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Drone Strikes, CEO Slides, and Football Pride
COLD OPEN:
[Upbeat, over-the-top theme music plays]
NOAH STEWART (striding into spotlight):
Tonight on The Daily Roast:
CEOs be dumping stock like it’s 2008.
Republicans re-invent football but forget workers’ rights.
The economy says “we’re fine” with the enthusiasm of a hostage note.
And a foreign surveillance drone crashes in Arizona. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t Amazon Prime Air.I’m Noah Stewart, your host, your roastmaster, and the last man on Earth who still uses the word “nefarious” correctly.
MONOLOGUE
Let’s start with PixelPulse Studios, where CEO Daniel Kim has been accused of insider trading, running a sweatshop disguised as a dev studio, and worst of all—dropping a statement called “Let Me Finish What We Started.”
Dude, that’s not a defense. That’s what Thanos said.
PixelPulse’s legal team literally told him, “Hey, maybe don’t sell $9.7 million in stock the day after the company was hit with crunch culture allegations.”
And Daniel Kim said, “Cool, cool… counterpoint: I did it anyway.”It’s now under investigation by the Securities Oversight Bureau, or “SOB,” which is both a government agency and also what Kim will be called in the company group chat tomorrow.
And while Kim fights off calls for resignation, there’s already talk of replacing him with Maya Renner. Which, to be honest, might be the only kind of upgrade Wall Street actually cheers for that doesn’t involve layoffs or crypto.
SEGMENT 1 – “MILK, MONEY, AND MAYHEM: THE FOOTBALL EXPANSION EDITION”
Let’s talk about the Dynamic Football League, or DFL—because nothing says “innovative” like another billionaire-backed sports league.
The four founding teams are:
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San Antonio, led by pop star Kylie Fitzgerald, because apparently the only thing this country respects more than quarterbacks is TikTok stardom.
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Detroit, being spearheaded by… Governor Ashford. Because nothing screams “revival” like government-funded turf and Ford-themed helmets.
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Cincinnati, aka the Ohio-Kentucky bromance team. Their strategy? Combine boring and weird into one glorious 8–9 wildcard run.
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Oklahoma City, led by country rock legend Mud Abercrombie. Because if there’s one thing we need more of, it’s teams owned by men named Mud.
This is not a sports league. It’s a reboot of The Hunger Games but for red states.
SEGMENT 2 – “AFFIRMATIVE REDO”
Meanwhile in Kentucky, Governor Tony Raines just signed the Fair Admissions and Education Act, banning race-based affirmative action in public colleges. Because nothing says fairness like erasing the context of centuries of unfairness.
Tony Raines says students should succeed based on “merit.” Great—until you remember he’s the same guy pushing a football team managed by his cousin. Or is it his wife? I get confused in Kentucky.
Also, this same bill includes standardized testing, GPA weighting, and extracurriculars… so, we’re still ranking teenagers like they’re contestants on The Bachelor, but with more algebra.
SEGMENT 3 – “DRONES & DISASTERS”
Let’s talk about that mystery surveillance drone that crashed in Arizona.
Not a hobby drone. This was military-adjacent tech with encrypted optics, stealth flight modes, and autonomous tracking. You know, just normal border tourism things.
NORAD didn’t catch it. The FAA didn’t catch it. The only thing this drone couldn’t sneak past was the cactus it landed on.
So what do we know? It’s probably foreign, it’s possibly criminal, and it’s definitely going to be featured in the next Call of Duty patch.
SEGMENT 4 – “THE PIXELPULSE APOCALYPSE, CONTINUED…”
Back to PixelPulse, because it’s giving us more drama than five Netflix docs combined.
New leaks show Kim signed off on a memo explicitly warning him not to sell his shares. And yet he did. That's like being told, "Do not press this button," and responding with, "I pressed it, tweeted about it, and made it a collectible NFT."
And the board? Furious. An emergency meeting is happening tomorrow. Translation: if Kim still has a parking spot by Wednesday, it’s only because HR forgot to update the sign.
SEGMENT 5 – “CRIME & AI: THE ALABAMA ACCORD”
In Alabama, Governor Elizabeth Hunt just passed the AI Identity Theft Act—making it a felony to steal someone’s face or voice with AI.
Now, don’t get me wrong: protecting people from being deepfaked into Venmoing a scam pastor is important. But imagine trying to explain this law in 1995.
“Yes, Your Honor, the defendant created a realistic clone of Deacon Jim using ChatGPT and made him ask for tithe payments via Instagram Live.”
Honestly, Alabama is ahead of the curve on this. Expect Texas to pass a similar law next week… but only to protect AI-generated photos of George Washington riding a bald eagle.
CULTURE & CHAOS
Quick shoutout to Rowan Grey, who won Best New Artist and Musician of the Season at the Harmonix Awards. Two things the GOP never wins in the same week: “Best New” and “Seasonal Relevance.”
Meanwhile, J-Dub dropped No Misses, a song so good even the economy tried to download it twice.
And yes, Thunder Carter and Savannah Rose performed together. When the music’s good enough, even Twitter trolls shut up for a whole five minutes.
ECONOMIC MELTDOWN-IN-WAITING
Here’s your economic moodboard:
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GDP? Cooling. Like your ex’s heart after your fourth “U up?” text.
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Inflation? Still spicy at 5.3%.
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Unemployment? Creeping up like it’s auditioning for a horror movie.
Crypto is crashing. Consumer confidence is sinking. And the Fed is maintaining “hawkish vibes.” Not policy. Vibes. Yikes.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
It’s only mid-July, and already:
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The stock market’s having trust issues.
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A drone nearly started Border War II.
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And the CEO of a game company is speedrunning PR disasters like it’s a side quest.
But hey, at least America finally found something to unite behind: the phrase “Oh god, what now?”
NOAH (smirking):
That’s our show.
Stay loud. Stay woke. And remember: if you see Daniel Kim near a “Sell” button, slap it out of his hand.Goodnight, and good luck.
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Merit or Myth? The College Admissions Culture War
[Intro Music Fades In]
Mason:
What’s up, truth-seekers? Welcome back to Real Talk with Mason Carter. I’m your guy, Mason—ex‑fighter, current comedian, and eternal skeptic of the system. Tonight, we’re drilling into one of the hottest flashpoints in America right now: college admissions and the ‘meritocracy’ war. Everybody’s talking about it—DEI, affirmative action, race-neutral policy, merit-based admissions. But sticky questions remain: is it fairness or just a new form of exclusionism?Tonight, we’ve got an explosive story coming out of Kentucky. Governor Tony Raines just signed the Kentucky Fair Admissions and Education Act—basically a statewide ban on race-based affirmative action and DEI programs at public colleges. This is fresh: the law prohibits race-based criteria for admissions, scholarships, grading—you name it. They can still use GPA, test scores, extracurriculars or economic background—but NO racial preferences. Raines even mentioned Supreme Court rulings, saying students are “not checkboxes.” Sounds principled, right? But when people dig deeper, it gets messy.
Tonight’s guests reflect different perspectives:
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Dr. Simone Alvarez, Education Sociologist—joins us to break down what this means on the student level.
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Marcus Chen, Civil Rights Attorney—he’ll fight us through the court posture and potential future battles.
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And we’ll hear from Charlie Jensen, the former Dean of Admissions, who’s been caught in the daily grind of shakey policies and shifting priorities.
So grab your drink—whether it’s black coffee or bourbon—and let’s tear into it.
[Segue Music]
Segment 1: THE KENTUCKY CASE
Mason:
Let’s lay it flat. Kentucky signs new law. No “race-based” anything in college admissions. How’s that really different from current Supreme Court precedent?Dr. Simone Alvarez:
It’s an escalation. The Supreme Court bans race-based quotas or explicit racial preferences, but colleges could still pursue holistic review including race. This law removes that tool entirely at the state level. They now ban implicit racial awareness in admissions decisions.Mason:
So they can ask about first-gen status, low-income background—but not South Asian, Black, Native? That’s wild.Simone:
Exactly. Test scores and wealth-biased factors are still in, but race as context is out. Institutional diversity often drops when race is eliminated—not because students aren’t there, but because admissions officers can’t account for systemic hurdles.Mason (leaning forward):
It’s odd that “merit” is sold as this pure ideal, when merit’s already been skewed in favor of who has been prepped to succeed.
