Digest

The episode kicks off with the host announcing his two-night stand in Asheville, North Carolina, and expressing his excitement for the city. He then delves into a week's worth of news, starting with RFK Jr.'s failed attempt to qualify for the presidential debate. The host humorously criticizes Kennedy's claims, suggesting that his brainworm is controlling his actions. Next, he addresses the rumors surrounding Noam Chomsky's death, revealing that the renowned linguist is actually alive and recovering from a stroke in Brazil. The host then shifts to Roger Stone, who was secretly recorded outlining plans to challenge the 2024 election results if Trump loses. Stone's plan involves lawyers, judges, and technology, which the host jokingly describes as a "notesap grocery list." The episode continues with a discussion about a trademark dispute case that involved a t-shirt mocking Trump's dick size, highlighting a potential rift between conservative Supreme Court justices Amy Coney Barrett and Clarence Thomas. The host then moves on to Boeing's dysfunctional corporate culture, where CEO David Calhoun admitted to intimidating whistleblowers. The host criticizes Boeing's actions and encourages whistleblowers to come forward. The episode also covers the Senate's blocking of a bill to ban bump stocks, which allow semi-automatic rifles to fire bullets as if they were machine guns. The host expresses his concern about the potential for violence and criticizes the Republican Party's stance on gun control. The episode then shifts to the House Ethics Committee's investigation of Matt Gaetz, confirming that it has spoken with more than a dozen witnesses and issued 25 subpoenas. The host expresses his appreciation for the committee's transparency and criticizes Gaetz's alleged actions. The episode also covers California Governor Gavin Newsom's proposal to implement more restrictions on kids' use of smartphones during the school day, citing Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's call for a warning label on social media. The host supports Newsom's proposal and criticizes the use of smartphones in schools. The episode then delves into a bizarre story about a Vermont Democrat whose tote bag was repeatedly soaked with water by a GOP State Representative. The host humorously criticizes the representative's actions and highlights the absurdity of the situation. The episode also covers the arrest of two climate protesters who sprayed orange powder paint on the ancient Stonehenge monuments. The host expresses his support for the protesters and criticizes the actions of those who are damaging the environment. The episode then shifts to a discussion about the upcoming North Carolina gubernatorial election, focusing on the Republican nominee, Mark Robinson. The host criticizes Robinson's past statements, including his Holocaust denialism and homophobic remarks. He encourages listeners to vote against Robinson and other extreme Republicans. The episode concludes with a segment called "America's Least Wanted," where the host highlights Robinson's extreme views and encourages listeners to learn more about him and other radical Republicans. The host also discusses the importance of voter turnout, especially among young people, and encourages listeners to get involved in the upcoming election. The episode then shifts to a discussion of the Vanderbilt Mansion and its history, including a humorous discussion of the mansion's "gay" aesthetic. The host describes the mansion's opulent decor, including its two billiard tables, two pools, and a fireplace that is actually three fireplaces side by side. He then shows a portrait of George Vanderbilt, the mansion's original owner, and jokes about his "mincing queerness." The host also discusses the mansion's servants' quarters and the importance of preserving history.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Asheville Announcement

This Chapter begins with the host introducing the episode and announcing his upcoming two-night stand in Asheville, North Carolina. He expresses his excitement for the city and his plans to spend time there.

00:02:42

News Roundup: RFK Jr., Noam Chomsky, Roger Stone, and the Supreme Court

This Chapter dives into a week's worth of news, starting with RFK Jr.'s failed attempt to qualify for the presidential debate. The host humorously criticizes Kennedy's claims, suggesting that his brainworm is controlling his actions. Next, he addresses the rumors surrounding Noam Chomsky's death, revealing that the renowned linguist is actually alive and recovering from a stroke in Brazil. The host then shifts to Roger Stone, who was secretly recorded outlining plans to challenge the 2024 election results if Trump loses. Stone's plan involves lawyers, judges, and technology, which the host jokingly describes as a "notesap grocery list." The episode continues with a discussion about a trademark dispute case that involved a t-shirt mocking Trump's dick size, highlighting a potential rift between conservative Supreme Court justices Amy Coney Barrett and Clarence Thomas.

