Guardians of the Republic

Everyday He's More Batman

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:22:16 -0500

Where does the second Trump impeachment trial leave the Republic? Mitt Romney steps up with a clear prescription for the future. Plus thoughts on the impeachment attorneys, Andrew Cuomo, Chris Christie, Ted Cruz, and Dolly Parton.

A Big Tent for Conservatives and Kooks?

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 14:36:09 -0500

This week: some Republicans step forward, but many don't; how the Biden administration and the media impact the health of the Republic; where the GOP is headed; a look ahead to impeachment; and initial polling on the new president.

It Really Is a New Day

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 14:46:07 -0500

It really is a new day in America, but much work remains to be done. Ian & Patrick discuss what President Biden means by "unity," the outlook for the Senate, a preview of impeachment, and a look at the underlying authoritarian inclinations that continue to threaten the Republic. Plus some hot takes on highlights from the inauguration ceremonies.

The Band-Aid Has Been Ripped Off

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:35:52 -0500

This week marked a turning point. The band-aid over what ails the Republic has been ripped off. Will Mitt Romney and company stand up to Josh Hawley's sedition caucus? Will the Biden administration tackle the racial justice issues at the core of our national divide? And what does the Georgia run-off say about the years ahead?

The Hope & Sedition Episode

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 14:17:44 -0500

Ian and Patrick take a look at members of Congress signing onto seditious claims of election fraud and potential signs for hope in how Joe Biden will run his administration. Plus some thoughts on the vital role certain state officials have played in guarding the Republic.

Why Don't We Just Rename the Disease After Trump?

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 14:41:13 -0500

We look at new polling on the deep divide in our country and the challenges facing the Republic this week, including efforts to undermine the election results and how Biden should handle calls to investigate Trump. Also, the need for civics education and a proposal to name the Covid vaccine.

I Like People Who Don't Lose Arizona

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:32:55 -0500

A look at Republicans dragging their heels on acknowledging the new President-Elect, a growing rift in the Democratic Party, the McCain family reaction to the election, and more.

We've Crossed the Delaware. Now What?

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 16:14:47 -0500

What happened in the election? What happened with the polls? And what of the Republic? We've crossed the Delaware and won the first battle of Trenton, but we've many more battles ahead.

The American Voter Is Our Guardian Now

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:49:15 -0500

It's now up to the American Voter to guard the Republic! Patrick and Ian break down the polls, from the big picture to individual states, and look at the potential for authoritarian backlash if things don't go the way Trump supporters expect.

Did the Debate Move the Needle? C'mon!

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 14:04:21 -0500

In this episode, Ian & Patrick grade the final presidential debate, take a look at polls in key states, ask whether the Supreme Court nomination marks a point of no return for the Republic, and wonder why Trump is a fan of The Village People.

National Polls vs. Battleground Polls

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 14:45:52 -0500

National polls versus the battleground state polls -- what to believe? Why it's important to know the price of a bushel of soybeans. And, of course, Ben Sasse.

We Should Never Despair

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:38:58 -0500

We're back! The latest polls and why they matter. The debates, Covid, the future of our elections. We cover it all.

With a Heart Full of Love and Gratitude

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:18:08 -0500

The podcast takes a pause, but before it does Ian and Patrick take a look at the 2020 election and VP prospects for Joe Biden. Plus some final thoughts on gratitude as we weather the current crisis.

You're a Disgrace! You're a Disgrace!

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 16:21:39 -0500

Trump has changed the rules, but many - journalists, Senators, etc - keep operating under the old standard practices. It's time to shake it up. Plus Patrick and Ian discuss recent shifts in COVID polling and our heroes on the front lines.

Anthony Fauci, the Most Lovely of Men

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 15:12:28 -0500

Misinformation is proving dangerous during this crisis. Ian and Patrick discuss the polar opposites of Jared Kushner and Anthony Fauci, polling that suggests the "bump" in Trump's approval rating may be more aspirational than real, and an ode to our health care workers on the front lines.

Well, That's Ben Sasse For You!

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 15:51:11 -0500

Ian and Patrick look at the impact of the White House COVID briefings on public confidence, Trump as an authoritarian "weakman," the trillion dollar stimulus package (where Ben Sasse finally emerges from his silence), and the Democratic nomination.

We WOULD Shut Down the Highways, You Idiot!

