Your Neighbor on the Left Podcast

Pete Hegseth’s defenders say he was carrying out Donald Trump’s orders. But what authority supported those orders, and what responsibility does Hegseth bear for his own decisions? This episode breaks down all eight articles of impeachment, covering Iran, civilian protections, lethal strikes on suspected drug boats, the targeting of Senator Mark Kelly, Venezuela, and Yemen. I examine the evidence, the administration’s defenses, and the unresolved questions—and explain why I support impeaching the secretary of defense. Visit the podcast website at https://www.neighborontheleft.com  

The voters delivered a resounding message in the 2026 midterms, handing Democrats control of Congress and leaving Republicans searching for answers. But what really drove the results? From the Iran war and economic frustration to immigration enforcement, government corruption, culture-war politics, and disastrous campaign strategies, we examine the decisions that helped produce a historic Republican defeat. And while Democrats have plenty to celebrate, they shouldn't confuse a rejection of Trump with an unconditional endorsement of their own party. We look at what the election revealed about both parties, why Democratic leadership needs to rethink its approach, and how the incoming Congress can pursue meaningful legislation and accountability at the same time. The voters have spoken. The question is whether Washington is finally prepared to listen. Visit the podcast website at https://www.neighborontheleft.com  

How historic was this midterm election, and what can earlier victories tell us about what happens next? From the New Deal and post-Watergate reforms to Gingrich’s Republican takeover, the 2010 redistricting strategy, and oversight during Trump’s first presidency, this Back Porch Files examines how congressional majorities used their power—and where they fell short. With Democrats preparing to take control of Congress, history offers lessons about leadership, accountability, confrontation, and turning an election victory into lasting change. Visit the podcast website at https://www.neighborontheleft.com  

Immigration detention is becoming a booming business, and taxpayers are footing the bill. From a nearly half-billion-dollar prison purchase in Minnesota to billions spent expanding detention capacity, private corporations are collecting enormous sums of public money. But are these investments necessary, financially responsible, and subject to meaningful oversight? We examine government contracting failures, political contributions, conditions inside detention facilities, and the financial incentives that may conflict with effective immigration enforcement. And we ask a fundamental question: If detention is supposed to be temporary, why is the government investing so heavily in permanent infrastructure to lock people up? Visit the podcast website at https://www.neighborontheleft.com  

What happens if Democrats win control of Congress and suddenly have the power to investigate the Trump administration? From White House construction projects and Trump family business dealings to immigration detention contracts, the Epstein files, Justice Department interference, and Pete Hegseth's Pentagon, the list of potential investigations is extensive. This episode examines the specific controversies that could face congressional scrutiny, the evidence that makes them worthy of investigation, and the powers Congress actually possesses to demand answers. But there's a bigger question: What happens if investigators uncover evidence of criminal wrongdoing and the Justice Department refuses to act? And with the 2028 election already on the horizon, can Democrats pursue genuine accountability without turning congressional oversight into political revenge? Visit the podcast website at https://www.neighborontheleft.com