Shows
The Politics GuysUkraine Peace Deal, Comey Case Tossed, Military OrdersMike, Tim, and Michael open with Trump’s 28-point Ukraine peace plan, built on Russian terms that demand territorial concessions, a NATO ban, limits on Ukraine’s army, and sweeping amnesty. Tim focuses on trading some Ukrainian territory for ironclad security guarantees, including foreign troops on the ground as real deterrence. Mike argues the U.S. should massively ramp up weapons and capabilities for Kyiv, rejecting escalation fears and warning that half-measures only reward aggression and embolden China over Taiwan. Michael sees the plan as politically and militarily a nonstarter, doubts any near-term peace is possible, and warns that Zele...
2025-11-291h 07
The Politics GuysA.I. in Political CampaignsTravis talks with Dr. Michael Cohen, author of Modern Political Campaigns, and Julie Sweet, author of the American Association of Political Consultants’ Deepfake Law Compliance Guide for Political Campaigns, about the role of artificial intelligence in political campaigns.
Topics Travis, Julie, and Michael cover include:
How campaigns are using AI and how they can be compliant with state laws and regulations
What the use of AI will mean for the future of the campaign workforce
The current state of and future prospects for academic research on AI in campaigns and elections...
2025-11-1950 min
The Politics GuysAI Bubble, Trump’s Pardons, Biden’s AutopenMike, Michael, and Tim open with a discussion of the missing economic data and what that means for understanding the current economy. Tim explains that while unemployment remains low and markets are strong, uncertainty looms because key government reports haven’t been released. Mike argues that the apparent strength is concentrated almost entirely in AI and tech stocks, raising fears of an unsustainable bubble. Michael agrees the boom feels narrow and risky, warning that layoffs and overinvestment could lead to a painful reckoning. Tim counters that disruptive innovation has always produced temporary upheaval before lasting growth, while Mike remains un...
2025-11-0418 min
The Politics GuysShutdown Showdown, Trump’s Asia Trip, the CFPB’s Slow DemiseMike, Tim, and Michael open with the fifth week of the government shutdown, now poised to become the longest ever. Tim argues that while the disruption is real, the economic impact will be minor and short-lived, suggesting resolution will come after the elections. Michael delivers a fiery critique, calling the shutdown political theater that hurts ordinary people and decrying Republican fiscal hypocrisy. Mike underscores the tangible harm to citizens, emphasizing that the ACA subsidy fight shows how deeply broken the system is.
Next, the guys turn to President Trump’s Asia tour — a mix of spectacle and deal...
2025-11-011h 08
Talking Billions with Bogumil BaranowskiMichael Gielkens: The Culture of Permanence: How European Family Holdings Survive Crises and Compound for CenturiesLong-Term Stewardship, the Lindy Effect, and Why Alignment Matters More Than ValuationFind me on Substack: https://bogumilbaranowski.substack.com/Michael Gielkens is a partner and co-founder of Tresor Capital, a Netherlands-based independent investment boutique specializing in actively managing wealth through family holding companies and serial acquirers, with deep expertise in capital allocation and owner-operator alignment.EPISODE NOTES3:00 - Discussion of Omaha Berkshire meeting as unique phenomenon bringing global investors together; Michael’s Dutch-American background and financial upbringing with CFO father teaching value of money6:00 - Netherlands as birthplace of...
2025-10-131h 01
The Politics GuysFBI in Crisis, Venezuelan Strikes, Listener QuestionsMike and Michael open with the turmoil inside the FBI under Director Kash Patel, highlighting Patel’s public clashes with Congress, mass agent departures, and lawsuits alleging unlawful firings. Michael argues that Patel is dangerously unqualified and politicizing the Bureau, while Mike stresses the long-term damage caused by the loss of experienced agents and the trend toward authoritarian-style loyalty tests.
Next, they turn to the U.S. military’s sinking of Venezuelan boats allegedly tied to drug trafficking, which killed over a dozen people. Michael warns that the strikes are illegal, reckless, and set a chilling precedent, whil...
2025-09-2319 min
The Politics GuysCharlie Kirk Reactions, Trump and Crime, Government FundingMike is joined by a new host, political scientist Michael Levy. They open with the political and constitutional fallout from Charlie Kirk’s murder, focusing on government crackdowns on speech. Michael stresses the deeper problem of weaponizing government against dissent, while Mike argues this shows the split between Trump loyalists and constitutional conservatives like Ted Cruz.
Next, they turn to Trump’s deployment of National Guard units to cities like Memphis and proposals for tougher sentencing in D.C. Michael emphasizes that these measures are often more about optics than addressing root causes of crime, while Mike worr...
2025-09-2058 min
The Politics GuysModern Political CampaignsTravis talks with political scientist, Johns Hopkins professor, and CEO of Cohen Research Group, Dr. Michael Cohen about his new book, Modern Political Campaigns: How Professionalism, Technology, and Speed Have Revolutionized Elections, in which he provides insight into the practical nature of managing political campaigns and an insider’s advice on breaking into careers in the field of political consulting. Topics Travis and Michael cover include:
Why professionalism, technology, and speed are the hallmark features of modern political campaigns
The role of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in political campaigning and the ethical considerations cam...
2025-04-161h 04Talking Billions with Bogumil BaranowskiMichael W. Sonnenfeldt, the Founder & Chairman of TIGER 21: Think Bigger: Winning Strategies from Successful EntrepreneursMichael W. Sonnenfeldt is the Founder & Chairman of TIGER 21, the premier peer membership organization for high-net-worth wealth creators and preservers, and author of Think Bigger: And 39 Other Winning Strategies from Successful Entrepreneurs. He is a serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political thought leader. Through his private investment company, MUUS & Company, he has holdings in alternative energy technologies. In 1980, he led the Harborside Financial Center transformation in New Jersey, the largest U.S. commercial renovation at the time.
Summary
In this conversation, Michael Sonnenfeld, founder of Tiger 21, shares insights on the journey from entrepreneurship to investment, emphasizing...
2024-12-161h 12Talking Billions with Bogumil BaranowskiMichael McCloskey: If Investing Was Like Painting... Lessons from A Path to Mastery(I’ll be posting two episodes per week for a little bit to catch up with all the summer recordings. Enjoy!)
My guest today is Michael McCloskey, who founded and manages Greenskeeper, a value investing firm. Michael and I met at Guy Spier’s VALUEx Conference. We snowshoed together in the Swiss Alps at some point and shared many conversations both in Switzerland and at Buffett’s Berkshire Meeting in Omaha. Today, we talk about thoughtful, disciplined stockpicking, and the passion for a particular kind of investing, and lessons from running an investment firm.
Michael gradua...
2024-08-281h 17
The Politics GuysLuttig vs Trump, MAGA vs Taylor Swift, State of the Democratic PartyMike and Ken open the preview of this supporters’ midweek episode with a detailed look at why conservative former federal judge Michael Luttig believes Donald Trump is ineligible to run for president. They discuss both Luttig’s arguments against the Court ducking the issue and his substantive case against Trump as an insurrectionist.Following that, they discuss why MAGA world is so unhappy with Taylor Swift and consider the present state and near-future prospects for the Democratic Party. The Politics Guys on Facebook | X Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. You can supp...
