The Neal Larson Show

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the political landscape post-election, offering a retrospective on how issues rather than candidates defined this unique cycle. They explore voter reactions to economic and cultural shifts, speculating on future Congressional dynamics under potential Trump leadership. Neal shares his optimism about changes in public perception, particularly on polarizing topics like education and virtue signaling, suggesting that common sense may prevail over time.The discussion then shifts to Pam Bondi's appointment as a Trump ally, contrasting her methodical approach with the controversial allure of other political figures, like Matt Gaetz. Julie and Neal also reflect on the experiences of newcomers to East Idaho, noting the warmth of the community and its unique lifestyle compared to urban areas. The conversation highlights the adjustments new residents face, emphasizing the region's charm, friendliness, and its appeal to families seeking a better quality of life.Listeners are invited to share their experiences and thoughts on Idaho's evolving culture, creating a heartwarming dialogue about what makes East Idaho feel like home. Neal and Julie end on a lighthearted note, discussing movies, musicals, and community quirks, bringing their signature blend of insight and humor to the airwaves.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie...Neal and Julie delve into a wide-ranging discussion about current political dynamics, election integrity, and cultural shifts. They reflect on past political events, such as Ronald Reagan's presidency, and draw parallels to recent years, including the unexpected outcomes of midterm elections and the challenges of the 2020 race.The conversation turns to controversies in election administration, including a Bucks County official accused of unethical practices and broader concerns about securing the electoral process. Neal emphasizes the importance of accountability and restoring faith in elections, while Julie shares insights into the cultural battles around fairness, women's sports, and societal norms.They also touch on the growing influence of independent media figures like Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson compared to traditional outlets, signaling a shift in public trust. Neal and Julie agree on the need for a renewed focus on protecting democratic processes and advancing policies that resonate with the American public.The duo's analysis highlights the intersection of political strategy, cultural attitudes, and grassroots movements as they look ahead to the next election cycle.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they delve into several engaging topics, beginning with an analysis of the Republican leadership struggle in the Senate, particularly the dynamics between Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and Rick Scott. Neal shares insights about the secret vote and the broader implications for conservative leadership in Congress.They also highlight the Greater Idaho movement with guest Matt McCaw, exploring the idea of merging eastern Oregon with Idaho. The discussion examines the cultural, economic, and political differences driving the push for secession. Neal and Julie analyze the hurdles involved, such as legislative approval from both Oregon and Idaho, and whether public pressure could make the movement viable. Matt outlines how eastern Oregon's values and governance preferences align closely with Idaho’s, while Julie questions the feasibility and potential compromises required for such a dramatic shift.The episode concludes with a reflection on broader political dynamics, from shifts in conservative influence to how grassroots efforts like the Greater Idaho movement could set a precedent for other regions. Neal and Julie bring their signature mix of thoughtful analysis and lively debate, offering a compelling conversation about the future of regional governance and representation.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the complexities of post-election sentiments and current political dynamics. Neal reflects on the emotional aftermath of significant events like elections and discusses the potential consequences of international conflicts, particularly involving Ukraine and Russia. Julie adds her insights on cultural reactions to political outcomes, including viral phenomena and symbolic gestures like head shaving during personal crises.The duo critiques media narratives, including controversies surrounding election integrity in Pennsylvania and the media’s framing of immigration policies under past and present administrations. Neal shares skepticism about media priorities, while Julie provides perspective on public responses to political and social challenges.They also explore the importance of adapting to change and the resilience required during transformative periods, offering a blend of sharp critique and humor as they navigate the week’s hot topics.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie... The headliner is the highly anticipated Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, which Neal describes as "the lamest thing ever." He shares his thoughts on the disappointment felt by fans, who believed the event was hyped yet scripted, leaving many feeling let down. Julie chimes in, adding her own skepticism about the spectacle.Shifting gears, they discuss Matt Gaetz’s potential nomination as Attorney General under a Trump administration. Neal suggests it might be a strategic move by Trump to draw attention away from other key appointments, which, by contrast, would appear more moderate and acceptable. The duo also examine the political dynamics among Republican leaders, who face the challenge of opposing Trump’s choices without facing backlash.Later, Neal and Julie dive into Trump’s evolving relationship with the media. They explore his claims of wanting a free and open press while maintaining control over the narrative, as illustrated by his meeting with Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski at Mar-A-Lago. Julie notes how Trump’s strategic approach positions him as both a polarizing and commanding figure in the media landscape.Other topics include the Afghanistan withdrawal, the future of mass deportations, and the cultural divide over border policies. Neal and Julie offer insights into how these issues shape public sentiment and political debates, reflecting on the broader implications for the country.From boxing bouts to political maneuvers, Neal and Julie deliver a lively discussion, engaging listeners with their trademark mix of humor and sharp analysis.