Huge.....and long overdue.

Our military installations have been turned into gun-free zones—leaving our service members vulnerable and exposed.

That ends today. pic.twitter.com/IQ204YepZ0

— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) April 2, 2026

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

Quick Hits: Volume CDV

 - If the LGBTQIA+2S community is truly an oppressed folk, why is that when someone so much as looks at them cross-eyed, the clap back is a veritable tidal wave? 

The Chicago Bulls waived guard Jaden Ivey for conduct detrimental to the team Monday, hours after he posted a lengthy video rant on social media about religion and other topics that included anti-gay sentiments.

Ivey has gone live on his Instagram account more frequently in the past week, posting at least three lengthy videos after he was shut down for the rest of the season by the team because of injury last Thursday. On Monday morning, he called out the NBA for promoting Pride Month, saying it celebrates "unrighteousness."

"The world proclaims LGBTQ, right?" Ivey said during the video stream. "They proclaim Pride Month and the NBA does, too. They show it to the world. They say, 'Come join us for Pride Month to celebrate unrighteousness.' They proclaim it on the billboards. They proclaim it on the streets. Unrighteousness."

In another live stream Monday evening, Ivey questioned why he was waived before speaking again at length about religion.

"[The Bulls] said my conduct is detrimental to the team," he said. "Why didn't they just say, 'We don't agree with his stance on LGBTQ'? Why didn't they say that? ... How is it conduct detrimental to the team? What did I do to the team? What did I do to the players?"

pic.twitter.com/nV6zlJ0yOi

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 30, 2026

The Bulls likely believe this gives them plausible deniability in that they didn't specifically cite Ivey's comments about LGBTQ. 

Naturally, most Christians believe this is yet another instance of bigotry against their faith and that Ivey wasn't bullying others as much as he was questioning forced advocacy. But those who supported Ivey's ouster claim it was more out of concern for his mental health than what he was actually saying. Well if that's true, why didn't the team intervene to provide him whatever assistance he needed as opposed to leaving him high and dry? And the fact Ivey will receive his entire salary for the season suggests the Bulls organization just wants this to go away. Heh. In a country bound up by nonstop culture wars, this definitely is not the last we'll hear of this. 

- Just your periodic reminder that students, in the minds of the teachers union, are not the top priority when it comes to education funding. 

WATCH: A Minnesota teacher testifies against a bill that would incentivize donations to private and public schools

In a stunning moment, she says the bill should be rejected because "donations to private schools would decrease tuition, making private school more affordable to… pic.twitter.com/wSJ0vyjyQf

— Alpha News (@AlphaNews) March 30, 2026

There has been ungodly amounts of money thrown at Minnesota public education for decades, yet there's been no discernible improvement in student aptitude. Also, why should schools continue to receive funds for a student who is no longer attending there?  That's not "defunding" as much as it is refusal to allocate resources for a kid who isn't even a part of that school. 

Public schools are a failing business model, yet not enough people are asking why. Let's start there.

- I'm thinking the Rocky Mountain state oughta get out of the business of demanding people acquiesce to the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. 

The power of government to regulate the professions, especially in medicine and law, has created a lot of levers to enforce conformity. That power can be exercised openly through lawmaking, and more subtly by delegating licensing and disciplinary powers to quasi-public cartels run by the professions themselves. In Chiles v. Salazar, the Supreme Court struck a blow against the use of those powers to dictate orthodoxy and stifle disfavored opinions. Still more encouragingly, Justice Neil Gorsuch’s ringing opinion attracted a lopsided 8–1 majority, with only Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson in dissent.

Chiles arose from yet another effort by Colorado to ban dissent from “LBGTQ+” ideology, which was yet again defeated by a legal team from Alliance Defending Freedom. A state law bans licensed counselors from engaging in “conversion therapy” with minors, on penalty of fines and loss of license. The law is flagrantly one-sided: It applies only to therapy that aims to resolve gender dysphoria or to reduce homosexual attraction, while permitting state-favored counseling in favor of gender transition and homosexuality. It is coercive and destructive of parental authority: While blue states have schemed to let public schools “socially transition” kids without telling their parents, Colorado won’t even let the disfavored therapists talk to minors when both the minor and the parent consent. It is speech-specific: Unlike red-state bans on irreversible surgeries and puberty-blocking drugs, the law applies to purely talk-based therapies. And it is harmful as well: Most children and teens suffering gender dysphoria can outgrow the problem and learn to live in their bodies; talking through their problems can help.

he Court called this what it is: discrimination against a particular viewpoint. As Gorsuch wrote, “Colorado may regard its policy as essential to public health and safety. Certainly, censorious governments throughout history have believed the same. But the First Amendment stands as a shield against any effort to enforce orthodoxy in thought or speech in this country.” Even Justice Elena Kagan, joined by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, emphasized that “the case is textbook. The law distinguishes between two opposed sets of ideas—the one resisting, the other reflecting, the State’s own view of how to speak with minors about sexual orientation and gender identity.” To Kagan’s credit, she added that this is just as bad when her own side does it: “It does not matter what the State’s preferred side is.” Justice Jackson, who opened by urging that there is “no right to practice medicine which is not subordinate to the police power of the States,” could use a remedial course on that score.

As has often been the case, Justice Jackson shows she's more of an emotional ideologue than a legal mind. 

In celebration of this decision, I hope Colorado therapists buy some baked goods from Masterpiece Cakeshop. 

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

Box Score of the Week

It was Opening Day of the MLB season last week!

Let's check out the 1950 opener - New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox. 

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

The Yankees overcame a 9-run deficit to win this game, making it the largest Opening Day comeback in MLB history. 

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

The NARN Closer's playlist - 3/29/2026

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

We got to get together sooner or later because the revolution's here.......

Dang, we're almost a quarter of the way through 2026! As usual, I'll be in the Patriot bunker today for this week's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour broadcast will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll weigh in on Minnesota related topics, including "No Kings," a state legislator/Auditor candidate enduring a p.r. nightmare and the unserious demagogues on the Minneapolis City Council. 

Then in the second hour, I'll discuss some goings on in Washington, D.C. where, in the immortal words of '70s band Stealers Wheel, it's clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right. 

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.....

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

Quick Hits: Volume CDIV (more Minnesota stuff)

 - With "No Kings" rallies slated to occur across the country this weekend, Minnesota's own Nebraska Fats Gov. Tim Walz plans to be more present at the Twin Cities gathering.  

