David Wheeler introduces a trio of independent candidates shaking up the 2026 U.S. Senate races, highlighting their commitment to reforming a political landscape dominated by party machines. Ty Pinkins, a Mississippi veteran, emphasizes the urgent need for independence in Washington to address issues that matter to everyday Americans, while Brian Bengs from South Dakota shares his journey from the Democratic Party to an independent run, focused on fiscal responsibility and accountability. Todd Achilles from Idaho rounds out the group, critiquing the failures of both parties to represent the interests of their constituents. They all unite in their goal to expose the corruption within the political system and advocate for a government that truly represents the people. As they gear up for their campaigns, they invite listeners to join their movement for a more honest and effective government.

A compelling discussion unfolds as David Wheeler introduces a trio of independent candidates shaking up the 2026 U.S. Senate races. Each candidate—Ty Pinkins from Mississippi, Brian Bengs from South Dakota, and Todd Achilles from Idaho—brings a unique background and perspective to the table. They share a common frustration with the existing two-party system, which they argue has led to a gridlocked Washington that fails to address the pressing needs of American citizens. Ty, a decorated Army veteran, emphasizes the importance of fighting for working families against corporate greed, while Brian highlights his military precision in exposing the financial mismanagement of both parties. Todd, a former Democratic state representative, passionately calls out the bipartisan failures that have left rural communities struggling. The conversation dives deep into the candidates’ motivations, their visions for reform, and the dire need for a more accountable political landscape. They stress the importance of independent voices in governance, arguing that only by breaking free from party loyalties can they truly represent the interests of their constituents. With a mix of humor and seriousness, they articulate their commitment to serving the people and the challenges they face in fundraising as independents in a system dominated by party politics. The episode closes with each candidate sharing their campaign details, urging listeners to support their efforts to bring real change to Washington, D.C.

Takeaways:

* In this episode, David Wheeler highlights the rise of independent candidates who are shaking up the traditional U.S. Senate races, aiming to break the two-party hold on American politics.

* Ty Pinkins, a veteran and candidate from Mississippi, shares his commitment to fighting for working families and challenging the status quo of political gridlock.

* Brian Bengs, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in government, calling for a reform of the current political system.

* Todd Achilles, running in Idaho, critiques the failure of both major parties to address key issues like the national debt and public health, advocating for independent representation.

* The panel discusses the need for independence in politics to push forward issues that truly matter to the American people, focusing on healthcare and economic reform.

* The episode underscores the urgency for voters to consider independent candidates as viable alternatives to the entrenched political system that often neglects their needs.

Links referenced in this episode:

* typinkins.com

* bengsforsouthdakota.com

* achilles4idaho.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* Muck You!

* American Muckrakers

* Musk’s Doge

Summary created using Captivate.fm AI feature but edited in full by American Muckrakers.

Moe Davis and David Wheeler dive deep into the pressing political landscape of Florida in a lively discussion with guest Joey Mendoza Atkins, a spirited attorney and Senate candidate. They kick things off with a light-hearted jab about the political climate, but soon delve into the serious challenges facing their state. Joey shares his motivations for running, driven by a genuine fear for the future of the country and a desire to bring fresh perspectives to the table. The conversation flows from the importance of engaging with young voters to the stark realities of a shifting political narrative, all while maintaining a tone that balances urgency with humor. As they navigate the complexities of current elections, both Moe and Joey emphasize the need for authentic representation and the power of grassroots movements, rallying listeners to join in the fight for change.

Takeaways:

* Joey Mendoza Atkins, running for Senate in Florida, emphasizes the need for authentic leadership during challenging political times.

* The podcast highlights the importance of being proactive in engaging with voters and addressing their concerns effectively.

* Joey discusses his experiences and frustrations as a Dolphins fan, paralleling them with the need for resilience in politics.

* The episode delves into how the Democratic Party can revamp its image and approach to connect better with working-class voters.

* The conversation stresses the urgency for Democrats to win elections by addressing real-world issues affecting everyday Americans.

* Joey expresses a strong commitment to making a positive impact and combating political complacency for future generations.

Links referenced in this episode:

* joeyforflorida.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* Muck U

* Ashley Moody

* Marco Rubio

* Ron DeSantis

* American Bridge

* Madison Cawthorn

* Mario Diaz-Balart

* Tom Tillis

* Mark Meadows

* Dolphins

* Carolina Panthers

* Florida

* Airbnb

* Western Carolina University

* Cocoa Beach

* Guantanamo Bay

Summary created using Captivate AI technology.