2024-02-0619 min
The Politics GuysThe Law of Presidential ImpeachmentMike talks with Michael Gerhardt, a professor of jurisprudence at the University of North Carolina Law School and a long-time student of presidential impeachment. He’s the author of the just-released book, The Law of Presidential Impeachment: A Guide for the Engaged Citizen, which is the topic of their discussion.Topics Discussed Include: - why impeachment is in the Constitution - if impeachment has been underutilized - the threat of impeachment as a check on abuse of power - the misconception that impeachment is a political process...
2024-01-1050 min
The Politics GuysJudge Pierre Bergeron on State Courts, Criminal Sentencing, and Trial by JuryMike talks with Pierre Bergeron, a judge on Ohio’s 1st District Court of Appeals about judicial elections, state constitutional interpretation & abortion rights, the lack of good sentencing data & why it matters, and Judge Bergeron’s concerns about how few cases result in trials by jury.Measures for JusticeHow a Spreadsheet Could Change the Criminal Justice System. Pierre Bergeron and Michael Donnelly. The Atlantic, December 14, 2020.The Missing American Jury. Suja ThomasThe Politics Guys on Facebook | Twitter | MastodonListener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. You can support us...
2023-01-0359 minThe Politics GuysThat’s Not Funny: Matt Sienkiewicz on Right-Wing HumorMike talks with Matt Sienkiewicz, an Associate Professor and Chair of the Boston College Communication Department. He's the co-author, along with Nick Marx, of That's Not Funny: How the Right Makes Comedy Work for Them.Topics Mike & Matt Discuss Include: - why most political comedy is left of center - the main types of right of center comedy - “punching up” vs “punching down” in comedy - conservative humor challenging liberal pieties - the biggest names in right wing comedy - why right-wing comedy matters, even if...
2022-06-221h 07The Politics GuysRussia & Ukraine, SCOTUS & Social Media, Sussmann Acquittal, Guns, Heard-Depp, Katz FiringMike & Jay open with a discussion of where we’re at 100 days after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. Jay is optimistic, and much more so than he was in the early days. Mike largely agrees but is concerned that the pro-Ukraine alliance is beginning to show signs of fraying and might not hold up in the long run, especially in tough economic times.Next, they discuss the social media laws passed by Texas and Florida and the Supreme Court’s recent 5-4 decision to temporarily halt Texas’ law. Mike sees these laws as blatantly unconstitutional on multip...
2022-06-041h 00The Politics GuysRussian Invades Ukraine, Biden’s Nominates Ketanji Brown Jackson, 1st Amendment vs LGBTQ+ Anti-DiscriminationMike & Jay are joined by Trey on this episode of the podcast, which starts off with an extended discussion of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The guys get into likely outcomes, Putin’s strategic savvy, the ineffectiveness of sanctions, democratic vs authoritarian regimes, prospects for energy policy in Europe, the GOP split in reactions to Putin and Russia, how Russia’s actions might affect China’s view of a Taiwan, and a lot more.Then it’s a look at Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, President Biden’s nominee to fill the Supreme Court seat of retiring Justice Stephen Brey...
2022-02-2655 minThe Politics GuysOmicron Variant, Oil Reserve Release, Arbery Verdict, Biden’s Fed Nominations, Tucker Carlson’s “Patriot Purge”Mike and Jay start off this week’s show with late-breaking news about the emergence of the Omicron COVID variant. Jay brings up the inherent non-political nature of viruses, whereas Mike argues that responses to viruses are inherently political, and that the US and other wealthy countries can and should be doing more.Next, they discuss President Biden’s release of 50 million barrels of oil from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve in coordination with oil reserve releases in other countries. They agree that this move is both political and largely symbolic. Jay believes the administration should make it l...
2021-11-2736 min
Movies on the SideInterstellar (2014)Time slippage, Michael Caine impressions, and a space epic that gets the science right: join us for our review of Interstellar!Interstellar (2014) - IMDbInterstellar (2014) on Rotten TomatoesChristopher Nolan and Kip Thorn InterviewNeil deGrasse Tyson on InterstellarListen to our bonus episodes on Patreon!Social Links:MOTS InstagramMOTS TwitterMOTS FacebookSupport the show and access our weekly bonus episodes!Suggest a Bad Movie!Support the showWatch our episodes on YouTube!Subscribe at: youtube.com/@moviesonthesideFollow us here:MOTS on InstagramMOTS on TikTokMOTS on FacebookMOTS on...
2021-02-2851 minThe Politics GuysTrump Pardons Flynn, Transition, SCOTUS Religion Order, The Economy & COVIDMike & Jay start off the show discussing President Trump’s pardon of Michael Flynn, which they both agree was justified. Then it’s a discussion of the transition from the Trump to Biden administration and their thoughts on the people Biden has named to top positions so far. After that they look at the Supreme Court’s recent order on New York’s restrictions on religious gatherings due to COVID as well as the potential for another round of COVID relief in the Trump administration.The Politics Guys on Facebook | TwitterMike’s Article...
2020-11-281h 00The Politics GuysElection 2020: Trump and Biden on COVID-19 and HealthcareIn this installment of our “Election 2020” series featuring six Northern Kentucky University students, we discuss President Trump’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, Joe Biden’s proposals for dealing with COVID-19, Trump’s attempts to repeal Obamacare and what, if anything, he’d put in its place, access to abortion, and Biden’s plan for “Obamacare 2.0”.
How many needless Covid-19 deaths were caused by delays in responding? Most of them (Stat)Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.Join the conversation on The Po...
2020-09-091h 02The Politics GuysLaw & Order, CDC Eviction Moratorium, Vaccine by Nov 1?, Trump vs WHO on Vaccine ProgramOn this week's show, Mike and Kristin tackle some major issues facing the country - and voters - right now. They weigh in on the issue of law and order, protests and riots taking place, and whether voters will be swayed by statements made by the Trump and Biden campaigns to address the violence. They also unpack some COVID policy issues, including the Trump Administration's CDC moratorium on evictions, as well as the possibility of a vaccine by Nov. 1 and the Trump Administration's withdrawal from the WHO's vaccine efforts.Mike’s Weekly Recommendation...
2020-09-051h 04The Politics GuysElection 2020: What Makes a Good President?, VP Picks, Polls & PredictionsIn this installment of our “Election 2020” series featuring six Northern Kentucky University students, we discuss the most important qualities for a president to have and the extent to which Donald Trump and Joe Biden possess them, the importance of Vice President picks, a cautionary note about polls, and “most likely” and “worst case” presidential and congressional election predictions.
An Evaluation of 2016 Election Polls in the U.S.
FiveThirtyFight’s Presidential Election Forecast
What an Electoral College Tie Might Look Like
Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.
2020-09-0251 minThe Politics GuysRepublican Convention, Kenosha, Republicans for BidenMike and Jay emblazon their names across the sky as they discuss RNC's unconventional convention. Then the discussion turns to Kenosha and the politics and morality of leadership in a tinderbox, followed by a look at the reason or reasons that some former Republican officials are supporting Biden.Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.Join the conversation on The Politics Guys Facebook page.Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re interested in supporting the po...
2020-08-2956 minThe Politics GuysElection 2020: Vote Fraud & Election SecurityWe’re very happy to bring you the first part of a new series on the 2020 election, featuring Mike and six Northern Kentucky University students. Our focus will be largely on policy, with topics to include COVID-19, healthcare, economic policy, immigration, foreign & defense policy, race & gender, and lots more.In this episode, Mike explains the project, we meet the students, and then have our initial discussion - on vote fraud and election security.This is something new for us and we'd love your feedback. If you have any questions, co...