Segment 2: ON THE GROUND IMPACT
Mason:
Charlie Jensen, former dean—tell us, what’s the daily chaos when race is off the table?Charlie Jensen:
My job was to assemble a freshman class that brought numerous perspectives. Now, I can’t even mention race, so a lot gets locked out. First-gen label captures some, but not the whole story. In practice, institutions become more homogenous—more suburban, more affluent.Mason:
So when they say it’s “race-neutral,” it’s mostly just wealthy privilege?Charlie:
Unfortunately, yes. We saw citation after citation in studies: when race can’t be considered, underrepresented students vanish in numbers—despite talent or drive.
Segment 3: THE LEGAL BATTLE
Mason:
Marcus Chen—come on, lawyer up. Where do we go from here? Is this grounded?Marcus Chen:
This law does step further than federal rulings, but it stands on constitutional footing at the state level. Challenge is predictable—lawsuits will come, some lawmakers may push for broader application, but the fear isn’t about legality—it’s about chilling effect and ideological messaging. Colleges may become risk-averse or rebrand race-neutral measures cleverly disguised.Mason:
Essentially, the elephant in the room: you banned race, but history and economics stay in. A kid from leafy suburb still gets in; kid from rural Black community still gets cut.Marcus:
Exactly. Race-neutral legislation can look fair while masking racial disparity. Statistics in Pilotville law referenced this.
Segment 4: WIDER IMPLICATIONS & CONSPIRACY CHECK
Mason:
Let’s zoom out. This is Kentucky, but it’s part of a bigger brand: “merit over identity.” Conservatives love to frame it as antiracist—“I see you as a human, not a color.” But critics say it erases identity and cultural truth. Where’s the catch?Simone:
When equity is removed, equality becomes superficial. You give everyone a chance, ignoring the foundational disadvantages they’re starting with. Manifest resets the baseline at a narrow view of fairness.Mason:
Do we dive into conspiracies? Like, is this an orchestrated movement to erase cultural identity under the guise of fairness?Charlie:
There is a coordinated push—from think tanks to donor groups—to reframe race as taboo, race-neutral politics, etc. It’s not a coincidence Kentucky’s move followed a Supreme Court decision. These policies often serve as ideological signaling—an announcement.Mason:
So it's culture war theater. But it affects actual lives—who gets a college degree, access to decent jobs, generational wealth.
Segment 5: WHAT CAN BE DONE
Mason:
Real talk: what’s the way forward? Are there compromises?Marcus:
Some jurisdictions have passed race-conscious admissions as legally as possible. Others emphasize economic disadvantage or messaging programs to reach underrepresented kids before college. It’s not perfect—administrators still worry about compliance.Simone:
Community colleges with open enrollment still provide an avenue. But pipelines need to be fortified—outreach, funding, summer bridges. Race-neutral policies shouldn’t be an excuse to ignore deeper systemic issues.Mason:
Kentucky’s law is a symbol, but the fix happens early: from preschool on. Merit is a construct—and hard to measure if the playing field isn't leveled long before application day.
Closing Thoughts
Mason:
So that’s the story: in the push for “merit,” Kentucky and probably soon other red states are erasing race—not for fairness, but to rewrite history. We saw how explicit exclusion masks itself as virtue. Test scores are never neutral—they reflect opportunity, inherited advantage, network, wealth.Call to Action:
If you care about genuine access, fight upstream: support underfunded school districts, donate to outreach programs, volunteer for mentoring, pressure legislators for equity-based funding. The battle isn't just on applications—it’s in every classroom and hallway before that.Outro:
Thanks to Simone, Charlie, and Marcus for a real conversation—no fluff, just facts. Hit up RTMasonCarter on X, Instagram, Threads—tell me who’s getting locked out in your community. Next week: we’re diving into the political muscle behind the new Dynamic Football League. Is football the next political stadium?Subscribe, rate the show, drop a review. From my corner of the late‑night world—stay woke, stay skeptical—and keep it real.
[Outro Music Fades In]
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Alabama legislature approves nation’s first criminal ban on AI identity theft
Montgomery, Alabama – State legislators have approved Republican Elizabeth Hunt’s Alabama A.I. Protection Act in an unanimous vote.
The legislation would make it a third degree felony in the state to steal someone’s voice, face, or likeness that was not authorized in contractual or written permission. This legislation passed in response to a faith-based impersonation scam in the state that scammed parishioners of a local church in the amount of $38,000.
“This isn’t science fiction anymore,” Lieutenant Carla Mendez with the Walker County Sheriff’s Department said. “AI fraud isn’t the future. It’s here and it’s targeting our most trusting and vulnerable residents.”
The legislation would also require any monetary gain from the unauthorized use of someone’s voice, face, or likeness be turned over to the victims of said crimes if a person is convicted of said crime.
The punishment for violators of the statute would be akin to third degree theft of lost property or services and third degree forgery which are lower level crimes in the state’s classes of felonies. Although those are the lowest level felonies in the state, they still carry a jail sentence between 1 and 5 years in jail and fines not exceeding $7,500. However, this specific crime would potentially carry a larger monetary penalty than the statue.
The legislation didn’t pass without debate however as Tony Raines, representing Kentucky, proposed an amendment limiting the scope of the crime to if it is done with the genuine intention of committing financial/resource fraud or in an attempt to slander or libel an individual.
That amendment passed the state legislature in a unanimous vote.
Alabama, assuming the legislation is signed, will be the first state to make it a crime to steal someone’s voice, face, or likeness without permission. It remains to be seen if other states or the U.S. Congress will take up the issue with their own legislation.
The legislation is now expected to reach Hunt’s desk as Governor of Alabama. She is widely expected to sign the legislation.
Players mentioned: @Redacted @SWMissourian
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Economic Indicators
Indicator Value Change Analysis GDP Growth Rate 2.6% ▼ –0.1 pp Cooling slightly as regulatory turbulence and consumer caution dampen investment momentum. Inflation Rate (CPI) 5.3% 
No change
Sticky inflation persists in housing and services despite easing in energy prices. Unemployment Rate 3.7% ▲ +0.1 pp Marginal uptick as layoffs begin in tech and logistics sectors, reflecting cost control efforts. Consumer Confidence Index 95.2 ▼ –1.3 pts Ongoing inflation, higher borrowing costs, and tech market volatility spook consumers. Federal Interest Rate 5.25% No change
Fed maintains pause but hawkish sentiment returns as inflation hovers above 5%. 
Sector Business Growth Rates
Sector Growth Rate Drivers Technology and Innovation –0.2% EU AI ruling disrupts global contracts and cloud analytics pipelines; reorganization underway. Agriculture and Food Production +0.3% Improved weather conditions support planting; federal water and rural investment bills stabilize outlook. Manufacturing, Transportation, and Retail +0.4% Still riding federal infrastructure wave, but cost pressures and interest rates temper hiring. Energy and Resources +0.2% New clean energy incentives keep momentum up, though investor risk appetite is down. Entertainment, Media, and Culture 0.0% Flatline. High ticket prices, stagnant ad revenues, and post-CCI declines soften activity. Services and Finance +0.1% Slight gains in healthcare and professional services offset by slowing consumer lending and fintech stress. Cryptocurrencies –0.9% Regulatory overhang from Europe and risk-off investor behavior lead to declining asset values. Summary
The U.S. economy enters a delicate cooling phase. GDP dipped slightly to 2.6%, while inflation remains at 5.3%, putting pressure on the Fed to consider future rate action. The Consumer Confidence Index dropped significantly to 95.2, and the unemployment rate inched up to 3.7%, signaling caution in labor markets—especially in tech and logistics.
The biggest disruption came from tech and crypto, with the EU AI privacy ruling prompting compliance pullbacks, contract suspensions, and asset volatility. This has also fed into a broader perception of instability in digital sectors.
What to Watch
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Fed messaging in coming weeks: CPI above 5.3% could break the interest rate pause.
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Congressional posture on data privacy and AI governance in response to the EU decision.
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Mid-summer consumer spending trends, particularly in travel, housing, and entertainment.