Earlier this week, Walz appeared on MSNBC MS NOW show All In to do what he loves best: slam President Donald Trump while acting like the disarray in Minnesota has absolutely nothing to do with looney leftist policy. 

A couple things stand out from that appearance. First Walz's contention that President Trump "breaks it and moves on." Huh. You mean like you, governor, turning a blind eye to warning signs of rampant fraud in Minnesota and then not seeking reelection once the heat gets turned up? Oh, and that whole bit about our state "provided the template here for pushing back" on the Trump administration? Well, let's get real. There were some solid cases of obstruction of justice that could have been brought given immigration enforcement is under the purview of the Feds. But also, the Customs Border Patrol, under the direction of then DHS head Kristi Noem completely, completely bungled many of their operations. So it wasn't so much "pushback" from Minnesotans that sent CBP packing as much as it was, sadly, incompetence on the Feds' part.

But hey, at least Walz can go back to a venue where he can puff out his chest without having to be reminded of the utter buffoonery that was his VP candidacy in 2024. 

- Believe it or not, the Minnesota Legislature can occasionally show strong bipartisanship. 

The Minnesota Senate on Thursday unanimously approved a measure to repeal César Chávez Day in the state after sexual abuse allegations against the late civil rights icon surfaced.

The 67-0 vote sends the bill to DFL Gov. Tim Walz after House approval on Monday. Walz is expected to quickly sign the bill.

The New York Times published a report on March 18 detailing several allegations of sexual abuse by Chávez, a Latino farm labor activist, including the sexual abuse of two minor girls and the assault and rape of Dolores Huerta, who led the farmworkers’ movement of the 1960s and ’70s alongside Chávez.

State and local leaders have quickly responded, leading to the push at the Capitol to repeal the quickly approaching “César Chávez Day” on March 31, Chávez’s birthday.

St. Paul also has a street named after Chávez on the West Side, as well as a charter school, Academia César Chávez.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her said this week that she’s assembling a group of stakeholders and residents to discuss the future of the street name.

Ramona Arreguín de Rosales, an activist who personally met Chávez and the co-founder of Academia César Chávez, said she has recommended that the Board of Academia César Chávez change the school’s name.

This is undoubtedly the morally correct stance. However, it's notable that Chávez's support for an ideology (Communism) which has caused death and destruction of millions of people across the world should have been more than enough to keep him from being "honored" in the first place. 

- Yeah, so this ain't good.  

NEW overnight:
MN State Rep. Elliott Engen (R-36A) was arrested overnight on probable cause DWI. He's been released on recognizance.

A statement has been requested. pic.twitter.com/khNnC57HHN

— CrimeWatchMpls (@CrimeWatchMpls) March 27, 2026

3/
Minnesota GOP Rep. Elliott Engen arrested on suspicion of drunk driving

According to police, Engen had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.13.https://t.co/FNlw3vnBhM

— CrimeWatchMpls (@CrimeWatchMpls) March 27, 2026

Rep. Engen eventually posted a statement on Friday.  

To my family, colleagues and constituents. I am deeply sorry.

I strive to be a man of good character, and my actions fell short last night.

I will learn from this. I will do better.

Elliott

— Elliott Engen (@elliottengenMN) March 27, 2026

I first met Elliott back in 2020, when, as a 22-year old, he sought election to the Minnesota House. He fell short that cycle but emerged victorious in a close race in 2022, becoming the youngest member of the MN Legislature at age 24. He then coasted to reelection in 2024. 

Sometime last year, Engen chose to seek the GOP nomination for MN State Auditor. Given a Minnesota Republican winning a statewide race is tough lift even with a spotless background, I contend Engen is now far too damaged to continue in the Auditor race. Heck, in this year's environment, reelection to his House seat would be unlikely. 

Elliot is only 27 with a wife and young son at home. While I have no doubt he will, in his words, "do better," the redemption story needs to begin away from the spotlight. 

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

Three things that bear repeating

1) When I look at the glorified Star Wars cantina scene that is the Minneapolis City Council, I initially feel genuine sorrow on behalf of the residents of Minneapolis. 

🚨 WATCH: Minneapolis City Council meltdown after members wouldn’t unanimously approve resolutions to:

• Normalize relations with Cuba
• Divest from European institutions who support ICE

These people are paid six-figure salaries to LARP as diplomats in a city council meeting. pic.twitter.com/T4n20giMm8

— Dustin Grage (@GrageDustin) March 26, 2026

However, it bears repeating: You get what you vote for. 

2) Outside of Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, Senate Democrats are a veritable insane asylum. 

The fact these are shocking takes shows you how far gone the party is. 

 

An alleged repeat criminal offender was allowed back on our streets and killed an Air Force veteran.

This is precisely why I was the Democratic lead on the Laken Riley law.

Why is it controversial for Democrats support deporting criminal migrants? https://t.co/rwb2MI8FJv

— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) March 26, 2026

Here in Philadelphia.

Truly appalling.

These assholes chanting for the death of our servicemembers.

Where’s the Dem outrage and condemnation? https://t.co/BZ9oH0ryk1

— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) March 26, 2026

It bears repeating: The most rational member of the Senate Democrats is someone who suffered a debilitating stroke just a few years ago.  

3) In their 2026 season opener on Thursday, the Minnesota Twins lost to the Baltimore Orioles 2-1. While ace starting pitcher Joe Ryan was solid allowing 0 runs and 1 hit in 5-1/3 innings while striking out 7, a patchwork bullpen gave up two runs late. Add to that a lineup (which inexplicably had Royce Lewis batting eighth before being pinch hit for in the ninth inning) going 1 for 12 with runners in scoring position while grounding into three double plays. 

It bears repeating: The 2026 Twins will be fortunate to win 70 games. 

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

Quick Hits: Volume CDIII

 - Imagine reading this headline: 

Quadruple amputee, professional cornhole player faces murder charges. 

When I learned it was not from The Babylon Bee or The Onion, I thought "Wow, that's quite the dynamic duo crime spree." But then to learn those description were applicable to......one person?!?!?!

Dayton James Webber, 27, of La Plata, Md., was arraigned in the District Court of Maryland for Charles County after being located in Charlottesville, Virginia, and arrested following the fatal shooting of 27‑year‑old Bradrick Michael Wells, according to court documents.

