American Viewpoints

Host Mike Ferguson reacts to US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's announcement of a public health advisory on gun violence.

In recent weeks, President Biden announces new policies to provide a pathway to legal status and possibly citizenship for some immigrants who entered the country illegally. The Executive Order covers those who have successfully stayed in the US for several years and are married to a US citizen. In this discussion, Dan Stein from the Federation for American Immigration Reform assesses that policy as well as the Administration's updates approach to DACA and the illegal immigration happening at the US southern border. For more information: https://www.fairus.org/

Researcher, speaker, consultant, and one of the world's leading experts on entrepreneurialism, Gary Schoeniger, discusses the information in his new book, The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage. The discussion includes reasons the mindset can benefit productivity in almost any setting, business or nonprofit. For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Entrepreneurial-Mindset-Advantage-Unleashes-Potential/dp/163774577X/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1340305246271449&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w8MWz5-giDuUgYDP0dvAvjUw-UTf-Xca2ahkyNYAfAWGMla77rli_R0LUMhKlsp-JxZ187ZNsg42AH7zbdS2gc55JFs4u-ckqyD7BV0yU-kXZlfnY_v7w4PdgLv6AnnR.7yMZ8NoaBkBuov7oT1c3_uyUYHVH2X1udltBvnT8QIs&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83769150116134&hvbmt=bp&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=90099&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=p&hvtargid=kwd-83769438752512%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=21874_10484566&keywords=gary+schoeniger&msclkid=eaf70e5f07ce122d657268d298d5e830&qid=1720557896&sr=8-1

Prof Robert Cherry, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, assesses how current economic conditions - especially those affecting black Americans - could benefit Donald Trump's campaign. For more information: https://www.aei.org/op-eds/black-unemployment-is-a-weakness-for-dems-that-trump-exploits/

Host Mike Ferguson comments on the renewed debate over whether the requirement to register into the Selective Service system should be extended to young women. Ferguson takes the debate a step farther and argues that the US should eliminate the possibilty of a draft altogether.

Economist Howard Wall (University of Tennessee-Chattanooga) comments on the recent statements by former President Donald Trump, who said he wants to replace many or all income taxes with higher tariffs on forign goods sold in the US. For More information: https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/crer/people

Dr Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tommorow (CFACT) comments on how many states, generally Democratic-led ones, suing fossil fuel providers and other businesses in order to impose environmental/climate agenda goals. In his recent article in The Hill, Cohen covers lawsuits from other states, generally Republican-led ones, to stop the policy-making-by-proxy. For more information: https://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/4698645-red-state-ags-sue-blue-states-for-trying-to-impose-climate-extremism-everywhere/

Patricia Kelmer from the Public Interest Research Group discusses a proposal to change how your credit score is compiled. Under a plan from the Consumer Financia Protection Bureau, medical debt would generally not affect credit scores in the US. Kelmer explains why PIRG supports the idea and responds to pushback against it. For more information: https://pirg.org/edfund/media-center/statement-cfpb-proposes-to-erase-medical-debt-from-credit-reports/

Host Mike Ferguson comments on the recent verdicts convicting both Donald Trump and Hunter Biden. The commentary looks at the politics of the cases, the trend of using the justice system for political gain and the pollible outcomes if both sides continue the tactic.

Demian Brady from the National Taxpayers Union provides details on the apparent lag the IRS is experiencing when it comes to hiring the 87,000 new agents funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. So far, the agency is falling short of their recruiting goals. Brady discusses the logistics, politics, and realities of the situation. For more information: https://www.ntu.org/foundation/detail/qualified-applicants-arent-jumping-to-work-for-the-irs

NumbersUSA's Eric Ruark assesses the recent Biden Administration Executive Order that the White House says will curtail illegal immigration at the US Southern Border. The discussion also includes an update on the long-running political battle over the issue. For more information: NumbersUSA.com

Washington Stand writer Suzanne Bowdy discusses her recent article on the fact that fewer big-league sports teams are promoting Pride Month events ans statements. This, of course, comes after customer backlashes against Bud Light, Target, and other businesses that created controversies related to LGBT promotions. For more information: https://washingtonstand.com/commentary/major-sports-leagues-dump-pride-as-biden-fights-to-fill-the-void

Liberty Justice Center attorney Reilly Stephens explains why they are suing to stop a surveillance system in Illinois that is placing cameras along the highways around the state. The discussion includes reasons what happens with this lawsuit could affect other parts of the country. This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis. For more information: https://libertyjusticecenter.org/pressrelease/liberty-justice-center-lawsuit-challenges-illinois-highway-cameras-mass-surveillance-scheme/

The American Conservative columnist James Pinkerton discusses his recent article on the possibility of the Biden Administration allowing refugees from the Gaza region to come to the US amid the was between Hamas and Israel. For more information: https://www.theamericanconservative.com/coming-to-america-what-if-that-gaza-pier-is-a-two-way-street/