Name State HQ Revenue Operating Costs Taxes Tax Rate Founder Ownership % RP Profit Modifier Net Profit Giovanni Industries Connecticut $7,297,343 $5,528,467 $0 7.50% 76.50% -100.00% $0 Atchi Designs, LTD Washington $100 $91 $0 1.65% 95.00% -100.00% $0 Hawkins Hot Chicken North Carolina $11,264,316 $9,980,184 $0 2.50% 68.85% -100.00% $0 Sully's Dairy Wisconsin $353,219 $280,244 $3,459 7.90% 68.85% -40.00% $26,687 Harrington, Meyer & Wilson LLP New York $3,755,328 $3,279,152 $0 6.50% 76.50% -100.00% $0 LUMI:BU Inc. Florida $3,002,656 $2,736,621 $0 4.46% 85.00% -100.00% $0 SG Motorsports Texas $0 $0 $0 0.00% 100.00% -100.00% $0 Powell Family Farms Colorado $6,859,948 $6,112,214 $0 4.55% 95.00% -100.00% $0 Palmetto Industrial Equipment, Inc. South Carolina $8,784,374 $2,812,757 $677,779 5.00% 90.00% 127.00% $11,522,236 The Cross Group Michigan $8,996,858 $899,686 $655,871 6.00% 90.00% 35.00% $9,182,193 Elevate Energy Solutions Colorado $7,238,049 $3,524,206 $67,592 4.55% 65.03% -60.00% $898,379 House of Rensselaer Louisiana $2,046,767 $1,845,160 $10,080 5.00% 85.00% 0.00% $161,285 @Avner @SWMissourian @camilodeso @Mikey @AGR
Player Character Total Portfolio Value Stock Market Holdings Crypto Holdings @Mikey Rowan Grey $358,727,488 $358,727,488 $0 NPC Kyle Fitzgerald $200,781,087 $200,781,087 $0 NPC Celeste Hart $123,531,000 $123,531,000 $0 NPC Nathaniel "Nate" Yoder (R-SD) $91,388,000 $91,388,000 $0 NPC Jaden "J-Dub" Williams $86,808,200 $86,808,200 $0 NPC Aloysius "Mud" Devadander Abercrombie $76,011,989 $76,011,989 $0 NPC Joan Carpenter (R-ID) $74,150,700 $74,150,700 $0 NPC Elise Montgomery (R-KS) $71,344,000 $71,344,000 $0 NPC Leon Patterson (D-NY) $62,985,000 $62,985,000 $0 NPC Daniel "Danny" Lau (D-HI) $62,608,000 $62,608,000 $0 NPC Eddie Jenkins (R-NC) $58,170,000 $58,170,000 $0 NPC Sophia Delaney (D-VT) $52,795,000 $52,795,000 $0 NPC Aiden Grey $52,397,600 $51,410,000 $987,600 NPC Rosa Brennan (R-VA) $51,410,000 $51,410,000 $0 NPC Brett Stephens (R-SC) $51,410,000 $51,410,000 $0 NPC Jonathan "Jack" Halvorson (D-MN) $49,977,000 $49,977,000 $0 NPC Walter LeBlanc (R-ND) $49,482,000 $49,482,000 $0 NPC Thomas "Tom" Callahan (D-MA) $49,405,000 $49,405,000 $0 NPC Abigail "Abby" Shaw (R-IA) $49,380,000 $0 $49,380,000 NPC Marcus Donovan (D-WI) $49,380,000 $0 $49,380,000 NPC Jonathan "Jack" Whitmore IV (R-MO) $48,123,000 $48,123,000 $0 NPC Elijah "Eli" McGrath (R-AR) $48,123,000 $48,123,000 $0 NPC Laura Hayes $48,090,000 $48,090,000 $0 NPC Samuel Beauregard (R-LA) $48,090,000 $48,090,000 $0 NPC Lorenzo Bellini (D-IL) $48,090,000 $48,090,000 $0 NPC Arjun Patel $48,090,000 $48,090,000 $0 @SWMissourian Knox Carver $47,986,030 $47,986,030 $0 NPC Wayne Randolph (R-TN) $45,327,000 $45,327,000 $0 NPC William Granger (R-AL) $45,243,000 $45,243,000 $0 NPC Nathaniel "Nate" Crowley (R-WY) $45,243,000 $45,243,000 $0 NPC Ollie Fischer (D-WA) $43,000,000 $43,000,000 $0 NPC Samuel "Sam" Drayton (R-GA) $42,600,000 $42,600,000 $0 NPC Evelyn "Evie" Carrington (D-ME) $42,550,000 $0 $42,550,000 NPC Cedric Bullock (D-MD) $41,128,000 $41,128,000 $0 NPC Ethan Hayes (R-AK) $37,791,000 $37,791,000 $0 NPC Eleanor “Ellie” Graham (D-DE) $31,677,000 $31,677,000 $0 NPC Sean Mueller (R-TX) $29,094,000 $29,094,000 $0 NPC Henry "Hank" Calhoun (R-AZ) $29,094,000 $29,094,000 $0 NPC Samuel Kent (R-NE) $27,687,000 $27,687,000 $0 NPC Rafael Navarro (D-OR) $27,108,000 $27,108,000 $0 NPC Malcolm Price (D-CA) $25,705,000 $25,705,000 $0 NPC Caroline Maddox (R-MS) $25,705,000 $25,705,000 $0 NPC Harlan "Big H" Montgomery (R-WV) $23,268,000 $23,268,000 $0 NPC Jennifer K. Simmons $19,262,880 $19,262,880 $0 NPC Michael Daniels $18,866,000 $18,866,000 $0 NPC Michael P. Johnson $18,706,350 $18,706,350 $0 NPC James R. Maxwell $15,710,760 $15,710,760 $0 NPC David Anderson $13,937,880 $13,937,880 $0 NPC Gary Hurst $13,844,460 $13,844,460 $0 NPC Jonathan Fleming $13,843,500 $13,843,500 $0 NPC Thomas A. Bennett $13,787,500 $13,787,500 $0 NPC Margaret "Maggie" Sinclair (R-SC) $12,852,500 $12,852,500 $0 NPC Sean Thornhill (D-NH) $12,760,000 $0 $12,760,000 NPC Richard M. Harris $12,540,470 $12,540,470 $0 NPC Anthony B. Griffin $11,425,960 $11,425,960 $0 NPC Jean-Pierre Lafont $11,337,300 $11,337,300 $0 NPC Calvin "Sage" Lyons $10,953,700 $10,953,700 $0 NPC Laura M. Peterson $9,979,810 $9,979,810 $0 NPC Li Wei Zhang $9,460,000 $9,460,000 $0 NPC Lorraine Duval $8,598,450 $8,598,450 $0 NPC Greg Chandler (R-IN) $8,510,000 $0 $8,510,000 NPC Craig Bird $7,415,070 $7,415,070 $0 NPC Alexander S. Walker $7,228,800 $7,228,800 $0 NPC Jessica T. Hawkins $6,289,200 $6,289,200 $0 NPC Alex J. Reynolds $5,770,800 $5,770,800 $0 NPC Daniel T. Kim $1,950,240 $1,950,240 $0 @Mikey Declan Cross $1,508,100 $1,508,100 $0 @Vesica Alexander Giovanni $1,259,700 $1,259,700 $0 NPC Jason Patel $1,016,175 $845,975 $170,200 NPC Nova Skyler "NOVA" $868,750 $230,750 $638,000 @Brink Edna "Edie" Hawks $143,856 $143,856 $0 NPC Bud Fox $18,144 $18,144 $0 NPC Jameson Keane $5,515 $5,515 $0 @jakeakins Askari Pierre (D-IN) $576 $576 $0 View full stock holdings: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xYK_czKZJo-OdjqAE88u23vgmxnaXGB7YitGkO9g3ag/edit?usp=sharing
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Drone Crash Near Arizona Border Raises Alarms Over National Security
Cochise County, AZ — A foreign-manufactured surveillance drone crashed just north of the U.S.-Mexico border on July 6, sparking a multi-agency federal investigation and heightening fears of foreign surveillance activity on American soil. The incident occurred at approximately 9:52 a.m. local time near Douglas, Arizona. Border Patrol agents responded to the crash site, securing the wreckage of what officials are calling a “military-adjacent” unmanned aerial vehicle equipped with advanced optics and encrypted communications technology.