According to charging documents signed by a detective from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Webber is formally charged with:

• First‑Degree Murder — accused of intentionally and with premeditated malice killing Bradrick Wells on or about March 22, 2026, at 1015 Newport Church Road in Charlotte Hall, Charles County, Maryland.
• Second‑Degree Murder — also charged in the same incident.
• Assault in the First Degree (two counts) — one relating to an alleged assault on someone identified as Bradwick Webber and another relating to Bradrick Wells.
• Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony — alleged firearm use during the felony offense.

Is it wrong that I'm downright impressed that someone with such a handicap is able to become a professional at tossing beanbags into a small hole from a significant distance and is also proficient in firearms? The former is pretty amazing. The latter is definitely a cautionary tale. 

- Oof. This is shattering a lotta prog narratives. 

Houston traveler shakes an ICE officer’s hand and thanks him for his service. pic.twitter.com/kk1DyKwS2X

— Jennie Taer (@JennieSTaer) March 24, 2026

ICE agents at Houston airport hand out water to passengers and save spots in line so people can take bathroom breaks: pic.twitter.com/7ZvovHkYRq

— TheBlaze (@theblaze) March 24, 2026

Congressional Dems were shamed into voting to end the Federal government shutdown last year with virtually no concessions from Republicans. Now they may be in a similar position here. Essentially, Dems must decide to a) fund DHS without their desired reforms of ICE and Customs Border Patrol or b) have their anti-ICE sentiments rendered obsolete due to agents stepping up for traveling Americans.  

How is the Democrat party this bad at politics? 

- I was crestfallen when I heard this news. 

Longtime KQRS Minneapolis morning show personality and Radio Hall of Famer Tom Barnard announced he has Alzheimer’s disease on his family’s podcast on Friday.

Speaking from his home in West Palm Beach, the 74-year-old said he has undergone seven treatments so far and that he’s seen some improvement.

“Mine is getting better, little by little,” he said. “I can tell by a little tick that each one of them did something good. (But) it’s not overwhelming and it’s not gone.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, a Chicago-based nonprofit, it’s the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for between 60 and 80 percent of dementia cases. There is no cure.

On the podcast, Barnard’s family said they had been telling him to get checked for the past three years. His wife, Kathryn Brandt, said the idea of the treatments is to slow down or stop the disease from worsening.

Barnard also said he’s going to start speaking publicly about the disease, including an upcoming engagement at Donald Trump’s Florida club Mar-a-Lago.

Born in Long Prairie and raised in North Minneapolis, Barnard worked at several Twin Cities stations before landing at KQRS in 1986. He quickly established himself as an outspoken, politically charged voice and turned KQ’s “Morning Show” into the highest-rated radio morning show in the market. In 1997, Howard Stern’s show began airing locally, going after Barnard’s audience. But Stern was unsuccessful at dethroning Barnard and left the market a couple of years later.

Tommy B. has been part of my life's soundtrack for 40+ years. Even though he left KQ in the early '80s after co-hosting the morning show Cat & Kincaid (which my 8th grade school bus driver listened to every morning), Tom returned in 1986 to lead a new iteration of that station's morning show. The kind of ratings that show pulled in over 3 decades was the envy of all morning radio shows across America. To imagine such a titanic figure like Tom potentially being silenced by such an insidious disease is impossible for me to comprehend. 

Prayers up on behalf of Tommy's loved ones. 

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

The NARN Closer's playlist - 3/22/2026

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

I'm an old man that's so forlorn, I wanna see the city where I was born.....

Happy spring!

While outdoor weather may beckon, I'll be in the Patriot bunker for today's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour bonanza gets started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll discuss some Minnesota news, including U.S. Senate candidate Marisa Simonetti being found guilty of assault with a......tarantula???? 

Then at 2:00, our geopolitical wonk Amanda Peterson will weigh in on the latest regarding the war in Iran. I will also get her perspective on other world events, including the situation in Cuba. 

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.....

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

Dennis Prager is a national treasure

As most of you likely know, the inimitable Dennis Prager suffered a fall at his home 16 months ago, an accident which rendered him a quadriplegic. While updates were sporadic the first several months of his recovery, his ardent fans (of which I am one) were pleased to ultimately learn that his ability to think and speak did not elude him. In fact, doctors considered it a miracle that he was able to regain his voice. 

On Friday, Salem Media Group radio personality Larry Elder provided the latest update on his friend and SMG colleague. 

 

For years on his radio show, Dennis would devote one hour per week to what he dubbed "The Happiness Hour." The concept was how life is made better through the simple choice of gratitude. Despite his beloved livelihood grinding to a halt due to unfortunate circumstances, it's clear the hundreds of hours he touted happiness being a choice wasn't lip service. He's truly living it.

Thank you, Dennis Prager. For everything.

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

Quick Hits: Volume CDII

 - I wrote about a certain former candidate for Hennepin County Commissioner 21 months ago, specifically an incident where she allegedly assaulted a tenant in her home via a tarantula. In fact, her life in general seemed to be a raging garbage fire.  

Unfortunately for her, a jury of her peers just added more fuel. 

Marisa Simonetti, a political candidate who gained international recognition when she dumped a tarantula from a container at the top of her Edina staircase during a fight with her basement tenant, lost her criminal case Friday, March 13, in Hennepin County District Court.

A six-member jury found the 32-year-old guilty of misdemeanor assault, harassment and disorderly conduct after a three-day trial. Judge Jennifer Olson ordered Simonetti to maintain no contact with the victim. Her sentencing hearing is May 1.

The odd criminal case stemmed from an argument between Simonetti and a woman who rented out her basement through Airbnb in 2024. A feud between them escalated over the course of a day, bringing police officers to the home three times.

Even her renting out space in the home was done under false pretenses since a) the city of Edina doesn't allow Airbnb and b) the owner of the home said Simonetti had no authority to engage in any kind of commerce in the first place. 

As if the whole situation couldn't have been more bizarre, Simonetti ended up representing herself due to her lawyer backing out of the case. Attorney John T. Daly cited "an irretrievable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship."  Yikes!

In the end, I hope Simonetti can somehow change her life for the better, if for no other reason then to provide stability for her 8-year old son. 

