Newt talks with Governor Greg Abbott of Texas about the special session to vote on redistricting the state. On Tuesday, the state's top three elected officials, Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows said the Legislature will adjourn its current overtime session this Friday, and the Governor will immediately call another special session. The ongoing political standoff continues, with Democrat lawmakers who have left the state refusing to return to prevent the passage of a new congressional map favoring Republicans. Abbott vows to continue calling special sessions until Democrats return, emphasizing the need for a quorum to conduct legislative business. He highlights the penalties Democrats face for their absence and criticizes their actions as contrary to Texas values. Abbott also addresses the broader political implications, including the impact on future elections and the importance of maintaining Republican control in Congress to support President Trump's agenda.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Senator Tim Scott about his new book, “One Nation Always Under God: Profiles in Christian Courage,” which highlights the influence of Christian values on America's foundational institutions and the courage of historical figures who persevered through faith. Their conversation touches on Scott's personal journey from poverty to becoming a United States Senator, emphasizing the power of dreams, imagination, and hard work. Scott shares insights on the importance of family, faith, and the American spirit, while also addressing contemporary issues such as federal spending and economic policies. They conclude by discussing Scott's recent marriage and the role of humility in public service.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with David Bahnsen, founder and chief investment officer of The Bahnsen Group, about the importance of balancing the federal budget and addressing the national debt, which is nearly $37 trillion. He reflects on his past success in balancing the budget as Speaker of the House in the 1990s and emphasizes the need for fiscal responsibility. Bahnsen shares his nuanced views on the Federal Reserve's role in setting interest rates, arguing against the need for a Central Bank to set the price of money. Bahnsen critiques the current monetary policy and the impact of tariffs on the economy, expressing concerns about the effects on small businesses and advocating for pro-growth policies. Their conversation also touches on the challenges of entitlement reform, the impact of foreign investment, and the need for effective communication in political discourse. Bahnsen's Dividend Café newsletter offers insights into market trends and economic perspectives, aiming to provide objective advice for investors.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Andrew Levin, Professor of Economics at Dartmouth College, about his recent policy brief, “The Federal Reserve Should Welcome the Appointment of an Independent Inspector General.” They discuss the controversial $3 billion dollar renovation project at the Federal Reserve Building, highlighting the ballooning costs and luxurious upgrades such as glass atriums and rooftop gardens. Levin argues for increased accountability, suggesting the appointment of an independent Inspector General and greater Congressional oversight. He emphasizes the need for transparency and reform within the Federal Reserve, comparing its practices to other central banks and federal agencies. They also discuss the Fed's monetary policy, its independence, and the lack of dissent among its board members, calling for a shift in culture and leadership. Levin proposes practical reforms, including integrating the Fed's budget into the federal budget process and appointing a presidentially confirmed Inspector General to ensure accountability and transparency.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dr. Mark Skousen, “America’s Economist” about his new book, “The Greatest American: Benjamin Franklin, The World’s Most Versatile Genius.” Their conversation explores Franklin's profound impact on American politics and daily life, highlighting his diverse roles as an inventor, scientist and diplomat. Skousen, who is a direct descendant of Franklin, shares insights into Franklin's unfinished autobiography, which he completed using Franklin's letters and papers. They also discuss Franklin's practical approach to science, his mastery of diplomacy, and his personal philosophies, including his belief in the importance of being useful and educated. Dr. Skousen also touches on Franklin's complex relationships with women, his views on religion, and his legacy as a versatile genius. Skousen provides a comprehensive look at why Franklin is considered one of the greatest Americans, emphasizing his ability to connect with people from all walks of life and his enduring influence on modern society.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Margaret Roberts about her new book, “Blowback: The Untold Story of the FBI and the Oklahoma City Bombing.” Roberts who is the former news director of America's Most Wanted, reexamines the Oklahoma City bombing, challenging the lone wolf terrorism narrative with evidence suggesting a neo-Nazi plot and FBI involvement. Roberts reveals her investigative journey, including exclusive interviews with co-conspirator Terry Nichols, who alleges Timothy McVeigh was an undercover federal operative. Her book explores the FBI’s PATCON program, suggesting the bombing was a sting operation gone wrong. Roberts calls for transparency and the release of FBI documents to uncover the truth.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Neil Chilson, current head of AI Policy at the Abundance Institute, about President Trump’s “Winning the Race: America’s AI Action Plan,” which aims to accelerate AI innovation, build American AI infrastructure, and lead in international AI diplomacy and security. Chilson highlights the importance of AI for U.S. global dominance, emphasizing its potential in various sectors like healthcare and defense. Their conversation also touches on the strategic significance of Taiwan in chip production and the challenges of AI regulation, particularly in Europe. The Abundance Institute focuses on emerging technologies, advocating for a culture that embraces innovation and a regulatory environment that enables it. They conclude with optimism about AI's role in medicine and the potential for a future with greater technological advancements.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with veteran political reporter Salena Zito about her new book, “Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland.” Their discussion centers around the assassination attempt on Donald J. Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13th, 2024. Zito, who was present at the event, shares her firsthand experience and insights into the incident, the subsequent reactions, and the profound impact on Trump and the American electorate. Their conversation explores themes of place, faith, and resilience, highlighting Zito's unique perspective on middle America's relationship with Trump. Her book, which has reached the New York Times Bestseller list, delves into the untold stories of the heartland and Trump's journey back into the electorate's favor. They also discuss the challenges faced by the Secret Service during the event and the broader implications for journalism and political coverage.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.