Though the drone was not weaponized, officials say it carried surveillance systems far more sophisticated than anything typically seen from criminal cartels or hobbyist users. The discovery has led to immediate scrutiny of U.S. border security protocols and the resilience of domestic airspace defenses in the face of evolving aerial threats.
A New Breed of Drone Technology
According to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sources, the crashed drone was notably heavier and more durable than standard commercial models. Its capabilities included high-resolution multi-spectral imaging, secure satellite uplink hardware, and flight control software optimized for stealth and long-range autonomous navigation. Security experts reviewing the wreckage believe the drone was built with capabilities often associated with military or state-level intelligence programs.
“This wasn’t some off-the-shelf MercuryMart purchase,” a senior DHS analyst told The National Ledger. “Its structural and technical profile suggests deep resources behind it—possibly a foreign state actor or an elite criminal organization with access to advanced engineering.”
Detection Failure and Growing Vulnerability
The drone was not detected by NORAD or FAA radar systems until shortly before impact. CBP surveillance feeds picked it up just minutes before the crash, indicating a major vulnerability in real-time detection capabilities. Analysts believe the aircraft may have crossed the border from Mexican airspace, but its actual launch point remains unknown.
This detection failure is now under internal review, especially in light of prior warnings. The Department of Defense recently circulated a confidential bulletin citing a rise in “unidentified aerial vehicles exhibiting non-commercial behavior” across the southern U.S. border. While no link has been formally confirmed, the drone’s appearance fits the profile described in those earlier advisories.
Investigative Response and International Implications
A tri-agency task force—consisting of DHS, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Department of Defense (DoD)—is now conducting a forensic investigation of the drone’s internal components. The probe is focused on decrypting telemetry logs, firmware data, and any residual identifiers that could pinpoint its origin. Preliminary analysis suggests portions of the drone’s onboard memory may have been remotely wiped or damaged in the crash, making attribution difficult. Officials have not ruled out a range of potential culprits, including transnational criminal syndicates, rogue intelligence contractors, or nation-state operators. While DHS has so far declined to confirm any foreign involvement, analysts note the crash adds to growing evidence that high-tech surveillance tools are being deployed along U.S. borders in increasingly bold ways.
As investigators sift through the wreckage, the drone crash near Douglas stands as a stark warning: the age of high-tech border incursions has arrived, and America’s response is now being tested in real time.
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Rowan Grey Makes Harmonix History at Spring 2025 Awards
Hollywood’s iconic Dolby Theatre lit up last night for the 3rd Harmonix Awards, as fans, musicians, and rising stars gathered to celebrate the standout tracks of Spring 2025. While the night delivered plenty of applause-worthy moments, one name stood above the rest: Rowan Grey.
The breakout singer-songwriter not only took home Best New Artist, but also closed the evening by winning Musician of the Season, marking the first time in Harmonix history that both honors were awarded to the same artist in a single show. His soulful ballad “Half of Him” and strong presence throughout the season made him a clear favorite — and his gracious acceptance speeches showed he’s just as humble as he is talented.
On the hip-hop side, J-Dub claimed one of the night’s biggest prizes with Song of the Season for his anthemic single “No Misses.” The track’s infectious hook and confident delivery captured the mood of the season and solidified J-Dub’s place as a Harmonix heavyweight.
The show featured two memorable performances. First up was Aiden Grey, Rowan’s cousin and a past Best New Artist winner, delivering a haunting live rendition of “Haunt Me.” The song earned Best Rock Song at the previous Harmonix Awards and reached #2 on the Billboard charts — and last night’s performance proved its staying power. Later, Thunder Carter and Savannah Rose tore up the stage with their genre-fusing hit “Second Skin,” the gritty track that earned Best Hip-Hop/Rap Song earlier this year.
Guiding the night was charismatic host Jackson Sterling, who brought energy, charm, and his signature radio-ready voice to every moment. From red carpet shoutouts to heartfelt send-offs, Jackson kept the show running with just the right blend of polish and personality.
As the curtains closed and the final notes faded, one thing was clear: Rowan Grey isn’t just a promising new voice — he’s now one of the game’s defining artists. And with summer releases already heating up, the road to the 4th Harmonix Awards is looking more competitive than ever.
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This Week Song Artist Last Week Weeks on Chart Peak Position 1
Here With You Rowan Grey 1 10 1 2
Cosmic Voyage Jake "Fern" Glenn 2 10 1 3
Echoes Rowan Grey 3 5 3 4
Can’t Unlove Me Celeste Hart 4 10 3 5
Still Got Smoke Calvin "Sage" Lyons 6 6 5 6
Home Alone Rowan Grey 5 10 3 7
Electric Wasteland Jake "Fern" Glenn 9 6 7 8
Would You Even Want Me Rowan Grey 8 4 7 9
Half of Him Rowan Grey 11 12 2 10
Girls Like Us (ft. Edie Hawks & Roxy Blaze) Celeste Hart 14 9 9 11
Rekindled Love Jake "Fern" Glenn 10 16 3 12
Ruthless, Romantic Roxy Blaze 13 6 11 13
Say Less, Mean More Calvin "Sage" Lyons 15 6 13 14
No Misses Jaden "J-Dub" Williams 12 16 1 15
All Yours Tonight Malik Rivers 7 13 5 16
Replay Arjun Patel 16 2 16 17
Last Call Lullaby Edna "Edie" Hawks 20 11 15 18
Honky-Tonk Halo Laura Hayes 17 15 3 19
Collide Rowan Grey 18 14 2 20
Balcony Calvin "Sage" Lyons 23 6 20 21
Better Off Without You Rowan Grey 24 10 5 22
Kaala Dhan (Black Money) Arjun Patel 19 2 19 23
Last One Standing (Alone) Roxy Blaze 25 6 19 24
Dale Candela (Bring the Heat) Santiago “El Fuego” Herrera 21 15 4 25
Night Lights Jake "Fern" Glenn 26 6 25 26
My Ride or Die Jaden "J-Dub" Williams 28 16 3 27
Chainlink Halo Colt Maddren 33 2 27 28
Chakravyuh (Labyrinth) Arjun Patel 27 2 27 29
Too Young to Break Celeste Hart 29 10 18 30
Black and Blue Elijah Thompson 22 12 17 31
Lost In The Light Rowan Grey 30 10 24 32
Fireline Nico Liora "NILO" - 1 32 33
Keep It Together Rylan "Echo" Vasquez - 1 33 34
Mama Jo Colt Maddren 41 2 34 35
Don’t Look Down (Fern Edit) Celeste Hart 32 10 22 36
Arthur Would Never Edna "Edie" Hawks - 1 36 37
Mirror, Mirror Zara Knight 35 14 7 38
Fever I Can't Shake Edna "Edie" Hawks 37 13 12 39
The Pieces You Left (ft. Rowan Grey) Celeste Hart 38 10 20 40
Heartthrob Season Malik Rivers 31 14 19 - Read more...
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After a relatively quiet election season and many polls that showed U.S. Senator Paul Garrett (R-OK) as the favorite to beat Vice President Kayley Brennan (D-OH) in the race for the Presidency, Garrett has won the nation’s highest office with a stunning electoral college majority and the popular vote. President-elect Garrett won with 336 votes to Brennan’s 202. He also won the popular vote roughly 53% to 47%.
Garrett’s wide margin of victory is due to his victories in almost all of the nation’s key swing states, including solid wins in Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Nevada. Garrett also pulled off upset victories in states that have trended blue in recent years, including Colorado, Maine, and Virginia. While he did lose Ohio due to Brennan’s presence at the top of the ticket, such a brutal sweep following the one-term Presidency of left-wing politician Jordan Carter (D-CO) represents a nationwide repudiation of the Democratic Party.
“The Democrats have some soul-searching to do after tonight,” Anchor Chain political analyst Doug Lincoln said. “This is just about as close as you can get to an electoral massacre in today’s polarized environment.”
The night was not without some highlights for the Democrats, who managed to narrowly prevail in flipping the Governor of Indiana by electing Indiana legislator Askari Pierre. Pierre previously made headlines by proposing left-wing agenda items to the state legislature, including a bill that would have defunded Roman Catholic hospitals throughout his state if enacted. Such moves only made his victory more difficult, and most believed it was impossible. Yet, Indiana stands today as an undeniably red, conservative state with a blue governor.
