Symbolic gesture will hurt St Paul taxpayers

St Paul Mayor Melvin Carter attempted to save his job by politicizing the August shooting at Minneapolis's Annunciation Catholic School shooting. Given his prospects of reelection were looking far from certain, he figured why not thumb his nose at state law by proposing an ordinance to ban certain firearms and accessories within his city? Maybe this self-anointed courage would inspire St Paul voters to elect him to another term?

Alas, this proposal wasn't enough to save Carter's job as he lost his reelection bid to Kaohly Her last week. Nevertheless, the St Paul City Council followed through on Carter's pledge. 

The St. Paul City Council unanimously approved an ordinance regulating firearms Wednesday, saying they want to be ready to put it in place if state law changes.

Minutes after, the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus filed a lawsuit against the city, as the group had said it would if the ordinance was enacted.

Last month, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and suburban mayors called again on the state to repeal a preemption law that bars cities and counties from regulating firearms, ammunition or their components.

Ah, but no such repeal was ever enacted. So as promised, there will be lawyers, for which the residents of St Paul will be on the hook for the cost of defending against this lawsuit.

Bryan Strawser, chair of the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, said in a Wednesday statement after the lawsuit was served on the city: “This illegal ordinance will immediately have a chilling effect on peaceable gun owners in our capital city.

“It’s unfortunate that the City Council and Mayor have chosen to waste taxpayer dollars defending a performative ordinance that clearly violates state law,” he continued.

Say, you know else acknowledged this waste of taxpayer dollars? Why, that would be now Mayor-elect Her, who last month called out Mayor Carter on this toothless ordinance. 

🧵1/ Rep. Kaohly Her just torched Mayor Melvin Carter at a Mayoral forum for burning taxpayer dollars on performative, doomed-to-fail ordinances 🧨

"That's super performative"

“Don’t create new fights that will generate a ton of costs for city residents.”

Translation? 👇

2/… pic.twitter.com/cOf7YFHvQ1

— MN Gun Owners Caucus (@mnguncaucus) October 24, 2025

Enjoy Mayor Carter's parting gift, St. Paulites. 

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Progs lose a bloody shirt

Earlier this year, I had written about how a family member overheard their leftist workers lamenting the U.S. Supreme Court looking to overturn the legality of same-sex marriage. I had literally heard nothing about this, so I decided to put forth some research. As I dug further, I learned that there were toothless state legislative resolutions desiring to make such a union illegal, but little else. OK, much ado about nothing. 

Later on there was a petition to SCOTUS requesting them to hear a case to overturn the 2015 landmark ruling Obergefell v. Hodges, which essentially legalized gay marriage nationwide. Once again, there was gnashing of teeth among leftists fearing the "MAGA court" would fulfill President Donald Trump's desires to take rights away. As an aside, what a damning indictment on our education system that so many Americans don't realize that petitioning a court does not mean an actual case is being heard.

But I digress. 

On Monday, SCOTUS officially responded to the aforementioned petition. 

The Supreme Court has turned down a bid to have the justices revisit the court’s landmark decision a decade ago that guaranteed the right to same-sex marriage nationwide.

The high court on Monday turned down a petition from Kim Davis, a former county clerk in Kentucky who objected on religious grounds to issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Davis urged the court to use a lawsuit against her as a vehicle to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage in all states.

No justice noted any dissent or released any opinion as the court rejected Davis’ case in a routine order list.

Back in August, conservative commentator Guy Benson (himself a gay man) was spot on as to how this faux controversy would conclude.  

I called it. With social media blowing up & doomy headlines blaring, I received a lot of pushback/grief for rationally rejecting the panic p*rn. But I was right. For those who bought into the fear, it’s important to remember who was misleading & misinforming you — and who wasn’t: pic.twitter.com/n2ENvFtbWC

— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) November 10, 2025

The left started with a conclusion that Trump is a fascist, so they had to generate narratives (no matter how far fetched) which validated that belief. Hence the ginning up of a (as Guy so eloquently put it) "moral panic" over an issue which has been long settled. 

The problem with this type of fear mongering is it puts lives in peril given there are leftists literally willing to kill those who they believe are a threat to the prog orthodoxy. So not only was this latest panic p0rn completely baseless, it was downright irresponsible and dangerous. 

Oh well, on to the next existential crisis. 

----------------------------------------------

Schumer shutdown shuttered

Democrats over the past six weeks: We will not vote to re-open the government until there's a renewal of the ACA subsidies that expired. 

Republicans: 

The Democrats openly bragged about how working people struggling was something they could use as leverage to get what they want. But in the end, the suffering was starting to hurt Dems politically, so they were left with no choice but to relent. 

The Senate passed legislation Monday night to end the longest government shutdown in history after a splinter group of Democrats joined Republicans to break the gridlock.

The legislation, which passed 60-40, would fund the government through January 30 and provide funding for some government agencies through the end of the fiscal year. The House is expected to take up the legislation as soon as Wednesday.

Senate Democrats opted to shut the government down 41 days ago, refusing to back a House-passed continuing resolution and demanding instead that Republicans agree to extend Obamacare subsidies that are set to expire at the end of the year as part of any government funding bill.

Eight Senate Democrats ultimately chose to break ranks after concluding that Republicans intended to stand their ground as government services stalled and air travel degenerated with the holidays fast approaching.

“We had no path forward on health care because the Republicans said, ‘We will not talk about health care with the government shut down,’” said Senator Tim Kaine (D., Va.). “And we had SNAP beneficiaries and those relying on other important services who were losing benefits because of the shutdown.”

Kaine was joined by fellow Democratic Senators Dick Durbin, Maggie Hassan, Jeanne Shaheen, Jacky Rosen, Catherine Cortez Masto, John Fetterman and Angus King. Senator Rand Paul was the lone Republican to vote against the bill.

Since Durbin is not seeking reelection when his current term is up next year, he felt he could say what many of us already knew but his Dem colleagues didn't have the intestinal fortitude to convey.  

BREAKING: Senator Durbin just ADMITTED the democrat radical base wanted to STARVE kids & SCREW workers just to own Trump.

PATHETIC!

“Many of my friends are unhappy. They think we should have kept our government closed indefinitely to protest the policies of the Trump… pic.twitter.com/05WaADt56E

— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) November 10, 2025

While I'm grateful the GOP stood firm in neither eliminating the filibuster nor agreeing to expand ACA subsidies, I am concerned they don't have much of a coherent economic message going forward. The fact of the matter is there is an affordability crisis in this country where millennials and Gen Z are drowning in student loan debt while also not being able to afford a home of their own. You can argue all you want that Republicans aren't ultimately responsible for those traits, but the fact of the matter is they're the party in power now. They'll ultimately pay the price if by this time next year Americans are still struggling financially. 

