In recent elections, the influence of the evangelical vote has been clear — especially in Republican politics. But in an election cycle when the economy is expected to dominate the conversation, how critical will the evangelical vote be? How actively are they in gearing up for 2012? Will GOP candidates be smart to appeal to Chriatian conservatives or will that message turn off everyone else? Radio America’s Brittany Brady has the story.
Battle in the Bluegrass
Four governor’s races highlight a pretty quiet election schedule this year before the mayhem of the 2012 race begins. By nearly all accounts, the tightest race in the nation this November will be in Kentucky, where Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear is facing Republican State Senate resident David Williams. Why is Williams looking to unseat Beshear? What would he do to stimulate job creation? What financial headaches await Kentucky if many more residents are enrolled in Medicaid under the Obama health plan? And how does Williams intend to shrink a double-digit deficit in the polls? We discuss all these issues with David Williams, Kentucky’s Republican nominee for governor.
Three Martini Lunch 6/28/11
Brett Winterble of Radio America and Jim Geraghty of National Review are amused at the huge tax hike proposal made by House Democrats. We question the legality of President Obama’s fund raising event at the White House. And we rip former Rep. Anthony Weiner for confronting the Queen ‘s Party Chairman with recommendations of who the Democrats should pick to replace him.
Privilege of Persecution
Americans enjoy more religious freedom than virtually everyone else in the world. Millions of people suffer repression for their faith and Christians are especially targeted in many nations. But as horrific as their treatment is, what do these persecuted believers know and experience that Christians in safe nations do not? What could American Christians learn from their oppressed brethren? How can these lessons be learned apart from persecution? And how much time and energy should American believers spend on politics? We discuss these questions with Dr. Carl Moeller, president of Open Doors USA. He is also co-author of “The Privilege of Persecution”.
If You’re in a Hole, Stop Digging
Jamie Radtke explains why she is running for the open U.S. Senate seat in Virginia. Why did a wife and homeschooling mother end up seeking office on Capitol Hill? Where does she currently stand in the debt ceiling debate? What is her long-term economic agenda? And how does she plan to defeat a rival as well known as George Allen? We discuss it all with Virginia U.S. Senate candidate Jamie Radtke.
Three Martini Lunch 6/27/11
Brett Winterble of Radio America and Jim Geraghty of National Review were surprised by Chris Wallace’s question to Michele Bachmann about her being a “flake.” They also have a bad taste in their mouths from the continued negative economic news, including the latest figures of the real national debt, and were appalled by recent TSA behavior.
Three Martini Lunch 6/24/11
Greg Corombos of Radio America and Dan Foster of National Review applaud the GOP for walking out on debt talks (for the most part). We roll our eyes as Nancy Pelosi again lays most of the debt blame at the feet of George W. Bush. And we try to figure out what in the world Newt Gingrich is talking about now.
More Jobs, Cheaper Gas
Colorado Rep. Cory Gardner discusses his plan to increase energy production that just cleared the House of Representatives. Why is he focused on ending appeals on energy exploration permits? What is the government doing to stifle energy production? How many jobs could this plan create? How would it impact fuel prices? And will the bill get through the Senate? We discuss it with Rep. Gardner.
Sarah Palin’s Midnight Ride
The Capitol Steps have some fun with Sarah Palin’s recent controversy over Paul Revere’s midnight ride. Our guest is Steps star Elaina Newport.
Bowing to Political Pressure
On Wednesday, President Obama announced the drawing down of U.S. forces from Afghanistan will start with 10,000 troops this year and 33,000 by next summer. We get reaction from Missouri Rep. Vicky Hartzler, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. How does Hartzler react to Obama removing troops faster than recommended by General Petraeus? How can we really know that the Afghans are capable of sustaining the progress our military has made? What is the greatest challenge in getting Afghan security forces up to the job of defending their own country? And how will she vote on a resolution to end funding for our military mission in Libya? We discuss it all with Rep. Hartzler.