2020-08-261h 01The Politics GuysThe Democratic National Convention, The Senate Intelligence Report, Steve BannonTrey and Ken dive deep into the new format of the Democratic Convention, look at all 966 pages of the Senate Intelligence Report part five, and the arrest and charges against Steve Bannon for fraud.This Week's RecommendationsTrey suggests you check out Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True HomeKen suggest you check out Reconstruction: Political and EconomicBe part of the discussion on the Politics Guys BipartisanPoliticsListener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If yo...
2020-08-2255 minThe Politics GuysReforming Criminal Justice: Plea Bargaining, “Legal Fictions”, and SentencingMike talks with Ohio State Supreme Court Justice Michael Donnelly about reforming the plea bargaining process, the Michael Flynn case and “legal fictions”, the Paul Manafort case and sentencing guidelines, why we need sentencing databases, and lots more!
Truth or Consequences: Making the Case for Transparency and Reform in the Plea Negotiation Process (PDF)
State Supreme Court rejects truth-in-sentencing rule
Florida’s broken sentencing system
Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re...
2020-08-191h 00The Politics GuysLet Them Eat Tweets!Mike opens the show with some brief comments on Joe Biden choosing Kamala Harris, the USPS and the 2020 election, and the agreement between the UAE and Israel. After that is his interview with political scientists Jacob Hacker (Yale) and Paul Pierson (Berkeley) about their new book, Let Them Eat Tweets: How the Right Rules in an Age of Extreme Inequality. Following the interview, Jay joins Mike for some conservative commentary.Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.Listener support helps make The Politics Guys...
2020-08-151h 42The Politics GuysCoronavirus Legislation, Primary Elections, Medicaid ExpansionMike and Jay discuss the impasse in the latest coronavirus legislation, President Trump’s promise to issue executive orders, the latest primary elections, and yet another state’s voters approving Medicaid expansion.Mike’s Weekly RecommendationThe Bulwark’s Daily NewsletterJay’s Weekly RecommendationNo Property in Man. Sean WilentzBe part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit.Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re interested in su...
2020-08-081h 05The Politics GuysStella Immanuel, Barr Testifies, Big Tech Hearings, Stimulus StallsTrey and Ken discuss Stella Immanuel and the other frontline doctors and what it means to think critically, rationality, and scientifically. They also tackle the failures by House Democrats to hold Attorney General Barr accountable as well the House’s hearings with Apple, Facebook, Amazon and Google’s CEOs. Finally they discuss the gridlock over further COVID stimulus funds and why unemployment benefits are the sticking point.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-politics-guys/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Learn more a...
2020-08-011h 03The Politics GuysPortland Protests, Operation Legend, Census Concerns, Cancelled Convention, COVID-19Mike and Kristin discuss the Portland unrest that seems to have escalated with the arrival of federal officers, as well as the separate issue of Operation Legend in cities across the country. They also take on the issue of President Trump’s executive order to discount undocumented immigrants in the Census with regard to congressional redistricting, as well as cancellation of the in-person events at Republican National Convention and COVID-19 concerns.Mike’s Weekly RecommendationI Can Help (1974, Billy Swann)I Can Help (1989, The Replacements - featuring Tom Waits)
2020-07-251h 03The Politics GuysJohn Lewis, Masks, Federal Executions, Trump Campaign ShakeupRalph Waldo Emerson said that “Society is a masked ball, where every one hides his real character, and reveals it by hiding." Mike and Jay talk about masks, character, and who's hiding what in the Georgia- Atlanta spat, CDC guidance, and Trump's approach to facial coverings. Then the first federal execution in 17 years opens up a discussion about the death penalty, if and how it should be applied, and who should decide those questions. And Trump once again proves himself to the George Steinbrenner of politics by replacing another campaign manager. Does this signal a change in direction, or just...
2020-07-181h 01The Politics GuysStone Commutation, Opening Schools, SCOTUS on Trump’s Finances & the Electoral CollegeThis week, Mike & Jay discuss the commutation of Roger Stone’s sentence by President Trump, the Trump administration’s push to open up schools this fall, international student visas, and big Supreme Court rulings on the release of Donald Trump’s financial records and whether presidential electors can be punished or replaced for being “faithless”.Mike’s Weekly RecommendationZoe’s Extraordinary Playlist Jay’s Weekly RecommendationThe First Salute. Barbara TuchmanBe part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanP...
2020-07-1158 minThe Politics GuysIndependence Day, COVID Masks, Russian Bounties, Abortion Rights, Religious FreedomOn this week's show, Mike and Kristin kick things off by discussing some of the recent developments in COVID-19 news and the differences in how governors and the President have handled mask-wearing. They also talk about allegations of Russian bounties on US troops as well as two recent SCOTUS decisions handed down this week, one involving abortion rights (June Medical Services v. Russo) and one involving religious freedom (Espinoza v. Montana), as well as related issues of activist judges and precedent in similar cases. Mike’s Weekly Recommendation1776 (musical)John Ada...
2020-07-0459 minThe Politics GuysPolicing Bills, Berman Firing, Flynn Ruling, Immigration Order, COVID IncreaseMike & Jay start off by discussing the House and Senate versions of legislation intended to address systemic problems with policing in the United States. They agree that neither side has much reason to compromise in the run-up to the 2020 elections, but they feel that there’s actually a good amount of ground on which a compromise could be possible.After that, they take up the firing of US Attorney Geoffrey Berman. Mike argues that the whole thing was handled incompetently, and Jay feels that it’s yet another example of the GOP not being all...
2020-06-271h 04The Politics GuysBolstock, DACA, BoltonOn today's show, Trey and Ken discuss Bostock v. Clayton County and the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The discussion leads them to discuss the implications of various methods the court uses, or ought to use, in interpreting law.Trey and Ken also talk DACA and the downfall of the Trump administration's use of illegality to try to end DACA. The two speculate as to why this was the method used and what it means for Dreamers in the future.Finally Trey and Ken discuss Bolton's upcoming book The Room Where...
2020-06-201h 00The Politics GuysBuilding Better Police & Problematic PrimariesOn today’s show, Mike and Kristin begin by discussing several developments in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, including some of the legislation put forth or discussed by Republicans and Democrats recently, aimed at eliminating police violence. They also bring up the issue of police culture, as well as the argument for reforming and changing police culture - as opposed to defunding the police.Mike and Kristin also touch on some of the big problems that occurred on Tuesday, June 9th, as primary voters in five states went to the polls. Issues with...
2020-06-131h 08The Politics GuysJeffrey Sachs on The Ages of GlobalizationMike talks with economist Jeffrey Sachs, University Professor and director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University. Dr. Sachs is also director of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network and has been advisor to three UN secretaries-general. In addition to being one of the world's leading experts on poverty and economic development, he is the author of many influential, best-selling books, including The Age of Sustainable Development, The Price of Civilization, Building the New American Economy, and, most recently, The Ages of Globalization, which they discuss on the show.Topics discussed in...
2020-06-0955 minThe Politics GuysGeorge Floyd Protests, Jobs Report, Rosenstein TestimonyMike & Jay start off the show with an extended discussion of the nationwide protest that continue in the wake of the death of George Floyd. They start with policy, finding a surprising amount of agreement on things that can be done on the national, state, and local levels to improve policing. Then it’s a look at President Trump’s response to the violence that accompanied many protests, and presidential detractors like former Trump Secretary of Defense James Mattis.Next they discuss the shockingly good jobs report. While it’s not the unalloyed wonderful news P...