In their election 2024 campaigns, President Joe Biden (then later POTUS candidate Kamala Harris) and Congressional Democrats gaslit the public by insisting they not believe their lying eyes when it came to the steadily rising cost of everyday goods. I do not recommend this strategy for the GOP if they want to avoid a bloodbath in the 2026 midterms. 

It's not too late to broach legislation to make life more affordable, but time is definitely short. 

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Life imitates art

While attending Sunday's Detroit Lions-Washington Redskins Commanders game in D.C., President Donald Trump visited the FOX NFL duo broadcasting the game. Just for fun, Trump was asked if he wanted to do a little play-by-play during the series. 

His performance was......interesting. 

.@POTUS does a little on-air play-by-play during the @Commanders-@Lions game 🤣 pic.twitter.com/P9LLeLQNLZ

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) November 9, 2025

What's hilarious is this pretty much how comedian Shane Gillis depicted how Trump talked football. 

From this past July: 

Nailed it!

--------------------------------------------

A trend is a trend.

In the thirty seasons the Baltimore Ravens have been an NFL franchise, they have squared off against my Minnesota Vikings 8 times, including this past Sunday. With Sunday's loss, the Vikes are now 3-5 all time vs. the Ravens. 

In the three seasons the Vikings have prevailed against Baltimore (1998, 2009 and 2017), they advanced to the NFC Championship Game that year. 

In the four years (prior to 2025) the Vikes have lost to the Ravens (2001, 2005, 2013, 2021), they fired their head coach either during or upon the conclusion of each of those seasons. 

I guess this is my way of saying.......Godspeed, Kevin O'Connell.* 

Hey, I don't make the rules. 

*OK, the Vikings aren't firing O'Connell. At least not before the 2026 season. But it's clear his honeymoon with many Vikings fans is over. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 11/9/2025

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What's up with what's going down?

Another Sunday, yet another edition of my radio The Closer. This afternoon's broadcast will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the the first hour, I'll discuss the election results for races in Minnesota. At 1:30, newly elected MN State Senator Michael Holmstrom (R - Buffalo) will join the broadcast to take a proverbial victory lap after his decisive win in the special election for SD 29. 

At 2:00, political wonk Matt Mackowiak will join the broadcast to discuss the results from Tuesday's off-year elections as well as the many ballot initiatives in his home state of Texas. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Nancy Pelosi - DINO?????

With former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announcing she will not seek reelection to Congress next year, the initial reaction from the right was one of celebration. And while it's true that no more Pelosi means no more enduring her smug, elitist persona, it's also incontrovertible that when a far left politician retires from representing a left wing area, their replacement will definitely not be more moderate. 

Sure, right wingers were enthusiastically waving goodbye to Pelosi. But that celebration should be tempered given who is the early favorite to replace San Fran Nan.

If you think men don’t belong in girls’ bathrooms, kids shouldn’t get irreversible sex changes, or cops should stop street prostitution of minors, Scott Wiener probably thinks you’re a bigot.

Indeed, it seems easy to offend Wiener, the San Francisco Democrat running for former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D.) seat — and anyone who holds mainstream or conventional views on biology, women’s or parents’ rights, or conservative governance frequently does.

Last month, Wiener found it “gross” that San Francisco women turned up at his annual Halloween event to protest his transgender policies. He called the late Charlie Kirk a “vile bigot” before and after the conservative activist was brutally, publicly murdered. Florida’s Republican governor, Ron DeSantis, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk are also “bigots,” and Republican diplomat Richard Grenell is a “self-hating gay man.”

The people he approves of are very different — like a gay porn-purveying drag queen from the anti-Catholic drag troupe Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, whom he honored on the California Senate floor as “one of the very best community leaders,” as well as San Francisco’s former soft-on-crime district attorney George Gascón, with whom he has collaborated on legislation. San Francisco’s Folsom Street Fair, a public nudity-and-group sex festival whose attendees are advised to watch out for men peeing on one another, is a “beautiful community” that Wiener is “proud to stand up for.”

This is yet further validation of my NARN colleague Mitch Berg's "Cano’s Corollary to Berg’s 21st Law." 

In Blue city (or in this case, Congressional District - ed.) electoral politics, “blue” never gets “lighter” or less “progressive”. There is only one electoral direction – more “progressive”. A symptom of this is when one sees people just barely to the left of a city’s Overton Window referring to the progressive politicians and institutions in power as “Conservatives” or “Republicans”.

Yep. Nancy Pelosi - milquetoast moderate. 

You knew this day wasn't far away when shortly after "The Squad" was elected 7 years ago, they and their ilk bombarded Pelosi's office to demand more serious proposals on "climate change." As we're witnessing, yesterday's fringe kook leftists are today's mainstream Democrats. 

-------------------------------------------------

Not surprising, but still sobering (UPDATE: Mayor Jacob Frey re-elected).

There was nothing on my ballot in Tuesday's off year elections, but I was still engaged on what was going on outside my bubble. 

A few bullet points: 

- The DFL kept their 34-33 majority in the MN Senate as the special elections in SD 29 (Monticello, Delano and Buffalo) and SD 47 (Woodbury, South Maplewood) remained in GOP and DFL hands, respectively. Neither was close as GOP candidate Michael Holmstrom and DFLer Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger emerged with 20+ point victories. 

- St Paul Mayor Melvin Carter was defeated in his reelection bid by Kaohly Her, which means the capitol city now has an all female city council and female mayor. This will be touted as one of the most diverse municipal leaderships in the country except in perhaps the most vital category - ideology. 

On the west side of the river, Mayor Jacob Frey is in the fight of his life against Omar Fateh. As of Wednesday morning, votes are still being tabulated (UPDATE: Frey re-elected). The City Council, of course, is all left of center, but there were four DFL candidates endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America --- and all four were victorious. As my friend Bill Glahn often says -- "Decline is a choice." And Minneapolis voters have clearly opted for that. 

- Speaking of choosing decline....

Tomorrow's cover: Zohran Mamdani wins 2025 NYC mayoral election https://t.co/HwAuNmCFtL pic.twitter.com/nshFKpcvLE

— New York Post (@nypost) November 5, 2025

Congrats to Mr. Mamdani for not only being elected Mayor of the Big Apple but also instantly becoming the top selling realtor for most of the southern states. 

- Not surprisingly, Dems prevailed in all the key statewide races in Virginia and New Jersey. The only mystery was if incumbent Virginia Atty General Jason Miyares could fend off his Democrat opponent Jay Jones. Yes, Jones was the one who three years ago fantasized about shooting dead the former GOP Speaker of the Virginia House. Nevertheless, he eked out a 2-point victory. I've seen a lot of scuttle among conservatives on Twitter which suggested not enough focus was on Jones' awful background and too much time eating our own (i.e. ripping Tucker Carlson for platforming a hate monger, rightly calling out the vile text messages of the Young Republicans, etc.). I'll be charitable and say you're woefully misguided if you believe that was a factor. The sad reality is only a minority of voters even believed Jones' text scandal was "disqualifying." 

