Shows
Politics in PerspectiveS4. E5 In the Name of the Fathers: Religion and Politics in the Early Days of the RepublicDr. Jason Russell makes his hosting debut in this important episode on the proper role of religion in our politics. Joined by Dr. Marcia Bumgardner, they explore the historical context of church and state separation, highlighting pivotal moments from the founders' era and examining how these principles are interpreted today. They dive into contemporary issues such as religious requirements for public office and recent legislative measures in Texas and Oklahoma. Key events discussed include Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial Q&A at a Turning Points USA event and the implications of recent bills mandating religious displays in schools. The episode underscores...
2025-10-211h 03Politics in PerspectiveS4. E4 The Line Between Military and Law Enforcement: National Guard's RoleIn this episode of 'Politics in Perspective,' host Marcia Bumgardner is joined by Dr. Jason Russell and Dr. Charles McCoy to discuss the history and current use of the National Guard, with a focus on instances of federalization. They explore the legal framework, such as the Posse Comitatus Act, and examine historical examples like Little Rock in 1957 and the LA riots in 1992. The episode also delves into the recent deployment of National Guard troops in cities like Los Angeles and Washington D.C. analyzing the implications for federalism, democratic norms, and local law enforcement.00:00 Introduction to P...
2025-09-2354 minPolitics in PerspectiveS4. E3 Deescalating After Political ViolenceIn this episode of Politics in Perspective, Marcia, Jason, and Charles discuss the recent assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk and the broader issue of political violence in the United States. They explore the historical context of political violence, the importance of having a national conversation about deescalation, and strategies for teaching children to engage positively with politics. The discussion also highlights the significance of maintaining a healthy media diet and promotes community connections as a means to reduce political tensions.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic: Political Violence02:02 The Assassination of Charlie Kirk05:42 Historical Context of Pol...
2025-09-1645 minPolitics in PerspectiveS4. E2 Jackson Pollack, Jazz and Propaganda: Part 2In this episode of 'Politics in Perspective,' Marcia continues the conversation on propaganda with Dr. Jason Russell and Dr. Charles McCoy. The discussion delves into the overwhelming presence of propaganda in modern society and its sources, including government, media, and social media. They explore how propaganda has evolved from wartime efforts to current domestic political battles. The conversation covers visual propaganda, especially AI-generated images, and the role of social media in perpetuating misinformation. The hosts also provide practical advice on identifying signs of propaganda, such as overly simplified narratives and artificial dichotomies. The episode emphasizes the importance of...
2025-09-0958 minPolitics in PerspectiveS4. E1 When You Ride Alone, You Ride with Hitler: Propaganda Part 1In this episode of Politics in Perspective, Marcia, Charlesand Jason discuss the use of propaganda, from the Civil War to World War II, examining the evolution of propaganda tools and their impact on society. Charles highlights the differences between wartime andpolitical propaganda, exploring both its beneficial uses and potential harms. Marcia and Jason emphasize the importance of recognizing propaganda and understandingits underlying intentions to better navigate today's political landscape. The conversation sets the stage for a deeper exploration of modern-day propagandain the next episode.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:15 Purpose of the Po...
2025-09-021h 01Politics in PerspectiveS3. E9 The Alien Enemies Act and the Deportation of Kilmar Abrego GarciaIn this episode of Politics in Perspective, hosts Charles McCoy, Jason Russell, and Marcia Bumgardner discuss recent high-profile deportations under the Trump administration. The discussion focuses on the resurgence of the Alien Enemies Act, a historical law allowing expedited deportation, and its modern implications. They explore the background and historical context of the Act, the specifics of the Trump administration's use against alleged gang members, and the potential legal and ethical issues surrounding it. The conversation also delves into the importance of due process and the potential consequences of bypassing it, illustrated by the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia...