2020-06-061h 14The Politics GuysLane Kenworthy on Social Democratic CapitalismMike talks with Lane Kenworthy, a Professor of Sociology at UC San Diego. They discuss his latest book, Social Democratic Capitalism.Topics discussed include:- what social democratic capitalism is- if social democratic capitalism is only possible in rich countries- economic growth and dynamism- the Nordic example, and whether it can be applied elsewhere- how the United States stacks up to other wealthy countries- whether the United States can - or should - move toward social democratic c...
2020-06-0356 min
The Politics GuysFloyd, Twitter, TrumpThis week Trey is joined by Ken and the pair begin the show discussing the evolving situation over the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota. This includes discussion of the protests, the recent charges of third degree murder, and the long-term ramifications for the African American community. Next the Trey & Ken discuss President Trump's executive order on Preventing Online Censorship. Ken thinks there is no real substantive meaning to it, rather it is simply bluster. Trey wonders if the order is designed to allow a civil suit against Twitter by President Trump. This Week's Recommendations
2020-05-301h 07
The Politics GuysCapitalism, AloneMike talks with economist Branko Milanovic. Dr. Milanovic is Visiting Presidential Professor at the Stone Center of Socio-Economic Inequality at the Graduate Center, City University of New York. He was formerly Lead Economist in the World Bank's research department. He's also the author of a number of books, including Capitalism, Alone: The Future of the System That Rules the World, which they discuss on this episode. Topics covered include: - the benefits of capitalism- the different forms of capitalism- the liberal meritocratic capitalism of the United States- rising economy i...
2020-05-2759 min
The Politics GuysInspector General Firings, Trump Threatens MI & NV Over Elections, The WHO and ChinaOn this week’s show, Mike and Kristin take on President Trump’s firing of State Department Inspector General Steve Linick, a move prompted by a recommendation from Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. They also discuss Trump’s threats to withhold funding from Michigan and Nevada after each state announced plans to mail all voters statewide requests for vote-by-mail forms and the actual ballots, respectively. Finally, Mike and Kristin weigh in on the relationship between the WHO and China, whether President Trump’s threat to withhold funding was warranted, and the WHO’s subsequent move to independently investigate the response to...
2020-05-231h 00
The Politics GuysTitle IX Clarification, Michael Flynn & the Russia Investigation, Trillions More for COVID Aid?Mike & Jay start off the show with Mike trying to explain that while he’s for the recent Title IX sexual harassment / abuse procedural rules (as is Jay) he has more of an issue with their being a mandate (in theory, at least). Then, it’s a discussion of the latest developments in the case against Michael Flynn. Mike sees a lot of bad behavior all around, and Jay doesn’t disagree. They both seem to think that the biggest potential problem is an intelligence & law enforcement community that seems to be doing more than just cutting a few c...
2020-05-1557 min
The Politics GuysMichael Flynn, FBI Abuses, An Independent Attorney General?, New Title IX RulesIt's big week for due process. Mike and Jay talk about the Justice Department's decision to drop the case against Michael Flynn, FBI abuses, and Mike makes a pitch for an Independent Justice Department. Then they discuss the new Department of Education rules guaranteeing rights to the accused in school sexual harassment and assault cases. Then it gets sort of weird. The full text of the DOJ filing to dismiss charges against Michael Flynn Mike's YouTube page Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit. Listener suppor...
2020-05-091h 06
The Politics GuysThe Politics Guys & The Brown Girls Guide to PoliticsMike talks with A’shanti Gholar, creator and host of The Brown Girls Guide to Politics podcast. Topics they discuss include: COVID-19’s disproportionate effects on minorities whether President Trump is racist, and if it matters demographic representation in Congress why the Democratic Party is so much more diverse than the GOP what Republicans can to do attract more minorities, without abandoning their core principles & beliefs Joe Biden’s potential VP choices what women & minorities can reasonably expect from a Biden administration what four more years of a Trump administration might mean for women & minorities what white males most o...
2020-05-0553 min
The Politics GuysBiden, Armed Protests, AmashTrey & Ken start the show talking Biden's response to sexual assault allegation from Tara Reade. Next the pair move to discussing COVID, but primarily focusing on the armed protests in Michigan. Trey & Ken close the show discussing the entrance into the presidential race of newly minted Libertarian Amash and potential Green Party candidate Ventura. This Week's Recommendations Trey suggests you check out Jack Ryan on Amazon Prime. Ken is reading The New York Review of Books. Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit. List...
2020-05-021h 01
The Politics GuysCOVID Aid, Immigration Shutdown, States Reopening, SCOTUS on EPA RegulationOn this week’s show, Mike and Kristin take on more COVID-19 related stories and policy issues, including the most recent aid package, President Trump’s immigration proclamation, and state “exit strategies” for lockdown and plans to reopen economies. Mike and Kristin also discuss the complex, recently-decided Supreme Court case of County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund. They also share their recommendations for some non-COVID related entertainment. Mike’s Weekly RecommendationOpen Psychometrics ‘Which Character Are You?’ QuizThe Reluctant Detective (Mike’s P.I. book in progress) Kristin’s Weekly RecommendationImagineering in...
2020-04-251h 07
The Politics GuysCOVID-19 & Federalism, Grading the Response, The WHO and ChinaMike & Jay open the show with a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of federalism in light of President Trump’s claim of ‘total authority’ and his suggestion that Democratic governors were like mutinous sailors. Following that, they grade the preparation and response of both the administration and Congress to the pandemic. They close by talking about whether or not the WHO was too credulous or complicit in supporting China’s erroneous early reports about COVID-19. This Week’s RecommendationsMike suggests you check out (and even comment on) The Reluctant Detective, his book in progress. He also re...
2020-04-181h 01
The Politics GuysSanders Out, Wisconsin Votes, Trump Removes Michael Atkinson and Glenn FineTrey and Ken open the show discussing the suspension of Sanders' campaign. The pair talk about what it means for democratic socialism and the Democratic Party more widely. Trey sees this as the broader failure of ideologies of class and Ken sees it as the beginning of a potential turn for democratic socialism. Next, in a bit of disagreement, Trey and Ken spar over the Supreme Court's ruling concerning the Wisconsin primary. While both agree that the fault primarily lies with the state, they disagree over what role the Supreme Court should have played. They also disagree...
2020-04-1158 min
The Politics GuysStay-At-Home Extended, Encouraging Numbers?, SBA Loan Program, Resource Fights, MasksThis week, Mike and Kristin talk about all things COVID-19. The bigger issues involve President Trump’s extended stay-at-home guidelines, the cultural impact of social distancing and stay-at-home orders, and some encouraging statistics. They also discuss the reality of economic issues we face, jobless numbers, the SBA loan program rolled out this week, states haggling over resources, and changing information about wearing face masks to reduce the virus spread. This Week’s RecommendationsMike suggests you check out (and even comment on) The Reluctant Detective, his book in progress. He also recommends the Hulu show Puppy Prep...
2020-04-041h 06
The Politics GuysCoronavirus Stimulus, Defense Production Act, Restarting the EconomyMike, Jay, and Trey open the show with a discussion of the federal government’s economic response to the coronavirus pandemic - both the $2 trillion legislation passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump as well as the Federal Reserve’s multi-trillion dollar promise to do whatever it takes to keep the economy functioning. After that, they discuss President Trump’s recent invocation of the Defense Production Act, focusing on how it may help areas most affected by coronavirus. Then they debate whether it’s too soon to restart the economy, if President Trump is being ir...