Governor Tony Raines (R) of neighboring Kentucky has already promised the Anchor Chain that Republicans throughout the region will not support Pierre’s more radical agenda items. “The conscience, convictions, and faith of all Indianans are safe. We will not let Askari Pierre close Christian hospitals or enact his radical left-wing social agenda,” he told us.
Overall, it’s a big night for the GOP as they move to once again take power in Washington after several months of Democratic rule in the Executive Branch.
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🏛️📊 Weekly Senator Approval Ratings (Class II)
Marina Reed (R-AK): 42.69% Larry Roth (D-CA): 44.67% Eugene Lane (D-DE): 41.92% Hannah Trujillo Kahiona (D-HI): 62.58% Brayden Morse (R-IN): 45.16% Russell Hampton (R-KY): 48.13% Melvin Shaw (D-MD): 47.66% Tom Hensley (R-MN): 39.54% Derrick Watkins (R-MT): 46.08% Caroline Foster (D-NH): 40.04% Edward Weber (D-NY): 46.95% Andre "Dre" Malcolm Thompson (D-OH): 50.09% Jim Alton (R-PA): 43.9% Mallory Pike (R-SD): 46.22% Eric Duncan (R-UT): 49.32% Cassandra "Cassie" Park (D-WA): 43.45% Lowell Goff (R-WY): 51.38%- Read more...
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The Union Is Strong—In Spite of Carter
[INTRO MUSIC PLAYS — PATRIOTIC GUITAR RIFF]
HALLOWAY (V.O.):
Tonight on The Liberty Report: President Carter is set to give his State of the Union tomorrow—but we already know the script. High-minded rhetoric, low accountability, and an executive agenda wrapped in populist applause lines. We’ll break down what to expect, what to watch for, and what it means for conservatives heading into the summer showdown over housing, infrastructure, and freedom itself.I’m Daniel Halloway—and this is The Liberty Report, where facts come first, and feelings don’t pay the bills.
SEGMENT 1 – “Tomorrow’s Script, Today’s Strategy”
HALLOWAY:
Let’s get this straight right off the bat: President Jordan Carter isn’t giving a speech tomorrow. He’s launching a campaign—one that’s not just about his own re-election, but about reshaping the balance of power in Washington.His administration has already signaled the themes. “Urgency.” “Housing is a right.” “America can’t wait.” Which is political shorthand for: Congress won’t give me what I want, so I’ll take it myself.
You’ve seen the letters. Carter gave the Senate a seven-day ultimatum to pass housing legislation—or he’ll govern by executive order. That's not cooperation. That's coercion with a seal of approval.
SEGMENT 2 – “Executive Orders and End-Runs”
HALLOWAY:
Let’s talk about EO #10—the centerpiece of Carter’s upcoming push. It repurposes federal land for public housing developments. Sounds noble, until you realize it sidesteps state authority, empowers unelected agencies, and gives the executive branch the power to dictate what your neighborhood looks like.Tomorrow night, Carter will likely claim this is about “affordability,” “equity,” and “restoring the American dream.” Don’t be fooled. The real goal is to expand federal control under the guise of compassion. It’s not a housing plan—it’s a land grab dressed up in moral language.
SEGMENT 3 – “Facts Over Feelings: The Economic Reality”
HALLOWAY:
Now, if you're thinking, "Well, maybe some of this helps the economy?"—let’s look at the data.Inflation is at 4.9% and rising—driven in part by surging housing material costs. That’s not just inconvenient. That’s what happens when you flood the market with artificial demand from government-subsidized development.
And yet Carter’s team will brag about GDP growth and unemployment dipping. Sure. That’s what happens when you pour billions into short-term infrastructure and construction jobs without any long-term plan for sustainability. This isn’t prosperity—it’s a sugar high on borrowed money.
SEGMENT 4 – “The Coming Spin”
HALLOWAY:
Expect this tomorrow night: Carter will reference Shanghai. He’ll talk about flood barriers, climate readiness, and how America needs to “meet the moment.” But don’t miss the trick—he’s comparing a Communist megacity’s centralized command structure to our constitutional republic. That’s not inspiration—that’s intimidation.You want to improve infrastructure? Start by empowering states—not by pretending Washington has a monopoly on innovation.
And while we’re here, someone should ask President Carter why the Federal Lands, Local Homes initiative lacks any real metrics or transparency. How many units? At what cost? Who builds them? Where’s the oversight?
Don’t hold your breath. The applause lines are ready. The facts? Not so much.
CLOSING MONOLOGUE
HALLOWAY:
So tomorrow night, the cameras will pan. The handshakes will happen. And President Jordan Carter will declare that America stands at a crossroads.He’s right. But not in the way he thinks.
This is a crossroads between liberty and control. Between constitutional governance and creeping centralization. Between real reform—led by the people—and manufactured crises used to justify power grabs from above.
Watch closely. Listen critically. Because tomorrow’s State of the Union won’t just be a speech. It’ll be a signal. And we need to be ready to answer it with clarity, courage, and a firm defense of what this country was built on.
[OUTRO MUSIC BEGINS — SAME RIFF]
HALLOWAY (V.O.):
That’s all for tonight. You’ve been watching The Liberty Report with Daniel Halloway. Tomorrow, the president speaks. But tonight, you heard the truth.Stay skeptical. Stay sharp. Stay free.
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Shanghai's Flood Defense Deployment Sparks U.S. Infrastructure Soul-Searching
Early activation of China's cutting-edge barrier system highlights America's coastal vulnerability gap
By The Pulse News Network
China's preemptive activation of the Shanghai Superlevee System amid unusually early seasonal rains has captured international attention, particularly among U.S. policymakers and infrastructure experts who are questioning whether American coastal cities are adequately prepared for intensifying climate challenges.
System Responds to Unprecedented Weather Pattern
Shanghai authorities activated their sophisticated flood defense network as torrential rains arrived weeks ahead of the typical Meiyu (Plum Rain) season. By May 28, rainfall totals had reached 180% of the May average, with peak hourly rainfall hitting 61 millimeters on May 30—well above the system's activation threshold.
The Shanghai Superlevee System, completed in phases between 2015 and 2023, represents one of the world's most advanced urban flood defense networks. Designed to protect the megacity's 25 million residents, the system can divert or repel up to 85 million cubic meters of water within 48 hours through an integrated network of flood locks, surge barriers, and high-capacity pumps.
Infrastructure Components in Action
The deployment involved multiple system components working in coordination:
- South Gate Flood Locks were closed to prevent Yangtze River backflow into urban canal systems
- Baoshan Surge Barriers were raised for the first time this year, protecting northern industrial zones and critical port infrastructure
- High-capacity pumps activated across 17 inner-city drainage hubs, each capable of processing 20,000 cubic meters per hour
The system's AI-powered rainfall prediction tools, integrated during recent infrastructure upgrades, contributed to the early activation decision. Preliminary estimates suggest the network has diverted or pumped approximately 74 million cubic meters of water during the current deployment.
U.S. Experts Voice Concerns
The Shanghai deployment has prompted pointed questions from American infrastructure specialists about U.S. coastal preparedness. Karen Benet of the National Climate Resilience Forum noted, "Shanghai has clearly made climate adaptation a national infrastructure priority. The U.S. needs to ask if our systems—from New York to Miami—are as proactive or just reactive."
A Dutch engineer involved in the Shanghai project's original design, speaking anonymously, emphasized the importance of preemptive action: "They're doing what we'd want any delta city to do—don't wait for the flood to act."
Political Ramifications Emerge
The stark contrast between Shanghai's proactive response and U.S. infrastructure capabilities has energized bipartisan coalitions in flood-vulnerable states. Infrastructure experts and political leaders in Louisiana, New York, and Florida are now pressing for comparative audits of American flood control preparedness.
The timing is particularly significant as these states grapple with recurring flood damage and aging infrastructure systems that increasingly struggle with extreme weather events.
Climate Reality Check
Shanghai's situation reflects broader global climate trends. A 2023 Tsinghua University study projected that Shanghai's flood risks could triple by 2040 under current sea-level rise and rainfall patterns. The city sits just meters above sea level, making it one of the world's most flood-exposed megacities, vulnerable to both river and ocean-based surges.
The early arrival of the Meiyu season and its unusual intensity align with climate scientists' predictions of increasingly volatile weather patterns across Asia's coastal regions.