00:07:17

Boeing's Dysfunctional Corporate Culture and Gun Control

This Chapter focuses on Boeing's dysfunctional corporate culture, where CEO David Calhoun admitted to intimidating whistleblowers. The host criticizes Boeing's actions and encourages whistleblowers to come forward. The episode also covers the Senate's blocking of a bill to ban bump stocks, which allow semi-automatic rifles to fire bullets as if they were machine guns. The host expresses his concern about the potential for violence and criticizes the Republican Party's stance on gun control.

00:09:56

Matt Gaetz Investigation, Smartphone Restrictions, and a Bizarre Tote Bag Story

This Chapter covers the House Ethics Committee's investigation of Matt Gaetz, confirming that it has spoken with more than a dozen witnesses and issued 25 subpoenas. The host expresses his appreciation for the committee's transparency and criticizes Gaetz's alleged actions. The episode also covers California Governor Gavin Newsom's proposal to implement more restrictions on kids' use of smartphones during the school day, citing Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's call for a warning label on social media. The host supports Newsom's proposal and criticizes the use of smartphones in schools. The episode then delves into a bizarre story about a Vermont Democrat whose tote bag was repeatedly soaked with water by a GOP State Representative. The host humorously criticizes the representative's actions and highlights the absurdity of the situation.

00:13:52

Climate Protests, the North Carolina Gubernatorial Election, and "America's Least Wanted"

This Chapter covers the arrest of two climate protesters who sprayed orange powder paint on the ancient Stonehenge monuments. The host expresses his support for the protesters and criticizes the actions of those who are damaging the environment. The episode then shifts to a discussion about the upcoming North Carolina gubernatorial election, focusing on the Republican nominee, Mark Robinson. The host criticizes Robinson's past statements, including his Holocaust denialism and homophobic remarks. He encourages listeners to vote against Robinson and other extreme Republicans. The episode concludes with a segment called "America's Least Wanted," where the host highlights Robinson's extreme views and encourages listeners to learn more about him and other radical Republicans.

00:21:17

Interview with Anderson Clayton, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party

This Chapter features an interview with Anderson Clayton, the chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party. Clayton discusses his journey to becoming chair at the age of 25, the challenges of navigating the political landscape in North Carolina, and the importance of voter turnout, especially among young people. He also highlights the importance of rural communities and the need for investment in rural economies. Clayton criticizes Mark Robinson's extreme views and encourages listeners to vote against him and other Republicans.

00:38:02

T.S. Madison Joins the Show and Discusses Pride

This Chapter features T.S. Madison, a drag queen and judge on RuPaul's Drag Race. Madison discusses her experiences in North Carolina, her partnership with House of Love Cocktails, and her desire to see trans superheroes and villains in media. She also shares her thoughts on the importance of pride and the need to celebrate it 365 days a year.

00:46:27

Four Score and Seven Queers Ago: Rating Recent Queer History Moments

This Chapter features a segment called "Four Score and Seven Queers Ago," where the host and T.S. Madison rate recent moments in queer history on a scale from one to eight, with eight being the most historic. They discuss leaked audio of Martha and Alito, Pope Francis's apology for using an Italian slur against gay men, Eddie Redmayne's performance in Cabaret, and the National Park Service's reversal of their ban on park employees wearing their uniforms in the Pride Parade.

00:58:36

Your Carolina: A Game About North Carolina

This Chapter features a game called "Your Carolina," where the host asks the audience to guess whether a story is from North Carolina or not. The stories cover a variety of topics, including the reopening of a gay bar, a middle school with a high number of twins, a vandal who paints rainbows, rivers failing fecal bacteria testing, and the discovery of an ancient village.

01:03:20

The Rant Wheel and Closing Remarks

This Chapter features the "Rant Wheel," where the host spins a wheel to determine the topic of his rant. He ends up ranting about octopus and his dislike for eating intelligent creatures. He also discusses the importance of rural broadband access and the need for better state legislators. The host concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to get involved in the upcoming election and to support organizations fighting for LGBTQ+ rights.