- Congressional Democrats' continued refusal to fund the Dept. of Homeland Security is starting to cause real pain for Americans, just as the Federal government shutdown did last year. This latest saga resulted in one House member becoming a little too forthright. 

"It's not forcing any change," said Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.). "In the meantime, we're making people hurt. The long lines, that can't make us more popular."

That's for dang sure. 

Update on how the Democrats are polling. Harry take it away, Democrats in the minds of the American public: pic.twitter.com/6w48Xw732U

— Woke Virus Destroyer (@wokeviruscure) March 19, 2026

Ouch, babe.  

- I unequivocally love this idea. 

A St. Paul restaurant is offering a free meal for any pair of Minnesota lawmakers who are willing to dine with colleagues from the opposing party.

Sweeney's Saloon owner, Will Rolf, said he made the offer a personal to all Minnesota lawmakers through a personal email invitation.

"I think people are sick of the fighting," Rolf said. "They'd like to see people get along and get things done."

I've been saying for years that political opposites have spent way too much time talking past each other rather than to one another. Discourse among elected officials is often played out on social media rather than in person. Quite simply, the negativity spouted to someone on Twitter, Facebook, etc. would unlikely be conveyed over a meal. 

I hope more legislators seriously consider Mr. Rolf's offer. 

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

War on men

Actor Jerry O'Connell (a political leftist) shared a harrowing account of the reactions of his wife and teen daughters (also lefties) over his blunt (but appropriate) assessment of Kamala Harris's loss in the 2024 presidential election.

First off, if parents have a conflict, such grievances should never EVER be aired in front of their children. Also, kids need to have a healthy fear of (and respect for) their parents to the point where they don't dare look at them cross-eyed, much less get physical. The fact that the wife *and* kids physically accosted Jerry is so screwed up that it's no wonder Hollywood-based relationships are rarely exemplary. 

But there is a deeper issue rearing its ugly head, specifically how America has tried to "fix" men. Bridget Phetasy spelled it out in a terrific guest column in the Daily Wire.  

In 2000, Christina Hoff Sommers published “The War Against Boys,” documenting how American schools had begun treating normal male behavior as something to be diagnosed and medicated. A seven-year-old was suspended for pointing a pencil like a gun at his friend. A boy in California was punished for running during recess and nearly suspended for jumping over a bench. Schools banned tag and dodgeball. Boys were five times more likely to be expelled from preschool than girls and accounted for 70% of suspensions — not for anything dangerous, but for roughhousing, defiance, and being loud. Instead of addressing the gap, institutions doubled down, remaking classrooms around female learning styles. They criminalized the “bad guy” play that men have channeled into building civilizations since the dawn of time. Almost nobody listened to Sommers, or they mocked her. For over a decade, the project to dismantle masculinity stayed contained in academia, slowly working its way through education policy like a parasite.

Then it broke containment. By 2015, the national psychedelic trip we now refer to as “wokeism” was reaching its crescendo, and men — specifically straight, traditional men — were its favorite target. “Toxic masculinity” migrated from academic journals to Thanksgiving dinner. “Men are trash” became something people said at brunch without flinching. “Mansplaining” entered the lexicon. Gillette released an ad lecturing its own customers about the sins of manhood. No razors, just shame. Hollywood gender-swapped “Ghostbusters” and sidelined Luke Skywalker for a new female lead. In 2019, the American Psychological Association issued guidelines pathologizing “traditional masculinity” as harmful. The message from every direction was the same: Manhood was broken, and women would fix it.

Look at the vast majority of sitcoms over the past few decades. The one thing they have in common is the dad character often comes across as utterly inept, the butt of jokes that his wife and kids throw out in any given episode. 

I'll concede there have been a number of high profile, powerful men (i.e. Harvey Weinstein and Roger Ailes) who have used their positions to exploit, harass and even abuse women. But to use such extreme examples as a rationale to tamp down traditional masculinity has been a woefully misguided notion. 

Thankfully, there has been a resurgence. Back to Phetasy. 

Saving this country is going to require things that make some people uncomfortable. It is going to require men who are willing to be strong without apology, to serve without being asked, and to lead without waiting for permission. For 20 years, we told men to sit down. The men who are standing back up — not the talkers, not the grifters, but the ones who actually build and serve and sacrifice — are the ones who will matter.

But I’m not going to speak for men. Instead, I’ll let Sergeant Dan Hollaway, 82nd Airborne Infantry, share his thoughts on the resurgence of American masculinity.

“Masculinity is not a social accessory,” he told me. “It is the backbone of every civilization that has ever endured. Masculinity began as an unspoken contract with reality: I will go where it is dangerous so others don’t have to. If certain burdens are not carried, then people die. This is the natural law of masculinity, and it has never changed. For a generation, America’s masculinity was mocked, undermined, and treated as something dangerous or obsolete — and many men simply withdrew. But that retreat is ending, and as men return to strength, discipline, and responsibility, the benefits are already becoming visible. American pride is on the rise, and we have the unique opportunity to save the greatest country in the history of the world by simply being men.”

It's also no coincidence that the transgender obsession has been beaten back (though it's not dead) over this same time frame. And it's not due to bigotry, transphobia, etc. It is, in fact, science based. I mean, aren't progs always lecturing is to "follow the science?" Perhaps they oughta be taking their own advice. 

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

Joe goes

Joe Kent, who served as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, resigned his position Tuesday morning. Kent has apparently glommed on to the Tucker Carlson/Nick Fuentes/Candace Owens sector of the "right" by claiming Israel manipulated the U.S. into a war with Iran. 

As is occasionally the case, President Trump makes (to be charitable) questionable choices as to whom he taps for his inner circle. Regardless, this Kent character is gone, and that's a good thing. 

Erick Erickson breaks down everything you need to know about Kent. 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Erick Erickson (@ewerickson)

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

Snowmageddon

I'm taking the day off my weekly radio show today due to the inclement weather. 

If you missed last week's show, you're in luck as it will be replayed today, 1-3 PM Central Time. 

 

You can listen 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, 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.

Until then.....

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

Hi, Ky

In late April 2024, the Purple Daily podcast (which talks Minnesota Vikings 365 days per year) put on an NFL draft party at The Fillmore Minneapolis. The hope among Skol Nation was the Vikes could somehow get into the top 10 in the first round (they owned the #11 pick going into the night) to ensure they could draft one of the six blue chip quarterback prospects. Given the Vikings organization endured the veritable QB carousel over the previous 20 seasons, the hope was they could finally draft and develop a young quarterback to stabilize the most important position for an NFL franchise. 

