Practically Political

Dave, Kurt, and Ashley dissect the 22nd government shutdown in 50 years, questioning whether Democrats have a winning strategy or are just setting themselves up for another loss. The hosts debate messaging failures, the Republican advantage in the media ecosystem, and why fighting over future crises rarely moves voters. Plus: was Trump's military generals gathering pure stagecraft? The surprising Monica Lewinsky-shutdown connection you never knew about. And Pfizer's direct-to-consumer deal that has Big Pharma scrambling. Recorded October 2, 2025.

In this episode of Practically Political, hosts Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis discuss the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and its implications for political discourse in America. They explore the reactions from political leaders, the role of social media in radicalization, and the ongoing issues of mental health and gun control. The conversation also touches on the upcoming government shutdown and the economic implications of recent interest rate cuts, emphasizing the need for effective messaging and unity in the political landscape.Chapters00:00 The Tragic Assassination of Charlie Kirk02:47 The Role of Dialogue in Political Discourse05:21 The Impact of Social Media on Radicalization08:12 Free Speech and Political Violence11:00 Mental Health and Gun Violence13:55 The Political Landscape Ahead of the Midterms16:37 Economic Implications of Federal Interest Rate Cuts

Dave Spencer delivers a sobering assessment of the Trump administration's first eight months, rating it at "90% worst case scenario." The hosts break down the spectacular failure of the Alaska summit with Putin, the deteriorating situation in Gaza, and how Trump's tariff wars are driving traditional allies like India into China's arms. They also examine the systematic dismantling of non-partisan agencies, Congress's abdication of constitutional powers, and the looming government shutdown. Plus: the rise of Gavin Newsom as a Democratic standard-bearer, the party's demographic challenges ahead of 2030, and why the Supreme Court has become the final arbiter of every major policy dispute.Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis dissect the Texas Democrats' dramatic flight to Illinois over gerrymandering, Trump's alarming purge of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the federal takeover of DC policing. Plus, they preview the high-stakes Trump-Putin summit in Alaska and what it means for Ukraine's future. Will Trump's "art of the deal" hold up against Putin's power plays?Chapters00:00 Intro & Texas Gerrymandering Crisis 06:49 Trump Fires Bureau of Labor Statistics Head 16:27 Federal Takeover of DC Police 26:31 Trump-Putin Alaska Summit