NEW: Just 46% of VA voters thought that Virginia AG candidate Jay Jones' texts, in which he fantasized about murdering then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert and his kids, were disqualifying.

"We asked voters what best describes their opinion of those leaked texts..."

"Almost half… pic.twitter.com/JeerW3he5l

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 5, 2025

It also didn't help that the GOP candidate at the top of the ticket, gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears, was utterly inept. I don't know that any Republican gov candidate could have prevailed in that environment, but they certainly wouldn't have been as big a drag on down ballot races. 

- If you've followed politics over the past ten years, there's been one undeniable trend which has emerged. When Donald Trump is not on the ballot, GOP turnout is feeble. While Trump may endorse candidates and even campaign on their behalf, the fact of the matter is Republicans have become low propensity voters in the Trump era.  And since Trump will never again appear on a ballot, the party needs to make a definitive decision as to how to move forward, both in terms of its brand and turnout apparatus. 

The one incontrovertible truth which we can take away from Tuesday's results - it's still the economy, stupid. Erick Erickson provided a sobering reminder. 

Like it or not, inflation is growing faster than wages again. And yes, tariffs are playing a role, but not the only role. Republicans promised they’d lower grocery prices, and grocery prices are on the rise. It’s not a coincidence that coffee prices and banana prices are showing up repeatedly in stories about grocery prices going up. The President has placed a big tariff on the countries from which we get those things. Yes, Republicans, the economy still matters, and, contrary to the President, tariffs are hurting people.

Since Trump and Congressional Republicans haven't been serious about addressing this, perhaps they'll be given a life line from the U.S. Supreme Court? While Trump wouldn't view a SCOTUS ruling nullifying his tariffs as a positive, it would be a step in the right direction economically. It would certainly be a blessing Trump and the GOP don't deserve. 

On to 2026.

-------------------------------------------------

Speaker up

The current Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives is officially seeking a new office. 

Demuth's star has definitely risen over the past few years with her ascendence from obscure state rep out of Cold Spring to the House Minority Leader and then ultimately House Speaker. And she appeared poised and ready with every step, never appearing as though the moments were too big for her. 

As expected, the other GOP entrants in the gubernatorial race immediately looked to draw distinctions. 

First up - Kendall Qualls: 

REMINDER: I’m running for governor to SAVE Minnesota, fix our economy and take back our streets and classrooms.

Some career politicians are treating this race like a promotion. Not me. I’m a political outsider who will bring a complete and total transformation to St Paul.

I’m the only candidate who can WIN statewide and I’ll continue to make that case across the state.

Political outsider? Is that a euphemism for "multi time loser in both runs for political office?" Look, I like Kendall a lot and would wholeheartedly support him were he the general election candidate next year. But to pretend like he walked out of the private sector just this year to jump into the gov race is, to be charitable, a stretch. 

Then you had the reaction of Demuth's MN House colleague Kristin Robbins, who didn't pull any punches. 

  

Speaker Lisa Demuth has been a friend since we were both elected in 2018, but I’m the only conservative Republican who’s a proven winner in the suburbs, and the only one who can actually defeat two-term Governor Tim Walz. I’ve led the fight against the rampant fraud in the Walz Administration, and as Governor, I’ll fight the fraud, lower our taxes, and stop the insanity.

After meeting with grassroots Republicans across Minnesota for months, it’s clear there’s no appetite for a Republican who sides with Tim Walz on raising taxes and making our streets less safe. Lisa Demuth agreed to a backroom budget deal that raised taxes and shut down the Stillwater prison with no plan which will result in releasing criminals back into our communities. Demuth and Walz raised our taxes and made our streets less safe, and that’s exactly what I’m fighting against.

If anyone should know the dynamics of divided government in St Paul, it's Robbins. The GOP literally had no majority in any of the three legs of the stool in this year's legislative session, yet Demuth was able to secure the banning of healthcare funding for illegal alien adults. The fact she got Dem Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman (may she RIP) to agree to that is no small thing. Again, I get it. Robbins is looking for an advantage in the GOP race. But this line of attack seems pretty disingenuous. 

I've yet to see any response from Dr. Scott Jensen, but I imagine he'll just stick to pontificating via videos on social media and then work towards the party primary since he'll likely not be endorsed by GOP delegates next year. 

In the end, I just want Walz defeated. Whichever of these candidates emerges I will enthusiastically support. And given the rhetorical shrapnel Demuth has received upon her entering the race, the candidate forums nex year oughta be spicy. 

Game on!

------------------------------------------------

The NARN Closer's playlist - 11/2/2025

----------------------------------------

One more day, do you know how long?

I remembered to set my clocks back an hour, so I'm rested up and rarin' to go for today's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour bonanza will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll discuss the latest on the Federal government shutdown where the Democrats are literally telling on themselves. Also, Tucker Carlson platformed a professed Stalin lover and holocaust denier, but gave little pushback.

At 2:00, GOP candidate in MN Senate District 47 Dwight Dorau will stop by to give one last election pitch before this Tuesday's special election. 

If time permits, I will ponder whether there will be a tamping down on climate hysteria now that Bill Gates admits humanity is not in danger. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Don't go there (UPDATE: GOP ain't goin' there)

As each day passes, the Democrats are being painted as primarily responsible for the ongoing Federal government shutdown (heck, the Dems themselves are pretty much admitting it). The only mystery remaining is if Republicans can stand firm (*never* a sure thing). 

Like in 2017 when Republican policy initiatives were thwarted, President Donald Trump is calling for the ultimate "trump card" in order to move forward. 

There it is — Trump calls for Senate Republicans to nuke the filibuster. pic.twitter.com/3y3lh4qBXQ

— Andrew Desiderio (@AndrewDesiderio) October 31, 2025

And as they did in Trump's first term, the Republican majority in the U.S. Senate should decline this request. 

Fred Bauer at National Review spelled it out last week. 

 

This isn’t eight-dimensional chess. For weeks now, progressive influencers have been calling on Republicans to nuke the filibuster and end the government shutdown. They want that to happen for a variety of reasons. In 2021 and 2022, Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema took the heat for blocking the nuclear option. That spared those Democratic senators with some institutionalist impulses (such as Delaware Senator Chris Coons) from having to disappoint progressive activists by opposing the nuclear option themselves. In a future Democratic Senate majority, the Manchin–Sinema heat shield would be gone. Maine independent Angus King would probably very much like not to be the deciding vote on nuking the filibuster. If Republicans nuke the filibuster now and create that precedent, they end up sparing the Democratic caucus from facing that uncomfortable discussion. A post-nuclear Senate would toss the keys to “the groups.” If there’s any uncertainty about whether every Senate Democrat is really on board with that agenda, it’s far better from progressive activists’ perspectives that Republicans nuke the Senate for them. (And, as Joe Manchin recognized years ago, there is no such thing as a limited “carve-out” via the nuclear option — any “carve-out” puts the whole bird on the table.)