Given the way the draft was projected to shake out, Michigan QB JJ McCarthy and Oregon QB Bo Nix would be available. Sure enough, the Vikings were able to trade up a slot and select the highly touted McCarthy. And the roof almost came off the Fillmore upon the announcement of the pick. 

#Skol nation has been anticipating this for more than 16 months. pic.twitter.com/sGWo7aOOAX

— Brad Carlson (@Brad_Carlson) September 10, 2025

If you would have told the euphoric Vikings faithful 23 months ago that the organization would be once again be in the midst of quarterback uncertainty after McCarthy's first two seasons, there might have been destruction of property. 

Yet, here we are. Again. 

The Minnesota Vikings agreed to a one-year contract with quarterback Kyler Murray, the team confirmed Thursday.

For Murray, the deal provides an opportunity to revitalize his career, and for the Vikings, it allows them to elevate the quarterback play that largely doomed their 2025 season.

Minnesota will pay $1.3 million of Murray's $36.8 million salary for 2026. The Arizona Cardinals will pay the remainder as part of their decision to release him Wednesday. His new deal prohibits the Vikings from using a franchise or transition tag on him next offseason, sources told ESPN, giving him a guaranteed path to free agency if he wants it.

And what about McCarthy?

Asked whether he views Murray and McCarthy in competition, or if he had even answered it for himself yet, (head coach Kevin) O'Connell added: "Unless I'm confused in any way, shape or form, I don't believe we have to name one of those currently."

Let's get rid of the wiggle room: Murray was brought in to be the starter. And since he signed only a 1-yer deal, which includes a provision not allowing the team to franchise tag him after 2026, the Vikings will be in the exact same situation next year, which is uncertainty at the quarterback position. I'm fine with McCarthy riding the bench in 2026 while working on his mechanics, etc. on the side. But if I'm being honest, I would have preferred McCarthy be anointed the starter for 2026 while brining in a reliable veteran backup. And if, worst case scenario, McCarthy flounders in '26, you have a loaded 2027 quarterback draft where the Vikings could once again take a crack at solving this never-ending issue.

Another issue which has dogged the Vikings organization is the ownership group comprised of the Wilf family being content with 8-11 wins per season with an appearance in the NFC title game every 10 years. Unfortunately, that hasn't translated to even one Super Bowl appearance, much less a championship. Heck, only once in the Wilfs' tenure has the team even made consecutive playoff appearances (2008 & 2009). While I'm not an advocate of "tanking," I would prefer letting the roster bottom out from natural causes and then rebuilding through the draft as well as savvy free agent signings. But that would entail hiring a General Manager who can actually hit on some draft picks which, unfortunately, did not happen nearly enough under GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. As such, he was fired from his job earlier this year after only four seasons. 

In the end, I believe Murray is a better option at QB in 2026 than McCarthy. But if he was brought in as a mercenary to lead the team to a Super Bowl, that would appear a stretch since the roster is not markedly better than it was last year when they amassed only 9 wins while missing out on the postseason. And since there will not be a permanent GM hired until after the draft, you're left with salary cap specialist Rob Brzezinski, coach O'Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores tasked with selecting players who, at minimum, need to be contributors right away. 

Bottom line: missing out on the postseason in '26 may well result in the Wilfs once again cleaning house. 

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

Quick Hits: Volume CDI (Minnesota stuff)

 - Progs in state legislatures across the country attempting to enact draconian gun control is nothing new. But here in Minnesota, DFLers loved to have their ego stroked by the national press corps for enacting some of the most "progressive" legislation back in 2023 and 2024. And they're looking to feel those feels again.

(T)he most chilling (gun control) legislation may be in Minnesota, where state Sen. Matt Klein has introduced SF 4290. The law not only bans semiautomatic rifles and magazines with more than ten bullets, but also allows citizens to keep prior purchased weapons only if they agree to allow the police to enter their homes to inspect storage and safety conditions.

What's ironic is the loudest supporters of this legislation are those who decried Federal agents' heavy-handed tactics in removing illegal aliens from this state earlier this year. But now, an American citizen who owns a common use firearm with a 15-round mag (i.e. a standard Glock) could potentially be turned into a felon once such legislation is enacted. 

Given that one of the largest growing demographics of gun owners are left-of-center voters in the Twin Cities metro area, do they have any idea how much their newly respected civil liberties would be restricted by the DFL legislators for whom they routinely cast votes? Time to get the word out I guess. 

- When people criticize an activity or decision while having a differing or non-existent opinion at the outset, it's called a "second guess."

But if something from the beginning is rightly seen as a horrendous decision and it's disastrous consequences come to fruition, that would adequately be described as a "first guess." Things that would fit in to such a category include: 

• Chevy Chase hosting a TV talk show.
• New Coke.
• Joe Biden's decision to run for a second presidential term.

Minnesota's Paid Family & Medical Leave Act is on par with the above list. 

From Bill Glahn 3+ years ago:  

The next billion dollar fraud. https://t.co/PBZ6gLPvD4

— Bill Glahn (@billglahn) January 11, 2023

And from a Fox 9 story on Tuesday:

Minnesota businesses are facing significant hurdles with the state's new Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, just two months after its implementation.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce shared that 80% of its 6,300 members already offered some form of paid leave before the state mandate. Business owners are now experiencing increased costs and frustration due to the new requirements.

The Chamber highlighted several concerns, including the program's complexity, slow execution, and disruption for small or seasonal businesses. There are also worries about potential misuse and long-term financial sustainability.

"Beyond just anti-fraud sentiments, employers are reporting a few concerning trends, a few examples. Providers are being pressured by patients for the full 12 weeks of leave, even if their condition does not require it. A number of respondents have shared that their employees are making more on paid leave than the wage replacement thresholds in law," said Lauryn Schothorst of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. "Employees are going on vacation or to music festivals while supposedly on leave. These anecdotes don't necessarily reveal fraud or a lack of oversight by the department. They highlight concerns with the broad eligibility and limited employer recourse elements of the law. To employers, overuse is abuse," said Lauryn Schothorst with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.

As Mr. Glahn has often been known to point out regularly when discussing leftist policy - "Decline is a choice."  