2025-04-1552 minPolitics in PerspectiveS3. E9 Law Firms Under Fire: Presidential Power and Legal ChallengesMarcia and Jason discuss the recent executive orders targeting prominent law firms that have opposed the Trump administration. The episode discusses the implications of these orders and highlights President Trump's unprecedented use of executive power to penalize specific firms and their clients. The discussion includes the motivations behind these actions, the reactions from the legal community, and the broader ramifications for presidential power and the rule of law. 00:00 Welcome to Politics in Perspective01:17 Introduction to Today's Topic: Executive Orders Targeting Law Firms02:50 Trump's Unusual Speech at the Department of Justice
2025-04-0847 minPolitics in PerspectiveS3. E8 How Did We Get NATO?In this episode of Politics in Perspective, host Marcia Bumgardner is joined by political scientist Jason Russell and historian Charles McCoy to explore NATO's role in U.S. foreign policy. The discussion delves into NATO's origins and significance post-World War II, the Berlin Airlift, and the Cold War dynamics. The conversation also covers more recent events, including the U.S. shift in policy towards Ukraine and Russia following a fallout between President Trump and President Zelensky. The episode debates the merits and challenges of NATO membership, explores the U.S.'s historical and current role in global politics, and...
2025-03-181h 05Politics in PerspectiveS3.7 Appeasement Then and Now: Reflections on US Foreign Policy and UkraineIn this episode of Politics in Perspective, Marcia, Jason and Charles discuss the US's current foreign policy toward Ukraine and how historical events from World War II, such as the Munich Agreement and European appeasement strategies, hold lessons for today. The conversation explores parallels between Hitler's actions pre-WWII and Putin's moves in Ukraine, debating whether modern diplomacy with Russia can realistically result in peace. The hosts discuss whether the US should continue support for Ukraine or if isolationism is a viable strategy.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic Overview02:11 Recent Developments in US-Ukraine Relations07:55 Historical Con...
2025-03-111h 10Politics in PerspectiveS3. E6 Mayor Adams and DOJ ResignationsIn this episode of 'Politics in Perspective,' Marcia, Charles, and Jason discuss the recent upheaval in the Department of Justice, dubbed the 'Thursday Night Massacre.' They delve into the implications of Mayor Eric Adams' bribery indictment and its controversial dismissal, drawing parallels to the Nixon-era 'Saturday Night Massacre.' The discussion covers the DOJ's internal conflicts, Trump administration's influence, and the historical context of presidential overreach. The team also highlights the political ripple effects and potential outcomes for the involved parties.00:00 Introduction and Overview01:25 Mayor Eric Adams' Bribery Scandal04:06 DOJ's Controversial Dec...
2025-02-2543 minPolitics in PerspectiveS3. E5 DOGE, Disruption, and the Department of EducationIn this episode, Marcia Bumgarner and Jason Russell discuss the significant changes to the Department of Education proposed by the Trump administration, particularly through a new executive order and the appointment of Linda McMahon. T They also touch on broader educational issues like Pell Grants, FAFSA, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The episode explores the ideological motives behind targeting the Department of Education and speculates on the possible reshaping of federal educational responsibilities. The hosts express concerns over the implications of rapid organizational changes and emphasize the need for strategic, cautious reform.00:00 Introduction and Overview
2025-02-1854 minPolitics in PerspectiveS3. E4 Ambition Counteracting Ambition? Trump's Executive Actions and the CourtsIn this episode of Politics in Perspective, Marcia, Charles, and Jason, delve into the concept of separation of powers in the U.S. government. The discussion centers around the extent of presidential authority and the checks that exist to balance this power. The team explores President Trump's recent executive actions, historical examples of Congressional pushback against presidential overreach, and the crucial role of the judicial branch in maintaining these checks and balances. They address contemporary concerns regarding the rule of law, the role of partisanship, and the significance of judicial review, emphasizing the strength and resilience of U.S...
2025-02-111h 01Politics in PerspectiveS3. E3 Tariffs: Economic Strategy or Political Tool?In this episode of Politics in Perspective, hosts Marcia Bumgardner and Charles McCoy delve into the complex topic of tariffs. They discuss the recent news on President Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, its potential implications for American consumers, and the broader economic landscape. Charles provides an insightful historical overview of tariffs in the U.S., from the Tariff Act of 1789 to modern trade policies.
The conversation explores the dual roles of tariffs in raising government revenue and protecting domestic industries, while also considering their impact on international relations and consumer prices...