International Best Practices
The Shanghai system, developed in partnership with Dutch and Japanese engineers, represents a convergence of global flood management expertise. The project demonstrates how international collaboration can produce infrastructure solutions that address complex climate challenges facing coastal megacities worldwide.
As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, Shanghai's proactive deployment offers a model for other flood-vulnerable cities—while simultaneously highlighting the infrastructure gaps that many developed nations, including the United States, must urgently address.
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Young Voters
Hello I’m Dr benson Mendel and I was a professor for 25 years and a candidate for President.
The GOP has forgotten about young voters. Young voters we have ceded to the Democrats and progressives. We’ve forgotten their concerns and oftentimes their concerns are really valid and also they are reachable for the GOP.
Ron Paul got significant support from young people. Young people on both sides were tired of marijuana a drug that researchers have found is safer than alcohol being illegal, they were tired of finding their savings taxed, they were tired of big government spending leading to debt that they will pay.
the fact that the GOP doesn’t care about their vote shows that the GOP needs to evolve as a party. Policies like marijuana legalization and not taxing under 18 are conservative policies. Weed legalization is pro business, pro markets and actually anti crime.
Same with not taxing anyone under 18 but I don’t hear about that.
Until the Republicans decide to get into the 21st century we will continue to lose young voters. Young voters who we can win.
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Robert Powell, the founder and lead anchor of Blue Mountain News, a steadfast voice in independent journalism, and the CEO of Powell Family Farms, passed away on March 29, 2025, at the age of 39. He suffered a fatal brain aneurysm while doing one of the things he loved most—fly fishing on the South Platte River.
Born and raised in Fairplay, Colorado, Robert Powell grew up on the land his family had worked for generations. His roots in the rugged, working-class culture of rural Colorado shaped his approach to journalism—straightforward, unfiltered, and deeply attuned to the struggles of everyday people. His reporting was never about clicks or political games; it was about truth, fairness, and ensuring the voices of regular folks weren’t drowned out by the noise of Washington and Wall Street.
Powell’s career began humbly, running his high school newspaper at Park County High before earning a degree in Communication from Colorado Mountain College. His passion for journalism led him to start Blue Mountain News as a small podcast, an independent project that quickly grew into a full-fledged news network known for its hard-hitting analysis and fiercely independent stance.
His work often focused on rural economies, environmental policy, and government accountability, but he was never bound by party lines. He criticized establishment Democrats just as sharply as he did corporate power and right-wing politics, a stance that earned him both respect and controversy. Through it all, Powell remained committed to the belief that journalism’s job was to speak truth to power, no matter who was in office.
When he wasn’t behind the mic, Powell was in the saddle, tending the cattle and sheep on the ranch he inherited from his parents. He was just as comfortable debating politics over coffee at the Fairplay Diner as he was pressing a senator for answers. He believed in hard work, community, and the idea that the news should belong to the people, not the powerful.
Robert Powell is survived by his wife, Jenna, a local veterinarian, and their two children, Eli (12) and Sophie (9). His family, his newsroom, and his audience will remember him not just for the stories he told, but for the way he told them—with conviction, with integrity, and with an unwavering belief that journalism still mattered.
His voice may be gone, but his legacy endures. Blue Mountain News will carry on, just as the ranch will, in the hands of the people who loved him most. Associate anchor and friend Samuel Crafts has been named interim-lead anchor at Blue Mountain News while Ranch Manager and friend Richard Cambille has been named the interim CEO of Powell Family Farms.
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Olympus News Network
ONN Special Broadcast; Debate Night In America -
Vanessa Taylor
Hello America and welcome to ONN, I am Vanessa Taylor. -
Tonight we bring a very special broadcast, as we have two titans of politics that have agreed to come on and debate, I'm sure they'd argue, for the soul of America.
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Tonight we are joined by Fred Bartel, the Chairman of the Republican National Committee and the Republican Gubernational Candidate in Oklahoma and Alberto Montoya, the Chair of the Democratic National Committee and the Gubernational Candidate in New Mexico. Mr. Bartel, Mr Montoya, welcome.
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Fred Bartel
Thank you, Vanessa. What an honor to be here tonight with you and the American people. And I'm glad that Alberto is here as well. It's going to be an amazing show, can't miss TV, and maybe the most critical hour for deciding our country's future in a while. Let's do this. -
Alberto Montoya
It’s a pleasure to be with you Vanessa. Thank you to Fred and the folks at home for letting us beam into their daily news. -
Vanessa Taylor
Alright Gentlemen, I'm going to lay down ground rules. Although this isn't an official debate by any stretch of the imagination, I want to be clear, I control your mics, and I will turn them off. I want you both to treat this no different then if you were both your party's candidate for President; I'll pose you each a question. Both will have a chance to answer, and both will have a chance at rebuttal. Are we clear on the rules gentlemen? -
Fred Bartel
Crystal. -
Alberto Montoya
Sounds good to me Vanessa, -
Vanessa Taylor
Let's start this with an easy ball question. You are the de-facto leaders of your respective parties. In your own words, what are the greatest challenges that are facing America today, and why is your party best suited to do. Mr. Bartel, we'll start with you. -
Fred Bartel
Vanessa, the American people are tired of being ripped off and served pennies on the dollar when it comes to both their votes and hard work. The cost of housing, groceries, and energy are all skyrocketing, especially in left-wing-run cities. They see leftist elites wasting their tax money on extremist pet projects like sex reassignment surgeries for convicts and minors. Those same out-of-touch institutionalists will shrug off the suffering of regular Americans, but then lose their minds over one minor gaffe made by a local politician. They'd rather police language and words that protect the American people from high prices, the illegal border invasion, and radical agendas. Republicans believe in putting the people first. Make America more affordable and more prosperous again by lowering prices, responsibly investing and saving taxpayer dollars in blue-collar and working-class industries, and secure the border. The American people aren't upper-class divas like the Democrats. They just want Washington to actually care about the issues that matter. Democrats clutch their pearls. Republicans roll up their sleeves. That's the difference. -
Vanessa Taylor
Mr. Montoya, over to you. -
Alberto Montoya
While I have respect for Mr. Bartel for his position, I think to the current priorities of President Sinclair and Congressional Republicans. With severe economic challenges and confidence in question, this President has opted to dip their toes into culture wars rather than deal with the kinds of issues that American families are pondering at the kitchen table. Instead of restrictions on abortion access, the American People cry out for genuine efforts oriented around addressing critical issues like the cost of groceries and the price of gasoline. Fred likes to project an image of the GOP working for the everyday American but Congressional Republicans and President Sinclair are doing everything but. We need a genuine tax cut for working Americans, protecting entitlements, and working to build American commercial and manufacturing industries alike as we enter a new era where our technological edge is critical to standing against competitions like China and Russia. Republicans offer more typical talking points while the White House sells away our industry to the highest bidder. Rather than focus on the issues that matter to everyday Americans, this White House and Republicans at large are interested in scoring cheap political wins at the expense of everyday Americans. -
Fred can’t even acknowledge that President Sinclair is in office! We deserve better.