Colonel Moe Davis and David Wheeler engage in a lively discussion with Miles Taylor, a notable figure from the Trump administration who became famous for his anonymous New York Times op-ed entitled “I Am Part of the Resistance.” Taylor, who served as a senior advisor and chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security, shares his insights on the alarming trends in American politics, particularly focusing on the potential implications of a second Trump administration. As they navigate through Taylor’s experiences and the ongoing threats to democracy, the conversation highlights the importance of standing up against autocratic tendencies and the harsh realities faced by dissenters. The trio shares a mix of humor and serious reflection, emphasizing the need for accountability and the courage to speak out against injustices—no matter the personal cost. With Taylor’s recent book, “Blowback: A Warning to Save Democracy from Trump’s Revenge,” they underscore the critical moment America is in, urging listeners to remain vigilant and active in the preservation of democratic values.

In a riveting episode of their podcast, Colonel Moe Davis and David Wheeler sit down with Miles Taylor, a former government official known for his outspoken criticism of the Trump administration. The conversation opens with playful banter about relationships, setting a lighthearted tone before transitioning into a serious examination of the current political climate. Taylor shares his journey from being a key player in the Trump administration to becoming a vocal critic, particularly after his anonymous New York Times op-ed revealed his concerns about the administration’s authoritarian tendencies.

Throughout the episode, the trio discusses the alarming normalization of political retribution and the chilling effect it has on dissenters within the Republican Party. Taylor offers a candid look at how fear has gripped many lawmakers, leading them to abandon long-held values in favor of loyalty to Trump. He highlights the hypocrisy of individuals who once championed justice but now turn a blind eye to the administration’s abuses of power. The conversation is punctuated with humor and camaraderie, making the heavy topics more accessible while underscoring the seriousness of their implications.

As the discussion deepens, Taylor reflects on the personal toll of being a whistleblower, recounting experiences of threats and isolation. He emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustice, encouraging listeners to engage actively in the democratic process. The episode concludes with a poignant reminder of the stakes involved in safeguarding democracy, leaving audiences with both motivation and a sense of urgency to take action in their own communities.

Takeaways:

* Colonel Moe Davis emphasizes the importance of fighting against authoritarianism and protecting democracy, especially in the face of potential Trump re-election.

* Miles Taylor discusses the chilling effect of political persecution and how it silences dissenting voices, reflecting on his own experiences with threats and intimidation.

* The podcast highlights the hypocrisy within the Republican Party, showcasing how loyalty to Trump often overrides long-held conservative values and principles.

* Listeners are encouraged to support efforts to push back against the erosion of democratic norms, as both hosts and their guest stress the importance of collective resistance.

Links referenced in this episode:

* msnbc.com

* substack.com

* treason.substack.com

* newyorktimes.com

* americanmuckrakers.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* msnbc

* New York Times

* DHS

* Lincoln Project

* Google

* Substack

* Forward Party

* Andrew Yang

Moe Davis and David Wheeler engage in a compelling discussion with Mike Madrid, co-founder of the Lincoln Project, who offers keen insights into the current political landscape. Madrid, a former lifelong Republican, shares his journey of disillusionment with the party, emphasizing the dangers of hyper-partisanship and the rise of populist nationalism. He discusses the shifting dynamics of Latino voters, noting their increasing rejection of both major parties while searching for a viable political identity. The conversation delves into the role of institutions in America, the impact of the digital age on public trust, and the necessity for a transformative vision within the Democratic Party. As they navigate these pressing issues, Davis and Wheeler highlight the importance of grassroots movements and the potential for change in an increasingly polarized environment.

Pam Hemphill returns to Muck You! to share her transformative journey from January 6 participant to advocate for democracy. She discusses her emotional experience receiving a letter from former Vice President Mike Pence, who expressed admiration for her decision to accept responsibility for her actions. The conversation dives into the current political climate, especially in Portland, where Pam describes the protests against ICE and the camaraderie among demonstrators, including surprising encounters with fellow citizens from various professions. With humor and candor, she reflects on the absurdities of political rhetoric and the resilience of those standing up against tyranny. Throughout the episode, her unwavering belief in the power of democracy shines, as she encourages listeners to keep fighting for their rights and to approach upcoming protests with courage and solidarity.

Takeaways:

* Pam Hemphill shares her transformative journey from being a supporter to a critic of Trump, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the truth about democracy.

* The Woolly Worm Festival weekend in Beech Mountain, North Carolina, serves as a backdrop for a lively discussion about local culture and activism.

* Pam recounts receiving a heartfelt letter from Mike Pence, which reignited her spirit and commitment to stand against oppression and for democracy.

* The conversation touches on the ongoing protests in Portland, with Pam emphasizing the peaceful nature of the protests despite media portrayals of violence.

* Moe Davis and Pam discuss the impact of misinformation and the importance of staying informed to combat the narratives pushed by extremist groups.