Further, Republicans’ nuking of the filibuster would also be a tactical win for Senate Democrats. Right now, the government remains shut down until enough Senate Democrats come to the table to negotiate. However, the activist base of the party does not want any negotiations with Republicans; they want full-spectrum opposition. This puts Senate Democrats in a tough position: Either keep the government shut down (and thus give the White House increased leverage in determining federal spending), or frustrate the inflatable-clad legions. Seen in that light, the nuclear option on the filibuster would allow Democrats to have their cake and eat it, too. They would get to both engage in performative opposition to Republican governance and see the government reopen.

Charles C.W. Cooke piggybacked off the tweet I posted earlier.  

Trump also did so in his first term. Republicans said no, and recruited 30+ Senate Democrats to sign a letter opposing it. All but two of those Democrats then reversed themselves after Biden won. By contrast, the Republicans did not reverse themselves after Trump won. https://t.co/Nf7DWrusps

— Charles C. W. Cooke (@charlescwcooke) October 31, 2025

So if the Senate GOP does indeed bend the knee to Trump, they would not only lose the moral authority the Dems squandered over the filibuster, but they would effectively be sanctioning radically progressive policies. Y'see, it's not unlikely that Democrats will have a trifecta in Washington again. And given how the left has not been shy about their desires to completely shatter constitutional norms (i.e. pack the U.S. Supreme Court, give statehood to D.C. and Puerto Rico, abolish the Electoral College, etc.), you're pretty much clearing the decks for that to occur if the filibuster is nuked. 

It appears Senate Republicans not only have to stand firm against their Democrat colleagues in the upper chamber but also the top elected official in their party. Hold steady, GOP. 

UPDATE: Republicans respectfully decline Trump's request. 

------------------------------------------

Quick Hits: Volume CCCLXXXVII

 - In 2006, former Veep Al Gore indicated that our planet is on fire and that with continued inaction we would reach a point of no return in 10 years. 

Congresswoman Tide Pod Evita Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said in early 2019 that we had only 12 years to save the planet.

The prog cesspool "Think" "Progress" then disputed AOC's claim, saying we don't have 12 years, but 14 months. 

Obviously all those deadlines have come and gone and yet the third rock from the sun keeps spinning 'round. Perhaps it's a good idea to cease with breathless, hyperbolic claims if you want people to take your cause seriously. 

Of all people, Bill Gates is starting to figure this out. 

There’s a doomsday view of climate change that goes like this:

In a few decades, cataclysmic climate change will decimate civilization. The evidence is all around us—just look at all the heat waves and storms caused by rising global temperatures. Nothing matters more than limiting the rise in temperature.

Fortunately for all of us, this view is wrong. Although climate change will have serious consequences—particularly for people in the poorest countries—it will not lead to humanity’s demise. People will be able to live and thrive in most places on Earth for the foreseeable future. Emissions projections have gone down, and with the right policies and investments, innovation will allow us to drive emissions down much further.

Unfortunately, the doomsday outlook is causing much of the climate community to focus too much on near-term emissions goals, and it’s diverting resources from the most effective things we should be doing to improve life in a warming world.

Now, to be clear, I am not a "climate denier." In fact, I wholeheartedly support the endeavors of the American Conservation Coalition, who combines common sense initiatives without wanting to gut capitalism. 

Check 'em out here ==> (link).  

- Over the past 24 months, the Minnesota Twins organization has conducted a master class on how to piss away a level of fan excitement and buzz not seen since the inaugural season of Target Field in 2010.

Upon firing manager Rocco Baldelli at the conclusion of the 2025 season, the Twins had an opportunity to bring in a skipper who could stem the tide of fan apathy. 

Naturally, they chose not to take that route. 

The Minnesota Twins will reportedly name Derek Shelton as their new manager, per multiple reports including MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. pic.twitter.com/RuHrdsHW3m

— MLB (@MLB) October 29, 2025

Firing Baldelli and then hiring the guy who was his bench coach in 2019 is on brand for a club so steeped in the status quo. This does absolutely nothing to move the needle of fan interest. 

- So who's most responsible for the Federal government being shutdown for nearly a month now? 

Here are some prominent Democrats telling on themselves: 

 

Democrats have blocked SNAP food assistance for 42 million Americans 13 times.

On Saturday, funding runs out completely, and families nationwide will go hungry.

In their words, they did it to increase their political “leverage.” pic.twitter.com/utXcrzE8sF

— Senate Republicans (@SenateGOP) October 28, 2025

This is what happens when you have a major party scared of it's base, which is a collective who is not at all shy of resorting to violence if they don't get what they want or if they hear "trigger words." 

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Box Score of the Week (Final one of the season)

Game 6 of the 1968 World Series - Detroit Tigers at St. Louis Cardinals. 

----------------------------------

In this year's World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays scored nine runs in the 6th inning of Game 1 vs. the Los Angeles Dodgers. That's the most runs scored in a single inning in a WS games since the Tigers hung 10 on the Cardinals in the 3rd inning of the game featured this week. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 10/26/2025

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Why we livin' every day in circles?

Well, the Vikings got their hideous week 8 performance out of the way on Thursday, so I'm expecting more of y'all tuning in live today for my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour extravaganza gets started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll weigh in on the nonsensical gnashing of teeth over renovations at the east wing of the White House. Also, should we really be surprised there are allegations of illegal gambling in pro men's sports given the leagues are so willing to cash the checks for promoting such outlets? 

Then in the second hour, I'll discuss the city of St Paul looking to pass an illegal gun control ordinance. 

At 2:30, Republican candidate in the special election for Minnesota Senate District 47 (Woodbury, southern part of Maplewood) Dwight Dorau will stop by to tout his candidacy. This seat is vacant to the resignation of Sen. (and convicted cat burglar) Nicole Mitchell. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Same ol' song

I've been saying for years that when Democrats engage in debate, they go full frontal on feelings and emotions since the facts are often not on their side. The way they partake in the gun debate is Exhibit A. 

St Paul Mayor Melvin Carter is up for reelection in under two weeks. Since he appears to be fighting for his political life, he decided to politicize the August mass shooting which occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. Specifically, Carter is looking to have the St Paul City Council pass an ordinance banning certain types of firearms and accessories (i.e. "assault" weapons, large capacity magazines, binary triggers, etc.). Now, by the letter of the law this is flatly illegal, and it was spelled out clearly by Rob Doar, General Counsel with the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus. 

The key excerpt: 

Minnesota law could not be more clear. Minn. Stat. § 471.633 states:

“The legislature hereby preempts all authority of local governments to regulate firearms, ammunition, or their respective components…”

This is an express preemption statute. It wholly and unambiguously prohibits cities from legislating in this domain. The Supreme Court of Minnesota and the Court of Appeals have both consistently affirmed that preempted ordinances are void at inception—regardless of when or whether they are enforced. See, for example, In re Application of Hoffman, 430 N.W.2d 210 (Minn. Ct. App. 1988), where a municipality’s overreaching permit requirements were struck down under this same statute.