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis dive into Trump's desperate attempts to block Epstein document releases, despite years of promoting conspiracy theories about the case. The hosts examine the political fallout, the discharge petition threat in Congress, and what Trump might be hiding. Plus: Jerome Powell's Fed independence under fire, Japan trade deal updates, and remembering Hulk Hogan's legacy in sports entertainment.ChaptersIntroduction - 0:00Trump's Epstein Meltdown - 00:30What's Trump Hiding? Congress Moves to Force Release - 7:00Fed Chair Powell Under Fire - Will Trump Fire Him? - 14:00Remembering Hulk Hogan & Political Wrap-Up - 21:00Further ReadingTrump Files $10 Billion Defamation Lawsuit Against Wall Street Journal Over Epstein StoryPBS NewsHour - President Trump filed a $10 billion lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal and Rupert Murdoch following the newspaper's publication of a story about a sexually suggestive letter allegedly written by Trump that was included in Jeffrey Epstein's 50th birthday album. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Miami, marks an extraordinary escalation of Trump's legal campaign against media companies.Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell Vows to Withstand Trump's Pressure CampaignCNN Politics - Jerome Powell has privately told associates he will not resign despite President Trump's unprecedented attacks and calls for lower interest rates. Powell believes his resignation would undermine the Federal Reserve's independence from political interference. The article details Trump's multi-pronged assault, including focus on the Fed's $2.5 billion headquarters renovation.House Subcommittee Votes 8-2 to Subpoena DOJ for Epstein FilesPBS NewsHour - A House subcommittee voted to subpoena the Department of Justice for Epstein investigation files after Democrats successfully pressured GOP lawmakers to act. Three Republicans joined Democrats in the 8-2 vote, defying both President Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson, who sent lawmakers home early to avoid further votes on the issue.WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 Following Cardiac ArrestCNN - Professional wrestling icon Terry Bollea, known as Hulk Hogan, died at age 71 after suffering cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home. The WWE Hall of Famer, who helped transform professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment in the 1980s, had undergone 25 surgeries in recent years and faced multiple health challenges before his death.Trump Announces 'Massive' $550 Billion Trade Deal with JapanNPR - President Trump announced a major trade agreement with Japan that reduces threatened tariffs from 25% to 15% on Japanese exports. The deal includes a $550 billion Japanese investment in the U.S. and opens Japan's markets to American cars, rice, and agricultural products. The agreement represents Trump's largest trade deal to date ahead of his August 1 tariff deadline.Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis reunite in person for a spirited discussion on the shifting dynamics of American politics. The trio analyzes Senator Tom Tillis's retirement announcement and what it means for moderate Republicans in Trump's GOP, while exploring whether there's any value left in being a "swing vote" senator. They dive deep into the shocking NYC comptroller primary upset, where 33-year-old socialist Zoram Mamdani defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo, examining what this says about the anti-establishment mood gripping both parties. The hosts also tackle the recent U.S. military strikes on Iran, debating the administration's "obliteration" claims and the potential national security implications. From Susan Collins's political calculations to the power of authenticity in modern campaigns, this episode offers unfiltered analysis of today's most pressing political developments.Relevant LinksTom Tillis Retirement AnnouncementRepublican Sen. Thom Tillis announced Sunday that he won't seek reelection in 2026, hours after President Trump threatened to back a primary challenge against him when he refused to support his massive spending and tax bill.Zohran Mamdani's Upset Victory Over Andrew CuomoZohran Mamdani declared victory in New York City's Democratic mayoral primary Tuesday night after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset.U.S. Military Strikes on Iranian Nuclear FacilitiesThe U.S. military has joined with Israel to launch military strikes against Iran, a dramatic escalation in the years-long effort by both nations to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.Early Intelligence Assessment of Iran Strike DamageThe US military strikes on three of Iran's nuclear facilities last weekend did not destroy the core components of the country's nuclear program and likely only set it back by months, according to an early US intelligence assessmentFollow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis break down the week's most consequential political developments. From Israel's devastating strikes on Iran's weakened regime to Trump's controversial deployment of National Guard and Marines on American soil, the hosts examine how close we are to major flashpoints both abroad and at home. Plus, they analyze whether Republicans in Congress will actually stand up to Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" or cave like they always do. Recorded live on June 18, 2025.What You'll Hear:Iran's collapse and what it means for Middle East stabilityThe dangerous precedent of military deployment on