2020-03-281h 00
The Politics GuysReasons to be Rationally Optimistic About The Coronavirus PandemicIn this special episode, Mike and Trey suggest reasons to feel at least potentially optimistic about the coronavirus pandemic. Their reasons for optimism cover likely outcomes, government response, and longer term ramifications. They also share some things they’ve found useful in coping with the crisis. (Such as Mike’s recommendation to fellow liberals to check out moderate-right news sources like The Bulwark and National Review.) Today’s SponsorThe sponsor for today’s show is Coronavirus Daily Briefing. Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit. Listener sup...
2020-03-241h 01
The Politics GuysCoronavirus, Ohio's Primary That Wasn't, Social Media in an EmergencyOn this special episode Trey and Ken are joined by Mike. They begin the show discussing the California lockdown, the first of its kind in the country, and the Senate Republican direct payment relief plan. Next the trio talk about the Democratic primary, focused primarily on the primary that wasn't in Ohio. They finish the show discussing social media in an emergency and their respective weekly recommendations. Recommendations Mike's Recommendation is his own, ongoing creation: The Reluctant Detective. Mike also recommends two books, both by Pema Chordon: When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice fo...
2020-03-2155 min
The Politics GuysThomas Philippon on How America Gave Up on Free MarketsMike talks with Thomas Philippon, a Professor of Finance at the Stern School of Business at New York University. Professor Philippon is a member of the Monetary Policy Advisory Panel of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the author of the recently released book, The Great Reversal: How America Gave Up On Free Markets, which they discuss on this episode. Topics discussed include: the many benefits of competition how and why the US became much less competitive over the last two decades how, in many ways, Europe is actually much more competitive than the...
2020-03-1756 min
The Politics GuysCoronavirus Pandemic Response & How Moderate is Joe Biden, Anyway?Mike and Kristin discuss the many political and policy implications of the Coronavirus pandemic. They begin with a synopsis of the past week and a review of Trump’s address and press conference, the takeaways, the stock market rebound, and their thoughts. Then, they weigh some of the deeper policy issues that this crisis has dredged up - public health funding, emergency preparedness, paid sick leave, and government embracing big tech. They also discuss how moments like this often have lasting effects on culture, and vice versa. Finally, Mike and Kristin turn to the Democratic Primary and ha...
2020-03-141h 02
Movies on the SideKnives Out (2019)What would 007 sound like with a New Orleans’ accent? Can Don Johnson spend an entire movie delivering cringy lines? Is Michael Shannon a perma-villain? Find out all this and MORE as review the 2019 murder-mystery, Knives Out! Then stay for our Top 5 airports (thanks listener Jackson!)Knives Out (2019) on IMDbTell us what you’d like to hear on our 100th episode!Support the Show!Social Links:MOTS InstagramMOTS TwitterMOTS FacebookMOTS on PatreonSuggest a Bad Movie!Support the showWatch our episodes on YouTube!Subscribe at: youtube.com/@moviesontheside
2020-03-0855 min
The Politics GuysSuper Tuesday, Biden Rising, Bloomberg & ‘Buying an Election’, Warren & Sexism, Coronavirus ResponseMike and Jay discuss the state of the Democratic primary in the aftermath of a Biden resurgence. Mike Bloomberg makes us wonder whether anyone can,in fact, buy an election and Mike and Jay give their takes on Elizabeth Warren's "sexism" comments. Then the discussion turns to the political and economic impact of the coronavirus and whether the crisis highlights Trump's incompetence or confirms validity of some of his platform points. Finally, Mike and Jay recommend some stuff to read that is older than the remaining presidential candidates. Jay & Mike’s Recommended Reading- Ohi...
2020-03-071h 04
The Politics GuysPresidential Electability, Constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Patterson v. WalgreensThis week Trey is joined by Ken. The two start the show by discussing what it means for a presidential candidate to be electable. Given the focus on Sanders post Nevada the pair focus specifically on how him in a general election against President Trump. Trey and Ken explore what historically drives candidates to be viable outside of the horse race narrative. Trey's interest in the Democratic primary makes him particularly concerned for a candidate that can beat Trump. He believes that voters will more generally punish Sanders for his socialist policies, but that the recent market correction will...
2020-02-2959 min
The Politics GuysTrump’s Pardons, Mike Bloomberg, What to Look for in a Presidential CandidateThis week, Mike and Kristin first take on the issue of pardoning. They discuss Trump’s most recent 11 pardons and commutations. Mike’s concern is rooted in who President Trump has pardoned - largely his political friends and allies. Kristin brings up historical pardoning to these ends, as well as the First Step Act in relation to Mike’s point that Trump could be doing much more for overlooked nonviolent offenders. On a broad scale, they also discuss the Founding Fathers’ original intentions when creating the power of pardoning and whether this deserves a second look, as we seem to have...
2020-02-2259 min
The Politics GuysJustice Department Independence, NH Primary, Bernie and a Democratic Socialist PresidentAfter a big announcement about some significant changes to the podcast, Mike and Jay turn to a discussion of the independence and integrity of the Justice Department and its leader, Attorney General William Barr. Mike attempts to understand Barr based on his views of executive authority, which Mike believes are wrongheaded. Jay, on the other hand, thinks that Barr is absolutely right about sweeping executive authority. One thing Mike and Jay agree on is that President Trump’s tweets about ongoing Justice Department cases make it very difficult for Barr to convince people that the department is acting with in...
2020-02-151h 05
The Politics GuysAllan Lichtman on Repeal The Second AmendmentSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | PocketCasts | Overcast | Stitcher | RSS Trey talks with Allan Lichtman, a Distinguished Professor of History at American University and author of many books including on impeaching Trump and on the keys to the White House. In this episode they discuss Allan's latest book Repeal the Second Amendment: The Case for a Safer America Topics Trey and Allan Discuss include: What compelled him to write such a provocative book (and provocative title) What the framers actually meant by the second amendment The likelihood of truly repealing the second amendment The usefulness of repeal...
2020-02-1246 min
The Politics GuysImpeachment, Iowa Apps, Barr’s Memo, SOTUThis week Trey and Ken are joined by Mike and the three begin the show by discussing the final impeachment vote. Ken notes the historic nature of Romney as the first to ever cross party lines for an impeachment vote. Trey argues that Romney is the consistent conservative and both the Republicans and Democratic parties have shifted around him. Mike and Ken counter that Republicans are the party that has far more profoundly shifted. Ken is not surprised, but disappointed, that President Trump was not found guilty. Mike, although he believes President Trump to be guilty, does not agree...
2020-02-081h 02
The Politics GuysTrump's Acquittal, FISA, Progressive Prospects, Political Principles, Christians for Trump, News SourcesIn this episode, Mike & Kristin address listener questions on: the ramifications of President Trump's acquittal in the Senate how those who abused the FISA warrant process should be held to account prospects and strategies for progressives our dominant political principles why many evangelical Christians are enthusiastic Trump supporters what our main political news sources are, and why we've chosen them Today’s Sponsors Empower. For more info about Empower, visit: empower.me/politicsguys SaneBox. Email management for any inbox. For a free two-week trial and a $25 credit, go to sanebox.com/politicsguys. Be...