2025-02-0455 minPolitics in PerspectiveS3. E2 From FDR to Trump: The Impact of Executive Orders
Exploring Executive Orders: From FDR's Japanese Internment to Trump's Birthright Citizenship
In this episode of 'Politics in Perspective,' hosts Charles McCoy and Jason Russell, along with special guest Dr. Abby Grubb, discuss the impact and implications of executive orders. They begin by examining President Trump's recent wave of executive actions, particularly focusing on his order regarding birthright citizenship. The conversation then delves into historical context with Dr. Grubb's expertise on FDR's Executive Order 9066, which led to the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. They explore the legal challenges, public reception, and long-term consequences of such orders...
2025-01-281h 09Politics in PerspectiveS3. E1 The First 100 Days of the Trump PresidencyBig news! Dr. Jason Russell officially joins the Politics in Perspective podcast as a co-host. In Jason's first official episode, he shares his expectations about the first 100 days of the Trump presidency. Charles explains where this idea of the first 100 days of a presidency got its start. And Marcia discusses Trump's communication style.
2025-01-2150 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2. E8 Kash Patel's Enemy List and the Purpose of the F.B.I.Historian Charles McCoy and Political Science expert Jason Russell join Marcia to discuss the recent election results, Trump's cabinet picks, and the significant changes in the FBI's leadership. The conversation explores the political landscape post-election, focusing on the nomination of Kash Patel for FBI director. The episode delves into the history of the FBI, examining parallels with J. Edgar Hoover's era, and discusses the Senate's role in confirming controversial nominees. The potential impact of Patel's appointment and the complexities of maintaining public trust in the FBI are key questions moving into 2025.
This will be...
2024-12-1757 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2. E7 Election Night Expectations: Recounts, Fraud Claims and Managing ExpectationsWelcome to the final episode of Politics in Perspective before the big 2024 election. In this episode, Charles McCoy shares heartwarming personal news, and friend of the pod, Dr. Jason Russell breaks down expectations for Election night. We cover what to look for in election challenges, the intricacies of polling and their margins of error, recounts, and the likelihood of election fraud verus election interference. We also discuss lessons learned from previous elections and the potential role of the Supreme Court involvement. Join us for a thorough breakdown of what to expect in the days leading up to and following...
2024-11-0458 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2.E6 Assassination Attempts: The Surprising Similarities Between Teddy's and Trump's Close CallsCharles does a deep dive into Presidential assassination attempts. Four sitting U.S. Presidents have died as a result of gunshot wounds, including the often-forgotten James Garfield. There are also a few surprising similarities between Teddy Roosevelt's close call and the recent attempt on Donald Trump.
2024-10-2350 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2.E5 Did the VP Debate Matter? The State of the Presidential Race 27 Days Out From Election DayLess than a month out from the Presidential Election, with an essentially tied race, what will move the dial for the campaigns? Marcia breaks down the Vice Presidential debate with special guests Dr. Cassandra Khatri and Dr. Jason Russell. The civility of the debate was a welcome change of pace for some viewers, but did it change the state of the race? What might matter more in these final days?
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2024-10-0852 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2.E4 It May Be a Long Election Night, Electoral College Math with Dr. Jason RussellMarcia breaks down the Electoral College with special guest Dr. Jason Russell. They explain the Nebraska and Maine method of allocating electors and how the outcome of the Presidential election might change if more states adopted this method. They also discuss the state of the race and why it may be a long election night!
2024-09-241h 00Politics in PerspectiveS2. E3 "They're Eating the Pets" Notable Moments From Tuesday Night's Debate and Presidential Debates of the PastMarcia discusses a few of the stand-out moments from Trump and Harris's Tuesday night debate. Charles tells us about how political debates have evolved from Lincoln-Douglas to the modern era of TV debate.
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2024-09-1358 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2.E2 Texas Politics Past and Present with Dr. Brandon RottinghausIn this episode, Marcia and Charles welcome Dr. Brandon Rottinghaus, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Houston. The discussion centers around Texas politics, the career of former Governor Rick Perry, and the shift in the Republican Party. Dr. Rottinghaus shares stories from his new book 'Rick Perry, a Political Life,' and details Perry's evolution from a conservative Democrat to a leading Republican figure. The conversation touches on Perry's legacy, including economic policies, criminal justice reform, and his mixed success in the national political arena. They also delve into the intra-party conflicts within the Texas GOP...