U.S. streetsWhy Congress keeps failing at fiscal responsibilityHow California's political future hangs in the balanceBehind-the-scenes intelligence that spooked Washington Continued Reading and Relevant Links"Israel strikes dozens of targets in Iran, including nuclear program: IDF" - ABC NewsComprehensive coverage of Israel's multi-wave strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, including damage assessments and international reactions."Trump White House opens door to historic military deployment on U.S. soil" - Washington PostIn-depth analysis of Trump's unprecedented use of National Guard and Marines for domestic law enforcement, including constitutional implications."The GOP megabill could cost trillions, putting focus on fiscal conservatism rhetoric" - NPRHow Trump's massive spending bill exposes the gap between Republican rhetoric about fiscal responsibility and actual policy decisions."The Nation's Fiscal Health: Strategy Needed as Debt Levels Accelerate" - U.S. Government Accountability OfficeOfficial government analysis showing debt projected to reach 200% of GDP by 2047, with net interest costs already exceeding Medicare and defense spending. Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis discuss the political chaos surrounding the massive budget bill heading to the Senate, examining the growing rift between Trump and Elon Musk over fiscal policy. The hosts explore whether this could be the beginning of the end for their relationship, discuss the Republicans' struggle with their fiscal conservative identity, and debate healthcare policy solutions. Plus, they analyze Ukraine's brilliant drone operation against Russia and what Putin's threatened retaliation might mean for future U.S. support. A no-holds-barred conversation about political lies, budget realities, and the art of war.Relevant LinksWhat key GOP senators want to change in Trump's House-passed 'one big beautiful billPerfect match for Ashley's Senate vote counting - shows exactly which senators have problems and whyTrump, Musk feud explodes with threats of cutting contracts, backing impeachmentThe definitive breaking news piece covering their full meltdown with all the key detailsIs fiscal conservatism dead?Historical analysis that perfectly captures Kurt's argument about Republican fiscal hypocrisyHow Much Does an Emergency Room Visit Cost vs. Urgent Care? (2025)Current data showing the exact cost differences that support Kurt's healthcare economics argumentWhat Ukraine's Unprecedented Drone Attack Means For Russia's Bomber ForceBest military analysis explaining why this operation was so brilliant and what it means long-termFollow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis examine the recently passed House spending legislation, including its impact on Medicaid coverage, tax policy changes, and the political implications for Republicans who voted for it. The discussion also covers new reporting about President Biden's health timeline and prostate cancer diagnosis, analyzing the political fallout and questions of transparency. Additionally, the hosts discuss broader challenges facing the Democratic Party, including messaging strategy and voter outreach across different demographics. The conversation concludes with analysis of congressional dysfunction and historical patterns in American politics.Further ReadingHouse Spending Bill & Medicaid CutsKFF Analysis: Tracking the Medicaid Provisions in the 2025 Reconciliation Bill | KFF - Comprehensive breakdown of the House-passed bill's health provisionshttps://www.kff.org/tracking-the-medicaid-provisions-in-the-2025-budget-bill/CNN Fact-Check: Fact-checking Republican and Democratic claims about Medicaid cuts in the GOP bill | CNN Politics - Independent analysis of competing claims about the bill's impacthttps://www.cnn.com/2025/05/21/politics/fact-check-gop-bill-medicaid-cutsBiden Health Cover-Up RevelationsNPR Interview: In 'Original Sin,' Jake Tapper describes a 'cover-up' of Joe Biden's decline - Authors discuss their investigation into Biden's health timelinehttps://www.npr.org/2025/05/20/nx-s1-5398050/joe-bidens-decline-jake-tapper-original-sinTIME Interview: Bombshell Biden Book Draws More Attention After Cancer Reveal | TIME - Co-author Alex Thompson on the reporting process and implicationshttps://time.com/7286591/biden-cancer-original-sin-alex-thompson/Democratic Party's Electoral ChallengesRolling Stone Analysis:Dems Hemorrhaged Support from All Demographics in 2024 — Including New Voters - Detailed voter data analysis showing Democratic losses across all groupshttps://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/how-kamala-harris-lost-2024-catalist-1235344875/NBC Analysis:5 Democratic assumptions shattered by the 2024 election: From the Politics Desk - Breakdown of fundamental party assumptions challenged by election resultshttps://www.nbcnews.com/politics/democratic-assumptions-shattered-2024-election-politics-desk-rcna181725Congressional Dysfunction & ReformPew Research:Changing demographics of US voters and Republican, Democratic coalitions, 1996-2023 | Pew Research Center - Long-term data on voter demographic shiftshttps://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2024/04/09/the-changing-demographic-composition-of-voters-and-party-coalitions/NPR Report: After major 2024 defeats, the Democratic Party searches for a new direction : NPR - Current state of Democratic Party leadership and strategy discussionshttps://www.npr.org/2025/01/18/nx-s1-5262358/democratic-party-future-trump Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter.Follow Ashley DavisFollow Kurt Bardella