The City of Saint Paul lacks the authority to adopt any ordinance that regulates firearms or ammunition, whether directly or contingently. No legislative gimmick—such as an indefinite effective date—can circumvent a statutory bar.

Rob's letter concludes by stating his organization's intention to file a lawsuit if this ordinance is enacted. 

Mayor Carter's response was about as devoid of substance as one (sadly) has come to expect from today's Democrats. 

 

Feelings over facts. Symbolism over substance. 

Leave aside the fact such an ordinance is, again, a *legal* non-starter. The idea that restricting the rights of law abiding citizens somehow makes communities *more* safe is a proven fallacy. But whenever ironclad statistics are used to make that case, people are accused of valuing guns over kids. Kinda hard for there to be a civilized debate when one side impugns opponents' motives right off the bat. 

See ya in court, Mr. Mayor. 

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It's JJ time

One silver lining about Thursday night's miserable performance by the Minnesota Vikings is head coach Kevin O'Connell doesn't have a quarterback controversy on his hands. While backup QB Carson Wentz hasn't been completely irredeemable in his five starts with the Vikings this season, it's obvious why he's on his sixth team in six years. 

With the Vikes now having a "mini bye" before their next game on November 2, that should be an ample amount of time for second year quarterback JJ McCarthy to get close to 100% after suffering a high ankle sprain 5-1/2 weeks ago. Heck, O'Connell even said this past week that if their week 8 game was this Sunday, McCarthy may well have been ready to go. 

Given McCarthy has played all of two games this season and has looked (to be charitable) subpar in seven of the eight quarters he's been in, there was talk that if Wentz had success in his tenure as the starter, it would've been difficult to go back to the kid. The prevailing sentiment was the veteran laden team wouldn't have reacted kindly to removing a QB which was helping them win now and thus be agitated over the team starting to look towards the future. But now that it's apparent Wentz has hit his ceiling, it's time to see what you have in McCarthy. Heck, he may end up being a bust. But for those Vikings fans who are already wanting to move on from McCarthy after only two starts, I'll just say that you're (again, I'll be charitable) incredibly premature in that assessment. You need to look no further than two of McCarthy's fellow 2024 first round QBs. Do yourself a favor and check out the first two career starts of Chicago's Caleb Williams and Denver's Bo Nix. Good thing for both those guys that their respective team's fans don't have any influence on personnel decisions. 

All that being said, I will concede that McCarthy's recent injury history is a concern. In the 18 months since the Vikings drafted him, he's only been physically available to the team in two of their 24 regular season games played in that span. So if McCarthy suffers yet another injury which causes him to miss multiple games over the final ten contests of this season, then there needs to be a serious discussion on whether to move forward. But until then, he needs all the reps that he can muster. 

Time to rip off that band aid. It's go time. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CCCLXXXVI

- Gov. Tim Walz finally announced a few weeks ago that he would seek a third term. Now Minnesota's AG has followed suit. 

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison on Tuesday announced he plans to seek a third term in office in 2026.

Ellison, a former Democratic Congressman elected attorney general in 2018, said he would use another four years in office to continue protecting Minnesota consumers from “greedy corporations.”

The attorney general said he also would continue to oppose the agenda of President Donald Trump. Ellison has been involved in numerous lawsuits against the Republican administration, including action this year to challenge Trump’s executive order banning transgender youth from girls’ sports.

“I’m running for re-election to keep Minnesota a fair place, where rule of law prevails over power and privilege,” Ellison said in his campaign announcement. “Since Minnesota elected me seven years ago, we’ve won tough fights to help Minnesotans afford their lives. We don’t bow down to kings in America, not presidents, not billionaires, not giant corporations, because everyone deserves to afford their life.”

This is the dictionary definition of the "crazy cycle" in that progs like AG Ellison decry destructive policies that his party is responsible for and that electing he and his leftist ilk will stem the tide of that destruction they caused.

In a favorable election cycle for Dems in 2018, Ellison won his first term by less than 4% against a woefully underfunded challenger. Four years later, he won reelection by less than a point against yet another GOP challenger with neither name recognition nor fundraising prowess. So if this trend continues.....BAH, who am I kidding? The MNGOP is still a raging garbage fire who will likely be unable to put forth a formidable challenge to this vacuous hack. Alas. 

- I've said many times before that I never thought I'd see the day where a GOP President would be more villfied than George W. Bush. But the perpetual rage on display over the past decade regarding anything Donald Trump has forever dispelled that notion. 

And guess what? Progs somehow are going to find another level of disdain for the next potential Republican POTUS. 

Jen Psaki Says JD Vance is ‘Scarier’ Than Trump

“He's smarter in some ways, and he's young and ambitious.” 😱 pic.twitter.com/WHsfJlCr3U

— Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) October 21, 2025

This is exactly why leftists are not to be believed when they defend their "Trump is Hitler" rhetoric by insisting it's because Trump is uniquely dangerous. Progs will always, without fail, declare that next rightwing boogeyman even scarier. 

- I've seen several prominent leftists in my social media going all Linda-Blair-head-spin-projectile-vomiting-in-The-Exorcist over the Trump administration apparently demolishing the White House? 

It’s not his house.

It’s your house.

And he’s destroying it. pic.twitter.com/YchFF5U1nO

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) October 21, 2025

As usual, the hyperbole doesn't quite match reality. 

The renovation of the East Wing has begun. The privately funded refurbishment will bring capacity for events from 200 to 650 people. The East Wing is where the President traditionally signs bills, announces major initiatives, and hosts international delegations and other major White House events. It is where Nancy Reagan announced her “Just Say No” anti-drug movement, and where Michelle Obama unveiled her “Let’s Move” children’s health program. The current space also happens to be too small and often requires augmentation with an unsightly white circus tent on the White House grounds. Expansion is both pragmatic and overdue. It will be used to the benefit of both Republican and Democratic administrations for years to come, at no cost to taxpayers.

Say, Hillary? I remember the shenanigans that took place in "our house" while you were there for 8 years. Might wanna sit this one out. 

 

Yes, between selling nights in the Lincoln bedroom to donors and her husband’s tutelage of the interns in the Oval Office, if anyone treated the WH as sacred it was the Clintons. https://t.co/h3vcDISVv0

— Mark Hemingway (@Heminator) October 21, 2025

I'm not certain whether these leftists are willfully ignorant of the particulars of the remodel or they know full well what's happening but wanna gin up outrage among their low information voters. 

------------------------------------------

Box Score of the Week (Postseason edition)

Game 7 of the National League Championship Series - St Louis Cardinals at Atlanta Braves.