2020-02-0549 min
The Politics GuysAn Impeachment Trial Without Witnesses, Iowa Caucuses, The ‘Stop Bernie’ MovementThis week, Mike and Kristin cover the latest news regarding the impeachment trial. In an effort to cover different items and fuel different discussions than those all over mainstream news , they both lay out their personal highlights of the week. Mike brings up Alan Dershowitz’s odd defense of the President and the backlash he faced, while Kristin discusses some of the procedural shortcomings of Democratic lawmakers. They agree that the President will likely be acquitted on Wednesday, on the true nature of “impeachment” as laid out by the Founding Fathers, and that it’s apparent that both sides seem to...
2020-02-0159 min
The Politics GuysPurity, Socialism, Supporting the Troops, Polarization, Education, Parties, Bernie v Trump, the JudiciaryIn this episode, Mike & Jay respond to listener comments on: political purity tests fear of socialism supporting the troops fixing polarization grading public education problems with political parties Bernie debating Trump the power of the judiciary Today’s SponsorsEmpower. For more info about Empower, visit: empower.me/politicsguys SaneBox. Email management for any inbox. For a free two-week trial and a $25 credit, go to sanebox.com/politicsguys. Be part of the discussion on the Politics Guys ‘BipartisanPolitics’ community on Reddit. Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re inter...
2020-01-2949 min
The Politics GuysTrump’s Trial, Religious Funding, Faithless ElectorsThis week’s show opens with Mike & Jay discussing the Senate trial of President Trump. They both agree that the president did something, but while Mike thinks that something is criminal activity worthy of impeachment and removal, Jay doesn’t believe it rises to that level. Along the way, Mike suggests that President Trump is like a monkey in a museum and Mitch McConnell is the Senate’s Bill Belichick. Next, the Guys look at Montana v Espinoza, a case the Supreme Court heard this week involving an indirect state subsidy to religious schools. They agree that Montan...
2020-01-2558 min
The Politics GuysEconomist Bryan Caplan on Open BordersMike talks with Bryan Caplan, a Professor of Economics at George Mason University and a blogger for EconLog. Professor Caplan is the author of multiple books, including two he and I have previously discussed on the show - The Myth of the Rational Voter, and The Case Against Education. On this episode, they discussing Bryan’s latest book, Open Borders: The Science and Ethics of Immigration. Topics Mike & Bryan discuss include: ‘a world of global apartheid’ immigration and economic inequality the moral presumption in favor of immigration why Nobel Laureate Milton Freedom was wrong about immigration how op...
2020-01-221h 12
The Politics GuysSenate Trial, Lev Parnas, USMCA, Warren v Sanders, iPhone HackingThis week Trey and Ken start by tackling the weeks biggest issue: the Senate trial of President Donald Trump. The biggest focus for the hosts is the ongoing question concerning witnesses. Ken is reluctant to make a prediction, but Trey suggests there will be witnesses. This leads the pair to Lev Parnas and the peculiar nature of Trump witnesses. It also leads to speculation on Ken's part about the differences between a political trial and a civil trial. Specifically how in a political trial witnesses do not have to necessarily be relevant. After this Trey...
2020-01-1851 min
The Politics GuysRichard Robb on Choice in Economics, Politics, and LifeMike talks with Richard Robb, a professor of professional practice in international and public affairs at Columbia University and CEO of the investment firm Christofferson, Robb & Company, which he co-founded in 2001. They discuss his recent book Willful: How We Choose What We Do. After the interview, Kristin joins Mike for a conservative perspective. Topics Richard and Mike cover include: the rational choice paradigm behavioral economics purposeful, ‘for itself’ action how and why we pick beliefs that appeal to us the four-step process of belief formulation Pareto efficiency and public policy if policymakers have enough skin...
2020-01-151h 03
Movies on the SideAngel Has Fallen (2019)Any movie that gets 93% on Rotten Tomatoes from the audience has to be pretty good right? RIGHT? I mean this movie has Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, AND more practical explosions than a Michael Bay joint! Well, maybe not that many. Anyway, Nate and Stephen disagree on this one, but come together for their Top 5 sodas in the end. Angel Has Fallen (2019) on IMDbMOTS Shirts and HoodiesSupport MOTS on PatreonSocial Links:MOTS InstagramMOTS TwitterMOTS FacebookMOTS on PatreonSuggest a Bad Movie!Support the showWatch our episodes on YouTube!
2020-01-121h 07
The Politics GuysIran Confrontation, Senate Impeachment Trial, Three Years of TrumpThis week, Mike and Kristin take on the confrontation between the U.S. and Iran, discuss what our clear policy goals should be regarding Iran, and whether those goals are feasible. Both agree that heading into a full-fledged war is a terrible idea, but while Mike argues that Trump’s pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal was disastrous, Kristin brings up that nothing before or since Trump has worked to create a stable Iran without nuclear capability and that the process needs to be rethought entirely. Mike also unpacks the House vote to force the President to come to...
2020-01-1158 min
The Politics GuysBinyamin Appelbaum on The Economists' HourMike talks with Binyamin Appelbaum, who writes about economics and business for the editorial page of the New York Times. From 2010 - 2019 he was a Washington correspondent for the Times, covering economic policy in the aftermath of the 2008 crisis. They discuss his recently released book: The Economists' Hour. After the interview, Jay joins Mike to provide a conservative perspective. Topics Mike & Binyamin discuss include: why markets are wonderful Keynesianism, monetarism, and supply side economics the massive influence of Milton Friedman fine-tuning the economic machine balancing unemployment and inflation the shifting value of a human...
2020-01-081h 17
The Politics GuysMiddle East Tensions, Democratic Race, Hopes & Predictions for 2020Mike & Jay open the show with a discussion of the escalating tensions between Iran, Iraq, and the United States in the aftermath of the U.S. killing of Iranian Quds Force commander Quasem Soleimani. Jay thinks that the Trump administration may have made the right move, but Mike is concerned that the blowback could be worse than any benefits from Soleimani’s death. Next is a look at the Democratic presidential race, including Julian Castro’s exit from the race, whether Iowa and New Hampshire should be the first two contests, and the nearly $200 million that Michael Bloo...
2020-01-041h 02
Future HindsightBipartisan Civil Discourse: Michael BaranowskiAgreeing on the basic fundamentals The need for positive, bipartisan discourse is acute. In today's politically charged environment, it's important to disagree in a constructive and civil way. The first step in good-faith dialogue is to start by finding fundamental policies or values you both agree on and build on them. In fact, most Americans hold the same ideals, but value them differently. Mike and his conservative co-host Jay both value justice and freedom, though to different degrees. Since they both agree justice and freedom are important, fair and rational debate becomes much easier. Equally important are...
2020-01-0431 min
The Politics GuysTrump Impeached, IG Report Aftermath, 2020 Budget, USMCAPresident Trump has been impeached but the odds are strongly against him being removed from office. Mike & Jay open the show talking about the impeachment vote, what happens next, and the potential electoral consequences. After that, they discuss the aftermath of Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz’s findings on the FBI’s conduct of the ‘Crossfire Hurricane’ investigation, including Horowitz’s Senate testimony and the FISA court ordering the FBI to clean up its act. Then it’s a look at the $1.4 trillion 2020 budget, which has something for everyone but which neither Mike nor Jay are enti...