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 13:56:24 -0500

Ian and Patrick discuss some of the questionable statements and about-face takes from those who are putting party before country around the coronavirus outbreak. Plus where the presidential election is headed and thoughts on how we can learn something positive from the current crisis.

The Coronavirus Episode

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 15:39:54 -0500

President Trump's response to the coronavirus outbreak not only has consequences for public health, but for the health of the republic itself. Plus the state of the Democratic nomination race and the search for a running mate.

The Joe Biden Episode

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 17:53:41 -0500

Joe Biden had a big week and coronavirus roils the markets. What does all this mean for the Republic. Plus Ian and Patrick look back at the 2020 Democratic field.

The Bernie Sanders Episode

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 14:00:00 -0500

With news that Russia was trying to boost Bernie Sanders in the 2020 election, Ian and Patrick talk about what his candidacy means for the country and the Democratic Party. Plus: will guardians (or betrayers) of the Republic emerge from the coronavirus outbreak?

On the Air with Radio Sputnik

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 14:12:08 -0500

The rule of law under AG Bill Barr and Radio Sputnik is broadcasting Russian propaganda to the heartland. Ian and Patrick talk about the Democratic debate in an extended "hot takes" and Sen. Ben Sasse gets special recognition in the Guardians of the Week segment.

Where is Your Conscience, Ben Sasse?

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 14:49:48 -0500

Did Donald Trump learn a lesson, as Susan Collins claimed? Where did Ben Sasse's conscience go? Is Mitch McConnell divinely inspired? Plus a look at public opinion on the impeachment trial outcome and the state of the Democratic 2020 field.

I Believe Our Constitution was Inspired by Providence

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 16:56:35 -0500

Mitt Romney, the State of the Union, and Donald Trump's post-impeachment victory lap. Ian and Patrick discuss whether there is such a thing as a constitutional brain transplant. Plus the state of the Democratic nomination race.

I Think the Patient is Brain Dead

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 16:44:27 -0500

As the impeachment trial wraps up, it may be time to start thinking about Guardians of a *New* Republic. What does "no witnesses" mean, not just for the trial, but for the country? Plus: Chief Justice Roberts, The Lincoln Project, and how to greet a dog.

Why, Why, Why, Why, Why?

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:50:43 -0500

Joe Biden's outburst may have captured the mood of the week as the impeachment trial gets underway. Ian and Patrick discuss the House manager's opening arguments, "lawyer lawsuits," "A Very Stable Genius," the latest polls, and a special Guardian of the Week courtesy of Ian's mom.

It's Gonna Be Adam Schiff's Show

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 16:42:45 -0500

The impeachment managers have been named. Ian and Patrick discuss what they expect as the trial moves to the Senate and offer their takes on the Iowa Democratic presidential debate. Plus Rep. Matt Gaetz's stand on war powers and an unusual pick for Guardian of the Week.

I Find It Insulting and I Find It Demeaning

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 15:46:45 -0500

Sen. Mike Lee's defense of Congressional prerogative sounded a different note for Republicans this week. We also talk about John Bolton's possible testimony, Tribe's Law, and the 2020 Democratic field.

That's the Dictionary Definition of Idolatry

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 17:57:49 -0500

The impeachment vote is in but the saga is far from over. Ian coins the phrase "Tribe's Law" to describe what comes next and Patrick takes a dim view of biblical references during the floor debate.

George, Donald, and Barack

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 14:36:16 -0500

Ian and Patrick discuss the articles of impeachment and key differences from both Clinton's impeachment and calls for George Washington's ouster in 1795. They also look at a recent Monmouth poll that compared Washington to Trump and Obama. Plus hot takes on the UK election and thoughts on Nancy Pelosi.

Just Enough Virtue to Save the Republic

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 17:51:18 -0500

Ian and Patrick break down this week's Judiciary Committee hearing, discuss a recent poll that shows Republicans preferring Trump over Lincoln, and offer a mea culpa on the Guardian of the Week.

This is America; Here Right Matters.

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 21:39:18 -0500

A lot to cover with the impeachments hearings and hot takes on the 5th Democratic debate. Plus reaction to comparing Donald Trump with George Washington.

This May Make the Patient Die Quicker

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 15:22:08 -0500

We break down the content and performances of the first public impeachment hearing. But more importantly, how does this contribute to the Republic's long-term prognosis? Plus Iowa caucus polling and more!