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie dive into a variety of topics, blending sharp political analysis with their signature humor and wit. They tease a brand-new parody centered around Mitt Romney’s farewell, but you’ll have to download the podcast to hear the full version. The discussion ranges from Matt Gaetz’s potential as a disruptor in government to the broader implications of Trump’s potential presidency and the strategies behind GOP appointments.They also explore how Democrats’ strategies have evolved post-midterms and the public’s shifting perceptions of key political figures like Liz Cheney and Kamala Harris. Julie brings a unique perspective on how time and distance offer clarity in assessing recent elections. Meanwhile, Neal touches on the challenges of governance under Biden and Harris, emphasizing the historical significance of Trump’s impact.For a lighter moment, the pair chat about everything from Mike Tyson to Diet Mountain Dew-fueled antics, balancing thoughtful commentary with relatable humor. Plus, they preview an “Open Phone Friday” segment, giving listeners a chance to weigh in.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, the discussion centers on the surprising announcement of Donald Trump selecting Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. Neal shares how he first learned of the news through a text from Julie and his initial skepticism, which quickly turned to astonishment upon confirmation.Neal reflects on the unconventional choice of Gaetz, contrasting it with more traditional picks like Mike Lee, who embodies the measured and seasoned approach often expected for this role. Neal acknowledges that while Gaetz might not be a long-term fit, his firebrand style could serve a specific purpose: shaking up the Department of Justice and rooting out corruption. Neal likens Gaetz to a "startup CEO," brought in to disrupt the status quo before handing off to someone more steady like Mike Lee.Julie weighs in, noting that Gaetz’s appointment has stirred mixed reactions, ranging from excitement among MAGA supporters to trepidation from moderates. The two hosts discuss Trump’s strategy of surrounding himself with loyalists and how this bold pick reflects his broader agenda to "drain the swamp."Listeners are invited to share their one-word reactions to Gaetz’s appointment. Neal and Julie also touch on John Thune’s elevation to Senate Majority Leader, contrasting his cautious approach with Trump’s more aggressive style, and debating whether Thune can align effectively with the MAGA agenda.The episode wraps with broader reflections on Trump’s appointments and their implications for the Republican Party, the DOJ, and the political landscape over the next six months. Neal and Julie speculate on potential outcomes, including how these moves might define Trump’s administration and reshape the GOP’s direction.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they delve into the recent political developments in Washington, focusing on the ripple effects of Donald Trump's return to the nation's capital. They discuss Trump's interactions, including moments of surprise, like warm greetings from the Bidens, sparking speculation about underlying political motives. Neal and Julie also critique media responses and shifts in coverage, emphasizing how conservative voices and platforms are gaining traction while traditional media outlets face declines.The conversation spans topics like the implications of shifting public sentiments, education reform under Trump, and the impact of celebrity influence in politics. Julie raises poignant questions about how the left is coping with recent losses, while Neal reflects on the possible cultural shift toward conservatism. Their engaging debate explores themes of resilience, strategy, and the evolving political landscape.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, the duo dives into a range of pressing topics that reflect the political and social pulse of East Idaho and the nation. They kick things off with a roads report, noting wet conditions but overall smooth travel. Then, the discussion shifts to Vice President Kamala Harris, critiquing her qualifications and reflecting on the 2020 election's dynamics that brought Joe Biden to the presidency.Julie and Neal explore the future of Donald Trump’s administration, speculating on sweeping changes like dismantling the Department of Education and reshaping American politics for generations. They discuss Trump’s influence on congressional leadership and his handpicking of cabinet members, signaling an aggressive approach to governance.Local matters also take center stage as they examine water agreements, legislative priorities, and the impact of Proposition 1 on Idaho farmers. Neal and Julie weigh the complexities of balancing water resources against legislative hurdles, emphasizing the importance of planning for the future.Rounding out the episode, they touch on immigration policies, including deportation processes and the narrative around border enforcement. The conversation ties in local perspectives with national implications, providing a stimulating blend of insights for listeners.

Send us a textBrian Murdock is a Bingham County farmer whose knowledge of water rights and ability to explain water complexities has made a name for him.  He explains the agreement that was struck between water rights holders in East Idaho and what it means for the future of water rights in Idaho.

