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.
About the Podcast
A political commentary podcast with Ken Pullin and Dave Roberts.