2019-12-2153 min
The Politics GuysThe Politics Guys and Future HindsightMike talks with Mila Atmos, host of the Future Hindsight podcast. They discuss rights and responsibilities in a democracy, cynicism, adopting a cause, the 2020 Democratic presidential field, Joe Biden as the DNC’s chosen candidate, the impeachment of President Trump, how to make a difference, why Mila is hopeful, and lots more. After the interview, Trey joins Mike to provide a conservative perspective. Update: Mila checked in after the episode dropped, and confessed to also being a Cory Booker fan. When she was in Iowa in November, a voter asked her who he should caucus for, and sh...
2019-12-1854 min
The Politics GuysIG Report, Articles of Impeachment, USMCA, Executive Orders on Jewish Identity, UK ElectionsThis week Trey is joined by Ken and they begin the show by exploring the Justice Department's inspector general, Michael Horowitz's, report into the potentiality of a political bias by the FBI. Next the pair turn to the House Judiciary Committee's party-line vote to move forward two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the full house floor. Trey and Ken then discuss the United States-Mexico-Canada-Agreement (USMCA) which may replace NAFTA -- both its provisions and the likelihood of passage. After that the pair turns to President Trump's recent executive order attempting to crack down on discrimination against...
2019-12-1457 min
The Politics GuysThe Politics Guys & Democracy Works on Trump, Impeachment and the Future of DemocracyMike talks with Chris Beem and Michael Berkman from Penn State's McCourtney Institute for Democracy about their Democracy Works podcast and a whole bunch of other things including: the fact that two of our last four, and three of our last nine presidents have gone through impeachment the ‘best case’ outcome from this impeachment process the potential fallout from straight party line impeachment voting if Donald Trump is a unique case or a portent of presidents to come strengthening our political institutions whether we’re optimistic or pessimistic about the future of liberal democracy in the United States and lo...
2019-11-2754 min
The Politics GuysStrategic Voting, Hunter Biden, ‘President Pelosi’, Warren’s RootsIn this episode, Mike and Jay respond to listener questions on the following topics: Social Security strategic voting in primary elections Hunter Biden, Michael Cohen, and ‘soft corruption’ expertise in cabinet positions Donald Trump and fiscal conservatives Jay’s nightmare scenario - ‘President Pelosi’ bipartisan blame for the financial crisis the value of Elizabeth Warren’s conservative past a depressing present and hope for the future Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re interested in supporting the show, go to patreon.com/politicsguys or politicsguys.com/support.Support this podcast at — https://r...
2019-11-2045 min
The Politics GuysImpeachment, Election Results, and the State of the Democratic FieldHaving heard from our listeners, this week we have a special three-person edition of The Politics Guys with Will Miller, Michael Baranowski, and Jay Carson. The Guys start off the show with a lengthy discussion around current developments in the impeachment inquiry into President Trump. Much of the discussion focuses on the application of process and differences between an investigation and an impeachment inquiry. Mike posits that he believes what Trump has been accused of merits an impeachment inquiry and will merit removal from office if proven true beyond a reasonable doubt. Will and Jay both agree—in theory—that...
2019-11-091h 05
Movies on the SideX-Men Trilogy Part 2 (2011-2016)Confucius once said, you can never have too many X-Men movies, especially when they star Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy. Amirite? Well in preparation for the new Dark Phoenix movie this summer, we decided to review a second crop of X-Men movies!Plus you’ll hear about Nate’s new business idea, the difference between an alicorn and a unicorn, AND the anatomy of a joke.X-Men: First Class (2011)X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)Social Links:MOTS InstagramMOTS TwitterMOTS FacebookMOTS on PatreonSuggest a Bad Movie!Support the...
2019-06-0231 min
The Politics GuysHouse vs Trump on Emergency, Trump Walks on Kim, Medicare for All, Big Pharma, Cohen TestimonyMike and Jay start the show with a discussion of what’s next now that the House has voted to rescind President Trump’s national emergency declaration. They agree that there won’t be the votes to override the inevitable presidential veto, but given the various constitutional uncertainties, a lot has to go right (or wrong, depending on your view) before any wall-building happens. Next is a look at the summit between President Trump and North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un. Mike and Jay both believe that Trump was right to walk away without a deal, though Mike d...
2019-03-021h 10
The Politics GuysNews Recommendations, Privacy Legislation, Experience as a Handicap, Demographic Representation, Cohen’s Ethics, Politics Guys BingoIn this listener comment show, Mike & Jay discuss: their recommendations for daily news updates pros and cons of privacy legislation if experience hurts presidential candidates basing representation on demographics, not geography Michael Cohen and legal ethics a ‘Politics Guys Bingo’ game If you haven’t take the short (two-question) Politics Guys Listener Survey, please do. It will really help us out! Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible. If you’re interested in supporting the show, go to patreon.com/politicsguysSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-politics-guys/donationsAdverti...
2019-02-0640 min
The Politics GuysChief of Staff, Cohen Sentencing, A Not Nice Photo Op, Huawei ArrestTrey is joined this week by Athena King. The two begin by looking at the ongoing developments in the roll of chief of staff. Several individuals, including this week Chris Christie, have turned down the position. Announced just before the show, Mick Mulvaney is named new chief of staff. Trey talks about the long-standing difficulty of the role. Both hosts question what Mulvaney hopes to gain and what we have learned about the White House through the chief of staff turnover. Next Trey and Athena turn to Michael Cohen’s sentencing and the aftermath. The hosts explore Co...
2018-12-1544 min
The Politics GuysGeorge H.W. Bush, Cohen Plea, Mississippi Senate Runoff, GM Layoffs, Tear Gassing ChildrenOn this week’s show, Will and Mike begin by speaking about the legacy of President George H. W. Bush and their memories of his career. The first story discussed from the week is the guilty plea entered by Michael Cohen in federal court. Will and Mike use the plea to discuss the status of the Mueller investigation and the impact Cohen’s plea could have on Trump. Both agree that impeachment is likely off the table as neither expect a smoking gun to emerge. But they disagree on how helpful the investigation may be to the Democrats in 2020.
2018-12-0154 min
Thales’ WellOn US Politics, Edmund Burke and Trump with Michael BaranowskiWith the upcoming US elections I thought it would be a good time to see what a political philosopher has to say about it all. I am joined by Michael Baranowski who is a political scientist from Northern Kentucky University. We talked about Mike’s intellectual origins, the political philospher Edmund Burke, the legacy of John McCain, the possibility of socialism in America, and of course President Donald Trump, as well as the forthcoming elections. You can find out more about Mike here. Mike is one of the hosts of the very brilliant podcast The Politics Guys.For anyone with...
2018-10-191h 00
The Politics GuysManafort & Cohen, Kavanaugh Confirmation, Hunter Indictment, EPA & ‘Affordable Clean Energy’Mike and Jay open the show with a discussion of President Trump’s very rough week. First was the conviction of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort on eight counts of bank and tax fraud, followed by a plea deal between federal prosecutors and former Trump attorney Michael Cohen. The Guys discuss both the legal and political ramifications, as well as President Trump’s seeming inability to surround himself with ‘the best people’. Next is a look at Senate Democrat arguments for delaying the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court. One argument is that the Michael...
2018-08-2550 min
The Politics GuysFarm Subsides, US and Iran Spat, The Michael Cohen Tape, and Facebook’s Record DeclineThis week the show is produced for the first time ever in Oklahoma City. Trey, now officially part of Oklahoma Christian University, is joined by Ken who is preparing to move to Denver. The first topic is Trump’s trade policy. The Trey and Ken to differing degrees agree that subsides to farmers is simply a policy mistake fixing the earlier policy mistake of enacting tariffs. While Ken has some boundaries around the idea of free trade, both think that the current tariffs policies are reminiscent of the import substitution industrialization models of the 1980s and 1990s....