01:12:15

The Vanderbilt Mansion

This Chapter features a discussion of the Vanderbilt Mansion and its history, including a humorous discussion of the mansion's "gay" aesthetic. The host describes the mansion's opulent decor, including its two billiard tables, two pools, and a fireplace that is actually three fireplaces side by side. He then shows a portrait of George Vanderbilt, the mansion's original owner, and jokes about his "mincing queerness." The host also discusses the mansion's servants' quarters and the importance of preserving history.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the key issues facing the North Carolina Democratic Party in the upcoming election?

  The North Carolina Democratic Party is facing a challenging political landscape, with Republicans holding a supermajority in the state legislature and controlling the Supreme Court. The party is working to mobilize voters, especially young people, and to promote Democratic values in the state. Key issues include voter turnout, rural broadband access, and the fight against extreme Republican candidates like Mark Robinson.

• What are some of the concerns about Mark Robinson's candidacy for governor of North Carolina?

  Mark Robinson is a controversial figure in North Carolina politics, known for his extreme views, including his Holocaust denialism, homophobic remarks, and opposition to abortion. He has been criticized by the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce for being "bad for business." His candidacy has raised concerns about the future of the state and the direction of North Carolina politics.

• What is Project 2025 and why is it concerning?

  Project 2025 is a leaked document that outlines a plan for a conservative takeover of the United States government. It calls for a rollback of LGBTQ+ rights, restrictions on abortion access, and a crackdown on immigration. It has been widely criticized for its extreme views and its potential to have a significant impact on the United States.

• What is the importance of rural broadband access and what are the challenges in achieving it?

  Rural broadband is internet access in rural areas. It is a critical issue for rural communities, as it can provide access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. However, rural broadband access is often limited due to the high cost of infrastructure and the low population density in rural areas. The Biden administration has made rural broadband access a priority, investing billions of dollars in infrastructure projects. However, there are still challenges to overcome in ensuring that all rural communities have access to reliable and affordable broadband.

• What is the connection between corruption and anti-democratic politics?

  Anti-democratic politicians often pursue policies that benefit themselves and their allies, rather than the public good. This can include things like drawing unfair maps, restricting people's ability to vote, and using campaign finance laws to their advantage. These actions can undermine the integrity of elections and make it more difficult for the public to hold their elected officials accountable. This can lead to a cycle of corruption and anti-democratic behavior.

• What is the significance of the "Four Score and Seven Queers Ago" segment?

  The "Four Score and Seven Queers Ago" segment is a humorous and insightful look at recent moments in queer history. By rating these events on a scale from one to eight, the host and T.S. Madison highlight the importance of these events and their impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The segment also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the need for continued activism.

• What is the purpose of the "Your Carolina" game?

  The "Your Carolina" game is a fun and engaging way to learn about the state of North Carolina. By asking the audience to guess whether a story is from North Carolina or not, the host highlights the unique and diverse nature of the state. The game also serves as a reminder of the importance of local news and the need to stay informed about what is happening in our communities.

• What is the host's rant about octopus about?

  The host's rant about octopus is a humorous and thought-provoking commentary on the ethics of eating intelligent creatures. He argues that octopus is too smart to be eaten and that it is unethical to consume a creature that is capable of complex thought and behavior. The rant also highlights the host's own personal beliefs and his willingness to challenge conventional norms.

• What is the host's main message in this episode?

  The host's main message in this episode is a call to action for listeners to get involved in the upcoming election and to fight for a more just and equitable society. He encourages listeners to vote, to support organizations fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, and to hold their elected officials accountable. He also highlights the importance of local news and the need to stay informed about what is happening in our communities.

• What is the Vanderbilt Mansion and what is its significance?

  The Vanderbilt Mansion is a historic mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina. It was built by George Vanderbilt, a wealthy industrialist, in the late 19th century. The mansion is known for its opulent decor, including its two billiard tables, two pools, and a fireplace that is actually three fireplaces side by side. The mansion is also known for its history, including its role as a center of social life in Asheville and its connection to the Vanderbilt family. The mansion is now a popular tourist destination and a reminder of the Gilded Age.

Show Notes