Hidden taxes in the IL budget with IL Policy Institute director of fiscal and economic analysis Bryce Hill

1776 to 2026 Then and Now with Spokesperson for the Guardians of Liberty SE Missouri Linda Ruetzel

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, the theme "1776 to 2026: Then and Now" offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation's founding principles and how they apply in today's society. Linda Ruetzel, spokesperson for Guardians of Liberty Southeast Missouri, joins us to discuss the vision of the Founding Fathers, the enduring importance of constitutional freedoms, and the challenges facing liberty in the modern era. She'll also share details about an upcoming community event featuring nationally recognized speakers focused on citizenship, constitutional government, and preserving the freedoms secured at America's founding as the nation marks this historic milestone.

ACLU Foundation and “Stop the Ban” for violating Missouri’s Foreign Influence in Ballot Measures Act with Executive Director at mericans for Public Trust Caitlin Sutherland

A legal battle is brewing in Missouri over ballot measure transparency and foreign influence. Americans for Public Trust has filed a complaint alleging that the ACLU Foundation and the coalition "Stop the Ban" violated Missouri’s Foreign Influence in Ballot Measures Act, raising questions about whether foreign-sourced funds were improperly used to support ballot initiative efforts in the state. Joining us to discuss the allegations, the legal framework behind Missouri’s law, and what this case could mean for future ballot measure campaigns is Caitlin Sutherland, Executive Director of Americans for Public Trust.

Hidden taxes in the IL budget with IL Policy Institute director of fiscal and economic analysis Bryce Hill

For our discussion on hidden taxes in the Illinois budget, we're joined by Bryce Hill, Director of Fiscal and Economic Analysis at the Illinois Policy Institute. Hill argues that while lawmakers often pledge not to raise broad-based taxes, budget proposals can still increase the financial burden on residents through higher fees, targeted tax hikes, fund transfers, and other revenue measures that may receive less public attention. Recent budget analyses have highlighted hundreds of millions of dollars in proposed tax and fee increases, along with fund sweeps and other fiscal maneuvers used to support record levels of state spending. Hill will explain where these hidden costs appear in the budget, how they affect Illinois families and businesses, and what taxpayers should watch for as lawmakers debate the state's fiscal future.

Former CIA Official Arrested After Feds Find $40M in Gold Bars with CEO and Founder of InVest USA Michael Letts

A shocking federal investigation has led to the arrest of a former CIA official after authorities reportedly discovered nearly $40 million worth of gold bars and other assets, raising serious questions about corruption, accountability, and national security. Joining us to discuss the case, its broader implications, and what it says about public trust in government institutions is Michael Letts, CEO and Founder of InVest USA. He’ll break down the details of the investigation, the concerns surrounding alleged abuses of power, and why transparency remains critical in maintaining confidence in those entrusted with protecting the nation.

USMCA Joint Review and the Future of North American Trade with Head of the National Food and Commerce Union Alejandro Martinez Araiza

As North America prepares for the upcoming joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), questions are growing about the future of regional trade, supply chains, labor standards, and economic competitiveness. Alejandro Martinez Araiza, Head of the National Food and Commerce Union, joins us to discuss what workers and businesses can expect from the review process, how trade policies are affecting industries across the continent, and what changes may be needed to strengthen economic cooperation between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. We'll examine the challenges and opportunities facing North American trade and what the next chapter of the USMCA could mean for workers, consumers, and economic growth throughout the region.