- Minnesota progs really get up in arms when they're told there's a mass exodus from the state due to overbearing and insufferable leftist policy. So naturally, they jump around like poo flinging monkeys when one piece of data validates their worldview of Minnesota being a desirous place to live. 

Minnesota saw more people move to the state than any of our neighbors. Where are the folks who keep pushing a lie that "everyone" is moving away? pic.twitter.com/0OcYGK1VLd

— Best Of Minnesota (@BestPixMN) March 11, 2026

This is a positive one-year development to be sure. However, it doesn't change the fact that the next census (slated for 2030) will determine that Minnesota may well lose one of it's eight U.S. House seats (it came down to us and New York after the 2020 count). 

That said, we ought not be measuring the quantity but rather quality of the net positive migration. John Phelan of American Experiment broke it down in late January. 

The data is seldom kind to Minnesota, so this should be welcomed. As I have written before, if we are to improve our relatively poor performance in per capita GDP growth, we need the people moving here to be more likely to be employed and/or more skilled than those people already resident here. Let us hope for further good news on this front.

This should also be a warning to big spending politicians who look to hike fees and taxes that the well is still pretty dry. Perhaps legislation incentivizing businesses to not only move here but implementing policies causing successful MN companies to desire to stay? Dare to dream. 

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

Quick Hits: Volume CD

 - James Talarico was officially chosen last week as the Democrat candidate for U.S. Senate out of Texas. And a hoax perpetrated by soon-to-be ex Late Show host Stephen Colbert played no small role in Talarico's victory over Jasmine Crockett. 

Remember when Stephen Colbert took to the airwaves to suggest that the Trump administration intervened at the 11th hour to intimidate his bosses into pulling an interview with Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico?

Both Colbert and Talarico knew days before the… pic.twitter.com/yUzwwvSd6I

— Washington Free Beacon (@FreeBeacon) March 9, 2026

This is hardly becoming of people who call themselves "progressives" by using such underhandedness to deny a black woman such a prestigious nomination. 

- Speaking of Talarico, his general election prospects are going to be touted as formidable by the prog media and "Never Trump" conservative simps. "Conservative" commentator David French falls into the latter category. 

It's one thing to tout a political candidates bona fides on policy. It's quite another to be a mouthpiece for a person's blasphemy. 

Here are a couple of excerpts from French's Sunday piece in the New York Times entitled "James Talarico is a X-Ray Christian." 

...Talarico is one of the few openly Christian politicians in the United States who acts like a Christian, and by acting like a Christian he reveals a profound contrast with so many members of the MAGA Christian movement that’s dominated American political life for 10 years.

This miserable political moment won’t end when the left takes back the government from the right or if the right continues to beat the left. It will end when our politicians — especially Christian politicians — forsake cruelty for compassion and realize that we shall know Christians in politics not by their stridency and ideology, but by their integrity and love, including their love for, as Talarico put it, “all of our neighbors.”

That’s the significance of the Talarico moment — not the old news that a Christian can be progressive, but rather that Christian politicians can actually act like Christians. Kindness still has a place in the public square, even if it doesn’t always seem that way.

Talarico is an unapologetic supporter of abortion, pumping kids with puberty blockers in the name of transgenderism and pillaging your hard earned money to fund pet progressive causes. But because he's viewed as "kind," that somehow makes him more Christ-like than Christians who support Trump? 

To be clear: I acknowledge that there are hardcore MAGA types who will distort the Word of God to fit their political worldview. But Talarico's perversion of the gospel of Jesus Christ in addition to his deceptive rhetoric in the antithesis of "kindness." 

- Uhhhh...... WOW!!!!

83 POINTS FOR BAM ADEBAYO.

THE SECOND-MOST EVER.

Wilt: 100
Bam: 83
Kobe: 81 pic.twitter.com/5AxI6j8m35

— NBA (@NBA) March 11, 2026

I remember vividly Kobe's 81-point performance and thinking how that would stay firmly embedded at # 2. Kudos to Bam on his epic night!

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

The NARN Closer's playlist - 3/8/2026

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

Sometimes, I get the feeling that I'm stranded in the wrong time........

Given it's "spring forward," I may be operating on one less hour of sleep, but today's edition of my radio show The Closer will still be in its usual 1-3 PM Central Time slot. 

In the first hour, we'll discuss the latest in the conflict in Iran, and how progs are miserable when it appears America is having success. Here in Minnesota, Dems try desperately to turn attention away from the rampant fraud. 

At 2:00, political wonk (and adviser for Sen. John Cornyn's reelection campaign) Matt Mackowiak will join the broadcast to discuss Texas politics, the latest regarding the 2026 midterms, etc. 

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.....

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

Quick Hits: Volume CCCXCIX

 - It was long past due, but this is the correct move. 

Most people had seen enough, and now President Trump has, too.

On Thursday, Trump announced that he had decided to oust Kristi Noem as secretary of homeland security and was nominating Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma to replace her. Hours earlier, our own Audrey Fahlberg was the first to report Trump was contemplating this change.

The former South Dakota governor was never well suited to the job, and neither was her partner in running the department, the loose-cannon former Trump consultant Corey Lewandowski. But Trump picked her and, as a practical matter, the two of them anyway.

Perhaps the most unforgivable aspect of Noem's tenure? Turning a popular issue (i.e. deportation of illegal immigrants) into a deeply loathed one. Border czar Tom Homan had the more politically prudent approach of deporting the "worst of the worst" whereas Noem, Lewandowski et al were willing to raid car washes and Home Depot parking lots. But the final straw was Noem's dismal showing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. In that testimony, Noem insisted the President was aware of a $200+ million DHS ad campaign, an allegation that left Trump furious. 

While Noem's dismissal is something progs have been calling for, I'm certain there is some level of disappointment among them that they can no longer use her presence as a "bloody shirt." 

- If you wanna know why there's a perception that Minnesota Dems don't seem overly concerned about the billions of dollars of fraud in the state, perhaps this might be a clue. 

... What?

Rep Pinto (D-St. Paul): "Yesterday, there was a presentation from a group seeking to change how we address organized retail theft... It would have been good to make sure that they would study the benefit of shoplifting and of retail theft because perhaps people are… pic.twitter.com/2NhXrY1Pre

— MN House GOP Rapid Response (@MNHRCWarRoom) March 5, 2026

I'm sure the small business owners in this state who are constantly being gouged by destructive prog policies appreciate that their businesses being further pillaged may be of "benefit" to the pillagers. 