The Week of the A+ Rating

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 03:09:00 -0500

If Trump leaves office, what's next? Do we pretend this never happened? Plus this week's election takeaways and Monmouth University's top-of-the-heap poll rating from 538.

How Wide Should the Impeachment Inquiry Go?

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 13:24:44 -0500

And we're off! The House impeachment inquiry is now official. What should happen next to guard the Republic. Also, reaction to Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, Twitter banning political ads, and more.

Net Positive for Trump, Net Negative for the Republic

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 13:38:38 -0500

Bill Taylor's testimony upped the ante while anti-impeachment Reps compromised national security. A sign of what's to come? Plus: What's with all the wide swings in Dem 2020 primary polling?

The Whole Thing Smells to High Heaven

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 15:09:59 -0500

Violent video and Syria challenge the Republic. What was Bill Barr doing at Rupert Murdoch's apartment? Plus hot takes on Tuesday's Democratic debate.

Stand on 5th Avenue and Shoot Someone

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 22:10:52 -0500

Has impeachment support hit a turning point? What's behind Trump's Syria move? Mitt Romney, Lindsey Graham, Pat Robertson, Joe Biden, and more.

The Impeachment Inquiry Minefield

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 11:56:52 -0500

Has Adam Schiff already undercut the inquiry? Could impeachment lead to a real civil war? With hot takes on Joe Walsh, Joe Biden, Andrew Yang and more. BONUS VIDEO: Ian's recent remarks on the need to look out for each other and the Republic. Delivered at the home of John Witherspoon, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, in Princeton, NJ (watch here trt 5 minutes).

Is the Constitution Damaged Beyond Repair?

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 13:39:54 -0500

The whistleblower complaint is in and an impeachment inquiry has begun. Is this a good or bad move for guarding the Republic?

But Those Rules Don't Apply To You

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 04:30:00 -0500

One of these things is not like the others. In this episode we discuss Corey Lewandowski, Brett Kavanaugh, Boris Johnson Bibi Netanyahu, and James Madison. PLUS Ian gives Elizabeth Warren the full theater critic treatment in his "Communications Corner."

It's Too Freakin' Soon for Head to Head Polls!

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 11:06:23 -0500

In a new segment, we scan the nation for challenges the Republic that happened this week. PLUS who brought their acting A-game to the Dem debate.

James Comey: A Lesson to Fellow Guardians

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 01:00:00 -0500

Is James Comey an object lesson for how not to guard the Republic? And we found some polling on the huddled masses yearning to breathe free. Plus political take downs and altered hurricane maps.

Monmouth Poll and Joe Walsh: The Week of Outliers

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 06:36:00 -0500

Patrick discusses his Monmouth Poll that shook the political world and Ian breaks down how Joe Walsh skillfully defended the almost indefensible this week. Plus hot takes on Nikki Haley, Brexit and more.

Expose Him For the Con Man He Is

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 00:44:32 -0500

Are Republicans starting to take on Trump? Polling on impeachment, buying Greenland, Jewish loyalty, and more.

She's Got a Lot of Zip, I'll Tell Ya!

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 17:14:09 -0500

Do Democrats have their eyes on the prize in 2020; Medicare for All polling is a muddy picture; voices from the Iowa campaign trail.

The Essential Benefits of Civil Society

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 15:28:18 -0500

A look at polling on gun issues and calls to speak out against white nationalism. And some "hot takes"on last week's Democratic presidential debate.

The Protection of a Free Government

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 17:25:05 -0500

Robert Mueller and the case for impeachment hearings - but maybe not impeachment itself. And we ask if it is do-or-die time for some Democratic presidential contenders in our debate preview.

Give to Bigotry No Sanction

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 20:08:55 -0500

The tribalism behind "Send Her Back," a look at polling on government confidence, and what political parties can learn from The Bachelorette. Our Guardian of the Week comes from the health care field.

The Bosom of America is Open

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 13:30:00 -0500

We discuss the controversy between President Trump and the "Squad" and hear firsthand what is on the minds of New Hampshire voters. We also take a look at polling on economic anxiety, rate the 2020 candidates' performance skills in our “hot takes” segment, and see if anyone is deserving of Guardian of the Week honors.

On The Ruins of Public Liberty

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 13:27:00 -0500

We talk about the president's latest tweet and how it relates to factions in American politics. We also remember H. Ross Perot who passed away this week, take a look at Trump's polling trends, offer a few "hot takes" on who should get in or get out of the Democratic race for president, and end with our Guardian of the Week.