Send us a textNeal plays a portion of Reagan's special tribute to the Military to honor Vets on Veteran's Day. A local teacher's verbally abusive social media post goes viral and listeners weigh in on what the consequences she should face. According to a leaked list, Idaho Senators may be among those who at odds with Trump over who should be the Senate Majority Leader. The front runners are John Cornyn and John Thune, but Trump's pick is Rick Scott.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, the two hosts delve into the aftermath of Donald Trump’s victory and reflect on its impact on both the nation and personal relationships. Neal shares his feelings about the election outcome, discussing his optimism for potential changes in the economy, international relations, and American industry under Trump's leadership. They address the mixed reactions from people across the political spectrum, with Neal expressing empathy for those who feel apprehensive about the future and encouraging civility amid differing opinions.Julie adds insights into how people project personal fears and frustrations onto political figures like Trump, urging listeners to look beyond rhetoric and understand the emotions driving some reactions. They touch on the deep divisions over issues such as abortion, highlighting the complexities of legislative approaches, particularly in conservative states like Idaho. Neal and Julie also discuss social media dynamics, suggesting it’s sometimes best to step away from the digital world if political discourse becomes overwhelming.The episode closes with a call for unity and informed involvement in political processes, with Neal and Julie emphasizing the need for communities to stay engaged and support each other as they navigate these polarized times.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they delve into the complex aftermath of recent political developments, reflecting on the need for moments of peace amid the constant whirlwind of public discourse. Neal begins by drawing a parallel to Grover Cleveland’s non-consecutive presidencies, likening it to Donald Trump’s unique political journey, which has redefined modern American politics. Neal describes how Trump’s stance on issues like foreign aid and domestic reform has stirred significant political shifts, especially regarding bipartisan disagreements on fiscal policies and the closed primary system.Julie and Neal also address post-election sentiments, sharing insights into Republican Party dynamics, with some members rethinking the party's future while others question long-held alliances. They discuss Idaho's increasingly conservative legislative landscape, noting how the GOP's influence continues to expand, with a majority control over the state legislature. Neal touches on Biden's current presidency, speculating about the legacy he may wish to leave and the actions he might take as his term concludes.Throughout the conversation, Neal and Julie engage listeners, encouraging them to share their thoughts as they navigate these pivotal times in American politics.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the monumental news that Donald Trump has become the 47th President of the United States. Neal shares how surreal it felt watching the results roll in, surrounded by like-minded individuals as Trump secured victory. The election night was filled with moments of gratitude and intense emotion, and Neal admits he was moved by the experience.They discuss the significance of Trump’s coalition, including support from figures like Tulsi Gabbard, RFK Jr., and Vivek Ramaswamy, which reflects a unique alliance across the political spectrum. Neal and Julie also touch on the success of various ballot initiatives, notably those enforcing citizenship requirements for voting. Arizona’s unique choices regarding election rules and the movement in Alaska to repeal ranked-choice voting also feature in their discussion.The two express cautious optimism about what lies ahead, with Julie noting that the defeat of ranked-choice voting prevents lawmakers from spending time undoing it later. Both hosts appreciate their listeners’ role in getting the word out on issues like Proposition One, and they celebrate the integrity shown by voters in making informed decisions. Reflecting on a range of perspectives, they consider the reshaping of the political landscape and the future for both parties as Trump prepares to take office.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, the hosts delve into Idaho's election concerns, expressing strong confidence in the integrity of the state’s voting system. Neal shares his belief that, unlike other states, Idaho works diligently to ensure every legitimate vote is counted. He criticizes certain Democratic policies that he feels hinder efforts to clean voter rolls of deceased or ineligible voters, asserting these policies allow for potential misuse of votes.As the episode unfolds, Neal and Julie explore the significance of Proposition One, which they argue would lead to a problematic overhaul of Idaho's election system. They voice concerns that if Proposition One passes, it could deeply impact Idaho’s values of secure, fair voting. In advocating for vigilance, Neal calls on conservatives to “demoralize” progressive efforts he views as detrimental, emphasizing the importance of protecting one-person-one-vote principles.Throughout the episode, callers share their perspectives on Trump, local propositions, and the importance of voting. Neal encourages listeners to participate in the election process, particularly those concerned with upholding Idaho’s conservative values. The hosts emphasize the importance of reading ballot measures closely and understanding how each vote influences Idaho’s future. Neal expresses optimism about Trump’s prospects but encourages conservative unity in safeguarding Idaho’s political integrity.