2024-09-0357 minPolitics in PerspectiveS2.1 The DNC and the State of the ElectionThe new season of Politics in Perspective kicks off with an exciting DNC Roundtable. Marcia and Charles get insights from political experts Jason Russell & Cody Pogue, plus in-depth analysis on Kamala’s big speech. Hit play and stay informed!
2024-08-261h 03Politics in PerspectiveS1.E8 Campus ProtestsIn the last few weeks, we've seen an explosion in campus protests across the country over the Israel-Gaza conflict. Charles discusses the campus protests of the 1960s and 70s, the Vietnam War, and Kent State. Marcia makes observations about the complexities of free speech rights and the creeping antisemitism that has made its way into some of the protests.
Time Place and Manner Restrictions
Time, Place and Manner Restrictions - The Free Speech Center (mtsu.edu)
"Ohio" Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young
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2024-05-091h 11Politics in PerspectiveS1.E7 Alejandro Mayorkas, Andrew Johnson, and Everything You Need to Know About ImpeachmentMarcia and Charles discuss the Senate's dismissal of the Mayorkas Impeachment and explain why this was inevitable. Charles takes us back to the very first Presidential Impeachment and answers all Marcia's questions about Andrew Johnson.
2024-04-251h 02Politics in PerspectiveS1.E6 Watergate, Iran-Contra and Why Political Scandals Don't Stick Like They Used ToNixon's Watergate scandal led to the first time in U.S. History that a President resigned from office. Charles and Marcia discuss former Presidents Nixon and Reagan, and why these past scandals hit differently than scandals of the present.
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2024-04-121h 05Politics in PerspectiveS1.E5 President's with Health Problems and the 25th AmendmentIn this episode, Charles and Marcia discuss times when U.S. Presidents have had major health problems or have died in office. Charles reminds us that James Garfield was shot and incapacitated for almost two months before he died, creating questions about who was in charge. The 25th Amendment was passed after the assassination of President Kennedy and provides more specific procedures for replacing Vice Presidents. It also addresses what could be done if the President is incapacitated or deemed unfit for office.
2024-03-2752 minPolitics in PerspectiveS1.E4 SCOTUS, Now Let Them Enforce ItWe're talking about the development of the Supreme Court this week. Marcia covers the latest SCOTUS ruling that rejected Colorado's attempt to remove Trump from the ballot. Charles talks through the landmark Marbury v. Madison ruling, Andrew Jackson's "now let them enforce it" sentiment and FDR's court-packing plan.
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2024-03-1259 minPolitics in PerspectiveS1.E3 Presidential Primaries and Crazy ConventionsThe Bull Moose Party, the 1968 Chicago Riots, and Reagan's Challenge to President Ford. Marcia takes a look at the current state of the 2024 presidential primaries and Charles discusses dramatic nomination contests of the past. This episode will get you ready for Super Tuesday!
2024-02-281h 06Politics in PerspectiveS1.E2 The Chinese Exclusion Act and Immigration Laws, Past and PresentMarcia discusses the recent Senate immigration bill and the conflict at the Texas border. Charles reminds us of early attempts at immigration restriction, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act, one of the first times race was used as a means of denying entry into the United States.
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Politics in PerspectiveS1.E1 Partisan Tensions, Something Entirely New?Accusations of mistresses, murders, and moral deficiencies abound. Are intense partisan tensions something entirely new? Maybe not. Charles and Marcia discuss the intense negative partisanship we are seeing in today's world. Charles provides a history of the formation of political parties, and notable partisan fights of the past: Jefferson and Adams, John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson, Preston Brooks and Charles Sumner.
2024-02-0255 min![A Podcast [ , ] For All Intents and Purposes](https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/e/2/d/4/e2d4b7ad52207f7388c4a68c3ddbc4f2/ShowCard20230825.jpg)
A Podcast [ , ] For All Intents and PurposesSmoke Time WEEK IN GEEK: Our hosts try to keep it short but, instead, keep it real as they talk about their respective Weeks in Geek. D. Bethel starts by talking about Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny before Andrew shares his thoughts about the first two episodes of the new Disney+ Star Wars show, Ahsoka. D. Bethel wraps it up with quick thoughts about Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. TOPICS: (00:00) Intro - Andrew's Birthday (04:45) D. Bethel really likes Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (13:44) Andrew brings a lo...
2023-08-2541 min