* The episode concludes with a call to action for citizens to remain vigilant and active in defending democracy, no matter the circumstances.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* Mike Pence

* Trump

* Antifa

* ICE

* Project 2025

* Pam Bondi

* MAGA

* Robbie Roadsteamer

David Wheeler and Colonel Moe Davis welcome their guest, Lt. Col. Brian Bengs, a retired Air Force JAG officer and independent candidate for the U.S. Senate from South Dakota. Brian shares his motivations for running again after a tough first campaign, emphasizing the need for regular people to have a voice in a political landscape dominated by big money and party loyalty. He discusses the challenges faced by independents in a system designed to favor Republicans and Democrats, highlighting the importance of addressing issues like healthcare and the influence of billionaires on politics. Throughout their lively conversation, the trio underscores a shared commitment to representing the interests of everyday citizens over corporate interests, while also reflecting on the current state of U.S. politics and the stark divide between the rich and the rest. With humor and camaraderie, they explore what it means to be an independent in today’s political climate, pushing for a return to fundamental values of honesty and community care.

In this engaging episode of Muck You, David Wheeler and Colonel Moe Davis sit down with Lieutenant Colonel Brian Bengs, an independent Senate candidate from South Dakota. The conversation kicks off with a humorous banter about personal backgrounds and the quirks of small-town life, quickly transitioning into a serious discussion about the current political climate. Brian elaborates on his previous run for office and the challenges he faced as an independent candidate, particularly in a polarized environment where party loyalty often supersedes substantive dialogue about policies. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight the disconnect between political parties and the concerns of ordinary voters, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues like healthcare and economic inequality. The dialogue also touches on the broader implications of big money in politics, with Brian arguing that the system is rigged to favor the wealthy while sidelining the majority. His candid reflections and insights into the motivations behind his campaign resonate deeply, offering listeners a glimpse into the struggles and aspirations of those who dare to challenge the political establishment. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to support independent candidates who prioritize the welfare of their constituents over party allegiances.

Takeaways:

* In the podcast, Brian Bengs discusses his motivations for running as an independent in South Dakota, emphasizing the need for authentic representation beyond party affiliations.

* He highlights the challenges independents face in elections, particularly around ballot access and fundraising compared to established party candidates.

* The conversation touches on the common ground between voters, noting that many agree on critical issues like healthcare and taxation, which transcend party lines.

* Both Brian and Mo share their experiences with voters who disengage simply based on party labels, illustrating the polarized nature of current politics.

* They discuss how big money influences politics, arguing that both parties often ignore the needs of regular people in favor of wealthy donors.

* The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to support independent candidates who prioritize the concerns of everyday citizens over partisan politics.

Links referenced in this episode:

* bengsforsouthdakota.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* Doge

* Elon Musk

* John Thune

* Mike Rounds

* Julian Boudouan

* Dan Osborne

* Todd Achilles

* Ty Pinkins

* Lost Cabin Brewing

David Wheeler and Colonel Moe Davis welcome guests James and Cathy O’Gara, who recently found themselves at the center of a controversial incident involving law enforcement. The episode dives into the alarming events that unfolded when police officers showed up at the O’Gara’s home following James’ decision to send a postcard to Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Blaise Ingoglia, expressing his discontent. This visit, which James and Kathy describe as intimidating, raises serious questions about civil rights and the extent to which individuals can exercise their freedom of speech without fear of repercussion. Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the impact of this experience on their family, particularly its effect on their grandchildren, and emphasize the importance of standing up against such intimidation tactics. As they share their story, they inspire listeners to take action, urging them to assert their rights and engage in civic discourse, all while maintaining a sense of humor amidst the serious nature of their situation.

In the picturesque backdrop of western North Carolina, David Wheeler and Colonel Mo Davis engage in a riveting conversation with guests James and Cathy O’Gara, who share a deeply unsettling experience involving law enforcement and their exercise of First Amendment rights. The discussion unfolds as the Ogara couple recounts the harrowing day when police officers knocked on their door, seeking to question James about a postcard he had sent to Florida’s CFO, Blaise Ingoglia. The postcard, which simply stated that the CFO ‘lacked values,’ led to what appeared to be an intimidation tactic, with multiple police officers dispatched to their home. As they narrate the events, the couple reflects on the implications of their experience on civil rights and the ongoing climate of fear surrounding political dissent in America. The episode delves into themes of free speech, governmental overreach, and the personal repercussions of standing up for one’s beliefs, making it a poignant reminder of the importance of civic engagement and the risks associated with it.

Takeaways:

* David and Colonel Moe kick off the episode from the scenic backdrop of western North Carolina, setting a friendly and inviting tone for their listeners.

* Their guests, James and Cathy O’Gara, discuss how a simple postcard led to a surprising police visit, raising questions about civil rights and free speech.

* The conversation humorously touches on the absurdity of police presence at their home over a postcard, with James reflecting on how it felt more like a scene from an action movie than a civil rights issue.

* Kathy shares how the police interaction affected their grandchildren, showcasing the emotional impact of civic engagement on family dynamics and the importance of protecting their rights.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

* Muck You!

* Blaise Ingoglia

* Florida Department of Financial Services

Links referenced in this episode:

* AmericanMuckrakers.com

* Florida CFO