- Yes, President Trump's approval rating barely more than a year into his second term is quite low. And if you hear the prog media spin it, he's the most unpopular second term POTUS perhaps in the history of the republic. 

But the numbers don't quite bear that, specifically when looking at the most recent two terms presidents. 

 

President Trump, Obama, Bush Approval on March 5, Second Year, Second Term

🔴Trump: 43.3%
🔵Obama: 42.5%
🔴Bush: 38.7%

RealClearPolitics Polling Average pic.twitter.com/8hWSfUavBZ

— RealClearPolling (@RCPolling) March 5, 2026

To be clear, this isn't something Trump fans should be taking a victory lap over. Both Bush and Obama were repudiated in the midterm elections within their respective second terms as the opposing political party garnered a net gain of double digits House seats in both cycles (+31 for Dems in 2006, +13 for Republicans in 2014). Given the GOP has a razor thin majority in House currently, attaining a majority doesn't appear to be too high a bar for Dems to clear in November. 

The one saving grace for Trump? His party has a better chance to retain its Senate majority, unlike his predecessors. 

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

You've heard of schadenfreude.....

As some of you may know, I stan for conservative commentator Erick Erickson. And my admiration of him only grew this week when he coined a brand new term: Trumpenfreude. 

It's going to only get worse for the likes of Bill Kristol, Max Boot and Jen Rubin if indeed the administration's objectives are accomplished within their stated one month goal. That is because it is overwhelmingly popular with Americans. 

CBS POLL: Approve/Disapprove of Military action against Iran if think conflict would last...

🟢 Days/Weeks: 76-24 (+52)
🟤 Months: 46-54 (-8)
🔴 Years: 13-87 (-74)

YouGov | 3/2-3 | 1,399 A pic.twitter.com/BYEnUIGkS5

— InteractivePolls (@IAPolls2022) March 3, 2026

All involved will be in my fervent prayers.

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

The NARN Closer's playlist - 3/1/2026

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

Show me what it's like to be the last one standing......

Welp....I had my show all planned out by Thursday evening, only to have to alter it upon a certain epic event occurring Saturday. Regardless, I'll be able to adapt as my radio show The Closer will air today, 1-3 PM Central Time. 

Right at 1:00, geopolitical wonk Amanda Peterson will join the broadcast to discuss Operation Epic Fury in Iran. With the strike having killed the Ayatollah Khamenei, what will be the fallout going forward? 

Then at 2:00, Sue Liebel of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America will join us via phone to weigh in on the dangers of the "abortion pill" mifepristone and how the FDA is not releasing a study showing its ill effects. 

In non-guest segments, I'll definitely want to talk about prog media looking to undermine the U.S. Men's Olympic hockey team's accomplishments simply because they accepted President Trump's invitation to the White House. 

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.....

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

Answered prayers

I'll have a lot more to say about the U.S./Israeli military operations in Iran, one which eliminated Ayatollah Khamenei. 

For my money, this video footage from three weeks ago is what's on my mind at this moment. 

Iranian Christians singing Waymaker in Farsi, crying out to God for Iran pic.twitter.com/MOn2PK0OEp

— Jimmy (@v_howerton) February 7, 2026

This was in the aftermath of thousands of protesting Iranian citizens having been slaughtered by the regime. It would appear God heard the pleas of their fellow countrymen.

----------------------------------- 

Prog media just can't help themselves

It's been nearly a week since the USA Men's hockey team won the Olympic gold medal, but the prog media chooses to focus on their acceptance of well wishes from President Donald Trump as well as players laughing at what the press believed was a misogynist joke. 

This entire week the media and leftist pundits have been rushing to their podcast microphones, Substack pages, etc. to discuss the "fallout" from this "scandal." Apparently these folks see themselves as some sort of moral arbiters on what is a scandal and thus their breathless coverage of it is what constitutes a fallout. 

Thankfully, as Charles C.W. Cooke points out, not even the media can steal the unadulterated joy of U.S. citizens celebrating the epic of achievement of their fellow Americans. 

 

If you were to stop 100 people on the street at random and ask them about the USA’s victory on Sunday, how many do you think would fixate on the supposed jingoism of the team, or on President Trump’s phone call and White House invitation, or on Kash bloody Patel? Two? If that? Meanwhile, the other 98 would be busy talking about where they were when it happened, reflecting on whether they thought we were going to pull it out, and meditating upon that glorious moment — played over and over and over in the days since — when Jack Hughes smashed the puck into the back of the goal, and Kenny Albert shouted “Jack Hughes wins it, the golden goal for the United States, for the first time since the 1980 miracle!,” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Free Bird started up, and the boys in the band sat drinking beers during the press conference and talking about the thing that had everyone except the pencil pushers watching in the first place: hockey.

There were five members of the men's team who play for NHL squads based in Canada. You have some suggesting that Canadian citizens do what so many Americans refuse to do, which is essentially ostracize those players for choosing to appear with the eeeeeeeevil Trump. Once again, Charlie Cooke nails it. 

Ultimately, being an American involves accepting that the people who oppose you on some extremely important things are also Americans, and agreeing to coexist with them nevertheless. The progressive hockey fans who are devastated that their favorite players were happy to go to the White House are simply refusing to do that. That is their right, but there is no reason for anyone else to indulge their solipsism.

And I also adamantly refuse to let any individual, even someone as prominent as a sitting POTUS, have so much control over my mindset that I lose all semblance of rational thought. 

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

Quick Hits: Volume CCCXCVIII

- The Public Safety Committee presented two gun control bills on Tuesday. And of course, Gov. Tim Walz, DFL legislators and other gun grabbers all attempted to stack the deck with emotional appeals since basic facts are not on their side. 

Undeterred, Amy Swearer brought the cold, hard (and indisputable) facts. 

And while gun grabbers have anointed themselves a compassionate and caring lot while labeling law-abiding gun owners as ghouls who care more about firearms than children, there was one anti-gun individual in particular who put forth a shameful display. 

Not exactly a great ambassador for Catholicism, eh? 

In the end, both bills failed to advance in committee, but the fight is not over. The speculation is Dems will wait until there is a public safety bill on the House floor and then attempt to amend the two gun control bills into that legislation. 