---------------------------------

The 15-0 Braves win marked the largest margin of victory in League Championship Series history. In fact, after falling behind in this series 3 games to 1, Atlanta outscored St. Louis 32-1 over the final three games. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 10/19/2025

--------------------------------

Some got hopes and dreams, we got ways and mean......

Another Sunday, yet another edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour festivities get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

I'll obviously weigh in on the supposed end to the Israeli-Hamas conflict and how President Donald Trump's Middle East foreign policy is arguably the most effective of any POTUS ever. 

At 1:30, former US Ambassador to the Holy See Francis Rooney will be on to share his perspective of the first ever American Pope. Amb. Rooney's insights are unique in that he has been close to Robert Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV) for about 25 years now. 

Then at 2:00, Travis Ekbom of MNUSA250 will join the broadcast to discuss a certain nonprofit's attempt to hijack America's 250th birthday celebration, which will take place next July 4. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Quintessential Karen

I hate to perpetuate a stereotype here, but when you immediately picture a middle-aged, entitled white woman who's perceived as demanding or hostile (aka a "Karen"), it's not unlikely your mind conjures up this visual: 

Yeah, I know. It's totally unfair of me to say all overly bitchy white women look like this. But I would also concede that assuming a person is in the U.S. illegally just because he appears to be of Hispanic descent is downright abhorrent. Yet that is exactly what happened when the lady pictured (who is a fan of the Milwaukee Brewers) took exception to a visiting male Dodgers fan becoming overly zealous when his team extended their lead over the Brew Crew in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series. 

The key part of the exchange went as follows: 

Brewers fan: "You know what, let’s call ICE."

Dodgers fan: "Call ICE. Call ICE. I’m a U.S. citizen, war veteran, baby girl. War veteran, two wars. ICE is not gonna do nothing to me. Good luck."

Truth be told, I'm as intense a sports fan as there is, and I have definitely been filled with rage when opposing fans come in to my team's arena/stadium and talk sh*t. But I also knew full well that spouting a vulgar comment or making an obscene gesture in the heat of the moment would have been something I would deeply regret. And I told myself this even before the advent of readily available video devices. But since such equipment is prolific and can be used to transmit incidents literally across the world in an instant, there are often consequences for such behavior. And this Brewers fan, who has since been identified as Shannon Kobylarczyk, now knows this all too well. 

Make-A-Wish Wisconsin confirmed she resigned from its board effective immediately.

The State Bar of Wisconsin listed her as an attorney for ManpowerGroup, which later commented she was no longer employed following an internal investigation.

ManpowerGroup provided the following statement:

"As soon as we became aware of this video the individual was placed on immediate leave and we began an investigation. As a result of this process, the employee is no longer with the organization. We remain committed to maintaining a culture grounded in respect, integrity, and accountability."

I don't want to give the impression here that I am taking joy in someone else's misfortune. If anything, I hate that we're in a time and place where one unfortunate mistake can potentially ruin a person's life. The fact Ms. Kobylarczyk is an attorney tells you she is well educated and worked diligently to attain such stature. That, and her prominent role within a high profile charitable organization shows how much she wanted to make her community a better place. The fact that has all been severely disrupted over an ill advised comment shows how fragile life can be. It also serves as a cautionary tale that we shouldn't let others dictate our emotions. 

--------------------------------------------------

Quick Hits: Volume CCCLXXXV

This week Politico reported on some absolutely vile text messages being exchanged in a group chat among young Republicans. 

Leaders of Young Republican groups throughout the country worried what would happen if their Telegram chat ever got leaked, but they kept typing anyway.

They referred to Black people as monkeys and “the watermelon people” and mused about putting their political opponents in gas chambers. They talked about raping their enemies and driving them to suicide and lauded Republicans who they believed support slavery.

You can click the link if you really wanna see more of that despicable content. 

It shouldn't be at all difficult to say that any of the individuals who are in any kind of leadership role within the party should step aside. Unfortunately for a guy like Matt Walsh of the Daily Wire, he believes righties should look the other way. 

The Virginia AG candidate fantasized about murdering children and no Democrat at any level called for him to resign or denounced him in any serious way. Meanwhile a few college kids make edgy jokes in a group chat and conservatives are tripping over themselves to denounce and…

— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) October 14, 2025

The Right doesn't stick together. That's our biggest problem by far. Conservatives are quick to denounce each other, jump on dogpiles, disavow, attack their allies. I said a few weeks ago that we all need to band together in the wake of Charlie's death and the answer I got back…

— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) October 15, 2025

Yeah, I'm so not down with the "two wrongs make a right" strategy. 

The fact of the matter is the Dems' failure to condemn Virginia Attorney General candidate Jay Jones (and Jones not leaving the race) is not only hurting Jones' chance to defeat incumbent AG Jason Miyares but it looks to be undermining the campaign of Abigail Spanberger, the Democrat candidate for governor of VA. So I say let the Dems hang themselves over their lack of moral clarity while ensuring the Republican party doesn't let their cancer go untreated. 

I will say this though. There have been a number of prominent Democrats jumping around like poo flinging monkeys over that Politico story, yet have been conspicuously silent over Jones fantasizing about murdering a Republican politician. And none of those impudent GOP members are seeking a state constitutional office. 

- After releasing her book 107 Days chronicling her time as the 2024 Democrat presidential candidate, Kamala Harris seems hellbent on convincing Americans how we have all failed her. 

Kamala: “Some people have said I was the most qualified candidate ever to run for president."

🤡🌎 pic.twitter.com/c8jkdtiLpM

— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) October 15, 2025

"Some people?" I mean, technically that's true. But the only quantity that matters is "enough people," which she fell well short of convincing. 

- Here comes Charlie Brown about to kick that football again. 

Rep. Angie Craig and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan are polling just a few points ahead of a yet-to-be-determined Republican candidate in the race to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Tina Smith.

That surprising result came from an internal poll commissioned last month by the Flanagan campaign. The poll was first reported by political commentator Blois Olson on Friday. Craig and Flanagan are both seeking the DFL nomination for the U.S. Senate.

Conducted in September by Public Policy Polling, the survey polled 1,015 likely Minnesota voters. In one scenario, voters were asked to choose between Flanagan and “Republican Candidate.” The group was also asked to pick between Craig and “Republican Candidate.”

The poll showed Flanagan winning against the Republican by just two points while Craig bested the GOP candidate by a four-point margin.

With such a slim margin separating a Republican from the two DFLers in a potential general election matchup, the poll caught the eye of John Rouleau, a veteran conservative political strategist and executive director at the Minnesota Jobs Coalition.

“Even the liberals at (Public Policy Polling) can’t make this race look good for the DFL with their thumb on the scale,” Rouleau told Alpha News. “A race within the margin of error 14-months from the election and well before Minnesotans learn about the woke, liberal agenda championed by Flanagan and Craig, is a disastrous result for the Democrats.”