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Vanessa Taylor
Alright gentlemen. I'll give you five minutes of open debate... keep it civil or I will shut you both down. -
Alberto Montoya
This President has chosen to spend their time fighting culture wars best left to Twitter and Reddit. I think we all would benefit from a party serious about actual issues like the cost of housing and wages in this country. Only Democrats are serious about making a change while Fred Bartel and Republicans are more focused on issues that the vast majority of Americans looking at their savings and their retirement could care less about. We’ve seen Republican candidates across the country embrace pro-corporate politics aimed at harming social security and your right to good healthcare that keeps you and your children insured. I believe we can and should do better at the local, state, and federal level to address the issues of working Americans beyond the slogans that my colleague opposite and his party present. Let’s actually invest in working families and support key pillars of our society like Social Security and the right to unionize. -
Fred Bartel
Alberto, your party showed more outrage and more anger at one gaffe by a Senate candidate than it ever has at the catastrophe of high prices, open borders, and outsourcing. You force our daughters to play against biological men, and then want to laugh at regular Americans for being outraged? You don't get to break the game and then act surprised when people are angry. But that's the thing, Democrats are so out of touch, high on their own upper-crust sauce that they don't know what the American people are feeling. Let's take tax relief for example, which you mentioned. When it comes to tax cuts, no one should trust anything your party says. Your party voted against the Trump tax cuts that expanded the child tax credit, uplifted minority communities with opportunity zones, and delivered the largest sustained increase of median household income in twenty years. But I'll tell what your party did vote for: the Scamflation Reduction Act that actually raised taxes on American families and didn't do anything in terms of lowering inflation. We're burning billions of dollars on green energy pet projects that will never happen because of left-wing regulations in states like California. There is a reason states like Texas lead the world in energy production, including renewables, without wasting tax dollars. It's because we don't write laws to pacify the wine bar crowd of donors. Republicans work to unleash the American spirit. And when we are back in power, we are going to invest in the people who build things. You want to build a factory, mine, or housing in America? Great, because we're going to invest in you and get rid of stupid, left-wing footdragging regulations. Let's face it: Democrats know how to waste your money. Republicans know how to make you money in an economy that builds and creates, instead of dithers and wastes. -
Alberto Montoya
I will never apologize for demanding the best this government can provide whether it be in the calls of Congress or from the White House. We need a government that cares about working Americans and we aren’t getting that from social crusaders like President Sinclair and others who prioritize cultural issues over whether you’ve got enough money at the end of the week to feed your family. It’s as simple as that. -
President Sinclair has had more than enough time to address the issues posed by Mr. Bartel and has failed miserably to do so. Why would we trust them with more control over our daily lives?
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Fred Bartel
You don't get to shatter all common sense, then whine when people point out how crazy you are. You want these 'culture wars' to cease? Then stop firing the damn bullets. Get your crazies in line and tell them to stop forcing our daughters to change in the same locker rooms as men. Stop wasting our money on sex change operations and put it towards school choice and tax relief. Quit telling every last kindergartener that they're racist. Stop burning tens of millions of college money on DEI programs and redevote to scholarships for lower-income and minority kids. Treat the American people with respect. Stop wagging the finger and start shaking their hands. -
Vanessa Taylor
Alright folks, that's enough. We're moving on. -
Alberto Montoya
Fred is too invested in his wresting career from yesteryear to see the politics he advices for have failed at the local, state, and federal level. We need real change and that won’t come from the GOP and President Sinclair. -
Fred Bartel
And now Alberto is laughing at Americans who enjoy wrestling. Is that what you guys talk about when you all go for your group caviar facial sessions in the DNC? Democrats, they are about nothing but whining and posing. Republicans are about building and winning. And yes, I am a great wrestler and I know how to win. It's time to restore that tradition to America. -
Alberto Montoya
Democrats are offering a vision different from the stagnant and broken leadership of President Sinclair and Republicans nationally. A clear different from the nonsense we see out of the RNC. -
Vanessa Taylor
First warning to you both. -
Fred Bartel
My apologies, Vanessa. You are an amazing referee. -
We could have used you at Royal Rumble.
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Alberto Montoya
Apologies Vanessa. We appreciate the candor. -
Fred Bartel
puts his arm around Alberto's shoulder and gives him a backslap And hey now, look at this guy. He's a good man. A bit crazy, very crazy. But he doesn't mean any harm, nor could he do any. This is a great time, let's keep the questions rolling. -
Vanessa Taylor
I'm willing to give you both the freedom to debate, we need more of this frank discussion in this country... but when I said it's done.. we are done. Thank you both. Moving on; in Montana we the mRNA Bill that would ban vaccines that contain it in humans. In Ohio we have the introduction of a gun free zone in private businesses. These two bills, while localized, are extremely controversal about the role of government in private citizen's lives. As you are both running for Governor in your respective states, do you support similar legislation as these two, and on a whole, are either of these pieces of legislation something of interest to your party's agenda nationally.\ -
Fair warning.. after your answer, there will be a follow up before I allow another five minutes of open debate.
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Alberto Montoya
No I don’t. I think Montana Republicans have drank the kool-aid of the far-right in their overreaching ban on mRNA vaccines. I remember when Republicans used to support public health and sound scientific advisement. What we’ve seen since is a party more interested in debating proven science than tangible policy to help Americans. It’s the kind of environment that President Sinclair and others have cultivated in the anti-science and anti-common sense caucus. I think more broadly that any sort of gun safety legislation should take into account how everyday citizens feel. More guns make folks less safe and hurt our economic bottom line. Democrats are committed to a pro-growth and pro-liberty agenda that encourages economic growth while also keeping folks safe. President Sinclair and other Republicans have severely dropped the ball on this front. -
Vanessa Taylor
I'd like to apologze and clarify; the Bill in Ohio is to rescind the Gun Free Zones in Businesses, I'd like to apologize I misspoke. -
Fred Bartel
Look, I believe in freedom and ethics. All Republicans believe in freedom and ethics. It was a Republican administration with President Trump who delivered the world the coronavirus vaccine. We also believe people have rights given to us by God to make responsible decisions for ourselves. If you want to get vaccinated great! If you are hesitant, talk to your doctor and then make the best decision for you. If you love guns, you shouldn't have that right abridged. If you don't want guns on your private property, that's your right. I trust you to make the right call. But now let's look at Democrats. They don't trust you to make decisions about your own freedoms. It was Joe Biden who fired tens of thousands of our brave men and women in uniform because they weren't sure about taking the covid vaccine. Senator Montoya just now said he would strip away your gun rights and pressure or even maybe outright mandate people take drugs they don't trust or believe in. The choice here is simple. If you don't trust yourself and would rather surrender your decisionmaking to some nameless, faceless bureaucrat, vote for the Democrats. But if you want your elected officials to trust you and honor your rights, vote Republican. -
Alberto Montoya
Then all the more reason for robust debate around keeping Americans safe and the dangers of lawless anarchy like President Sinclair and other Republicans prefer. I think, and genuinely I do, that we can preserve second amendment rights with sound policy around criminal justice and keeping folks safe from gun violence. No American should fear entering a church, a mall, a synagogue, a school, and everything in between. This, tied with the far-right effort to demonize vaccines, poses a genuine danger for everyday Americans that Democrats will gladly oppose. -
Will my colleague Fred Bartel stand up for mRNA vaccines?
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It’s a yes or no Mr. Bartel.
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Fred Bartel
No one here is demonizing vaccines. I got vaccinated and look how I great I'm doing. My Republican colleagues and I will say to the American people right now, we encourage Americans to ask their doctors about getting vaccinated. And we trust them to make the best decision for themselves about their health. And here's the difference between Republicans versus Democrats like you, Alberto. We aren't demonizing vaccines. But Democrats have demonized those who are uncertain about getting vaccinated. You demonized our soldiers in uniform. You demonized podcasters and their listeners. You demonized gun owners. At some point, just show the American people some respect to understand freedom is our greatest strength. And I trust the American people with that strength and right. -
Alberto Montoya
I’d recommend telling Montana Republicans that. -
Vanessa Taylor
A fair question then to you both, as a follow up following Mr. Bartel's answer; are these sorts of prioiries you think either state parties or the national ones should be concerned with. Are these issues more niche, are they worth a greater conversation to our nation as a whole. We have a stagnant economy, high interest rates... is now the time to be discussing things like mRNA Vaccines and making Businesses allowed to have guns in them? -
Fred Bartel
They're Americans and we love them, Alberto. Just how I love Democrats, even if they're a bit crazy at times too. -
Alberto Montoya
I think Republicans are focused on issues that everyday Americans don’t give a damn about. Mr. Bartel can run on social issues while his state anguished economically and from an education perspective but I choose to focus on the everyday issues that impact New Mexicans. The cost of housing, healthcare, education, etc. is too damn high in a country with our opulence and I believe Democrats have the real agenda focused on these issues. Republicans take comfort in culture war issues as a distraction to address real-world issues that families struggle with at the dinner table. Democrats promise to protect entitlements, cut taxes for working Americans, and raise wages for all folks regardless of color or creed. Republicans vilify unions, just look at their Nevada Senate candidate, while Democrats uplift labor and work to give everyday workers more control of their daily life. -
Fred Bartel
These issues absolutely matter. But here is where, respectfully Vanessa, I think your question misses the point. The American people just want their leaders to treat them with respect again. Stop wasting their tax dollars on left-wing passion projects and instead put it towards investing in schools, good-paying jobs, and rebuilding the working-class. Stop firing and ostracizing innocent Americans for simply disagreeing about a vaccine. Many of these Americans are the same people who lost their jobs at the coal mine or factories in the Midwest and then saw Big Pharma exploit their suffering with pill mills and opioids. I know why they don't trust the government. And it is up to us on every issue to rebuild that trust by honoring our promises and creating the greatest economy, strongest border, and most prosperous market for working people the world has ever seen. -
Alberto Montoya
President Sinclair and Republicans across the country have failed to deliver and it is high-time we change our approach. Fred advocates for the type of policies that would get him a smiling picture with Ronald Reagan but aren’t equipped to handle the modern day struggles of the American worker. -
Vanessa Taylor
Thank you both again. -
Fred Bartel
Vanessa, I don't mean to hijack this debate, but can we make the working-class a segment? Because I am fixing to talk about this and the American people deserve to know the difference between Iron and irony -
Vanessa Taylor
My final question Mr. Bartel. -
The economy is stagnant. We are seen companies like Giovanni Industries, Hawkins Chicken, MercuryMart which saw some very recent controversery and others seeing some impressive profits. Yet, the economy isn't showing signs of improving or moving forward. My question is thus; what can we do to help working class Americans get ahead and not just by when it's obvious that for some, the economy is working great, and for others, they are being left behind. You each have five minutes.