2018-07-2840 min
The Politics Guys: Subscriber Bonus ShowsPolitics Guys Bonus Show 006Trey and Ken start the bonus episode by finishing their conversation on free trade. Ken finishes his thoughts on how trade with poorer countries it might actually depress wages over the long haul. Trey and Ken also propose a thought experiment for considering the digital economy as compared to manufacturing.
Then The Guys turn their attention to San Francisco's new female African American mayor and ask what might be the causes and long term impact of a spike in women running for office. This leads to some longer term thoughts concerning the general election.
Finally Ken and Trey discover that...
2018-06-1620 min
The Politics Guys: Subscriber Bonus ShowsPolitics Guys Bonus Show 001Politics Guys Bonus Show 001 by Michael Baranowski
2018-05-1215 min
The Politics GuysPG149: Iran Nuclear Deal, North Korea Summit, Torture & the CIA Nomination, 2018 Primaries, Michael Cohen's ShenanigansThis week's show opens with a look at the Iran nuclear deal that President Trump pulled the U.S. out of. Both Mike and Jay agree that it was an imperfect deal, but Mike feels we should have stayed in and worked to improve it. Jay feels that the deal was far more imperfect than Mike does, but he agrees that the president's propensity for walking away from international agreements isn't the best way to handle things. The Guys next turn to the historic summit meeting between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jung Un, which President Trump announced...
2018-05-121h 04
The Politics GuysPG148: Mueller's Questions for Trump, Pornstar Payoffs, Trump's Trade Wars, Sprint T-Mobile Merger, States Sue EPAThe show starts off with Mike and Jay discussing the list of questions Special Counsel Robert Mueller has for President Trump, and whether or not the president will end up answering them. They both agree that it would be extremely unwise for Trump to sit down for an extended interview, even if that means 'taking the 5th', which President Trump has previously (and erroneously) suggested only guilty people need to do. As a legal matter, even if Mueller concludes that President Trump obstructed justice, the only remedy is impeachment and removal by Congress, something that would require extremely compelling evidence...
2018-05-0554 min
The Politics GuysPG145: US Strike on Syria, Ryan Out, Zuckerberg Testifies, Cohen Raid, IG McCabe ReportMike and Jay discuss the US-led missile strike on Syrian chemical weapons infrastructure, Paul Ryan's resignation, Mark Zuckerberg's testimony before Congress, the FBI raid on Michael Cohen's office, and the Department of Justice's Inspector General report on Andrew McCabe. They debate the legitimacy of these events and their implications for American politics. While they have different perspectives, they both agree that these events are cause for concern. **Listener support helps make The Politics Guys possible**. If you’re interested in supporting the show, go to [politicsguys.com/support](http://www.politicsguys.com/support). Lear...
2018-04-141h 02
The Politics GuysPG132: Korea Talks, Iran Protests, DOJ on Marijuana, Wolff’s Book and Offshore DrillingIn our first show of 2018 Mike and Trey look at what they thought would be a quiet week in the news that quickly exploded. First they look at the unexpected offer by Kim Jong Un to talks between North and South Korea. Then the hosts turn their attention to the emergence of protests in Iran and look at the similarities and differences between the 2009 and 2018 protests. After this weeks foreign policy questions are finished Trey and Mike discuss domestic policy beginning with Session’s DOJ memo on marijuana. They briefly discuss the more substantive outcomes of Michael Wolff’s upcoming book...
2018-01-0648 min
The Politics GuysPG130: Alabama Elections, Net Neutrality Officially Ends, The GOP Tax Cut (again), Sexual Allegations and MuellerThis week Trey rejoins Michael after finishing the fall semester at Daytona State College. The first topic of conversation is the Alabama special Senate election. Trey and Michael discuss the implications of a Jones win, a Moore loss, and what the exit polling data tell us about the future. They then turn to Net Neutrality briefly before moving to the biggest week’s news: the GOP tax bill. With the bill out of conference committee Trey and Michael discuss the modified plan. Next comes a discussion of the renewed sexual allegations against President Donald Trump before ending on the potential Mu...
2017-12-1658 min
The Politics GuysPG128: Senate Tax Bill, Flynn Makes a Deal, Who's Running the CFPB?This week, Mike and Jay start off with a look at the Senate tax bill, which passed by a vote of 51-49, with 'no' votes from every Democrat and one Republican (Tennessee's Bob Corker). Jay is a lot more optimistic about the economic growth potential of the cuts than Mike is, though they both agree that corporate tax reform is necessary. They also agree that there will be a House-Senate compromise leading to a bill for President Trump to sign. In the end, Mike fears that the resulting law will significantly increase the national debt as well as make a...
2017-12-031h 04
The Politics GuysLawrence Lessig on Campaign Finance ReformLawrence Lessig on Campaign Finance Reform Mike talks with Lawrence Lessig, the Roy L. Furman Professor of Law and Leadership at Harvard Law School. Prior to his time at Harvard, Professor Lessig clerked for not one, but two of Mike's intellectual heroes, Judge Richard Posner and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Professor Lessig is the author of numerous books on law, commerce, culture, and ideas. His latest, Republic, Lost, Version 2.0, is a revised and expanded version of Republic, Lost, which Mike says is the best introduction to, and analysis of, not only campaign finance, but the fundamental incentives that drive...
2017-07-2638 min
The Politics GuysKenneth Rogoff on Eight Centuries of Financial Folly & The Curse of CashMike talks with Dr. Kenneth Rogoff, Professor of Economics and Thomas D. Cabot Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University. From 2001–2003, Dr. Rogoff was Chief Economist at the International Monetary Fund. He's a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, serves on the Economic Advisory Panel of the New York Federal Reserve, and is a member of the National Academy of Sciences as well as the American Academy of Arts & Sciences. Dr. Rogoff's books include 'Foundations of International Macroeconomics', the standard graduate text in the field, 'This Time Is Different: Eight Centuries of Financial Folly', and, most recently, 'The Cu...
2017-07-1937 min
The Politics GuysPG88: CPAC, LGBTQ Rights, Kudos to POTUS, Mexico, Town HallsThis week's episode starts with a look at the annual meeting of the Conservative Political Action Conference, headlined by President Trump himself. Mike and Jay take a look at the president's stridently anti-media rhetoric as well as discuss someone who wasn't there: conservative provocateur and former Breitbart senior editor Milo Yiannopoulos, who was disinvited after video surfaced suggesting that Yiannopoulos wasn't entirely against pedophilia in some circumstances. After that, the Guys discuss the recent Justice Department rollback of the Obama rule concerning the right of transgender students to use the bathroom corresponding to their gender identity. Mike sees it as...
2017-02-2658 min
The Politics GuysPG87: Chaos Cabinet, 'Unhinged' Press Conferences, Russia Connections?This week, Mike and Jay begin with a look at the resignation of National Security Advisor Michael Flynn and what it tells us about the Trump administration's national security savvy. Next, they discuss President Trump's press conference, which many on the left saw as 'unhinged' while many on the right believed it to be a masterful performance that the mainstream media simply didn't get. Next is the week in Senate confirmations, featuring the withdrawal of Andrew Puzder as Labor Secretary and the confirmation of Scott Pruitt at the EPA. Finally, the Guys look at new revelations and current investigations into...
2017-02-1955 min