’s not a fan of any taxes but there’s one he finds particularly burdensome and fundamentally unfair. Jim, meanwhile, celebrates the quiet departure of a Republican who dominated headlines late last year but is now largely forgotten—and not missed.

Next, Greg shifts his focus to education, identifying a major obstacle to our schools that, if eliminated, would greatly benefit students and restore academic integrity. Jim highlights a once-promising politician who failed to deliver, faced numerous legal issues, and appears headed for a huge political defeat this year.

Finally, Greg turns to the lighter side and takes aim at some of the most irritating TV commercials. While he is a huge fan of free speech, Greg explains why these ads are especially grating and need to go. Jim reflects on a political figure who has already stepped away from the spotlight—but wonders how long before he fades from public view altogether.

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Trump’s Tariff Decision, Trump Praises Gov. Whitmer, Fake Students Steal Your Tax Dollars

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Listen to “Trump’s Tariff Decision, Trump Praises Gov. Whitmer, Fake Students Steal Your Tax Dollars” 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 break down President Trump’s latest tariff moves, the surprisingly cordial exchange between Trump and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and the alarming surge of fake college students defrauding taxpayers.

First, they analyze President Trump’s announcement that he will pause most of the tariffs announced last week for the next 90 days, while sharply increasing tariffs on China. Other nations will see a temporary reduction to 10 percent. Greg points to the value of singling out China economically, while Scot highlights how Trump’s approach reflects two consistent patterns in his approach to leadership.

Next, they react to Trump’s unexpected praise for Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, calling her “a very good person” and saying she’s done “an excellent job.” While many conservatives in Michigan strongly disagree, Whitmer echoed support for reshoring manufacturing and expressed understanding of Trump’s tariff policy. Scot and Greg explore what’s behind this odd development and how it could impact Whitmer’s likely 2028 presidential run and more.

Finally, they expose how scammers are siphoning off millions in taxpayer-funded financial aid by enrolling fake students in California’s community college system. Estimates show up to 34 percent of community college applicants in the state may have fraudulent in the most recent statistics. But Scot reveals how the colleges are also bending over backwards trying not to remove these fake students.

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Astronauts Safely Return, Will Schumer Survive as Leader? Walz Won’t Go Away

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Listen to “Astronauts Safely Return, Will Schumer Survive as Leader? Walz Won’t Go Away” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they break down SpaceX’s dramatic rescue of American astronauts, Chuck Schumer’s struggle to survive mounting pressure from the left, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s relentless bid for political relevance.

First, they celebrate the safe return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams after their planned eight-day mission stretched into more than nine months aboard the International Space Station. They credit SpaceX and Elon Musk for achieving what Boeing and the federal government could not—while dismissing weak arguments that the astronauts weren’t truly stranded.

Next, they grab the popcorn as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faces an uproar from progressives after helping Republicans break the filibuster to keep the government open. With at least one House Democrat calling for new leadership and many others still fuming, Schumer attempted damage control on The View—only to alienate business owners by mocking their complaints over high taxes.

Finally, they groan as Gov. Tim Walz keeps forcing himself into the political spotlight with speeches in multiple states. While he has every right to speak out, it’s now widely accepted that his addition to Kamala Harris’s ticket last year didn’t help, and there’s little indication he has any lasting influence in the party.

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Win if You Want Tax Dollars, AP’s Embarrassing Correction, NYT’s Partial COVID Confession

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Listen to “Win if You Want Tax Dollars, AP’s Embarrassing Correction, NYT’s Partial COVID Confession” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss a proposed metric for sports teams seeking taxpayer funds for new stadiums, a major blunder by the Associated Press, and the media figures who finally admit the government lied to us about COVID but also portray themselves as victims of those lies.

First, they applaud a Democrat in the Illinois legislature for introducing the BEARS Act, which would require professional sports teams to win at least half their games three times in five years to qualify for taxpayer-funded stadium projects. While Jim and Greg oppose any public funding for stadiums, they argue that if it must happen, teams should have to earn it.

Next, they dissect an embarrassing correction from the Associated Press. The AP falsely reported that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said President Trump and Russia’s Vladimir Putin were “very good friends,” when she was actually referring to Trump and India’s Narendra Modi. Greg notes how these corrections always seem to fix a story that falsely painted the right in a negative light. Jim explains the journalistic standards that should prevent such errors.

Finally, they react to the New York Times finally admitting that governments misled the public about the COVID outbreak and many pandemic-related policies. While they welcome the acknowledgment, they have no sympathy for the Times and others who spent years attacking anyone who questioned the official narrative. Jim also highlights how conservative instincts helped drive the momentum toward the truth about COVID’s origins and more.

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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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Trump’s Marching Orders to Congress, Trump’s IVF Order, Why Young Men Moved Towards Trump

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Listen to “Trump’s Marching Orders to Congress, Trump’s IVF Order, Why Young Men Moved Towards Trump” on Spreaker.

Inez Stepman of the Independent Women’s Forum fills in for Jim on this episode of the 3 Martini Lunch podcast. Join Inez and Greg as they discuss Trump’s legislative priorities, his controversial executive order on in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the role COVID played in shifting young men towards Trump in the 2024 elections.