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Alberto Montoya
I’d like to ask Mr. Bartel a call to action if I may Vanessa? As a strong supporter of more investment and focus on the challenges facing Native Americans in New Mexico, such as my commission to help victims of abuse within the Native American community and abroad, will he join me in support of the Cherokee Nation having a representative within the halls of Congress. A treaty signed more than a century ago remains unfulfilled and I believe it is high time that Republicans and Democratic alike stand together in demanding that Native Americans receive their proper representation in Congress. Let’s make history, push aside the nativists within the GOP, and allow for a representative of Cherokee Nation to advocate for the issues impacting Native Americans in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and nationally. We can stimulate business investment, like Vanessa’s question implied, and promote growth while also creating strong avenues for the folks who live in our country to make their voices heard. -
We can develop a strong and vibrant working class that advocates for all Americans. That requires creating an economic environment that incentivizes business growth and investment from Albuquerque to our border towns I am proud to advocate for. We can generate economic growth and strength our democratic instructions with strategic investment that uplifts the next generation of New Mexicans and folks all over this country.
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Fred Bartel
Invest in those who invest in our workers. We have the greatest, hardest working, most honest workforce on the planet. Let's make them the cornerstone of our economy. Republicans have this offer to every business in America: if you want to build a factory, open a mine, build a home, erect a refinery, or launch a new energy project, we will let you writeoff the cost on your taxes—as long as you promise to hire American workers and American workers only. Next, we are going to cut taxes in a way that matters. Expand the child and the earned income tax credits, deliver paid family and medical leave, and then pay for it by scrapping the left-wing billionaire handout program which is the SALT deduction. Third, secure the border and institute E-Verify. Stop giving preferential treatment to illegal aliens and crack down on corporate corruption. Deport all 1.5 million illegals who already have their deportation orders. And give those jobs and homes back to working-class Americans who were owed them all along. And finally, take on China. Renegotiate our trade deals, break Xi Jinping's monopoly on manufacturing and mining, and disconnect the world from Beijing so we can plug them back into America. Build in America and put our working-class first. -
Alberto Montoya
I’ll be sure to get a signature from Mr. Bartel on my memorabilia from his movies and my genuine hope he’ll consider a pro-growth and pro-community agenda that Democrats have to offer for Oklahoma and states all across this country just like mine. I expect New Mexico to be a national leader in economic and technological development across all fields, especially those with potential growth and innovation to be made. -
Vanessa Taylor
Gentlemen thank you both very much for your time, but I'm afraid our hour is, believe it or not, already up. -
Fred Bartel
Well, this is typical Democrat posturing. I am from Oklahoma, Alberto, and I grew up with the Five Civilized Tribes. And before you or some pink-haired lunatic on twitter loses their mind, that's what they have been called for a century: the five civilized tribes. God help us when Democrats learn about "dwarf stars", they may cancel NASA. But as for your question, I'll counter you. Will you agree to reopen the Dawes enrollment? And will also agree to seize Chinese land in America and give it back to the American people, including Native Americans? If so, you have a deal. -
Alberto Montoya
Fred, always a pleasure. extends hand for shake -
Fred Bartel
shakes Alberto's hand Alberto, always a pleasure. hands him a cigar while lighting up a stogie Let's talk more backstage. -
Vanessa Taylor
I want to thank you both for agreeing to come onto the show. It has been a pleasure and honor, and next time I hope to have you both on to discuss more things of interest to the American people. -
Alberto Montoya
Thank you for having us Vanessa. -
Fred Bartel
You are incredible, Vanessa. Thank you again. -
Vanessa Taylor
Thank you America, this has been Vanessa Taylor with ONN, thank you and have a good night. -
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Wichita Falls, TX – Senator Kyle Fitzgerald (R-TX) found himself in the middle of an unexpected controversy Tuesday night after making a comment at a campaign rally that some critics say diminishes the value of higher education and risks alienating voters focused on expanding educational opportunities.
Speaking before a crowd of supporters in Wichita Falls as part of his Republican primary re-election bid, Fitzgerald was discussing his push for vocational education when he remarked:
"Not every kid needs to go to college. I mean, let’s be honest—maybe some people just aren’t cut out for college, and that’s okay!"
While the statement was clearly intended to reinforce his support for vocational training and alternative career paths, the phrasing immediately drew concern and criticism, with some interpreting it as dismissive of students who struggle academically or come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Within hours, the comment was circulating on social media, with education advocates and political commentators debating whether it was a simple slip of the tongue or a revealing moment that could hurt Fitzgerald in a broader electorate.
Education Advocates React: ‘Bad Wording, Worse Optics’
The response to Fitzgerald’s comment has been divided. While conservative supporters argue that the outrage is manufactured by political opponents, others believe his words reflect a deeper problem with how some policymakers view education and workforce development.
University of Texas Education Professor Dr. Linda Patel:
"The real issue here is not that Fitzgerald supports vocational education—that’s a valid policy stance. The issue is his wording. By saying ‘some people just aren’t cut out for college,’ he reinforced a stereotype that college is only for a certain kind of person. That’s where the controversy lies." Education advocate Maria Salinas:
"Texas needs more pathways to success, absolutely. But telling students they ‘aren’t cut out’ for something, instead of creating opportunities for them to excel, sends the wrong message." Conservative commentator Rick Hanson:
"This is a total nothingburger. Fitzgerald is absolutely right—college isn’t for everyone, and we should be investing in vocational careers just as much as we do in four-year degrees. The only people upset about this are the ones who want every kid buried in student debt at a liberal university."Does the Gaffe Matter?
With Fitzgerald’s Republican primary just days away on March 24, the immediate question is whether this minor gaffe will affect his standing among GOP voters.
Political analyst Brian McCall:
"This is the kind of gaffe that might hurt in a general election, but in a Republican primary, it’s unlikely to move the needle much. Fitzgerald’s base is locked in on border security, crime, and economic growth—this won’t change that." GOP consultant Lisa Cartwright:
"Fitzgerald needs to get ahead of this quickly. He has a strong education record, but the phrasing was bad. If he lets the left define this moment, it could be a problem in the fall."Some Republican strategists worry that even if it doesn’t damage Fitzgerald in the primary, it could be used by Democratic challenger Marcus Randle in the general election on March 31 to frame the senator as dismissive of expanding educational access.
What’s Next?
With the primary election less than a week away, Fitzgerald is expected to pivot back to his strengths—border security, law enforcement, and economic growth—while downplaying the controversy over his education remarks.
Next Moves:
Expect Fitzgerald to emphasize his record on vocational education in upcoming ads.
Watch for his campaign to release endorsements from teachers or school officials.
Look for further clarification from the campaign to ensure the comment doesn’t linger in the media cycle.
While Fitzgerald’s gaffe isn’t campaign-ending, it serves as a reminder that in an election this fast-paced, every word matters.
What do you think? Was this just an off-the-cuff comment, or will it have a lasting impact? Sound off in the comments!
Follow Statehouse Insider for more breaking updates on the March 2025 Senate race in Texas.
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