Given the GOP is closing in on 20 years since they last won a statewide race in Minnesota, I'm of the mind that I'll believe it when I see it. But if MN Republicans once again put forth Royce White as the candidate, it'll ensure that this state will receive no national backing in what is (for now) a flippable seat. 

-----------------------------------------------

It's over

In just over two years since the terrorist organization Hamas enacted the largest slaughter of Jews since the Holocaust, the Israeli-Hamas conflict has drawn to a conclusion. 

The front page of The Jerusalem Post. pic.twitter.com/0W6NLHOzj3

— Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) October 13, 2025

As of Monday morning, the remaining living hostages in Hamas captivity were released, yet this was an encapsulation of the "FREE PALESTINE" bobbleheads: 

Y'see, for that collective it was never so much their wish for Palestine to be "freed" as it was their desire to see Israel cease to exist. The collective silence on the leftist social media cesspool that is BlueSky in addition to continued anti-Israel protests occurring in the U.K. underscore that fact. 

While President Trump's foreign policy has been uneven at times, it's hard to deny that his dealings with the Middle East over both of this terms have yielded the most substantial successes of which no other U.S. presidency can measure up. Moving the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and brokering the Abraham Accords were hallmarks of his first term. But his stopping this two-year conflict is, in the words of frequent MAGA critic Jim Geraghty, easily the greatest day in Trump's second term. 

But hey, don't take our word for it. Check out this grand speech merely hours after the hostages were released. 

Addressing US President Donald Trump at the Knesset, Opposition Leader Yair Lapid lauds the American leader for saving “millions from the horrors of war,” stating that he has “done the unimaginable.”

“Mr. President, you have saved the lives of our hostages. But you saved so much more. You have saved the souls of the bereaved whose loved ones now will be brought home for burial, you have saved thousands of soldiers who will not fall in battle, and you have saved millions from the horrors of war. You have saved far more than one life, and each life is an entire world,” Lapid declares in the Knesset plenum ahead of Trump’s address to the body.

“When you were elected, you declared that you would be ‘the President of Peace.’ You have kept your word. The fact that you were not awarded the Nobel Peace Prize is a grave mistake by the committee – but they will have no choice, Mr. President. They will have to award it to you next year,” Lapid says.

Just in case y'all need a reminder about how American dodged a huuuuuuge bullet by not electing Kamala Harris as President of the United States, here's her comments just ahead of the announcement of the war ending. 

DISGUSTING: Kamala Harris ATTACKS Israel, accusing them of committing a genocide.

Eugene Daniels: "A lot of folks in your party have called what's happening in Gaza a genocide. Do you agree with that?"

Kamala Harris: "We should all step back and be honest about it. Yeah." pic.twitter.com/8F4I1eFMyb

— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) October 12, 2025

Noah Rothman at National Review took exception to that characterization. 

 

Those are the shibboleths we were bombarded with almost from the outset of Israel’s defensive war against the terrorist groups with which Iran surrounded the Jewish state. But any honest broker must concede that, if Israel is a genocidaire, it’s an incompetent one.

As President Donald Trump observed on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces count 58,000 Hamas fighters and operatives among the dead in its defensive war. Even if we take the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry’s numbers at face value, which we shouldn’t, that would indicate that the vast majority of the 67,000 deaths over the last two years were legitimate targets. That is the kind of ratio that represents, according to military historian John Spencer, a “remarkable, historic new standard” in taking “precautions to prevent civilian harm.” Indeed, even if the enemy was not dug into a densely populated urban space and tactically devoted to using civilians as shields, such a ratio would be difficult to achieve.

One other aspect which we seem to be overlooking? Harris et al often referred to Trump as a fascist and the greatest threat to American democracy. So if the former Veep still clings to that belief, she must also concede this is a historic moment in world history in that such an evil leader was so willing to stop a genocide. I mean, what a lousy fascist. 

But seriously, I will never get used to the fact that what's undeniably good for the U.S. and the world can somehow be looked down upon for the sole reason that an individual whom you despise was instrumental in making it possible. 

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Box Score of the Week (postseason edition)

Game 4 of the 2017 National League Championship Series - Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago Cubs. 

---------------------------------

This game is noteworthy in that it featured the most combined runs (5) in a postseason game which occurred via solo home runs. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 10/12/2025

---------------------------------------------

Doesn't matter who gets the best of who......

For the first time in about two months, I will be on the air for my radio show on a second consecutive Sunday. Good thing I rested up this weekend. 

Anyhow, the 2-hour extravaganza that is The Closer will begin at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll weigh in on Gov. Tim Walz having his bluff called regarding a special legislative session on guns. While I firmly believe a serious discussion needs to be had on "gun violence," it doesn't appear one will take place. 

On the national front, some high profile stand-up comedians took money from Saudi Arabia to perform in a festival in that country. Was that a wise decision given the country's history of human rights abuses? 

At 2:00, South Washington County school board candidates Bryn Forstner, Juan Huerta and Lori Pecchia Michalski will stop by to discuss their campaigns. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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The continued descension of Bill Burr

A group of high profile American comedians recently attended the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, which took place over two weeks in late September thru early October. Given that country's record of human rights abuses, such a move raised more than a few eyebrows, especially since the comedians attending the festival take such pride in their craft. What I mean by that is they enjoy the creative freedom to riff on any topic to the point where they righteously flip the bird to American cancel culture. 

But in a country like Saudi Arabia, such liberties aren't allowed. In fact, the performers (which included big names like Louis C.K., Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Bill Burr), were downright censored. 

ARTIST shall not prepare or perform any material that may be considered to degrade, defame or bring into public disrepute, contempt, scandal, embarrassment, or ridicule:

• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including its leadership, public figures, culture or people;

• The Saudi royal family, legal system, or government, and

• Any religion, religious tradition, religious figure or religious practice.

Look, I'm an unabashed capitalist. If you can have a nice payday sharing your craft with folks who rarely have an opportunity to indulge in your talent, then go for it. But the problem is when you rail on certain aspects of your homeland and then turn around and willingly take money from a country who exacerbate those traits you believe permeate America, you shouldn't be all that shocked when people view you as a hypocritical tool. 

Which brings me to Bill Burr. 

I have enjoyed Burr's comedy over the years simply because I've always been partial to entertainers who perform as if they have nothing to lose. But as I wrote about earlier this year, he seems to be following the pattern of Howard Stern and Jimmy Kimmel. That is big name entertainers putting forth bits where there are no sacred cows ultimately morphing into obnoxious woke scolds. Whether it's calling for literal extinction of billionaires or borderline justifying the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Burr has gone from his trademark ranting to unhinged. But if he genuinely believes that such people are immoral because of how they accumulated their wealth, then the obvious question is how can Burr accept money from a collective (i.e. Saudi royalty) which clearly didn't become rich by wholesome methods? 