Among the great writers and philosophers in America's conservative movement is Russell Kirk (1918-1994). Now, the center that bears his name is launching a School Of Conservative Studies. In this discussion, the Russell Kirk Center's Jeffrey Nelson explains why the Center built the project, why they believe it's needed, and what they hope to accomplish with it. For more information: https://kirkcenter.org/scs/

For hundreds of thousands of families, competitive travel sports teams are a goal, expense, and emotional pressure-cooker all at the same time. In a recent article, Dr Anthony Bradley observes that the environment could be counterproductive to the goals parents may have when it comes to life lessons. In this discussion, Bradley explains how he came to that conclusion and what he recomments as a better approach. For more information: https://anthonybbradley.substack.com/p/chasing-perfection-how-youth-sports

RedState's Brandon Morse assesses the 2024 presidential race from the perspective of the "other" candidates. Arguably the largest third party in the country is the Libertarian Party. As Morse explains, the LP (and other third parties) could be competitive and effective for their cause but remains irrelevant. For more information: https://redstate.com/brandon_morse/2024/05/27/if-the-libertarian-party-was-libertarian-it-would-win-elections-n2174723#google_vignette

Michigan State University law professor Adam Candeub assesses the recent Supreme Court unanimous ruling in the NRA vs Vullo case. While the National Rifle Association was the plaintiff in the case, it was not about guns or the Second Amendment directly. It was more about First Amendment rights and whether government officials can use their positions to pressure businesses into conducting business (or not) in a specific way. Form more information about Prof Candeub: https://www.law.msu.edu/faculty_staff/profile.php?prof=370 For more information about the case: https://www.scotusblog.com/2024/05/supreme-court-rules-for-nra-in-first-amendment-dispute/

A controversial article in the Washington Times challenges the conventioonal thinking many people have when it comes to supporting children when they struggle emotionally. Dr. Everett Piper argues that parents are turning to therapists too quickly, too early, and often needlessly when they (the parents) should be the ones leading their children, especially when there are struggles. He discusses the article and his reasons for challenging the common narrative about therapy in this discussion. For more information: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/apr/10/everett-piper-is-asked-whether-parents-should-be-s/#:~:text=The%20answer%20is%20no%21%20The%20current%20trend%20of,to%20help%20children%20with%20everyday%20challenges%20is%20unhealthy.

A recent survey from Bankrate.com shows how many Americans do not feel like they are successful when it comes to personal finances and financial goals. What might surprise some is the percentage who say they don't think they can achieve financial success in the years ahead. Bankrate's Sarah Foster analyzes the results of the survey and offers advice. For more information: https://www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/financial-success-survey/

NewsMax TV host Carl Higbie discusses his book, Profiles In Freedom. The book profiles the stories of 19 people Higbie says exemplifies some of the best characteristics of America. This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis For more information: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?linkCode=kpd&ref_=k4w_oembed_CwfzumCoi1csey&asin=1630062286&tag=newstalkstl0f-20&amazonDeviceType=A2CLFWBIMVSE9N&from=Bookcard&preview=newtab&reshareId=8S6YZRJ5HF5VPM9C2ZDF&reshareChannel=system

The FDA has formally started the process to reschedule cannabis/marijuana into a different classification that moves away from complete criminalization. In this discussion, the R Street Institute's Jillian Snider explains why that first step matters, why she feels there are more changes needed to federal policy on the substance, and what should come next. For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/cannabis-rescheduling-winning-the-battle-but-not-the-war/

Institute for Justice Attorney Ari Bargil explains the goals of their new Zoning Justice project, which is based on the concept of protecting (or winning) property owners' rights to use their property as they see fit. In many communities, Bargil says overreaching regulations violate those rights. For more information: https://ij.org/issues/zoning-justice/

Forbes technology writer Gene Marks, in a recent article, assesses the evolution of artificial intelligence in America's marketplace. A recent survey of small businesses shows that the majority of business owners plan to invest more in AI in the coming year. Marks says this isn't a "job replacement" that will get rid of employees; it's a "job enhancement" development that will help small businesses compete with bigger ones. For more information: https://www.genemarkstech.com/

Ryan Young from the Competitive Enterprise Institute reacts to President Biden's announcement of tariffs on some specific Chinese products. The policy is similar to those of the Trump Administration (and now the Trump campaign). Young argues that tariffs raise the cost of living for American consumers and not harm Chinese business and poltiical interests. * This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis

(Air date May 19th, 2024) First Liberty attorney Hiram Sasser describes a situation happening (at the time of broadcast) that displaced a pro-Israel conference with only a few days' notice. The hosting hotel and conference center in Nashville, TN abruptly cancelled the event, claiming it was for safety reasons. The hotel had received complaints from pro-Palestinian activists over its doing business with the Christian conference organizers. Sasser also explains the legal ramification and possible precedents of this kind of business decision. * Note: Dave Ramsay offered to host the event at his business headquarters and the event took place as scheduled, although with additional expenses and logistical challenges.