In this episode, Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis dive into Trump's controversial tariff policies and their impact on international trade. They explore the implications of recent trade deals, discuss the complex relationship with China, and examine the developing situation with Iran. The conversation provides insights into how these decisions might affect the American economy and global relationships.

Join Dave Spencer, Ashley Davis, and Kurt Bardella for a passionate analysis of the political landscape that feels like it's shifting by the hour. In this episode, the trio dives deep into the Garcia immigration controversy dividing Democrats, the market-rattling impact of Trump's tariff policies, and what it means for everyday Americans watching their retirement accounts. Ashley brings her homeland security expertise to explain why Republicans see immigration as a winning issue, while Kurt questions the administration's economic strategy that has CEOs in panic mode.The conversation shifts to the Democratic leadership void, with AOC's surprising rise as a powerful communicator drawing Bernie-sized crowds nationwide. Could she be the party's future, and why are Republicans eager to see her as the 2028 nominee? Plus, don't miss Kurt's fascinating behind-the-scenes take on WrestleMania and how it perfectly explains Trump's political playbook. As Dave notes, "It seems like the longest hundred days" of a presidency that's just getting started.Subscribe to Practically Political on YouTubeRelated LinksThe Garcia Immigration ControversyEl Salvador's Bukele says he won't return mistakenly deported man to U.S.What we know about Kilmar Abrego GarciaEl Salvador's Bukele says "preposterous" to suggest he return Abrego Garcia to U.S.Trump's Tariff Policies and Market ImpactTrump's tariffs risk a global trade warU.S. stocks slump after Trump's tariff pauseThe Economic Impact of the Trump Trade WarStock markets react to Trump tariffs amid fears of global trade warAOC's Rising Role in Democratic LeadershipAOC seizes the moment as Democrats seek a new identityBernie Sanders and AOC rally in Denver draws 34,000Fear and hope are drawing Democrats to Sanders and Ocasio-CortezSanders and Ocasio-Cortez rally against 'oligarchy' on the Front RangeGOP Responses and Business ReactionsGOP megadonor Ken Langone is latest billionaire to blast Trump's tariffsTrump tariffs sow fears of trade wars, recession and a $2,300 iPhone

In this farewell episode, hosts Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield engage in their final spirited debate after four years of collaboration. The duo tackles controversial topics including Trump's tariff policies, immigration enforcement tactics, democracy concerns, and the administration's government cutbacks. As Sheffield prepares to depart the show, tensions rise over fundamental disagreements about presidential power, due process, and America's global relationships. Despite their opposing viewpoints, Spencer and Sheffield reflect on years of respectful dialogue during tumultuous political times, ending their partnership with mutual respect amid deep ideological divisions.

In this episode of Practically Political, hosts Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis dive into the recent Trump administration scandal involving classified information shared on Signal messaging app. The trio examines the national security implications and whether there will be any accountability for this major breach. They also discuss Trump's puzzling obsession with making Canada the "51st state" and how this rhetoric is reshaping Canadian politics ahead of their election. The conversation shifts to Chuck Schumer's controversial budget deal, the future of Democratic Party leadership, and the challenges Democrats face connecting with working-class voters. Join our hosts for their candid, non-partisan analysis of these pivotal political moments and what they reveal about America's political landscape.Further ReadingTrump Administration Signal ControversyThe Atlantic: Inside Trump Team's Use of Signal for Classified InformationPolitico: Understanding the Security Implications of Messaging Apps for Government CommunicationUS-Canada Relations and Trump's "51st State" CommentsThe Hub: How Trump's Rhetoric is Reshaping Canadian PoliticsForeign Policy: Understanding US-Canada Trade TensionsChuck Schumer and the Budget DealThe New York Times: Behind the Scenes of Schumer's Budget NegotiationsAxios: Progressive Democrats React to Schumer's Budget DealDemocratic Party Leadership and Future DirectionBrookings Institution: The Democratic Party's Generational ChallengeFiveThirtyEight: Can Democrats Win Back Working-Class Voters?Democratic Presidential Prospects for 2028The Washington Post: Rising Democratic Stars to WatchPolitico: Fetterman's Appeal and 2028 Presidential Speculation