Needless to say, ol' Billy Boy was put on the defensive when such hypocrisy was pointed out. 

During an interview on the “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast, Burr said he does not “give a f--- what all these phony f---ing people are saying.”

“The general consensus is, ‘How dare you go to that place and make those oppressed people laugh, you f---ing piece of shit. I can’t believe you went to that place. I can’t find it on a map, and this bot said I was upset about it so now I am,'” Burr said about the outrage over the festival. “It’s one thing to wear clothes made by sweatshop labor. It’s quite another to go to the factory and make ’em laugh. I can’t believe how much anger I had about this issue after it went viral.”

Yeah, you're the real victim here, Bill. And yeah, sure, your motivation was totally righteous, making oppressed people forget about their lives for bit. We'll go with it. 

Burr's screed on Conan's podcast may be dismissed as nothing more than his typical shtick where he rants at the world. But I gotta tell ya it definitely had a "thou protesteth too much methinks" vibe to it.

-------------------------------------------

Walz's demagoguery stunt pretty much backfired

In the aftermath of the Annunciation Catholic Church and School shooting, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz enacted the longtime Dem mantra of never letting a good crisis go to waste. Specifically, Walz almost immediately expressed a desire to call a special session of the legislature in order to ban firearms like the ones used at the attack on Annunciation. I'm certain he thought he'd get a least a few Republicans on the defensive who would then join all the Democrats to ban "assault rifles."

Thankfully, MN House Republicans went on offense, showing how they can be serious about ensuring guns don't get in the wrong hands and protecting kids, all while not running afoul of the U.S. Constitution. 

pic.twitter.com/EYxpoqYpep

— MN House Republicans (@mnhousegop) September 4, 2025

While Walz has attempted to frame this as Republicans being unwilling to ban dangerous weapons, the fact of the matter is there are some DFL legislators who won't even commit to an outright gun ban. As such, Walz seems all but resigned to the fact that a special session (which he and he alone has the authority to call) likely won't happen. 

Responding to ramped-up pressure on him by groups seeking new gun restrictions, Walz said a session wouldn’t be worthwhile if the House and Senate won’t commit to vote on proposals to restrict assault-style weapons and high capacity magazines.

In the weeks following the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School, Walz has pressed for the bans to reduce instances of gun violence in Minnesota. But Republican legislative leaders have said the focus should be on mental health resources and tighter security for schools rather than guns.

“I need to get an agreement on this. I need to have it. If we're going to hold the special session on safety of our children and safety of our streets and safety on gun violence, we need to talk about guns,” Walz said at news conference where he got immunizations for COVID-19 and the flu.

“And if the folks who hold veto power over this, which they do because of the makeup of the Legislature, if they say that's not going to happen, calling a special session is going to be a waste of money and a waste of time if they're not willing to participate,” he continued.

It's also probably not a good idea to imply that those legislators who oppose gun bans somehow lack moral courage. David Lose, a senior pastor at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, said it was that kind of rhetoric which dissuaded him from joining his fellow clergy in signing a petition calling for banning of certain weapons. 

I understand the frustration, even righteous indignation, that prompts faith leaders to “demand” change, particularly in light of the tragedy and trauma of the school shooting at Annunciation Church that left two children dead and 24 children and three adults wounded. I get that. But what is demanded? Not simply calling a special session, but that lawmakers act “with moral clarity and courageous leadership,” implying that anyone who does not agree with the petitioners lacks moral vision and courage. The slide from moral indignation to condescending contempt — at least in the eyes and ears of anyone who may disagree — is as swift as it is uncompromising and will likely only push opponents to greater entrenchment in their previously held positions.

Which is perhaps the most problematic element of “the pattern of this world.” Increasingly, the issues of the day are rarely framed as policy issues or even moral ones, but rather as identity issues. Both sides of the political aisle are expected to line up, tow the party line and disavow any conversation, let alone compromise, with opponents.

Minnesota State Senator (and longtime friend of the NARN) Julia Coleman said in an interview last week that she was more than willing to be part of a special session merely to address what she deemed as a failure of the entire legislative body to protect children. And for that, she gets labeled a "RINO" by the buffoons at Action 4 Larceny Liberty. 

In the end, Walz realizes his desires will not be fulfilled, so he'll take his demagoguery to the echo chambers that are anti-gun town halls. His only goal with that isn't to convey a substantive case for gun control (though to be fair, he's never had one) but rather make his campaign reelection pitch as well as give an assist to DFLers hoping to regain a majority in both legislative chambers.

One final thought: I love how Walz decries wasting taxpayer money on a special session where there's a good chance nothing will get accomplished yet doesn't seem to factor in that it will cost significantly more to defend in court gun laws which would likely be unconstitutional. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CCCLXXXIV

- Democrats are wholly incapable of condemning despicable behavior by one of their own without a "but TRUMP!" deflection. 

The latest example is the saga involving Jay Jones, the Democrat Attorney General candidate from Virginia who once fantasized about a Virginia Republican being shot in the head. Given that in the past year alone politics has been the catalyst for multiple murders, we ought not be so dismissive of such rhetoric, even if it occurred in a private text conversation. 

As Noah Rothman at National Review points out, prominent Dems view this as little more than a distraction. 

They cannot call for Jones to submit to consequences for his repulsive actions because to do so would implicate the Virginia Democratic Party within a month of crucial statewide elections. Sure, Senator Mark Warner called the comments “appalling.” Gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger said she was “disgusted.” State Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said the remarks represent “a serious lapse in judgment that cannot be defended.” But they stopped short of calling for Jones to exit the race. Indeed, Democratic voters “have to be mature in our thinking and how we vote,” said Virginia House Speaker Don Scott. “We can’t get distracted, because they want us to get distracted by the text message here or something else.”

What are we witness to here but an effort to have it both ways — a situation in which those who practice or welcome political violence are somehow also the sympathetic victims in their stories? They’ve been driven to madness by provocation after provocation by the real villains in this tale. Can we honestly blame them for their discrete antisocial or even criminal actions unless we condemn all the environmental factors to which they’re supposedly responding?

The separation of the wheat and the chaff has never been more apparent. 

- Speaking of progs sanctioning violence......

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Erick Erickson (@ewerickson)

If you listen to Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, he basically implies this wouldn't be happening if that nosy Trump administration weren't so hellbent on enforcing Federal laws. 

- I imagine there are a good number of people who are mind-numbingly confused over how a devout Christ follower like Charlie Kirk was "allowed" to be slain. Kudos to Megyn Kelly for being so transparent in her own struggle. 

 

Megyn Kelly: "I'm Mad at God!" #God #Christianity@megynkelly pic.twitter.com/6XSJ9M0nts

— Frank Turek (@DrFrankTurek) October 7, 2025

If Jesus Christ himself can feel separated from God (i.e. his asking "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"), it's certainly no disgrace if we wonder aloud about His plan not making sense to us.

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