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, the focus is on the integrity of the upcoming election and Idaho's proactive measures to secure voting processes. Neal and Julie express concerns over how some Democrat-led swing states may handle vote counting, particularly in states where voter rolls might still include deceased individuals. They discuss the importance of transparency, especially in high-stakes areas, and the need for accountability as poll watchers observe voting processes.Secretary of State Phil McGrane joins to share insights on Idaho's election readiness. With early voting turnout already high, McGrane highlights the robust procedures Idaho has implemented, including same-day registration, secure absentee ballot handling, and early voting security. He reassures listeners that Idaho’s election infrastructure is well-prepared to handle both local and national challenges.They also touch on Proposition 1, urging Idahoans to vote conscientiously on issues that could impact the state's future. For Idaho, they emphasize, the focus should remain on fair and transparent voting. Neal and Julie encourage everyone, regardless of political stance, to exercise their right to vote on Election Day.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into a whirlwind of current political topics, starting with recent controversies over remarks by Joe Biden and Mark Cuban, which have stirred tensions among Trump supporters. Neal and Julie discuss how Biden’s recent comments labeling some Americans as “garbage” and Cuban’s criticism of Trump supporters have sparked significant backlash, questioning whether these statements could have unintended consequences in Trump’s favor.As the conversation unfolds, they explore Trump’s continued popularity, particularly with groups that have traditionally been challenging for him to secure, such as young voters and women. Neal and Julie also touch on Trump’s high-profile interview with Joe Rogan, which they argue has played a significant role in bolstering his reach. This momentum, combined with increased traction among first-time or lapsed voters, makes them optimistic about Trump’s potential performance in upcoming elections, despite divisive issues.The discussion then pivots to Idaho’s Prop 1 and the implications of out-of-state money and ranked-choice voting, which Neal and Julie warn could dilute voters' influence and create unintended complexities in election outcomes. They explain ranked-choice voting’s impact on election dynamics, where the removal of lower-ranked candidates might result in votes shifting to candidates that some voters may not fully support. They share how these changes might force people into ranking candidates they oppose to avoid their votes being exhausted—a point many listeners struggle with.To round things out, Neal and Julie emphasize a call for states to retain more autonomy over federal decisions. This reflects a larger trend they see toward empowering local voices and diminishing federal overreach. The hosts field listener reactions, noting the difficulties of engaging in civil discourse over such polarizing issues but appreciating the support and curiosity of their audience, especially around these complex topics.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the hot-button issues of the current political landscape, beginning with a discussion of how candidates are navigating the public’s perception, especially when handling divisive topics. Neal expresses that Donald Trump’s recent focus on policy has made a strong impression, particularly among voters who are still on the fence. They discuss the impact of voting propositions like ranked-choice voting and open primaries, with Neal noting how these could shift Idaho’s traditional political structure. Julie adds her perspective on how some view these voting systems as a push for more moderate or even liberal candidates in conservative states.The discussion takes a closer look at the group “Veterans for Idaho Voters” and the argument over closed primaries in Idaho. Neal voices concerns that allowing open primaries could disrupt conservative outcomes by inviting non-Republicans to participate. They also touch on the emotional responses these issues evoke, particularly around ranked-choice voting, dark money in politics, and the broader implications for state autonomy.Finally, both hosts emphasize the importance of voters understanding the long-term impacts of these proposed changes and encourage listeners to consider whether these modifications align with their vision for Idaho’s future.

Send us a textBarb Ehardt invites listeners to join the "Trump Train" event. Not only is Idaho’s current infrastructure not be prepared to implement RCV, but it would open the door for unconventional election outcomes, such as helping a lone Democrat in a race against several Republicans.Julie adds that the surge of outside funding for Prop 1 could undermine Idaho's local autonomy, emphasizing the need for transparency about who’s backing this shift. They both question whether ranked-choice voting would benefit the state, with concerns that it may complicate Idaho’s historically straightforward election process. The conversation also touches on the handling of mail-in ballots, and the issues surrounding post-election counting.Neal and Julie wrap up by encouraging listeners to explore the full documentary on Prop 1 by texting a provided number and stay informed ahead of the November election, urging Idahoans to be cautious and deliberate with their votes.

Send us a textOn this episode with Neal and Julie, they discuss the current political climate, focusing on the momentum Donald Trump seems to be gaining in the upcoming election. Neal comments on the surge of energy he senses in Trump’s campaign but emphasizes that supporters shouldn’t become complacent; he urges voters to turn out in full force on Election Day. They touch on Proposition One in Idaho and the controversies surrounding ranked-choice voting, including out-of-state funding and the risks they feel it presents to local elections. Wendy Harmon joins the discussion, sharing her efforts to mobilize support despite recent challenges, highlighting the importance of local involvement in Idaho's elections.Neal and Julie also analyze Trump’s recent events and statements, as well as broader reactions to his policies on immigration, inflation, and crime. They note how Trump’s approach to direct conversations, particularly through platforms like podcasts, resonates with many voters, differing from traditional media coverage. They conclude with a plug for upcoming "Trump Trains" in Idaho, encouraging listeners to participate and show support. Neal sees this as a turning point, noting how these movements reflect the current pulse among Trump supporters in the lead-up to the election.