In this dynamic premiere of Practically Political's new trio format, host Dave Spencer is joined by permanent co-hosts Kurt Bardella (former Republican turned Democrat) and Ashley Davis (Republican strategist) for a candid analysis of the current state of politics. The panel dissects Trump's lengthy address to Congress and the Democrats' ineffective response, debates the likelihood of a government shutdown, and explores Kamala Harris's potential run for California governor.The conversation takes unexpected turns as they evaluate who might lead both parties in 2028, with surprising mentions of ESPN's Stephen A. Smith and The Rock as potential Democratic candidates. Kurt doesn't hold back in his criticism of his adopted party, while Ashley offers insider Republican perspective on budget negotiations and entitlement reform. From Social Security's uncertain future to Gavin Newsom's shifting positions, this episode delivers frank, bipartisan analysis you won't hear in mainstream political coverage.Subscribe to Practically Political for weekly conversations that break through partisan talking points with insight, humor, and authentic debate from across the political spectrum.

Join Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield as they host Gabriella Hoffman, Director of the Energy and Conservation Center at Independent Women's Forum, for a spirited debate on America's energy future. The discussion covers crucial topics including climate change policy, Trump's environmental legacy, Biden's energy initiatives, critical minerals competition with China, and the potential of nuclear energy. This episode highlights the complex balance between environmental conservation and energy development, while exploring how different political perspectives approach these challenges.

In this heated discussion, hosts Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield dive into the controversial first ten days of Trump's new presidency. They debate the merits of recent presidential pardons, contentious political appointments, and the emerging relationship between Trump and tech industry leaders. Spencer raises concerns about executive competence and constitutional issues, while Sheffield defends the administration's early actions. The episode features a passionate exchange about accountability, national security, and the role of oversight in government.

In this lively pre-inauguration episode, hosts Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield debate the prospects of Trump's upcoming second term. They explore how Trump has changed since 2017, assess his first-term legislative accomplishments, and discuss key challenges ahead, including immigration policy, Ukraine relations, and economic concerns. The hosts offer contrasting perspectives on Trump's evolution as a leader, with Sheffield arguing he's more focused and disciplined, while Spencer expresses skepticism about fundamental changes in Trump's governing style. The episode concludes with Spencer's pointed criticism of outgoing President Biden's decision to run for reelection. Throughout their spirited exchange, the hosts provide insight into the political dynamics shaping America's transition of power in 2025.

Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield share their picks for the biggest winners and losers of 2024 in this New Year's special episode. They discuss President-elect Trump's victory, the rise of tech oligarchs, the fall of DEI initiatives, and crucial economic challenges facing the nation in 2025.

Former congressional candidate Karina Lipsman joins hosts Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield to discuss the 2024 election results, her work at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, and Trump's controversial cabinet nominees. Drawing from her personal experience growing up in Soviet Ukraine, Lipsman shares insights on the dangers of communist ideology and the foundation's efforts to educate younger generations. The hosts engage in a spirited debate about economic policy, Trump's legacy, and the qualifications of potential cabinet members, particularly focusing on Pete Hegseth's nomination for Secretary of Defense.

In this episode of Practically Political, Dave Spencer and Carrie Sheffield sit down with Republican strategist Ellen Walter to discuss the latest developments in American politics. Walter, a key figure in Glenn Youngkin's successful Virginia gubernatorial campaign and veteran of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, offers insider perspectives on the Pennsylvania Senate recount, the evolution of Republican early voting strategy, and the challenges of navigating Trump-era politics. The conversation then shifts to a lively debate about Trump's controversial cabinet nominations and what they signal for his potential second term. Walter shares valuable insights from her extensive grassroots campaign experience and offers a preview of the crucial 2026 Senate races that could reshape American politics.