Amid a spike in antisemitic violence on campuses around the country (May 2024), the Biden Administration tries to balance addressing the needs of US ally Israel and a growing anti-Israel sentiment on the Left in the US. In this discussion, Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL) assesses the situations on campuses, in the Middle East, and in the halls of Congress. This conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis

Jeffrey Tucker from the Brownstone Institute explains the censorship that he says happened (and still does) regarding the sale of books. In a fashion similar to the social media suppression of news articles and dissenting opinions, Tucker says online book sellers are either willingly supressing the marketing of books that dissent from narratives preferred by the government or are doing so under pressure from government officials. For more information: https://brownstone.org/articles/book-burning-goes-digital/

Joel Shultz from the National Police Association discusses his recent op-ed, "Less Lethal Options Can Save Lives", which focuses on the lethality of weapons officers should have while on the job. He also addresses the factors that affect the level of force needed in dangerous situations and what the public needs to understand about those cases. For more information: https://nationalpolice.org/main/less-lethal-options-can-save-lives/

Numbers USA's Eric Ruark assesses and reacts to the announcement that the Biden Administration is developing a plan to bring refugees from Gaza/Palestine into the United States. He discusses the politics and the national security aspects of the debate. This discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis.

What's oikophobia and is it spreading on college campuses around the country? As criminologist and former sheriff Dr Currie Myers explains, it's a loathing of your home and culture. To answer the second question; it seems like there's a spread of it going around these days. The symptoms may include fighting with police, wearing masks to hide identity, chanting anti-US and anti-Israeli slogans, trespassing, blocking streets, and property damage. The cure is more fundamental and more complicated. Some of the solution lies in the foundations built into young people's lives. Dr. Myers discusses that in this segment. For more information: https://drcurriemyers.substack.com/p/oikophobia-and-its-detrimental-impact

Elections should be about the confidence we have in candidates, be they incumbents or challengers. Increasingly, elections sre becoming about the confidence (or lack of) we have in the process of voting. Often, those on the Left say the Right is suppressing voter turnout and disenfranchising people. At the same time, many on the Right accuse the Left of electoral fraud. Is either claim true? Are both claims true? In this discussion, Daily Signal reporter Fred Lucas discusses the faith we have - and could be losing - in our elections process. His new book. The Myth Of Voter Suppression, digs into the debate. Find the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Voter-Suppression-Assault-Elections/dp/1637587856 For more information: https://www.heritage.org/myth-voter-suppression#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20Myth%20of%20Voter%20Suppression,voter%20suppression%20hysteria%20industrial%20complex.

Americans for Limited Government's Rick Manning comments on the Biden reelection campaign using Vice President Kamala Harris as a spokesperson to promote the Administration's economic plan and results. Manning points out that, specifically, the campaign is trying to increase support among black male voters. For more information: https://dailytorch.com/2024/04/not-even-kamala-harris-can-sell-the-biden-economy-to-voters-ignores-inflation-concerns-we-are-in-the-process-of-putting-a-lot-of-money-in-the-streets-of-america/ This interview originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis

The recently-passed law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok will certainly be litigated for months, if not years. Supporters say it's important national security in an age where the digital world can be a battlefield along with the physical world. What are the costs? In this discussion, James Broughel from the Competitive Enterprise Institute argues that the government's trying to take control will have an effect that's bigger than the current social media landscape. In a recent Forbes article, he argues the precedent could land a "...blow to intellectual discource online." In this discussion, he talks about the law, the effect on freedom of speech, and the possibility of limiting discourse in the name of national security. For more information: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesbroughel/2024/04/30/tiktok-ban-lands-a-blow-to-intellectual-discourse-online/?sh=740c75ae168b

From random assaults on women in broad daylight to AI-generated scams online and over the phone, the threats to us physically and financially continue to evolve. Former NYPD Officer Dean Golemis, now the president of Global Security And Investigative Services, describes today's threats and offers advice on how to reduce your chance of being a victim.