First, Inez and Greg break down Trump’s call for a single reconciliation bill to tackle border policy, energy, defense, and tax cuts. Trump is aligning with the House strategy, while the Senate currently plans to divide the issues into two separate bills. Inez explains how this demonstrates what Trump learned from his  legislative approach eight years ago and why he’s likely to get what he wants in the end.

Next, they discuss Trump’s executive order aimed at making in vitro fertilization more accessible and more affordable. They both agree taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill for IVF treatments. Greg says while IVF provides hope to married couples struggling with infertility, it also results in the destruction of human life in many cases. Inez opposes the executive order, warning it could accelerate the troubling rise of “designer babies” and genetic engineering. They also stress that the government should focus on making it easier and more affordable for families looking to adopt children already born.

Finally, they explore polling and analysis from The Atlantic that suggests COVID lockdowns and the erosion of trust in experts have contributed to a significant shift in young men’s political allegiance towards Donald Trump. Inez points out that the COVID era coincided with the peak of the woke movement, and many young men grew frustrated with being blamed for society’s problems.

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Trump’s Goals for Gaza, USAID’s Politico Problem, Dems Already Want Impeachment

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Listen to “Trump’s Goals for Gaza, USAID’s Politico Problem, Dems Already Want Impeachment” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they react to President Trump’s suggestion to take over Gaza, USAID’s questionable spending on foreign and domestic media, and the latest call for President Trump’s impeachment from a House Democrat.

First, they dive into Trump’s proposal for the U.S. to take control of Gaza, relocate the people, clean up the area, and transform it into a Mediterranean resort-like destination. Greg argues that it’s a terrible idea as described, but also questions what Trump’s true strategy might be. But Jim offers…a surprisingly positive take on the plan.

Next, they shudder at some of the egregious waste uncovered in the DOGE audit of the U.S. Agency for International Development. Specifically, they examine why millions of our tax dollars ended up in the hands of Politico and other media outlets.

Finally, they address Texas Rep. Al Green’s call for President Trump’s impeachment, making him the first Democrat in Congress to do so in the new Trump presidency. While Green has files articles of impeachment before, Jim and Greg explain why this latest push is nothing more than a political stunt aimed at drawing attention, especially with the GOP controlling both chambers of Congress.

Finally, they roll their eyes as Texas Rep. Al Green becomes the first congressional Democrat to call for President Trump’s impeachment. This is not Green’s first attempt to oust a sitting Republican president, but with the GOP running both chambers of Congress, it’s nothing more than a stunt to attract attention.

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GOP Governors Top Fiscal Ratings, Israeli Strike Plans Leaked Again, Social Security & Walz’s Mom

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Listen to “GOP Governors Top Fiscal Ratings, Israeli Strike Plans Leaked Again, Social Security & Walz’s Mom” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg as they discuss how Republican governors do much better than Democrats on fiscal policy, the infuriating leak of Israel’s plans to strike Iran, and why Tim Walz is so reluctant to help his own mother.

First, they analyze the CATO Institute report card, which grades 48 U.S. governors on controlling spending and improving tax policies. Notably, all six governors receiving an ‘A’ were Republicans, while all six earning an ‘F’ were Democrats, including Tim Walz. Jim and Greg explore the reasons behind these results and highlight a few surprising names on the list.

Next, frustration mounts over the leak of classified Israeli military plans to strike Iran. This follows previous instances of U.S. officials being caught off guard by successful Israeli strikes in the Middle East. Jim explains how several key figures in the Biden administration are far too cozy with Iran and wonders why allies would share sensitive material with us in the future.

Finally, they address Tim Walz’s recent comments in North Carolina about his mother’s reliance on Social Security for basic needs. Jim and Greg explain how Social Security is intended as  supplement to your retirement plan and wonder why Walz allows his mother to live in such a precarious financial situation. This is at least the second time Walz has referred to leaving his elderly mom to fend for herself. He also made her go home and live by herself after heart surgery during COVID because he feared negative headlines if he brought her to his home.

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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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Obamas at the DNC, Kamala’s Tax Plan Nightmare, RFK Jr. to Endorse Trump?

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Listen to “Obamas at the DNC, Kamala’s Tax Plan Nightmare, RFK Jr. to Endorse Trump?” on Spreaker.

Join Jim and Greg as they assess speeches from Barack and Michelle Obama at the Democratic National Committee, recoil at Kamala’s proposed tax hikes and current job revisions, and speculate on the impact of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. possibly ending his independent bid for president and endorsing Donald Trump.

First, after lamenting that the Democrats temporarily took down the Bulls and Blackhawks championship banners, they react to Tuesday night’s convention speeches from the Obamas. While they readily admit that both of them are very skilled at speaking and motivating their party’s base, they also highlight how the former president is always right in the middle of the political mudslinging while pretending to stay above the fray. And they notice some very telling signs about what the Obamas really think of the Bidens.

Next, they shudder as Kamala Harris endorses a long list of new taxes, including major hikes in the corporate and capital gains tax rate – and even a big tax on “unrecognized” capital gains, meaning people would be taxed on money they haven’t even made yet. They also cringe at revised job numbers from the Labor Department showing 818,000 fewer jobs were actually created in the past year than previously reported.

Finally, after RFK, Jr.’s running mate says there’s a chance Kennedy will drop out and endorse Trump, Jim and Greg consider whether they think that will happen and whether such an event would have a major effect on the 2024 presidential race.

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