EP 397: Power Balls

Ep. 397 In Episode 397, Ken and Dave discuss MTG on the outs, property tax elimination, Savannah getting smacked down, pennies for your thoughts, nudes on an airplane, and creeps on a list.

DC Trip and Government Events

• Dave traveled to Washington D.C. during the government shutdown, observing that the city and nightlife were notably quiet.
• He received a personalized tour of the Capitol, which was arranged by the office of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Green.
• Museum visits included the American History Museum (featuring Archie Bunker's chair and Abraham Lincoln's hat) and the International Spy Museum (displaying concealable spy gear, such as a radio hidden in a fake scrotum and lockpick sets).
• The government shutdown concluded, but the current Continuing Resolution (CR) expires around January 30th, leading to concerns about another looming shutdown shortly after the holidays.

National Politics and Infighting

• Donald Trump used new nicknames for Marjorie Taylor Green, including "Marjorie Taylor Brown" and "Marjorie Trader Green," labeling her a RINO (Republican In Name Only).
• The hosts praised the constituent services provided by Marjorie Taylor Green's office, noting the staff is super nice and very young.
• Michael Knowles spoke at Belmont Abbey College on the theme of the civil war within the Republican party, arguing that infighting is excessive despite Republicans controlling all three branches of government, partly fueled by podcasters seeking clicks.
• It was argued that Trump's petty attacks against figures like Green and Thomas Massie harm the independent vote.

Georgia Local Issues

• Property Taxes: Discussion centered on the dangers of eliminating property taxes in Georgia, which would require rural counties to rely on state funding and beg the capital for money.
• The concept of paying property taxes as a one-time charge, similar to the vehicle ad valorem tax, was mentioned.
• Savannah Gun Law: A local judge ruled Savannah's ordinance—which mandated securing firearms in vehicles and carried potential penalties up to a $1,000 fine or 30 days in jail—as unconstitutional and contrary to state code.
• A representative from the hosts' area, Martin, was named chairman of the House Committee on Code Revision.
• The Mega Millions winner in Newnan, GA, prompted jokes that they can now afford their property taxes.

Cultural Topics and Oddities

• Penny Discontinuation: The US Treasurer announced that the penny will no longer be minted, a move expected to save $56 million annually. The concern was raised that this is the first step in moving away from physical currency.
• Emigration Poll: A poll showed that 40% of young women (aged 15-44) expressed a desire to leave the US, which the hosts attributed to political romanticism rather than a genuine wish to give up American comforts and amenities.
• Congressional Conduct: Democrat Congressman Brad Sherman (CA) was observed looking at racy photos on a flight and blamed the incident on his iPad's algorithm.
• Epstein Files: Trump ordered the Justice Department and FBI to investigate Jeffrey Epstein's relationships with Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, and other former officials. The hosts urged a full release of non-pornographic information, expecting the list to expose CEOs and captains of industry.
• Vandalism: Timothy Meyers Pool was arrested for vandalizing a Veterans Day exhibit at a Texas church after leaving his driver's license at the scene.

Sports

• Georgia achieved a victory over Texas.
• Texas A&M secured a dramatic comeback win against South Carolina (31-30), after trailing 30-3.