Could one state's strict environmental laws affect the entire nation's economy - and your household finances? According to Dr Bonner Cohen from the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (CFSCT), the answer is yes.In this discussion, he explains how California's effort to mandate electric freight trains in the state could result in supply chain disruptions across the nation, especially if other states follow suit. For more information: https://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/4549111-us-freight-rail-supply-chain-now-at-the-mercy-of-californias-net-zero-emissions-rule/

Calling something "election interference" is all the rage right now, but is there merit to the claim when someone controls what you're allowed to see and hear, at least in part of your life? That's the argument the Media Research Center's Dan Schneider is making when discussing a new report that shows social media and big tech companies suppressed posts and search results that promoted conservative (or Republican) messages during the 2020 campaign. * this conversation originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St Louis

American Spectator writer Nate Hochman discusses his recent article on the conflict within and focused on NPR after a long-time reporter admits (in an article) that they have lost the trust of many listeners because of their overt bias. The discussion also covers the effect of most media picking a side (politically, culturally, or both) and reporting from that perspective. Most of the time in the US, that means information is filtered through a leftist lens. For mor information: https://spectator.org/its-bigger-than-nprs-katherine-maher/

It's not a new concept, per se, in America but there's a new look to microschooling right now - and the number of families using the approach is growing. In this discussion, the National Microschooling Center's Don Soifer explains what microschooling is, what it offers, and why people of different perspectives are implementing it to education their children. For more information: https://microschoolingcenter.org/

Before being released, one teachers' union leader called for this book to be burned. In this discussion, Corey DeAngelis, discusses the book and why the education establishment won't like it. DeAngelis, America's premier advocate for school choice, details the purpose of his bew book, The Parent Revolution, the momentum the education freedom movement has right now, and why the debate is far from settled around the country. For more information: https://www.amazon.com/Parent-Revolution-Rescuing-Radicals-Ruining/dp/1546006869

The Biden Administration, through the ATF and DOJ, recently announced new regulations on buying and selling guns. Opponents argue that could result in just about anyone who owns a gun could become a felon just by selling their private property. Chriss Dorr from the American Firearms Association explains the new regulations - which are not laws passed by Congress - and how it could affect gun owners.

Former Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) discusses the work she's now doing on the advisory board of Christians Engaged. The group is asking Christians to "pray, vote, and engage" in the political and cultural debates. For more information: ChristiansEngaged.org

Roy Beck, founder of Numbers USA and author of Back Of The Hiring Line, responds to the recent unemployment and workforce participation reports by comparing them will the nnumbers tracking immigration - especially illegal immigration - into the US. Beck says the economic impact disproportionally affects black and other minority workers.

Taxpayer Protection Alliance President David Williams laments the amound of taxation to which Americans are subjected each year. Worse: the IRS is among the federal agencies that have been weaponized against citizens who have spoken up against those in power over the last several years. WIlliams also discusses the debate over extending tax cuts that are scheduled to expire this year.

Among the recent evolutions in the marketplace is, obviously, the gig economy. From ride shares to delivery services to home repairs, there's a gig app for a variety of services. That's allowed workers to take on side jobs, replace lost jobs, or make extra money in retirement. For regulators and lawmakers, though, it's also looked at as a reason to impose rules on the businesses that run the platforms. The R Street Institute's Jarrett Dieterle argues against a heavy regulation approach to the emerging gig economy in this discussion, which originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis. For more information: https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/counterpoint-when-it-comes-to-the-gig-economy-the-only-thing-to-fear-is-fear-itself/

Job Creators Network President Elaine Parker responds to President Biden's latest effort to erase student loan debt. In this discussion, she assesses the new plan from the Administration, how it relates to the US Supreme Court's ruling against the previous orders to forgive the debts, and how both the system and the Academy need reforms.

Looking for your next job could lead you right into a scam. In this discussion, LinkedIn's Francisco Tobon describes some of the online scams targeting job seekers and how sophisticated the dangers are at this point. He also offers advice on keeping your personal identity and financial information safe during the online job search process and describes some of the tools available to help/

"Decarbonization is a political agenda". That's how the American Energy Institute's Jason Issac assesses the push for more renewable energy mandates and smart grid implementation. Among the consequences of that, he says, is an increase in the cost of energy for all Americans and the possibility of more energy shortages. For more information: https://americanenergyinstitute.com/

Alex Nestor, Investigative Fellow for Parents Defending Education, discusses her recent report for the Washington Examiner. Her piece says the Chinese Communist Party, through partnerships with schools in the US, is influencing education and students here. * this discussion originally aired on NewsTalk STL in St. Louis For more information: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/2942388/the-ccps-influence-is-seeping-into-us-schools/

After high-profile news stories of squatters taking over homes in New York and California, as well as the now-infamous social media video of an illegal immigrant influencer using TikTok to encourage other illegal migrants to "invade" properties using squatters' rights loopholes, some states are working to change their laws. In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis led the effort to change squatting from a civil to a criminal matter and, now, police can remove and arrest the intruders on the spot. Other states are following Florida's lead. In tnhis discussion, Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Mark Miller assesses the laws in question, explains why property rights matter in the legal system, and the difference between squatting and "adverse possession", which he argues should still be allowed in rare and specific circumstances.