Definitely follow the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus to stay up on all the happenings. 

- Former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse is a national treasure. Having been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer late last year, he's not long for this world. However, he has tremendous peace in where he'll spend eternity. 

This past Sunday was his 54th birthday. And since you attract what you are, Sasse likely has some jovial, fun-loving friends. And that was evidenced by the inscription on his birthday cake. 

(I have the best friends….) pic.twitter.com/usr0GFnbBZ

— Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) February 22, 2026

Last birthday on Earth? Quite likely. But leaving behind a legacy of unabashed faith, good cheer and humor? Most definitely.  

- Because the USA men's hockey team graciously accepted President Donald Trump's invitation to the White House as well as Tuesday's State of the Union address, they've been pilloried by prog sports media. 

Perhaps the most egregious offender is former Washington Post sports gal Sally Jenkins. 

epic meltdown by The Atlantic staff writer over USA Men’s Hockey pic.twitter.com/4wiZghrrSx

— Jerry Dunleavy IV 🇺🇸 (@JerryDunleavy) February 24, 2026

As we've witnessed regularly, progs dealing in emotion over facts rarely ends well for them.  

Sally, do the profit/loss statement for the leagues next please. Then add the context of comparing local ratings to national ratings. Then add attendance comparisons. Then add which league is fully subsidized by a parent organization. You know, journalism stuff https://t.co/DrEhIEekPa

— John Kincade (@JohnKincade) February 24, 2026

Personally, this is where I stand. 

If you can look at these two photos and only celebrate one of them, politics has broken your brain. pic.twitter.com/PokFjWujEc

— Josh Wood (@J_K_Wood) February 23, 2026

I am extremely proud of any American athlete who represents the U.S.A. well, regardless if they align with my worldview. Sorry progs, but you ain't stealing my joy.  

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

The NARN Closer's playlist - 2/22/2026

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

So let's go there, let's make our escape............

A lot to get to in today's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour broadcast gets started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll weigh in on the good, bad and ugly of the first week of the 2026 Minnesota Legislative session. 

At 2:00, National Taxpayers Union Executive VP Joe Bishop-Henchman will join us via phone to discuss the U.S. Supreme Court decision to end tariffs imposed unilaterally by President Donald Trump. 

And finally, TV talk show host Stephen Colbert tries desperately to stay relevant over the final few months of CBS's The Late Show. 

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.....

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

Redeem the time

I'm going to be 57 years old in May. If my lineage is any indication, I'm in the middle to late third quarter of my life. 

Former Nebraska U.S. Senator Ben Sasse will be 54 years old on Sunday. It's likely to be his final birthday on Earth given he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year. However, I'm drawing inspiration from him when he discusses his determination to live life to the fullest in the short amount of time he has remaining. 

This 2-1/2 minute excerpt of Sasse's hour long interview with Peter Robinson is incredibly uplifting. 

“Redeem the time”

This whole @BenSasse interview is well worth the time, but this 2 minutes about taking stock of what matters most is powerful. https://t.co/MkFOt0KUZO pic.twitter.com/SkJPuFUECk

— Nathan Brand (@nathanbrand) February 19, 2026

Only someone redeemed by the blood of Jesus can convey that level of peace and tranquility in the face of such a grim diagnosis. 

I look forward to listening to the entire discussion. 

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

Quick Hits: Volume CCCXCVII

 - Stephen Colbert's Hollywood career has come full circle. From somewhat entertaining satirist to late night network TV talk show host to now a despicable (and lying) political hack. 

Colbert saw last fall how the Federal Communications Commission's indirect actions against fellow late night host Jimmy Kimmel turned out to be a ratings boon upon Kimmel's return to the airwaves. As such, Steve-O attempted to play up such an angle in an attempt to gin up interest in his program over the short time he has remaining. 

Colbert is a fundraiser for Democrat candidates.

Colbert's sister is a Democrat politician.

Colbert is plugged in with the highest levels of the Democrat party.

What's likely going on here is that Dem bosses needed something to get Talarico past Crockett in the primary and… pic.twitter.com/5Tj1DTmwvh

— 🐺 (@LeighWolf) February 17, 2026

Colbert contended that the FCC cracked down on his hosting U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico (D-TX). The rationale being that the Trump administration was scared that a "Christian" Democrat could actually turn Texas blue, thus they employed their authoritarian tactics to prevent his guest appearance from airing on broadcast TV. 

The truth? 

"THE LATE SHOW was not prohibited by CBS from broadcasting the interview with Rep. James Talarico. The show was provided legal guidance that the broadcast could trigger the FCC equal-time rule for two other candidates, including Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and presented options for how the equal time for other candidates could be fulfilled. THE LATE SHOW decided to present the interview through its YouTube channel with on-air promotion on the broadcast rather than potentially providing the equal-time options."

But hey, if we're going to employ leftist tactics, we should come out and say that Colbert is a misogynist and racist for attempting to elevate Talarico over Ms. Crockett anyways. Their rules. 

- Now that Amy Klobuchar is the presumed Democrat nominee for Minnesota governor, arguably the nation's leading polling analysts put forth a hard truth. 

Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s campaign for Minnesota governor puts an already longshot race out of play for Republicans. This race moves from Likely D to Solid D. #MNgov

Read more from @MattKleinOnline:https://t.co/wfXvPzUJWZ

— Cook Political Report (@CookPolitical) February 17, 2026

This also severely hampers Minnesota Republicans' ability to seize control of the House (currently split at 67-67) and Senate (Dems have a 34-33 advantage), given Klobuchar's presence at the top of the ticket will be a huge advantage for DFL legislative candidates. 

At this point, with the gubernatorial race seemingly out of reach, I would be perfectly OK for the GOP to shift its sole focus on trying to take control of at least one if not both chambers of the Legislature. With how badly a DFL trifecta crippled this state with the legislation signed into law in 2023 and 2024, the same makeup of state government in 2027 and 2028 would effectively turn us into a cold California. 

- Speaking of the Legislature, Tuesday marked the first day of the 2026 session. And for one day, partisanship could be put aside for this undeniably inspirational moment. 

Fear not, we still have about 3 solid months to indulge in the obligatory sniping and grandstanding that occurs regularly in today's political climate. But regardless of your party affiliation, it's hard not to root for Sen. Hoffman and his family after enduring all they have over the past eight months. 

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